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The ever-expanding Kornicis Group operates 23 bars and restaurants in and around London, ranging from Jamies bars across the City – including… more »
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2014 is set to be a big year for this Tower Hill venue, with the resident Corporation of Trinity House (a charity working for the safety,… more »
An invitation to the Pavilion at the Tower of London looks great on paper, but even better on arrival. Guests enter the purpose-built 750-seat… more »
For formal Christmas entertaining in the City, Clothworkers' Hall is one of the finest of the traditional livery halls. The centrepiece… more »
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Hurts- The Holy Trinity Church- 10pmAfter walking around for 10 hours and enjoying yourself like at any festival, walking into a church at 10pm and walking past a beer stand wasn't quite what I had in mind.I was here for one very good reason; Hurts. Another band who have been catapulted into the limelight and deliver a live performance that could leave the biggest of men in a state of emotional ecstasy. The setting for their headline slot seemed absolutely perfect; a huge, overpowering, dark church that was full of music lovers awaiting to see one of the most emotionally powerful and epic bands around at the moment.It's clear to see and appreciate the thought that goes into their live shows, the clothing, the lighting and their presence on stage all adds up to something that is indescribable, it's like nothing out there at the moment. It doesn't stop there either, the very few songs that are available to the public are all as brilliantly beautiful, epic and genius as each other. 'Blood Tears and Gold' makes an early appearance and creates the kind of emotion and power that should be created by an experienced band in an arena. When the chorus kicks in it's fair to say there were a few tears from the title in the eyes of some of the crowd as they all stood up, arms aloft, singing along with Theo showing the kind of passion the song deserves.The setting for the concert compliments the band perfectly and as they burst into 'Wonderful Life', which shows off a different side to the duo, the crowd start piling down to the front of the stage, ignoring the surroundings. It's got more of a electro pop feel to it that even leads to a lot of the audience bursting into some kind of 70's dance routine. The chorus is what we have come to expect of the band in such a small amount of time, a wall of noise suddenly hitting you in the middle of the face complimented with the dark sounding beautiful sound of lead singer Theo.Just when you think it can't get any better, recent single 'Better Than Love' starts to echo around the church and gets the biggest cheer of the night. It shows off the confidence of the duo as it bursts into what could be a modern dance classic after a sublime vocal introduction from both Theo and the brilliant sounding Operah singer who stands intimidating still at the back of the stage. The chorus is somewhat different to what we have heard in the last hour as there are definite signs of fellow mancunians Delphic but used in such a way that it feels brilliantly unique and slots in effortlessly into the setup of the song.It feels like they have been around for years, each song feels so comfortable and watching the duo on stage you could mistake them for people who have been doing this for years. The scary thing is, they are going to keep getting better.
hurts, wonderfull life, better than love, live at leeds
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WALLA WALLA, Wash. - Fresh from one of the most successful seasons in school history, the resurgent Whitman College women's volleyball team is ready for another strong fall campaign.
The Missionaries rolled to their third consecutive winning season a year ago and placed fourth in the highly competitive Northwest Conference (NWC) with an 11-5 record, just two games out of first place. Whitman stayed in the hunt for a conference title until the final week of the season.
Much of that team returns this fall, although the Missionaries must replace all-conference players Barby Ream and Heather Cushing, both of whom graduated.
"We have had a very good recruiting year," fifth-year Whitman coach Dean Snider said. "We have two outstanding freshmen in Jill Huber and Elly Smith who can contribute immediately. They will play significant roles in propelling our program to the next level."
The newcomers join a roster stocked with talent and experience. The returning nucleus includes senior co-captains Kelly Williams, Val Hamm and Jeni Brown, each of whom was a major contributor a year ago. Others expected to play key roles this fall are juniors Allison Roth and Claire Novotny and skilled sophomore Megan Kanaga. Junior Kristin Carter and first-year players Denise Kirstein, Liz Nelson and Bryn Thorsen add more quality depth.
"We should have a well-balanced team," Snider said. "We have strong players in each position and good depth. We will try to play to that strength, as we did last year."
Williams, a 5-foot-11 outside hitter, paced Whitman's offense last year, spiking 306 kills in 99 games. Her average of 3.09 kills per game was the sixth-best mark in the NWC.
"Kelly has always been a strong attacker," Snider said. "She also has developed into a very good all-court player during her time here. She will be our primary passer, and she is a skilled defender."
Hamm, a 5-10 outside hitter and a junior in terms of athletic eligibility, also contributes in more ways than one. She collected 4.11 digs per game last fall, the third-best average in the NWC, and added 2.89 kills per game at the offensive end.
"Val was one of our top defenders last year, and she played a major role as a primary attacker," Snider said. "She is a very good all-around player with solid passing, defending and attacking skills."
Both Williams and Hamm earned honorable mention all-NWC recognition last season.
Brown, a 5-9 outside hitter, is another reason why Whitman was the NWC's top defensive team a year ago, averaging 19.42 digs per game. Brown gave the Missionaries 3.53 digs per game, the seventh-best individual mark in the conference.
"Jeni has made her Whitman career by playing awe-inspiring defense," Snider said. "She has been an inspirational player and a natural leader for us. We expect her to continue her outstanding defense and to see more time as an outside hitter."
Roth, a 6-1 middle blocker, was among the conference leaders in both blocks and hitting percentage last fall as a sophomore starter. She was No. 2 in the NWC in hitting percentage at .278, trailing only teammate Barby Ream, and she was No. 6 in blocks with an average of one per game.
"Allison is a solid middle blocker and one of our more consistent players," Snider said. "She blocks well and is also turning into a potent attacker."
Novotny, a 5-7 setter, is ready to take the reins of the offense after serving as an understudy the past two seasons to the now graduated Heather Cushing. Novotny played in 26 games last fall, averaging a healthy 9.19 assists. By contrast, Cushing was No. 3 in the conference with an average of 9.47 assists in 78 games (Cushing graduated in just three years at Whitman, earning honorable mention recognition in two of her three volleyball seasons).
The offense will rest in good hands with Novotny, Snider said. "Claire has a quiet confidence on the court, a quality that her teammates respect and appreciate. She works hard and distributes the ball with good choices and good location. She's going to be a great court leader for us this season."
While Kanaga, a 6-0 middle blocker, saw limited playing time as a freshman last season, "she was impressive each time she stepped on the floor," Snider said. "Megan began to blossom as a player during our spring ball. I really believe she is going to be a force. She is a solid blocker and a stronger attacker. Those assets fit well on the right side, where she will probably start for us this fall."
