text:
A credit verification system comprising a multiplicity of point-of-sale terminals and a programmed central processing unit with data storage equipment communicating with the terminals for automatically performing a credit check on the accounts corresponding to the credit cards inserted in the terminals. Each of the terminals is adapted to receive and operate with a plurality of different credit cards representing different credit card plans with the data storage equipment storing account information for each of the credit plans. After the various credit checks are performed by the central processing unit, the transaction authorization is communicated to the terminals. In certain instances, the central processing unit may refer the transaction to a video display terminal where an operator establishes voice communication with an external authorization center.
Claims available in
Description (OCR text may contain errors)
Stephenson, Jr. et al.
[451 Apr. 10, 1973 METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR CREDIT VERIFICATION [58] Field Inventors: Kenrick O. Stephenson, Jr., Upper Montclair, N.J.; George D. Telepko, Rydal, Pa.; C. Philip Strakosch, Tappan, N.Y.
Digital Data Systems Corporation Feb. 26, 1971 us. Cl ..340/149 A, 179/2 CA Int. Cl. ..G06k 5/00, l-IO4q 5/00 of Search ..235/6l.7 B, 61.11 A, 235/6l.11 C; 340/149 R, 149 A, 152 R; 179/2 CA References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 9/1969 Sallach "2 35/6111 C l/ 1971 Pomeroy ..340/ 149 A 2/1971 Presti ..340/149 A X 7/1971 Braun... ..340/l52 R 4/1971 Huber ..34 0/l52 R 3,544,769 12/1970 Hedin ..340/l49RX Primary Examiner-Donald J. Yusko Att0rneyWoodcock, Washburn, 1 Kurtz & Mackiewicz ABSTRACT A credit verification system comprising a multiplicity .Of point-of-sale terminals and a programmed central processing unit with data storage equipment communicating with the terminals for automatically performing a credit check on the accounts corresponding to the credit cards inserted in the terminals. Each of the terminals is adapted to receive and operate with a plurality of different credit cards representing different credit card plans with the data storage equipment storing account information for each of the credit plans. After the various credit checks are performed by the central processing unit, the transaction authorization is communicated to the terminals. In certain instances, the central processing unit may refer the transaction to a video display terminal where an operator establishes voice communication with an external authorization center.
14 Clains, 23 Drawing Figures TERMINAL PATENTEHAFR Toma sum 01 a; 15
TERMINAL c CARD TERMINAL CONCENTRATOR MESSAGE ASSEMBLER I AUTH BOX FILE ADD DELETE 1 BOX WARNING J FILE LIST UPDATE I/O BUFFER CENTER PROGRAM CRT H TO AUTHORlZATlON T CENTERS DATA IS RECEIVED 50 FROM A'POS DEVICE TIME LIMIT AND NO ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FROM DECLINE OR APPROVAL WAS SEND DATA TO SIGNAL CRT UNIT IND. SENT A DECLINE? N0 ACKNOWLEDG N AN APPROVAL SEND MESSAGE TO MESSAc s E QENDINO CRT IND NO ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AC 'I I IOII IEREgE ON A DECLINE v|74 BUFFER? TRANSACTION F lg. ll IDENTIFICATION OF CARD PLAN IS THE CHECK DIGIT VALID? F lg 2 IS THE ACCOUNT ON THE WARNING LIST? CHECK THE ls ADD THE 7 I ACTIVITY THE ACCOUNT NO ACCOUNT TO I FOR THE M ON THE ACTIVE THE ACTIVE PRESENCE OF FILE? FILE THIS ACCOUNT 98 PAIDIIEIII II I 3,727,186 SHEET 030F15- INVALID NUMBER BE IDENTIFIED BY THE IS THIS THE 2nd CONSECUTIVE ERROR FROM THIS BOX? SEND THE DATA TO THE SEND THE CRT FOR DATA TO THE v62 56 ESITEQ I IR VISUAL W' IDENTIFICATION THE POS.
OF 3 TRY BY THE DEVIcE TO SEND THE'DATA NEw- TRANSACTION WAS RECEIVED WITH AN OLD TRANSACTION PENDING REFERRAL IS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT PENDING? I ON THE NEW TRANS? LOG THE OLD TRANSACTION ON THE LOG TAPE I a I 7s 80 OLD TRANS- THIS INDICATES wAS SENT TO I THE IMPRINTER cRT FOR DID NOTIFUNCTION REFERRAL ON THE APPROVAL PUT THE NEW 70 SEND THE OLD TRANSACTION -IN THE BUFFER OVERLAY OLD TRANS. TO THE A EA TRANS. wITH ,cRT. OVERLAY R Y NEW I THE OLD WITH THE NEw TRANSAcTION Ob @b PATENTEU APR 0 I975 SHEET ACT I VITY BEYOND PRESCRIBED YES lo 24 HOUR LIMIT? SEND A STANDBY TO THE POS DEVICE ADDI TO THE ACTIVITY couNTER FOR THIS ACCO T UN SEND THE TRANS.
TO THE CRT FOR REFERRAL WRITE THE DATA BACK TO THE ACTIVE FILE 106 Fig. 6
ACCOUNT IS ON WARNING LIST THE ACCOUNT IS FOUND ON STATUSED ACCOUNT FILE IS THE STATUS AUTH. REFERRAL OR HOT CARD G IUF I5 IS THE CARD PLAN A SUBSCRIBER DOES THE AMOUNT EXCEED THE FLOO LIMIT I28 SEND APPROVAL TO POS DEVICE Fig.7
HOT CARD REFE RRAL 9O SEND THE TRANS- SEND TRANS. TO CRT INDICATING THE ACCOUNT IS ON THE HOT /94 CARD LIST TO THE CRT FOR REFERRAL SEND A STANDBY SIGNAL TO POS DEVICE RETURN TO ISSUE STANDBY TO POS DEVICE AND RETURN To PROCESS NEXT ENTRY PROCESS OTHER ENTRIES PATENTEIJ W5 3'. 727, 186
sIIEE USUF 1s REQUEST CARD PLAN EXCEEDS OR NOT ACCEPTED BY MERCHANT INPUT EXIST FOR THIS FROM CARD PLAN ZERO IND. N0
SEND M ESSAGE TO CONSOLE YES TYPEWRITER INDICATING LACK OF FLOOR LIMIT INPUT SEND A FRoM THE Pos STANDBY To THE Pos "\-'I2O DEVICE DEVICE IS IS THE ACCOUNT THIS AN FROM AN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OUT -oF-AREA PLAN? I PUT TRANs.
DATA To THE INDICATE THE 1 LOG TAPE ouT-oF-AREA PLAN IN THE cRT MESSAGE A TEST EAcH BUFFER I66 AREA FoR A PENDING ACKNOWLEDGEMENT. TEsT IS PERFORMED ON THE TIME THEIR 26 INITIAL SIGNAL WAS sENT TO CRT FOR AUTHORIZATION THERE AN CKNOWLEDGEMENT PENDING PATENTED IPR I 0 ma SHEET ENTRY HAS THE TRANSACTION A WARNING LIST ENTRY? IS THE ACCOUNT YES BEEN RECEIVED FROM THE CRT STATUS RECOGNIZED USUF I5 TO THE CRT.
wITH THE NEW STATUS,
WRITE THE DATE TO THE LOG TAPE YES THIS A LOG UPDATE TRANS? YES UPDATE LOG FILE wITH DATA FROM THE CRT.
CLEAR BUFFER INDICATE THIS CONDITION TO THE CRT UNIT PATENTE APR] 0191a SHEET 08 0F 15 VGOJQ 2 non mwm
s EL PATENTEMPR 1 01915 3'. 727. 186
SHEE l 1 OF 1 5 Fig [2d DATA NEXT CH WT) REQ I K 5 37 TO ERRT 5 F +5 TO SHEET 133F- 15.3
PATENTED APR 01973 Fi .I5
PATENTEU APR 1 0 ma SHEET lSUF 15 METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR CREDIT VERIFICATION BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION a forwarding address. Bankruptcy is a third category and the inability or refusal to pay incident to changes in employment, military induction, health failure and death make up the fourth category. The losses which may be attributed to the various categories represent an overwhelming dollar volume.
It therefore becomes increasingly clear that an automated system for checking credit for credit card accounts is a necessity. Slow and expensive clerical checking is completely impractical.
THE PRIOR ART Automated credit verification systems used with credit cards havebeen developed in response to this demand. One such system is the Creditmaster (TM) system which is manufactured and sold by Digital Data performs various credit checks on the account identified by the transaction terminals. Although this system has met with overwhelming commercial acceptance, it is designed and limited to a single credit checks on the accounts represented by credit cards issued by a single credit card plan or department store.
