text:
Concur Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:CNQR)
F4Q09 Earnings Call
November 17, 2009; 05:00 pm ET
Steve Singh - Chairman & Chief Executive Officer
John Adair - Chief Financial Officer
John Torrey - Executive Vice President of Corporate Development
Jeff Keane - William Blair
Brad Reback - Oppenheimer
David Hilal - FBR
Brian Schwartz - Piper Jaffray
John Craft - D.A. Davidson
Bryan McGrath - Credit Suisse
Brad Whitt - Broadpoint Capital
Sid Parakh - McAdams Wright Ragen
Harish Parwani - Jeffries
Good afternoon. My name is Bailey and I will be your conference operator today. At this time, I would like to welcome everyone to the fiscal year 2009 and quarter four earnings release call. All lines have been placed on mute to prevent any background noise. After the speakers' remarks, there will be a question-and-answer session. (Operator Instructions) Thank you.
I would now like to turn the call over to John Torrey, Executive Vice President of Concur. Sir, you may begin your conference.
John Torrey
Thank you, operator. Good afternoon and welcome everyone to the Concur earnings conference call for our fourth quarter of fiscal 2009. My name is John Torrey, Executive Vice President of Corporate Development for Concur.
This call includes presentation slides that will accompany our prepared remarks. To access these slides, please log onto our website at www.concur.com. Other information of interest to investors, including our SEC filings, press releases and recent investor presentations can be found on the Investor Relations page of our website.
We are now on slide one. Our speakers for the call today are Steve Singh, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer; and John Adair, our Chief Financial Officer. After their prepared statements today, Steve and John will host a brief question-and-answer session.
Please now advance to slide two. Before we get started, we want to remind you that during the course of this conference call, we will discuss our business outlook and make other forward-looking statements regarding our current expectations of future events and the future financial performance of the company. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of today's date and are subject to risk and uncertainty.
We encourage you to review the details on this slide two and our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available at www.sec.gov for additional information on risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our current expectations and the forward-looking statements expressed or implied during this conference call. We assume no duty or obligation to update these forward-looking statements, even though our situation may change in the future.
Please now advance to slide three.
At this time, I'd like to turn the call over to Steve Singh. Steve.
Steve Singh
Thank you, John. Good afternoon everyone. Here the top five items to takeaway from the call today. First, fiscal Q4 was ahead of our expectations on all key metrics. Revenue reached a record high of $64.8 million, non-GAAP EPS was $0.29 per share and free cash flow was $17.5 million.
Second, we are very pleased with our performance for the years a whole. As we delivered 15% year-over-year growth in revenue, while improving non-GAAP operating margin to 23% and delivering 33% growth in non-GAAP EPS. Even as unemployment nearly doubled and travel budgets saw unprecedented declines.
Third, bookings were exceptionally strong as we sign more business in Q4 than any previous quarter in company history. Looking ahead, we expect the demand environment to remain solid throughout the fiscal year.
Fourth, we've seen nearly two quarters of some stability in macro environment. As we head into fiscal 2010, we expect year-over-year revenue growth rates to modestly trend up in the first half of fiscal 2010 and more substantially trend up in the second half of fiscal 2010. Finally, driven by continuing stability, improving growth rates, consistent execution, and the large scale opportunity in front of us; we are aggressively ramping investment across the business.
Please turn to the next slide. Turning our attention to Q4 results, we saw strong operating performance across the business. Revenue reached an all time high at $64.8 million and driven by 3% growth in subscription revenues on a quarter-over-quarter basis. That revenue our performance let to non-GAAP EPS for the quarter of $0.29 per share, $0.02 of share ahead of our expectations and driven by stronger earnings and strong cash collections. Free cash flow in the quarter was $17.5 million, nearly $2 million ahead of the high end of our expectations.
Please turn to next slide. As you know, our long term growth rate for both revenue and earnings is driven by new customer additions and cost selling of new services. We sign more new business in Q4 than any previous quarter, with strong performance across all geographies and all market segments. In fact we sign more than 800 new customer contracts in the quarter and we're pleased to see that more than 60% of our new customers selected Concur Travel & Expense.
As we've seen throughout the fiscal year, we saw several large transactions with in the quarter. Of particular interest is the fact that the financial services sector was the single biggest vertical contributing to new bookings growth in fiscal 2009. Also within the year, American Express became our single largest distribution partnership as we executed against the first phase of our market rollout strategy. We're excited about this partnership and we expected to contribute significantly in fiscal 2010.
Looking ahead, we see a strong demand environment for our services as customers continue to focus on services that can help them reduce their operating cost. It should be noted that the December and March quarters are typically or seasonally weakest quarters for new customer growth.
Please turn to the next slide. Before I outlined our expectations for fiscal 2010, let me take a moment to speak the macroeconomic climate, which continues to stabilize. As you will recall there are three core factors that can negatively impact customer usage and thus subscription revenue.
Most factors are unemployment, recession driven attrition and of course travel budgets. Collectively these factors have been substantial drive on the subscription revenue growth rate over the past several quarters. Of course the positive factors that impact subscription revenue are new customer additions and cross selling new services into our existing customers. We have seen solid momentum on these fronts throughout the fiscal year.
Please turn to the next slide. Unemployment continues to raise reaching 10.2% as of October, and until this past month the rate of increase in unemployment was easing. While the 40 basis points jump from September to October, make us cautious in our outlook. We don't have any reason to believe that the unemployment rate will exceed the economist estimates of approximately 10.5%.
Looking at travel spend on a year-over-year basis, we saw substantive and a sequentially decline from October 2008 to March of 2009, a flattening out from April 2009 to August 2009 and a modest move back in the direction of the waterline link in the month of September.
While it is comforting to see these negative trends start to abate, it's important to remember that unemployment today is double what it was 14 months ago and travel spend is still down substantially on a year-over-year basis. Looking at this macro trends in aggregate, we think it's prudent to remain cautious in our growth expectations as it will still take sometime to work to the lingering impact caused by the meaningful contraction of our global economy.
Please turn to the next slide. Over the next two years, we expect to return to our steady state revenue growth targets. In fact, we expect to trend towards those steady state growth targets over the course of fiscal 2010, but as we look out several years, we believe there's an opportunity to drive our top line growth rates above our steady state targets. Thus we are investing aggressively across the business, driven by continued momentum in new customer growth.
We will continue to increase our investments in service excellence by ramping up our investments in customer service and deployment teams. We expect to significantly increase our distribution capacity in fiscal 2010. Additionally, we expect to sign new strategic partnerships to reach new market segments and we will increase our investments in channel management in support of those partnerships.
Please turn to the next slide. We're in a position to increase our investments in distribution and generate a compelling return on invested capital in large part because of our ongoing investments in innovation. Over the past several years, we have driven product innovation in our market and have shifted the entire corporate travel market towards integrated travel and expense services. That change occurred for a simple reason. We provide a greater return on investment for our customers while significantly improving the end user experience.
In support of our Concur Travel & Expense service, we've invested to build out the Global Concur Connect Network, which connects our 9,000 plus customers who spend more than $35 billion annually to content and electronic receipts from hundreds of suppliers that are focused on reducing their own operating costs and providing more value to the business traveler.
In Q4, we signed a unique content agreement with Southwest Airlines, which gives Concur Travel & Expense clients unrivaled access, direct access to Southwest Airlines fares and schedules otherwise available only at southwest.com. Additionally, over the past year we've ramped up our investments to deliver web services that will expand the Concur Connect Network into a platform that allows our customers and partners to extend and enhance the value of our services.
Also in Q4, we released Concur Mobile for the iPhone. Concur Mobile extends the power of our service by giving you the capacity to change flights, book taxis, hotels, dining, or capture expenses and approve expense reports all from your handheld device all within policy and all while on the road. We believe that over the medium term mobile platforms will provide for new and incremental revenue and earnings growth opportunities.
Please turn to the next slide. Additionally, earlier this year we released the first version of Concur Advantage Services, a wide range of offerings that allows our customers to get greater value from our suite of services. Examples include customized report authoring, expense report auditing, that recovery, and digital mail room services for invoice and receipt handling. The vast majority of our services are delivered on a subscription basis and we expect Concur Advantage Services to contribute meaningfully to bookings in fiscal 2010.
We've also been investing to deliver Employee Spend Management services for emerging businesses a global basis. We define emerging businesses as companies that employ between one and 250 employees. We believe that this market segment is under served and can generate substantial revenue and growth opportunities over the medium term.
Please turn to the next slide. The net impact of a stabilizing macro environment and strong customer demand is the following: We expect our year-over-year revenue growth rates to trend up modestly in Q1 and Q2 and then trend up more substantially in Q3 and Q4 of fiscal 2010. Over the past several years, our views in the market opportunity and the customer requirements have been wholly validated.
Therefore it puts us in a unique leadership position to expand the market from our foundation. So as we look out several years, we believe there's an opportunity to drive our top line growth rates above our steady state targets. As such, we are investing aggressively across the entire business in the areas of product innovation, distribution capacity, and service excellence. The impact of these investments is that we will hope non-GAAP operating margin, which is the highest in the software services comp group as flat as possible in 2010 as compared to 2009.
Please turn to the next slide. As you know, we believe there's an incredible opportunity to drive innovation and efficiency into the corporate travel supply chain. In executing against this market opportunity, we have two high level goals. Our first priority is to grow our base of customers from the 9,000 plus customers we have today to more than 20,000 customers by 2012. Our investments in product innovation, service excellence, and distribution, including our partnership with American Express affords us the opportunity to make that goal a reality.
Our second and parallel goal to drive revenue growth is to expand our role in the travel supply chain with new services such as Concur Travel, Concur Pay, Concur Analytics, Concur Mobile and others yet to be announced. Successful execution against this market opportunity will drive compelling and sustainable growth in revenue, earnings and cash flow for years to come creating compelling value for our long term shareholders. In fact the strength of our business even in the face of a very difficult economic environment is a testament to the scale of that market opportunity and our ongoing ability to execute.
Before I turn the call over to John, I'd like to take this opportunity to speak to the announcement we made earlier today in which we stated that John expects to retire from this position as CFO of Concur during fiscal 2010 in order to attend to the needs of his family. Needless to say, John is more than just a trusted colleague. Over the years we have become very close friends. He embodies our core values and has worked to drive increasing value for our customers, our partners and our shareholders.
While I will miss his counsel and his contributions, I completely respect his decision. Concurs seasoned leadership team that has an average of ten years combined with our consistent execution and business momentum affords us the flexibility of a planned and thoughtful transition. Until a successor is named and the transition process is complete, John will continue to serve as Concurs Chief Financial Officer.
With that if you please turn to the next slide I would like to turn the call over to John.
John Adair
Thank you, Steve. Good afternoon everyone. Before I speak to this past quarter and the coming year, let me first add onto Steve's comments about my coming retirement from Concur. Anyone who knows me knows that my two great passions in life are my family and this company. Although professionally very difficult I have made the decision to retire to attend to the needs of my family.
Obviously the company's in a very strong position which will allow us the opportunity to undertake a very thoughtful and thorough process and purposefully manage through this change. Nothing in my day-to-day our responsibilities will change and until we find the right successor and we have made a smooth and seamless transition I will continue in my role as CFO.
Now, let us look at this last quarter and the coming year. There are three key messages I would like to you take from my prepared comments this afternoon. First, Q4 was another strong quarter of financial and operational performance, capping a year of incredibly strong margin and earnings growth.
Second, this last quarter has provided us with further evidence that the economic headwinds we have faced for the last year are beginning to decrease. While we believe there will continue to be mixed messages coming from the global economy for some time to come, we believe the current evidence suggests that the low point of the trough is being established and we expect revenue growth to accelerate more noticeably during the second half of the coming year.
Third, we believe that there is a medium term opportunity to drive our top line growth rates above our steady-state target of 25% and as such we are ramping investments and new service offerings, distribution, and service excellence in fiscal 2010. If you would, please, advance to slide 14 and let's look at Q4 results. Q4 revenue was above our expectation at $64.8 million and tapped a year in which total revenue grew by 15% to $248 million placing Concur in the top tier of software company performance for the current year.
During Q4 we saw the downward trend and travel spend continue to stabilize and begin to show modest improvement late in the quarter. Unemployment on the other hand appears likely to continue to provide some headwind with recent consensus pointing to the possibility of stabilizing by mid 2010. Finally, retention rates stabilized in the September quarter and we expect that overtime they will trend back to our historic norms.
Please advance to the next slide. Operating costs in Q4 were inline with our expectations and consistent with our comments at the end of Q3 as we saw the underlying revenue metrics of the business continue to stabilize we began to reaccelerate investments in global distribution and delivering innovation to new service offerings and in service excellence. Both gross and operating margins this last quarter continue to be very strong consistent with our out performance throughout the entire year.
For fiscal 2009 as a whole our gross margin was up 120 basis points to nearly 70%. Even more significant our operating margin was up nearly 400 basis points for the year to 23%. You will recall that historically we have committed to an annual improvement of 100 basis points in operating margin. This last year we clearly delivered well in excess of that commitment with the growth in operating margin representing nearly four years of operating margin expansion.
Said in another way, we have already hit the operating margin we expected for fiscal 2012. With revenue and margins exceeding our expectations, Q4 non-GAAP earnings were above our expectations at $0.29 per share compared to our target of $0.27. Earnings for the year as a whole grew to $14 per share an improvement of $0.28 per share or 33% over last year.
Please advance to slide 16. Cash flow from operations and free cash flow were also very strong for the quarter driven primarily by our growth in earnings. Cash flow from operations for Q4 totaled $20.4 million compared to $18 million in the previous quarter and after capital investments of $2.9 million, free cash flow was $17.5 million for the quarter compared to $14.3 million in Q3 and for the year as a whole, free cash flow totaled nearly $49 million.
Our balance sheet continues to be very strong and provides us tremendous leverage to continue to expand our market and our leadership. Cash and investments net of customer funding liabilities are in excess of $200 million as a result of increased sales activity; day sales outstanding were 65 days and remained comfortably within our 60 to 70 day expected range.
Deferred revenue continued to grow during the quarter and we have little in the way of debt. As we focus on fiscal 2010 and beyond our capital structure remains a tremendous strategic asset and affords us the ability to continue to expand our global leadership.
Please advance to slide 17. Let's now turn the discussion to the coming fiscal year. Based on our expectations of a continuing economic recovery, we expect year-over-year revenue growth rates to modestly trend up in the first half of the fiscal year and then trend up more significantly in the second half of the year.
Taking into account that the December quarter is seasonally slow for corporate travel, and customer deployments naturally precede at a slower pace as a result of holidays, total revenue for the first quarter is expected to grow moderately over this past Q4. Despite the significant issues facing the global economy over the last year, demand for our services has remained strong and we added more than 800 new customer contracts this last quarter.
We believe as the economy continues to regain its footing, we have the opportunity to further strengthen our leadership position especially a new markets and with new service offerings. In light of this and our out performance in margin expansion in fiscal 2009, we are increasing our rate of investment in global distribution, new service offerings and service excellence as Steve has previously discussed.
As a result, our non-GAAP earnings for Q1 are expected to be $0.27 per share, our non-GAAP earnings for fiscal 2010 as a whole are expected to be $1.27 per share and our non-GAAP operating margin for fiscal 2010 is expected to be 23% or more.
Please advance to the next slide. Cash flows for fiscal 2010 are expected to remain strong and continue to grow inline with earnings growth. For fiscal 2010 as a whole we expect cash flow from operations to total between $71 million to $74 million and after capital expenditures of approximately $16 million.
We expect free cash flow to total between $55 million to $58 million and just as a reminder you will recall the Q1 cash flows are typically lower than Q4 with a payment of certain annual commitments. We also expect our cash tax rate to remain in the low single digits for fiscal 2010 as we continue to utilize tax NOLs to reduce cash tax payments for the fiscal year as a whole we expect our GAAP effective tax rate will be approximately 36.5%.
Now to slide 19 and in closing, against to backdrop of the most severe economic crisis in decades, fiscal 2009 was a testament to the strength of our business with revenues growing 15%, non-GAAP earnings per share of 33% and our non-GAAP operating margin up nearly 400 basis points. We expect revenue in fiscal 2010 to continue to grow quarter-over-quarter with revenue growth accelerating more quickly in the second half of the year as the global economy improves.
As we look out several years, we believe there is an opportunity to drive our top line growth rates above our steady-state target of 25% and as such we are investing aggressively in product innovation, distribution capacity and service excellence. Finally, we have a strong balance sheet with significant cash reserves. We are very comfortable with our ability to take advantage of a recovering economy and intend to continue to aggressively pursue the growth of this market.
Operator, we'd now like to open the call for questions.
Question-and-Answer Session
(Operator Instructions) Your first question comes from Jeff Keane - William Blair.
Jeff Keane - William Blair
First of all I want to wish John good luck, and could you also talk about for the quarter were there any changes sequentially in sales cycles, contract terms or billing terms.
John Adair
Jeff on the question related to changes in sales cycles, there were none that were of any note.
Steve Singh
Nothing on billing terms or anything of that nature as well, contract length, all the same.
Jeff Keane - William Blair
Did you guys mention what the AMEX relationship contributed as a percentage of bookings?
Steve Singh
We didn't. I think that as we head out into fiscal '10 and '11 it is going to end up obviously being pretty material relative to a pretty significant probably is a better way of saying it relative to overall bookings. Suffice to say after year one it is now the biggest single external partnership we have and expect to stay that way for some time to come.
Jeff Keane - William Blair
How much of the new investments next year will be overseas?
Steve Singh
I don't know that I can speak to what percentage exactly is going to be international versus domestic. However, having said that over the last several calls we have been speaking of the fact that Europe and Asia are very significant growth opportunities for our business. Our Europe today is still a lion's share of that incremental investment, but you should plan on late 2010 also into 2011 you will see a lot more investment in Asia for us, and then of course incremental investments around the areas I highlighted on the call.
