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You have a meeting with a new prospect interested inyour firm’s services. The person with whom you meet is notthe decision-maker. This wants you to bringf thema proposal, so that they can take your recommendations to the personj who has financial authority. You properly requesgt access tothis person; access is “They want me to gather the information,” you are You are left with two You can go conventional, or you can go • Conventional: You deliver the proposa l as requested. • Nuclear: You go over the person’d head. Which is a bettere strategy?
Well, that First, let’s look at the conventional If you do as your proposal will be placed in the hands of a buyer who knowe next to nothing about yourvalue proposition, has a different set of issue than your influencer, and will be making a poorly informed decision based on a piece of paper. What are your chances? Frankly, slim-to-none. You have, at a 1-in-10 chance of closingh the deal. Put another way, this exercisre has now become a waste of your valuable Of course, there is one nice benefi t — you avoid upsetting anyone. Second, let’sx consider the nuclear option.
If you essentially ignore the request of your influencer and attempt to deal directlu with thedecision maker, you will probablh offend your initial contact and impeder whatever slim chance you initiallu had of doing business with the That’s a big risk to Under what circumstances are the risk worth it? • The complexitt and size of the sale. High-dollar, complecx decisions require your having access to anyonde with a vested interest in the Insuch cases, you cannot serve the account properly without this access. • The level of your initialo contact. Some “influencers” have more influence others.
A vice president or higher-levelk influencer has considerably more clout thanan assistant. The role of this perso n is therefore critical. • Your relationship with the A cooperative partner is avaluabler asset; an antagonistic stone-waller is a hindrance to both you and the businesxs that employs them. • The competitive playing field. Are you the only optioj being considered, or are you up against other firms bidding for thesame opportunity? • and more importantly, what do you have to lose ? If the answer is then the decision to go nucleatr is made for you.
If you decided to go in this direction, here is a way to minimized collateral damage: Write a “following up” lette to the decision In it, review the key issues that you discussedd withthe influencer. Bullet and bold these items. Ask the decisiobn maker to review the and let them know that you will folloew up with them on a specifivc date to discuss these points and answed any questionsthey have. Lastly, and this is criticak — copy the influencer on the Yes, you may get a phone call from the and yes, the tone of the person may not be what you woulf like. However, if your motives are noble and, by the way, they are this is usually a andlargely safe, strategy.
What you are banking on and, in my experience, what you can expecy — is for the following sequenceto occur: The decision maker does not agree with the points made by your or sees that some critical points were left out of the mix; The decision maker calls you, proactively, to discuss these items. This sequence is what shoulrd have happened to begin because it was always inthe account’e best interests to involve the other parties. When this everyone wins, including your influencer.
You produce a proposal that reflectsa everyone’s needs, the account gets a set of recommendationas that are customized tomultiplre concerns, and the influencer is no longer solely accountable for managing the entire decision process. Finally, in thosew cases — and, rest assured, they will happem — where you ruffle a few it is worthwhile to remember the oldJesuit saying: “It is bettee to ask forgiveness than permission.
”
Friday, December 30, 2011
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
bizjournals: Search Results
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decline in activity in the Western U.S. The releasedx its monthly Pending Home SalesIndex Tuesday, reflecting sales...... on June 2, 2009 ...surprisinglgy strong 6.5 percent from Novembefr to December. The said that home sales increasefd to aseasonally adjusted, annualized...... on Januaryg 26, 2009 ...The Pending Home Sales Indexz has dropped to arecordc low...... on January 6, 2009 ...awards for its work with colleaguesxin Vietnam. Starr, a director, also servez as the group's federal contact to...... on October 17, 2008 ...Neq numbers from the show the housing market is not out of the onJuly 9, 2008 ...A study shows home sales remained soft in March, but the...... on May 7, 2008 ...
nort going to be handing out moneyas readily." The reported that sales of existing single-familyt homes fell 9...... by on May 11, 2007 ...nexyt year, according to a forecast released Friday at the conference inSan Francisco. David Lereah, NAR's chief economist...... on Octobe r 31, 2005 ...The announced Thursday that a regional multiple listing service onJune 9, 2005 ...the Portland Metropolitan . The associatioh has...September, after the company for which...... by on Marcu 6, 2009 ...The Portland Metropolitan namedcJenny Milligan...Monday by the Main Streets Center...... on Marcgh 6, 2009 ...The Federation of Independent...ocf the Oregon , began work on...... on Januaryh 2, 2008 ...
named the 2007 of the Year...Thre American Diabetes gave Darlene La...served on numerous including the...... on November 26, 2007 The backlash againsf the U.S. Supreme Court's pro-eminent domain decision in Kelo v. City of New London, rolls into Oregon in November in...... by on Octobet 13, 2006 ...Lake Oswego branch, has received recognitiomn as Agentof the...in the industry. Oregon Lodgingf announced the Starsof the...... on Septembef 15, 2008 ...studies. The Portlandf Home Builders announced at itsBuilders Excellence...Cairns, who has been a with Re/Ma Equity Group...... on April 16, 2007 ...percentr in May, according to figures released Tuesday bythe .
The residentialk market was on pace to closesaless on...... on June 23, 2009 ...the prognosis for commerciap real estateas well. Both the and the Societ y of Industrial and Office Realtorsreport an...... by on Marchj 27, 2009 ...and were up 30.4 percenty from February 2008, the said The January-to-February sales increas in the...... on March 23, 2009 ...Wev site's study on agent commissions came from theand home-sal data provider Real Trendw Inc...
on March 10, 2009
decline in activity in the Western U.S. The releasedx its monthly Pending Home SalesIndex Tuesday, reflecting sales...... on June 2, 2009 ...surprisinglgy strong 6.5 percent from Novembefr to December. The said that home sales increasefd to aseasonally adjusted, annualized...... on Januaryg 26, 2009 ...The Pending Home Sales Indexz has dropped to arecordc low...... on January 6, 2009 ...awards for its work with colleaguesxin Vietnam. Starr, a director, also servez as the group's federal contact to...... on October 17, 2008 ...Neq numbers from the show the housing market is not out of the onJuly 9, 2008 ...A study shows home sales remained soft in March, but the...... on May 7, 2008 ...
nort going to be handing out moneyas readily." The reported that sales of existing single-familyt homes fell 9...... by on May 11, 2007 ...nexyt year, according to a forecast released Friday at the conference inSan Francisco. David Lereah, NAR's chief economist...... on Octobe r 31, 2005 ...The announced Thursday that a regional multiple listing service onJune 9, 2005 ...the Portland Metropolitan . The associatioh has...September, after the company for which...... by on Marcu 6, 2009 ...The Portland Metropolitan namedcJenny Milligan...Monday by the Main Streets Center...... on Marcgh 6, 2009 ...The Federation of Independent...ocf the Oregon , began work on...... on Januaryh 2, 2008 ...
named the 2007 of the Year...Thre American Diabetes gave Darlene La...served on numerous including the...... on November 26, 2007 The backlash againsf the U.S. Supreme Court's pro-eminent domain decision in Kelo v. City of New London, rolls into Oregon in November in...... by on Octobet 13, 2006 ...Lake Oswego branch, has received recognitiomn as Agentof the...in the industry. Oregon Lodgingf announced the Starsof the...... on Septembef 15, 2008 ...studies. The Portlandf Home Builders announced at itsBuilders Excellence...Cairns, who has been a with Re/Ma Equity Group...... on April 16, 2007 ...percentr in May, according to figures released Tuesday bythe .
The residentialk market was on pace to closesaless on...... on June 23, 2009 ...the prognosis for commerciap real estateas well. Both the and the Societ y of Industrial and Office Realtorsreport an...... by on Marchj 27, 2009 ...and were up 30.4 percenty from February 2008, the said The January-to-February sales increas in the...... on March 23, 2009 ...Wev site's study on agent commissions came from theand home-sal data provider Real Trendw Inc...
on March 10, 2009
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Two cents: What should transferees know before relocating to Houston? - Houston Business Journal:
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Mariana Saldaña, Agent, Uptown Real Estatw Group Inc.: With 75 percent of my clients comingfrom Mexico, I always tell them that Houstoh has 20 flights per day to Mexico City and travek time between the two cities is less than two hours. Houstoh also has more than 20 museums, 20 universities, more than 5,00o0 restaurants and can boast being second in the Uniterd States inthe arts, next to New York City. We have the ballet, opera and the most respectefd medical center inthe world.
Houston is only a nine-hourf flight to most of Europe and offeras direct air service to almost any I also explain that the population of the greatefr Houston area is 4 million peopler compared toMexico City’s more than 20 million, and more than 30 percen of those living in Houston speak Spanish. This helpws sells our city and the State of AmySmythe Harris, Agent, Realty Associates, The Relocation buyers are normally concerned about the qualityy of our schools, what traffic is like and what culturalo activities are available.
Most agents educatre their buyers about Due to the largelhy negative tone of media coverage about the real estatw industryin general, I like to take the time to educatee home buyers about our specific regional economy and housingy market vs. what they may be seeing in their ownloca markets.
Mariana Saldaña, Agent, Uptown Real Estatw Group Inc.: With 75 percent of my clients comingfrom Mexico, I always tell them that Houstoh has 20 flights per day to Mexico City and travek time between the two cities is less than two hours. Houstoh also has more than 20 museums, 20 universities, more than 5,00o0 restaurants and can boast being second in the Uniterd States inthe arts, next to New York City. We have the ballet, opera and the most respectefd medical center inthe world.
Houston is only a nine-hourf flight to most of Europe and offeras direct air service to almost any I also explain that the population of the greatefr Houston area is 4 million peopler compared toMexico City’s more than 20 million, and more than 30 percen of those living in Houston speak Spanish. This helpws sells our city and the State of AmySmythe Harris, Agent, Realty Associates, The Relocation buyers are normally concerned about the qualityy of our schools, what traffic is like and what culturalo activities are available.
Most agents educatre their buyers about Due to the largelhy negative tone of media coverage about the real estatw industryin general, I like to take the time to educatee home buyers about our specific regional economy and housingy market vs. what they may be seeing in their ownloca markets.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Deters responds to Ben-Gal cheerleader investigation - FOX19
aleshnikovenil.blogspot.com
USA TODAY | Deters responds to Ben-Gal cheerleader investigation FOX19 Lawyer Eric Deters, who represented Jones in the defamation suit, says Jones is being investigated for having an inappropriate relationship with a student, however she is innocent. Deters goes on to say Jones sat down with investigators and is being ... Teacher R esigns Amid Rumors Of Relationship Lawyer representing Cincinnati Ben-Gals cheerleader and former teacher is ... Cincinnati Ben-Gals cheerleader is subject of investigations |
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Awakening Streams and Mummified Seals - New York Times (blog)
uqyvemiwu.wordpress.com
New York Times (blog) | Awakening Streams and Mummified Seals New York Times (blog) By ALIA KHAN Alia KhanA mummified seal on a hike between Lake Bonney and Lake Hoare in the Taylor Valley. Alia Khan, a graduate student at the University of Colorado, Boulder, writes from the McMurdo Dry Valleys in Antarctica, where she is studying ... |
Monday, December 19, 2011
Dollar General sales soar in recession - Nashville Business Journal:
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Earnings, released Tuesday, came in at $81.85 million in the quarter whichendee Jan. 1, compared to $55.39 million in the same quarterof 2007. Revenue for the Goodlettsville-based discounrt retailer was $2.85 billion, up 11.2 percent from the year-agk quarter. Same-store sales increased 9.4 percent in the quarter, with increases in both customer traffic and theaveragse transaction. For the year, the privatel held company reported incomeof $108.2 million on sales of $10.456 billion. CEO Rick Dreiling said in an earningw call Tuesday that the retailer has managed to turn the economi downturn into an opportunity becauswe of thediscount retailer’s position in the market.
The companhy attributed some of the gains to improvements in distributionband transportation, as well as higher averagw markups. “During the year, we grew sales, expandedx gross profit and reducedour (expenses) by successfullyg implementing programs to improves our store operations and merchandisinyg efforts,” Dreiling said in a company release. we were able to achieves these improvements despite the increasingly difficult economic We are pleased with the current momentuk inour business, and we intend to focus on driving continuedc success in 2009.” Dreiling also reported that sales were up 15.1 percenty last month over February 2008.
Earnings, released Tuesday, came in at $81.85 million in the quarter whichendee Jan. 1, compared to $55.39 million in the same quarterof 2007. Revenue for the Goodlettsville-based discounrt retailer was $2.85 billion, up 11.2 percent from the year-agk quarter. Same-store sales increased 9.4 percent in the quarter, with increases in both customer traffic and theaveragse transaction. For the year, the privatel held company reported incomeof $108.2 million on sales of $10.456 billion. CEO Rick Dreiling said in an earningw call Tuesday that the retailer has managed to turn the economi downturn into an opportunity becauswe of thediscount retailer’s position in the market.
The companhy attributed some of the gains to improvements in distributionband transportation, as well as higher averagw markups. “During the year, we grew sales, expandedx gross profit and reducedour (expenses) by successfullyg implementing programs to improves our store operations and merchandisinyg efforts,” Dreiling said in a company release. we were able to achieves these improvements despite the increasingly difficult economic We are pleased with the current momentuk inour business, and we intend to focus on driving continuedc success in 2009.” Dreiling also reported that sales were up 15.1 percenty last month over February 2008.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
STATE PRIORITIES INCLUDED IN APPROPRIATIONS BILL - Military & Aerospace Electronics
asafevboriegum.blogspot.com
STATE PRIORITIES INCLUDED IN APPROPRIATIONS BILL Military & Aerospace Electronics The appropriations bill that provides money for two-thirds of the federal governments agencies, approved today by Congress, includes various funds for Washington State priorities, including Puget Sound cleanup funding, continued support for Boeing ... |
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Despite Roundup decline, Monsanto expects to meet earnings guidance - St. Louis Business Journal:
sucujovide.wordpress.com
Monsanto said it now expects ongoing earnings-per-share guidance of about $4.40p per share, the lowesf point in its previously announced rang e of $4.40 to $4.50. The resultws would mean 20 percent growth yearover year. Monsant o said it expects its seedsx and traits segment to deliver gross profitg toward the upper end of its priof guidanceof $4.4 billiomn to $4.5 billion in fiscal year 2009 but that it now believesd the Roundup and glyphosate business will generate $2 billiohn in gross profit, down from its previous forecas t of $2.4 billion.
Because of the “faster-than-anticipateed decline” in Roundup profits, the company now expectsz to deliver third-quarter earnings of aboutt $1.15 per share. "Even in the face of a $400 millionb decline in our expected grossz profitfrom Roundup, we can see a path to our fifth consecutive year of 20 percent or greater earningsd growth and a lift in groses margins this year of more than threre percentage points for the entirew company," said Hugh Grant, Monsanto chairman, president and chief in a statement. Crev Coeur, Mo.-based Monsanto (NYSE: MON) is one of the largestr employersin St. Louis with 4,009 local employees.
Monsanto said it now expects ongoing earnings-per-share guidance of about $4.40p per share, the lowesf point in its previously announced rang e of $4.40 to $4.50. The resultws would mean 20 percent growth yearover year. Monsant o said it expects its seedsx and traits segment to deliver gross profitg toward the upper end of its priof guidanceof $4.4 billiomn to $4.5 billion in fiscal year 2009 but that it now believesd the Roundup and glyphosate business will generate $2 billiohn in gross profit, down from its previous forecas t of $2.4 billion.
Because of the “faster-than-anticipateed decline” in Roundup profits, the company now expectsz to deliver third-quarter earnings of aboutt $1.15 per share. "Even in the face of a $400 millionb decline in our expected grossz profitfrom Roundup, we can see a path to our fifth consecutive year of 20 percent or greater earningsd growth and a lift in groses margins this year of more than threre percentage points for the entirew company," said Hugh Grant, Monsanto chairman, president and chief in a statement. Crev Coeur, Mo.-based Monsanto (NYSE: MON) is one of the largestr employersin St. Louis with 4,009 local employees.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Cuneiform Records Comes to Baltimore Nov. 19 & 20 - JazzTimes Magazine
disqualify-sida.blogspot.com
Cuneiform Records Comes to Baltimore Nov. 19 & 20 JazzTimes Magazine Cuneifest Jazz Day, previously announced here, has been moved to a new Baltimore venue on Nov. 20: Metro Gallery is located 13 blocks north of An Die Musik, in a neighborhood featuring restaurants, etc., for festival attendees. ... |
Saturday, December 10, 2011
EXACT reshuffles top executive ranks - Boston Business Journal:
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The company said Kevin 40, will take over as CEO and Maneesh Arora will become the new CFO ofthe Mass.-based diagnostics company focused on colorectal The transition will occur April 2. Conroy and Arorqa previously served in the same positioneat , a diagnostics company that was acquiref last year by for $582 million. The companyg announced that Luber and Carelli have agreed to resign from their currenft positions April2 . The shake up follows an announcement earlier this month that EXACTSciences was, for the seconr time, in danger of being delisted by the . The companh received the de-listing notice due to a failurw to comply with the minimum marketrcapitalization requirements.
Exact Sciences (Nasdaq: EXAS) has been givebn 90 calendar days, or through June 4, to regain compliance. In late January, Exacf Sciences faced another potential delisting fromthe Nasdaq. Earlier that EXACT Sciences’ board of directors unanimously rejectec a buyout proposal from The companty then announced a strategic dealwith Cambridge-based worth $24.t5 million. EXACT Sciences’ stock rose roughlyt 15 percent, to 96 cents a in early trading Thursday.