There is however a need for a system which will check the credit of accounts in various credit card plans. Bank and travel credit'card plans are a case in point. Since merchants will frequently honor more than one such credit card plan, there is a need to check the credit of credit card holder regardless of the particular credit plan. If a Creditmaster system approach were utilized to solve the problem of such a merchant, the merchant would be burdened with one point-of-sale terminal for each credit card 'plan honored with each terminal communicating with a separate central processing facility for the corresponding credit card card plan. In other words, the system performs credit the transaction amount against after the credit card initiating the credit check has been removed from the terminal and'another credit card has been inserted into the terminal initiating a subsequent credit check. Obviously, a false authorization could result.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION in accordance with one aspect of the invention, a system for verifying the credit of credit card accounts in a plurality of credit plans having different credit authorization requirements is provided. The system comprises a plurality of point-of-transaction terminals,
each of the terminals adapted to transmit signals representing credit card plans and account number to a central processing means. The credit checking is per- I formed by the central processing means after first identifying the appropriate account number and appropriate credit plan. The terminals and the central processing means are linked by communication means.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the signal transmitted to the central processing means also represents terminal data to enable the central processing meansto identify the appropriate terminal and determine if the credit authorization requirements of the identified terminal have been satisfied. After the credit check is performed, the central processing means generates signals which are transmitted to the appropriate terminal so as to authorize the transaction. In certain instances, the entire transaction may be referred to-a visual display authorization means which is attended by an operator. Additional communication means may then be provided to link the visual display with the terminals and the central processing means various creditchecks are programmed into the central processing means. For example, check digit validation may beperformed by the central processing means. Other checks involve the deterniination of extraordinary activity in the identified accountas well as acheck-of the floor limits for an identified terminal. I
In accordance with another important aspect of the invention, a buffer file is provided at the central processing means with an entry for each terminal. The buffer file includes fixed information relating to the terminal and variable information describing the input transaction. Such a file will prevent authorization of a transaction after the corresponding credit card has been removed from the transmitting terminal and plan. The impracticality of such an arrangement is apparentwhen the counterspace required for the various terminals is considered. Furthermore, great expense would be involved to the various credit plans sincev each would be required to maintain its own central processing facility.
When an authorization function has'been provided by a central processing unit in the prior art, problems have arisen in appropriately coordinating the authorization with the credit card in the terminal. In other words, the authorization from the: central processing facility might hev received at the terminal another credit card inserted.
These and other aspects of the invention are set forth in the following specification with reference to the drawings.
, BRlEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 12c is a schematic diagram of the circuitry in the terminal transmit and print control section;
FIG. 12d is a schematic diagram of the circuitry in the terminal datacontrol and mechanics control section;
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the exterior for a system terminal;
FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the interior of a system terminal;
FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of the interior of a system terminal;
FIG. 16 is a view taken along section line 16-16 of FIG. 15;
FIG. 17 is a view taken along section line 17-l7 of FIG. 15;
FIG. 18 is another view taken along section linel7- l7; and
FIG. 19 is a view taken along section line l9--19 of FIG. 17.
TABLE oF CONTENTS holders account numbers and the dollar amount of the transaction or sale on the sales draft 18 in machine readable form. Note that various kinds of credit cards 16 as represented by the letters a, b, and c are received by the terminals 10 so as to provide a credit verification system for use with various credit plans in accordance with another important aspect of the invention.
The system operation is initiated by clerks at the terminal 10. In this connection, the clerk is instructed to record all creditsales at the terminal regardless of the credit card used by the customer. A clerk uses the terminal 10 by first keying in the account number to agree with the card holders account number on the em bossed plastic credit card 16. Next, the clerk enters the amount of the sales by pressing appropriate keyboard keys. The embossed card 16 and the sales draft '18 are placed into the device and a verification button on The system will be understood from the following detailed description which has been divided into sections which, are set forth here for convenience of reference: I
1.0 The Overall System, Block Diagram, FIG. 1 2.0 On-Line System Processing, Flow Charts,
FIGS. 2-11 3.0 A'System Terminal, Block Diagram, FIG. 12
3.1 Keyboard, FIG. 12a I 3.2 Memory and Data Edit Section, FIG. 120 3.3 Memory Control Section, FIG. 12b 3.4 Transmit and Print Control Section, FIG.
12c 3.5 Communications Data Control and Mechanical Control Section, FIG. 12d 3.6 Communications Section, 3.7 The Exterior of the Terminal, FIG. 13 3.8 The Mechanical Structure of the Terminal,
FIGS. 14, 15 and 16 3.9 The Mechanical Operation of the Terminal,
FIGS. 17, 18, and 19.
Detailed Description of a Preferred Embodiment I .0 The Overall System A credit verification system for credit cards representing the preferred embodiment of the invention will first be described with reference to FIG. 1. As shown there, the system comprises the following three functional aspects: transaction entry at point-of-sale terminals 10; a referral function through a video display terminal 12 with voice communication to credit authorization centers external to the system; and a programmed computer function centered at a general purpose computer 14 for system control, normal authorization and record keeping.
Each of the tenninals 10 comprises a counter-top data entry device and printer capable of imprinting the data that is embossed on the card holder's card 16 on a transaction or sales draft 18. In addition, the terminal the keyboard is depressed. The message which is generated at the terminal 10 is now transmitted to the computer 14 through communication means including a concentrator 20, high speed telephone lines 22, and a message assembler 24. It should be appreciated that the terminals 10 by merchant numbers associated with the 1 terminals and a number for the telephone nearest each of the terminals 10. In addition, the box file 26 includes an accumulator for storing data representing the floor I limit for each card plan, a continuing count of the number of approved transactions, and a totaling of the dollar amount of approved transactions at the particular terminal.
Since the service charge for credit verification may very well be distributed on a merchant by merchant basis, the box file 26 providesa particularly convenient means of merchant billing. In this connection, it will be noted that the total volume of approved transaction is contained in the box tile as well as the number of approved transactions thereby providing a basis for usage billing. In addition, the information in the box file 26 may be utilized to generate I/O (input/output) buffers for an I/O buffer file 28 of the general purpose computer 14. This is a CPU core resident file having a number of entries corresponding to the number of terminals 10 which contains fixed information relating to the merchants having terminals and variable information regarding the input transaction. The very important functions served by the buffer file is to insure that transaction authorization from the computer 14 to the particular transmitting terminal is received at the time the correct charge card 16 and sales draft 18 are in the terminal 10. For example, if credit verification were requested with respect to a charge card 16-0, it is very important that the particular transaction be authorized at the time charge card l6-c is stillin the terminal 10 and not after the charge card 16-h in the next transaction has been inserted into the terminal 10.
The data stored in the [/0 buffer file 28 includes identification of the particular terminal l0, floor limit codes indicating the floor limit for each plan (a, b, or c), input messages such as the authorization request from a particular terminal 10, and internal control fields. In addition, the number of the telephone nearest the particular terminal is stored in the buffer file 28. Upon finding the buffer with a pending request, this transaction can be sent to the operator of the visual display means 12 for disposition and a new request may be received by the buffer. The buffer always contains the transaction present in the terminal 10.
The non-fixed field, and the flag fields of the I/O buffer file 28 are used for dynamic storage of information while the on-line program is in operation. The fixed fields, the box number, floor limit codes and the telephone number are inserted during the generate l/O buffer phase when the on-line program commences.
A warning file 30 which may be a drum resident index sequential file is used to store the account number and a flag of those accounts for which a pickup card" or a do not authorize order has been sent out by the card issuing plan. The flag indicates the type of condition that will cause referral to the video display 12.
In order to increase access speed from the computer ,14 to the warning list file 30 and save storage space, the file may be split in two. The first file will contain all account numbers less than 16 characters in length, each of which will require four words of storage. The second file will contain all of the account numbers greater than characters in length, each of which will require 5 words for storage. The data stored in the warning file 30 includes account numbers and flags with corresponding referral codes.
Since the status of certain accounts may change during the on-line program of the computer 14, a dynamic warning file 32 is provided which is also drum resident accessed by the computer 14. This file is created randomly during the on-line program by new adds sent from the operator at the visual display means 12. The file is also accessed randomly from the computer 14. As in the case of the warning list file 30, the dynamic warning list file 32 includes data representing the account number and a flag including a referral code.
In certain instances, it will be necessary for the operator of the visual display means 12 to communicate with another authorization center before approving or disapproving of a transaction. It is therefore important to maintain a drum resident authorization center file 34 which may be accessed by the computer 14. The contents of the file include identification numbers for the authorization centers and corresponding telephone numbers. Finally, a log file 36 is provided to record transactions processed during the on-line program, to update the box file usage and volume counters in the box file update, to provide input data for the box file update. For this purpose, the log file 36 includes data representing counter device identification, the sequence number of a transaction from the terminal 10, an account number, and the amount of the transaction. In addition, the data represents an authorization number assigned by the computer 14 or the authorization center and an action code identifying the type of entry in the log file. The log file may be stored on tape. I
The source of information in the various files will now be described briefly. As mentioned previously, the dynamic warning list file 32 is generated by update information obtained from the operators visual display means 12. As also mentioned previously, the dynamic warning list file 32 permits the maintenance of an upto-date warning list. Note that the warning list file 30 is not updated during the on-line program. (Broken lines indicates off-line processing.) Instead, the warning list file 30 is generated by a box file warning list update program 38 in response to data from the log file 36, add/delete cards 40 and the box file 26 data. The box file 26 is also updated with the program 38. Similarly, the authorization center file 34 is maintained by means of an off-line authorization center program 42.
When a sales clerk at one of the terminals 10 seeks authorization of a transaction arising out of the use of a particular credit card, a message generated at the terminal 10 is transmitted to the computer 14. The message comprises a start message symbol, a card code identifying a type of card used (credit plan), an account number, a box or terminal number, a sequence number indicating the transaction count for the terminal 10, the amount of the transaction, and an end message symbol. All of this is transmitted to the computer 14.
The on-line program for the computer 14 then accesses the on-line warning list file 30 and the box file 26 to determine the disposition of the request. If it is determined that the request can be approved immediately, that is if the account is not on the warning list and the amount is below the merchant floor limit, an approval message is returned to the transmitting terminal and terminal automatically approves the transaction. The tape log file is then updated with this transaction and the system waits for the next request. However, in certain instances when a referral is needed, a message is sent to the visual display means 12 which may be a uniscope CRT with a code describing the action taken on the account.
