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Adam Burroughs
How utilizing commonly found information can transform your business
In the past 20 years, companies have been generating an increasing amount of data. A company's database used to be filled with the traditional information necessary for conducting business, such as product sales or demographic information. However, the growth of social media has created a massive pool of information that any company can access, mine and benefit from.
"Utilizing big data can help a company uncover the relationships it has with consumers and businesses that perhaps it didn't previously realize it had," says Pervez Delawalla, president and CEO of Net2EZ. "In many ways, that data can help a company gain a better understanding of its clients' needs and formulate its products to win more business."
Smart Business spoke with Delawalla about big data and how to effectively store and utilize it to the benefit of your business.
Where can companies find big data, and how can they use it?
With the advent and proliferation of social media, there is information that companies can collect called 'big data,' which can be used to analyze, in a cost-effective and time-efficient way, the social habits of consumers. This information allows them to devise targeted marketing campaigns and develop products.
Data about consumers is being collected from social media outlets such as Facebook and Twitter, data about businesses can be collected from sources such as LinkedIn in and Foursquare, and there is data contained in emails coming into a company. This data had previously not been considered a useful source of mining but has now become fair game.
Do all companies have access to big data?
In today's world, any company that uses computers has a big data resource or is collecting it without realizing it. For example, most salespeople have a contact database that includes people they've met through work, in their personal lives and through networking. If you are going to meet with the CFO of a potential client company and you learn that someone on your sales team knows that CFO, that is an invaluable personal connection. Knowing about that relationship allows you to bring the person to the meeting and quickly establish a connection with the prospective client.
Even small companies selling few products are gleaning this information and benefiting from it. Customer information can be pulled from social media and email campaigns and used to promote your business to those customers. Big data is viable for companies of all sizes.
What challenges are associated with having big data?
Storing big data was traditionally cost prohibitive, which is why only large companies could do it. The McKinsey Global Institute estimates that the volume of data growth in the U.S. for big companies will increase 40 percent year over year from 2009 until 2020. When you look at the amount of data being generated and the growth of that data, the cost of maintaining it had been the biggest hurdle for smaller companies.
However, solutions such as new, lower-cost hardware have recently hit the market, which has given smaller companies the ability to have large sets of storage devices to store big data. At the same time, cloud computing allows a company to rent storage on a monthly or short-term basis, meaning more companies can collect, store and mine big data.
Indexing this data so that it can be used to benefit the company is a challenge, but there are plenty of tools available from major software manufacturers that can be used to mine it.
What methods are available to companies to help store this data?
Big data can be stored privately or on servers that host multiple clients. Which option a company chooses depends on how important it is to keep that information secure. If a hospital were storing patient data, it would want it hosted on a private server.
Private cloud services give companies a certain amount of secure storage on a server that only belongs to them. The type of data being stored determines which tools are applied to extract it, such as a dashboard through which a company can query or search its data. There are also data feeds that provide ticker updates as data comes in, giving fast access to information.
Public cloud services are available, but these are less secure than private services. Public storage is more suitable for things such as marketing campaigns, in which the data being used is critical only for a short time and has no real value proposition for anyone other than the company.
How can companies efficiently navigate such large data sets to get the most use out of the information being retained?
It takes some time to understand which data is going to be useful and to learn which tools are available to store and sort it. For example, you could buy and deploy big data-mining tools to start collecting various sets of data from multiple sources, then create a dashboard that puts that information at your fingertips. However, you can't simply keep storing information and expect results. You need to better understand your company's demographics and understand what is going to help your company grow. You have to know your end result and employ the tools necessary to achieve it.
Many companies don't realize what they have beyond their traditional database. Big data may be beyond the scope of traditional customer relationship management tools and that is sometimes where the treasure trove of data exists. Accessing that data will open a world of opportunities for your business.
Pervez Delawalla is president and CEO of Net2EZ. Reach him at (310) 426-6700 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
How commuter programs can save money and reduce stress
An employee's commute to and from work can be costly in terms of money spent on gas, insurance, and wear and tear on a vehicle, and the increased stress it brings. However, there are programs available that companies can support that will help alleviate employee stress, reduce absenteeism, save employees money and improve productivity.
"One of the benefits of a commuter program is that it provides a less-stressful commute to and from work," says Tim Dilsaver, Pace Suburban Bus' community affairs representative for Lake County, Ill. "It leads to a better parking situation, with companies often providing preferential parking to commuters; fewer cars in your office parking lot; and commuters getting a break on their personal car insurance because they're not using their primary vehicle to get to and from work."
Smart Business spoke with Dilsaver about commuter programs and the benefits they bring to both employees and companies.
How does a commuter program get organized at a company?
There are several types of commuter programs that people use. A couple of examples include public transportation and an informal employee carpool. But there are also commercial programs that can benefit both passengers and companies alike. One program, operated by Pace, uses vans that pick up passengers at existing bus and train stations and also can pick up people from their homes or at other predetermined locations.
Similar to an employee-organized carpool, this ride-sharing program utilizes vans that pick up groups of up to 13 people along a route and transport them to and from work. The vehicle is provided, as is the maintenance, gas, insurance, van washes and tolls.
Participants can choose their routes and select their pickup times. Furthermore, this program offers a Guaranteed Ride Home program in the event that a participant has to leave work early for, say, a family emergency. The cost of a taxi is reimbursed up to a certain amount when situations prevent a rider from being able to use the vanpool.
How do employees benefit from a commuter program?
Employees benefit by saving thousands on commuting expenses during the course of a year. They also benefit from having less stressful commutes. They don't have to deal with the drudgery of a morning drive. Instead, while someone else is driving, they can sleep, prepare for the workday, talk with the other commuters or just watch the world go by. Employees also save because they're putting less wear and tear on their personal vehicles and refueling less often.
How do companies benefit from commuter programs?
Companies benefit from commuter programs by having employees who arrive at work less stressed. It's also a great way for those who don't have reliable transportation to have an affordable and reliable way to get to work, which ultimately improves attendance and employee retention. Companies can provide premium spaces for vanpools and carpools and free up spaces in the company lot because the vans can hold as many as 13 passengers, which opens up additional parking.
They often appoint a transportation coordinator who oversees the program, enrolls employees in the pretax payroll deduction program, and chooses pickup and drop-off locations at the place of business.
A commuter program also can provide businesses with matching grants that can be used to set up a program. For example, with one program in Chicago and the collar counties of northern Illinois, the company puts up $2,000 that's matched by the provider.
It can be used for a range of things, including signage that designates commuter program parking and to support raffles for items such as bikes to promote green transportation. It's a great way for a company to support environmentally friendly alternatives to driving.
What are the common responses from companies and employees using such commuter programs?
Companies that participate in commuter programs are excited by the results. These programs start with one vehicle, and then word of mouth spreads quickly and companies soon have as many as 10 commuter vehicles bringing employees to and from work for all shifts, day and night.
Human resources personnel who promote the program say their employees really enjoy it. The HR representatives put sign-up sheets on the Internet to allow people to sign up and fill open spaces, which are quickly taken.
Employees say they save money compared to what they would spend driving their own car because the fees associated with the commuter program don't come close to what they spend driving alone to and from work. They also skip the drudgery of daily drives and the traffic jams, and many employees say they would never go back to the daily drive.
Are there any environmental benefits companies can promote that are related to providing commuter programs to employees?
Commuter programs allow companies and employees a chance to reduce their carbon footprint by having fewer cars drive to and from the workplace. Less gas is consumed, traffic is reduced and many issues with crowded parking are resolved. Some companies have multiple vehicles running in the program, which means significantly fewer cars are traveling to the facility.
Tim Dilsaver is the community affairs representative for Lake County, Ill., at Pace Suburban Bus. Reach him at (847) 228-4282 or email@example.com.
More information on Pace's RideShare program is available at www.PaceRideShare.com.
Insights Transportation is brought to you by Pace Suburban Bus
How customer relationship management software can help businesses excel
There are many pressures on organizations to make the most out of every customer interaction and maximize the return on investment on marketing and sales spend. However, businesses often don't have the work force necessary to handle these functions as timely and effectively as they would like or the tools and processes in place to measure and track success. Companies that are able to track interaction, engagement, investments and customer patterns and behaviors often enlist the help of a customer relationship management (CRM) tool.