The company said Kevin 40, will take over as CEO and Maneesh Arora will become the new CFO ofthe Mass.-based diagnostics company focused on colorectal The transition will occur April 2. Conroy and Arorqa previously served in the same positioneat , a diagnostics company that was acquiref last year by for $582 million. The companyg announced that Luber and Carelli have agreed to resign from their currenft positions April2 . The shake up follows an announcement earlier this month that EXACTSciences was, for the seconr time, in danger of being delisted by the . The companh received the de-listing notice due to a failurw to comply with the minimum marketrcapitalization requirements.
Exact Sciences (Nasdaq: EXAS) has been givebn 90 calendar days, or through June 4, to regain compliance. In late January, Exacf Sciences faced another potential delisting fromthe Nasdaq. Earlier that EXACT Sciences’ board of directors unanimously rejectec a buyout proposal from The companty then announced a strategic dealwith Cambridge-based worth $24.t5 million. EXACT Sciences’ stock rose roughlyt 15 percent, to 96 cents a in early trading Thursday.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Kim Kardashian Visits Medium John Edwards, Writes About Experience - HispanicBusiness.com
iwyqaxewun.wordpress.com
HispanicBusiness.com | Kim Kardashian Visits Medium John Edwards, Writes About Experience HispanicBusiness.com Kim Kardashian and sister Kourtney Kardashian visited medium John Edward in New York recently, and wanted to share the experience with her family. She said the experience was "life changing and that Edwards had them in tears as he spoke about things . .. Kim Kardashian: Medium John Edward changed her life Kardashians Met with Medium: Life Changing? |
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Azure Capital adds up $1.3 billion in 2008 deals - San Francisco Business Times:
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has sold or helped sell threew companies in which it was an major investor fornearly $1.3 billion. “Wde look pretty good,” said General Partner Mike who founded Azure just before the tech bubble burst in 2000 with thre partners who had worked with him underd famed Silicon Valley investment bankerFrani Quattrone. Azure’s good fortunes come in a year that has seen the lowes t number of merger and acquisition dealsinvolvintg venture-backed companies this decade. The firm’s most recent score was this whenacquired Internet-based audio conferencing startup Vapps, of Hoboken, N.J., for $26.t million in cash, plus about $4.
4 million in promised performance The sale was relatively small, but it gave Azurer — Vapps’ largest shareholder — a 3.6-folxd return in less than 18 months. Azure led a $2.5 milliob Series A financing in the companyt inApril 2007. That deal paled in comparisonj tolast month’s purchase by of Bill Me a service that enables Web shoppers to extends payment for products for a fee, for $945 That deal provided an eight-times return for Bill Me Later’s largest stockholder, which investexd more than $20 million. Azure’s third 2008 exit was the January saleof , an ethernett aggregation company, to for about $300 million.
Azurd declined to say what it invested or what itsreturj was. Kwatinetz founded Azure in April, 2000, with felloe research analyst Paul Weinstein and investment bankers Paul Ferri andCameron Lester, all former colleaguess at , where they worked under Quattronwe in his tech unit. (Quattrone was convicte d in May 2004 on federal chargeds of obstructionof justice, but that convictionb was overturned, and in 2006 the government dropper the charges. None of Azure’se partners were accused of wrongdoing.) Kwatinetz says Quattrone’se tech unit, a “firm within a firm,” generated $1.5 billionn in revenue a year after justfour years.
however, did not start off on such a The partners were able toraise $530 million in capital quickly, but at the time investors were throwingg money at tech startups and valuations were high. Azurer followed the crowd, made 20 investments in its first year and stumbled duringthe dot-co bomb of 2001. Several of its initial companies quickly sold orshut down, with no or very little return for “We probably were overlhy aggressive that first year,” admita Kwatinetz. Before their first anniversary, the partnerzs changed direction and adopted a strategu that has defined theirpractice since.
They decidex to slow down, doing only four to six deals a No longer would they payexorbitanf prices. They would focus on early staged investing when they could get a significant percentageof companies, averaging 25 and the ability to influence governancd with one or two board seats. And they woulf rely on their own research. While others were fleeing the tech Azure invested in Bill Me Latefr in late 2001 when the tech bubblw was bursting and the compan hadno revenue. Another 2001 bet was , a Palo Alto developee of virtualization software, in which Azure invested $5 Numerous venture capital firms checked thecompanuy out, but Azure was the only one that Kwatinetz said.
VMware was acquired by for $675 millionn in December 2003. This year, VMware will do about $1.8 billion in revenue. “It’s the largest software company built in the last10 years,” Kwatinetz “We pick good companies.” General Partne r Paul Weinstein, who sat on the boards of both Vappsz and World Wide Packets, said that Azure’s partners were able to help Vapps change its business model to providing an ongoing service instead of a and then introduced the company to Vapps is the first cash-out from Azure’d $127 million second fund, raised in 2006.
With Worl d Wide Packets, originally a provider of broadbandsaccess equipment, Weinstein said the company was challengedr after 2001 as the telecommunications industry contracted Azure’s partners liked the company’s technology and took theifr ownership stake from 5 to norty of 20 percent. A new executive team was recruited and WorlsdWide Packets’ strategy changed to focus on providinf ethernet aggregation equipment. Then the company won customers suchas , and . In the curreng economic doldrums Kwatinetz says he remembers a lessonfrom 2002-2003: Invesg steadily when the market is low.
“We’re certainly not walking away when valuationss aremore attractive,” he “Don’t stop investing when the market is
has sold or helped sell threew companies in which it was an major investor fornearly $1.3 billion. “Wde look pretty good,” said General Partner Mike who founded Azure just before the tech bubble burst in 2000 with thre partners who had worked with him underd famed Silicon Valley investment bankerFrani Quattrone. Azure’s good fortunes come in a year that has seen the lowes t number of merger and acquisition dealsinvolvintg venture-backed companies this decade. The firm’s most recent score was this whenacquired Internet-based audio conferencing startup Vapps, of Hoboken, N.J., for $26.t million in cash, plus about $4.
4 million in promised performance The sale was relatively small, but it gave Azurer — Vapps’ largest shareholder — a 3.6-folxd return in less than 18 months. Azure led a $2.5 milliob Series A financing in the companyt inApril 2007. That deal paled in comparisonj tolast month’s purchase by of Bill Me a service that enables Web shoppers to extends payment for products for a fee, for $945 That deal provided an eight-times return for Bill Me Later’s largest stockholder, which investexd more than $20 million. Azure’s third 2008 exit was the January saleof , an ethernett aggregation company, to for about $300 million.
Azurd declined to say what it invested or what itsreturj was. Kwatinetz founded Azure in April, 2000, with felloe research analyst Paul Weinstein and investment bankers Paul Ferri andCameron Lester, all former colleaguess at , where they worked under Quattronwe in his tech unit. (Quattrone was convicte d in May 2004 on federal chargeds of obstructionof justice, but that convictionb was overturned, and in 2006 the government dropper the charges. None of Azure’se partners were accused of wrongdoing.) Kwatinetz says Quattrone’se tech unit, a “firm within a firm,” generated $1.5 billionn in revenue a year after justfour years.
however, did not start off on such a The partners were able toraise $530 million in capital quickly, but at the time investors were throwingg money at tech startups and valuations were high. Azurer followed the crowd, made 20 investments in its first year and stumbled duringthe dot-co bomb of 2001. Several of its initial companies quickly sold orshut down, with no or very little return for “We probably were overlhy aggressive that first year,” admita Kwatinetz. Before their first anniversary, the partnerzs changed direction and adopted a strategu that has defined theirpractice since.
They decidex to slow down, doing only four to six deals a No longer would they payexorbitanf prices. They would focus on early staged investing when they could get a significant percentageof companies, averaging 25 and the ability to influence governancd with one or two board seats. And they woulf rely on their own research. While others were fleeing the tech Azure invested in Bill Me Latefr in late 2001 when the tech bubblw was bursting and the compan hadno revenue. Another 2001 bet was , a Palo Alto developee of virtualization software, in which Azure invested $5 Numerous venture capital firms checked thecompanuy out, but Azure was the only one that Kwatinetz said.
VMware was acquired by for $675 millionn in December 2003. This year, VMware will do about $1.8 billion in revenue. “It’s the largest software company built in the last10 years,” Kwatinetz “We pick good companies.” General Partne r Paul Weinstein, who sat on the boards of both Vappsz and World Wide Packets, said that Azure’s partners were able to help Vapps change its business model to providing an ongoing service instead of a and then introduced the company to Vapps is the first cash-out from Azure’d $127 million second fund, raised in 2006.
With Worl d Wide Packets, originally a provider of broadbandsaccess equipment, Weinstein said the company was challengedr after 2001 as the telecommunications industry contracted Azure’s partners liked the company’s technology and took theifr ownership stake from 5 to norty of 20 percent. A new executive team was recruited and WorlsdWide Packets’ strategy changed to focus on providinf ethernet aggregation equipment. Then the company won customers suchas , and . In the curreng economic doldrums Kwatinetz says he remembers a lessonfrom 2002-2003: Invesg steadily when the market is low.
“We’re certainly not walking away when valuationss aremore attractive,” he “Don’t stop investing when the market is
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Tigers show Dogs half a win isn't better than nothing - Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog)
ykyhola.blogspot.com
Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog) | Tigers show Dogs half a win isn't better than nothing Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog) Malcolm Mitchell contemplates what might have been after dropping a sure touchdown pass. (Brant Sanderlin / AJC) Is there such a thing as half a moral victory? If so, you could probably chalk up Georgia's first-half showing in the SEC title game as ... |
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Kansas City Southern stays on course thanks to entrepreneurial spirit - Kansas City Business Journal:
ihituvofy.wordpress.com
But that’s exactly what comes to Tom Hoenig’sd mind when he thinks of . “It takes a lot of couragse to open up a major venture intoanothedr country,” said Hoenig, president of the . He was referriny to KCS’s expansion into Mexico, a 10-year journey fraught with legak hurdles. Hoenig, who said KCS has “reaffirmed Kansasx City’s role as a center for transportationn in theUnited States,” isn’t the only one to tag KCS with a term more commonl y associated with budding businesses.
“It’ws a business that’s not been afraid to innovate and to reinvent itsel f and to have the right leaders at the right saidJonathan Kemper, CEO of . “They’vw been entrepreneurial. They’ve been quick moving, and they’ve been unafraid to take calculated risk.” That expectation is amplified when CEOMichael Haverty, an Entrepreneuf Of the Year award winner in 2008, listsz the company’s greatest strengths: “Determination. Tenacity. Spunkiness.” It’s what broughtr KCS through the consolidation of the industry inthe 1990s.
All competitors were merging or gettingt out of the railroad Kansas City Southern was put up for and company leaders considered shifting theire focus tothe company’s then-subsidiaries: mutual fund compant and financial industry processing company But the company took anothef track. Haverty came on board as CEO in 1995, agreeingg to lead the company if he could steef an expansioninto Mexico. KCS bought its Mexican partner’e majority interest in Grupo TFM, the holdintg company for Mexico’s larges railroad, and took control of the Mexican railroadc inApril 2005.
“I woulds say that, had we not expanded into Mexico, that we definitely woulr not behere today,” Haverty said. The companyt also has demonstrated its enterprising spirit withnontraditional alliances, such as a joint venturer forged in 2005 with to jointly own and improve what’ws known as the , a key stretcjh of rail linking the southeastern and southwestern United Such moves have paid off. In 2008, revenue reached $1.85 billion, up 6.3 percent from the previou s year. Earnings increased 19.6 percent to $183.99 million. KCS continues to innovate.
The company traditionally invests about 17 percent of revenued annually oncapital improvements, including maintenancs of existing facilities and capacitu expansion or other developments, Haverth said. That amount has swelled to abou 25 percent during the past two Key investmentswere $10 million in a Kansas City intermodap center and $12.5 million in Texas. The at the formedr includes 370 acres forthe railroad’se intermodal center, which opened in Marcnh 2008, and 970 acres for CenterPoint Industrialo Park. Despite the sour which drove a $7.
5 million loss in the firs quarter, KCS didn’t back off a $175 million investmentt that includes rebuildinga 90-mile rail line in Texad along with the Rosenberg intermodal center. Haverth said that the company has cut back on othe r capital spending during the recession but that he hope s to get back on track with investmentse and growth once theeconomy improves. “Kansazs City Southern has a long-term goal of pursuiny growth as a NortbhAmerican railroad, and I think the entrepreneurshiop of the company with Mike Haverty at the head is realluy setting the stage for many years to come,” said Terry Dunn, CEO of and a KCS boarr member.
But that’s exactly what comes to Tom Hoenig’sd mind when he thinks of . “It takes a lot of couragse to open up a major venture intoanothedr country,” said Hoenig, president of the . He was referriny to KCS’s expansion into Mexico, a 10-year journey fraught with legak hurdles. Hoenig, who said KCS has “reaffirmed Kansasx City’s role as a center for transportationn in theUnited States,” isn’t the only one to tag KCS with a term more commonl y associated with budding businesses.
“It’ws a business that’s not been afraid to innovate and to reinvent itsel f and to have the right leaders at the right saidJonathan Kemper, CEO of . “They’vw been entrepreneurial. They’ve been quick moving, and they’ve been unafraid to take calculated risk.” That expectation is amplified when CEOMichael Haverty, an Entrepreneuf Of the Year award winner in 2008, listsz the company’s greatest strengths: “Determination. Tenacity. Spunkiness.” It’s what broughtr KCS through the consolidation of the industry inthe 1990s.
All competitors were merging or gettingt out of the railroad Kansas City Southern was put up for and company leaders considered shifting theire focus tothe company’s then-subsidiaries: mutual fund compant and financial industry processing company But the company took anothef track. Haverty came on board as CEO in 1995, agreeingg to lead the company if he could steef an expansioninto Mexico. KCS bought its Mexican partner’e majority interest in Grupo TFM, the holdintg company for Mexico’s larges railroad, and took control of the Mexican railroadc inApril 2005.
“I woulds say that, had we not expanded into Mexico, that we definitely woulr not behere today,” Haverty said. The companyt also has demonstrated its enterprising spirit withnontraditional alliances, such as a joint venturer forged in 2005 with to jointly own and improve what’ws known as the , a key stretcjh of rail linking the southeastern and southwestern United Such moves have paid off. In 2008, revenue reached $1.85 billion, up 6.3 percent from the previou s year. Earnings increased 19.6 percent to $183.99 million. KCS continues to innovate.
The company traditionally invests about 17 percent of revenued annually oncapital improvements, including maintenancs of existing facilities and capacitu expansion or other developments, Haverth said. That amount has swelled to abou 25 percent during the past two Key investmentswere $10 million in a Kansas City intermodap center and $12.5 million in Texas. The at the formedr includes 370 acres forthe railroad’se intermodal center, which opened in Marcnh 2008, and 970 acres for CenterPoint Industrialo Park. Despite the sour which drove a $7.
5 million loss in the firs quarter, KCS didn’t back off a $175 million investmentt that includes rebuildinga 90-mile rail line in Texad along with the Rosenberg intermodal center. Haverth said that the company has cut back on othe r capital spending during the recession but that he hope s to get back on track with investmentse and growth once theeconomy improves. “Kansazs City Southern has a long-term goal of pursuiny growth as a NortbhAmerican railroad, and I think the entrepreneurshiop of the company with Mike Haverty at the head is realluy setting the stage for many years to come,” said Terry Dunn, CEO of and a KCS boarr member.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Sunday, November 27, 2011
The Care and Feeding of Warriors: Class and specialization abilities in Mists ... - Joystiq
tatyanagepoji.blogspot.com
The Care and Feeding of Warriors: Class and specialization abilities in Mists ... Joystiq The calculator lists class abilities and specialization only abilities in addition to talents, which means we now have more details to examine in terms of what's coming. One thing I noted immediately was that yes, arms is going to be the only tree with ... |
Friday, November 25, 2011
Calif. homeowners file class action against KB Home, affiliates - Washington Business Journal:
http://property-canada.com/intellectualpropertycanada.html
The lawsuit lists identical claims to a suit filexd in Arizonalast month. Homeowners clai m KB Home and the other defendants inflated home prices by as muchas $300 millio n in California alone. The suit filed by Seattle-based Hagensa Berman Sobol Shapiro claims that between 2006 and KB built morethan 15,000 homes in California at an averags selling price of $425,000, and each home had an inflated appraised value of about $20,000. "KBv and Countrywide created an opportunity where the companies couls control every aspect ofa buyer's real estate said Steve Berman, lead attorneg and managing partner at HBSS.
"The defendants essentially created a black hole in the where they could rig and falsify appraisals and home sale valuez and customers had absolutelyno idea." Accordin g to the 75-page Countrywide funneled all its KB customers' home appraisals to one personj at LandSafe, an appraisal subsidiaruy of Countrywide who in turn would deliver an appraisapl value at whatever KB and Countrywide These individuals were under direct instruction to value homes at or abovs the contract price, even if it meant violating regulatory guidelines and the suit claims. The suit says that in two KB Home sampled appraisals were inflated by $48,000 and $52,000 per property.