The request to the visual display operator may be for anyone of the following reasons:
1. to request authorization of an over-the-limit transaction;
2. notifying the operator of the use of an invalid card;
3. request for retransmission of a message from the counter device; or
4. inform the operator of hardware problems.
The authorization request message which is received by the visual display operator includes a referral code indicating one of the foregoing reasons for the request and a telephone number of an authorization center from the authorization center tile 34 or a point of sale device telephone number from the box file 26. The operator of the visual display then communicates with the particular terminal 10 or the dynamic warning list file 32. The communicated message to they terminal 10 will include the authorization number assigned by that authorization center or in the event the transaction is rejected, a reason for rejection. In the latter case, the account number is also included in the message.
2.0 On-Line System Processing The following account conditions are checked by the system after a transaction is entered at a terminal 10:
l. validity of data entered; I
2. status of the account, i.e., on the warning list; and
3. the amount of the transaction is under the floor limit. In addition, the system provides the following verifications which are made on the transaction:
I. data received, account, box number, sequence,
and amount, are verified for numeric content;
2. the issuing plan is identified and the appropriate check digit validation is performed;
3. the status list is scanned for the presence of the account;
4. the card-usage file is checked for over activity;
5. the card plan is checked against the merchant plans accepted and the amount is checked against the floor limit;
6. an approval signal is generated at the computer and transmitted to the terminal;.and
7. acknowledgement from the terminal is transmitted to the computer 14 prior to the logging of the transaction. The data of the transaction is now written in the log file 36 and the card-usage file stored in the computer 14 is updated. If the account was not previously in the-cardusage file 14, the account is added. If the card is already in the card-usage file, the number of transactions on this account are updated. The foregoing will now be described more specifically with reference to the flow charts of FIGS. 2-1 1.
As shown in FIG. 2, the data is received at the central processing unit 14 (50). A check is made to see if the message content is complete and numeric (52). If the answer to this question is in the negative, one of two potential conditions exists. First, the data received is garbled and the box number is invalid. Second, clerical mistakes have been made in the entry of the data at the terminal 10.
As shown in FIG. 3, a check is then made to see if the box number of the terminal can be identified by the central processing unit 14 (54). If the number cannot be identified by the central processing unit 14, the transaction is not processable by the on-line system and the data as it is received is sent to the visual display for operator identification (56). If the visual display operator can identify the terminal 10, voice contact may be initiated with an appropriate request for reinitiating the transaction authorization request.
If the data received includes invalid data in the amount or account field of the message, a resend signal may be transmitted from the central processing unit 14 to the terminal 10. If only one error has been received from the terminal 10 (58), a resend signal is transmitted to the terminal (60). In the event that two consecutive errors have been received from terminal 10, the data is set to the visual display 12 initiating voice contact between the visual display operator and the terminal (62). I
Referring again to FIG. 2, if the message content is complete and numeric, a determination is made as to whether a message transmitted from the requesting terminal is pending in the buffer file 28 (64). If a new transaction was received with an old transaction pending as shown in FIG. 4, a determination is made as to whether acknowledgement is pending (66). If an acknowledgement is not pending, this means that the old transaction was sent to the visual display 12 for referral (68) and the new transaction is overlaid with the old transaction (70). If an acknowledgement is pending for the old transaction, a determination is made as to whether the sequence number increased on the new transaction (74). If the sequence number did I not increase, this indicates that the carriage at the terminal 10 did not function on the approval from the central processing unit 14 and the old transaction is then sent to the visual display 12 and overlaid with the new transaction (78). If the sequence number did increase, the old transaction is logged in the log file 36 (80) and the new transaction is placed in the [/0 buffer 28 (82).
The transaction is now ready for identification of the account number and the issuing credit card plan (71) as shown in FIG. 2. Once the account and issuing plan have been identified, the transaction is ready for a number of checks. First, a check digit validation (72) is performed. If the check digit test fails, a resend signal is returned to the terminal 10 (60). After two resends have been sent to the terminal 10, the transaction is sent to a visual display 12.
The next check determines whether the account is on the warning list (84) as shown in FIG. 2. If the account is on the warning list (86) as shown in FIG. 5, the
' status of the account must be determined (88). If the statused as a hot card", a message is transmitted to the visual display 12 indicating the account is on the hot card list (94). Again, a standby signal is transmitted to the terminal 10 indicating the central processing unit 14 is ready to process the next transaction entry for that particular terminal (96).
. In the event that the account is statused for referral to the visual display, the visual display operator will call the authorization center of the appropriate card plan. Upon receipt of authorization, the operator enters the transaction through the visual display 12 with a decline or an authorization numberindicating approval. This data is then transmitted to the terminal 10. When an authorization is transmitted, a transaction is entered in the log file 36 after acknowledgement from the-terminal 10 to the CPU 14.
If the account is not on the warning list, a check in the activityfile is made for the presence of the account (98) as shown in FIG. 2. If the account is on the active file (100), a determination must be made whether the activity is beyond the prescribed 24 hour limit (102) as shown in FIG. 6. If the activity is not beyond this limit, a one is added to the activity counter for this account (I04), and data is written back to the active file (106). If the activity is beyond the prescribed 24 hourlimit, a standby signal is transmitted to the termianl 10 (108) and the transaction is referred to the visual display 12 (110). v v
If the activity on the account is not beyond prescribed 24 hour limit, a determination is now made regarding the acceptability of card plan by the merchant having the requesting terminal (112) as shown in FIG. 7. If the card plan. is accepted by the merchant, a determination is made as to whether or not the transaction authorization requirements for a substantial numberof cards in a given credit card plan for
Patent Citations
Referenced by
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2014 Vikings draft preview: Quarterbacks
APR 23, 2014 6:00a ET
FOX Sports North's Brian Hall provides complete coverage of the Vikings and the 2014 NFL Draft in his 14-part preview. Today is the second day of his Vikings draft previews. You can find the entire series here.
Importance (1-to-10 scale): 9
On the roster
This position was graded as 3 for need at this point last year and Minnesota returns its top two quarterbacks from last season. But the past year has brought a lot of change for the Vikings. Last year, Christian Ponder was coming off a strong finish to his second season and looking to build in an important third season. Matt Cassel was the veteran signed to backup Ponder and provide insurance against injuries or continued inconsistency by Ponder.
What changed? The third season ultimately proved Ponder was unable to take control of the position long-term and the inconsistencies and injuries continued to plague Ponder. Ponder finished with a 63.6 percent completion rate and 77.6 quarterback rating last season. Cassel took the reins and performed admirably, giving Minnesota a credible, if unspectacular passing attack. Cassel was the only Vikings quarterback to have more touchdowns than interceptions. He had just a 60.2 completion percentage, but he had an 81.6 quarterback rating, more yards per attempt than Ponder and was sacked far less often. In one year, the hope for Ponder is gone and Cassel is the starter for now.
With Ponder's three-year evaluation window over, the Vikings now turn their attention to the future at the position and will try to find another answer for a franchise quarterback in May's draft. Cassel will enter the season as the likely starter after re-signing with Minnesota in the offseason. Ponder is the backup before May's draft takes place.
Last five quarterbacks drafted
2011: Christian Ponder, Florida State: first round (12th overall) -- still with the Vikings
2010: Joe Webb, Alabama Birmingham: sixth round (199th overall) -- signed with Carolina Panthers as free agent, March 21, 2014
2008: John David Booty, Southern Cal: fifth round (137th overall) -- released, September 2009; out of the NFL
2007: Tyler Thigpen, Coastal Carolina: seventh round (217th overall) -- released, September 2007; out of the NFL
2006: Tarvaris Jackson, Alabama State: second round (64th overall) -- signed with Seattle Seahawks, July 2011; currently with Seattle
Philosophy at the position
Spielman has openly said the team will draft a quarterback. Though he says the next attempt at a franchise quarterback will come in this draft, he publicly says the pick doesn't need to come when Minnesota is on the clock with the No. 8 overall pick. Spielman said there is depth in the draft and he wouldn't have a problem dipping into the quarterback position later in the draft. But expect the Vikings to expend a pick within the first two days on a quarterback.
In the past, Minnesota was OK with a caretaker at the position -- someone to not make mistakes, make the occasional big play and be a complement to running back Adrian Peterson. Peterson is surely still going to be a big part of the Vikings' offense under new offensive coordinator Norv Turner, but Turner will want to stretch the field as he's done throughout his coaching career. Minnesota has upgraded its receiving corps with Greg Jennings and Cordarrelle Patterson in recent years and now needs a quarterback to grow with the offense.
Turner will also be key in the decision-making and development of a new quarterback. Spielman and new coach Mike Zimmer are leaning on Turner for help in evaluating the most important position in the league. Turner's offense has typically utilized big, strong-armed passers who can throw the ball down the field.
Day 1 name to remember (Round 1)
Derek Carr, senior, Fresno State (6-foot-2, 214 pounds): The "Big Three" of Johnny Manziel, Teddy Bridgewater and Blake Bortles have been at the top since the season ended and each opted to join the draft early. All three are likely to be picked in the first round, but the wild card is Carr, the senior from Fresno State. Carr very well could hear his name called on Day 1 and maybe even leapfrog some of the "Big Three." Carr has been scrutinized nearly as much as Manziel, Bridgewater and Bortles as the highest-ranked senior quarterback. And, of course, there's the link to Derek's brother, David Carr, who some can't get out of their head when looking at Derek. David was the No. 1 overall pick in 2002 and never lived up to the selection, despite an 11-year pro career.