"A CRM tool helps businesses manage sales, marketing and customer service operations without significantly expanding their work force," says Gina Rosen, a consultant at Columbus. "CRM, in the past, may have been nice to have — a luxury technology, but in today's marketplace, it's a must have to stay competitive."
Smart Business spoke with Rosen about CRM, its applications and how it has helped businesses improve processes to better engage customers, target sales and gauge marketing effectiveness.
What are the typical features offered by a CRM system?
The features offered by CRM are very diverse. It's primary applications are contact management; marketing automation; sales force automation; sales and lead management; reporting and analytics; call center and case management, particularly with respect to customer inquiries or complaints; workflow automation, or automating manual processes; and social media integrations. Businesses have the option for on-premise solutions where the software is hosted at the business on its servers, or they can utilize a Web-based or cloud option, which involves less initial financial investment. The software can also be customized to meet the particular needs of a business.
Is CRM cost prohibitive for businesses?
No it is not, however, had this question been asked six or seven years ago the answer would have been yes. Previously, enterprise-ready CRM software required significant funds to get the software and hardware in place. But with the advent of cloud-based solutions, even businesses run by a sole proprietor can afford CRM and leverage its applications to optimize processes. The cloud-based model allows business owners to pay through subscriptions that charge per user. The pay per user cloud-based model offers a low-cost opportunity to implement CRM, experience the value and see the return on investment (ROI).
What are the most compelling reasons an organization would implement CRM technology?
A recent survey of 200 top-performing small and medium-sized businesses showed that the number one reason businesses implement CRM software is to establish data-based metrics for sales and marketing. It also provides the ability to show ROI and quantitative key marketing metrics that mean a lot to businesses.
The second reason CRM is implemented is to proactively communicate with customers. Customers expect a lot these days, and one of those expectations is that businesses, whether small or large, interact with them. To stay in front of your customers and offer personal interaction is critical.
Within that same vein, the third reason companies take advantage of this software is for custom-targeted sales and marketing. With CRM you can customize that end user experience, which makes your sales force more effective. Customers can interact directly with your CRM custom solution through your existing website and experience a tailored visit based on previous interactions, or your sales force can utilize the standard feature when interacting with customers and have all of a customer's history available in one spot.
What are the most important value drivers for CRM?
The top value for a business is the software's ability to help manage marketing and sales campaigns. CRM can help businesses test marketing and distribution strategies and gauge customer reactions. This information can be applied to future marketing efforts.
Another important value driver is that the software serves as a customer data repository, allowing you to consolidate customer knowledge within the organization in CRM. This includes far more than just contact details, but also customer behaviors and attitudes and price sensitivity. This, combined with personal data, can allow businesses to build more effective and predictive sales models and marketing campaigns that result in higher sales.
Further, CRM systems can help demonstrate ROI. With CRM you can quantitatively show increases in sales, customer referrals and participation in promotions.
What is the most common challenge a business faces when implementing CRM?
Typically the challenge is user adoption — getting your sales force and front line users to embrace CRM. They often see populating the fields as double entry, an extra step, or another way for management to check in on them. But once the sales force sees that using the software results in more sales, they can easily overcome that hurdle.
What are the most common performance metrics?
The top one, hands down, is revenue growth. The faster you can show ROI the better.
Second is growth in a business's customer base, which means adding new customers or converting leads into paying customers.
The third most common performance metric is aggregating customer data. Many companies have customer data spread out over disparate systems. CRM gives businesses a one-stop shop for their records.
Can you give us some examples of companies that have benefited from implementing CRM?
The Toledo Mud Hens baseball team, which works within the media and entertainment industry, had ticket sales go up 88 percent in one year and their internal operations couldn't keep up with demand. Adopting CRM allowed them to automate and streamline inefficient processes, which translated into more ticket sales. A customer testimonial is available with more information.
Another example is the human resources consulting firm Findley Davies. Implementing CRM in their call center has given them the ability to manage daily responsibilities and track productivity. It has dramatically changed and improved day-to-day operations within their Benefits Administration department.
Gina Rosen is a consultant at Columbus. Contact her at (248) 850-2195 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
With more than 20 years in the market and 6,000 successful business implementations, Columbus is a preferred Microsoft Dynamics business partner for ambitious companies. Columbus' key deliverables include flexible and future-safe ERP, CRM, BI and related business applications that deliver competitive advantage and immediate impact.
Five strategies from Fay Sharpe on how copyright law affects the use of photographs
While it may be tempting to snag an image from the Web and use it on your company website, that image is protected under copyright law and using it without permission could lead to significant losses.
"Copyright infringement is essentially a 'strict liability' offense," says John Zanghi, a partner at Fay Sharpe. "In other words, if you infringe on a copyright owner's exclusive rights you can be found liable for copyright infringement, even if you had no knowledge that an infringement occurred or did not make any money using the photograph."
Smart Business spoke with Zanghi about copyright law and five strategies to protect your company from infringement.
Who is the owner of a photograph and what rights do they have?
The owner of a photograph is the creator of the work, which is generally the photographer. There are situations where an employer owns the photograph, for example, through a work-for-hire situation, or when the owner of the work transfers the rights to another via a written assignment.
Generally, however, an independent contractor or freelancer owns the work they produce. Being the owner means having exclusive rights to the work, such as the exclusive right to display it, prepare derivative works or modifications based on the original copyrighted work, and the right to distribute copies to the public through any means.
What is fair use of a photograph?
Fair use is an exception to copyright law that allows the use of a photograph without express authorization from the owner. Generally, fair use is limited to various specific purposes, such as criticism, teaching, scholarship, research, comment and news reporting.
Courts look at the purpose and character of the use to determine if an act truly constitutes fair use. Other factors are the nature of the copyrighted work, the amount and substantiality of the portion used in relation to the work as a whole, and the effect of the use upon the potential market or value of the copyrighted work.
If a photograph is posted on the Internet, is it open to public use unless clearly marked as copyrighted?
A copyright owner doesn't have to provide notice to preserve copyright protection because it's protected through public display. A photographer could expressly state that a photograph is in the public domain, but it's safer to assume it's not and that the copyright owner needs to be contacted to use the photograph. Even if you're trying to minimize your exposure by citing the source, you could still infringe the copyright in the photograph.
If I'm not the person posting the image to the website, am I still infringing on the copyright?
The company may be liable regardless of who posts the image. The company may try to say it wasn't aware the Web designer was using a copyrighted image, but if the company had control over the Web designer, it could be vicariously liable for the infringement. Most likely both parties could be held liable. Ignorance is not an excuse for copyright infringement.
Do I have to make money from using the photographs to infringe?
No. Copyright infringement is a strict liability offense. However, the amount of money you made on a protected image could factor into damages for the infringement and could affect the extent to which the copyright owner is entitled to statutory damages. Those can range from $750 to $150,000 for willful infringement, presuming the copyright owner has timely registered the copyright. But even if they didn't have a timely registration, the owner could still seek actual damages for the profits obtained by the copyright infringer.
What strategies should business owners keep in mind regarding photographs?
- When hiring a photographer, have a contract outlining the scope of use of the photographs including when and how you may use them. To take ownership of and any or all of the copyright owner's exclusive rights in the photographs, ask for an express, written transfer of the rights from the photographer. It's always best to get your rights on paper and up front.
- When posting images to your website, make it clear to the Web developers that they must secure the rights and proper licenses to any image they use. Advise them not to just lift photographs from the Web without receiving permission from the owners. An infringement could lead to a cease and desist order that causes you to pull the images you've used from your site or from other materials and subject you to possible damages. To avoid this, you could hire your own photographer to take the photographs, which allows you to control the content.
- In the event that you do produce your own photographs and you do own the exclusive rights in such photographs, you may want to protect them further with copyright registration. There are different rules of how to submit photographs or collections of photographs, so ask your Intellectual Property attorney about the best procedure. But generally, because of the timeliness required for registration and the advantages of getting protection, it's something to consider right away. You may also consider embedding a copyright notice in the digital image metadata.
- When using images from the Web, assume they are not in the public domain unless there is an express statement to that effect. Just because they're on the Web doesn't mean they're free. Assume there is a copyright owner because you could be liable.