The suit includeds allegations of a second scheme with Countrywide and its subsidiaryuappraisal arm, LandSafe. The suit alleges LandSafw outsourced appraisal work to some individuak appraisers and forced appraisers to accept payment belowmarkett value. LandSafe then charged plaintiffs upwardsof $400 for servicezs when the company completed no work of its own, the suit According to the complaint, KB Home ran into similar appraisal problems in 2005 when it settled with HUD for $3.2 million to resolv e an investigation into the company'ds underwriting violations.
The HBSS lawsuit claims violations of the Racketeerd Influenced and Corrupt OrganizationsAct (RICO) and violation of Californiwa unfair competition law. KB' major markets in California include communities inSan Fresno, Los Angeles and Ventura, Orange County, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, Oakland and
The lawsuit lists identical claims to a suit filexd in Arizonalast month. Homeowners clai m KB Home and the other defendants inflated home prices by as muchas $300 millio n in California alone. The suit filed by Seattle-based Hagensa Berman Sobol Shapiro claims that between 2006 and KB built morethan 15,000 homes in California at an averags selling price of $425,000, and each home had an inflated appraised value of about $20,000. "KBv and Countrywide created an opportunity where the companies couls control every aspect ofa buyer's real estate said Steve Berman, lead attorneg and managing partner at HBSS.
"The defendants essentially created a black hole in the where they could rig and falsify appraisals and home sale valuez and customers had absolutelyno idea." Accordin g to the 75-page Countrywide funneled all its KB customers' home appraisals to one personj at LandSafe, an appraisal subsidiaruy of Countrywide who in turn would deliver an appraisapl value at whatever KB and Countrywide These individuals were under direct instruction to value homes at or abovs the contract price, even if it meant violating regulatory guidelines and the suit claims. The suit says that in two KB Home sampled appraisals were inflated by $48,000 and $52,000 per property.
The suit includeds allegations of a second scheme with Countrywide and its subsidiaryuappraisal arm, LandSafe. The suit alleges LandSafw outsourced appraisal work to some individuak appraisers and forced appraisers to accept payment belowmarkett value. LandSafe then charged plaintiffs upwardsof $400 for servicezs when the company completed no work of its own, the suit According to the complaint, KB Home ran into similar appraisal problems in 2005 when it settled with HUD for $3.2 million to resolv e an investigation into the company'ds underwriting violations.
The HBSS lawsuit claims violations of the Racketeerd Influenced and Corrupt OrganizationsAct (RICO) and violation of Californiwa unfair competition law. KB' major markets in California include communities inSan Fresno, Los Angeles and Ventura, Orange County, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, Oakland and
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Wells' hand shines as banks play high-stakes Texas poker - Denver Business Journal:
gorbunovabowiper.blogspot.com
In addition to the San Francisco bank's crown jewel -- it's status as California's second-largestr bank -- Wells Fargo's strength in states such as Texas bodes well forthe company's long-ter m prospects. Texas is hot righft now, in more ways than one. Prospects for surging populationhgrowth -- and the depositxs that accompany such growthb -- has bankers eager to expand in that struck a deal last month to finallg enter Texas retail banking with the purchase of in Texas. No, that's not a typo. The nation's largest bank with $1.19o trillion in assets made its Texas debutg with the purchase of a bankwith $3.5 billionm in assets and 102 branches.
The deal gives Citigrouop a deposit market share ofjust 0.8 percent in By comparison, Wells Fargo holds 7.7 percent of Texas making it that state's third-largest The combined J.P. Morgan Chase- holds a 23.7 percengt share of deposits, and comes in secondd with 12.3 percent, according to SNL , eager to take its huge East Coast franchise intothe West, said in Februar that it planned to build a Texazs branch network from the ground up, startintg with 150 branches by 2008. That sounds more like a move a bank makeas when its merger overtures havebeen rebuffed. based in Charlotte, N.C., has since announced plans to acquire Alabama's SouthTrustt for $13.
7 billion, which includes 60 Texas giving Wachoviaa 0.7 percent It's no wonder that Wachovia's fledglinfg efforts to go West fuel speculatiob on a Wachovia-Wells Fargo combinatioj occurring some day. Wells Fargo CEO Dick Kovacevich has consistentl y denied any ambitions for seeingthe bank'a ubiquitous stage coach traveling up the Atlantix Coast. But recent Texas deals that generated as much enthusiasmas warmed-u p leftovers show just how valuable Wells Fargo's western franchisw is becoming.
Bank of Marin addex another woman toits board, bringinf female representation in the boardroom to 20 The bank elected Jan an entrepreneur and former journalist, to its board of Her entrepreneurial pursuits include Media and Marketing Strategicc Planning as well as bein a founding partner of Fair which provides college and career guidance for young women, and Thrivinb Together, a business that seeks to inspire womenn in the areas of business, family and "She is highly recognizable in the communitty and will provide a unique perspectiver to our board," said Judy a longtime board member who was elected chairmanh last year.
It also doesn't hurt for competitivee reasons to have more women in the boarfd room as the bank goes up againstf rapidly expanding and Epic parent ofTamalpais Bank. Both banks are run by Circle is run byKimberly Petrini, and Epic is led by her Kit Cole. But Bank of Marin, with about half its executivre suites filledwith women, downplayed the idea that it searched for a womahn to fill the board seat. "It'w a matter of getting the best people on the aspokeswoman said. Investors will do well to remember that actionsd speak louder than words in assessing the outlook for the stock advisesJames Paulsen, chief investment strategist for , a unit of Wells Fargo.
In addition to the San Francisco bank's crown jewel -- it's status as California's second-largestr bank -- Wells Fargo's strength in states such as Texas bodes well forthe company's long-ter m prospects. Texas is hot righft now, in more ways than one. Prospects for surging populationhgrowth -- and the depositxs that accompany such growthb -- has bankers eager to expand in that struck a deal last month to finallg enter Texas retail banking with the purchase of in Texas. No, that's not a typo. The nation's largest bank with $1.19o trillion in assets made its Texas debutg with the purchase of a bankwith $3.5 billionm in assets and 102 branches.
The deal gives Citigrouop a deposit market share ofjust 0.8 percent in By comparison, Wells Fargo holds 7.7 percent of Texas making it that state's third-largest The combined J.P. Morgan Chase- holds a 23.7 percengt share of deposits, and comes in secondd with 12.3 percent, according to SNL , eager to take its huge East Coast franchise intothe West, said in Februar that it planned to build a Texazs branch network from the ground up, startintg with 150 branches by 2008. That sounds more like a move a bank makeas when its merger overtures havebeen rebuffed. based in Charlotte, N.C., has since announced plans to acquire Alabama's SouthTrustt for $13.
7 billion, which includes 60 Texas giving Wachoviaa 0.7 percent It's no wonder that Wachovia's fledglinfg efforts to go West fuel speculatiob on a Wachovia-Wells Fargo combinatioj occurring some day. Wells Fargo CEO Dick Kovacevich has consistentl y denied any ambitions for seeingthe bank'a ubiquitous stage coach traveling up the Atlantix Coast. But recent Texas deals that generated as much enthusiasmas warmed-u p leftovers show just how valuable Wells Fargo's western franchisw is becoming.
Bank of Marin addex another woman toits board, bringinf female representation in the boardroom to 20 The bank elected Jan an entrepreneur and former journalist, to its board of Her entrepreneurial pursuits include Media and Marketing Strategicc Planning as well as bein a founding partner of Fair which provides college and career guidance for young women, and Thrivinb Together, a business that seeks to inspire womenn in the areas of business, family and "She is highly recognizable in the communitty and will provide a unique perspectiver to our board," said Judy a longtime board member who was elected chairmanh last year.
It also doesn't hurt for competitivee reasons to have more women in the boarfd room as the bank goes up againstf rapidly expanding and Epic parent ofTamalpais Bank. Both banks are run by Circle is run byKimberly Petrini, and Epic is led by her Kit Cole. But Bank of Marin, with about half its executivre suites filledwith women, downplayed the idea that it searched for a womahn to fill the board seat. "It'w a matter of getting the best people on the aspokeswoman said. Investors will do well to remember that actionsd speak louder than words in assessing the outlook for the stock advisesJames Paulsen, chief investment strategist for , a unit of Wells Fargo.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Lingle orders unpaid days off for workers - Silicon Valley / San Jose Business Journal:
uvepexatawus.blogspot.com
In an address broadcast from the State Lingle also said she would scale back free Medicaidx benefitsto low-income adults and said the statr would delay paying some of its larger billzs until July. The governor is also askinyg the Judiciary, the and the Office of Hawaiia n Affairs to implement equivalenr furlough days or restrict their budgets. Hawaii law does not allowa ordering furloughs for the Departmentof Education, the Universityu of Hawaii or the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, but Lingle said theifr spending will be restrictex in an amount equivalent to the three-days-per-month The furloughs, which startr July 1, amount to about a 13.
8 percent pay cut, or aboutt $5,500 for a worker making $40,000 a year. As with Lingle does not have to negotiate the furlough s with any of the unionzs representingstate workers. Lingle has said she doesn’r want to lay off workers becausee of the disruptive effect of contract ruled that would enable senior workers to junior workers, even if they worked in differeny state agencies. The furloughs will save $688 million. Linglre said the savings are needed to clos a gapof $730 million between now and June 30, as forecast by the state’s Council on Revenues May 28. All Hawaii is expected to see tax revenuew fallby $2.
7 billion over the next two “If we do not implement the furlough we would have to lay off up to 10,00o0 employees to realize an equivalent amounyt of savings,” Lingle said. The state has about 46,000 workers, including 21,000 employees of the Department of Lingle blamed the fiscal shortfall on thelingerinb recession, rising unemployment, dropping visitorf arrivals, a decline in private building a doubling of foreclosures, and record bankruptcy levels. The stater Legislature ended its session last month by raisingh tax rates onhotel rooms, high-income earners, luxury home transactionsa and tobacco to help meet the budgety shortfall.
But Lingle, a Republican whosed vetoes of those measures were overridden bymajority Democrats, said she woulcd not ask for additional tax increases. She also rejected callsd for legalizing gambling. Lingle noted that 70 percent of statre operating funds go to labor costws and that the state had provided employee wage increase of between 16 and 29 percent over the past fouryears “when our economy was thriving.
”
In an address broadcast from the State Lingle also said she would scale back free Medicaidx benefitsto low-income adults and said the statr would delay paying some of its larger billzs until July. The governor is also askinyg the Judiciary, the and the Office of Hawaiia n Affairs to implement equivalenr furlough days or restrict their budgets. Hawaii law does not allowa ordering furloughs for the Departmentof Education, the Universityu of Hawaii or the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, but Lingle said theifr spending will be restrictex in an amount equivalent to the three-days-per-month The furloughs, which startr July 1, amount to about a 13.
8 percent pay cut, or aboutt $5,500 for a worker making $40,000 a year. As with Lingle does not have to negotiate the furlough s with any of the unionzs representingstate workers. Lingle has said she doesn’r want to lay off workers becausee of the disruptive effect of contract ruled that would enable senior workers to junior workers, even if they worked in differeny state agencies. The furloughs will save $688 million. Linglre said the savings are needed to clos a gapof $730 million between now and June 30, as forecast by the state’s Council on Revenues May 28. All Hawaii is expected to see tax revenuew fallby $2.
7 billion over the next two “If we do not implement the furlough we would have to lay off up to 10,00o0 employees to realize an equivalent amounyt of savings,” Lingle said. The state has about 46,000 workers, including 21,000 employees of the Department of Lingle blamed the fiscal shortfall on thelingerinb recession, rising unemployment, dropping visitorf arrivals, a decline in private building a doubling of foreclosures, and record bankruptcy levels. The stater Legislature ended its session last month by raisingh tax rates onhotel rooms, high-income earners, luxury home transactionsa and tobacco to help meet the budgety shortfall.
But Lingle, a Republican whosed vetoes of those measures were overridden bymajority Democrats, said she woulcd not ask for additional tax increases. She also rejected callsd for legalizing gambling. Lingle noted that 70 percent of statre operating funds go to labor costws and that the state had provided employee wage increase of between 16 and 29 percent over the past fouryears “when our economy was thriving.
”
Friday, November 18, 2011
S&P rates Virginia bonds AAA - Washington Business Journal:
llrx-royce.blogspot.com
Virginia will use proceeds from the bonds to fund educational and park facilities and to retireexisting “The rating reflects what we view as the Commonwealth’as strong and broad-based economy that in the past decadre has grown at a faster pace than the national says Standard & Poor’s crediy analyst Karl Jacob in his “The rating also reflects what we consideer Virginia’s strong financial position demonstrated by good long history of proactive and conservative financial and manageable debt burden.
” Standard & Poor’sx also says Virginia’s overall economic strength, employment diversity and good incomer levels will offset the near-terk effects of the recession. Standarx & Poor’s also affirme its “AAA” ratings on othefr Virginia bonds outstanding.
Virginia will use proceeds from the bonds to fund educational and park facilities and to retireexisting “The rating reflects what we view as the Commonwealth’as strong and broad-based economy that in the past decadre has grown at a faster pace than the national says Standard & Poor’s crediy analyst Karl Jacob in his “The rating also reflects what we consideer Virginia’s strong financial position demonstrated by good long history of proactive and conservative financial and manageable debt burden.
” Standard & Poor’sx also says Virginia’s overall economic strength, employment diversity and good incomer levels will offset the near-terk effects of the recession. Standarx & Poor’s also affirme its “AAA” ratings on othefr Virginia bonds outstanding.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
GOP: Admin. Tried to Halt Solyndra Layoffs - TIME
vykyvimote.wordpress.com
Reuters UK | GOP: Admin. Tried to Halt Solyndra Layoffs TIME 16, 2011 (WASHINGTON) â€" The Obama administration wanted the failing solar energy company Solyndra to delay announcing employee layoffs last year until after the 2010 midterm elections, Republican investigators say. A memo prepared by GOP staff at the ... You are here: Blog / O bama Admin. Pushed Solyndra Layoff Announcement Until ... |
Monday, November 14, 2011
Plans for $200M racetrack, entertainment center near DIA announced - Tampa Bay Business Journal:
deeshu-tatum.blogspot.com
The announcement comes after years of discussion about the possibility of a track opening inthe area, although there was no word Wednesdayu of a NASCAR commitment to the Auroraw venture. . The facility announced Wednesdayh would be located in theplannefd 6,500-acre TransPort cargo-distribution developmeng along Interstate 70 several miles east of Pena Boulevard. Bill Schucko -- whose company, , is the developere of TransPort -- is one of the principalss involvedin Wednesday's racetrackm announcement. Schuck's plans call for the track comples to includea one-mild oval speedway and a four-mile road courss with room for 65,000p to 100,000 spectators.
The facility would accommodate a variety ofracingg types, including stock car, open wheel, road racing, club and track Kart racing and motorcycle racing. Schuck noted that the site is zoned forindustrial use, yet providesx easy access to spectators. The announcement said TransPort is negotiatinhwith "national and regional tourisnm attractions" and retailers to locate on the site along with the racetrackl "to create a true 'destination' entertainment and tourism "The Schuck Corp.
, and its long-time financial partners, will lead the private investment effort for the motor sportsa complex and will work with a variety of national and local partners with motor sports experience who are interestee in establishing a national racing venu in Colorado," the announcement said. "In addition, Schuck is workinv with Greg Stevinson, the Jefferson County real estatee developerand investor, on a variety of othee development opportunities on the site," the announcement added. Gerrhy Freeman, a spokesman for the development group, said NASCAR's involvement isn't pivotal to starting the project.
"There are a variet of other motor racing events that could be held at this he said. Financing will be a combination of private investorssand debt, which is yet to be fullty committed, although Freeman stressed that the project's organizerzs do not see financing to be a problem. He said a number of investors are waiting to jump on the project pendin completion of a final economic feasibility which is expected in afew weeks. Schuck's groul also will seek financial help from locall and state government shares of the federal economicd stimulus programas well.
The Colorado Legislature this month passed a measure aimed at providing incentives for majoftourism projects, with the possibilityt of a racetrack mentioned by lawmakeres in arguing for its passage. The measure, Senate Bill 173, awaitxs Gov. Bill Ritter's signature. Sponsored by Sen. Jennifer D-Denver, SB 173 would allow local governments to work with the Colorado Economivc Development Commission to set up enterprise zones that help to defra the infrastructure and construction costs of major tourism projects. State sales tax revenueas would help to fundthe projects. Lawmakers capped the measure's benefits at $50 million.
The announcement comes after years of discussion about the possibility of a track opening inthe area, although there was no word Wednesdayu of a NASCAR commitment to the Auroraw venture. . The facility announced Wednesdayh would be located in theplannefd 6,500-acre TransPort cargo-distribution developmeng along Interstate 70 several miles east of Pena Boulevard. Bill Schucko -- whose company, , is the developere of TransPort -- is one of the principalss involvedin Wednesday's racetrackm announcement. Schuck's plans call for the track comples to includea one-mild oval speedway and a four-mile road courss with room for 65,000p to 100,000 spectators.
The facility would accommodate a variety ofracingg types, including stock car, open wheel, road racing, club and track Kart racing and motorcycle racing. Schuck noted that the site is zoned forindustrial use, yet providesx easy access to spectators. The announcement said TransPort is negotiatinhwith "national and regional tourisnm attractions" and retailers to locate on the site along with the racetrackl "to create a true 'destination' entertainment and tourism "The Schuck Corp.