Those failings have been unfairly transferred to Derek by some. But Derek has his own credentials. He might have the strongest arm of any quarterback in the draft and a big Pro Day -- in which he was sick in the hospital the previous night -- really brought the attention to Carr. The Vikings met extensively with Carr at his Pro Day and reportedly came away impressed with his workout. Carr is athletic and has worked out of different offensive systems, though he's seen as a shotgun quarterback after working nearly exclusively in the shotgun last year.
Carr threw for 5,083 yards last season in a pass-happy offense and had 50 touchdowns to eight interceptions. He completed 68.9 percent of his passes and started much of his last three seasons with the Bulldogs. The key traits NFL teams will project are Carr's arm strength and athleticism, and he's considered a strong leader.
Carr comes across as gregarious and easy-going and is a mature prospect. Carr is already married and has dealt with health issues for his son, who was born with intestinal malrotation and has undergone several surgeries. Carr demonstrates his appreciation and good nature in talking about his son.
Said Carr: "I've been getting ready for this since I was 3. I've been trained by my dad and my brother. I've been watching NFL film since I was 12. I think, from a mental standpoint, just having David is such an advantage, such a resource. He's done all this. Of course social media wasn't around when he was doing this, but it's such an advantage to have him. And my preparation, I'm not 6-6 and I'm not going to run a 4.3, but I will outprepare anybody."
Day 2 name to remember (Rounds 2-3)
Zach Mettenberger, senior, Louisiana State (6-5, 224): Mettenberger fits right in line with Turner's history with quarterbacks. He's a big, strong-armed prospect and a prototypical dropback passer. Mettenberger's movement skills are in question. He doesn't have the athleticism that many of the other new-age quarterbacks do in this draft.
The biggest concern for Mettenberger, though, is his surgically repaired knee. Mettenberger finished his senior season at LSU with 3,082 passing yards, 22 touchdowns and eight interceptions, becoming just the third Tigers' player to pass for 3,000 yards and the only LSU quarterback to throw for more than 2,500 yards in back-to-back seasons. But he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in the regular-season finale and was held out of the Outback Bowl and wasn't able to participate in February's NFL Scouting Combine.
With one of the latest Pro Days, Mettenberger showed NFL teams how far he's come from surgery, which might have eased concerns. Mettenberger took snaps and moved around at his Pro Day. He was never known as a scrambler anyway and teams should have come away pleased with his progress.
Mettenberger has the size many NFL teams look for and has arm strength, with the ability to make any throw. At LSU, he played in an NFL-style offense under coach Cam Cameron, a former NFL offensive coordinator. As the draft has neared, Mettenberger has reportedly received a lot of interest from NFL teams and is squarely in early second-round consideration.
Mettenberger will have to answer questions about his maturity, as well. He was arrested once and transferred twice during his college career. As far as pure passers, though, Mettenberger can rival anyone in the draft. He had a 64.9 completion percentage as a senior and averaged 10.4 yards per attempt.
Mettenberger says: "In the NFL they're always going to need guys who can throw the ball. That's something I do well. It's something I talked to coach (Cam) Cameron about. The game is changing. There are linemen today running in the 4.8s, freakish time. The game is getting faster. But at the end of the day the QB position needs to be a guy who makes tough decisions, smart decisions, to be pinpoint accurate when its crunch time."
Day 3 name to remember (Rounds 4-7)
Aaron Murray, senior, Georgia (6-1, 207): Murray can't match Carr's arm strength, Mettenberger's size or the athleticism of someone like Manziel, but he's experienced and well-rounded. Murray and Mettenberger have been linked before; Murray won the competition against Mettenberger to be Georgia's starting quarterback in 2010 and Mettenberger eventually transferred. Murray started all four years with the Bulldogs. But like Mettenberger, Murray's senior season was ended by a torn ACL.
Murray is the only Southeastern Conference quarterback in history to throw for more than 3,000 yards in four separate seasons. Murray doesn't have great size, but he has a quick release which led to a senior season in which he completed 64.8 percent of his passes for 3,075 yards, 26 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Before the knee injury, Murray was considered to have good movement in and out of the pocket, though he's certainly a pass-first quarterback.
Murray played in a pro-style offense, is seen as an intelligent player and a leader. Murray would have been considered among the Day 1 and Day 2 prospects before his injury. If teams are convinced he will recover with no issues, still have the same mobility to go with a quick, accurate release, Murray could still find his name called among the first several quarterbacks drafted. He is an experienced player with plenty of game film for teams to evaluate and maybe can develop into an starter in the NFL despite likely being selected on Day 3 of May's draft.
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The KUNGA restaurant: Don't miss the Momos
This cosy little restaurant, situated just below The Dekaling Hotel serves up the best Tibetan food I have ever tasted. There is enough seating for about 20 people so you may have to wait for a table at busy times. But they do seem to find spaces hence you soon get to speak to fellow diners!
The portions are large so beware of over ordering. The soups are all freshly made to order as are the Momos. Order the Spring rolls but be prepared to take them home in a doggy bag. All the meals are large but the bill at the end isn't.
Great place to meet folks and to have a good tasty filling meal
TOP TIP The last orders seem to be about 8-15 as the place closes at 9.00
Favorite Dish: MOMOS
- Backpacking
Nathmulls' sunset lounge at the mall: Drink Darjeeling tea from the top of Darjeeling
You can drink your Darjeeling tea here while watching sunset.
There's wifi too if you need to check your emails or do some online bookings.
The staff are friendly and this shop is a family run business, you might bump into one of the grandson or great grandson of the founder :D
Favorite Dish: The Teas!
Glenary's Restaurant and Bar: Drink tea - English style
This is a nice place for passing time with a good book and a cup of tea/coffee. The ambience is calm, with a great view of the mountains from the window. The food is mostly western style (sandwiches, toast, bacon & egg, cakes, etc.). Price is a little higher than other local restaurants, nevertheless still affordable (Rs.50 - 100 for a hearty breakfast).
Kunga Restaurant: Authentic Tibetan Cuisine
This small and cozy restaurant serves mostly Tibetan cuisine (Thenthuk, Bhagthuk, Gyathuk - handmade noodle soups). But they also have chinese and western dishes (e.g. chowmein, chopsuey, fried rice, french fries, etc.). Food is really nice and the portion is really generous with an affordable price (e.g. Rs.50-80 for a main course). However, waiting time could be rather long on busy hours (we waited for ~20 minutes once).
Favorite Dish: Loved the handmade noodle soups - there is a choice of chicken, beef, pork, and veg. The lassi and orange juice are also nice.
Hasty Tasty: Vegetarian food in a hurry
when you're in a hurry and in need of good comfort food, here is the place to go. Food items include indian (paratha, dosa, chapatti, thalis, pakoras), chinese (chowmein, fried rice, momo), and western (soup, pizza, french fries) dishes. Nice beverages are served here too: Darjeeling tea, masala chai, lassi, milkshake, fruit juices, and ice cream! It also has a nice view of Mt. Kanchenjunga from the window. Ambience is typically noisy and hectic though, not the place to go for reading and a relaxing cup of tea.
Favorite Dish: Fried rice (Rs. 40), dosa (Rs. 20 - 40), and momos (Rs.10 for 4) are nice! Their Darjeeling tea (small - Rs.20, large - Rs.25) and masala chai (Rs.12) is also worth a try!
Hasty Tasty: Soup & Noodles!
Although Indian food is available, it is the Tibetan and Chinese food that is the speciality here - and most of it is very good.
There are plenty of inexpensive places to eat. We happened upon Hasty Tasty in town and decided to give it a try. The piping hot sweet corn soup warmed us quickly from the cold weather outside. The chow mein was more like the chow mein you get in the U.S. rather than the kind you get elsewhere in India. My favorite though was the lo mein made with thin noodles.
You can fill up on soup and any one of many types of noodles and don't forget to try the momos!!
Visit 'The House of tea"-the chai bar
Located at 11 Nehru Road is the House of teas, or the Goodricke's group which is the exclusive franchisee of goodricke's garden,fresh teas in darjeeling.The teas are sourced directly from the gardens and specially brewed for the customers enjoyment.This is must try for tea lovers.We did sample few of them and loved it.The teas are served with cookies.Avaliable in 1 cup,two cups or a pot(serves 4) ....The teas are from gardens like Calstleton,Margret's hope,Thurbo,Badamtam and Barbsbeg.
They sell tea packets as well.
Mall Guest House Cafe: Best Restaurant in Darjeeing
Located in a quiet corner of Darjeeing, this is the BEST restaurant I've been to in Darjeeing during my 4-day stay. The dishes were nicely display, detaily made. Restaurants with nice & comfortable decorations, playing old & tasteful western music (jazz, Eric Clapton, Reggae, etc.). Owner & chef were friendly & love to talk to customers & asked for comment to further improve. I was there early evening (around 7pm) and this place was PACKED with locals.