Jill Huber, one of Snider's top recruits, is a 5-11 middle blocker who excelled in recent years at Enumclaw (Wash.) High School and for the Puget Sound Volleyball Club. A three-year varsity starter at Enunclaw, Huber was team captain and MVP as a senior when she led the South Puget Sound League in both blocking percentage and kills, earning first-team all-league honors in the process.
Huber also was a regular starter for her Puget Sound club team, which is rated among the top ten Junior programs in the nation. "Jill is already playing at a very high level," Snider said. "She will step right in and fill the hole left by Barby Ream. We expect Jill to have a great career at Whitman. I look forward to her contributions both as a player and leader."
Replacing Ream in the Missionary attack, however, will be a challenge. A first-team all-NWC player last fall, Ream led the conference with a .403 hitting percentage, and was among the NWC leaders in both kills (2.75 pg) and digs (3.22 pg). A versatile 6-foot middle blocker, she also was one of 12 players named to the NCAA Div. III All-West Region Team.
Fortunately for Huber and the rest of this year's Missionaries, Ream will bring her experience and talent back to the court this fall as an assistant coach.
Elly Smith, Snider's other top recruit, is a 5-3 setter and defensive specialist from Spokane's East Valley High School. A three-year varsity starter, Smith earned first-team honors as both a senior and junior. She also was captain and recipient of her team's Most Inspirational Player awards in each of those seasons.
"Elly's U.S.A. club team, the Spokane Splash, is also very strong," Snider said. "She has been that team's primary defensive specialist."
Kirstein is another freshman who has made a strong first impression. "Denise has great athleticism," Snider said. "She will likely make an immediate impact on the floor. She is a powerful jumper and a strong attacker."
Nelson, a freshman, and Thorsen, a junior playing her first season of college volleyball, are "very good ball-control players," Snider said. "As defensive specialists and all-court players, they round out our roster very well, making our team as deep as any Whitman team in recent years."
Whitman travels to Spokane to open its fall season in the Whitworth Invitational on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 1-2. The Missionaries play their home opener on Tuesday, Sept. 5, against a non-conference opponent, Cascade College of Portland, Ore.
Whitman heads east to play in the Gustavus Adolphus College Invitational in Saint Peter, Minn., on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 8-9. The Missionaries then start conference play when they host Pacific and Lewis & Clark on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 15-16.


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Quotes & Info
|AIZ > SEC Filings for AIZ > Form 10-Q on 31-Jul-2013
|All Recent SEC Filings
Quarterly Report
This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations ("MD&A") addresses the financial condition of Assurant, Inc. and its subsidiaries (which we refer to collectively as "Assurant" or the "Company") as of June 30, 2013, compared with December 31, 2012, and our results of operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012. This discussion should be read in conjunction with our MD&A and annual audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2012 included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and the June 30, 2013 unaudited consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Form 10-Q. The 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K, Second Quarter 2013 Form 10-Q, and other documents related to the Company are available free of charge through the SEC website at www.sec.gov and through our website at www.assurant.com.
Some of the statements in this MD&A and elsewhere in this report, particularly those anticipating future financial performance, business prospects, growth and operating strategies and similar matters, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these statements by the fact that they may use words such as "will," "may," "anticipates," "expects," "estimates," "projects," "intends," "plans," "believes," "targets," "forecasts," "potential," "approximately," or the negative version of those words and other words and terms with a similar meaning. Any forward-looking statements contained in this report are based upon our historical performance and on current plans, estimates and expectations. The inclusion of this forward-looking information should not be regarded as a representation by us or any other person that the future plans, estimates or expectations contemplated by us will be achieved. Our actual results might differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or other developments.
In addition to the factors described under "Critical Factors Affecting Results," the following risk factors could cause our actual results to differ materially from those currently estimated by management:
(i) actions by governmental agencies or government sponsored entities or other circumstances, including pending regulatory matters affecting our lender-placed insurance business, that could result in reductions of the premium rates we charge, increases in the claims we pay, fines or penalties, or other expenses;
(ii) the effects of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, and the rules and regulations thereunder (together the "Affordable Care Act"), on our health and employee benefits businesses;
(iii) loss of significant client relationships, distribution sources and contracts;
(iv) unfavorable outcomes in litigation and/or regulatory investigations that could negatively affect our business and reputation;
(v) current or new laws and regulations that could increase our costs and decrease our revenues;
(vi) losses due to natural and man-made catastrophes;
(vii) a decline in our credit or financial strength ratings (including the risk of ratings downgrades in the insurance industry);
(viii) deterioration in the Company's market capitalization compared to its book value that could result in further impairment of goodwill;
(ix) risks related to outsourcing activities;
(x) failure to attract and retain sales representatives or key managers;
(xi) general global economic, financial market and political conditions (including difficult conditions in financial, capital credit and currency markets, the global economic slowdown, fluctuations in interest rates or a prolonged period of low interest rates, monetary policies, unemployment and inflationary pressure);
(xii) inadequacy of reserves established for future claims;
(xiii) failure to predict or manage benefits, claims and other costs;
(xiv) uncertain tax positions and unexpected tax liabilities;
(xv) fluctuations in exchange rates and other risks related to our international operations;
(xvi) unavailability, inadequacy and unaffordable pricing of reinsurance coverage;
(xvii) significant competitive pressures in our business;
(xviii) diminished value of invested assets in our investment portfolio (due to, among other things, volatility in financial markets; the global economic slowdown; credit, currency and liquidity risk; other than temporary impairments and increases in interest rates);
(xix) insolvency of third parties to whom we have sold or may sell businesses through reinsurance or modified co-insurance;
(xx) inability of reinsurers to meet their obligations;
(xxi) credit risk of some of our agents in Assurant Specialty Property and Assurant Solutions;
(xxii) cyber security threats and cyber attacks
(xxiii) failure to effectively maintain and modernize our information systems;
(xxv) failure to find and integrate suitable acquisitions and new ventures;
(xxvi) inability of our subsidiaries to pay sufficient dividends;
(xxvii) failure to provide for succession of senior management and key executives; and
(xxviii) cyclicality of the insurance industry.
For a more detailed discussion of the risk factors that could affect our actual results, please refer to "Item 1A-Risk Factors" and "Item 7-MD&A Critical Factors Affecting Results" in our 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K and First Quarter 2013 Form 10-Q.