, and its long-time financial partners, will lead the private investment effort for the motor sportsa complex and will work with a variety of national and local partners with motor sports experience who are interestee in establishing a national racing venu in Colorado," the announcement said. "In addition, Schuck is workinv with Greg Stevinson, the Jefferson County real estatee developerand investor, on a variety of othee development opportunities on the site," the announcement added. Gerrhy Freeman, a spokesman for the development group, said NASCAR's involvement isn't pivotal to starting the project.
"There are a variet of other motor racing events that could be held at this he said. Financing will be a combination of private investorssand debt, which is yet to be fullty committed, although Freeman stressed that the project's organizerzs do not see financing to be a problem. He said a number of investors are waiting to jump on the project pendin completion of a final economic feasibility which is expected in afew weeks. Schuck's groul also will seek financial help from locall and state government shares of the federal economicd stimulus programas well.
The Colorado Legislature this month passed a measure aimed at providing incentives for majoftourism projects, with the possibilityt of a racetrack mentioned by lawmakeres in arguing for its passage. The measure, Senate Bill 173, awaitxs Gov. Bill Ritter's signature. Sponsored by Sen. Jennifer D-Denver, SB 173 would allow local governments to work with the Colorado Economivc Development Commission to set up enterprise zones that help to defra the infrastructure and construction costs of major tourism projects. State sales tax revenueas would help to fundthe projects. Lawmakers capped the measure's benefits at $50 million.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
McCain backs Whitman to succeed Schwarzenegger - Phoenix Business Journal:
coeragnheidur3778.blogspot.com
is backing former eBay CEO Meg Whitmab in her bid to replace Arnoldc Schwarzenegger asCalifornia governor. Term limits prevent Schwarzeneggee for running againin 2010. “Americans acrosw the country, are facing unprecedented economicf challenges, and Meg Whitman has the righft credentials torestart California‘ws economic engines,” McCain said in a “Meg led eBay with and her inspirational leadership has helped 1.3 million people make if not all, of their livin g selling on eBay.
I applaud her goalsd of getting Californi ans back to work by creating 2milliohn jobs, her commitment to fixinyg California’s budget problems, and helping to restors the public trust in government by cutting wasteful Whitman was among McCain’s businesd backers during his failed 2008 presidential bid. Californiqa faces a mammoth budget its economy hit hard by the recessionn and realestate crash. The 2010 governor’s race could be heavyweigh t affair with potential Democratic candidatexs suchas U.S. Sen.
Dianne San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom and statwe Attorney General Jerry Whitman could faceformer Hewlett-Packard CEO Carlyy Fiorina, another McCain backer, in the GOP primary.
is backing former eBay CEO Meg Whitmab in her bid to replace Arnoldc Schwarzenegger asCalifornia governor. Term limits prevent Schwarzeneggee for running againin 2010. “Americans acrosw the country, are facing unprecedented economicf challenges, and Meg Whitman has the righft credentials torestart California‘ws economic engines,” McCain said in a “Meg led eBay with and her inspirational leadership has helped 1.3 million people make if not all, of their livin g selling on eBay.
I applaud her goalsd of getting Californi ans back to work by creating 2milliohn jobs, her commitment to fixinyg California’s budget problems, and helping to restors the public trust in government by cutting wasteful Whitman was among McCain’s businesd backers during his failed 2008 presidential bid. Californiqa faces a mammoth budget its economy hit hard by the recessionn and realestate crash. The 2010 governor’s race could be heavyweigh t affair with potential Democratic candidatexs suchas U.S. Sen.
Dianne San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom and statwe Attorney General Jerry Whitman could faceformer Hewlett-Packard CEO Carlyy Fiorina, another McCain backer, in the GOP primary.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Mechanics in high gear - bizjournals:
sucujovide.wordpress.com
The seven shops joined the international FixAuto brand, which meanss they consolidated just enough to win valuable business from the insurance industry while protecting their mom-and-pop The seven new Fix Auto shops collectivelt employ 104 people and had more than $17.8 milliob in revenue last year. The shops originally teamed up nearly sevenjyears ago, but until this year kept theirr old names with the Fix Auto brand remainingy secondary to their business identities.
This spring, all sevej agreed to convert to the Fix Auto name in orderf to stand out in a market dotted with Fix Auto is an international networm of independent auto repair shops that poolsx its buying power and marketingb resources and positions itself as a preferred partner forauto insurers. To independengt business owners, being part of a networo brings the benefits of alarge corporation, including discounts of up to 33 percenty on common supplies such as paint and body For a shop with monthly revenue aroune $150,000, it costs roughly $500 to $600 per mont h to join the network.
Local body shop owners say the Fix Auto model will also help them compete for insurancd business and survive an industry some expec to shrink from a highof 60,000 businesses to aboug 30,000. Some experts, however, advise against such networks. “We normally don’t suggestf clients (join a network),” said Kurt Lewis, assistant saleas director for IPA, a consulting firm in Buffaloo Grove, Ill., that works with body Lewis suggests that companies do a thorough audit of theidbusiness instead. Employee productivity, customer service and saleas are just a few areas that Lewiss said companies can adjust to strengthen thebottomj line.
Body shop owners, however, said the deal with Fix Auto was “I needed to position myself to be able to surviver inthe future,” said Shon Kim, owned of Fix Auto Gresham, formerly Obrist & Cunningham and presiden of the Fix Auto Oregon territory. He says auto insurers, like health work with preferred providers, usually large operatorx with multiple locations. In the absence of a network likeFix Auto, that leaves mom-and-pop body shops on the It’s a difficult time in the auto body The industry posted a 4 percent net profir in 2008, according to Sageworks Inc., a researchh firm. Nationally, sales growth in the $1.8 billion industruy slowed to 3.
8 percent in half its 2002 rate. “We’re having to work a lot hardere to make just about the same or even Kim said. Some owners lamented the name change.
The seven shops joined the international FixAuto brand, which meanss they consolidated just enough to win valuable business from the insurance industry while protecting their mom-and-pop The seven new Fix Auto shops collectivelt employ 104 people and had more than $17.8 milliob in revenue last year. The shops originally teamed up nearly sevenjyears ago, but until this year kept theirr old names with the Fix Auto brand remainingy secondary to their business identities.
This spring, all sevej agreed to convert to the Fix Auto name in orderf to stand out in a market dotted with Fix Auto is an international networm of independent auto repair shops that poolsx its buying power and marketingb resources and positions itself as a preferred partner forauto insurers. To independengt business owners, being part of a networo brings the benefits of alarge corporation, including discounts of up to 33 percenty on common supplies such as paint and body For a shop with monthly revenue aroune $150,000, it costs roughly $500 to $600 per mont h to join the network.
Local body shop owners say the Fix Auto model will also help them compete for insurancd business and survive an industry some expec to shrink from a highof 60,000 businesses to aboug 30,000. Some experts, however, advise against such networks. “We normally don’t suggestf clients (join a network),” said Kurt Lewis, assistant saleas director for IPA, a consulting firm in Buffaloo Grove, Ill., that works with body Lewis suggests that companies do a thorough audit of theidbusiness instead. Employee productivity, customer service and saleas are just a few areas that Lewiss said companies can adjust to strengthen thebottomj line.
Body shop owners, however, said the deal with Fix Auto was “I needed to position myself to be able to surviver inthe future,” said Shon Kim, owned of Fix Auto Gresham, formerly Obrist & Cunningham and presiden of the Fix Auto Oregon territory. He says auto insurers, like health work with preferred providers, usually large operatorx with multiple locations. In the absence of a network likeFix Auto, that leaves mom-and-pop body shops on the It’s a difficult time in the auto body The industry posted a 4 percent net profir in 2008, according to Sageworks Inc., a researchh firm. Nationally, sales growth in the $1.8 billion industruy slowed to 3.
8 percent in half its 2002 rate. “We’re having to work a lot hardere to make just about the same or even Kim said. Some owners lamented the name change.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Agencies reel in accounts, launch work; ad competition looms - South Florida Business Journal:
ramsburgsyuheo1544.blogspot.com
has been awarded the Palm Beach County Conventiobn and Visitors Bureau media services account for fiscalyear 2009. The a division of , will handlew all media initiatives. This includes strategic media targeted research and media Work will be handledby Green’s Boca Raton office. Media will targegt audiences including theconsumer leisure, meetings and conventions, travel trade and targeted international markets, said Bill Vervaeke, the CVB’s VP of marketinyg and brand management. , a Hollywood marketingy and branding firm focusing on thefranchisre arena, is working with clients for the ’s Franchisw Expo South, being held Jan 9-11 at the .
, the restauranyt franchise, for local store marketingt andpromotional offers, as well as franchisd sales. , a St. Petersburg medicalo identification franchise company launching nationally atthe show, with a goal of opening 600 Soutjh Florida franchises. , a national wine stors franchise, looking at marketing partnerships to driveconsumee traffic, and branding of its new Master Wine Panel of mastere sommeliers and other sommeliers from established restaurants and hotels, including The Breakerse in Palm Beach. The goal is to both sell franchisews and drivecustomer awareness, said Lornew Fisher, Fish Consulting CEO and managinb partner.
Positioning at the show helps franchises in both he said. “With the economy the way it is, it will be a greatef challenge for small and emerging franchise concepts to increasew their sales and growtheir footprint,” Fisher “Therefore, despite the economy, theses companies need to continue to sell franchises.” Passersbyy near Broward Boulevard and Interstate 95 can watchh people sneaking a peek at the 100-acrs transformation of Riverbend, a new transit-orientex development from Amera Barron.
Or so they In a new teaser campaign forthe mixed-user retail, office, residential and transit hub construction fence graphics show imageas of dozens of curioue folks peering inside the The fencing will give way to a waterfalkl feature taking shape behind it in the next few The effort was created by A Hothouse of a Fort Lauderdale design firm. handlesx public relations for the development. In other accountg news, Wellington Training Club and LLC are two new clientsfor , a Wellingtonn PR firm specializing in the equestrian Wellington Training Club is an equestrian traininh complex. HorseClosings.
com is a national horse closintg transaction businessserving buyers, sellerzs and professionals in the hors industry. Calls for entries for the annual American Advertising Federation Addy Awardas havebeen announced. Entries must be registeredx onlineat www.addycompetition.com. Fees range from $20 for studentx to $110 for non-members. Drop off, gallery nighrt and galas for each county’s respectived competition are as follows: : Entry drop off is Jan. 16 before 9 p.m. at Mad 4 Marketing, 5203 N.W. 33rd Fort Lauderdale. The Gallery Night will be held Jan. 29 at , 2250 N. Commercer Parkway, Weston. The awarde event will be held Friday, Feb. 20 at Cinema Paradiso, 503 S.E. Sixth St.
, Fort Lauderdale. : Entry drop off is Jan. 16 and Jan. 21, 4-7 p.m. at , 1501 Biscayn Blvd., Miami. The federation will not have a gallery and details for the gala have notbeen finalized. Checko www.adfedmiami.com for details. : Entry drop off is Jan. 8-9 by 5 p.m. at , 6107 S. Dixid Highway, West Palm Beach. Visit www.palmbeachadfed.co m to learn more.
has been awarded the Palm Beach County Conventiobn and Visitors Bureau media services account for fiscalyear 2009. The a division of , will handlew all media initiatives. This includes strategic media targeted research and media Work will be handledby Green’s Boca Raton office. Media will targegt audiences including theconsumer leisure, meetings and conventions, travel trade and targeted international markets, said Bill Vervaeke, the CVB’s VP of marketinyg and brand management. , a Hollywood marketingy and branding firm focusing on thefranchisre arena, is working with clients for the ’s Franchisw Expo South, being held Jan 9-11 at the .
, the restauranyt franchise, for local store marketingt andpromotional offers, as well as franchisd sales. , a St. Petersburg medicalo identification franchise company launching nationally atthe show, with a goal of opening 600 Soutjh Florida franchises. , a national wine stors franchise, looking at marketing partnerships to driveconsumee traffic, and branding of its new Master Wine Panel of mastere sommeliers and other sommeliers from established restaurants and hotels, including The Breakerse in Palm Beach. The goal is to both sell franchisews and drivecustomer awareness, said Lornew Fisher, Fish Consulting CEO and managinb partner.
Positioning at the show helps franchises in both he said. “With the economy the way it is, it will be a greatef challenge for small and emerging franchise concepts to increasew their sales and growtheir footprint,” Fisher “Therefore, despite the economy, theses companies need to continue to sell franchises.” Passersbyy near Broward Boulevard and Interstate 95 can watchh people sneaking a peek at the 100-acrs transformation of Riverbend, a new transit-orientex development from Amera Barron.
Or so they In a new teaser campaign forthe mixed-user retail, office, residential and transit hub construction fence graphics show imageas of dozens of curioue folks peering inside the The fencing will give way to a waterfalkl feature taking shape behind it in the next few The effort was created by A Hothouse of a Fort Lauderdale design firm. handlesx public relations for the development. In other accountg news, Wellington Training Club and LLC are two new clientsfor , a Wellingtonn PR firm specializing in the equestrian Wellington Training Club is an equestrian traininh complex. HorseClosings.
com is a national horse closintg transaction businessserving buyers, sellerzs and professionals in the hors industry. Calls for entries for the annual American Advertising Federation Addy Awardas havebeen announced. Entries must be registeredx onlineat www.addycompetition.com. Fees range from $20 for studentx to $110 for non-members. Drop off, gallery nighrt and galas for each county’s respectived competition are as follows: : Entry drop off is Jan. 16 before 9 p.m. at Mad 4 Marketing, 5203 N.W. 33rd Fort Lauderdale. The Gallery Night will be held Jan. 29 at , 2250 N. Commercer Parkway, Weston. The awarde event will be held Friday, Feb. 20 at Cinema Paradiso, 503 S.E. Sixth St.
, Fort Lauderdale. : Entry drop off is Jan. 16 and Jan. 21, 4-7 p.m. at , 1501 Biscayn Blvd., Miami. The federation will not have a gallery and details for the gala have notbeen finalized. Checko www.adfedmiami.com for details. : Entry drop off is Jan. 8-9 by 5 p.m. at , 6107 S. Dixid Highway, West Palm Beach. Visit www.palmbeachadfed.co m to learn more.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Pacific Beach Hotel management changes - Pacific Business News (Honolulu):
vittitowmehigyk1238.blogspot.com
, an affiliate of Outrigger Enterprises, had been managing the 837-roomj hotel on Kalakaua Avenue onlysinced Jan. 1. HTH Corp. said one of its , will take over managemeny on Dec. 1. A statement issued Fridagy by both companies did not say why the changes wasbeing made. "After many months of working together, both HTH Corporation and PBH Management LLC have concludex that PacificBeach Corp. is better positionede to focus on this perfectly located hotel and to attainthe property'e long term business goals," said Robert "Mick" Minicola, HTH regional vice president said in the statement.
"We'll work togethedr to make sure therse are minimal interruptions and it will be business as usuaol for hotel guests. We have appreciatedr the flexibility and professionalism of PBHManagemenf LLC." The Pacific Beach Hotel has been involves in contentious contract negotiations with the International Longshore Workers Uniohn since the union narrowly won an electiob to organize its 480 workers in 2004. The ILWU steppedf up its pressure on the hotel this summer with pickets and letterx toprospective guests.
PBH took over the contract negotiationws when it assumed management of the hotel and presumablyh will hand the bargaining back to HTH Mel Wilinsky, executive vice president of PBH Management, could commen t beyond the news release. HTH founded by the late Herbert T. Hayashi, also owns the in
, an affiliate of Outrigger Enterprises, had been managing the 837-roomj hotel on Kalakaua Avenue onlysinced Jan. 1. HTH Corp. said one of its , will take over managemeny on Dec. 1. A statement issued Fridagy by both companies did not say why the changes wasbeing made. "After many months of working together, both HTH Corporation and PBH Management LLC have concludex that PacificBeach Corp. is better positionede to focus on this perfectly located hotel and to attainthe property'e long term business goals," said Robert "Mick" Minicola, HTH regional vice president said in the statement.
"We'll work togethedr to make sure therse are minimal interruptions and it will be business as usuaol for hotel guests. We have appreciatedr the flexibility and professionalism of PBHManagemenf LLC." The Pacific Beach Hotel has been involves in contentious contract negotiations with the International Longshore Workers Uniohn since the union narrowly won an electiob to organize its 480 workers in 2004. The ILWU steppedf up its pressure on the hotel this summer with pickets and letterx toprospective guests.
PBH took over the contract negotiationws when it assumed management of the hotel and presumablyh will hand the bargaining back to HTH Mel Wilinsky, executive vice president of PBH Management, could commen t beyond the news release. HTH founded by the late Herbert T. Hayashi, also owns the in
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Gender gap: Girls have the edge over boys - Business First of Buffalo:
epukaq.wordpress.com
"We see it in a broad What we've noticed is that female studentzs who apply here tend to havehigher grade-poinyt averages in high school," says Christophert Dearth, director of admissions at . "That has been the case for Overall in theUnited States, adolescent females outperformk adolescent males," says Karen Karmazin, assistanty superintendent for curriculum and instruction at the Granx Island Central School District. A new Business Firsr study corroboratestheir observations. Girls have a definite edge in the as shown by an analysis of WesternjNew York's top students and the region's standardizedf test scores. 1.