- It's always better to obtain and define your rights before a problem develops, so get contracts when working with contractors. Generally, legal issues develop because someone didn't imagine there would be a problem and he or she moves forward with a handshake agreement. Then when someone finds there's more value in a photograph than he or she initially thought, disputes arise. So define the agreement up front, and establish what you'll pay and what you'll get back in return.
John Zanghi is a partner at Fay Sharpe. Reach him at (216) 363-9000 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
Insights Legal Affairs is brought to you by Fay Sharpe LLP
How to ensure you're picking the right M&A adviser for your needs
"This year's election is critical to the future success of our country," says Albert D. Melchiorre, president of MelCap Partners, LLC. "The selection of the next president of the U.S. should be based on experience, track record and shared values. So too should it be with the selection of your M&A adviser."
He says much like each election is pivotal to the country's progress, selling your business will have grand implications on the rest of your life, so it's wise to put the transaction in the hands of an expert.
"It's a very involved process with many risks," he says of the merger and acquisition process. "Making a mistake could result in a bad transaction, which is why it's important to find help."
Smart Business spoke with Melchiorre about the role of an M&A adviser and what qualifications to look for when
selecting one.
What is an M&A adviser, and what is his or her role in merger and acquisition transactions?
An M&A adviser is a financial adviser who has experience in completing merger and acquisition transactions. The role of this adviser is to represent the interests of the business owner in achieving their goals and objectives through either a merger or acquisition transaction. This adviser also quarterbacks the deal team, which typically includes attorneys, accountants and other advisers who help to successfully compete a transaction.
What does the resume of a qualified M&A adviser contain?
An experienced adviser should have a relevant and proven track record of successfully completing transactions in your field of business. They should also have an applicable education, as well as the proper financial securities license to complete the transaction. Additionally, look for an adviser who has the relevant industry experience necessary to understand the nuances of your industry.
There are a few ways to qualify potential advisers. One way is through a referral from the seller's trusted advisers. Many M&A advisers are fairly transparent in their experiences, so you can conduct an initial screening by visiting their website to see the number of deals they've completed. Also look to see if they have experience in the industry in which you do business and that they have qualified personnel at the firm.
While you're really hiring a firm, it's equally important to choose the right individual. You can have a firm with a well-known name that has been through many deals, but you still need to know that each individual within the team is qualified to handle your transaction. You don't want an inexperienced adviser on your deal.
How does a company decide whether an M&A adviser will help facilitate its sale?
In a sale transaction, one role of an M&A adviser is to help business owners achieve their goals and objectives, but also to maximize the value of their business. An experienced adviser can bring the appropriate parties to the table and create a competitive environment where that can take place.
There are many aspects to completing an M&A transaction. Having an adviser who can expect the unexpected will help you navigate through the land mines associated with completing the deal. This will likely be the most significant liquidity event you'll ever face, and your adviser should treat it as such. Business owners in the middle market will only sell their company once, so it's important that they're hiring an experienced adviser who has a record of facilitating and closing transactions.
What are the risks of negotiating an M&A transaction without an adviser?
You should have an experienced deal team to ensure you're not being taken advantage of through the terms and conditions of the deal. They can also help maximize the value of the transaction, while lessening the risk of not getting a transaction done.
It's a very time consuming process that involves highly confidential information. As a deal is pursued, there is the risk that customers and employees could find out about the sale too soon, or a buyer could be brought to the table who is not serious, which is a concern when you're talking to a competitor. An experienced adviser can make sure confidential information is properly disclosed and facilitate its secure transfer.
When do you bring in an adviser?
Bring in your M&A adviser at the forefront, before you even embark on the process. You need to make sure you've taken the steps necessary to prepare yourself for an appropriate sale and get a sense of whether your goals and objectives are achievable in the current market. Right now may not be the time to sell your business, but there may be some steps you can take to make a future sale both successful and efficient. A qualified adviser can present you with the best options and advice to achieve your goals.
On the buy side, an M&A adviser can help by assessing the value of the company you're considering to ensure the offer is competitive. Your adviser can help you determine how you're going to finance the acquisition and can also assist you with your due diligence as the process is closing.
An M&A adviser can make the initial contact with the company you're interested in acquiring to gauge its interest. He or she can be there earlier in the process to help determine and develop your acquisition criteria, and use it as a basis for the search process by identifying companies through other intermediaries that may have companies for sale. Your adviser can also help you develop a list of suitable acquisition candidates and initiate contact with them.
Albert D. Melchiorre is president of MelCap Partners, LLC. Reach him at (330) 239-1990 or email@example.com.
Insights Mergers & Acquisitions is brought to you by MelCap
How to keep confusion out of the market by protecting your company name
Regardless of where you are at in your company's life cycle, it is prudent to protect your brand by obtaining state or federal registration for your mark or company name. State or federal registration helps ensure that your business and reputation are not tarnished, or that you do not lose clients as a result of others encroaching upon your area by using a name or mark that is confusingly similar to yours.
"There exists common-law rights that take effect from the moment you start your business, but to enhance your protection it is best to obtain federal or state registration for your brand to better enforce your right of ownership," says Timothy Jordan, a shareholder at Garan Lucow Miller PC. "Registration establishes that you own the mark and anything confusingly similar can be barred from entering the market."
Smart Business spoke with Jordan about registering a trademark and the consequences of not doing so.
What are common-law rights and what protections do they offer?
As soon as a company uses a name or mark, it's developing common-law rights of use. However, the protection of that mark under such rights is limited.
Say you have been using your name in the Detroit area for six years without obtaining federal or state registration. Suddenly a businessman from California, independent of you, comes up with the same or similar name and applies for and obtains federal registration. That registration can provide for the blanket use of that name throughout the United States. Your competitor may now be able to stop you from expanding the use of your mark outside of the geographic area in which you are currently operating, if the business appears related. You can still use your name and continue to do business in your geographic area, but you cannot expand your business beyond that point.
In a similar scenario, another company in the same field and state obtains a state registration after you have been using your mark. That company can prevent you from expanding into the other company's territory within the state.
When should you apply for state and/or federal registration?
A state registration is relatively inexpensive and fairly easy to obtain. If you are a startup that has any realistic hopes of getting your business out of your garage, spend the money to obtain a state registration. If things are taking off within the first year apply for federal registration, a process which can take between eight months to a year and a half.
But first, find out if the name you would like to use is already registered or in use. You do not want to spend the money on a website, materials and advertising only to find out there is another business with the same or similar name doing similar work or selling a similar product.
How do you search for a name?
There is a federal database maintained by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office that you can access and search to determine if the word or phrase you would like is 'live,' in other words is in use as a trademark. You can navigate the site as you would most any Internet search engine.
Trademarks are valid for 10 years but require a notice of renewal be filed in the fifth year to maintain it, and again between the ninth and 10th years for each additional 10 years of protection. If you do not file for renewal after five years, the mark can become part of the public domain and will eventually expire, which means someone else can use that name.
How do you protect a slogan or phrase associated with your business prior to registration?
Companies that have tag lines or a slogan that accompanies their mark often put the initials 'TM' or 'SM' at the end of it. By doing so the company is using the phrase as if it were a trademark or service mark. While there is no registration in place, the company is putting the world on notice that the phrase is viewed as a trademark or service mark.
The phrase attached to your company name has to develop secondary meaning before registration is possible. Once the word or slogan conjures up a meaning different than the literal words or slogan, such as Levi's® representing jeans, then your mark has developed secondary meaning and you can seek registration.
Make a note of when your phrase or tag line was posted to your website or used on some other material viewed by the public because it will help establish the date of your initial use, which will be noted by the trademark office.
When is it appropriate to seek registration for a new product or line?
If you are a large, existing business and you are going to expand into a new product line, from the get-go it is worth the time and money to obtain registration on the new product name. It may cost you a few thousand dollars, but it will save you more down the road. However, if you're only making $10,000 annually, it might be more prudent to use the TM designation because that is free.
You have to look at your market, your perception of your future success and your resources. If you work only in Michigan, and not all over the country, a state registration may be sufficient. If your product takes off, then you have to decide when it is right for you to invest the money to obtain a federal registration. It's a personal decision to determine when you are successful enough to need to protect your name.
Timothy Jordan is a shareholder at Garan Lucow Miller PC. Reach him at (313) 446-5531 or email@example.com.