Executive Summary
Assurant has five reportable segments. Our four operating segments are Assurant Solutions, Assurant Specialty Property, Assurant Health, and Assurant Employee Benefits. These operating segments partner with clients who are leaders in their industries in the United States of America (the "U.S.") and select worldwide markets. The operating segments provide warranties and service contracts, pre-funded funeral insurance, debt protection administration, credit-related insurance, lender-placed homeowners insurance, renters insurance and related products, manufactured housing homeowners insurance, individual health and small employer group health insurance, group dental insurance, group disability insurance and reinsurance, group life insurance, group vision and supplemental insurance.
Our fifth segment, Corporate & Other, includes activities of the holding company, financing and interest expenses, net realized gains and losses on investments, interest income earned from short-term investments held and additional costs associated with excess of loss reinsurance programs reinsured and ceded to certain subsidiaries in the London market between 1995 and 1997. Corporate & Other also includes the amortization of deferred gains associated with the sales of Fortis Financial Group and Long-Term Care through reinsurance agreements.
The following discussion relates to the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 ("Second Quarter 2013" and "Six Months 2013") and the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 ("Second Quarter 2012" and "Six Months 2012").
Consolidated net income decreased $35,647, or 21%, to $133,523 in Second Quarter 2013, compared with $169,170 for Second Quarter 2012. For Six Months 2013, consolidated net income decreased $81,127, or 24%, to $251,303, compared with $332,430 for Six Months 2012.
Assurant Solutions net income decreased to $31,391 for Second Quarter 2013 from $40,363 for Second Quarter 2012. In our preneed business, results declined primarily due to lower investment yields and expenses increased as a result of higher amortization of selling expenses due to growth. In addition, Second Quarter 2013 results reflect a $2,741 (after-tax) charge for a reduction in force in Europe and the previously disclosed loss of a mobile client. Second Quarter 2012 results benefitted from $3,762 (after-tax) in client related settlements.
Net earned premiums and fees at Assurant Solutions increased to $774,565, or 7% for Second Quarter 2013 compared with $721,684 for Second Quarter 2012. Growth in domestic net earned premiums reflects promotional activity at an existing service contract client as well as increased vehicle service contract business. International net earned premiums increased primarily due to expansion in Brazil and Mexico.
We continue to expand our mobile business and recently announced that Assurant Solutions has added new programs with two large domestic mobile carriers. We expect the business from these programs to more than offset the previously disclosed loss of a mobile client.
The international combined ratio declined 250 basis points, excluding $5,700 of favorable client related settlements in Second Quarter 2012 and the $3,560 restructuring charge in Europe in Second Quarter 2013. Growth in Latin America and previous expense management actions contributed to the improvement. We expect these factors to continue to drive improvement in the international combined ratio through 2013. Our domestic combined ratio for Second Quarter 2013 decreased slightly to 97.6% from 97.9% in Second Quarter 2012, and remains below our long-term target of 98.0% due to expense savings actions taken in 2012.
Overall, we expect modest premium growth at Assurant Solutions in 2013, reflecting increased sales in domestic and international service contracts. We also plan to continue our expense management efforts.
Assurant Specialty Property net income increased $14,198 to $106,520 for Second Quarter 2013 from $92,322 for Second Quarter 2012. The increase was primarily driven by revenue growth from lender-placed loan portfolios added during the past year and the continued expansion of our multi-family housing business. For Six Months 2013 we added 2.6 million loans and expect to add another 1.0 million loans during third quarter 2013. These additional 1.0 million loans will begin to produce net earned premiums later in the year. Our placement rate on lender-placed loans tracked was 2.81% for the Second Quarter 2013 compared with 2.83% in Second Quarter 2012. We continue to expect that placement rates will fluctuate in the near term, reflecting the composition of newly added loan portfolios, but will decline over the longer term.
On April 1, 2013, as a result of the discontinuation of a client quota share arrangement, we began retaining premiums and underwriting risk from a previously reinsured client. Premiums written prior to this date, and the associated claims, will continue to be ceded proportionately as they run off over the next year.
In 2012, we began a multi-phased roll-out of our new next generation lender-placed insurance product to respond to the changed environment following the housing downturn. This product is now available in 28 states and we expect it to be available in 10 more approved states by the end of the third quarter. We also filed new product forms and rates in Florida and New York, which are currently undergoing review.
As previously disclosed, we continue to engage in discussions with various state regulatory and federal departments regarding our lender-placed insurance program. During Six Months 2013 we reached a settlement with the New York Department of Financial Services ("NYDFS") regarding our lender-placed insurance program in that state. Please refer to Assurant Specialty Property's results of operations section further below in this Item 2 for details on this settlement.
Overall, we expect Assurant Specialty Property's revenues to increase compared to 2012 due to higher volume in lender-placed loan portfolios, the discontinuation of the above-mentioned client reinsurance agreement and growth in multi-family housing products. We expect overall results to continue to be affected by changes in placement rates, loan portfolio activity, premium rates and catastrophe losses. We expect our expense ratio, excluding the effect of the NYDFS settlement, to increase in 2013, primarily reflecting increased costs to support new loan portfolio growth and customer service enhancements. We also expect our non-catastrophe loss ratio to increase due to anticipated higher frequency of such losses compared to 2012.
Assurant Health's net income decreased to $4,083 for Second Quarter 2013 from $28,932 for Second Quarter 2012. The decrease was primarily due to the absence of $13,856 (after-tax) of net investment income from real estate joint venture partnerships that was included in Second Quarter 2012 results, and a higher effective income tax rate due to limitations on the deductibility of compensation.
Assurant Health's loss ratio increased to 75.2% for Second Quarter 2013 from 73.0% for Second Quarter 2012, reflecting less favorable loss experience compared with prior period and pricing changes in response to the minimum medical loss ratio on our major medical business.
We expect ongoing changes related to healthcare reform to continue to affect Assurant Health over the rest of 2013. We expect net earned premiums to decline compared with 2012 but overall insured lives to increase as consumers look for affordable health care alternatives. In addition, we will continue our expense management efforts. We continue to anticipate our effective tax rate will be elevated due to higher non-deductible compensation expenses.
At Assurant Employee Benefits, net income declined to $11,474 for Second Quarter 2013 from $18,621 for Second Quarter 2012. This decline was primarily due to less favorable disability results, reflecting lower recoveries in Second Quarter 2013, and the previously disclosed reduction in the discount rate for new disability claim reserves.
Net earned premiums increased slightly for Second Quarter 2013 compared with Second Quarter 2012, driven by higher dental sales. Assurant Employee Benefit continues to emphasize enrollment and administrative services for voluntary benefit plans.