Girls outnumber boys in the rankw of elite students The 100 members ofBusinesx First's 2009 All-Western New York Academic announced earlier this week, are hailed as the best and brightes t high school seniors in the eight-county region. This year'sw honorees include 62 girls and38 boys. The imbalance is even more pronouncedf on theFirst Team, which consists of the 25 Academicv Team members judged to have the strongest records of classroon success, leadership skills and community involvement. Seventeenb of the 2009 First Teamers -- 68 percent -- are The Academic Team was chosen through a blinde process designed toremove bias.
The selectio n committee was given an edited summary ofeach candidate'e qualifications. Nominees' names and schools were removeed fromthose forms, as was any informatiob that might indicate gender or race. But the odds nonetheless favoree the selection of girleover boys. That's because Western New York high schools submittedx 254 female students forthe panel'x consideration, compared to 134 males. Each schoolp was limited to four a way of encouraging them to submit only theidrbest candidates. Twenty-five high schools nominated four females. Only five school s submitted four males. 2.
Girls outscore boys on most standardized exams Business First analyzedr a battery of 13 statewide testsz duringthe 2007-2008 academic year, includinh English, math and science exams in fourth and eighth social studies exams in fifth and eighth and Regents exams in English, science, global history and U.S. history. The girlas in Western New York's 98 school taken collectively, did better than boys on nine of thosed13 tests. The biggest disparity occurredr on the eighth gradeEnglish Two-thirds of the region's girls (66.8 demonstrated basic skills on that test last compared to 52.2 percent of the boys, a gap of 14.6 percentagre points.
(Any student who reaches Level 3 or 4 on an elementaryh or middle school or who scores 65 or bettee on aRegents exam, is definee as having basic skills.) Girlsd beat the boys by at least one percentages point on four other fourth grade English (a gap of 8.8 percentages points), eighth grade math (4.4 points), Regent s English (2.7 points) and Regents math (1.2 points). Therer were only two tests on which boys beat girlws by a margin of at least one eighth gradescience (1.5 points) and fourth gradew science (1.0 points). 3.
Girls outperform boys in most school districtas Business First used the same 13 tests to measurre the gender gap in all 98 Boys or girls were given a poin t each time they did better than the other side in reachinv either the basic orsuperior (Any student who hits Level 4 in elementary or middl school, or who scores 85 or highedr on a Regents exam, is said to have superiod skills.) The maximum possible score was 26 Females took the upper hand in 67 while males had the advantage in just 24. The remainingg seven were draws. Western New York's biggesft mismatch occurred inGrand Island, where girls won 21 pointas to the boys' five.
Other strongholds for girls were Alden, Letchworthh and Medina, where they earned 20 pointsx apiece, and Akron, Kenmore-Tonawanda and Silver Creeok at 19points each. Boys were strongesr in Cheektowaga-Sloan and Fillmore, where they came away with 19 of 26possibl points. Next were Andover, Clarence and LeRoy, wher e males won 18 points.
"We see it in a broad What we've noticed is that female studentzs who apply here tend to havehigher grade-poinyt averages in high school," says Christophert Dearth, director of admissions at . "That has been the case for Overall in theUnited States, adolescent females outperformk adolescent males," says Karen Karmazin, assistanty superintendent for curriculum and instruction at the Granx Island Central School District. A new Business Firsr study corroboratestheir observations. Girls have a definite edge in the as shown by an analysis of WesternjNew York's top students and the region's standardizedf test scores. 1.
Girls outnumber boys in the rankw of elite students The 100 members ofBusinesx First's 2009 All-Western New York Academic announced earlier this week, are hailed as the best and brightes t high school seniors in the eight-county region. This year'sw honorees include 62 girls and38 boys. The imbalance is even more pronouncedf on theFirst Team, which consists of the 25 Academicv Team members judged to have the strongest records of classroon success, leadership skills and community involvement. Seventeenb of the 2009 First Teamers -- 68 percent -- are The Academic Team was chosen through a blinde process designed toremove bias.
The selectio n committee was given an edited summary ofeach candidate'e qualifications. Nominees' names and schools were removeed fromthose forms, as was any informatiob that might indicate gender or race. But the odds nonetheless favoree the selection of girleover boys. That's because Western New York high schools submittedx 254 female students forthe panel'x consideration, compared to 134 males. Each schoolp was limited to four a way of encouraging them to submit only theidrbest candidates. Twenty-five high schools nominated four females. Only five school s submitted four males. 2.
Girls outscore boys on most standardized exams Business First analyzedr a battery of 13 statewide testsz duringthe 2007-2008 academic year, includinh English, math and science exams in fourth and eighth social studies exams in fifth and eighth and Regents exams in English, science, global history and U.S. history. The girlas in Western New York's 98 school taken collectively, did better than boys on nine of thosed13 tests. The biggest disparity occurredr on the eighth gradeEnglish Two-thirds of the region's girls (66.8 demonstrated basic skills on that test last compared to 52.2 percent of the boys, a gap of 14.6 percentagre points.
(Any student who reaches Level 3 or 4 on an elementaryh or middle school or who scores 65 or bettee on aRegents exam, is definee as having basic skills.) Girlsd beat the boys by at least one percentages point on four other fourth grade English (a gap of 8.8 percentages points), eighth grade math (4.4 points), Regent s English (2.7 points) and Regents math (1.2 points). Therer were only two tests on which boys beat girlws by a margin of at least one eighth gradescience (1.5 points) and fourth gradew science (1.0 points). 3.
Girls outperform boys in most school districtas Business First used the same 13 tests to measurre the gender gap in all 98 Boys or girls were given a poin t each time they did better than the other side in reachinv either the basic orsuperior (Any student who hits Level 4 in elementary or middl school, or who scores 85 or highedr on a Regents exam, is said to have superiod skills.) The maximum possible score was 26 Females took the upper hand in 67 while males had the advantage in just 24. The remainingg seven were draws. Western New York's biggesft mismatch occurred inGrand Island, where girls won 21 pointas to the boys' five.
Other strongholds for girls were Alden, Letchworthh and Medina, where they earned 20 pointsx apiece, and Akron, Kenmore-Tonawanda and Silver Creeok at 19points each. Boys were strongesr in Cheektowaga-Sloan and Fillmore, where they came away with 19 of 26possibl points. Next were Andover, Clarence and LeRoy, wher e males won 18 points.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
California settles with Kmart, sues Target - Denver Business Journal:
ymekovo.wordpress.com
The state’s attorney general, Jerry Brown, joined by districtg attorneys from manyCalifornia counties, including Alameda, Santqa Clara and Contra Costa, filerd a suit against Minneapolis-based Target (NYSE: TGT), saying it sent hazardouxs waste to various landfills in violation of state law. The suit is mean to stop the practices. In news reports, Target said it has been cooperatinyg withthe AG’s office for thre e years on this matter and that it is committeed to complying with all environmental laws.
Kmart, ownec by (NASDAQ: SHLD), agreed to a settlemengt that includescivil penalties, legal costs and some money to boosf protection of the environment in the Thomas Orloff, Robert James Fox and Dolores the DAs of Alameda, Contra San Mateo and Santa Clara counties respectively, joined Brownj in the suit against According to court papers, Targer has 180 facilities, including stores and in California.
The suit alleges Target threw out “ignitablr aerosol wastes” including propanew canisters, in a trash compactor in Alameda County on May 14 andMay 21, for
The state’s attorney general, Jerry Brown, joined by districtg attorneys from manyCalifornia counties, including Alameda, Santqa Clara and Contra Costa, filerd a suit against Minneapolis-based Target (NYSE: TGT), saying it sent hazardouxs waste to various landfills in violation of state law. The suit is mean to stop the practices. In news reports, Target said it has been cooperatinyg withthe AG’s office for thre e years on this matter and that it is committeed to complying with all environmental laws.
Kmart, ownec by (NASDAQ: SHLD), agreed to a settlemengt that includescivil penalties, legal costs and some money to boosf protection of the environment in the Thomas Orloff, Robert James Fox and Dolores the DAs of Alameda, Contra San Mateo and Santa Clara counties respectively, joined Brownj in the suit against According to court papers, Targer has 180 facilities, including stores and in California.
The suit alleges Target threw out “ignitablr aerosol wastes” including propanew canisters, in a trash compactor in Alameda County on May 14 andMay 21, for
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Shippers: What recession? - Houston Business Journal:
xoqylyjibo.wordpress.com
Ltd.’s unveiling of a remotely automatecd portin Busan, South Korea, and its plan to builcd three new terminals, includinfg a $208 million terminal at Dames Point, reflectg the company’s aggressive mentality in spits of the recession, said Roy Schleicher, senior director of trads development and global marketinfg for the . That and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd.’sx own plans for expansion show confidence inthe industry’s upturnj and cements their currengt and future operations in Hanjin’s “attitude is, ‘We’d be foolisj not to push things forward and get thingas done,’ ” Schleicher said.
“We thought they might want to slowthingsx down, but instead they want to push forwarde faster.” Hanjin’s revenue has fared better than ’s, with nearly 30 percent growth to about $8 billiobn in fiscal year 2008, compared with the same period a year ago. Despitw a drop in cargo volume, the sixth-largest shipping company’ss profits grew by more than 60 percent toabougt $198 million within the same But the international slump caughtf up with the company in the first quarter of 2009, when it reportee a $191 million net according to the Journa of Commerce. In response, the company pushed back some of its orderzfor ships.
Mitsui, which is the 15th-largesgt international shipping company, postedd a $1.3 billion profit in fiscal 2008, down nearly 32 percent. It blamex the decline in profits on the internationalptrade slump, high fuel prices and a strong yen. The company’sz revenue declined by about 4.1 percentr to $18.6 billion. Hanjin is opening a terminak in Spain in 2010 and another in Vietnam with Mitsui in 2011.
With the opening of its terminal in Jacksonvilledin 2012, Hanjin will have five terminalss in South Korea and eight Hanjin plans to expand its vesse capacity from about 375,000 twenty-foot equivalent units, or TEUs, to abouy 575,000 TEUs within the next few said William Rooney, managing director of the company’s American Similarly, Mitsui, the parenyt company of the Dames Point terminal operatod , is looking to spend millions of dollares to buy an overseas bulk shipping line. The slump has loweredf the valuation ofpotential acquisitions. The Japanese companyt plans to increase its fleet ofbulk carriers, tankerx and car carriers by 6.
5 percent to 740 shipsw by the end of this fiscall year. Mitsui plans also to open a new terminain Rotterdam, Netherlands, in late 2013. In the company has added three bringing two weekly services that open Jacksonvilles to new Asian markets and strengthenint Europeancontainer service. Mitsui’s servics calls on Busan and there will likelyu be an increase in trade betweenh Jacksonville and South Korea when Hanjinbegins service, Schleicher South Korea is a large exporter of consumer electronicds and a strong importer of consumer lumber and citrus.
Schleicher said he was impressedwith Hanjin’as technological capability after attending the opening of its Busan terminal May 21 with Rick the authority’s executive director. The terminal givesw a glimpse of how the remotely automated terminal planned in Jacksonvillewill operate. “I’vs never seen a terminal businesa as sophisticated asthis one,” Schleicher The Busan terminal can handl e up to 2 million TEUs annually, comparec with the planned Jacksonville termina that can handle about 800,0090 TEUs annually.
The Jacksonville terminap will be similar in that it will alsouse rail-mounte d gantry cranes to transport containerx between the yard and the ship, Rooney said. The crande travels on rails and is controlled remotely byan operator. The terminal at Dames Pointg will have 12 to15 rail-mountedf gantry cranes. One operator can handlew about three cranes ata time. Rooney said that the containers will be kept in a yard with sensore that will shut it down if they detecgthuman motion. He said the company hadn’t decided the exact productivitt rate Hanjin expects from the Jacksonville but it aimedfor world-class productivity levels, which is about 40 container moves per hour per Rooney said.
Hanjin is expected to meet withthe ’sx Local 1593 and 1408 in June or Jess Babich, president of ILA Clerks & Checkers Local 1593, said his union and ILA Local 1408 are negotiatinfg with the company on positions that Hanji wants its employees to handle but the unionb says it can handle instead. The union’s two gangs averagef about 33 moves per hour per crane when they unloaded a ship at the TraPa terminalMay 23. That is one move away from the company’s goal, which needs to be met before TraPac will allow the union to expand its Babich said.
TraPac was not available to confirm the rate of The agreement between TraPac and the union comes after the terminal operatof threatened to leave ifproductivity didn’f improve.
Ltd.’s unveiling of a remotely automatecd portin Busan, South Korea, and its plan to builcd three new terminals, includinfg a $208 million terminal at Dames Point, reflectg the company’s aggressive mentality in spits of the recession, said Roy Schleicher, senior director of trads development and global marketinfg for the . That and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd.’sx own plans for expansion show confidence inthe industry’s upturnj and cements their currengt and future operations in Hanjin’s “attitude is, ‘We’d be foolisj not to push things forward and get thingas done,’ ” Schleicher said.
“We thought they might want to slowthingsx down, but instead they want to push forwarde faster.” Hanjin’s revenue has fared better than ’s, with nearly 30 percent growth to about $8 billiobn in fiscal year 2008, compared with the same period a year ago. Despitw a drop in cargo volume, the sixth-largest shipping company’ss profits grew by more than 60 percent toabougt $198 million within the same But the international slump caughtf up with the company in the first quarter of 2009, when it reportee a $191 million net according to the Journa of Commerce. In response, the company pushed back some of its orderzfor ships.
Mitsui, which is the 15th-largesgt international shipping company, postedd a $1.3 billion profit in fiscal 2008, down nearly 32 percent. It blamex the decline in profits on the internationalptrade slump, high fuel prices and a strong yen. The company’sz revenue declined by about 4.1 percentr to $18.6 billion. Hanjin is opening a terminak in Spain in 2010 and another in Vietnam with Mitsui in 2011.
With the opening of its terminal in Jacksonvilledin 2012, Hanjin will have five terminalss in South Korea and eight Hanjin plans to expand its vesse capacity from about 375,000 twenty-foot equivalent units, or TEUs, to abouy 575,000 TEUs within the next few said William Rooney, managing director of the company’s American Similarly, Mitsui, the parenyt company of the Dames Point terminal operatod , is looking to spend millions of dollares to buy an overseas bulk shipping line. The slump has loweredf the valuation ofpotential acquisitions. The Japanese companyt plans to increase its fleet ofbulk carriers, tankerx and car carriers by 6.
5 percent to 740 shipsw by the end of this fiscall year. Mitsui plans also to open a new terminain Rotterdam, Netherlands, in late 2013. In the company has added three bringing two weekly services that open Jacksonvilles to new Asian markets and strengthenint Europeancontainer service. Mitsui’s servics calls on Busan and there will likelyu be an increase in trade betweenh Jacksonville and South Korea when Hanjinbegins service, Schleicher South Korea is a large exporter of consumer electronicds and a strong importer of consumer lumber and citrus.
Schleicher said he was impressedwith Hanjin’as technological capability after attending the opening of its Busan terminal May 21 with Rick the authority’s executive director. The terminal givesw a glimpse of how the remotely automated terminal planned in Jacksonvillewill operate. “I’vs never seen a terminal businesa as sophisticated asthis one,” Schleicher The Busan terminal can handl e up to 2 million TEUs annually, comparec with the planned Jacksonville termina that can handle about 800,0090 TEUs annually.
The Jacksonville terminap will be similar in that it will alsouse rail-mounte d gantry cranes to transport containerx between the yard and the ship, Rooney said. The crande travels on rails and is controlled remotely byan operator. The terminal at Dames Pointg will have 12 to15 rail-mountedf gantry cranes. One operator can handlew about three cranes ata time. Rooney said that the containers will be kept in a yard with sensore that will shut it down if they detecgthuman motion. He said the company hadn’t decided the exact productivitt rate Hanjin expects from the Jacksonville but it aimedfor world-class productivity levels, which is about 40 container moves per hour per Rooney said.
Hanjin is expected to meet withthe ’sx Local 1593 and 1408 in June or Jess Babich, president of ILA Clerks & Checkers Local 1593, said his union and ILA Local 1408 are negotiatinfg with the company on positions that Hanji wants its employees to handle but the unionb says it can handle instead. The union’s two gangs averagef about 33 moves per hour per crane when they unloaded a ship at the TraPa terminalMay 23. That is one move away from the company’s goal, which needs to be met before TraPac will allow the union to expand its Babich said.
TraPac was not available to confirm the rate of The agreement between TraPac and the union comes after the terminal operatof threatened to leave ifproductivity didn’f improve.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Silicon Valley / San Jose Business Journal:
jabire2389.blogspot.com
Museum of Contemporary Art, will assumwe her new responsibilities in San Josebeginning 15. She will oversee the museum’ds $5 million budget as well as a staff of32 full-timwe employees, 40 seasonal employees and 150 volunteers. Appointed in 2001 to the Scottsdaled post, Krane was formerly directorf of University of Colorado Art Museum in She succeedsDan Keegan, who resigned in Februaryg after seven years in the position to take over managementy of the Milwaukee Art Museum. Sunnyvale-based Liga Systems Inc. name d Jim Hogan to its board of directors.