Insights Legal Affairs is brought to you by Garan Lucow Miller PC
How the process of buying commercial real estate unfolds
Buying commercial real estate is not the same as buying a residential property. While there are some initial steps prospective buyers can do on their own, it's best to get some help from an expert as the commercial real estate search progresses.
"On the commercial side, there are so many ways to lose money on a deal without the right assistance," says Terry Coyne, SIOR, CCIM, an executive vice president with Grubb & Ellis. "It's the 'unknown unknowns' that you're hiring someone to handle."
Smart Business spoke with Coyne about commercial real estate transactions, how the process unfolds and when to bring in help.
What are the first steps when looking for commercial real estate?
To get started, you can conduct a simple Internet search using any typical search engine. There are also a few dedicated commercial real estate websites, such as CoStar and Loopnet, which can be good vehicles for finding commercial space, comparable sales and public records. However, many of these sites only give users access to a limited amount of information, then lead you to a representative to get the remaining details.
Those sites can get you a little more in tune with the properties available in the market, some of the industry terms and the geography, so when you're calling a broker you are prepared with some general information. But keep in mind the information you're getting about commercial real estate on these sites is most likely coming from brokers. It's hard to find information from owners or developers.
The commercial real estate industry is not good at using the Internet for selling a product. Most of what's out there will just lead you to a broker or salesman — sort of, 'Call us and we'll help you.' The prominent strategy is to withhold information to get you to sign up with them or contact them regarding a search or a sale.
What's the next step after an Internet search?
The next step would be to call around and qualify brokers. What you're looking for is whether the person is a tenant or buyer representative, and some people do both. You have to ask yourself whether you feel comfortable with someone who handles one side or both sides of the transaction.
If you work with someone who handles just one side there's no conflict of interest, since they're working for the best deal for either a buyer or a seller. However, if he or she handles both sides, you can argue that they know the market better because they're seeing it from both sides of the transaction, but there may be a conflict of interest.
Also, look for certain designations or titles attached to the representative's name, such as SIOR or CCIM, which stand for Society of Industrial and Office Realtors and Certified Commercial Investment Member. SOIR means the representative has been in the industry for at least five years and has hit a certain volume of transactions. CCIM is similar, but indicates that person has also taken college-level classes.
Find a broker who knows the market well because he or she will likely have information on properties that are not yet on the market. The broker can do the investigative work; he or she has knowledge of the area and good intuition, which will save you, as the buyer, time.
Have a broker come out and talk to you about what kind of space you're looking for. Show him or her the space you're in and work with him or her to understand his or her process. It's not unusual in the first meeting for a broker to ask for a representation agreement, which says you'll only work with that broker. This helps prohibit a prospective buyer from using the broker's resources, such as time and gas, and then squeezing him or her out of a deal. While you can certainly negotiate his or her fee, there's no doubt he or she is owed money for the time spent on the deal.
What happens once you've found a property you'd like to buy?
When you're interviewing a buyer or landlord, make sure you understand the services he or she is offering. You're weighing all of the factors that go into a lease — rate, term, tenant improvements, etc. Also, conduct a financial analysis and look at the design services being offered.
When you're looking at renting a 20,000-square-foot office space, for example, you'll want to know how your business will fit the space, which will be laid out in a fit plan. It's paid for by the landlord and comes into play when you're being considered as one of the top three potential tenants. At this point, you'll also start negotiating lease terms and looking at possible incentives from the city.
When your broker is negotiating city incentives, he or she is pitting cities against each other. They'll negotiate sewer and water rates, the kilowatt charges per hour and other details, so it's important to work with someone who has experience in those types of negotiations.
As you move toward closing, all the due diligence components require some shepherding by your broker because there are typically many consultants involved. Brokers basically help coordinate the process.
Terry Coyne, SIOR, CCIM, is an executive vice president with Grubb & Ellis. Reach him at (216) 453-3001 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
Insights Real Estate is brought to you by Grubb & Ellis
How an owner's representative can manage a capital project for you
Capital projects require a great deal of attention in order to be successfully completed. There are many pitfalls and each can be costly or potentially derail the project. That's where owner's representatives come in.
"From the perspective of CEOs and CFOs, hiring an owner's representative to manage a capital project serves to eliminate uncertainties by engaging experienced leadership. The result of that is to increase the predictability of the outcome of the project," says Ken Mason, CPC, vice president of Plante Moran CRESA.
Owner's representatives manage projects from concept through completion. They understand what questions to ask, what information needs to be gathered, and how to keep projects on time and on budget.
"We have the ability to develop very accurate cost models so boards and CEOs can make informed decisions before they set a project in motion, otherwise they might plan for months only to find out a project is not feasible," he says.
Smart Business spoke with Mason about the role of an owner's representative and how they help ensure projects are completed as originally intended.
What aspects of a capital project does an owner's representative handle?
It starts with the strategic planning and project feasibility. An experienced owner's representative or project manager can help develop the right business model and collect outside data, such as a develop demand analysis, and perform demographic and market research, to help create the financial architecture of the project and understand its purpose. The owner's representative also develops schedules and budgets that are both reasonable and attainable.
In the schedule, there are components beyond physical construction activities, such as regulatory requirements, entitlement time frames, move planning and other milestones.
Owner's representatives also handle the team selection process, which is criteria based, to make sure you've got the right designers and construction firms. Part of that process is working for tough, but fair, contract language that appropriately transfers the risk to those various entities, thus mitigating the owner's risk.
A strong owner's representative is vigilant in the budget and schedule management and oversight. Also, through the use of technology, he or she should offer real-time reporting and access to information at the click of a button to help owners understand the key indicators of the project.
Additionally, through the process there's always a need to have the project owner's internal resources engaged in the projects. Experienced owner's representatives know when to engage these people and when not to, in order to keep staff on their mission and not engage them unnecessarily throughout the process.
It's important to bring a strong end to the project, including financial and closeout activities with diligent oversight. Move management is also an important activity that needs to be managed to not disrupt operations.
What background do owner's representatives typically have?
Usually there is blended experience within a team. Someone may have more experience on the project design and planning side or on the physical construction and technical building side. That's typically supplemented with some financial experience and understanding of how to look at a business plan and make sure that the goals are obtainable and the assumptions made are correct. You have to have a little experience in a lot of things and understand when you need outside resources to support you for the occasional deeper dives required throughout the project's life cycle.
Typically one owner's representative serves as a project's lead, but he or she is supported by a multidisciplinary team of experts who are involved at the appropriate time.
Why should an owner's representative be brought on to a capital project?
Organizations may not have the resources to handle all the tasks of a large construction project. There are numerous risks associated with any project, such as not meeting financial expectations, running late or over budget, or having mistakes made along the way that add costs. Permitting and regulatory requirements are also part of the day-to-day responsibilities of the project manager.
A lot of projects could fail because you had the right business plan and budget, but the wrong team. Some people who have never been through the process might not know how to gather and analyze the appropriate data to select one. You could have good intentions at the outset, but the wrong expertise. It's not always a cost-based selection, it's really criteria based, which involves costs, experience and the team that's put in place.
One client, for example, had started a major capital project on its own. About a third of the way through it asked Plante Moran CRESA to look at where it was and perform an analysis. We found the project was behind schedule and significantly over budget. We developed a recommendation and recovery plan, and then implemented it. The project was completed in the originally defined time frame and for less than their original budget.
Why should an owner's representative work through the completion of the project?
At the end of a project, without some oversight, there's a tendency for things to linger — a few open issues don't get addressed properly, paperwork and lien exposure is not adequately mitigated, financial closeout doesn't happen on the appropriate timeline. The longer these stay open, the greater the financial risk and the more obstacles exist to meeting the original expectations.
Also, when you're moving into a new facility it's a major undertaking with a lot of pieces and parts that need to be planned for, and events need to occur in a timely and orderly fashion to not disrupt business operation.
Ken Mason, CPC, is vice president of Plante Moran CRESA. Reach him at (248) 603-5236 or email@example.com.
Insights Real Estate is brought to you by Plante Moran CRESA
Starting a wellness program can impact employees and your bottom line