Favorite Dish: 1. butter chicken (curry)
2. chicken tiika
3. Chapatti
eatries in darjeeling
The Buzz Glenary's Restaurant & Bar
The Glenary's,
Phone: 9434106990 (Manager)
Phone: 2254122, 2254315
Keventers ( coffee is famous)
1 Nehru Road,
Phone:2254026, 2256542
Hasty Tasty (veg restau-fast food)
13, Nehru Road,
Phone: 2252727
The Park (food is good)
Opp. State Bank of India,
41, Ladenla Road,
Phone: 2254989, 2255270
New Dish Restaurant & Bar (pork momos and thukpa is famous)
.P. Sharma Road,
Phone: 2252861, 2253456
Stardust ( a cup of cofee and great view )
Phone: 2254136
Penang's (try the traditional nepali thali)
Laden-La Road,
Momos momos momos and alu dum
if you love potatoes then we have something famous in darjeeling..its the local favourite......its alu bhuja...its a kind of snacks ...chilly potato grave with mixture of bhujiya kind of snacks in india......you get it best near beneis or near rink cinema...........now the inox hall..
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute.: Fresh Garden tea!
We can enjoy our breakfast at this restaurant with good quality fresh garden tea ! O my God it is really fresh and so tasty and strong tea....!
Favorite Dish: I liked the fresh 'n hot tea with any sandwich.
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TinyDuino shrinks the Arduino, retains its flexibility
TinyLily Mini measures less than a U.S. dime, just 14 mm (0.55 inches) in diameter
TinyDuino supports TinyShields – small, stackable boards which contain modules such as Bluetooth and WiFi
TinyDuino is smaller than a U.S. quarter, measuring 20 x 20 mm (0.78 x 0.78 inches)
The TinyShield interface supports all the signals that are supported on standard Arduino Shield connectors
TinyDuino boards can be plugged into a computer and programmed with the Arduino IDE
Both the TinyDuino and TinyLily Mini are significantly smaller than, but compatible with, existing Arduino models
Article Summary
The popular open-source Arduino microcontroller has been implemented in countless projects worldwide, and this very success has led the hacker community to create several smaller and cheaper alternatives to the Arduino, such as the Digispark. TinyDuino continues in this miniaturization trend but, crucially, does so while promising to retain all the flexibility of its illustrious forbear.
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Police are clueless about the reasons behind the abduction as no calls demanding ransom to free the infant were made. They found that Bharath had taken the baby to his house at Trimulgherry and had hired a woman to look after the infant
Four days after she was snatched away from her mother's arms, eight-month-old Sragvi was rescued by police on Wednesday from a house at Trimulgherry after arresting the abductor.
Though the arrest of the kidnapper, Ravula Bharath, brought an end to the sensational "snatching of baby from mother on the bustling Shivam Road in Amberpet", police are clueless about the motive behind it.
Motive not known
"The motive is being investigated. Further interrogation and verification will be done to ascertain facts," Hyderabad Police Commissioner Anurag Sharma said at a press conference.
Bharath, working with a pharmaceutical company, was a classmate of Sragvi's mother T. Sujana at the MBA college and a family friend. He was depressed after his wife divorced him. Bharath had no children and was craving to bring up a child.
Sujana was on her way back to her house at Prashanthnagar on Shivam Road from Tilaknagar after taking the baby to a doctor when the bike-borne Bharath came. Carrying the baby in her arms, Sujana got off the auto-rickshaw and was about to cross the road when the accused grabbed Sragvi and sped away. Though abduction of infants and children is not unusual, investigators are baffled as this was a rare case of the kidnapper taking away a baby from her mother. Initially they hoped to crack the case by analysing traffic and private surveillance camera footage. However, the cameras did not capture the images of suspects anywhere except that of Sujana walking towards an autorickshaw at Tilaknagar. Nearly 20 minutes later, the baby was snatched away from her.
Police are clueless about the reasons behind the abduction as no calls for ransom were made. Bharath was nabbed by a special team of the Hyderabad Central Crime Station on a tip-off.
They found that Bharath had taken the baby to his house at Trimulgherry and had hired a woman to look after the infant.
Keywords: Sragvi, Shivam Road in Amberpet, Hyderabad Police Commissioner Anurag Sharma, ransom, Trimulgherry, Prashanthnagar, Tilaknagar


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Acting on the orders of the Special Lokayukta Court, the Lokayukta police on Friday conducted searches at eight places belonging to Baburao Chinchanasur, Congress MLA from Gurmitkal in Gulbarga district.
The searches revealed that the former Minister owns 116.74 acres of prime agricultural land, most of which is located within the limits of Gulbarga city and some in neighbouring Bidar district. The searches also unearthed two houses, four factories and two colleges in addition to cash, bank accounts, luxury cars and other valuables.
The raids were a result of a private complaint filed on August 22, 2012 before the Special Lokayukta Court in Bangalore by RTI activist Shantappa. He had alleged that Mr. Chinchanasur had amassed wealth to the tune of Rs. 12.92 crore, most of which he had withheld in his declarations before the Lokayukta and the Election Commission. Admitting his complaint, Lokayukta judge N.K. Sudhindra Rao had ordered the Lokayukta police to register and FIR against the MLA and submit an investigation report.
An interesting facet of the Lokayukta's press note, containing details of the properties recovered, was the approximate value of the properties.
For instance, the Lokayukta valued 7.3 acres of land in Kawalga village, which is within Gulbarga town limits, at Rs. 5,000. A larger plot measuring 17.18 acres in Kawalga was valued by the agency at Rs. 10,000 and another 13.30 acre plot in the same area was valued at Rs. 8,000.
Even more interestingly, Mr. Chinchansur himself valued the 7.30 acre plot at Rs. 5 lakh and the 13.30 acre plot at Rs. 7 lakh in his 2008 declaration to the same agency — the Karnataka Lokayukta.
Of the 116.74 acres uncovered, the anti-corruption agency is yet to verify the value of 34.84 acres. The remaining 81.9 acres, including the three plots in Kawalga, have been valued at Rs. 9.45 lakh at just over Rs. 11,500 per acre. Although no Lokayukta officer, including Additional Director-General of Police H.N.S. Rao was available for comment, senior officers in the Lokayukta said that the investigation was at a preliminary stage and nothing could be said for certain at the moment.
Late on Friday evening, sources in the Lokayukta police updated their findings and said that in addition to recoveries mentioned in the press note an additional One kg of gold and two bank accounts with over Rs. 1.6 crore belonging to Mr. Chinchansur's wife were unearthed. They also unearthed documents of a 32 acre plot belonging to Mr. Chinchansur from a civil contractor.
'Politically motivated'
Gulbarga Special Correspondent reports:
Speaking to presspersons, Mr. Chinchansur said that the raids were politically motivated and he had full confidence in the judiciary and would come out clean.
Keywords: Karnataka Lokayukta, Baburao Chinchanasur, Congress


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Hormone Imbalance?
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Hormone Imbalance?
what sort of hormone inbalance would cause dry red irratated eyes. Worse when drinking. Just red blood vessels alll in my eyes first thing in morning and when I workout. Not sure if dry eyes or what? I think it might be due to hormones, if that can cause this sort of thing. Also skin flushing, etc....is bad
I also have a gallbladder that doesn't function properly. Can this cause flushing of skin and eye probelms?
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HUBER HEIGHTS — Ansonia's Samantha Shook won the girls pole vault and Greenville's boys 4x800-meter relay team broke a school record at the prestigious Wayne Invitational track and field meet, which was held Thursday and Friday.
Greenville's Aaron Balsbaugh, Calen Bruner, Jacob Butsch and Bailey Hartle ran the 4x800 relay in 8:04.45 on Thursday to break the Greenville school record. The Green Wave quartet finished second to St. Xavier, who won the race with a time of 7:59.49. In addition to being a school record, the Greenville squad's time also was the fourth fastest time in Division I throughout the state this year.
Ansonia's Shook won the girls pole vault as she cleared 11 feet. Five girls cleared 11 feet in the competition, including Shook and Greenville's Paige Keller, but Shook won via a tiebreaker. Keller placed fifth in the competition.
Greenville's Keller finished sixth in the girls long jump with a career-best jump of 16 feet 6 inches. She was just 2.75 inches off Greenville's school record in the event.
Greenville's Balsbaugh finished sixth in the boys 800-meter run with a time of 1:56.68.
Bradford's Shay LaFollette tied for seventh place in the girls high jump by clearing 4 feet 9 inches.
The Greenville boys finished 16th in the meet with 11 points. Pickerington North won with 82 points.
With Shook's 10 points, Ansonia finished 19th in the girls competition. Keller's seven points had the Greenville girls finishing 25th while LaFollette's 0.6 put Bradford in 39th place. Mason won the girls meet with 90.6 points.
For complete results from the Wayne Invitational, visit http://www.finishtiming.com/meet_details.php?uniqueid=529632E883C.


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Cost overruns at a controversial coal-gasification plant under construction in Kemper County, Mississippi apparently have cost the CEO of Mississippi Power Company his job. Ed Day recently resigned and has been replaced by G. Edison "Ed" Holland. Although Southern Company, Mississippi Power Company's parent company, gave no reason for Day's departure, it came about a week after the Mississippi Public Service Commission learned that Day had ordered documents containing details of when the utility knew about cost overruns withheld from the Commission. In April it was announced that the Kemper plant was $540 million over budget. This figure is in addition to a $376 million overrun which was announced in May 2012. The Public Service Commission voted in April 2010 to allow the plant to be constructed if Mississippi Power Company agreed to cap costs at $2.4 billion.