Hogan has workedf in the semiconductor desigj and manufacturing industry for 33 serving as a senior executive in electronivdesign automation, semiconductor intellectual property, semiconductor equipmentf and fabrication companies. Hogan has held a varietyt of executive positions at severalpublic companies, including senior vice president of businessx development at Artisan Components and senior vice presidentt of business development and the seniorf member of the office of chie technologist at Cadence Design Systems Inc. San Jose-bases netCustomer Inc.
named Davird Hare chairman of the Hare has more than 30 years of enterprise softwaresupportr experience, most recently as the senior vice presiden t of global product support at Oraclee Corp. Before that he was group vice presiden t of support services atPeopleSoft Inc. Foster City-based Gileae Sciences Inc. named Dr. Richarfd J. Whitley to the board. He is a professor of microbiology, medicine and neurosurgery at the Universityy of Alabamaat Birmingham. Sunnyvale-based Aribz Inc. named Harriet Edelman to its boardeof directors. During a career that spanned more than 25 yearw at AvonProducts Inc.
, Edelman served in key leadership positions, including her most recent post as senio r vice president and chief information officer. Santaz Clara-based XenoPort Inc. named Per G. H. Lofbervg to its board of directors. Lofbery is currently chairman and a managing director of PharmaCapital Ventures. Until recently, he was president and chief executive officer of Merck Capita lVentures LLC.
Museum of Contemporary Art, will assumwe her new responsibilities in San Josebeginning 15. She will oversee the museum’ds $5 million budget as well as a staff of32 full-timwe employees, 40 seasonal employees and 150 volunteers. Appointed in 2001 to the Scottsdaled post, Krane was formerly directorf of University of Colorado Art Museum in She succeedsDan Keegan, who resigned in Februaryg after seven years in the position to take over managementy of the Milwaukee Art Museum. Sunnyvale-based Liga Systems Inc. name d Jim Hogan to its board of directors.
Hogan has workedf in the semiconductor desigj and manufacturing industry for 33 serving as a senior executive in electronivdesign automation, semiconductor intellectual property, semiconductor equipmentf and fabrication companies. Hogan has held a varietyt of executive positions at severalpublic companies, including senior vice president of businessx development at Artisan Components and senior vice presidentt of business development and the seniorf member of the office of chie technologist at Cadence Design Systems Inc. San Jose-bases netCustomer Inc.
named Davird Hare chairman of the Hare has more than 30 years of enterprise softwaresupportr experience, most recently as the senior vice presiden t of global product support at Oraclee Corp. Before that he was group vice presiden t of support services atPeopleSoft Inc. Foster City-based Gileae Sciences Inc. named Dr. Richarfd J. Whitley to the board. He is a professor of microbiology, medicine and neurosurgery at the Universityy of Alabamaat Birmingham. Sunnyvale-based Aribz Inc. named Harriet Edelman to its boardeof directors. During a career that spanned more than 25 yearw at AvonProducts Inc.
, Edelman served in key leadership positions, including her most recent post as senio r vice president and chief information officer. Santaz Clara-based XenoPort Inc. named Per G. H. Lofbervg to its board of directors. Lofbery is currently chairman and a managing director of PharmaCapital Ventures. Until recently, he was president and chief executive officer of Merck Capita lVentures LLC.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
BofA
ymekovo.wordpress.com
According to Dow Jones Reps. Edolphus Towns (D-N.Y.) and Dennias Kucinich (D-Ohio) have asked Lewis to appear Thursday before the House Committee on Oversighft andGovernment Reform. Towns and Kucinicyh have been investigating BofA’s acquisition of Merrill and the government’ s decision to give the Charlotte-based bank billionds of dollars intaxpayer aid. According to the news they want to know when BofA found outabouty Merrill’s weakened financial situation and how the role the federal governmentt played in BofA’s decision to complete the deal. Lawmakers also want to know what BofA has done with the federalk aid ithas received.
A BofA spokesman told Dow Jones the bank will respondr to thecommittee shortly. BofA bought the Merrillk on Jan. 1 for $29.1 billion. The deal resultede in BofA’s receiving an additionapl $20 billion in federalk funds under the Troublefd AssetRelief Program. BofA has received a total of $45 billionb in TARP funds. In February, Lewis testifies under oath before New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo that Federall Reserve Chairman Ben Bernankeand then-Treasury Secretary Henry Paulsoh pressured the bank not to discussa its increasingly troubled plan to buy Lewis said he believed Paulson and Bernanke were instructingy him to keep silent about Merrill’s financial problems.
Merrill lost $15.33 billion in the fourth quarter. Lewisx has been under intense pressure from BofA shareholders for not disclosingb the depthof Merrill’s financial difficulties before the His testimony was part of an investigationn launched by Cuomo into the $3.6 billiobn in bonuses Merrill paid out in December. Cuomo has contended BofA (NYSE:BAC) was aware of Merrill’s decision to award bonuses beforethe company’s fourth-quartedr losses were announced. The bank has said Merrilol was an independent business when the bonuseswere approved. Nortn Carolina’s attorney general and the Securities and Exchange Commission are also investigatingthe matter.
According to Dow Jones Reps. Edolphus Towns (D-N.Y.) and Dennias Kucinich (D-Ohio) have asked Lewis to appear Thursday before the House Committee on Oversighft andGovernment Reform. Towns and Kucinicyh have been investigating BofA’s acquisition of Merrill and the government’ s decision to give the Charlotte-based bank billionds of dollars intaxpayer aid. According to the news they want to know when BofA found outabouty Merrill’s weakened financial situation and how the role the federal governmentt played in BofA’s decision to complete the deal. Lawmakers also want to know what BofA has done with the federalk aid ithas received.
A BofA spokesman told Dow Jones the bank will respondr to thecommittee shortly. BofA bought the Merrillk on Jan. 1 for $29.1 billion. The deal resultede in BofA’s receiving an additionapl $20 billion in federalk funds under the Troublefd AssetRelief Program. BofA has received a total of $45 billionb in TARP funds. In February, Lewis testifies under oath before New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo that Federall Reserve Chairman Ben Bernankeand then-Treasury Secretary Henry Paulsoh pressured the bank not to discussa its increasingly troubled plan to buy Lewis said he believed Paulson and Bernanke were instructingy him to keep silent about Merrill’s financial problems.
Merrill lost $15.33 billion in the fourth quarter. Lewisx has been under intense pressure from BofA shareholders for not disclosingb the depthof Merrill’s financial difficulties before the His testimony was part of an investigationn launched by Cuomo into the $3.6 billiobn in bonuses Merrill paid out in December. Cuomo has contended BofA (NYSE:BAC) was aware of Merrill’s decision to award bonuses beforethe company’s fourth-quartedr losses were announced. The bank has said Merrilol was an independent business when the bonuseswere approved. Nortn Carolina’s attorney general and the Securities and Exchange Commission are also investigatingthe matter.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
International Business Machines Corporation Company Profile | IBM Company Information
viningocouqyl1601.blogspot.com
IBM is the largest information technologyu company inthe world, the world's largestr business and technology servicexs company, the world's largest consulting serviced organization, the world's largest information technologyg research organization, and the world's largest financier of informatiohn technology. IBM is an innovation-based business servintg the needs of enterprises andinstitutiones worldwide. It defines innovation as the intersectioj of business insight andtechnological invention.
IBM seeksw to deliver client success
IBM is the largest information technologyu company inthe world, the world's largestr business and technology servicexs company, the world's largest consulting serviced organization, the world's largest information technologyg research organization, and the world's largest financier of informatiohn technology. IBM is an innovation-based business servintg the needs of enterprises andinstitutiones worldwide. It defines innovation as the intersectioj of business insight andtechnological invention.
IBM seeksw to deliver client success
Friday, October 21, 2011
Easily Navigate In and Out of Full Screen Mode in OS X with this Shortcut - Lifehacker
sasutezew.blogspot.com
Easily Navigate In and Out of Full Screen Mode in OS X with this Shortcut Lifehacker Maybe you love Mac OS X Lion's new full screen mode or maybe you hate it. Either way, you'll be better off knowing this little shortcut because it can get you in and out of full screen mode fasterâ€"whether you want to be in it or not. ... Easily Navigate In And Out Of Full-Screen Mode In OS X |
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Magazine honors The Children's Hospital - Nashville Business Journal:
ogarawo.wordpress.com
The hospital qualified for the magazine’s “Honor Roll” in its 2009 editiomn of America’s Best Children’s Hospitals. The Honof Roll is reserved for hospitals that achievef ranking in all surveyedd specialty areas covered by the monthlynews Children’s ranked in the top 10 in six specialtyg areas, including cancer (No. 10), diabetes and endocrinw disorders (No. 10), digestive disorders (No. 5), neonatalp care (No. 8), orthopedics (No. 8) and respiratoryg disorders (No. 5). Last year, Children’s was rankeds No. 7 overall among the nation’s pediatric In 2007, it finished at No. 4.
Because of a change in how the reporttwas compiled, there was no general numericapl ranking this year.
The hospital qualified for the magazine’s “Honor Roll” in its 2009 editiomn of America’s Best Children’s Hospitals. The Honof Roll is reserved for hospitals that achievef ranking in all surveyedd specialty areas covered by the monthlynews Children’s ranked in the top 10 in six specialtyg areas, including cancer (No. 10), diabetes and endocrinw disorders (No. 10), digestive disorders (No. 5), neonatalp care (No. 8), orthopedics (No. 8) and respiratoryg disorders (No. 5). Last year, Children’s was rankeds No. 7 overall among the nation’s pediatric In 2007, it finished at No. 4.
Because of a change in how the reporttwas compiled, there was no general numericapl ranking this year.
Monday, October 17, 2011
U.S. home builder mood dips, but up in West - New Mexico Business Weekly:
ivyhofy.wordpress.com
The / Housing Market Indec declined one point to 15 in but rose two pointds in the Western regionto 14. “Thed outlook for home sales has improvesd somewhat inrecent months, due largely to implementatiob of the first-time home buyer tax credit and gainsa in housing affordability,” said NAHB Chairman Joe Robson, a home builder from Okla. “However, looking forward, home builders are facing a few including expiration of the tax credit at the end of a recent upturn ininteresg rates; and especially the continuing lack of credit for housing productiom loans.
” Two out of three of the HMI’zs component indexes were unchanged in including the index gaugingh current home sales, which held at 14, and the index gaugint traffic of prospective buyers, which held at 13. the index gauging expectations for the next six montha declined asingle point, to 26. The national declinr was driven entirely focused by builders in the which isthe nation’s largest housing There, the HMI declined 3 points to 15, whiler the rest of the regions poster gains. In addition to the gain in the the Northeast hada one-point gain to 20 and the Midwestr showed a one-point gain to 15.
The / Housing Market Indec declined one point to 15 in but rose two pointds in the Western regionto 14. “Thed outlook for home sales has improvesd somewhat inrecent months, due largely to implementatiob of the first-time home buyer tax credit and gainsa in housing affordability,” said NAHB Chairman Joe Robson, a home builder from Okla. “However, looking forward, home builders are facing a few including expiration of the tax credit at the end of a recent upturn ininteresg rates; and especially the continuing lack of credit for housing productiom loans.
” Two out of three of the HMI’zs component indexes were unchanged in including the index gaugingh current home sales, which held at 14, and the index gaugint traffic of prospective buyers, which held at 13. the index gauging expectations for the next six montha declined asingle point, to 26. The national declinr was driven entirely focused by builders in the which isthe nation’s largest housing There, the HMI declined 3 points to 15, whiler the rest of the regions poster gains. In addition to the gain in the the Northeast hada one-point gain to 20 and the Midwestr showed a one-point gain to 15.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
More than
grigoriynirim.blogspot.com
Combined with a farm of wormes in a largeplastic bin, they are compostedd into a soil perfect for organic farming. Worm farms might sound like the hobby ofa 13-year-oldd science nerd. At Emersion they’re just another way to do morewith less. The architecturs firm’s mission is to incorporate sustainability into all aspects of its business and buildtraditional architectural, interior design and engineering services around that focus. Four former partnersd at – Steve Simon Sapsford, Alan Hautman and Jim Cheng – set up the shop in July 2007. Emersionh comes from the wordas immerseand emerge.
“Ws immerse ourselves in a collective body of knowledge and then emergew out of that with a pathway to thefinakl solution,” said Chad Edwards, named a principakl in 2008. Today, 10 of Emersion’s 19 employeexs are former KZF associates. Three additional partners have been Besides expertise in some area of all employees have anentrepreneurial spirit, said Kimball, who handlesd business development. Each is responsible for buildingthe firm’s book of businese in the areas of learning, government, corporat e workplace and science and technology. The strategy appear to be working. In 2008, Emersion beat its sales goal of $2.5 bringing in close to $3.
8 million in business. A five-year, $7.5 milliobn design services contract with the has kept the firm busyat . Emerso n also is handling master planning foran 832-acre property that owns in New It’s redesigning the facade of the ’ds Procter Hall. And it also is completingf a project for the and has designex the new headquarters for the American Red The principals’ goal for 2009 is to add up to seven employeeas and complete $4.5 million worth of work. Sustainability is the linchpimn inthe firm’s success, its principals say. “Peopls use sustainable design as the salt and peppedr atthe end.
We want it to be the marinade, somethint that permeates the projects fromthe beginning,” Sapsford said. More than 75 percentg of Emersion’s work incorporates some aspectr ofgreen design. To illustrate that focus to clients, the partners got innovative with thei r leased space at thein Norwood. Althoughb on a slim budget, they were able to submift the space forthe ’s highest honor for existinb buildings, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design platinum certification. It also won a Cincinnati Desig n Award for theconverte space.
“It was critical that every dollar we spentg was available to more than one saidNikki Marksberry, marketing and businesws development manager. Emersion earnecd LEED credits for the amount of light that shines througjthe north-facing windows. It eliminated 15 light fixtures and replacee otherswith energy-efficient fixtures with motion and daylight Old cubicles were made to look new by use of coveringzs like craft paper and magazine racks. Drywall left from an old job was used to breaikup spaces. The firm used area rugs instead of carpey and wall coverings that couldebe removed. Aerators were installe d on faucets toconserve water.
Its conferenced table is a renewable resource, The partners even restructurex their lease to provide designated parkinb for employees who The project generated just 12 poundsof trash. “It’s the firsft time we’ve ever made a green effort,” said Pat Longo, executivre director of the HCBC. “It’s fun to have someon e see something webelieve in, in anothet light.” The firm’s efforts have garnered the attentionj of state leaders. Gov. Ted Strickland visitesd Emersion’s space prior to construction and applaudefthe HCBC’s efforts to accommodate its vision. The firm is workingy with Strickland assistant Brewster Rhoads andthe U.S.
Greenj Building Council to surveySouthwesr Ohio’s green efforts. Initial findings show that Cincinnatj could lead the state in sustainable said Edwards, vice chairman of USGBC’s local Emersion will work with the governor to establish Cincinnati as a centert for the practice. That attention brings good favor among clients likeRed Cross. “Theu really walk the talk, which means they have a vestedc interest as a firm of bringinyg that totheir clients,” said Steve Drefahl, chief operating officer. The agency hopes to earn LEED silvefr certification forits headquarters. Sustainabilityu goes hand-in-hand with the partners believe.
In December, Emersioj calculated the amount of savings insending e-mail Christmas cards and donated that amount to the Red It is donating time to develop a masterf plan for the city of Wilmington pendiny its loss of at the . Emersion’s plan couldd bring renewable-energy jobs to the city and helpit rebrand. “Wse like to be involved with somethingy that mightbe good,” Kimball said.
Combined with a farm of wormes in a largeplastic bin, they are compostedd into a soil perfect for organic farming. Worm farms might sound like the hobby ofa 13-year-oldd science nerd. At Emersion they’re just another way to do morewith less. The architecturs firm’s mission is to incorporate sustainability into all aspects of its business and buildtraditional architectural, interior design and engineering services around that focus. Four former partnersd at – Steve Simon Sapsford, Alan Hautman and Jim Cheng – set up the shop in July 2007. Emersionh comes from the wordas immerseand emerge.
“Ws immerse ourselves in a collective body of knowledge and then emergew out of that with a pathway to thefinakl solution,” said Chad Edwards, named a principakl in 2008. Today, 10 of Emersion’s 19 employeexs are former KZF associates. Three additional partners have been Besides expertise in some area of all employees have anentrepreneurial spirit, said Kimball, who handlesd business development. Each is responsible for buildingthe firm’s book of businese in the areas of learning, government, corporat e workplace and science and technology. The strategy appear to be working. In 2008, Emersion beat its sales goal of $2.5 bringing in close to $3.
8 million in business. A five-year, $7.5 milliobn design services contract with the has kept the firm busyat . Emerso n also is handling master planning foran 832-acre property that owns in New It’s redesigning the facade of the ’ds Procter Hall. And it also is completingf a project for the and has designex the new headquarters for the American Red The principals’ goal for 2009 is to add up to seven employeeas and complete $4.5 million worth of work. Sustainability is the linchpimn inthe firm’s success, its principals say. “Peopls use sustainable design as the salt and peppedr atthe end.
We want it to be the marinade, somethint that permeates the projects fromthe beginning,” Sapsford said. More than 75 percentg of Emersion’s work incorporates some aspectr ofgreen design. To illustrate that focus to clients, the partners got innovative with thei r leased space at thein Norwood. Althoughb on a slim budget, they were able to submift the space forthe ’s highest honor for existinb buildings, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design platinum certification. It also won a Cincinnati Desig n Award for theconverte space.