Some employers have focused on employee wellness for years, but others aren't convinced it is to their benefit to get on board. Companies may fear that creating a wellness program will be complicated or expensive, but it doesn't have to be either. Simple steps such as setting up walking groups or offering annual biometric screenings can yield significant results in health and productivity, says Daniel Meracle, an Employee Benefits Consultant and Wellness Adviser with Benefitdecisions, Inc.
"If you haven't started, now is the time," says Meracle. "Creating wellness programs can be easy, inexpensive and have a major impact on employee satisfaction, productivity and benefits costs for most employers."
Smart Business spoke with Meracle about how to set up an employee wellness program and measure its results.
Where does a business start when considering a wellness program?
Start small by familiarizing employees with their numbers — blood pressure, weight and cholesterol, then address how to get those in line. Instill that employees are responsible for knowing and owning their numbers and their overall health. Base your program on your goals. Start with results from biometric screenings. If cholesterol and weight are issues in your population, start a walking program. Form teams, have them use pedometers and connect progress to a goal.
How can you set realistic goals?
Determining realistic goals starts with understanding overall health risks in the organization. Begin with a biometric screening. For your initial measurement, consider a full 35 panel blood draw. Most wellness service companies or insurance carriers that administer these programs will create a detailed report card of the demographics and health risks of the population. The report has no identifiers but gives an aggregate overview of the participants. Goals should be set to improve the results around a specific health risk or around participation in wellness activities. Companies often create an internal wellness committee to develop contests and tap into resources provided by their insurer or a local hospital.
How do you deal with employees' privacy concerns standing in the way of participation?
Stress early and often that results of the tests are confidential. A general report for the organization doesn't mention employees by name, department or other identifiers. Some people won't trust the process and won't participate. You're not going to get everyone to participate, especially in the first year. However, the longer a commitment to wellness exists within a company and becomes part of the culture, the more people who will participate.
How else can you motivate employees?
Incentives are effective in driving participation. For example, charging $50 to $100 a month on top of health benefits for those who do not participate is a strong motivator. There are also benefit plan design changes to address prevalent health issues. For example, if your employee base has a high diabetes population, consider reducing copays on diabetes medications, providing an incentive for people to manage their illness through medications.
Environmental changes can help, as well. Offering healthier options in vending machines, making your facility smoke-free and changing smoking breaks to health breaks encourages employees to change their behaviors.
Should a company contract with outside vendors, or create a plan internally?
You could do either. Start by going to your insurance carrier, which will likely have departments dedicated to wellness programs. Your broker will also be able to point you toward proper resources.
How do you communicate the goals of the program and get employees engaged?
A successful wellness program starts at the top. Employees look at what their managers are doing and if they are participating. The best programs have a senior-level person as the program champion.
The program champion should outline the goals from a culture and wellness perspective. The goals should be specific about timetables and when progress will be measured.
Recruit people for a wellness committee who want to help develop a culture of wellness. Ideas usually bubble up immediately because these people are already involved in their health and wellness and are eager to teach others. Communicate ideas about wellness through multiple channels, for example, emails, posters, talks, contests, etc.
Set the expectation with employees that they don't need to be marathon runners; simpler goals such as healthier food choices, establishing an exercise routine, getting preventive medical care or learning about stress management will have a positive impact on your health insurance costs. Employees will feel better, be more productive and live better lifestyles.
How do you assess the program's effectiveness, and how often should you evaluate it?
The first year sets the baseline for measurements. Beginning in the second year, and annually thereafter, you should see progress toward the goals. Reset your goals annually. It is also critical to provide continuous communication to employees and senior management about the program's progress so they stay engaged and realize the benefits of the program.
Show employees what's in it for them, such as an incentive. Tie rewards to your specific culture, as every organization is different. Behavioral changes are hard, but if you start small and keep building, people will actively participate when they are ready for change. Over time, your company will see the measurable results of your wellness program in benefits costs, employee satisfaction and engagement scores and reduction in absenteeism.
Daniel Meracle is an Employee Benefits Consultant and Wellness Adviser with Benefitdecisions, Inc. Reach him at (312) 376-0433 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
Insights Employee Benefits is brought to you by Benefitdecisions, Inc.
How the recession impacted lending and the ability to get a commercial loan
Coming out of the downturn, many private companies had not been able to get venture capital funding and had to look internally or to commercial banks to get capital or leverage.
"As the economy comes back and commercial banks have more capital at their disposal, things are improving regarding the ability to get commercial loans," says H. Jesse Garcia, senior vice president and group manager of Bridge Bank's commercial lending office in Palo Alto, Calif.
Some companies may have stressed their banking relationship during the recession and will likely go out into the marketplace, after returning to profitability, to look to get more from a new banking relationship. Understanding what qualifying conditions commercial banks are looking for will prepare companies to work better with their commercial banks and leverage what they have to offer.
Smart Business spoke with Garcia about the lending climate and the criteria commercial banks use to qualify loans.
What do commercial banks offer to private companies without venture capital funding?
Commercial banks can offer a variety of loans, including lines of credit backed by accounts receivable, equipment financing, term loans, acquisition loans and commercial building loans where a business buys the building in which it works to facilitate its business.
Commercial banks qualify non-venture capital-funded companies on three main factors:
- Historical performance, which includes profitability, cash flow and its record of servicing loan payments;
- Secondary sources of redemption, which could include accounts receivable or inventory, but could also be fixed assets or assets that the owner pledges; and
- The business owner's personal guarantee, including the strength of his or her personal assets.
When looking at these three criteria, a borrower generally could have a deficiency in one area and mitigate it by strengthening another to improve the chances of getting a loan.
From a lending perspective, what is the difference between closely held businesses and venture-backed companies?
Typically, closely held businesses have a much smaller group of individuals holding the company, and these individuals don't want to sell a portion of it to bring in capital. Depending on the market, companies could be limited on sources of capital because of their narrow market share. Normally these privately owned companies need to run with a much leaner finance and strategic group, and the main focus of the owner is building the business and knowing their industry. Owners often lean on their commercial banker, CPA and other advisers for resources to grow the business. More successful private businesses have a more cohesive core of professionals around them who are extensions of their finance group.
What should these private business owners look for in a commercial bank?
They should be looking for an experienced banker and a bank that's focused on commercial lending. Lending to privately owned businesses is a niche in banking and it takes a very keen eye. Experienced bankers can guide you through many loan products or ways to leverage the company — some more limiting than others, depending on your rate of expected growth. Being able to have a banker who understands the pitfalls of products helps owners make more appropriate choices when thinking about how to leverage their company with commercial banking debt.
Also, owners often want to work with a bank that understands the landscape of other professional service providers who can help their business. Many companies don't have the wherewithal to bring in strategic financial consultants, so it can be helpful to be guided to the right professional service providers.
Is the old adage, 'Banks only lend money to those companies that don't need it,' true?
While this might be spoken tongue-in-cheek, there are people who think this might be true. It refers to the belief that banks only lend money to companies with high profits because they have more cash on hand and, therefore, a greater ability to repay. Conversely, it implies that banks aren't there for companies that really need the money. This has been reinforced because of the lending conditions that some have perceived to become prominent following the economic downturn. However, this really isn't the case.
Good commercial banks work with companies through many situations, and banks have really stepped up during the downturn to provide or continue to provide loans as companies push through the difficult market. One thing that may have happened during the downturn is good banks had to look internally and see what their clients' needs were and keep resources available for them. This means they were not as outward looking and not as aggressive in pursuing new clients. But over last two years, as the economy has turned around, there's been more certainty in the market and banks are again looking outward.
How has the underwriting for these businesses changed during the past several years?
In the commercial lending market, the types of financials and tax returns it takes to underwrite loans has not changed too much. Commercial banks have generally needed a lot of information to examine the business's ability to pay back debt. While this is still true today, the current market is perhaps more conducive to borrowing compared to a few years ago. Banks have increased capital reserves in the recent past and as a result are more eager to lend. They are looking to diversify lending to include more commercial loans in their portfolio. Companies with adequate cash flow are attracting a lot of attention from commercial banks. There seems to be a good market for companies to get better pricing and terms than what they had two to three years ago.
H. Jesse Garcia is senior vice president and group manager of Bridge Bank's commercial lending office in Palo Alto, Calif. Reach him at (650) 462-8512 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
Insights Banking & Finance is brought to you by Bridge Bank