Overall, for 2013, we expect net earned premiums and fees to be consistent with 2012 due to continued growth in voluntary products.
Critical Factors Affecting Results and Liquidity
Our results depend on the appropriateness of our product pricing, underwriting and the accuracy of our methodology for the establishment of reserves for future policyholder benefits and claims, returns on and values of invested assets and our ability to manage our expenses. Factors affecting these items, including unemployment, difficult conditions in financial markets and the global
economy, may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition. For more information on these factors, see "Item 1A-Risk Factors" and "Item 7-MD&A Critical Factors Affecting Results" in our 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Management believes the Company will have sufficient liquidity to satisfy its needs over the next twelve months including the ability to pay interest on our debt and dividends on our common stock.
For the six months ended June 30, 2013, net cash provided by operating activities, including the effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents, totaled $261,096; net cash used in investing activities totaled $(343,602) and net cash provided by financing activities totaled $443,497. We had $1,270,395 in cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2013. Please see "-Liquidity and Capital Resources," below for further details.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K described the accounting policies and estimates that are critical to the understanding of our results of operations, financial condition and liquidity. The accounting policies and estimation process described in the 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K were consistently applied to the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for Second Quarter 2013.
The Assurant Health loss ratio reported on page 55 (the "GAAP loss ratio") differs from the loss ratio calculated under the minimum medical loss ratio ("MLR"). The most significant differences include the fact that the MLR is calculated separately by state and legal entity; the MLR calculation includes credibility adjustments for each entity, which are not applicable to the GAAP loss ratio; the MLR calculation applies only to some of our health insurance products, while the GAAP loss ratio applies to the entire portfolio, including products not governed by the Affordable Care Act; the MLR includes quality improvement expenses, taxes and fees; changes in reserves are treated differently in the MLR calculation; and the MLR premium rebate amounts are considered adjustments to premiums for GAAP reporting whereas they are reported as additions to incurred claims in the MLR rebate estimate calculations.
Assurant Health has estimated its Second Quarter 2013 impact of this regulation based on definitions and calculation methodologies outlined in the Interim Final Regulation from HHS released December 1, 2010 with Technical Corrections released December 29, 2010 and the HHS Final Regulation released December 7, 2011. An estimate was based on separate projection models for individual medical and small group business using projections of expected premiums, claims, and enrollment by state, legal entity and market for medical business subject to MLR requirements for the MLR reporting year. In addition, the projection models include quality improvement expenses, state assessments and taxes.
Assurant Consolidated Overview The table below presents information regarding our consolidated results of operations: For the Three Months For the Six Months Ended June 30, Ended June 30, 2013 2012 2013 2012 Revenues: Net earned premiums $ 1,916,414 $ 1,792,236 $ 3,766,862 $ 3,569,297 Net investment income 163,924 199,314 329,909 371,609 Net realized gains on investments 20,857 18,175 33,895 25,719 Amortization of deferred gain on disposal of businesses 4,072 4,596 8,164 9,217 Fees and other income 132,499 114,969 249,559 226,372 Total revenues 2,237,766 2,129,290 4,388,389 4,202,214 Benefits, losses and expenses: Policyholder benefits 916,950 872,027 1,774,311 1,728,385 Selling, underwriting and general expenses (1) 1,088,529 977,528 2,160,289 1,929,370 Interest expense 21,520 15,074 36,598 30,150 Total benefits, losses and expenses 2,026,999 1,864,629 3,971,198 3,687,905 Income before provision for income taxes 210,767 264,661 417,191 514,309 Provision for income taxes 77,244 95,491 165,888 181,879 Net income $ 133,523 $ 169,170 $ 251,303 $ 332,430
(1) Includes amortization of deferred acquisition costs ("DAC") and value of business acquired ("VOBA").
The following discussion provides a general overall analysis of how the consolidated results were affected by our four operating segments and our Corporate and Other segment for Second Quarter 2013 and Six Months 2013, and Second Quarter 2012 and Six Months 2012. Please see the discussion that follows, for each of these segments, for a more detailed analysis of the fluctuations.
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2013 Compared to the Three Months Ended June 30, 2012
Net Income
The Company reported net income of $133,523 in Second Quarter 2013, a decrease of $35,647, or 21%, compared with $169,170 of net income for Second Quarter 2012. The decrease was primarily due to a $23,004 (after-tax) decline in net investment income, including $17,529 (after-tax) of additional investment income from real estate joint venture partnerships in Second Quarter 2012 compared with Second Quarter 2013. In addition, results in our Assurant Solutions, Assurant Health and Assurant Employee Benefits segments declined, partially offset by improved results in our Assurant Specialty Property segment.
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2013 Compared to the Six Months Ended June 30, 2012
Net Income
The Company reported net income of $251,303 for Six Months 2013, a decrease of $81,127, or 24%, compared with $332,430 of net income for Six Months 2012. The decrease was primarily due to a $27,105 (after-tax) decline in net investment income, including $16,024 (after-tax) of additional investment income from real estate joint venture partnerships in Six Months 2012 compared with Six Months 2013. In addition, Six Months 2013 includes a $14,000 (non tax-deductible) settlement with the New
York Department of Financial Services ("NYDFS") and a $9,351 (after-tax) increase in reportable catastrophe losses in our Assurant Specialty Property segment. For additional detail on the NYDFS settlement, please refer to Assurant Specialty Property's results of operations section further below in this Item 2. Also contributing to the decline was a $10,205 tax liability increase due to a change in estimated non-deductible compensation expenses related to the Affordable Care Act.