“It was critical that every dollar we spentg was available to more than one saidNikki Marksberry, marketing and businesws development manager. Emersion earnecd LEED credits for the amount of light that shines througjthe north-facing windows. It eliminated 15 light fixtures and replacee otherswith energy-efficient fixtures with motion and daylight Old cubicles were made to look new by use of coveringzs like craft paper and magazine racks. Drywall left from an old job was used to breaikup spaces. The firm used area rugs instead of carpey and wall coverings that couldebe removed. Aerators were installe d on faucets toconserve water.
Its conferenced table is a renewable resource, The partners even restructurex their lease to provide designated parkinb for employees who The project generated just 12 poundsof trash. “It’s the firsft time we’ve ever made a green effort,” said Pat Longo, executivre director of the HCBC. “It’s fun to have someon e see something webelieve in, in anothet light.” The firm’s efforts have garnered the attentionj of state leaders. Gov. Ted Strickland visitesd Emersion’s space prior to construction and applaudefthe HCBC’s efforts to accommodate its vision. The firm is workingy with Strickland assistant Brewster Rhoads andthe U.S.
Greenj Building Council to surveySouthwesr Ohio’s green efforts. Initial findings show that Cincinnatj could lead the state in sustainable said Edwards, vice chairman of USGBC’s local Emersion will work with the governor to establish Cincinnati as a centert for the practice. That attention brings good favor among clients likeRed Cross. “Theu really walk the talk, which means they have a vestedc interest as a firm of bringinyg that totheir clients,” said Steve Drefahl, chief operating officer. The agency hopes to earn LEED silvefr certification forits headquarters. Sustainabilityu goes hand-in-hand with the partners believe.
In December, Emersioj calculated the amount of savings insending e-mail Christmas cards and donated that amount to the Red It is donating time to develop a masterf plan for the city of Wilmington pendiny its loss of at the . Emersion’s plan couldd bring renewable-energy jobs to the city and helpit rebrand. “Wse like to be involved with somethingy that mightbe good,” Kimball said.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Avail Media, TVN Entertainment merge - Washington Business Journal:
mozybyd.wordpress.com
Sherman Oaks, Calif.-based TVN and Reston-basecd Avail Media, which has transport rights from top nationak programmers likeand , will help contenrt owners and service providers deliver The combined company will make sure contenty is provisioned, packaged, protected and deliveredr across multiple view platforms and multiple distribution partners. Investord include Columbia Capital, Novaok Biddle Venture Partners, , Pioneer Venturees and the National Rural Telecommunications Terms of the merger werenot disclosed. “We are at the righy time at theright place. The whole digitalk media spaceis changing,” said Ramu Potarazu, CEO of the newly createdf company and former president of .
“There are a couplre types of content that gets providedtoday -- one is linear, or regulaer channels. The other is video on The whole platformis changing. Because of all the conteny relationshipswe have, access to 45 millioj subscribers in the U.S., and 150 service providers like AT& T and Verizon, we are well situated to continuee in this space to deliver services and products that let service providers be successful.” The combined 165-personm company will retain its managemenrt headquarters in the Virginia or Marylan d area, said Potarazu, since its major investors are located in the D.C. area. Some managemen will be in the LosAngele area, he said.
The companies are lookingv into a name change and will spenxd some time to see what the righft name is as the merger goes The combined company will be able to delivef content from more than 200contentr partners, which include Hollywood movie studios, cable networkxs and independent content producers to more than 46 millionn homes and 120 million consumers.
Sherman Oaks, Calif.-based TVN and Reston-basecd Avail Media, which has transport rights from top nationak programmers likeand , will help contenrt owners and service providers deliver The combined company will make sure contenty is provisioned, packaged, protected and deliveredr across multiple view platforms and multiple distribution partners. Investord include Columbia Capital, Novaok Biddle Venture Partners, , Pioneer Venturees and the National Rural Telecommunications Terms of the merger werenot disclosed. “We are at the righy time at theright place. The whole digitalk media spaceis changing,” said Ramu Potarazu, CEO of the newly createdf company and former president of .
“There are a couplre types of content that gets providedtoday -- one is linear, or regulaer channels. The other is video on The whole platformis changing. Because of all the conteny relationshipswe have, access to 45 millioj subscribers in the U.S., and 150 service providers like AT& T and Verizon, we are well situated to continuee in this space to deliver services and products that let service providers be successful.” The combined 165-personm company will retain its managemenrt headquarters in the Virginia or Marylan d area, said Potarazu, since its major investors are located in the D.C. area. Some managemen will be in the LosAngele area, he said.
The companies are lookingv into a name change and will spenxd some time to see what the righft name is as the merger goes The combined company will be able to delivef content from more than 200contentr partners, which include Hollywood movie studios, cable networkxs and independent content producers to more than 46 millionn homes and 120 million consumers.
Monday, October 10, 2011
The dropout paradox - UT The Daily Texan
ywyjihu.wordpress.com
The dropout paradox UT The Daily Texan And this illustrates higher education's dropout paradox: that a university's poster children of success may be the same poster children that critics point to when those individuals are reduced to a number or a percentage of the “did not graduate†... |
Saturday, October 8, 2011
WTF! Teen Babysitter Stole Cash From Neighbor To Fund Porn Addiction! (PHOTOS) - Global Grind
mytyhona.wordpress.com
Global Grind | WTF! Teen Babysitter Stole Cash From Neighbor To Fund Porn Addiction! (PHOTOS) Global Grind Amanda Owens, an 18-year-old girl was so addicted to porn that she snuck into her neighbor's house to steal money in order to feed her porn addiction. We can't write this stuff! Check out the details below. A teenage girl is accused of breaking into a ... Minn. woman, 18, accused of robbing neighbor's home for money to feed her porn ... Teen Girl Says Porn Addiction Led To Burglary Teen Faces $20000 Fine - Busted in Dog Door Burglary, Amanda Rose Owens Claims ... |
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Torchmark responds to ratings downgrade - Business First of Columbus:
http://being-katie.com/being-on-facebook.html
McKinney-based Torchmark (NYSE: TMK) said it has the capacit y to absorb any reduction in capital andmaintain “adequate statutoryt capital” measures. Last week, Fitch warned that Torchmarkm has $100 million in debt due in Augustand $274 milliojn in commercial paper outstanding. In response, Torchmark said it has cut commerciapl paper outstandingby $41 million to $233 million on June 5. Fitcb on Friday downgraded Torchmark based on therating company’s belief that Torchmark is exposed to the tumultuousa financial markets.
Fitch said it was optimistic that Torchmark subsidiarieas are reporting strong but warned about investmentx that may be necessary to offsety any reductionsin capital. On Monday, Torchmark management staterd that it has the capacity to absornb any capital adjustments that maybe necessary, and it does not expect those levels to reach a range that is threatening in
McKinney-based Torchmark (NYSE: TMK) said it has the capacit y to absorb any reduction in capital andmaintain “adequate statutoryt capital” measures. Last week, Fitch warned that Torchmarkm has $100 million in debt due in Augustand $274 milliojn in commercial paper outstanding. In response, Torchmark said it has cut commerciapl paper outstandingby $41 million to $233 million on June 5. Fitcb on Friday downgraded Torchmark based on therating company’s belief that Torchmark is exposed to the tumultuousa financial markets.
Fitch said it was optimistic that Torchmark subsidiarieas are reporting strong but warned about investmentx that may be necessary to offsety any reductionsin capital. On Monday, Torchmark management staterd that it has the capacity to absornb any capital adjustments that maybe necessary, and it does not expect those levels to reach a range that is threatening in
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Koster balks at GM reorganization agreement - Washington Business Journal:
onesawava.wordpress.com
Koster said GM’s bankruptcy agreement will not extenfd product liability requirements for the company thattakes GM’s place. That means customers who bought GM cars beforw the bankruptcy settlement lose protections unded lemon laws and product liability Koster said. Koster also objected to provisions that allow a reorganizef GM to alter dealership contracts with no sayfrom “The current agreement is terribly unfairf to these dealership owners, many of whom have been loyall GM dealers for decadexs and have invested their life savings in these family Koster said in a Monday release.
“It is unconscionable to forcre a dealership to waive its rightsw under Missouri law simply becaused GMhas floundered.” Several other attorneysa general from other states, including Kansas, have raised similar objections.
Koster said GM’s bankruptcy agreement will not extenfd product liability requirements for the company thattakes GM’s place. That means customers who bought GM cars beforw the bankruptcy settlement lose protections unded lemon laws and product liability Koster said. Koster also objected to provisions that allow a reorganizef GM to alter dealership contracts with no sayfrom “The current agreement is terribly unfairf to these dealership owners, many of whom have been loyall GM dealers for decadexs and have invested their life savings in these family Koster said in a Monday release.
“It is unconscionable to forcre a dealership to waive its rightsw under Missouri law simply becaused GMhas floundered.” Several other attorneysa general from other states, including Kansas, have raised similar objections.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Jean-Francois Jacques sent down - ESPN
erofeyporgrinin.blogspot.com
CBC.ca | Jean-Francois Jacques sent down ESPN Suspended Anaheim Ducks left wing Jean-Francois Jacques has been sent to the minors after clearing waivers. For the latest news on the Ducks, check out ESPNLosAngeles.com's hockey blog. Anaheim sent Jacques to Syracuse of the AHL on Thursday. ... Suspended Anaheim Ducks LW Jean-Fr! ancois Jacques clears waivers, assigned to ... AHL to make Jacques, Sestito sit out games Ducks send Jacques to AHL; Rodney waived |
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Libyan fighters reinforce siege of Sirte - The Guardian
qiguzewy.wordpress.com
The Guardian | Libyan fighters reinforce siege of Sirte The Guardian The provisional government in Tripoli will ask Algeria to explain how pro-Gaddafi forces crossed the border to attack its forces on Saturday, the Libyan army chief spokesman has said. Eight were killed in the attack near Ghadames. ... |
Friday, September 23, 2011
B&S College offers tuition aid to jobless - Business First of Buffalo:
gavrilovaefivu.blogspot.com
The Retraining Opportunity Grant, which begins this will help defraytuition costs, said Jeff Tredo, directore of Western New York colleges of Bryant & To qualify, new students must show such as official unemploymenft documents, that they have been laid off from a job withijn the past 12 months, Tredo said. Qualified part-time meanwhile, can receive up to $500 per The amount awarded each semester is determined byeach person’d demonstrated financial need, Tredo said.
The grant is the college’s way of helping out-of-work individuals get back to schoolp to learnnew skills, Tredo Because state and federal financial aid is often determinedx by previous years’ income, new studentsd who have recently lost a job may not get as much financiap help as they actually he said. “We really designed this specifically to address aneed that’sd out there,” Tredo said. “This provides some assistance fromthe college’sx point of view.” The private which has local campuses in Amherst, Orchard Park and downtown Buffalo, has set asided a total of $500,000 in retrainingf grants for qualified students.
The Retraining Opportunity Grant, which begins this will help defraytuition costs, said Jeff Tredo, directore of Western New York colleges of Bryant & To qualify, new students must show such as official unemploymenft documents, that they have been laid off from a job withijn the past 12 months, Tredo said. Qualified part-time meanwhile, can receive up to $500 per The amount awarded each semester is determined byeach person’d demonstrated financial need, Tredo said.
The grant is the college’s way of helping out-of-work individuals get back to schoolp to learnnew skills, Tredo Because state and federal financial aid is often determinedx by previous years’ income, new studentsd who have recently lost a job may not get as much financiap help as they actually he said. “We really designed this specifically to address aneed that’sd out there,” Tredo said. “This provides some assistance fromthe college’sx point of view.” The private which has local campuses in Amherst, Orchard Park and downtown Buffalo, has set asided a total of $500,000 in retrainingf grants for qualified students.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
The danger of politicians backing high risk startups - GigaOm
husolumiz.wordpress.com
The danger of politicians backing high risk startups GigaOm In light of the Bloomberg scoop, I'm resurfacing the bulk of a story I wrote earlier this month on “The danger of politicians linking with high risk startupsâ€: Solyndra's high-profile flameout is getting an unusual amount of attention, not only because ... |
Monday, September 19, 2011
Brywood Centre construction will start later in the summer - Charlotte Business Journal:
ovaluleq.wordpress.com
The approved Tri-Land’s plan to redevelop the at 63rd Streeyt and Blue Ridge Cutofflast month. The approved $5.6 million in TIF reimbursements forthe $30.7 million projecrt in June 2008. Tri-Land is based in Ill. “We are very excited to be movint forward with thisredevelopment project,” Tri-Land Executive Vice Presidentf Hugh Robinson said in a release. “We have had a greatg relationship with the city and the two district council Terry Riley andCindy Circo, throughout this We look forward to deliveriny a renewed, high-quality project to this great community.
” Redevelopmentt of the 183,000-square-foot center will include a new facade, update signage and lighting, landscaping upgrades, expansion of a Pricew Chopper supermarket that anchors the centee and increased pad-site availabilityh along 63rd Street. Tri-Landx also hopes to announce a new anchor tenant soon forthe 37-year-olx center. Tri-Land owns and manages more than 2.8 millionm square feet of retail space inthe Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions of the It specializes in acquiring and revitalizing distressed and undervalued communityh centers ranging from 100,000 square feet to 750,000 squarwe feet.
The approved Tri-Land’s plan to redevelop the at 63rd Streeyt and Blue Ridge Cutofflast month. The approved $5.6 million in TIF reimbursements forthe $30.7 million projecrt in June 2008. Tri-Land is based in Ill. “We are very excited to be movint forward with thisredevelopment project,” Tri-Land Executive Vice Presidentf Hugh Robinson said in a release. “We have had a greatg relationship with the city and the two district council Terry Riley andCindy Circo, throughout this We look forward to deliveriny a renewed, high-quality project to this great community.
” Redevelopmentt of the 183,000-square-foot center will include a new facade, update signage and lighting, landscaping upgrades, expansion of a Pricew Chopper supermarket that anchors the centee and increased pad-site availabilityh along 63rd Street. Tri-Landx also hopes to announce a new anchor tenant soon forthe 37-year-olx center. Tri-Land owns and manages more than 2.8 millionm square feet of retail space inthe Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions of the It specializes in acquiring and revitalizing distressed and undervalued communityh centers ranging from 100,000 square feet to 750,000 squarwe feet.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Feldman sells stake in Colonie Center for $4.1M - Wichita Business Journal:
ikefageze.blogspot.com
The Long Island company announced Thursday that it has sold its remaininv sharesto , a pension fund adviset in Chicago. Feldman, which also managede the mall, made $4.1 millio from the sale. That means the Heitman firm is now the sole ownetr ofthe 1.2 million-square-foot mall. Heitman already had a 75 percengt stake inthe mall, purchased in 2006 for $38 millionb in cash. At the time, Heitmabn also gave Feldman a loan to continue pumpingy money into the mall as Feldmam gave the propertya face-lift and added new storew and space. In the end, it cost $110 million to renovatwe Colonie Center to lure chains suchas , and a 13-screebn Regal cinema. Feldman paid $82.
2 million for Colonie Centere inFebruary 2005. Feldman, in a short said the deal to sell its remaininfg stake in the Colonie mall closeds onMay 28. Feldman says it expects to have a writedowjn as a result of the The announcement is the latest in a string of bad developmentssfor Feldman. In January, a deal to sell threew malls collapsed. The company has also been hurt by the pushing some major tenants to close and file forbankruptcyg protection. Feldman had a net loss of $78.9 million during the second quarterof 2008, its most recent regulatory filing. In that quarter, the company had a $15.e million impairment loss on Colonie Center.
The compant has said it may have to file for bankruptct ifit can’t refinance its debt. Last the New York Stock Exchange de-listed Feldman’es stock. Feldman is now trading on the pink sheets/over-the-counter markety (OTC: FMLP) at 16 cents a share.
The Long Island company announced Thursday that it has sold its remaininv sharesto , a pension fund adviset in Chicago. Feldman, which also managede the mall, made $4.1 millio from the sale. That means the Heitman firm is now the sole ownetr ofthe 1.2 million-square-foot mall. Heitman already had a 75 percengt stake inthe mall, purchased in 2006 for $38 millionb in cash. At the time, Heitmabn also gave Feldman a loan to continue pumpingy money into the mall as Feldmam gave the propertya face-lift and added new storew and space. In the end, it cost $110 million to renovatwe Colonie Center to lure chains suchas , and a 13-screebn Regal cinema. Feldman paid $82.
2 million for Colonie Centere inFebruary 2005. Feldman, in a short said the deal to sell its remaininfg stake in the Colonie mall closeds onMay 28. Feldman says it expects to have a writedowjn as a result of the The announcement is the latest in a string of bad developmentssfor Feldman. In January, a deal to sell threew malls collapsed. The company has also been hurt by the pushing some major tenants to close and file forbankruptcyg protection. Feldman had a net loss of $78.9 million during the second quarterof 2008, its most recent regulatory filing. In that quarter, the company had a $15.e million impairment loss on Colonie Center.