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Beck & Hersey
The Red Label collection is a mixture of preppy fitted casuals and a mixture of urban street wear - Great for guys with a stylish alter ego. Check out the cool collection of preppy tailored chinos, brand logo t-shirts, smart shirts, chunky hoodies, padded jackets and on trend footwear.
There are no products matching the selection.
Beck & Hersey fashion is all about optimism with a hard edge. Ultimately a street wear fashion brand for men with a posh twist.

subset: commoncrawl


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Student Life
The Division of Student Life actively supports the mission of Texas Woman's University and its learning environment. We are proud of the rich heritage of Texas Woman's University, and we encourage you to explore the possibilities that TWU has to offer.
Message from Dr. Richard Nicholas
Hello and welcome to YOUR university! The programs and services in the Division of Student Life are designed to supplement your academic experience and the credentials you build by enhancing your leadership skills. In addition, the programs and services are intended to help you develop your personal and professional goals. This is YOUR opportunity. Seize it! Take advantage of every opportunity. Whether it's joining a student organization, signing up for Boot Camp in Fitness and Recreation, serving on a university committee or taking advantage of the services we provide you – it's YOUR college experience.
This website is your guide to information and services on campus within Student Life. You can become familiar with the organizations on campus, learn about the resources and services designed to support your success and/or become acquainted with your rights and responsibilities as a student. I encourage you to read through the website, use it as a reference, and become familiar with the contents.
We look forward to the opportunity to meet you and to work with you during your time here at Texas Woman's University.
Richard Nicholas, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Life


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Sign-up to receive weekly Commercial Aviation email updates with news, commentary, photos, videos and more!
Comprehensive insight, context and analysis of technologies, business developments and operational trends in every segment of global aviation and aerospace.
Every business day, Aviation Daily's exclusive market data, detailed legislation/regulation information, and critical business intelligence keeps executives ahead of their competition.
See news of aerospace manufacturing programs, learn about capabilities, watch videos and read case studies.
Resources, news and career information for young A&D professionals
AW Insight: 777X
Emirates Challenges A380
Boeing 787 Pilot Report
Qatar Airways took delivery of its first Airbus A330F in December, a new A330-200F leased from BOC Aviation. The aircraft was originally destined for Yangtze River Express Airlines, but that airline has apparently decided not to take the aircraft. The aircraft is still at Toulouse undergoing work before being ferried to Doha.
Yangtze River Express Airlines originally agreed to lease five A330-200Fs from BOC Aviation, but only leased one. The second went to Hong Kong Airlines and Qatar Airways is to lease the remaining three.
According to Aviation Week Intelligence Network's Fleet database, Qatar Airways already operates seven freighters consisting of three A300-600Fs and four 777Fs. Another four 777Fs are on order.
Copyright © 2014, Penton


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8020 Bedford/euless Road, North Richland Hills
In ShortEstablished in 1982, this chain gained a following for its laid-back atmosphere and generous portions. Patrons settle into comfortable booths and tables in dining rooms…
5441 Rufe Snow, North Richland Hills
Barbecue spot serves up hearty portions of ribs and other Texas delights, available for catering.
9143 Grapevine Hwy Ste 650, N Richland Hills
In ShortGreeted by the freshly baked smell of waffle cones, visitors to Marble Slab Creamery are treated to an experience from years past. Here, ice cream cones are still molded…
8021 Main St, N Richland Hills
BBQ was unbelievably good, best I've had in years. Sides are terrific, especially the broccoli salad. I wouldn't stop there though the banana pudding was amazing as well. I own a…
5302 Davis Blvd, N Richland Hills
I used to live down the street from this place, and most of their food is amazing!
The house dressing is wonderful. They sell it in bottles at the counter. The thick and creamy…
5575 Davis Blvd., #100, North Richland Hills
Mina's has moved to Arlington. Now under the name of The Chicago Corner. Same great owners and food.
(817) 466-0008
6201 Matlock Road #123
Arlington, TX 76002
6413 Precinct Line Rd, North Richland Hills
They have a great variety of shakes and other ice cream creations and between 2-4 the shakes are half price. Yet unless your getting one of their burger, and one chicken, $4 value…
6645 NE Loop 820, North Richland Hills
In ShortA low-key, friendly environment attracts plenty of families to this reliable chain. Kids in the big booths--often clutching free balloons and crayons--usually outnumber…
7669 Grapevine Highway, N Richland Hills
In ShortWaitresses in shiny tan nylons and tight, orange, '70s track shorts serve up beer and pub grub at this proudly "tacky yet unrefined" sports bar-restaurant. Tables are…


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An afternoon update from the National Hurricane Center in Miami predicts the track of Hurricane Sandy will still lead the storm towards a landfall somewhere near Delaware Bay. Meanwhile, however, a new forecast model is calling for a direct hit in central New Jersey.
"This storm is for real," said meteorologist Steve DiMartino of NYNJPAWeather.com.
DiMartino said the latest European forecast model out at 2:30 p.m. showed the storm tracking more toward the Sandy Hook area than Delaware Bay.
No matter where landfall could occur, Jersey Shore residents and officials began preparing for the storm's wrath Friday, stocking up at stores and hauling boats out of the water.
State Police SUVs formed a convoy on Bridge Avenue in Point Pleasant Borough, each towing large police boats from the agency's station on the Point Pleasant Canal. On Long Beach Island, a line of about 10 vehicles stretched along Division Street at the Surf City municipal boat ramp as local residents hurried to pull their vessels out of the water.
Down the street, the Tuckerton Lumber Company was already out of sand bags.
"You're just a little too late," an employee told a customer. "We sold out this morning."
In Brick, a man operating a front loader was constructing a berm in front of the Ocean Club, a beachfront condominium complex.
No watches and warnings have been posted in New Jersey, though Cape May County's barrier islands and Mantoloking Borough, in Ocean County, each were under voluntary evacuations.
The National Hurricane Center's 2 p.m. update Friday showed Sandy tracking north at the snail's pace of 7 m.p.h. The weak category one hurricane was packing winds of 75 m.p.h. and was positioned about 430 miles southeast of Charleston, S.C.
The agency was still forecasting the storm to track south of where computer models forecasted earlier in the week, but the entire Shore Area was advised to keep tabs on the massive storm.
DiMartino said his expectation is that the official National Hurricane Center track will bring the projections on landfall a bit north this evening.
"All the models are having a difficult time with the track of this storm," he said.


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YouTube opens the vault to past lectures and interviews at Watson
April 23, 2014
April 23, 2014
April 21, 2014
April 21, 2014
Melani Cammett ─ Compassionate Communalism: Welfare and Sectarianism in Lebanon
5 p.m.
William Easterly ─ The Tyranny of Experts: Economists, Dictators and the Forgotten Rights of the Poor
4 p.m.
Learn more the Watson Institute's centers, initiatives, and programs focused on area and regional studies.
The Watson Institute also collaborates with centers of excellence across Brown University. Learn more.
The Watson Institute offers a variety of funding opportunities for faculty and undergraduate and graduate students.


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Individual Tickets
**Individual game tickets will go on sale to the general public Saturday, April 12, 2014 at 10 a.m.**
Individual game ticket pricing is as follows:
- "Big League" Scout Seats = $36 each ($35 each prior to day-of-game)
*Extra wide, padded seats located in the first two rows of sections 108 and 109 directly behind home plate featuring an all-you-can-eat/drink menu (hamburgers, hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn, cookies, ice cream, beer, soda and water, plus a rotating menu item each homestand) with waiter/waitress service.
- "Come Rock with Us" Rocking Chairs = $17 each ($16 each prior to day-of-game)
*Rocking chairs located in an EXCLUSIVE area just above sections 103 and 108
- Box Seats = $12 each ($11 each prior to day-of-game)
- Reserved Bleachers with Backs = $8 each
- Lawn Seats = $6 each
You can purchase individual game tickets the following ways:
- Click the link below. *There will be a $1.50 handling fee on each individual game ticket purchased online
- Contact the CornBelters Ticket Sales Department at (309) 454-2255 (BALL)
- Visit the Mid-Illini Credit Union Box Office (1000 W. Raab Rd., Normal, IL 61761) during normal business hours (Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.)
CLICK HERE for The Corn Crib seating chart.