Your next question comes from Brad Reback - Oppenheimer.
Brad Reback - Oppenheimer
Steve during your prepared remarks and in the slides you talked about increasing investment and distribution and channels and some channel management. Can you give us a sense of what the opportunities are there?
Steve Singh
First of all, we think that, we are a long ways, years away from having reaching any kind of Max on investment in distribution and direct sales force. Today we are probably a third largest sales force in corporate travel. We think that overtime, sometime in the next handful of years we can be the largest sales force in the corporate travel industry. We have been going after that for sometime and we've seen tremendous opportunity in that arena first.
Second is that by the way that is not just U.S. centric. It is obviously on a global basis and more than that, it is also on a market segment basis from the biggest accounts in the world to some of the smaller accounts in the world. In addition that we think there's some very significant partner opportunities that are driven by segments, depending on the size of the customers what we're targeting, as well as banking markets. You're going to see additional partnership opportunities in Europe that are fundamentally different from what you will see in the U.S. or Asia as well as different sites of customers.
Your next question comes from David Hilal - FBR.
David Hilal - FBR
First just to follow up on the AMEX question, I know you said they're your largest partner. I want to confirm that's may state the obvious, but that's a function of them contributing more not necessarily ADP declining?
Steve Singh
That's exactly right, David.
David Hilal - FBR
Then just wanted to make sure I got that. Steve, on the AMEX partnership when you guys first did this partnership, a lot of the deal flow seemed to be coming from larger enterprises and I know there was a goal and hope that it would go down stream more into the mid market of AMEX core base, and I wanted to get some color on that, please.
Steve Singh
You're absolutely right. In year one the primary focus of our relationship were on the bigger opportunities, basically global accounts and what we call primary accounts, so the larger corporations in the world and to be fair, very U.S. centric in year one although we did expand outside the U.S. just modestly.
As we start year two of the relationship, you're going to see us not only continue to rollout in the U.S. down to smaller size companies, mid market size companies, but you will also see us expand our distribution substantively into the European marketplace. One other data point to give you around that is AMEX has identified eight lead markets, which I think we referenced before.
Off the top of my head it's the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, and Australia. I think that's eight and those are obviously in no particular order, but our objective is to get each of those market segments up and down the size of customers. We think that over the next two years, we should be able to comfortably do that.
David Hilal - FBR
Then finally you alluded to kind of the smaller market basically one to 250 employees. I wanted to understand a little more detail from a product strategy standpoint is that dumping down the current products? Is that a new product to be announced? How are you going to attack that market?
Steve Singh
David, here unfortunately I won't be able to give you a lot of detail on the product. We will provide a substantial amount of detail upon the announcement of that product. What I can tell you is we think it's a very significant opportunity. One third of the U.S. workforce is in that segment of the employee count, so roughly one to 250 employees.
Also frankly if you look outside the United States in lead markets across Europe and Asia, there's a significant number of companies that have employees in that segmenting. The other thing I think is very important to make sure we highlight here is that as we stated for years, middle market accounts, even SMB accounts tend to be the most profitable accounts.
Your next question comes from Brian Schwartz - Piper Jaffray.
Brian Schwartz - Piper Jaffray
This is Brian Schwartz sitting in for Mark Murphy. Steve, in your introductory comments and really throughout this call you've making it quite clear that you're increasing investments must see opportunity and demand building internally. Just wondering if you can give us comments, what you're hearing among the existing customer base regarding their expense report volume trends?
Just assuming that AP managers and/or CFOs are starting to plan next year's budgets and wondering if there's any early indication of their expectation for their own organization expense report volume to be up or down or flat for next year? Thanks.
Steve Singh
As I mentioned in the prepared remarks, here is what I guide you to. Obviously, we don't speak to specific expense report volume. What I can speak to is a couple of things that will help you understand that. First and foremost is travel spend, travel spend obviously was down pretty substantially in the first six months of fiscal 2009. It flattened out in the back half of 2009 and trended up just a tad in the last month fiscal 2009.
The expectation right now is that you're going to see it very modestly trend up overtime, which of course has an impact on the number of trips you take, the number of expense reports you file and so on. I think John referenced in his comments that if we're to look at the retention of our customer base, that we see a flattening out of attrition so to say and that we expect that the retention rates to return to normal levels in the relatively near future. So I think that would tell you that we are seeing generally good trends in our customer base.
Finally, I think the third item, which is just always one to keep an eye on is unemployment. Unemployment, I think the consensus estimates are about 10.5%, which is roughly in the March through May time period of 2010 is when it's expected to happen.
I would tell you that by in large we have been pleased with the rate at which unemployment has certainly eased and it has come off a lot from the first six months of fiscal 2009. However, I think John and I will be the first to tell you that when you saw the 40 basis points jump from September to October it's something we should take note of and exercise caution around.
Brian Schwartz - Piper Jaffray
One quick follow-up with John Adair, first of all, congratulations on the move, certainly miss you. You did a great job there on the call, but help put you on the spot here, in your comments on the Q1 guidance, you're referencing you would expect the revenue to grow, but grow modestly sequentially. Wondering if there is any way to help us with the words modestly? Are you talking maybe flat to low single digit growth, sequential growth or you talking maybe mid single digit growth?
John Adair
As we enter into fiscal 2010, obviously coming off of fiscal 2009 where revenue growth was up 15% over the prior year, obviously Steve has talked through some of the implications of what we see happening in the customer base and so as we look at revenue growth going into fiscal 2010, we expect that growth to be sequentially up each quarter. So organically up each quarter in the first half of the year growing more modestly and accelerating more significantly in the back half of the year.
Steve Singh
I just want to add a little bit more color to that. Obviously, I think that what John and I are trying to focus everybody on is that the rate of growth on a year-over-year basis for each quarter is trending up. So if you look at the rate of growth in 2009 for each quarter, it trended down from Q1 to Q4. We expect the rate of growth in fiscal 2010 to actually increase every single quarter on a year-over-year basis generally.
Your next question comes from John Craft - D.A. Davidson.
John Craft - D.A. Davidson
Sounds like there's not really a rush to find a replacement here, is there some sort of timeline you guys have set?
John Adair
No, John, there's no timeline. From perspective of how we move forward as I said in my opening comments, I'm fully engaged in my current role and nothing changes on a day-to-day basis. Obviously, the company is in a very strong position to make this change. So it allows us to go through the process in a very I guess what I call thoughtful and thorough manner.
My personal objective in seeing this through is that we find the absolutely right person to take this role and until we find the right person, get them into the business, get a smooth transition done. I'm in my current role and nothing changes. However, long that takes is however, long that takes and our business quite well. You've been around the business for quite sometime.
We will focus on ensuring that we find an individual who is a tremendous cultural fit for the business. We have a tenure here of the team as Steve mentioned over ten years. It is a tremendously stable group to go through this process and frankly we're in a great position, I think as strong as the company is. We've the opportunity to pick from the best talent in the world. So as long as it takes to get this done, as long as it takes to get this done.
John Craft - D.A. Davidson
Then both you guys mentioned the retention rates expecting those to return to more historical norms and obviously the majority of the run off here is de-converting users due to unemployment trends, but I guess from a competitive standpoint are you seeing any changes there? Are you seeing clients looking just to consolidate vendors and migrations from that?
Steve Singh
No. In fact, it's just the opposite. We are the consolidator. I think the retention rate run off is exactly what you referenced, which is unemployment. If the folks aren't there, it's a little hard to say that they can use the service. So that's the primary overwhelmingly primary reason for the run off in retention rates.
John Adair
John, the other thing I'd say that we've seen during this period of time and we talked with this on prior calls, win rates have gone up and that continued through this last quarter, and frankly we've seen with addition of new customers that those customers have looked at the competitive landscape and taken a flight to quality and they've come to Concur.
John Craft - D.A. Davidson
Just one last question if I may. As far as the Etap integration, you were expecting that to be dilutive. Was it in fact in the quarter and is there a way to quantify that for us?
John Adair
Yeah. Obviously we expected it to be dilutive in Q4. It was dilutive in Q4. I'm not sure we provide any specific numbers around the dilution. Obviously it's a relatively small deal. So the impact to it is rather insignificant. We obviously expect it to be accretive in 2010.
Your next question comes from Bryan McGrath - Credit Suisse.
Bryan McGrath - Credit Suisse
A couple of questions, as far as like the language you talked about as far as revenue growth, how much of that or what color can you give about how much of it is from these new service offerings you're talking about?
John Adair
The revenue growth in 2010?
Bryan McGrath - Credit Suisse
John Adair
This is really focused on is driven by the customers we've sold in the prior period, and that's really the single biggest factor in revenue growth. It's unlikely that any of the new services will contribute materially to 2010 revenue growth.
Bryan McGrath - Credit Suisse
We've kind of touched on it, but I'm just trying to get a sense of how decoupled what your revenue growth expectations are from kind of the broader I guess consensus macro view? Like you said, I think you said on average unemployment is going to top out of 10.5%, but of course the opinions vary and it could get lot worse, but it seems like you have some real hard data as far as what's going on in your pipeline. I wonder, if you could give us a rough idea of how varied do you think your expectations are going to be if the economy changes wildly?
John Adair
So that's a tough question to answer only because it's purely and utterly speculative. I think that, if you look at the beginning of fiscal 2009 for us, which happened to coincide with the financial services sector meltdown and the economy really starting to decline precipitously. I don't think anybody at that time could have pegged exactly what would happen in the next 12 months with any level of accuracy.
I do think that unemployment obviously has a direct impact on us, but I think that there are levels of unemployment that are beyond just an equational impact from unemployment to us. I think that if you look at unemployment rates and say when was the last time unemployment in this country was ever above 12%, and I think you would have to go back to the depression to reach that number. So I think a lot of this is if unemployment rises precipitously, I think that you have much more significant problems to deal with.
From our point of view, one of the things I love about our business is that we have a lot of visibility into what we're doing and so we have the capacity in the environment where things change dramatically for the worst in a broad macro basis that we can make appropriate adjustments in our business. So I'm not worried about our ability to be highly profitable and manage the business to be successful in virtually any environment.
Your next question comes from Brad Whitt - Broadpoint Capital.
Brad Whitt - Broadpoint Capital
John, it looks like the R&D jumped up more than we expected this quarter. Is that kind of the base level we should think about going forward or is there anything unusual in the September quarter?
John Adair
Brad, nothing unusual, base point of the central themes that Steve talked to in his prepared remarks is the fact that we're making significant investments in R&D and in new product offerings. We're looking towards the future opportunities for the business. Certainly, as we look at the opportunities in EMEA, we are building out product and offerings that afford us the opportunity to go deeper and deeper into these markets, and there's a lot, you will continue to see us as we have in the past invest for heavily in R&D. That level should not be considered unusual for our run rate going forward.
Brad Whitt - Broadpoint Capital
I see now that probably includes the Etap acquisition.
John Adair
That's right.
Brad Whitt - Broadpoint Capital
Steve, could you kind of remind us again what you consider quote, unquote your steady rates of revenue growth?
Steve Singh
The steady state target that we obviously had been shooting after is 25%, and obviously prior to fiscal 2009, it was relatively consistent for us, so that's our steady state target.
Brad Whitt - Broadpoint Capital
Have you made any changes to your strategy in fiscal '09 or going forward as far as how you charge for travel booking? I mean, are you bundling that more and more and just making that part of the basic service or and going even there?
Steve Singh
I'd answer that question in two different components. First of all, we had many changes to our strategy. We have got a very focused strategy and how we deliver Concur Travel & Expense, that pricing and delivery model hasn't changed at all since we introduced the product a couple years ago. In the most recent quarter, in fact the last several quarters more than 60% of new deals signed were for both travel and expense. I think that is the way I would look at this.
Brad Whitt - Broadpoint Capital
Last question, I noticed a lot of Silicon Valley companies kind of withdrew executive bonuses in '09, and are now expecting that to come back in 2010. How do you characterize executive bonus situation there Concur this year versus next fiscal year?
Steve Singh
By in large if we don't speak to confrontation for the company. I think that the right focus point I pointed to is that, we delivered 15% top line growth, 33% pro forma operating margin, and I think the company has performed exceptionally well, and then obviously the philosophy of how we compensate or not just the executives is our company, in fact the executive compensation is detailed exactly the same way that every other person in the company is compensated.
So if for some reason, the bonuses aren't paid, it's not just not paid to the rank and file of the company, it's also not paid to the executives we're all in the same pool. We actually detailed this compensation philosophy out in our proxy statement.
Your next question comes from Sid Parakh - McAdams Wright Ragen.
Sid Parakh - McAdams Wright Ragen
I think my questions here, just a question on the buyer behavior. As the economy has stabilized, have you seen some of the buyers maybe buy more products like some of the other kind of more across selling type stuff?
Steve Singh
We certainly have seen more cross selling over the course of the last couple of years obviously, in part because, we're delivering great value add services that are helping reduce the operating costs for our customers and improve the end user experience so also in part because that's been a focus point for us as well, and so I think that that's part of our near term growth initiatives is continuing to cross sell new value added services into our existing customer base.
Sid Parakh - McAdams Wright Ragen
What I'm trying to see is from a macroeconomic perspective since everybody is feeling better I mean are they even buying more or is that really not much of a factor?
Steve Singh
I think, it's hard to make generalizations, Sid, but I guess what I would pointed to is that if you look at the number of customers that bought travel and expense in the quarter it was 60%. If you look at the last several quarters it has actually been in that same ballpark. So you could argue that we're seeing customers pick up additional services when they initially buy.
In addition, to that if you look at the financial services sector, for example, in 2009, it was our single biggest vertical for bookings. Some of those customers were brand new customers. Some were existing customers who bought additional services from us.
Sid Parakh - McAdams Wright Ragen
I think the message you're trying to get through the call was, that you do believe at some point in the future your steady straight growth rate could be higher and I think you mentioned that John mentioned it can you maybe elaborate on why do you feel that way and is it purely from an existing product standpoint or is it a significant expansion of where you are today?
Steve Singh
I think that there's an opportunity for better than steady state growth, and I emphasize the word opportunity. Any time that you've materially improve the growth rates of the business you've got to invest against that improvement. I outlined in the call fairly extensively the areas that we're actually investing. They include the following. Number one, obviously we think that mobile is a very significant opportunity for our company. It represents incremental revenue and margin opportunity.
Number two is, we think that Concur Advantage Services represents incremental revenue and margin. We also think that emerging markets, so companies that are between one and 250 employees on a global basis represents significant growth opportunities and earnings opportunities. In addition to that, we also think that there is a tremendous opportunity to continue to expand in Europe and Asia just in our core business, in our core markets, so I continue to go after what is fundamentally an under penetrated market opportunity.
Sid Parakh - McAdams Wright Ragen
Just last question for me, from a CFO search standpoint, it seems like the emphasis is on an external candidate. Is that the way we should think about it?
Steve Singh
Sid, I'm not going to comment a lot on the exact process we'll go through. Obviously, we will use an external and in fact have already engaged an external search firm. We will look at external candidates and also internal candidates, but I think John said it very well. I think we are in a very fortunate position that we've got an incredible business that is doing very well that we can have a very thorough and planned transition. So we'll look at all the different candidates that are available to us and find the person who is not only the most qualified individual for that role, but also a tremendous cultural fit.
Your final question comes from Harish Parwani - Jeffries.
Harish Parwani - Jeffries
I am wondering if you can quantify if there was any significant impact from FX in the quarter.
Steve Singh
Yes. The FX impact in the quarter wouldn't quantify as significant. We have certainly seen volatility over this last year, but the FX impact in Q4 was I wouldn't characterize it as significant.
Harish Parwani - Jeffries
Then looking at your balance sheet, do you have almost $5 of cash per share and I think you guys have done a great job in detailing the new investments coming next year. So wondering apart from those, any other thoughts on share buybacks? Are you guys still open for M&A or does that take that off the table?
Steve Singh
I think the way we look at it first and foremost our priorities is investment in the business against growth opportunities that we can uniquely leverage and we can drive great profitable growth. That's priority number one. In addition to that obviously we want to put our capital by the way that investment in the business is typically entirely paid for out of cash flows from the business. Priority number two is obviously look at the cash that we have in the balance sheet and say, what is the best way to use it in our view there are three priorities.
It is repurchase of shares, pay down of debt, which at this point we have done to speak of, and M&A where the M&A makes great sense for our business, and I think that you already have examples of the kind of M&A that we're interested in if you just look at the deals we have done over the last eight years. So those are the priorities and we go after each of those priorities, honestly on a very real time basis and make judgment calls in each of those with the best information that we have at the time.
Harish Parwani - Jeffries
Last one from me is AMEX relationship if I understand correctly the middle market segment part of that strategy will kick in probably towards the latter half of this fiscal year. I mean is it fair to assume that the new customers you sign in a quarter which was a little way under this quarter is going to significantly jump when that part of the market starts kicking in?
Steve Singh
Yes. I would tell you that it would be a lot easier for me to answer that committee after the fact. So we're very excited about the AMEX relationship. We think it has tremendous growth opportunities for us. Frankly for American Express as well and so our job is execute against that. Once we do, then we'd be happy to walk through the impact of that. So with that, I'm going to wrap up the call. I can truly appreciate the time of all of our investors and John and I look forward to updating you again on the next earnings call. Thank you very much.
This concludes today's conference call. You may now disconnect.
Copyright policy: All transcripts on this site are the copyright of Seeking Alpha. However, we view them as an important resource for bloggers and journalists, and are excited to contribute to the democratization of financial information on the Internet. (Until now investors have had to pay thousands of dollars in subscription fees for transcripts.) So our reproduction policy is as follows: You may quote up to 400 words of any transcript on the condition that you attribute the transcript to Seeking Alpha and either link to the original transcript or to www.SeekingAlpha.com. All other use is prohibited.
If you have any additional questions about our online transcripts, please contact us at: firstname.lastname@example.com. Thank you!