Assurant Solutions Overview The tables below present information regarding Assurant Solutions' segment results of operations: For the Three Months For the Six Months Ended June 30, Ended June 30, 2013 2012 2013 2012 Revenues: Net earned premiums $ 681,827 $ 645,465 $ 1,371,327 $ 1,272,413 Net investment income 94,428 100,332 189,657 199,643 Fees and other income 92,738 76,219 171,850 148,659 Total revenues 868,993 822,016 1,732,834 1,620,715 Benefits, losses and expenses: Policyholder benefits 209,713 210,188 421,450 419,996 Selling, underwriting and general expenses 608,948 551,044 1,208,558 1,074,221 Total benefits, losses and expenses 818,661 761,232 1,630,008 1,494,217 Segment income before provision for income taxes 50,332 60,784 102,826 126,498 Provision for income taxes 18,941 20,421 36,528 42,735 Segment net income $ 31,391 $ 40,363 $ 66,298 $ 83,763 Net earned premiums: Domestic: Credit $ 39,584 $ 41,283 $ 81,316 $ 84,115 Service contracts 332,278 310,548 669,413 616,382 Other (1) 20,752 19,272 41,293 33,317 Total domestic 392,614 371,103 792,022 733,814 International: Credit 95,962 109,666 192,740 216,056 Service contracts 168,022 136,970 336,194 266,031 Other (1) 7,672 6,975 15,280 13,880 Total international 271,656 253,611 544,214 495,967 Preneed 17,557 20,751 35,091 42,632 Total $ 681,827 $ 645,465 $ 1,371,327 $ 1,272,413 Fees and other income: Domestic: Debt protection $ 7,526 $ 7,086 $ 14,022 $ 14,051 Service contracts 43,131 31,182 76,551 62,197 Other (1) 1,412 778 4,099 2,223 Total domestic 52,069 39,046 94,672 78,471 International 10,160 12,690 18,587 21,837 Preneed 30,509 24,483 58,591 48,351 Total $ 92,738 $ 76,219 $ 171,850 $ 148,659 Gross written premiums (2): Domestic: Credit $ 94,942 $ 98,122 $ 184,616 $ 191,364 Service contracts 522,034 472,156 962,356 863,850 Other (1) 28,932 32,056 56,890 55,329 Total domestic 645,908 602,334 1,203,862 1,110,543 International: Credit 243,814 249,001 486,361 496,330 Service contracts 181,358 153,838 357,950 315,361 Other (1) 12,533 11,414 24,097 22,464 Total international 437,705 414,253 868,408 834,155 Total $ 1,083,613 $ 1,016,587 $ 2,072,270 $ 1,944,698 Preneed (face sales) $ 256,913 $ 233,987 $ 486,391 $ 446,150 Combined ratios (3): Domestic 97.6 % 97.9 % 97.2 % 97.1 % International 102.1 % 101.1 % 102.2 % 101.4 %
(1) This includes emerging products and run-off product lines.
. . .


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Routes Sorted
L to R R to L Alpha
The Plate is likely the worst route on the Beaver Wall. Pull off the ground on good edges past the first bolt, reach up high and clip the second, then get ready for pain. Pull down on disgustingly sharp, tiny crimps in the black rock heading left towards the plate feature. Pull some cruxy moves establishing on the plate and moving the feet up then make a big move left to another serrated edge. Move up to a bigger hold to clip the 4th bolt and move left then back right to the chains. Be careful of the fall up here, the holds are slopey and there is potential to pendulum into the corner.
The Plate is the rightmost bolted route on the Beaver Wall, 50 feet right of Dead By 30 and 10 feet left of a shallow corner listed as a toprope in STL2.
4 bolts to a 2 bolt anchor.


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Wearable Technologies Innovation World Cup: In search of promising innovators who will make our live
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Herrsching / Munich, 02. June 2014 – STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, fittingly kick-started this season´s Wearable Technologies Innovation World Cup rounds by...
By STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics' TSU10X nanopower op-amps, which are part of the ST micropower op-amp family, provide ultra-low power consumption over the full operating temperature range
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STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications and the world's top supplier of secure chips for NFC Universal Integrated Circuit Cards
STMicroelectronics Innovation Night Recognizes Successful Cooperation with French Start-ups and SMEs
By Mutual PR
STMicroelectronics a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, today hosted its 2013 Innovation Night, showcasing the successful outcome of collaboration with innovative French start-ups and SMEs
By www.st.com
The STHVDAC-304MF3 antenna-tuning circuit has a 4-channel output for adjusting up to four tunable BST capacitors in the antenna-matching circuits of multi-band GSM/WCDMA/3G-LTE smartphones.
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Mandatory over-voltage protection now available in smallest industry-standard surface-mount...
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Move strengthens distribution network in Greater China and South Asia region with strategic and complementary...
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Designers of smart, connected embedded electronics for applications such as utility metering, renewable energy, and healthcare, have begun adopting new class-leading microcontrollers from STMicroelectronics
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MathEmbedded announces a support partnership agreement with global semiconductor manufacturer STMicroelectronics
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Register now to win $20,000 in cash prizes for applications based on STM32. www.stm32circle.com registration is open for the OpenWorld design contest promoting development of technologies for human-assistance applications.
By SemiDevices
SemiDevices has unveiled its new digital set-top box design. This technical solution helps create a device for receiving and decoding cable television broadcasts (DVB-C and SD signals).
By Denis Sotnikov
SemiDevices releases its new set-top box design, developed in partnership with STMicroelectronics, the world leader in the market of SoC and semiconductor solutions.
By eg3.com
New free online webinar - 'Making the change to Cortex-M Microcontrollers: Comparing STMicroelectronics' STM32 with the H8 and SuperH.' This free online seminar will be held May 19th and May 20th, at two different times.
By Raisonance
Competition yields innovative, fun new applications for STMicroelectronics' STM32 ARM Cortex-M3 devices
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- Musician's Friend Best Selection, Price & Service. Guaranteed.
Need Help? Call our Gear Heads at 800-449-9128Private Reserve Guitars 866-926-1923
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A sweet-sounding dreadnought with features that belie its price.
One of Fender's best-selling acoustics is now available with the sweet mellow tone of an all-mahogany body. The CD60 All-Mahogany Acoustic Guitar has upgraded features that include a new black pickguard, mother-of-pearl acrylic rosette design, new compensated bridge design, white bridge pins with black dots and smaller (3mm) dot fingerboard inlays. Other features include scalloped X bracing, black body binding, 20-fret fingerboard, dual-action truss rod and die-cast tuners. Hardshell case included.
Grab an affordable acoustic from a brand you can trust. Order today.
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Comments about Fender CD60 All-Mahogany Acoustic Guitar:
Just received this as a gift. I'm pretty impressed for the money. It comes with a nice case and the finish is flawless and there is nice depth to the mahogany. The MOP inlay is nice too.
I wanted a guitar to take to camping, or one that wouldn't bring me to tears if the two year old gets ahold of it and this is it.
If you are used to high end guitars it will feel a little clunky, but it doesn't fight back much and would be good for a beginner.
The factory strings aren't good. I'll be replacing them soon. It sounds a little out of balance to the bass, which will hopefully brighten up some with new, lighter gauge strings. It has a pretty nice tone with good sustain and volume though. The separation might be a little lacking, but again, that might change with some new strings. It will give you everything you want for a campfire.
The hardware appears to be consistent with others in the price range. This is my first guitar with a synthetic nut/bridge, and it looks comparable to bone. Definitely better than some of the cheapo plastic ones I've seen.