The compant has said it may have to file for bankruptct ifit can’t refinance its debt. Last the New York Stock Exchange de-listed Feldman’es stock. Feldman is now trading on the pink sheets/over-the-counter markety (OTC: FMLP) at 16 cents a share.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Former Scotts chief dies at 72 - Business First of Columbus:
ramoledef.blogspot.com
The Marysville-based company said Charles who served as chairman and CEO from 1996 to died this weekend after anextended Berger, the company said, retired after leading Scotts whilew it doubled in size and made key strategic moves, including the acquisition of the Ortho businessw and the launch of its Scottx LawnService operation. “In our 140-year history, Chuck was one of our greatest someone who helped us chart a new course and is largelyt responsible for the company as itexistss today,” CEO Jim Hagedorn said in a statement. Hagedorn took over as CEO upon Berger’s retirement.
Before arriving at Scotts, Berger spent more than threde decadesat (NYSE:HNZ), where he managed the ketchul brand and served in several executive posts, the company A father of Berger maintained homes with his wife Jane in New York Sands Point, N.Y., and Naples, Fla.
The Marysville-based company said Charles who served as chairman and CEO from 1996 to died this weekend after anextended Berger, the company said, retired after leading Scotts whilew it doubled in size and made key strategic moves, including the acquisition of the Ortho businessw and the launch of its Scottx LawnService operation. “In our 140-year history, Chuck was one of our greatest someone who helped us chart a new course and is largelyt responsible for the company as itexistss today,” CEO Jim Hagedorn said in a statement. Hagedorn took over as CEO upon Berger’s retirement.
Before arriving at Scotts, Berger spent more than threde decadesat (NYSE:HNZ), where he managed the ketchul brand and served in several executive posts, the company A father of Berger maintained homes with his wife Jane in New York Sands Point, N.Y., and Naples, Fla.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Houston Business Journal: Starting a Business : Business Advice
esivyjifag.wordpress.com
In order to understand why a down markegt creates so many opportunitiesw for astartup company, you first need to understand why a bull markety makes it so difficult to succeed. In a bull the cost of everything skyrockets. As more capital becomes so doesmore competition. New startups spring up competingfor talent, marketinfg opportunities and customers. At one time you were the only game intown - now you'vd got three guys pretending to do exactly what you do - all the whilde increasing the cost of running your business. Conversely, a bear market drives the cost ofeverything downward.
Companies go into a losing sight of their growth goals and in some cases falling into bankruptcy The sudden drop in demand forces the prices of everything sharply creating a perfect storm fora well-prepared company to creates unprecedented gains. Before you get your offense you need to get your defense lined up and that meanas getting very leanvery quickly. The problem with coming off of a bull markety isthat we're not used to pullingb back. We're used to knowing that the next year will be even biggeer thanthe last, so we plan and spend accordingly. This time we've got to create a very differenty plan.
This plan is abouft reducing staff, marketing and all possible operating costz you have before circumstances force such movezsupon you. Make no mistake, this is goin g to suck. Nobody is ever excitex about downshifting, especially after a good run, but it's betterd than sending the entire compang home becauseyou weren't ready to make A healthy approach is to plan for a very long Assume you'll lose more sales than you can possiblyh forecast. Think of your business in terms of what it is your companhy can operate on and still keep thelightse on. You can always add more resourcesx if you need them butyou won't be able to make up for overshootinhg your income forecasts.
Kicking butt in a down market isn'tt just about crawling up in a hole and waitinvfor spring. It's about getting lean so you can get focusexd onhunting again. Your competition may not react as quickly asyou did, whic is great news for you. Chances are theid lack of planning is putting the compant in a tight Their senior management is more concernefd about making payroll thanmaking acquisitions. Their foot soldiers are more worried about whethet or not they are going to have jobs than whethetr their customers are as happy as theycan be. And that'sw where you swoop righty in.
There is never a more cost effectiver time to attack the competitionm and take over their customers than in a down The cost of advertising plummets as the competitiomnpulls back. The challenge of getting media attention dwindlea as fewer companies are vyingfor attention. And the cost of wooiny customers drops as sales representatives go into a defensive In some cases you may not even have to attackotheir customers. As your competition pullw back or goes outof business, you can let their customerw come to you. Try that in a bull market.
In order to understand why a down markegt creates so many opportunitiesw for astartup company, you first need to understand why a bull markety makes it so difficult to succeed. In a bull the cost of everything skyrockets. As more capital becomes so doesmore competition. New startups spring up competingfor talent, marketinfg opportunities and customers. At one time you were the only game intown - now you'vd got three guys pretending to do exactly what you do - all the whilde increasing the cost of running your business. Conversely, a bear market drives the cost ofeverything downward.
Companies go into a losing sight of their growth goals and in some cases falling into bankruptcy The sudden drop in demand forces the prices of everything sharply creating a perfect storm fora well-prepared company to creates unprecedented gains. Before you get your offense you need to get your defense lined up and that meanas getting very leanvery quickly. The problem with coming off of a bull markety isthat we're not used to pullingb back. We're used to knowing that the next year will be even biggeer thanthe last, so we plan and spend accordingly. This time we've got to create a very differenty plan.
This plan is abouft reducing staff, marketing and all possible operating costz you have before circumstances force such movezsupon you. Make no mistake, this is goin g to suck. Nobody is ever excitex about downshifting, especially after a good run, but it's betterd than sending the entire compang home becauseyou weren't ready to make A healthy approach is to plan for a very long Assume you'll lose more sales than you can possiblyh forecast. Think of your business in terms of what it is your companhy can operate on and still keep thelightse on. You can always add more resourcesx if you need them butyou won't be able to make up for overshootinhg your income forecasts.
Kicking butt in a down market isn'tt just about crawling up in a hole and waitinvfor spring. It's about getting lean so you can get focusexd onhunting again. Your competition may not react as quickly asyou did, whic is great news for you. Chances are theid lack of planning is putting the compant in a tight Their senior management is more concernefd about making payroll thanmaking acquisitions. Their foot soldiers are more worried about whethet or not they are going to have jobs than whethetr their customers are as happy as theycan be. And that'sw where you swoop righty in.
There is never a more cost effectiver time to attack the competitionm and take over their customers than in a down The cost of advertising plummets as the competitiomnpulls back. The challenge of getting media attention dwindlea as fewer companies are vyingfor attention. And the cost of wooiny customers drops as sales representatives go into a defensive In some cases you may not even have to attackotheir customers. As your competition pullw back or goes outof business, you can let their customerw come to you. Try that in a bull market.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Santa Cruz named epic surf spot by mag - Business First of Columbus:
ysynut.wordpress.com
In the July issue of Surfer, the Centraol California beach resort and college town was describecdas “the dividing line between rugged, non-pretentiousa NorCal and suburban, image-conscious SoCal, and that dichotomy is Geographical generalizations aside, the magazined said the rugged coastline of Santa Cruz County provides both beauty and surfinfg challenges, making the area the “de factko capital of coldwater surfing.
” Despitw its “astronomical” cost of living, the magazine praised its artisticx bent, proximity to wineries and naturaol beauty as reasons for surfers around the country to bail on thei r usual surfing destinations and endeavor to become the Big Kahuna at Steamer Lane or Pleasurse Point in Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz was in elitde company. Other California surf towns thatmade Surfer’s Top 10 list were all in Southerjn California: Encinitas in third place, San Clementre in the fifth spot, and Malibhu in seventh place.
In the July issue of Surfer, the Centraol California beach resort and college town was describecdas “the dividing line between rugged, non-pretentiousa NorCal and suburban, image-conscious SoCal, and that dichotomy is Geographical generalizations aside, the magazined said the rugged coastline of Santa Cruz County provides both beauty and surfinfg challenges, making the area the “de factko capital of coldwater surfing.
” Despitw its “astronomical” cost of living, the magazine praised its artisticx bent, proximity to wineries and naturaol beauty as reasons for surfers around the country to bail on thei r usual surfing destinations and endeavor to become the Big Kahuna at Steamer Lane or Pleasurse Point in Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz was in elitde company. Other California surf towns thatmade Surfer’s Top 10 list were all in Southerjn California: Encinitas in third place, San Clementre in the fifth spot, and Malibhu in seventh place.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Denver commuters 'Bike to Work' Wednesday - Denver Business Journal:
stelauguqdinec.blogspot.com
Denver Mayor John Hickenloopef is among those who expects to use pedal power to get tothe office. He plans to use the Cherrhy Creek bike path as part ofhis "Bike commuting is just plain Hickenlooper said in a statement. "It’s also better for the environment, good for your saves money on gas and is a refreshinbg change fromthe stop-and-go nature of rush-houtr traffic." Almost 36,000 people rode bikes during last year's Bike to Work Day, traveling an estimated 655,152 said. Denver Public Works will open a Bike to Work Day Breakfas Station at Civic Center Parkfrom 6:30 to 9 a.m. Wednesday, offerin g free samples from vendorsdand exhibits.
Authorities are asking both motorists and bicyclists to use extra caution Wednesday because ofthe larger-than-usuak number of two-wheeled vehicles on area commuter routes. For more visit .
Denver Mayor John Hickenloopef is among those who expects to use pedal power to get tothe office. He plans to use the Cherrhy Creek bike path as part ofhis "Bike commuting is just plain Hickenlooper said in a statement. "It’s also better for the environment, good for your saves money on gas and is a refreshinbg change fromthe stop-and-go nature of rush-houtr traffic." Almost 36,000 people rode bikes during last year's Bike to Work Day, traveling an estimated 655,152 said. Denver Public Works will open a Bike to Work Day Breakfas Station at Civic Center Parkfrom 6:30 to 9 a.m. Wednesday, offerin g free samples from vendorsdand exhibits.
Authorities are asking both motorists and bicyclists to use extra caution Wednesday because ofthe larger-than-usuak number of two-wheeled vehicles on area commuter routes. For more visit .
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Consumer loan delinquencies rise to record high - Business First of Buffalo:
idozxun.blogspot.com
The industry group blames the recor wave of job losses as amajor factor. More than 2 millioj Americans lost their jobs in the first threde months of the Six million have lost their jobs since therecession “Delinquencies won’t improve until companies start hiring agaim and we see a significant economiv turnaround,” ABA chief economist James Chessen said in a news The ABA defines delinquency as a payment that is 30 days or more The composite delinquency rate among eighf types of closed-end installment loan categories rose to 3.23 percenf of all accounts, from 3.22 percent in the previousw quarter. Bank card delinquencies rose to 4.75 percent of all from 4.
52 percent in the previouws quarter. However, the balances on thosre delinquent accountsrose dramatically, to 6.6 percentt of the value of all outstandinvg bank card debt – markinv a new record – from 5.52 Chessen said the unemployed may be usinv bank cards to bridge a temporarhy income gap, especially with less home equituy to fall back on as housing pricesd continue to fall. Home equity loan delinquencies increaseddto 3.52 percent from 3.03 Property improvement loan delinquenciea decreased to 1.46 percent from 1.75 Indirect auto loan delinquencies decreased to 3.42 percent from 3.53 Direct auto loan delinquenciea increased to 3.01 percent from 2.
03 Marine loan delinquencies decreased to 2.04 percent from 2.35 RV loan delinquencies increased to 1.52 percen t from 1.38 percent. Mobile home loan delinquenciees increasedto 3.7 percent from 2.96 percent. Personal loan delinquencies increasexto 3.47 percent from 2.88 percent.
The industry group blames the recor wave of job losses as amajor factor. More than 2 millioj Americans lost their jobs in the first threde months of the Six million have lost their jobs since therecession “Delinquencies won’t improve until companies start hiring agaim and we see a significant economiv turnaround,” ABA chief economist James Chessen said in a news The ABA defines delinquency as a payment that is 30 days or more The composite delinquency rate among eighf types of closed-end installment loan categories rose to 3.23 percenf of all accounts, from 3.22 percent in the previousw quarter. Bank card delinquencies rose to 4.75 percent of all from 4.
52 percent in the previouws quarter. However, the balances on thosre delinquent accountsrose dramatically, to 6.6 percentt of the value of all outstandinvg bank card debt – markinv a new record – from 5.52 Chessen said the unemployed may be usinv bank cards to bridge a temporarhy income gap, especially with less home equituy to fall back on as housing pricesd continue to fall. Home equity loan delinquencies increaseddto 3.52 percent from 3.03 Property improvement loan delinquenciea decreased to 1.46 percent from 1.75 Indirect auto loan delinquencies decreased to 3.42 percent from 3.53 Direct auto loan delinquenciea increased to 3.01 percent from 2.
03 Marine loan delinquencies decreased to 2.04 percent from 2.35 RV loan delinquencies increased to 1.52 percen t from 1.38 percent. Mobile home loan delinquenciees increasedto 3.7 percent from 2.96 percent. Personal loan delinquencies increasexto 3.47 percent from 2.88 percent.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Survey: Firms struggle to fill jobs - Business First of Louisville:
polinaagyvtiwu.blogspot.com
The company says 30 percentf of employers worldwide are struggling to findqualifie personnel. Positions in the skilled trades, sales, technical work and engineeringg remain the most difficult for employers to fill Manpower surveyednearly 39,00o employers in 33 countries and territories to gaugew their ability to find the talent they The 10 hardest jobs to as reported by 2,000 U.S. employers in 2009, are: 1. 2. Nurses. 3. Skilled/manual trades. 4. 5. Sales representatives. 6. Technicians. 7. Drivers. 8. Information-technologyy staff. 9. Laborers. 10. Machinist/machine operators. Even with U.S.
unemploymentr at or near record levels inmany areas, Manpower’s researcbh highlights the problems many employersw have in finding individuals with the righf combination of job-specific skills, experience and “In the four years we have performecd this research, the same positions appear on the list agaih and again,” says Jonas Prising, Manpower’s president for the Americas. “Despitw the current economic instability and high there are still skills thatthe U.S. work force seems to lack.” The U.S. findingd are part of a Manpower global study that surveyed morethan 39,0009 employers across 33 countries and territories in January.
Wisconsin-baserd Manpower (NYSE:MAN) specializes in permanent, temporaryg and contract recruitment, employee assessment, consulting and professional-financial services.
The company says 30 percentf of employers worldwide are struggling to findqualifie personnel. Positions in the skilled trades, sales, technical work and engineeringg remain the most difficult for employers to fill Manpower surveyednearly 39,00o employers in 33 countries and territories to gaugew their ability to find the talent they The 10 hardest jobs to as reported by 2,000 U.S. employers in 2009, are: 1. 2. Nurses. 3. Skilled/manual trades. 4. 5. Sales representatives. 6. Technicians. 7. Drivers. 8. Information-technologyy staff. 9. Laborers. 10. Machinist/machine operators. Even with U.S.
unemploymentr at or near record levels inmany areas, Manpower’s researcbh highlights the problems many employersw have in finding individuals with the righf combination of job-specific skills, experience and “In the four years we have performecd this research, the same positions appear on the list agaih and again,” says Jonas Prising, Manpower’s president for the Americas. “Despitw the current economic instability and high there are still skills thatthe U.S. work force seems to lack.” The U.S. findingd are part of a Manpower global study that surveyed morethan 39,0009 employers across 33 countries and territories in January.
Wisconsin-baserd Manpower (NYSE:MAN) specializes in permanent, temporaryg and contract recruitment, employee assessment, consulting and professional-financial services.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Emergent BioSolutions anthrax vaccine gets boost - Birmingham Business Journal:
adatynu.wordpress.com
The Rockville-based company’s BioThrax has been grantesd a shelf life extension from the from its current three yearsto four. Under its contract with the Departmeng of Health andHuman Services, the extensioj triggers a milestone payment of $30 million for doses of the vaccines already delivered to the Strategic Nationalo Stockpile. Emergent expects to record that payment as revenuwthis quarter. The shelf life extension also allowx Emergent to charge more for futurs doses of the vaccine delivered tothe government’s stockpile. That coulxd raise the value of the contract to as muchas $405 millionh over the next several years.
Last the FDA approved a reduced vaccinationm schedule tofive doses. Emergentg continues research that could lead to a further reductionj in the number ofdoses required, as well as the vaccine’ws use to treat patients after beintg exposed to Anthrax, not just as a pre-exposure vaccine. Emergent has supplied the government’s stockpile with 33 millioh doses of BioThraxso far. It is contracted to continur adding to stockpiles throughlate 2011. BioThrax has been used to vaccinate more than 2 million military personnel since the government first started buying the vaccineein 1998. Emergent stock (NYSE: EBS) was up 90 centsz to $14.63 per share in afternoo trading.
The Rockville-based company’s BioThrax has been grantesd a shelf life extension from the from its current three yearsto four. Under its contract with the Departmeng of Health andHuman Services, the extensioj triggers a milestone payment of $30 million for doses of the vaccines already delivered to the Strategic Nationalo Stockpile. Emergent expects to record that payment as revenuwthis quarter. The shelf life extension also allowx Emergent to charge more for futurs doses of the vaccine delivered tothe government’s stockpile. That coulxd raise the value of the contract to as muchas $405 millionh over the next several years.
Last the FDA approved a reduced vaccinationm schedule tofive doses. Emergentg continues research that could lead to a further reductionj in the number ofdoses required, as well as the vaccine’ws use to treat patients after beintg exposed to Anthrax, not just as a pre-exposure vaccine. Emergent has supplied the government’s stockpile with 33 millioh doses of BioThraxso far. It is contracted to continur adding to stockpiles throughlate 2011. BioThrax has been used to vaccinate more than 2 million military personnel since the government first started buying the vaccineein 1998. Emergent stock (NYSE: EBS) was up 90 centsz to $14.63 per share in afternoo trading.
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