text:
2013 Milwaukee fall movie preview
All films are created equal until you see them. Then the cream rises to the top and the others sink like a stone.
The list below contains some of both, for those opening in Milwaukee from now through the Friday before Thanksgiving. Time will tell which is which. As usual, their release dates are subject to change. »Read Full Article
Lorde to play BMO Harris Pavilion Sept. 26
Local Lorde fans, get ready to give her a royal welcome: The breakout alternative pop artist is coming to the BMO Harris Pavilion on the Summerfest grounds Sept. 26. »Read Full Article(7)
Milwaukee Trolley Loop returns for season
That ding you hear is the sound of the Milwaukee Trolley Loop returning for the season on Thursday.
Two trolleys will service the Hop 'n Shop, Wine 'n Dine route. Rides are $1 per trip. The privately funded service will run from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday through Sept. 6. »Read Full Article(16)
Thursday is the start of Downtown Dining Week
Downtown Dining Week returns Thursday, with three-course menus at lunch for $12.50 and dinner for $25 or $35. It runs through June 12.
Because tables can be hard to get at peak times, it's wise to make reservations. Note that not all restaurants are open for lunch, and not all serve dinner. »Read Full Blog Post
'Shipping Wars' features Mitchell Park Domes dinosaur exhibit
Delivery of the Mitchell Park Domes life-sized dinosaur exhibit will be featured on the season premiere of the A&E series "Shipping Wars" at 9:30 p.m. Tuesday. I've never watched the show, so I have to say I was surprised to see that it's in its sixth season.
The "Dinos Under Glass" exhibit features seven near-life-size dinosaur replicas and runs through November at the Domes, 524 S. Layton Blvd. The episode promises a glimpse of the "how the dinosaurs got here" and their "adventures" on the way." »Read Full Blog Post
Top of the Charts: Iggy Azalea joins Beatles in chart history
Simply making her chart-topping debut on the Billboard Hot 100 was not enough for Iggy Azalea. She wanted to go much bigger. How much? Beatles big. Find out how the Australian rapper matched the Fab Four as she bumped out our three-week winner, John Legend, below. Then, let's look back in time to see which songs were number one this week in 2007, 1997, 1987 and 1977.
No. 1 hit June 2, 2014 »Read Full Blog Post
On Tap Today: Live music in town and the Brewers play the Twins
Live music on the patio and a visit from a baseball team to the north are highlights of this Monday.
The Joe Zarcone Band plays on the courtyard at the Italian Conference Center, part of the courtyard music series scheduled for the summer. The tunes begin at 6 p.m. »Read Full Blog Post