The Kemper County plant, which is scheduled to begin production in May 2014, has sparked controversy since it was announced in 2009. Opponents argue that the plant, which will use lignite coal native to East Mississippi to generate electricity, uses a new technology that has never been applied on a commercial scale and refer to the technology as experimental. The plant is planned as a 582 megawatt integrated gasification combined cycle facility. This gasification process sends coal through a gasifier, subjecting it to high temperatures and pressure thereby causing a chemical reaction which results in a synthesis gas. The synthesis gas is used in a gas turbine to generate power, allegedly with fewer emissions than a traditional coal plant. Mississippi Power Company officials plan to capture about 65% of the carbon dioxide emissions created by the plant and to sell it for enhanced oil recovery.
DISCLAIMER: Because of the generality of this update, the information provided herein may not be applicable in all situations and should not be acted upon without specific legal advice based on particular situations.
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Democratic Governors Urge Congress to Act on Health Insurance Reform
WASHINGTON, Sept. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Democratic Governors are urging Congress to act on the President's health insurance reform plan after productive conversations in the past week with House and Senate leaders.
"Governors are doing our best to help families struggling to pay for health care. We're all grappling with state budgets that are strained with the spiraling cost of health care," said Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer, chair of the Democratic Governors Association. "We need health insurance reform this year, and we support the President's goals."
"Health insurance reform has never been closer, and it couldn't come at a more critical time for states as we work to balance our budgets and families are forced to pay higher and higher costs for health insurance and uncompensated care," said Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley, vice chair of the DGA. "If we are truly going to reduce costs for small business and families and expand access to affordable, quality health care, we must hold insurance companies accountable."
Several Democratic governors participated in the conversations with members of Congress to express their concerns and hear more from lawmakers about their plans.
"We had productive conversations. The lawmakers heard our concerns and they understand where we're coming from," said West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin, who is the DGA's chair emeritus. "While I want to see more details, I feel good about where this is headed, and I want to see reform passed this year."
"Governors feel a real sense of positive momentum about health insurance reform," said Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. "Between President Obama's plan and the proposals coming out of Congress, I am optimistic that working families will soon have the security and stability they need. I urge our federal partners to pass health insurance reform into law as soon as possible. For states like Michigan, we know that the status quo will continue to squeeze the budgets of families, businesses and government – so inaction is unacceptable."
SOURCE Democratic Governors Association


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Results 1 to 30 of 32
Thread: Quitting the day job
April 30th, 2012 #1
Quitting the day job
Making this thread at the risk of sounding long-winded, self-absorbed and silly
So as I'm sure is the case for many people here, I want to quit my day job and freelance until I build the credentials for a studio job (or maybe just keep freelancing if it goes real well, who knows). The only two problems with that of course, are that I need steady income, and I need to be pretty damn good at what I do.
First the finances. For the time being, Rent+utilities=300, Student Loans=300, phone=90, groceries=150. Those are the essentials per month, all rounded up, and rounding up again that's $850 per month. I also like to buy GNC products for working out and spend maybe $100 a month on those, but that's not essential, and if misc costs come up I can cut from that if need be. (I don't have a car and I'm on my parents' health insurance, so I don't think I'm forgetting anything...)
Now, I don't expect to make that just starting off, but I have a from home job that pays 1k a month if you do 20 hours a week. So that should barely cover necessities... that's not particularly safe, but it would free up 20 hours a week from the day job, plus 40 minutes a day travel (and I could potentially watch educational vids while I work), and as (hopefully) my skill level and work load increases I could slowly cut hours from that.
The other part of it is whether I can even get work yet. I've done a few small freelance jobs in the past after sending out tons of applications (which I'm aware is part of the process), but nothing substantial... I think it would definitely be rough going at first. If I had to grade myself I'd say my work has competence, but doesn't quite leave a professional impression, and is still years away from displaying mastery of any kind. I'm just hoping it's enough to get by as supplementary income at first, maybe a couple hundred dollars a month averaged out.
My day job is fairly easy, close to my home, and pays as well as I can expect (10/hr), so I don't want to needlessly throw that away if the time isn't right yet. It's just that I feel really uneasy being there all day when I see younger artists than me completely kicking my ass and getting work (I'm only 23, but still, I need to improve more rapidly than I am now)
This isn't intended to be my portfolio review thread (though I won't stop you ), more of a someone stop me before I do something stupid thread.
This also isn't supposed to be my own personal "solve my problems for me, CA!" thread, so if anyone is having the same thoughts, or has experiences to share, well, speak up!
tl;dr: trying to decide if i should quit my 40 hr job for a 20 hr job that will cut it extremely close paying bills, but i can draw a lot more and work on a freelance career, as supplementary income at first
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Hide this ad by registering as a memberApril 30th, 2012 #2
Your signature says you're currently looking for work, and not in demand. Shouldn't you build up your work level a bit up first before working in an area that is a bit more based on demand?
April 30th, 2012 #3
I don't think you should quit your day job until you are consistently making enough money off of art to live. Even established professionals have dry spells where they get little to no work.
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April 30th, 2012 #4Registered User
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With me it's like: a steady job seems so safe and predictable, but then I act crazy and mess it up. I have to look for crazy in my life. "Know thyself" is my answer. And I have fought hard to live normally while my mind is doing somersaults.
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April 30th, 2012 #5
You are never going to have less responsiblity than you do now. If you can make it and art is what you want to do... do it. If you wait until you're married and have kids you won't be able to take any chances. It can happen faster than you think.
When I was twenty I had job offers from game companies that would have launched me into a professional career. I was in college and wanted to focus on a science career. By the time I realized that art was what I really wanted, I was already married with kids. I've spent years trying to get back into it, working 10hrs a day in construction (cause the money was better than lab work) and sleeping 5hrs a night so I could paint. I just recently made my play for what was basically handed to me when I was young.
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April 30th, 2012 #6
A couple of things: in my experience, whenever I cut things tight (financial-wise), something ALWAYS comes up that blows it out of the water. I'm assuming that you don't have a large savings.
Secondly, how many hours a week are you currently working on your artwork? Are you positive that having, say 40 extra hours a week, you will paint/draw within those 40 hours? I always found that the more free time that I had, the time that I wasted. I'm the most productive when I'm really busy.
You've accounted for rent, food, utilities, and phone and insurance. What about going out with friends? What about getting to/from any jobs (if you have to visit the shop)? What about gifts for Christmas, holidays, etc? What about clothes, haircuts, personal hygiene items?
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April 30th, 2012 #7
You're 23 now.
Think about this:
When you're 30, what is it that you want to be doing with your life at that point?
Now, do whatever it takes to make that a reality.
Life is short, and you only get to ride the coursel once.
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April 30th, 2012 #8
Do you have a time management plan on your daily life?
You have a money budget but what about your time budget?
Is there something else you can give up to make more time for improving your skills?
What is your current skill improving focus?
Have you had a serious talk with someone about where you're at and what you need to work on? It might be a good idea to know what is weak so you can address that first and then move onto other things that need your attention.
April 30th, 2012 #9
But I think about when I'll quit my day job every single day. My first plan is to ease into it. I want to at least give that a chance, ya know? I think I can be professionally productive on an entry level while still holding a day job to start with.
But, if that doesn't work, you better believe I'm going to go all in with every chip I have to make it happen.
So, my suggestion (from someone who has ye to quit his day job)would be to try and get your feet wet. There's nothing less heroic about scouting out how the industry responds to your work. Use that information to strategize how you'll break onto the scene for real.
Bobby makes a real good point about this in one of his latest videos. He encourages everyone to go after what they want 100%. But he suggests that you strategize well.
The Sketchbook of Naj and Stu!:
And of course go check out the SB of DefiledVisions
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May 1st, 2012 #10
Totally agree with you, UmpaArt. That's my plan, also. I would LOVE to be painting full-time, but it's not feasible at the moment (besides, I really really like my full-time job and I get paid well for doing it).
I DO work a lot of hours after I'm done with my day job. I also spend a lot of time marketing myself and trying to find venues to sell my paintings (Need to increase that a bit). However, I have a goal (in terms of my art work and sales) in mind and a time frame... so, that helps keep me on track.
But, in reality, it's easy to fritter away time, if I'm not careful about monitoring it. Amazing how fast a week goes by when you get busy with family stuff, etc.
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I can say that I kinda got the same thing as some of folks posted before - I'm best productive when busy. The more busy I am (it doesnt have to be only painting) the better I perform and the better I feel about myself.
So my advice would be: dont quit your job, try to get additional freelance there as well. Sooner or later you'll get to the point where you actually have so many job offers that you can quit your job and still make living.
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May 1st, 2012 #12
One thing I'd like to mention is that you better have business sense if you're going to freelance.
Because a lot of people are used to certain finances being handled by their employers like how much is paid into an insurance plan, taxes, social security etc... fewer understand tax rules when doing it on your own.
May 1st, 2012 #13Rent+utilities=300
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May 1st, 2012 #14
I would recommend gradual transition from a safe place in today's world. Just take advantage of your current situation and work your ass off to be every ounce as good as you can be...and then more. Things open up when you're work, and you, are ready.
What would Caravaggio do?
Plein Air
Still Life
Sight Measuring
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May 1st, 2012 #15
do whats best for you, and make sure you do it with all your might.
Sketchbook: ()()()()()()
Blog: http://mael-strm.tumblr.com/
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May 2nd, 2012 #16Registered User
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I have been freelancing for a few years (non-art, I'm afraid- I'm not anywhere near that level) and what you've been told is so true- its feast or famine. It seems there is always a plethora of work, or not enough. Something reliable and consistent to support yourself while you try freelancing shouldn't be abandoned without serious thought.