If you are looking for value, this is a good purchase. It's comparable to a more expensive Alvarez that I own.
It seems well constructed and I will definitely consider this when it comes time for my daughter to bump up to a dreadnaught.
I'm pretty happy with it and would purchase another one.
Best Uses
Comments about Fender CD60 All-Mahogany Acoustic Guitar:
Just received as a gift. It looks really nice and plays well. The action was a little high when I got it, but that is an easy fix. I don't like the factory strings and will be changing them out soon. Comes with a nice case for the price.
It sounds good, but is a little bassy for me. I also play a 12 string regularly so it might just be that I am used to a brighter sound. Hopefully that will change some with the strings.
Overall, I wanted a guitar that I didn't want to worry about taking camping or the kids getting a hold of and that's exactly what it is. For the money it has a flawless finish and looks really good (the pics don't do it justice) and is a nice addition to my collection.
If you are used to playing high end guitars it will feel a little clunky, but should produce all you need for a campfire or. It would be an excellent beginners guitar because it doesn't fight back much. I would definitely go with some lighter gauge strings than the factory ones for a beginner.
I'd definitely buy it again. If this line is still being produced if and when my kids want to start lessons it will get some consideration as their first dreadnaught.
Best Uses
Comments about Fender CD60 All-Mahogany Acoustic Guitar:
i would buy this guitar again.
Best Uses
Comments about Fender CD60 All-Mahogany Acoustic Guitar:
I bought the all mahogany version of this guitar to replace an old practice acoustic and am very happy with it. The mahogany version has a warmer sound than the one with the natural top. It plays well and seems to stay in tune well. It has good action and sounds as good as some more expensive guitars. I would recommend this as a practice/jam guitar.
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Comments about Fender CD60 All-Mahogany Acoustic Guitar:
I am an avid guitarist of 9 years and I have been in the market for a cheap and nice guitar, and I have to say that this guitar is very well worth it. I sat down at my local music store and tested this out and the action was perfect on it. It had a nice rich sound that wasn't too thin like many lower priced guitars and it didn't have an overly bassy sound. I was very surprised by the price of this guitar as well. I would definitely suggest this guitar to a guitarist who was wanting to find a nice cheap guitar.
Best Uses
Comments about Fender CD60 All-Mahogany Acoustic Guitar:
I have been playing acoustic guitar on and off since 2003: truthfully, this is one of the best sounding guitars I have heard. One thing I noticed right away is that it has the depth of sound comparable to my 12-string.
The styles I play are Hymns, Celtic, Folk, & Classical.
I was hesitant to buy it because there were no reviews at the time, but everything about it checks out. Also, the wood pattern is beautiful! and might I add- it is made for fingerstyle, flat picking, and classical finger picking on an acoustic.
Best Uses
Comments about Fender CD60 All-Mahogany Acoustic Guitar:
This is an incredible instrument; full/bold sound, gorgeous body, slick neck, does not displace tuning, and lightweight. The sound created by the all-mahogany body resonates with a warm tone, that easily captures a beautiful comparison of both the bass and treble pitches. The mahogany wood is one of the most beautiful additions to the guitar. The photo of the instrument severs this guitar no justice, as in person, the guitar is a breath-taking, grossly wood. The neck is slick; it does not catch your hand when moving cross the fret board, as well as is made with high quality. Also, to generally top off this amazing instrument, its overall mass is very light. Which only adds to the enjoyment of carrying it from place to place and positioning it while playing. A hardshell case also comes with this guitar; the case is made by Fender. Velvet inside material, that includes a, if you will, pocket, to place tuners/picks/finger spray/etc. Overall, incredible instrument & case.
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If you're not one to wear your heart on your sleeve, put it around your neck! The stainless steel lattice on the Circuit Heart Necklace's pendant was inspired by the technical aesthetic of circuit boards, but it's romantic shape brings out the softie in all of us.
Chain length: 16.5". Pendant Length: 1". Pendant Width: 1".
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It seems that the message about healthy gums is gaining more traction in Russia than it is in the so-called 'advanced' West
Dental and oral health supplier, Mirage Dental, recently signed a major contract with a Russian oral health company that will see substantial numbers of its Hydrofloss Kitty Waterjet machines shipped to Moscow every month!
General manager, David Caldwell, said: 'At Mirage, we have always been keen to explore new markets which explains our Inspiring Hertfordshire award for export in 2012.
'We look forward to raising awareness in Russia about good oral health with the Waterjet and a number of our other ranges, too.'
Mirage Dental will be looking to increase oral health exports further through their attendance at IDS Cologne (Hall 2.2 C049) in March.


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PayPal took money from our account to pay for Fraud account.
Paypal has restricted our Paypal account since someone fraudulently opened a Paypal account in our name over 11 years ago. Today Paypal has taken $357.19 from our Paypal sales and are holding over $1500 due to the apparent Scam. Now … Continue reading →
Posted on 27 August 2014 | 11:34 am
Contact address for notice of legal action against Ebay
I can give you the long version later if necessary, but right now I wish to take Ebay to court. Basically, they let a seller sell an item that I had paid for. I phoned Paypal, who spoke to Ebay … Continue reading →
Posted on 25 August 2014 | 1:03 pm
First funds were on hold then they vanished.
I tried to pay for a subscription to Elder Scrolls Online, only to be informed by paypal that the funds were being held for 21 days. 21 days passed and they still didn't release the funds – in fact I … Continue reading →
Posted on 21 August 2014 | 2:31 pm
PayPal is holding my funds for 180 without reason I have verified ALL requested
PayPal is holding ALL funds owed and due to me. The funds were pushed to my VERIFIED checking account — then PayPal "reversed" the funds due to "technical" issues. Later, I was transferred to the PayPal Resolution Team. I was … Continue reading →
Posted on 19 August 2014 | 1:38 pm
I got PayPal because I thought it would make things easier
I am a business owner and signed up for paypal so customers could pay me from around the world a little easier (or so I thought). Used PayPal for over a year with no problems from my home PC. After … Continue reading →
Posted on 18 August 2014 | 2:06 pm
There are too many flaws with eBay and Paypal
I can't tell you how many times I have burned over the years with Ebay and when I wrote to the President Meg Whitman (when she was president), she did absolutely nothing. Now come Paypal started with the same mentality … Continue reading →
Posted on 13 August 2014 | 1:29 pm
Anything is better then PayPal
Being a first time seller (and LAST time seller) I really have to tell you the whole experience has left a Very Bad Taste in my mouth. When I told my father I would sell his things on EBay for … Continue reading →
Posted on 12 August 2014 | 3:42 pm
Paypal has restricted my account because they say I owe them money
Paypal has restricted my account because they say I owe them money. The story is that they allowed a fraudulent charge which I disputed. The charge affected my bank account causing me to go into overdraft. After disputing the charge, … Continue reading →
Posted on 11 August 2014 | 2:19 pm
I am not allowed to close my account
I had been using paypal for about 10 years with no problems at all. I was just a buyer and rarely the seller, not in recent years anyway. However, I work on cruise ships and therefore have accessed my account … Continue reading →
Posted on 7 August 2014 | 1:28 pm
PayPal should ask for SSN at signup or not at all
I have received a message from PayPal saying that, because I MIGHT have enough transactions through them to generate a 1099-K, that I have to provide them with my Social Security Number. I know the threshold ($20,000) and will be … Continue reading →
Posted on 6 August 2014 | 1:52 pm


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The Duke Start–Up Challenge: Are You Game?