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Additional Information
Cured off the bone, this ham is rubbed with salt and sugar and smoked over real applewood chips.
Inspired by the old-time taste of the heritage pork, we keep our recipe and curing process simple. We never use artificial flavors or liquid smoke.
That's part of the reason why our hams are so incredibly delicious.
Available in two sizes. The petite ham is perfect to keep in the refrigerator for everyday use; snacks, sandwiches, salads and more.
The larger ham will easily satisfy your guests at a special occasion dinner.
Just the facts
- Heritage-breed pork
- Handcrafted ham
- No hormones, no antibiotics
- Cured ham (contains nitrites)
- Fully cooked
- Ready to heat and serve
- Gluten-free
- 5-7 lbs serves 7-10 people
- 1.5-3 lbs serves 3-5 people
- Use within 3-5 days of receipt / see expiration date on package
*USDA regulations prohibit the use of hormones in pork
Our mission is to find farmers that share our vision of a more humane and sustainable way of rearing livestock. We respect our place in the food chain, and see farmers as true stewards of the land and environment. This is why we build real relationships with our farmers, and work only with those who respect nature and focus on the best animal welfare practices.
Our Berkshire hogs are happy hogs, raised by a cooperative of small farms in Missouri at the foot of the Ozark Mountains. This group of about a dozen family farms raises Berkshire and cross breeds, which we refer to simply as "heritage." The hogs are fed on pasture, with access to water and supplemental grain consisting of corn, soybeans and rolled oats. No pesticides, animal by-products or fishmeal are allowed. The majority of the farms are sustainable "circle farms" that raise and grind their own feed for the pigs.
Families of pigs are left together, to forage and frolic outdoors in pasture land. The indoor spaces offer at least 15 square feet of space per animal, and sows are never put in gestation crates.
The cooperative is strict about banning the use of antibiotics and hormones* on each farm and limiting the number of hogs the farms raise. They seek to add another farmer to the cooperative before they add more pigs to any one farm, making the process more humane for all concerned.They are paid a premium for their humanely-raised pork, making the small family farm a profitable business, and proving that there might be a future in the old breeds after all.
*USDA regulations prohibit the use of hormones in pork.
Boneless, easy to serve, and available in two sizes, this ham is not only perfect for a special occasion; it also serves as a weeknight workhorse. Fully cooked, it can be sliced cold for sandwiches or salads, shredded and stirred into grits, or tossed in a jambayala. Keep a petite ham in the refrigerator for quick snacks, and ready garnish for eggs, soups or salads.
This boneless smoked ham is quick and easy to serve—just heat and slice! Available whole (5-7 lbs.), or as a "petite" ham (1.5 - 3 lbs.) that's ideal for smaller gatherings.
You Might Also Like:
Applewood-Smoked Bone-In Heritage Ham$179.99 - $199.99
Truffle Butter & Truffle Oil
Truffle Butter Duo$15.99