Is that work-from-home position contract or employment? Are you certain there will always be at least 20 hrs of work available? When the website or system crashes for a day or two, are you just out 2 days pay? Personally, with how the job market has been, I would choose the local job over the internet one. Maybe you could cut some hours or take some time off to allow for more art time, but I would prefer the security of a sure thing.
I noticed that you didn't mention art supplies (tech supplies?) in your budget. My computer and internet are how I make money. They're essential. Say, you buy a new computer and tablet every 5 years. Add up that cost and divide it by 5. That's your yearly carrying costs. And what about taxes? It gets tricky real fast when you're trying to figure out how much of your living space can be deducted. If you use a tax pro, that gets budgeted too. You're on your parents insurance for another year or two, does that cover vision and dental? What about prescriptions? Because you can be damn sure your wisdom teeth will be a problem at the worst time! Budget for contacts, new glasses, ongoing prescriptions and emergency ones, ER visits (at least $100 even if you have insurance), etc. Someone else mentioned budgeting for time with friends. I don't know about anyone else, but I go out with friends more now that I work alone than when I saw people everyday. It doesn't have to be much, but it may keep you sane.
You really want to think of all of your costs, including the potential ones. You don't want to find yourself in a position where you're facing homelessness because milk went up a $1.50. Ok, extreme example, but you get the idea. You need to be sure you can live through the famines, not just the feasts.
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May 2nd, 2012 #17
Just adding an extra two cents...
As long as you still have steady work, SAVE UP. You'll want a fair amount of cushion to get you through the first few years of freelancing... Especially in case of emergencies. (You get sick, your computer blows up, your rent suddenly goes up to something realistic, etc...)
Also, once you are freelancing, save up every time you have a flush period. You'll need it for the less busy periods.
I'm also of the opinion that you should segue into freelancing gradually if possible... It takes time to build up a client base.
And another thing to consider: if you wait a bit before quitting the day job, you could take some time to get yourself set up - learn about running a business and taxes, get all your promo materials ready, get your space set up if necessary, etc. I sort of got thrown into freelancing when the place I worked at went out of business, and it took probably a year just to reeducate myself and get properly set up for freelancing, it was not a fun situation... So if you currently have the luxury to get set up before you start freelancing, take advantage of it!
Oh - one more thing... Your budget doesn't seem to include phone, internet, and general cost of doing business (hosting services for your website? Costs of advertising and promoting yourself? Cost of messengering/fed-Exing things to clients? Not only art supplies, but office supplies? Software and software upgrades? Possible education costs? Travel costs if you need to meet clients, need to travel to promote yourself, etc? And so forth. Etc. etc. etc...)
Last edited by QueenGwenevere; May 2nd, 2012 at 03:22 AM.
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May 3rd, 2012 #18
May 8th, 2012 #19
I'm quitting tomorrow, I've decided <_<
As much as I truly appreciate the advice to not do so, I really feel that I can do this. So I'm gonna take a chance. I recognized it may be ill-advised, but I feel too strongly about it to ignore it. We'll see what happens. (remember i still have the 1k+ a month to get me by. money made freelancing is safety money).
It will require militant diligence in time and financial management, that's for sure. But I'm ready.
May 8th, 2012 #20
Brave choice
So daily sketchbook updates from now on?
May 8th, 2012 #21
Good luck!
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May 8th, 2012 #22
I did it in stops and starts. I saved when I had a non art job and then would quit and try and get work as an artist, fail, start again. I think for me the pressure helped me. Most of the people I knew with backup plans and safety nets ended up staying in those situations and never got what they wanted.
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May 8th, 2012 #23
Actually it just occurred to me that I had recommended my friend for an open position and he is starting there this weekend. I would hate for my quitting to reflect badly on him (since I'm the one who is basically getting him hired), so I think I'll actually wait until this weekend when his position is secure.
But then! Then I am outta there >B] and into the scary world of freelance :<
@Frostblade: most def B-)
Last edited by Ian Barker; May 8th, 2012 at 11:46 PM.
May 9th, 2012 #24
Interested to see how it works out. Good luck!
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May 9th, 2012 #25
thanks for the well wishes
On a somewhat different note, is it a total dick move to quit without notice? Everywhere I've worked before I've always given at least a 2 week notice. This is a grounds-keeping job btw (watering trees, pulling weeds and so on... not a bad job, kind of relaxing)... so it's not like my departure will be too monumental, but still I don't want to be an ass if quitting immediately is frowned upon too much.
Last edited by Ian Barker; May 9th, 2012 at 12:19 AM.
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May 9th, 2012 #27
They've been really nice to me, even forgiving a week and a half of sickness with no doctor's note last month
Now I feel guilty... :|
Oh well <_<'
Last edited by Ian Barker; May 9th, 2012 at 12:44 AM.
May 9th, 2012 #28
Give a notice for the sake of your own integrity. I gave 2 week notice to a company that I didn't much care for and they piled the work up on me to make sure it was done before I left, but at the end when I did leave they told me I'd be welcome back anytime. Moral -- Don't burn your bridges.
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May 9th, 2012 #29
Wish you good luck, hope everything turns out the way you hope
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May 9th, 2012 #30*** Sketchbook * Landscapes * Portfolio * Store***
"There are two kinds of students: the self-taught and the hopeless."
- Dr. Piotr Rudnicki
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text:
Ireland: An Inquiry Into the Social Condition of the Country, with Suggestions for Its Improvement (Paperback)
|Author: Daniel Keshan
Learn more about Ireland: An Inquiry Into the Social Condition of the Country, with Suggestions for Its Improvement:
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Nabu Press
Sku: 215547689
Publish Date: 4/21/2010
Pages: 134
Age Range: NA
See more in Business & Economics
|This is an EXACT reproduction of a book published before 1923. This IS NOT an OCR''d book with strange characters, introduced typographical errors, and jumbled words. This book may have occasional imperfections such as missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. that were either part of the original artifact, or were introduced by the scanning process. We believe this work is culturally important, and despite the imperfections, have elected to bring it back into print as part of our continuing commitment to the preservation of printed works worldwide. We appreciate your understanding of the imperfections in the preservation process, and hope you enjoy this valuable book.


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Tag: ordView All Tags
Airport Lounges / Airline Lounges / ORD / American Airlines / Chicago Travel / American Eagle / → All Tags
American Airlines' New Lounge Design Hits the Mark
It's not often that we find ourselves saying that we actually enjoy a U.S. air carrier's choices for an airport lounge. But our tune might be changing after experiencing first-hand how American Airlines is taking their #NewAmerican mantra seriously. On a recent flight out of Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, we were pretty impressed by the fresh design and approach behind the sliding door of American's Admirals Club. It's all part of the carrier's larger rebranding strategy, which has also included overhauled menus, refreshed cabins, a plan for new uniforms, and now some lounges that are comfy enough for any frequent flier.
United / Airlines / Airline News / ORD / United Airlines / Airline Marketing / → All Tags
What's That Smell? Oh, That's Just United's New 'Landing' Scent
Just the other day United was on our radar, as the airline was talking about the newest additions and what not to their United Club menu—like pita chips. Now they are back once again, as United is trying out some new ideas when it comes to the boarding area.
Over at Chicago-O'Hare the carrier is changing things up within Terminal 1, as gates B4, B8, and B10 are getting the new look. Stuff like new seating areas, mood lighting, more power outlets, and even gate agent podiums are all part of the new look. We'd imagine it's been decades since any thought or design has been put into the boarding area over at United, so we're thinking that change is a good thing.
Airport Art / United Airlines / ORD / Airport News / Chicago Travel / → All Tags
Beijing Comes to Chicago at The United Terminal at O'Hare
The United Terminal at Chicago O'Hare International Airport just got a little artsier.
"City Windows," a permanent art installation has been unveiled near gate B19, It was created by Chinese artist Qiao Xiaoguang and it's pretty awesome. So awesome, it might not make us so pissed off to fly United anymore.
The ancient art of Chinese paper cutting was used to create a panorama of iconic images from Chicago and Beijing. The images highlight landmarks like Navy Pier and the Willis Tower in Chicago, and Tiananmen Square and the Olympic Stadium in Beijing. The display symbolizes the deep friendship and cultural and business connections between Chicago and China, and can also be viewed from outside the airport when approaching the terminal.
Wish We Were There / Wish You Were Here / American Airlines Flagship. First Class Travel / ORD / → All Tags
Wish We Were There: American Airlines Flagship Check-In
Normally, our recurring travel snapshot series is called "Wish You Were Here" where we show off amazing travel destinations that we think you should go to. But today, we're reversing the roles and saying, "Wish We Were There".
That's because while flying out of Chicago O'Hare the other day, we noticed an exclusive zone amidst all the other lowly check-in desks-- The American Airlines Flagship Check-In . This writer had never seen an AA Flagship Check-in the wild but thanks to Jaunted's inside look at the AA Flagship lounge at JFK, I now know exactly all the luxury traveler shenanigans that are happening behind this walled-off entrance, such as: checking-in, changing seat assignments, and checking luggage. However, fancy pants Flagship travelers still have to go through TSA. Hah, suckers.
Think you can access the Flagship private check-in and the lounge once you're past security, check yourself. Do you meet the following requirements?