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Are you an audio or home theater enthusiast? Do you love to argue about crossovers, wire gauge and ported speakers? Then this is an event for you.
Audioholics is hosting its annual Get Together Event in Tarpon Springs, Florida on October 27th. Live demo rooms will be hosted by some of the industry's leading A/V manufacturers (IE. Epson, SV Sound, Salk Audio, HSU and more…). There will be a meet and greet with Audioholics forum regulars, senior staff and participating manufacturers. Registration to this event is FREE and has many perks such as: Special lodging rates for Audioholics guests, Free Lunch, and chances to win door prizes.
Here's a sneak peek of what to expect at the event.
You can register at the official Audioholics Facebook page or visit the Audioholics Event Page for more details.Follow Electronic House on Facebook and Twitter.
Three typical configurations offer control via an app, as well as a wireless or hardwired tablet.
Elan g! smart home system combines home theater and control for free-agent offensive lineman.
One of these outdoor subwoofers help put the boom into your backyard music.


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When it comes to fashion, you've always gone your own way, and Gobbowl is no exception! Stand out from the crowd by unlocking extra colours and changing your Gobbowlers' style!
The following types of colour pack are available:
- Strip colour packs
- Gobbowler colour packs (skin, hair, eyes/mask)…
The purchase of a colour pack is valid for one use only, but there is no time limit for when it may be redeemed.
This service includes a team or Gobbowler appearance change so that you can apply your new colour.
Any changes made later will require the activation of extra services.


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Photo by Deborah Silver, Treasure Coast Newspapers
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Moghul Highlights MG
Visiting: India
Tour Duration 9 Days
Northern India Cultural Discovery
On this cultural and historical visit to India we admire some of the masterpieces of Moghul art and architecture. We discover Humayun's tomb in Delhi, the deserted sandstone city of Fatehpur Sikri and the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra. We also enjoy a rickshaw ride through Keoladeo National Park, search for Bengal tigers in Ranthambore National Park and witness Rajasthani village life in rural Karauli.
Tour Highlights
- Delhi - Ride a rickshaw through the winding streets of Old Delhi
- Agra - Watch the sunrise over the beautiful Taj Mahal
- Fathehpur Sikri - Explore Akbar the Great's famous deserted city
- Bharatpur National Park - Visit Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary
- Karauli - Visit the imposing Royal Palace, in use until 1950, now home to the evening aarti ceremony
- Ranthambore - Search for the elusive tiger on two included game drives
- Jaipur - Wander through the bustling markets and enjoy the impressive architecture of the Palace of the Winds
Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select.
1Join tour Delhi; City tour of New Delhi
2City tour of Old Delhi; drive to Agra
3Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
4Drive to Bharatpur via Fatehpur Sikri
5Drive to Karauli via Mahuwa & Hindaun
6Drive to Ranthambore; afternoon game drive
7Morning game drive; Drive to Jaipur.
8In Jaipur; Visit Amber Fort
9Tour ends in Jaipur
Tour notes
Each departure date has it's own dedicated tour note, detailing all you need to know about that tour. Whether you've already booked, or weighing up your options, please choose carefully the relevant itinerary for you.
We have the following different versions of the Moghul Highlights tour available at present.
Please select a date:


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7 Inch 4GB Android 2.3 Netbook
$95.00 Our Price
$299.99 Retail
Who says technology has to be big, clunky and boring….this upbeat and fun Netbook will change the way you feel about technology all together. The Sound Logic Portable Netbook features an Android Operating system which allows you to access the most popular Android apps online and the Docs on the Go will let you view Word, Excel and PowerPoint files in a snap. Look super cool with this portable 7" Netbook and steal the show at work and on your personal fashion runway. Want to know more? • 7" display netbook with touch keyboard and mouse • Processor speed 1GHZ • Wireless WiFi compatible • Three USB ports, SD card reader/writer, Ethernet and 3.5mm stereo plug audio out compatible device with speaker and support built-out microphone • 4GB internal memory with color TFT display • Built-in rechargeable battery • Earphones included


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A collection of scholarly works about individual liberty and free markets. A project of Liberty Fund, Inc.
The Parallel Bible. The Holy Bible containing the Old and New Testaments translated out of the Original Tongues: being the Authorised Version arranged in parallel columns with the Revised Version (Oxford University Press, 1885). The Gospel according to S. Mark. http://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/1182,
|Available in the following formats:
|Facsimile PDF
|This is a facsimile or image-based PDF made from scans of the original book.
|EBook PDF
|This text-based PDF or EBook was created from the HTML version of this book and is part of the Portable Library of Liberty.
|This version has been converted from the original text. Every effort has been taken to translate the unique features of the printed book into the HTML medium.
The Second Gospel of the New Testament. A parallel version with the King James Version in one column and the revised Version in another column. His is the oldest of the four Gospels and was used extensively by both Matthew and Luke in their work. The Gospel of Mark is traditionally said to have been based on the teachings of Peter, Mark's close companion and mentor. It is a chronological version of the life of Christ notable in part for the large number of parables it contains. The work reveals gradually the full nature of Jesus, his role on earth and in heaven, and the significance of the New Covenant.
The text is in the public domain.
This material is put online to further the educational goals of Liberty Fund, Inc. Unless otherwise stated in the Copyright Information section above, this material may be used freely for educational and academic purposes. It may not be used in any way for profit.


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Corey Maggette Agrees To Camp Deal With Spurs
Corey Maggette has agreed to a camp deal with the San Antonio Spurs.
Maggette most recently played for the Detroit Pistons.
The Cavaliers are expected to make a maximum five-year contract extension offer to Kyrie Irving this offseason. Read More.
The addition of Andre Iguodala looked a lot like Chicago's move for Ben Wallace on the surface, but the Warriors' timeline will remain dependent on how they remain in the 'deal flow' in constantly tinkering around Stephen Curry. Read More.
Written by Christopher Reina on Apr 15, 2014
The Cavaliers are expected to make a maximum five-year contract extension offer to Kyrie Irving this offseason. Read More.
The Knicks will have an option on Lamar Odom's contract for the 14-15 season. Read More.
Branden Dawson averaged 11.2 points and a team-best 8.3 rebounds for MSU in 2013-14. Read More.
Isaiah Austin is currently projected as the 38th overall pick by DraftExpress. Read More.
The Warriors recalled Ognjen Kuzmic and Nemanja Nedovic from the Santa Cruz Warriors. Read More.
Dario Saric will declare for the 2014 NBA Draft, though it is uncertain if he will remain beyond the withdrawal deadline. Read More.
Joakim Noah sat out the 2012 Olympics due to plantar fasciitis. Read More.
Myles Turner has grown a full inch since October. Read More.
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The recent rains that have fallen on Orange County since Thursday morning are expected to continue through Monday, as rain gauges begin to fill to the one-inch mark.
The National Weather Service released rainfall totals from Thursday morning through Saturday at 11 a.m:
John Wayne Airport 1.19
Laguna Hills .97
Santa Ana .93
Huntington Beach .85
Lake Forest .85
San Juan Capistrano .83
Laguna Beach .75
Dana Point .54
The National Weather Service said rain was expected to persist for the next 24 to 48 hours as onshore flow increases in ahead of a cold upper-level trough headed down the coast through Monday.
"This was a welcome and beneficial rain for the area including the deserts, where little rain has fallen so far this season," forecasters reported on the NWS website. "It is not quite over yet either."


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Home » News » Politics
NH Senate committee wants to keep stand-your-ground law despite push to repeal it
The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 4-1 Tuesday to kill House Bill 135, which would repeal the law that has been in affect since 2011.
The committee held a public hearing on the bill last week where supporters said the repeal is needed to restore the balance between self defense and the sanctity of human life that existed for 40 years, but opponents charge that repeal would put people's lives at risk if they don't defend themselves when they are threatened.
The bill is sponsored by House Majority Leader Steve Shurtleff, D-Concord, who told the committee "We don't need stand-your-ground in this state."
Shurtleff's bill would remove the section of law that extends the Castle Doctrine from a person's home and property to every place he or she has a right to be.
Under the old law, a person's first obligation was to retreat from danger if he or she could do so safely, before responding with deadly force. Under stand-your-ground, there is no obligation to retreat safely before using deadly force if a person feels threatened.
The stand-your-ground law was approved in 2011 over the veto of then-Gov. John Lynch and made New Hampshire one of about two dozen states with similar statutes.
The law gained national attention when unarmed Florida teenager Trayvon Martin was shot and killed by George Zimmerman, who claimed self-defense and said he was being beaten by Martin.
The bill has little chance of passing the Republican controlled Senate, but it did pass the Democratically-controlled House on a 189-184 vote.
The Senate is not likely to vote on the bill before May 16.
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Vehicle Registration Collections - Contact Information
If you want to talk to someone about a collection notice, you must be the registered owner of the vehicle or have a power of attorney from the registered owner.
Before you call, have the account number ready.
For a delinquent vehicle registration debt, the account number is the vehicle license plate number followed by the last year the vehicle was registered.
For a dishonored check debt, the account number begins with the letter D.
FTB Delinquent Vehicle Registration Collections
888.355.6872, 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday, except state holidays.
DMV Delinquent Vehicle Registration
916.657.8120 (not toll free)
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Wednesday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Department of Motor Vehicles - Dishonored Checks
916.657.8101 (not toll free), 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday, except state holidays.