text:
Top Definition
Took, bought, acquired, got, stole
Xenophon snapped up a copy of How To Talk To A Liberal (if you must) by Ann Coulter at a grocery store, of all places.
от Chromium 24 юли 2005
Trending Now
Can you define these popular missing words?
To be neatly dressed up.
I am all snapped up and ready to go to that fancy party! (B.L.)
от Carc 26 януари 2016
Coked up beyond reason. Eyes wide open, head tilted back and an expression on the face like going 140mph in a drop top.
Man, I am snapped up.
от Fecalator 27 май 2004


text:
HOUSTON (AP) - The obstetrics unit at Spring Branch Medical Center is set close Dec. 20 after 44 years.
Once a lucrative part of the hospital's practice, delivering newborns has become unprofitable due to a growing number of Medicaid and uninsured patients, soaring malpractice insurance costs and a shrinking pool of physicians.
"This is a situation that has been developing over the last four to five years," said Pat Currie, chief executive officer of the hospital, which is part of the giant HCA hospital chain, based in Nashville, Tenn. "We've just seen declining volumes and, unfortunately, since we have a smaller unit, the increasing cost for malpractice was more than the unit could bear."
This summer, at least half a dozen hospitals across the country closed obstetrics wards because of high liability costs. This spring, more than 800 South Texas doctors protested mushrooming insurance premiums on the Hidalgo County Courthouse steps.
Lawmakers say at least 101 of Texas' 254 counties do not have a licensed obstetrician practicing anywhere in the county.
"I don't think this is going to be an unusual occurrence; I think (Spring Branch Medical Center is) the first in town to take this step. These pressures are there for the hospitals," Dan Finch, director of public affairs at the Harris County Medical Society, told the Houston Chronicle for its Saturday editions.
At Spring Branch Medical Center, a number of factors led administrators to their decision, with liability and low volume leading the list. Malpractice insurance for individual obstetricians is $80,000 to $150,000, up 100 to 200 percent from last year.
The hospital's $600,000 premium for labor and delivery liability was set to increase by 67 percent next year. By shutting down the 30-bed ward, which was never full in recent years, the hospital will save $1 million in premiums, plus thousands more it would spend giving free care to the uninsured.
It will make more room for patients undergoing surgery or other procedures, Currie said.
The hospital will continue offering women's gynecological services.
In 2001, only 1,003 babies were born at Spring Branch Medical Center, down from 1,400 in 1998.
The hospital lost large numbers of pregnant patients when key physicians retired or relocated. When the hospital tried to recruit new obstetricians, it lost four doctors within five years because they could not build solid practices based on the area's demographics, Currie said.
Situated 20 years ago in a neighborhood that was once "mainstream, middle-class Houston," said longtime Spring Branch obstetrician Stephen Guilliams, the hospital now serves a stratified population of affluent, older residents with private insurance, and a large number of immigrants who are on Medicaid or uninsured.
© 2016. All Rights Reserved. | Contact Us


text:
42 years of experience
Accepting new patients
Video profile
Mesa, AZ 85202 Phone number & directions
Patient Reviews
Patient Reviews ? Write a Review
Overall Rating:
Total Ratings
Total Reviews
I was surprised to read the other reviews posted here. I REFUSED to have this physician touch me again after having repair surgery from his first botched job. Regardless of the awards he received, my experience is that his bedside manner is HORRIBLE. He will lecture you during the whole visit if you are over weight, smoke, or are anything less than rich and white. I am still having incontinence issues and am traumatized after my experience with this physician. He is way past needing to retire. I would NEVER send anyone to him. On a more positive note, the staff did a good job.
Dr. Burton performed my hysterectomy with A&P repair and bladder suspension in the fall of 2010. He did an amazing job. I would recommend him to anyone seeking a highly professional and qualified GYN surgeon. He performed adequate testing to make sure all the repairs he was recommended were truly needed and that he wasn't missing anything. He explained exactly what he'd be doing and what outcomes I might expect. He did a wonderful job on the surgery and I've had results far above my expectactions. I've had friends who had this same surgery prior to and since mine who have not had good results. I feel if they'd seen Dr. Burton they too would have positive outcomes. I don't think you'll find a better GYN surgeon in the Phoenix area. Thank you Dr. Burton for restoring my health and vitality!
Dr Burton listened to my problems and actually did testing to confirm that what I was saying was true unlike other doctors who told me it was "all in my head" and to live with the problem. The staff is wonderful and treats you as a person and not a number. Would highly recommend.


text:
St. Elizabeth's Health Center is a faith-based community health center that supports the healthcare needs of the uninsured and underserved in Southern Arizona. We commit to provide high quality healthcare with respect and dignity by responding to individual needs and encouraging health and well-being.
St. Elizabeth's Health Center is a Federal Tort Claims Act Deemed Facility.


text:
Northstar Solutions inc.
This project has been awarded to Wolsheg for $240 USD.Get free quotes for a project like this
Awarded to:
Skills Required
Project Budget$240 USD
Total Bids1
Project Description
I'm Looking for Company that would like to outsource.
Can you add me on skype [url removed, login to view] email robbie@[url removed, login to view]
Looking to make some money?
- Set your budget and the timeframe
- Outline your proposal
- Get paid for your work
Hire Freelancers who also bid on this project
Looking for work?
Work on projects like this and make money from home!Sign Up Now
- Forbes
- The New York Times
- Time
- Wall Street Journal
- Times Online


text:
Town Square
Sort by: Most recent topic/comment Most viewed Most comments
Navigation tip: Clicking on any category label will display all recent posts in that category
SCHOOLS & KIDSIs anyone else excited about the end of the school year?
I can't believe another school year has come and gone. Although my children are grown, I still share in the excitement of...Original post made by firstname.lastname@example.com on Jun. 8, 2007
There are no comments yet. 2139 Views
RESTAURANTSIs anyone else excited about the end of the school year?
I can't believe another school year has come and gone. Although my children are grown, I still share in the excitement of...Original post made by firstname.lastname@example.com on Jun. 8, 2007
Last comment by Mary, on Jun 12, 2007 at 7:50 pm | 1 comment | 3468 Views
AROUND TOWNSuzette McFadden is Grooming Pets in San Ramon
For those of you looking for 5 ***** pet grooming services look no further, Suzette is back in town! You can find her working...Original post made by Deborah on Jan. 18, 2008
Last comment by Deborah, on Apr 20, 2008 at 11:21 pm | 2 comments | 2262 Views
AROUND TOWNDog Adoptions now at NICIA'S PET DEPOT in San Ramon
Nicia's Pet Depot is pleased to announce adoption days with White Kitty Foundation. Please support this wonderful organization...Original post made by Deborah on Jul. 20, 2008
There are no comments yet. 2049 Views
AROUND TOWNSettlement reached in suit involving Danville mom accused of spitting on student
[Post removed due to possible copyright infringement] ...Original post made by debra m. on Apr. 17, 2010
Last comment by jrm, on Apr 21, 2010 at 11:12 am | 10 comments | 1728 Views
Where is the coverage of the 2030 General Plan DEIR meeting?...Original post made by Dee on Nov. 30, 2012
Last comment by Darcy, on Dec 3, 2012 at 11:39 am | 1 comment | 799 Views
SCHOOLS & KIDSDeeply Saddened by Teacher Movements at Bollinger Elementary
I am incredibly saddened by the teacher movements that are going on at Bollinger Elementary. My daughter thrived this year...Original post made by Deeply Saddened on Jun. 12, 2015
Last comment by Which teacher?, on Jun 12, 2015 at 8:36 am | 1 comment | 340 Views
STATE, NATIONAL, INTERNATIONALRun Sarah Run !
Whoops, I guess not. It seems Caribou Barbie has announced today she will not be making a run with the rest of the Bat$#!%...Original post made by Derek on Oct. 5, 2011
Last comment by the dogfather, on Oct 5, 2011 at 5:43 pm | 1 comment | 1390 Views
STATE, NATIONAL, INTERNATIONALSarah Palin TV - Broadcasting Now !
Is this crazy headline for real? You betch'a - http://www.salon.com/2014/08/11/welcome_to_tv_hell_8_things_you_learn_watching_sarah_palins_insane_new_channel_partner/...Original post made by Derek on Aug. 11, 2014
There are no comments yet. 573 Views
AROUND TOWNLyndon LaRouche NutJobs Spotted
For the second time in the last few weeks, I noticed a pair of fringe types planting themselves on - and illegally blocking...Original post made by Derek on Sep. 10, 2011
Last comment by Derek, on Sep 16, 2011 at 10:19 am | 19 comments | 2377 Views
AROUND TOWNKB Homes: Wrecking our hillsides one acre at a time
Perhaps a story ran here on D.E. a while back about this, but I am curious how many of my fellow Danville-ites are aware...Original post made by Derek on Mar. 1, 2012
Last comment by Maria B., on May 7, 2015 at 10:12 am | 40 comments | 3985 Views
AROUND TOWNAnother Hideous Scar on the West Hills
As I was heading back northward on 680 from a errand this morning, I saw a huge crane digging what looked like a road cut...Original post made by Derek on Mar. 28, 2013
Last comment by Sarah, on Apr 7, 2013 at 6:16 pm | 24 comments | 2787 Views
AROUND TOWNKB Homes are Da' Bomb
While I am reasonably certain our west hills were never the site of an artillery range, this little video story does make...Original post made by Derek on Oct. 22, 2013
There are no comments yet. 2999 Views
AROUND TOWNA Man with Bibles
This afternoon at Osage, a jovial sixty-ish man was passing out small scripture booklet, Assumedly they were an ultra-condensed...Original post made by Derek on Feb. 5, 2015
There are no comments yet. 346 Views
AROUND TOWNIs your water tasting better?
I have noticed over the last week or so that the nasty dirt/mold aura seems to have gone away. The tap water is actually...Original post made by Derek on Oct. 26, 2015
Last comment by oh!riley, on Oct 27, 2015 at 8:54 am | 1 comment | 204 Views
AROUND TOWNto Geoff Gillette, possible africanized bees
Hi Geoff- I am not sure who to address this to, but we saw something rather scary around 3:30 this afternoon (Tuesday,...Original post made by derek on Jun. 7, 2016
Last comment by Geoff Gillette, on Jun 8, 2016 at 4:00 pm | 2 comments | 631 Views
CRIMES & INCIDENTSIncident at Baldwin Elementary, Thursday the 17th
Around 6:15 or so last Thursday, we noticed two Danville police sequestering four older teenagers in Baldwin Elementary School's...Original post made by Derek on Sep. 22, 2009
There are no comments yet. 1936 Views
CRIMES & INCIDENTSAnyone hear a loud gunshot by Trader Joes?
Last night, Sunday the 26th, around 7:00pm, we were going into Trader Joe's. We heard what sounded like a 10- or 12-gauge...Original post made by Derek on Dec. 27, 2010
There are no comments yet. 1649 Views
CRIMES & INCIDENTSSuspicious Vehicle in Brookside / Osage Area
Please note that a Charlotte Wood middle school student reporting being apparently followed by two men, driving "a dark blue...Original post made by Derek on Jan. 11, 2013
Last comment by Derek, on Jan 11, 2013 at 2:47 pm | 1 comment | 1467 Views
CRIMES & INCIDENTS32 I-Pads Stolen from Baldwin Elementary
Just had a conversation with my neighbor lady, and apparently thirty-some I-pads were stolen last night (Tuesday the 14th)...Original post made by Derek on Jan. 15, 2014
There are no comments yet. 2246 Views
Mark Davis clearly is serious about Sin City Raiders
By Tim Hunt | 2 comments | 681 views
Next Up, The Election Props -- but first this word: We're Number One!
By Tom Cushing | 3 comments | 391 views