Inside the Amenity Kit / Qatar Airways / ORD / DOH / Doha Travel / Qatar Travel / Business Class Travel / Amenity Kits / In-Flight Comfort / → All Tags
Inside the Amenity Kit: An Armani Treat in Qatar Airways' Business Class
We come across some downright awesome airline amenity kits in our travels, and the surprises of each zippered pouch can often make or break comfort on a premium flight. With this in mind, here's to our new series: Inside the Amenity Kit, wherein we unzip, unwrap, and expose the loot inside:
14 hours is a long flight. Even with a nice tailwind to slice nearly an hour off the time in the air, a nonstop such as Chicago - Doha on QR722, a Qatar Airways Boeing 777-300ER, can be trying without some small comforts. Luckily Qatar is generous with both meal services and amenities, so even fussy flyers are left purring.
The 777s Qatar flies to their US destinations are two-class airplanes, with both Business and Economy. All of Qatar's long-haul fleet features flatbed seats in Business, and touchscreen in-flight entertainment systems throughout. The cherry on top is an amenity kit of Giorgio Armani products and a few other small surprises.
Amazing Airline Meals / Airline Meals / In-Flight Meals / American Airlines / Food Travel / First Class Travel / ORD / FLL / → All Tags
Surprisingly Yummy Airline Meals: American's Airlines Unique Take on French Toast
We have all had a terrible meal on a flight before. In fact, we have shown you some of the sadder trays slid in front of us. With this new series of amazing airline meals, we can revel in the airline culinary delights and give kudos to the airlines that got it right.
Domestically, we were on an American Airlines in first class out of Chicago O'Hare to Fort Lauderdale and scored an awesome egg-less alternative to breakfast-- French toast strata with warmed peach compote. (Unless you're lucky enough to fly on Singapore Airlines in the premium seats, always steer clear of egg dishes.)
Holiday Travel / Christmas Travel / Airports / Tech Travel / Travel Tech / ORD / Chicago Travel / Airport News / → All Tags
Why the Best Buy 'Geek Squad' is on the Scene at Chicago-O'Hare
If your electronics and mobile doodads aren't behaving this holiday season there's a new way to get things repaired and fix while on the go. Best Buy is sending their Geek Squad unit into the airport, as the brave women and men will be stationed at Chicago-O'Hare for the next few weeks.
When your phone just isn't keeping up its end of the bargain make your way over to Terminal 3 near the Concourse H food court. There you'll find the Geek Squad, and that's where they will be providing tech support for free through December 23.
Healthy Travel / Airports / Tips / Health / Food Travel / BWI / ORD / DIA / SFO / Airport Restaurants / → All Tags
These US Airports Offer More Healthy Food Options Than You'd Expect
Wander through an average US airport and you'll notice the options for a pre-flight nosh are usually disappointing. Fast food before sitting on a plane for hours? Even if your tastebuds say yes, your body will later have you regretting that decision.
Just last week, Baltimore Washington International Airport was named the top pick for healthy airport food. The award wasn't just bestowed by a group of frequent flyers, but backed by the brains behind the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine who annually rank the airports with the healthiest options.
An incredible 92% of BWI's food concessions have at least one healthy option on their menus.
Airport Restaurants / Winter Travel / Delays / Travel Delays / Snow Travel / ORD / Airport News / Vouchers / → All Tags
How to Get the Most Out of Airport Meal Vouchers During Flight Delays
When the airport looks like thisaircraft being de-iced and a departure board of yellow and red delays and cancellationsthen it's time to explore your options.
An extended delay may result in a gate agent handing you vouchers for services you wouldn't have otherwise needed had your flight flown on time. There are vouchers for a night at an airport hotel (a specific hotel, not your choice), vouchers for transportation, vouchers for future flights, and vouchers for meals at the airport. What vouchers you receive will depend on the nature of the delay, and anything that's the airline's fault (for example: crew scheduling, equipment issues) naturally yields more.
The most flexible vouchers are actually those for meals, but don't make a bee-line for the nearest McDonalds or $10 sandwich!
Typical meal vouchers allot $7 for breakfast, and $12 each for lunch and dinner, per person. That's not very much considering the current costs of airport foodLAX sells $19 salads, after allbut a little creativity and some basic math will get your tummy full of healthy options.
Airports / ORD / Airplanes / A380 / Airport Renovations / Airbus / → All Tags
A380 Service to Chicago O'Hare May Actually Happen
Make way for some super-jumbo aircraft in the heartland, since the folks over at Chicago's O'Hare Airport are ready to spend some cash to be able to allow Airbus A380s to pull up to its terminals.
ORD would be the last of the top 5 busiest U.S. airports to upgrade facilities for the double-decker airplane, and this is great news not only for travelers, but for a few airlines who have already pinned Chicago on their route map.
The massive airplane will head on over to Terminal 5, and the 34 airlines who call it home in Chicago have agreed to open up their wallets and cough up the $1 million for the preliminary designs for the airport upgrades. This comes after O'Hare's newest runway, (10C and 28C) along with nearby taxi route, was rated to accommodate the heavy aircraft.
Airport Spas / Airport Massages / Terminal Getaway Spas / ORD / MCO / CLT / → All Tags
It's 'Peppermint Delight' Season at These Airport Spas
Things you already purchase at the airport: trashy mystery novels, tabloids promising stars without makeup, Sbarro. (Do those still exist anywhere else?)
Things you will now start purchasing at the airport: cranial massage, Crayola brand nail polish, a bikini wax. Go to Brazil, get a Brazilian. It's poetry, really.
Terminal Getaway Spa is the brain behind these body treatments. Billing itself as the "first and only spa designed with the traveler in mind," Terminal offers an array of 10- to 90-minute services at (so far) five locations between three different airports: Chicago O'Hare, Charlotte Douglas, and Orlando International Airport. (Because really, nothing necessitates a massage like 6 days and 7 nights of screaming kids high on Disney crack.)
Health Travel / Travel Safety / Africa Travel / Ebola / Airports / Airport News / JFK / EWR / ORD / IAD / ATL / Airport Security / → All Tags
US Limits Potential Ebola Travel to Just Five Airports
We've made a sustained effort to calm you down over Ebola. As the Internet will be more than happy to explain, more Americans have been married to Kim Kardashian than have died of Ebola. So as we move forward in this post, let's keep eventhing in perspective.
Have you heard, though, that all of the TSA stations in Cleveland International had to be disinfected inch by inch because an Ebola patient passed through just one of them on the way to Texas? It was simply a precaution of course - the literal actual quote from the agency's spokesman was that "it's nothing official" but rather just "something that our folks wanted to do" - but it happened and it brings up a good point. Ebola is spreading beyond West Africa partly because of air travel, and even the suggestion of Ebola is enough to bring anything its associated with to a grinding halt. So isn't Ebola eventually going to grind air travel to a halt?


text:
Press release from CNW Group
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
CANAM GROUP IS AWARDED A $44M CONTRACT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FOOTBALL STADIUM IN WINNIPEG14:45 EST Tuesday, December 21, 2010BOUCHERVILLE, QC, Dec. 21 /CNW Telbec/ - Structal-Heavy Steel Construction, a business unit of Canam Group Inc. (TSX: CAM), located in Boucherville, Quebec, has secured a contract worth more than $44 million from Stuart Olson Dominion Construction Ltd., a business unit of Churchill Corporation (TSX: CUQ), for the construction of a new multisports stadium in Winnipeg, Manitoba.The contract awarded to Structal includes design-build, detailing, business information modeling (BIM) and project management services as well as the fabrication and erection of the steel components. Construction of this stadium is expected to cost in the vicinity of $190 million.Luc Pelland, senior vice-president of Structal-Heavy Steel Construction, is delighted to be partnering with Stuart Olson Dominion on the construction of this new Winnipeg stadium. "As a contractor specialized in the field of structural steel, we have demonstrated our expertise in integrating all the phases of a project to successfully meet all customer requirements," says Pelland. This construction project, he adds, will bring to 68 the number of North American sports facilities Canam Group and its business units have collaborated on over the years, 21 of which are home to Major League teams.Fabrication of the steel components will take place in the Canam Group plants located in St. Gédéon de Beauce, Quebec, and Calgary, Alberta. Deliveries and field erection are slated to begin in late March 2011 and to be completed during the second quarter of 2012.The new state-of-the-art stadium with a capacity for 33,000 spectators will be home to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League and the Manitoba Bisons, the University of Manitoba football team considered to be one of the finest on the university circuit.Over the years, Canam Group and Structal have been associated with many other stadium and arena construction projects for Major League teams, including the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Florida Marlins, the New York Yankees, Mets, Giants, Jets and Red Bulls, the British Columbia Lions, the New England Patriots, the Philadelphia Eagles, the Ottawa Senators and the Toronto Maple Leafs.About StructalStructal-Heavy Steel Construction is the business unit of Canam Group Inc. specialized in major and technically complex construction projects. Structal also offers design-assist, design-build, BIM and project management services.About Stuart Olson Dominion Construction Ltd.Stuart Olson Dominion is a progressive builder and construction manager that utilizes a team-based approach. Their experience in construction management, design-build and general contracting has been successfully applied to a variety of commercial, recreational, residential, industrial, institutional and civil projects.About Canam GroupCanam Group is a leader in the design and fabrication of construction products and solutions and a leading provider of design-build and building information modeling (BIM) services. The company operates more than 25 manufacturing plants and engineering offices in Canada, the United States, Romania, India and China, and has partnerships with companies in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and China.For further information: Photo available upon requestSource: Jasmin Gosselin Vice-President, Communications Tel.: 450-641-4000 Email: firstname.lastname@example.com www.canamgroup.ws www.structal.ws