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Senior Financial Adviser
Our Team
Advice Team
Senior Financial Adviser
Phillip commenced his career in Financial Planning during the final year of his Economics degree at the Australian National University in 1995. Phillip then moved to Sydney to work in both boutique and institutional financial planning firms, whilst also completing his post graduate studies in Financial Planning, attaining the professional designation of Certified Financial Planner®.
Phillip holds a Bachelor of Economics (majoring in Statistics) from the Australian National University and a Diploma of Financial Planning from Deakin University.
Phillip is a member of the Financial Planning Association of Australia and the Boutique Financial Planning Group (BFP), having been an Executive member for 4 years.
Phillip lives in the Blue Mountains with his wife and two sons, and enjoys outdoor activities such as bush walking, road and mountain bike riding and golf. Being from Wagga Wagga, Phillip's sense of community shows him coaching his son's soccer team and managing his cricket side. Phillip is a volunteer fire-fighter with the Warrimoo Bush Fire Brigade and combines his passion for cycling with fund raising activities, including riding 1000kms over 7 days to raise close to $7,000 for the Future2 Foundation , one of the industry's way of making a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most, giving disadvantaged young Australians a second chance and hope for a better future.
Phillip has a strong interest and knowledge of investment markets and is constantly exploring "cutting edge" strategies to deliver to the clients of Profile.
Chris W.
I feel secure due to the personal interest of Mr. Win and his staff…Most interesting are the invitations to the seminars/luncheons and post budget evening, most informative and we have the opportunity to share our opinions.
Ken P.
I believe that I get good advice and Phillip always answers my questions promptly.
Andrew M.
I feel that the advice we receive is tailored and objective. Phillip is engaging and is willing to challenge us which I respect.
Joan M.
The firm works hard at innovating and Phillip is exceptional in his communication.
Ben S.
Phillip has looked after my parents for quite a number of years. We just started using him personally, not a lot as yet, however the relationship will grow over the years. He has always done a great job for my folks, so far he has been great for us as well.
Barry C.
I have known Phillip Win for over ten years in a business capacity.
At all times I have found Phillip to be extremely helpful and supportive of me in my on-going battle with an insurance company.
Phillip has stood by and assisted me in relation to financial matters, medical matters or terms and definitions in the insurance policy, always in a timely manner.
Phillip has also proved to be very reliable, always returning phone calls or emails without delay.
Without his professional support throughout the whole process, the battle I endured with an insurance company would have been far more difficult.
Kurt initially joined Profile in 1999, working part-time in the administration team while completing his University studies. On completion of his degree, he moved into corporate banking with the Commonwealth Bank, where he developed a strong knowledge of entity structures, as well as cashflow and debt structuring. In 2006 Kurt returned to Profile, where he now works as a Senior Financial Planner.
Kurt's passion for planning is to help people make their own, well-informed financial choices by breaking down complex information and situations, and identifying the important issues that need to be addressed. He has a particular interest in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs) and the range of beneficial strategies they can open up for clients. Kurt holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Economics (Majoring in Corporate Finance, Economics and Agricultural Economics) and a Diploma of Financial Planning. He is a member of both the Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA) and the Self-Managed Superannuation Professionals' Association of Australia (SPAA).
Maxine M.
Returns have been within target range. Excellent communication. In particular, Kurt's clear explanations, great patience and engaging personality. Willingness to take petty administrative tasks off me and solve them for me. Accessibility of any person who I have needed to contact. All staff unfailingly pleasant, helpful and polite. – Hugh M
My financial status has improved dramatically since Profile took over it. My confidence in Kurt Ohlsen and his colleagues is absolute too, have no doubt about Kurt's integrity and that of the company.
Rod T.
Total confidence in Kurt and his staff plus their product knowledge and plans for my future financial requirements.
John W.
We have been with Profile for 12 years from the date of retirement. (I had also benefited from Profile as adviser to my employer for 15 years prior to retirement). Since retirement Profile's investment advice has been exceptional in supporting my allocated pension. A major factor in highly rating Profile is the personal one-on-one service provided. This includes a vast amount of retirement advice as well as pure financial advice. We speak very highly of Kurt's personal and friendly association.
Judy M.
Kurt is very professional and articulate but can still make you feel like he is talking to a friend.
John B.
Taking time, giving examples and explaining well financial advice/requirements. Able to contact him no matter how small your query may be Kurt is very approachable.
Scott joined Profile in 2011 as an Associate Financial Planner. Originally hailing from the USA, Scott has worked in the Australian financial services industry since 2008. He began his career here as an analyst for a small financial services publishing firm, before joining UBS Wealth Management and then Profile. Promoted to Financial Planner in July 2014, Scott works meticulously on creating strategies to ensure clients' financial and personal goals are met. He prides himself on delivering exceptional customer service and support.