text:
Shock: Conan Goes to TBS!
Boom!By Lane Brown
Boom!By Lane Brown
Plus: Barbarians! Dirty politicians!By Adam K. Raymond
They're really committed to those 'Seinfeld' reruns.By Adam K. Raymond
Plus: Tyler Labine joins 'True Love.'By Josh Duboff
Not for the right reason, though.By Jessica Pressler
The movie is still on and a spinoff is still possible.By Adam K. Raymond
Conan O'Brien is still in talks with Fox for a new late-night show at the network, but according to Chevy Chase, he might as well just enjoy an early retirement.By Matthew Perpetua
Offer comes as O'Brien resumes talks with the network about the possibility of a new show.By Josh Duboff
Sorry, Gleeks.By Adam K. Raymond
"These are the final episodes, so if some of your name people would like to do something on the show, this is the time for them to do it."By Lane Brown
'Avatar' fans hoping for an extras-packed 3-D DVD or Blu-ray will have to be patient.By Matthew Perpetua
Plus: Anne Hathaway to fall for Jim Sturgess after a while.By Lane Brown
'24' movie is still a go.By Josh Duboff
Some kid didn't know what a hemidemisemiquaver is.By Adam K. Raymond
Wait a second, is that George Oscar Bluth?By Adam K. Raymond
"I'm fairly certain that there hasn't been an approach at any time for Howard to do the show."By Lane Brown
Don't worry. He's going to be fine.By Adam K. Raymond
The asking price is $35 million, but we bet you could talk him down to a caviar-splattered Picasso.By Lane Brown
Surely this can't be right.By Lane Brown
It officially passed 'Titanic' to become the highest-grossing picture in the history of the United States.By Mark Graham


text:
The typical life expectancy of a roof covering is Three Decade – offered it was sound with high quality content. Roofing systems are nevertheless, vulnerable to weather problems because they are one of the most unveiled part of a home so most of the time, roof coverings need repairs in some components.
Taking care of your roofing system is vital. Doing repair services when essential avoid leaks in wet climate. Leakages lead to the development of wetness that can harm the wooden structure of the house. Not waiting up until it is far too late to have repair works done will certainly also conserve you great deals of money.
For lots of DIY people, the most evident point to do is to fix the roofing themselves. Yet roofing repairs, it should be kept in mind, can be rather challenging and also unless you are a professional roofer on your own, you should involve terms with that you may have to employ a professional roofing Toronto contractor.
In the following short file, you will certainly figure out useful reasons that roofing repair jobs need to be entrusted to the experts only, the advantages of employing a roofing contractor and also the 5 important points you should know prior to calling the local roof firm.
Should You Do It Yourself?
Many individuals pick DIY repair works since it saves a great deal of cash, and also it can be fun often. However, there are just some tasks that need to be taken care of just by professional contractors and roof covering repair work is just one of these.
There are bunches of errors that one who is not experienceded in doing roofing system repair jobs can commit … As well as these errors can be truly pricey or even deadly!
The adhering to are the most usual errors DIY individuals commit when it comes to roofing system repairs:
They neglect security precautions
Roof covering repairs as well as installments is one of the most unsafe occupations of all time. There are a lot of threats associated with it such as drops, tool risks, injuries like puncture wounds and cuts, electrical and fire dangers and all-natural dangers like strong winds, ice as well as lightning. Is it worth it to lose limb or life just to conserve a small amount of money?
1. Bolts wind up in the wrong place
Just one bolt out of place can cost you numerous dollars plus even more repair services. This error is conveniently prevented if you recognize what you're doing or if you employed someone who does.
2. They acquire the wrong roof
A poor selection in roofing system enhances the dangers currently linked to roofing repair jobs. Metal roofings end up being unsafe with the smallest quantity of dampness and also asphalt roofing systems call for a particular incline to avoid leaks. Mentioning slopes, there are needs that need to be thought about and also just a roofing professional recognizes these.
Blunders in roof covering repair works or installations will lead to the necessity of changing the system once again, hence the have to spend more cash. Additional expenses can be stayed clear of by hiring a trusted roof business.
Why It Is Best to Hire an Expert Roofer
Other than the avoidance of blunders and also unnecessary expenditures, there are various other advantages to hiring an expert roofing contractor:
– The best sort of roofing system is made use of. Considering that there are several types of roof materials (metal, steel panels, timber drinks, asphalt roof shingles, clay ceramic tiles, rubber slates, etc.), picking the appropriate one could obtain complex. By hiring a professional roofer, you are exempted from making blunders that you'll quickly regret.
– The old roof content is appropriately gotten rid of. Bulk of professional roofer will cover everything from getting rid of the old roof, changing it and disposing of the old content.
– Professional installment. You make certain that the roof is set up safely and also weather tight.
– Damages to the roof system is avoided. Roofers have scaffoldings that they use to fix or mount roofs without inflicting damage to various other parts of the roofing or home.
– Your contractor will certainly assist you determine if a new roof has to be set up or if some repair works are all it takes.
– Obtain advice on the side. Good recommendations on roof covering treatment is a bonus offer you obtain from your professional roofer. An expert contractor could share you ways to take care of one of the most unwrapped part of your home and guarantee that it will last as long as it can.
Roofing repair is not as straightforward a task as many may believe. There are bunches of tiny information that must be considered if you want your roofing to become excellent as new. A trustworthy specialist can aid you determine just what should be done and also just how much everything will certainly cost you. Check here for more info.


text: MainStoriesUkraine Football Fever Ukraine Football Fever Andrii Pidvarko | May 22, 2014 | Europe Eurasia: Ukraine The Finals of the Special Olympics Ukraine Unified Football Tournament matched the height of excitement and tension of the Ukrainian Football Cup Final 2013/14 held on the very same day. Only a spring shower on the first day of the competitions calmed the passion of the hundreds of participants gathered from six regions of the country in Zhytomyr city from May 15 – 16. Athletes and Unified partners came from Poltava, Cherkassy, Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, Zaporizhia and Zhytomyr regions, and were assisted by volunteers from Zhytomyr Agrotechnical College. The Mykolaiv region team became the winner among the female teams, while the team from the Zaporizhia region won in the top male division, with the team from Zhytomyr city winning in the lower division. Referees from the Ukraine Football Federation and the Zhytomyr regional state TV Company announced the competitions to the whole of Ukraine. Participants enjoyed the hospitality of Zhytomyr Hotels and refreshments by Coca Cola. About Me:I am National Director for Special Olympics Ukraine. Read More Stories He no longer fears dentistsGenevieve JiangVisiting a dental clinic made Bhavya Jain very anxious. Special Olympics helped.From shy and isolated, to confident leaderGenevieve JiangBefore Punsara Dissanayake joined Special Olympics Serendib, she was reluctant to attend school as she feared being bullied.Medical help gave her winning edgeGenevieve JiangJohn Lucas: From Introvert to Spokesman in BrazilCaroline ChevatA Special Olympics athlete took part in the signing of an agreement between Special Olympics and the International Volleyball Federation.Special Olympics Saved my Life!Marquis Antwan GarnerJuan Atilio: Overcoming prejudiceLeilani GonzalezMaking a Difference in India and NepalDavid HircockThank You, Special Olympics LouisianaJude and Paula BernardAgreement in Italy Will Boost Inclusion and RespectMaureen RabbittBelgium Athlete Addresses Experts at European ForumMartha Jo BraycichMy Coaches Were There For MeCarla SimonDo You Have A Story to Share?Share Your Story More Stories


text:
Orlando Ballet will present a trio of new shows, along with mainstay "The Nutcracker," and pay tribute to philanthropist Harriett Lake during its 2016-17 season. Robert Hill, the troupe's artistic director, revealed the season lineup during performances of "Beauty & the Beast" this weekend.
"This season will be like nothing Ballet patrons have seen in the past," he said.
Live orchestral accompaniment is planned for most mainstage productions, a ballet spokeswoman said, although those details have not been finalized.
"Dracula" will open the upcoming season, which also will include a program of works by noted choreographers...