One of the great things that's constantly emphasized about Fuqua is that it is a risk-free learning environment. So does taking the element of risk out of speculative ventures enhance the learning potential? According to the participants of the Duke … Continue reading
Experience, Salary, Vacation, and an Offer.
Jobless in November As mid-November rolled around, I was not one of the fortunate few who had already landed a job offer, and therefore able to spend winter break in blissful relaxation. After speaking to my career coach about … Continue reading
Business Case Competition Provides Consulting Experience
Now that most of the MMS: FOB class has gone through the first rush of recruiting season, it seems that one of the popular routes is consulting. I had only vaguely heard of what consulting was before coming to Fuqua, … Continue reading
The Brand Challenge Mission
Recently, my fellow MMSers and I were given the opportunity to participate in the MBA Marketing Club's Brand Challenge. The annual event is a fun and collaborative competition where teams of students develop creative strategies to market an assigned product … Continue reading
Posted in Events, Student Clubs, Student Life Tagged Applicable Knowledge, Branding, Business Skills, Collaborative Learning, Cross-disciplinary, Extra-curricular, Fun, Fuqua Friday, Hands-on Experience, Industry Insight, Marketing, MBA, Networking, Strategy, Student Club, Teamwork, Traditions Leave a comment
Two MMS Programs Offer Opportunities to Stretch & Grow
"Good judgment comes from experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment." Nearly everyone laughs when I share this quip by the American humorist Will Rogers. It isn't particularly American, of course, so that's why it even works … Continue reading
Posted in About MMS, Academics, Admissions, Careers, International, Why MMS Tagged Admissions, Business Skills, China, Cultural Studies, Dean, Duke, Duke Kunshan University, Economy, Global, International, Learning, MMS: DKU, Personal Development, Professional Development, Program Format, Program Insight, Transformative Experience Leave a comment
Preparing for Career Success with MMS
My favorite part of the MMS: Foundations of Business program is the focus on self-assessment and development. So far, we've focused on this in our Business Communications class, as well as workshops on team dynamics and career preparation. In order … Continue reading
Posted in About MMS, Academics, Careers, Student Life Tagged Applicable Knowledge, Business Skills, Career Resource, Classes, Collaborative Learning, Communications, Diversity, Hands-on Experience, Job Opportunities, Leadership, Learning, Personal Development, Personal Insight, Professional Development, Program Insight, Teamwork Leave a comment
Opening My Next Chapter with MMS
Why Duke? Why Fuqua? Why MMS? From the admissions process to conversations with employers, family, or friends, be sure to truly take the time to reflect on these questions. They are asked time and time again, so be ready to … Continue reading
Posted in About MMS, Admissions, Careers, Student Clubs, Student Life, Why MMS Tagged Admissions Process, Business Skills, Community, Discovery, Diversity, Fuqua Culture, Healthcare, Impact, Job Opportunities, Learning, Make a Difference, Passion, Personal Development, Personal Insight, Student Club, Team Fuqua, Teamwork, Why MMS 2 Comments
Finding the Perfect Path
I graduated from Meredith College, a women's college in Raleigh, NC, with a bachelor's degree in psychology and two minors in history and Italian. So how did a person like me end up in a school of business? Let's first … Continue reading
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October 3, 2006
St. Johns County, FL -- Florida police shot and killed a Georgia man wanted in connection with a string of deadly crimes along the east coast.
Police say 37-year-old William Ashby from Georgia led police on a high-speed chase through two Florida counties before he crashed Monday night. They say he began shooting at officers after the collision and they returned fire.
The FBI had issued a warrant for Ashby's arrest because he was suspected in five murders from Virginia to Florida. They included the death of university of Virginia graduate student Elizabeth Hafter.
She was found dead in Waynesboro, Virginia, near a car Ashby is believed to have stolen In Effingham county, Georgia.
Police believe the crime spree began September 22nd when Ashby stole a vehicle in Savannah and then stole a friend's .38-caliber pistol.
Police say the suspect shot a convenience store clerk on Monday before stealing the car. The clerk remains hospitalized.
Feedback: firstname.lastname@example.com?subject=WilliamAshby/TB
P.O. Box 3130
Albany, GA 31706
(229) 446-1010
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Embarkation - was a disappointment as we had priority boarding but there was no such thing.
We found our cabin with ease and was greeted a very short time later with our luggage. We had fantastic cabin stewards Salvatore and Jose. Nothing was a bother to them they had our rooms cleaned quickly and quietly every day and they went out of their way to make our trip excellent.
The cabin was lovely, its the first time we travelled at the back of the ship and I was concerned about the noise (what noise) there was nothing but the sound of waves, which was beautiful. Being at the back gives you all views and with the ship docking in with the aft towards the town it was a perfect greeting to each port.
Breakfast and lunch were always too crowded to find a seat but if you skip breakfast and go right at noon for lunch you can get a seat.
The biggest issue we had was the fact that staff in the food areas allowed people to pick up food with their hands. We thought in this day and age that this would be stopped. It was rather disgusting to see a grown woman pick up bacon with her fingers out of the tray warmer or a man pick up a sausage and eat it there in front of you and go in for another helping. Somehow this has to be addressed.
I thought their shops on board were lovely but a bit overpriced. The shows on board were on par with other ships except the second last night when the show was a kind of Cirque du soleil performance. It was truly amazing.
This cruise was for the older generation with the average age being 65 - 75 yrs. A lot of English as this left from Southampton.