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Cancellation Policy: 24 hours notice requird.
Restrictions: Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability. No cash alternative. No change given.
Good to know: If you select your date and time for the service at time of booking, we'll confirm your appointment and will get back to you. If you are purchasing an evoucher, you will need to call the venue directly to book your treatment times once you receive your order confirmation.
Minimum age: 16
Applicable days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Hair Salon
Cutting Edge staff have over 30 years experience and established their business over 10 years ago. Since opening Cutting Edge, our principle has remained the same - to offer the highest quality hairdressing in a truly friendly and caring environment. Staff are professional in their work, highly traied with a positive attitude and friendly manner to clients.
We offer hair cutting, highlights, tinting, colour change, straightening, perm, hair up, wedding hair, Deep Masque treatment, specialist hair treatments, Yuko straightening, Brazilian straightening (Keratin), L'Orial X-Tenso, and afro hair relaxer.
Once becoming a client, the salon's philosophy is for those new clients to want to return regularly so we can work together in creating hairstyles that look gorgeous and are easy to maintain at home. We use some of the finest professional hair products within the salon, and also offer many of them, for purchase to take home. We also offer free consultations and advice as part of our friendly service.
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Online bookings let you pick date/time for your visit.
If you purchase an eVoucher you will need to book with the venue directly.
Wahanda gift vouchers are redeemable at over 2100 locations. You must use it to pay as you would with cash.


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April Daniels Hussar, SELF magazine
You probably haven't taken your warm boots and cozy sweaters out of storage yet, but one autumn accessory you might already be using is ... Kleenex! Yep -- fall allergy season is already under way. Luckily, we have relief.
"In the Eastern part of the United States, the ragweed season traditionally starts around mid-August and lasts until the first frost," William Berger, M.D., clinical professor of allergy and immunology at the University of California at Irvine, tells HealthySELF. September is peak allergy season for many states, including those in the Midwest; if you're on the West Coast, the season is a little bit later and involves different weeds, like sagebrush, he says.
You may have heard that the drought is making this an especially bad year for allergies, but Dr. Berger says there are many different climate-related factors when it comes to the severity of an allergy season, and there's not really anything special about thisRead More »from How to Cope with Fall Allergies


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Over 10,000 employers user our site to find great talent. Create a professional profile and get found when they search for students!
2014 Finance Internships in West Palm Beach, FLFinance Internships
Find a 2014 finance Internship in West Palm Beach, FL. Why should you consider finance internships you ask? Well, they say that money rules the world, and no matter how you may feel about this statement, it's a pretty accurate claim. But with this in mind, careers in the financial sector are always expanding; in this economy, people are turning to financial advisors more than ever, and this occupation and others like it are only expected to continue growing. A recent article by CNBC named "Accounting/Finance" as a field in its top ten "most in-demand jobs," since employees in finance help companies manage their top priority, money! And it doesn't hurt that finance careers have some of the highest average salaries of all job arenas. That's why internships in finance are a great idea. For those who aren't sure if this field is right for them, it's a way to test the waters and get a feel for the industry, and for business or accounting majors looking to gain experience by becoming an intern in finance, it makes for a fantastic step towards the financial career track.
Another great thing about finance internships is that they're incredibly prevalent, not only on Wall Street, but everywhere throughout the country. Of course finance summer internships can be found at the major companies, like Goldman Sachs, which offers programs for both "Summer Analysts" and "Summer Associates," but they can be nabbed at smaller banks and credit unions as well. This versatility is incredibly useful when students are searching for a way (and a place) to get their foot in the door on the path to their dream careers.
Finance Internships in West Palm Beach, FL 1 – 10 of 20
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Our Price: $45.16
Sale: $39.49 (13% off)
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Versa Alto Saxophone Ligature and Cap
Remaining Quantity: 152
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for a virtually new instrument in possibly less-than-perfect packaging, this is
a great value. We feel so strongly you'll like what you see, we're including our
60-Day Satisfaction Guarantee on instruments and 30 days on accessories, to this used product making it a no-risk purchase.
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Condition 2 products are a terrific value and you can buy with confidence knowing
our 60-Day Satisfaction Guarantee on instruments and 30 days on accessories applies to this used product.
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Accidental damage, normal wear and power surges are no longer an issue with these comprehensive and affordable plans. We even pay to ship your gear for repairs. More details.
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Behringer ULTRATONE K1800FX Keyboard Amp/PA SystemThe Behringer ULTRATONE K1800FX is a keyboard amp and PA sytem with 180W of power, so you'll never run out of horsepower. The K1800FX is a 4-channel PA/keyboard amplifier enclosed in a bass reflex cabinet. It has a special beefed up 12" woofer and a custom-made 1" tweeter, delivering clear, clean sound that's ideal for larger gigs. It includes an internal 24-bit digital FX processor with 100 awesome presets including reverb, chorus, flanger, delay, pitch shifter and various multi-effects. The FBQ Feedback Detection System immediately indicates any frequency that is feeding back so you know precisely what to adjust. Enjoy full 4-channel stereo operation with separate volume and FX Send controls per channel, plus there is an additional XLR mic input on channel 1 for direct connection of a dynamic microphone. Use the dedicated 7-band graphic EQ to give your sound your very own edge.
Order today with the no-risk assurance of our Total Satisfaction and Low Price Guarantees!
It's a good monitor when you can't trust the mix.
I'm using this amp to replace a Behringer KX1200. The KX1200 tends to be very boomy on the bass and very bright on the treble. The K1800FX is just as loud as the KX1200, and has a much tighter sound, i.e. less boomy and clearer across the spectrum. It is significantly smaller and lighter than the KX1200, and the metal grille is a big improvement. Straight out of the box, the tone seemed a little muffled, but I was able to easily adjust the sound to my liking with the 7-band EQ. I haven't used the effects yet, and I don't plan on using them much. I also haven't tested vocals with the amp yet, but the feedback detection system and XLR input make this a great candidate for PA duty.
Dislike: the small plastic knobs on top of the amp - they seem likely to break and they do not have enough clearance from the top of the amp. I'll have to be careful to not put anything heavy on top of the amp.
Overall, this is a terrific amp at a great price. Behringer products have been reliable for me in the past (I've only had to replace a blown speaker on the KX1200). Behringer took a long time getting this product to market, but the wait has been worth it.
* Price guarantee valid on all new in-stock merchandise sold by an authorized U.S. Dealer. Guarantee does not apply to discontinued, blemished, damaged, closeout, open box, refurbished or auction items. You will be contacted via email shortly after submission of request.


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A Moorpark man was arrested on suspicion of felony driving under the influence Wednesday night after police said his vehicle hit another one head-on along the 200 block of Poindexter Avenue in Moorpark.
Police said man, Gil Calderon, apparently fled the scene of the collision, which was reported at 9:46 p.m.
Calderon, 32, was found nearby and was arrested, police said.
Meanwhile, the driver of the other vehicle was taken to Los Robles Hospital & Medical Center in Thousand Oaks in critical condition, authorities said. Two children who were in the vehicle with her were taken to Simi Valley Hospital with what authorities said were moderate injuries.
Police said Calderon apparently lived nearby. He was not charged with anything else, police said, although the incident remained under investigation Wednesday night.
The collision occurred just north of the Chaparral Middle School and south of the railroad tracks in the center of town.