text:
A heartening advance
Henrico Doctors' Hospital physician Charles Zacharias shows a patient video of the patient's own heart, as seen during an earlier procedure conducted as part of the hospital's TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) program. HCA Virginia is the only hospital in the region to offer the minimally-invasive, non-surgical procedure, which provides a therapeutic alternative for patients with severe aortic stenosis who have previously been deemed inoperable.
The hospital hosted an open house Sept. 5 to demonstrate the procedure, which has already been used on five patients who otherwise could not have received the life-saving assistance they needed.
Reynolds CC to host sculptor Paul DiPasquale
Reynolds Community College will host Richmond sculptor Paul DiPasquale Sept. 28 as he shares his presentation "Art Talk, Why Art Matters" from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Conference Center Gallery of the Workforce Development and Conference Center on the Parham Road Campus, located at 1651 E. Parham Road in Richmond. This event is free and open to the public. > Read more.
Free children's clothing for those in need
The Children's Clothing Closet at Highland Springs United Methodist Church will be open Saturday, Aug. 27 and Tuesday, Aug. 30 to provide free new or nearly new children's clothing for families in need, prior to the start of the school year. The Clothing Closet will be open from 10 a.m. to noon both days. The church is located at 22 North Holly Avenue. > Read more.
Weekend Top 10
For our Top 10 calendar events this weekend, click here! > Read more.
Henrico to offer four home maintenance workshops
Glen Allen Day in photos
No one injured in Eastern Henrico shed fire
Business in brief
Tuckahoe meeting Sept. 28 to detail bond referendum projects
- More News
Print Edition
Sep. 15, 2016Click here to read the print edition.
Weekend Top 10
Weekend Top 10
Weekend Top 10
Deadline nears for 'Henrico Live' ticket purchase
CAT Theatre announces cast for October show
- More Entertainment
Obituary – Mildred Terrell Tate
Obituary – Stephen Embry Esbach
Obituary – Harry Strachan Hobson
- More Obituaries
Reynolds CC to host sculptor Paul DiPasquale
Free children's clothing for those in need
Local choral group seeks volunteers
- More Community
Storm woes for e-junkies
'Good old days' were good – for some
Of character and parenting
- More Opinions
RIR to admit children 12 and younger free next year
Henrico teams win district, state championships
Varina HS to host Basketball Skill Development Academy June 20-23
- More Sports
Reader Survey | Advertising | Email updates
Place an Ad | More Classifieds
CalendarLewis Ginter Botanical Garden will celebrate Rose Fest from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Rose Garden. Walk through winding paths of 1,800 roses and enjoy music and other activities. The Latin Ballet of Virginia will perform at 12:15 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. Children can make paper roses in the Children's Garden. Rose Fest is included with Garden admission which is $13 for adults, $11 for seniors 55+ and $8 for children 3-12. For details, visit http://www.lewisginter.org. Full text


text:
U.S. education fast facts map
Posted: 12:46 AM EDT Apr 25, 2013 Updated: 7:59 AM EST Nov 17, 2015
This week is national education week. This week honors those hard working, patient and understanding people whom we entrust our children to. Learn a few things about school yourself. Check out how schools in your state compare to others around the country.
The views expressed are not those of this company or its affiliated companies. Please note by clicking on "Post" you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the TERMS OF USE and the comment you are posting is in compliance with such terms. Your comments may be used on air. Please be polite. Inappropriate posts and those containing links to other sites may be removed by the moderator. Desktop and mobile versions of this site use independent comment threads.


text:
Artist Name : Chnar
Top Albums : www.Dastan.se
Tags : all about you jeremih exo selena gomez love you like a love take me to the church garasi a prophecy asking alexandria sia 21 savage christina perry navio tag youre the beatles
Mp3bulb.com is only a music search engine & does not host any files on it's own server.
For DMCA complaints please contact at report [at] Mp3bulb.com We will remove your content within 48Hrs.
Mp3bulb - Free Mp3 Downloads


text:
About this community
Magnum Commissions system is helped Pine Tree State to create My initial 1K every week due to Jamie Lewis wine bottle Commissions Formula! Of the numerous ways in which will bring the come of physical web is that the plan of ??selling commission wherever replete with the net an outsized range of corporations and people UN agency area unit seeking to sell merchandise on-line commission and every one you wish is to search out a website} that gives sale commission large integer shalt take lots to adopt a site around displays Item Bmmizzatha whether or not goods tangible or intangible, then you are promoting this website} Pollack ways of info on the net and once it enters a visitant site to review options Item and decides to get presses Link purchase is regenerate commission mechanically you on one in every of the banks electronic or ancient the thought, therefore, is that you simply lead the visitant from your {site|website|web website}} to site Item to shop for from the initial site, that successively verify the party that came from the shopper to pay commission to the current facet or the owner of the positioning, that attracts guests it's price mentioning that the technology pursuit clicks on the net has evolved dramatically will holder any website that identifies UN agency return from guests and therefore the range and whereabouts and their countries that expedited the topic of sales commission. And supports building a sales commission on a special link or a special code provides it the corporate to the positioning owner, UN agency needs to figure commission together with her and once inserting web site|the web site} owner this code within the position shown Link to the corporate website theme is so-it in English (referral link) the number of cash that an individual can do this the system doesn't have a most or minimum, however it depends on the talent of e-marketing, that Imklha merchant UN agency is promoting the positioning and therefore the range of tourists UN agency area unit ready to purchase on the talents of elect item and determine the audience and therefore the breadth of the market, provide and demand on the item and every one skills will be learned in but a month and months sites that show sale commission is Clickbank with wine bottle Commissions .


text:
Hartlands are proud to introduce the newest carriage in our range - the Piccolo. This carriage is designed to take upto 2 adults and a dog - if yours likes going driving with you, It has been designed to take upto 200kg of weight. This carriage can be on pneumatic or solid wheels and is avaliable in two wheel sizes to suit a single upto 12hh or a pair of smaller ponies. These carriages are incredibly light weight from 106kg and have fully independant trailing arm suspension, so they are incredibly stable and comfortable. They are avaliable in a range of colours and feature a large double front seat and rear disc brakes as standard. Perfect as a pleasure and excercising vehicle for small ponies
These carriages comes complete with a set of cut back loop front shafts and a sprung adjustable pole.
PRICE From: £1750 + VAT


text:
Find rare treasures at Saturday's Tri State Antique Show at Rainbow Gardens
Looking for that hard-to-find, highly sought-after piece to make your collection complete?
Bring your discerning eye and a wallet full of cash to the spring Tri State Antique Show on Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Waldameer Park's Rainbow Gardens. The annual event will include more than 50 dealers selling everything from vintage jewelry to old Elvis Presley vinyl records.
Door prizes, provided by dealers and Kiwanis members, will be given away throughout the day. Shoppers can also purchase a bite to eat for breakfast or lunch at the kitchen area.
The antique show, which draws about 600 to 800 people, is sponsored by the Millcreek Kiwanis and the East Erie County Kiwanis. Another antique show is planned for the fall, said longtime organizer Ray Redfoot.
Bummed that you didn't reserve a vendor spot? It's not too late. Potential vendors have until the day of the sale to grab a spot. Just call Redfoot at 868-2324.


text:
Because it doesnt fit your narrative!!!!"
You seem to think that the scripture does not say that all the Apostles received it. It just doesn't fit your narrative. Neither does the fact that Peter never hoards it over any of the others, or that Christians themselves are 'stones' making up the church, and that Christ is the chief cornerstone, not Peter, who, interestingly enough, is the one pointing out all these things.
You probably even think the Apostles had the right to forgive sins!
I like Jerome's exposition of the matter:
Against the judicial Power of the Priests in forgiving Sins.
The bishops and priests not understanding that passage, assume to themselves somewhat of the arrogance of the Pharisees, so far as to imagine that they may condemn the innocent or absolve the guilty, whereas with God, it is not the sentence of the priests, but the life* of the guilty that is looked into. We read in Leviticus concerning the lepers, where they were commanded to show themselves to the priests, in order that if they had a leprosy, they might be made unclean by the priests : not that the priests made them lepers and unclean, but be cause they knew who were lepers and who were not, and could dis cover who were clean and who were unclean. In the same manner therefore as the priest there made a man clean or unclean, so here the bishop or priest either binds or loosens, not those who are innocent or guilty, but officially, when he has heard the nature of their sins, he knows who is to be bound and who is to be loosened. On the 16th chap, of Mat. vol. 6.
Just remember that you would not even have a Bible to quote from if it were not for the Catholic Church, Monks, and Friars saving the scripture from destruction during the medieval times.
Also, the reason I asked you what time it was where you are located because the very clock and calendat you use was developed as the Gregorian Calendar, yes...Pope Gregory.
The very Corporate Structure of Companies is derived from the Catholic structure, (Pope=President, Cardinals= Board of Directors, Bishops= Vice Presidents, etc. The very Senate and Congress representative structure we have in our country is derived from the Holy Roman Senate structure...
You cannot escape all the things Catholicism brought to the modern world and its influence.
I dont recall in history, written or recorded anywhere, a reference to a Baptist Church except maybe after the 17th Century.
It all came from Catholicism!!!