We found the shore excursions were quite good, overpriced of course but when your going to a foreign country you have not been too its always best to go on a tour. We spent a lot of money on the excursions but in the end I think it was worth it. However there were a lot of older people complaining about the amount of walking. You must make sure you read the details before booking. They tell you the approx amount of walking that is involved.
If the ship improved its food and service in the dining room I would have no hesitation in going on this ship again.


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LOS ANGELES (WKOW) -- There are some fans that will stop at nothing to see "Dancing with the Stars" firsthand. "I've been trying to get tickets for two years," says Kristina Gabor.
27 News anchor Amber Noggle was out in Los Angeles and caught up with some die hard fans of the show.
Cynthia Pabis has been following it for years.
Cynthia says, "We vote on who's gonna get a 10 first, who's gonna be hurt, is someone smiling the wrong way? We vote on everything."Of course, all the way out on the west coast, we found a lot of supporters for our hometown guy, Donald Driver. Roy Smolke wore his Packers hat, hoping Donald would sign it.
"I live and die with the Packers," said Roy.Cindy Martinez was also at the show rooting on Donald.
"Of course I have to go for the athlete, I've gotta go for Donald Driver," said Cindy. " I always love the athletes."
Once they get inside the ballroom, Debbie Clark helps them find their seats. "This season for some reason, it's just probably because everyone is such a good dancer, it is on fire in here," said Debbie.Backstage it's a little calmer, as the hosts get ready.
Tom Bergeron uses a special technique to prepare.
He says, "In all honesty, I meditate. I get in a chair and meditate."But there's not too much meditation going on in the ballroom. The fans get a little crazy with some dancing of their own and the help of Cory Almeida, also known as "the warm up guy.""This is like all out chaos," said Cory. "And my job is to kind of be the ring leader and let them know the chaos is gonna happen here, there's gonna be some fire chaos, some CO2 chaos, then we are gonna have confetti. It's gonna be beautiful!"When it's show time, the fans have a huge role in getting the dancers pumped up. "You are now here live. You are part of the energy of the crowd. And honestly these guys really help the dancers on the floor," says Cory.
Click on the camera icon to see our coverage of the fans.
A big name retailer has its eyes on a spot in Wausau, according to city council members.
Humid and warmer the next few days, with a chance of showers and storms.


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Home > Post > Post 11 > Post 11 News Release > Post 11 News Archives > News Release
News Release
TPR Lloyd Cochran
Public Affairs Officer
Kentucky State Police
Post 11, London
(606) 878-6622
Click here to e-mail TPR Lloyd Cochran
Update on Criminal Abuse Charge of Infant
Date of News Release: 02/01/2005
(LONDON, KY) - Kentucky State Police at London has reported updates on the case involving McCreary County Deputy Sheriff Steve Hensley and his wife, Linda Hensley on the criminal abuse charge of their infant child.
Kentucky State Police Detective Billy Correll reports that the couple waived extradition back to Kentucky from Tennessee and, will be picked up Tuesday, February 2nd.
Kentucky State Police are also happy to report that the infant's condition has improved according to the East Tennessee Children's Hospital.
The Hensley's will be formally charged when they arrive back into Kentucky with court dates pending.


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Shoppers can already buy cookware at Skokie's Westfield Old Orchard, but this summer they'll also be able to pick up groceries. When the mall's new 22,500-square-foot food court is finished, it will offer a wide variety of dining options and a 5,500-square-foot grocery store.
"There's a push by Westfield to always be putting the cutting edge options for food in our centers," said Amy Benson, director of marketing for Westfield. "It's become a new trend to become a one-stop shop, whether shoppers [are] coming for a dress for an evening out or going for a loaf of bread."
Old Orchard shut down its food court in September. Since then, construction has been under way on the first U.S. venue for Richtree Market Restaurants, which has six locations in Canada. The new food court will feature open kitchens serving a huge selection of dishes including sushi, pasta, pizza, omelets and salads.
"You really get to see the soup being made from scratch, the baked good actually being baked there in the market," Benson said. "It's all being freshly created right in front of your eyes."
While the companies are unaffiliated, Richtree operates similarly to foodlife at Water Tower Place in downtown Chicago. Diners are greeted by a hostess and receive a card to swipe at the different food stations, paying for everything at the end.
The Old Orchard space will feature indoor and outdoor dining, along with a rooftop deck. The grocery store will carry prepared foods, produce, meat, seafood and more, with an emphasis on sustainable and organic products.
Benson said the change was the result of market research that said shoppers were looking for healthier options and more choices for kids. The new food court will offer gluten free and vegetarian dishes, along with more kid-friendly fare.
"I think that you're going to be able to find a larger range of products than we had at the old food court at a reasonable price," Benson said.
Vicky Sfikas of Niles said she never went to Old Orchard's food court because she doesn't eat fast food, but that she would try the new version.
"You can't eat garbage anymore," Sfikas said. "I like fresh sandwiches, salads and sushi."
Evanston resident Ann Crosby said she was happy to hear about the food court's overhaul. She noted that before it closed for the renovation, the offerings had dwindled down to just a few vendors.
"It sounds great," Crosby said. "I'm kind of excited. I have two little ones, so the food court is a really great option because they never want the same thing. I don't want to call it upscale because it's still a food court, but it seems nicer."
Glenview resident Laine Dolan, 14, said she comes to Old Orchard nearly every week. She often used the food court as a place to meet up with her friends and said she was looking forward to the new concept.
"I think it's a great idea," Dolan said. "It will be really convenient if you're going there with your family."
During the construction, the mall has posted a Quick Bites brochure on its website, which lists all of the mall's casual dining spots.
"I think a lot of shoppers may not have been aware of all the options we had because they were so used to going to the food court," Benson said. "We're really just trying to provide as much information as we can for the shoppers so that during this time period, they can go to quick casual places like Potbelly's, Corner Bakery and Noodles & Company."
Benson said she eats at Old Orchard five days a week, so she's looking forward to the opening of Richtree.
"It's very appealing to me to be able to go into a restaurant everyday and have something different," she said.


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Calling all Cougars and Cubs!
Cougars and cubs, Trader Vic's in Palo Alto is the place to be on this rainy Friday! Ladies get locks, men get keys, and you spend the night tracking down your match. The party starts at 8 and goes until midnight so you'll have plenty of time to find that special someone. Lock and key party will be followed by a "dance party" with a "professional DJ." Even if you're not a cougar or a cub, if you happen to be in Palo Alto tonight, it might be worth the $20 for the sheer spectacle.
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