text:
Email Marketing.
This project received 10 bids from talented freelancers with an average bid price of $128 USD.Get free quotes for a project like this
Skills Required
Project Budget$30 - $250 USD
Total Bids10
Project Description
We want you to make banners of our products and Websites, and send them to USA Email address.
We need valid USA Email address.
We will create milestone will pay only after visible results.
Looking to make some money?
- Set your budget and the timeframe
- Outline your proposal
- Get paid for your work
Hire Freelancers who also bid on this project
Looking for work?
Work on projects like this and make money from home!Sign Up Now
- Forbes
- The New York Times
- Time
- Wall Street Journal
- Times Online


text:
Good Amazon / Ebay Seller accounts Holder Needed
This project received 2 bids from talented freelancers with an average bid price of $8 USD / hour.Get free quotes for a project like this
Skills Required
Project Budget$6 - $10 USD / hour
Total Bids2
Project Description
I am looking for 2 people who have Amazon / Ebay seller account with some Good Feedbacks and Reviews.
You will be posting around 3 to 5 auctions per week and monitoring it on amazon /ebay. I will e-mail you the details of products which include images, Description and Key features also keep you updates on Products.
I need people who can post the auction quickly and send regular status updates. Payment will be made via PayPal, Bank Wire or Western Union.
If you're interested, please email us that you can start immediately with our Offer.
You will get good commission up to 25 to 35%. All Amazon / Ebay Charges paid by you.
Thank You
Looking to make some money?
- Set your budget and the timeframe
- Outline your proposal
- Get paid for your work
Hire Freelancers who also bid on this project
Looking for work?
Work on projects like this and make money from home!Sign Up Now
- Forbes
- The New York Times
- Time
- Wall Street Journal
- Times Online


text:
FiltersShow / Hide
- All Events
- Rock & Pop
- Acoustic
- Alternative
- Americana
- Indie
- Metal
- Pop
- Punk
- Rock
- Rock & Roll
- Dance & Urban
- Ambient
- Electronic
- Experimental
- Hip-Hop
- Reggae
- RnB
- Ska
- Jazz & Blues
- Big Band
- Blues
- Easy Listening
- Gospel
- Jazz
- Swing
- Folk, Roots & World
- Celtic
- Country
- Folk
- Latin
- World
- Classical
- Brass
- Choral
- Classical
- Decades
- 50s
- 60s
- 70s
- 80s
- 90s
- Comedy
- Theatre & Arts
- Shows & Events
- Cinema
- Festivals
- Anywhere In The UK
- Location: Anywhere in the UK
Radius: ... miles
This event has been and gone!
Catch the next one:
Check out the info below for future tour dates, and track them to receive alerts when they tour near you
Never miss another 'John Bishop' show
See all dates for Liverpool Comedy Festival
Liverpool Comedy Festival: Rollercoaster: John Bishop
Despite performing to over 400,000 fans in a nationwide sell-out tour, topping the charts with the fastest selling stand-up DVD of all time last year, and regularly broadcasting into the homes of over 6.5m viewers in primetime BBC One show, John Bishop's Britain (deep breath)…the public clearly haven't seen enough of him yet. As, due to overwhelming popular demand, 'Comedy Superstar' John Bishop embarks upon his first ever UK arena tour and makes the official announcement, that he is not…quite…ready for a holiday just yet.
This event takes place at Liverpool Echo Arena, which has achieved Silver Status for disabled access from Attitude Is Everything.
John Bishop
Winner of the City Life Comedian of the Year and a finalist in both the Mercury Comedy Awards and the Daily Telegraph Open Mic Awards. A strong stage presence and life experience make him a comedian who is not afraid to take chances, and this is reflected in his status as one of the best comics in the country.
'One of the most popular comedians in the country' (Mail on Sunday)
'This is a treat' (The Times)
'Hottest stand-up going' Daily Telegraph
'A fabulously gifted comedian' (The Mirror)
'One of this country's biggest comedy stars' (Time Out).
John Bishop tour dates
Track this event
- Event has been added to your calendar
- Any important updates will be sent to your email address
- Add to your personal Ents24 calendar
- Sync with iCal, Outlook and others
- Receive important updates
- 3 people currently track this event
Venue Facts
Venue: Liverpool Echo Arena
Disabled Access: Silver Status
Website: echoarena.com
Phone: 0844 8000 400
Disabled Bookings: 0844 8000 400
Seating Plan: View the Seating Plan
→ James Street 11 min walk
→ Liverpool Central 13 min walk
→ Moorfields 16 min walk


text:
He didn't say when, exactly, but Athens-Clarke County Commissioner Mike Hamby told the dozens of people gathered for this week's Federation of Neighborhoods meeting that traffic-flow improvements will be coming to the Atlanta Highway corridor between the western county line and Georgia Square mall.
Hamby came to Monday's meeting with a fresh concept drawing — prepared by county government staff earlier that day — showing how the various roads and parking lots behind the strip malls, big-box stores and gas stations lining Atlanta Highway between Ben Burton Road and the Georgia Square access road could be linked.
The drawing showed that getting those segments connected — there are some places where they are separated by curbing and other impediments — could allow patrons of businesses along that section of Atlanta Highway to get into and out of the area at the existing signalized intersections. Providing that option could eliminate one frustration for shoppers visiting the corridor — the near-impossibility of making a left turn onto the highway.
"We're going to make it happen," Hamby said, joking with former county commissioner Carl Jordan, who was in Monday's audience and said he'd been hearing similar conversations for 15 years, that changes would come to the corridor before Jordan died.
In the meantime, there are some hopeful signs of revitalization along the corridor, according to a panel comprising Hamby, Commissioner Jerry NeSmith, developer David Dwyer and Georgia Square mall general manager Michael Carey.
In line with a recommendation from an Urban Land Institute study that suggests focusing on the mall as a means of revitalizing the corridor, Carey and others on the panel noted the New Year's fireworks show and a planned Fourth of July event that will include music, fireworks and a host of activities, as a response to that suggestion.
In addition, Carey pointed out that the mall was able to persuade two businesses, the rue21 clothing store and Men's Wearhouse, that had been contemplating leaving the corridor, to relocate instead to the mall.
Also according to Carey, 94 percent of the mall's space is under lease, and new landscaping and renovation of mall entrances are planned.
In other comments Monday, Dwyer and Hamby urged the crowd not to succumb to what Dwyer called "Oconee envy," in the wake of recent moves of some Atlanta Highway retailers — the Gap, Old Navy and others — to the new Epps Bridge Centre shopping center in neighboring Oconee County.
"Oconee's success doesn't mean that Athens is going to be ruined," Hamby said.
Also at Monday's Federation of Neighborhoods meeting, Athens-Clarke County Commissioner Doug Lowry updated the audience on economic development efforts on another of the county's major corridors, Lexington Road from the eastern edge of downtown Athens southeast to the county line.
According to Lowry, a discount retailer will be moving into renovated space in the Willowood shopping center at the corner of Gaines School and Lexington roads, and a new gas station-convenience store will be coming to space across Gaines School Road from the shopping center.


text:
more Kaltefleiter columns
ATLANTA - Eric Tabler took one last glance at the neon green uprights as he slowly left the field of the Georgia Dome and headed for Greene County's locker room.
For a brief second, he thought he saw a football fluttering through the goalposts.
But it was only his imagination.
The final kick of Tabler's high school career was still low, wide left and no good. And the Tigers were still on the losing side of their first Dome appearance.
"I want that kick back," he said.
So does Greene County.
With two minutes left, the fate of the Tigers' undefeated season rested with Tabler after quarterback Josh Nesbitt connected with receiver Demarcus Blake for a 16-yard touchdown to pull within an extra point of tying Charlton County, the defending state champion.
The snap was perfect, and Nesbitt's hold was exact. The only thing missing was solid contact from Tabler's right foot.
Tabler also missed his second PAT when his kick was partially blocked, struck the middle of the crossbar and bounced back toward him. It was less than a foot from skidding through.
Those looking to blame the senior kicker for ruining the Tigers' shot at capturing their first state championship since 1993 should look elsewhere.
That's what Nesbitt believes, anyway.
"I just told him to not worry about it," Nesbitt said. "We're still going to be a family. We're not mad at him."
Turnovers and complacency wrecked Greene County more than Tabler's foot. The Tigers fumbled four times and lost one, and Nesbitt threw two interceptions, one which was returned 55 yards for a touchdown by Florida commitment and safety Justin Williams to give the Indians their first lead of the second half.
Williams' interception capped a two-minute, 13-point surge with four minutes left in the third quarter. Though they tied it late in the third, the Tigers didn't completely recover from losing a 21-14 halftime lead.
"We had some turnovers that really cost us," coach Larry Milligan said. "We can play with anybody in (Class) AA, but you can't do it by making those types of mistakes."
Milligan's explanation for defeat does little for Tabler's psyche, though.
Tabler will replay that final kick over and over in his mind. He'll never forget it.
Tabler shouldn't forget what an unforgettable season it was for himself and the Tigers, either.
One missed PAT can't erase those hallowed memories.
John Kaltefleiter is the prep editor of the Banner-Herald. PHONE: 706-208-2213. E-MAIL: firstname.lastname@example.com
© 2016. All Rights Reserved. | Contact Us


text:
We are all proud to live in Amarillo, the Panhandle area and Texas. We love our community. We love our way of life. But as we learned last week, our borders stretch much further than our neighboring states. Even though most people in Manhattan have likely never seen a cotton field, a feed lot, or witnessed a Panhandle sunset, they are much closer to us than before.
These people, these New Yorkers and Washington, D.C., area residents, more than ever, are like our brothers and sisters. They are our neighbors.
The unthinkable horrendous attacks on New York City and the Pentagon struck the hearts of everyone across Amarillo, our region and our state. And like others across America, people of the Amarillo area immediately answered the call. We donated blood by the thousands. Efforts were made to provide any needed emergency assistance. There will undoubtedly be numerous efforts to send clothing and other supplies back east.
Amarillo can be proud of how it responded to those in harm's way. Our patriotism was illustrated by the thousands of American flags that have been flying from homes, stores and office buildings. Many of our churches have been gathering places for us to hopefully gain strength to cope with these attacks on our country, our values, our way of life.
The thoughts and prayers of all of us are with the families of those whose lives were taken by terrorists. The images of our brothers, sisters and neighbors holding up photos of their lost loved ones will be with us forever.
Yet with all the devastation in these attacks against our country, we all know that our nation will prevail in overcoming this terrible time in our history.
We can all be reassured by these words from Mahatma Gandhi: "When I despair, I remember that all through history the ways of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants, and murderers, and for a time they can seem invincible, but in the end they always fall. Think of it...always.''
In Amarillo, New York, Washington and across the nation, the American spirit has never been so deep. God bless those whose loved ones were lost. God blessing the rescue teams. God bless our national leaders. God bless America.
Gary Molberg is the president of the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce. He can be reached at 373-7800.
© 2016. All Rights Reserved. | Contact Us