Scott holds a Masters in Personal Financial Planning, an Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning and is an accredited Aged Care Professional. In July 2016, Scott earned his Certified Financial Planner® designation, the highest designation in the profession. He is also a member of the Financial Planning Association of Australia.
In his free time Scott enjoys playing soccer, golf, travelling, and keeping up with American sports – especially ice hockey, with his favourite team being the Dallas Stars!
John T.
I am very grateful for the way in which Scott took me through our investments, the background to an understanding of where we are heading, and his advice about our future. Scott patiently gave me a very good understanding of our financial position, both present and in future.
Vini V.
Scott is excellent at providing sound advice tailored to your specific circumstances. He takes the time to understand your needs, and is patient and thorough with his advice. I would recommend Scott to anyone wanting to reassess and achieve their financial goals.
Daniela and Jaimie W.
We have known Scott since he joined Profile in 2011 and he has been our advisor for the past 4 years. We hold him in the highest regard and value his judgement, professionalism, honest personal manner, great communication skills and trustworthiness.
Scott has successfully seen us through some difficult financial periods. Throughout these times, he has shown an ability to understand our approach to investing and has exhibited a great capacity to guide us through the complexities of long-term investing in order to reach our financial goals. Over the years he has become more than just an advisor to us, he has become a trusted partner in our endeavors to establish a strong financial base for our future.
In his work, Scott combines dynamism, intelligence, empathy and foresight, as well as excellent analytical and communicative skills. We have no hesitation in recommending Scott to anyone looking for a financial planner.
Maureen O S.
I have been with Profile Financial Services for over twenty-five years. For the last three years Scott Ungaro has been my financial advisor, I have relied on Scott to provide me
with the financial information and advice I need. Scott has been very helpful, explaining how my portfolio is going and keeping me informed at all times.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Scott Ungaro to anyone who needs financial assistance.
Kelly joined Profile in July 2018 as Senior Financial Planner – having started her Financial Planning career in 1993 at Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, whilst completing her Bachelor of Commerce. After a relatively short stint with MLC in a Corporate role, Kelly longed to get back to working directly with clients and in 1995 joined a boutique Financial Planning firm in Sydney.
In 2000, Kelly started her own Financial Planning practice in Parramatta, where she was able to build a successful business focussed on building sincere personal relationships with her clients, many of whom she regards as friends today. In 2010 the business was purchased by Strategic Wealth Solutions and Kelly continued in her role until July 2018.
Over the course of her career to date, Kelly has achieved her Degree in Commerce (majoring in Economics and Finance) from the University of Western Sydney, completed the Diploma of Financial Planning from Deakin University and attained the professional designation of Certified Financial Planner in 1999. Kelly has been an active member of the Financial Planning Association since 1994.
Kelly is happily married with two children and lives in Kellyville. Family is central to Kelly who is engaged in many activities along with her husband and children. Kelly has enjoyed many volunteer positions over the years and is currently the Secretary of the National Water Ski Racing Association Region V Australia. Kelly enjoys many social activities and loves to spend time with family and friends at Lake Conjola, on the South Coast of NSW.
Igor joined Profile as a Senior Adviser as part of the merger of his business Orion Financial Group and Profile in 2019. Igor has an extensive history in the financial services profession and has been advising clients on risk management strategies for more than 35 years. Prior to that he had an illustrious career in accounting. Igor holds a Bachelor of Accounting, CPA and is a qualified financial adviser.
He is well known and respected across our profession as one of the best when it comes to insurance, having won many awards over over his career. Born on the other side of the world he's a self-made man who knows what's like to build a life for yourself and your family and loves seeing the difference he makes in his client's lives when they need it the most. When not building his business you'll find him at Bunnings or on the golf course.
Sacha joined Profile as a Senior Adviser as part of the merger of Orion Financial Group and Profilein 2019. Sacha has been advising for more than 10 years and holds a Bachelor of Arts and is a qualified financial adviser, specialising in risk advice.
Sacha was born to do this job, having grown up hearing all about business at the dinner table with Igor and Jennifer -who are her parents and also employees of Profile. With a passion for exploring, educating and pushing boundaries Sacha uses specialist risk management strategies to protect her clients whilst on their life journey,and helps them improve their financial literacy in the most innovative ways she can. When she's not innovating you'll find Sacha (or not) in some far-flung corner of the world doing something crazy –thank goodness her insurance strategies are in place!
Leanna Katsikaris joined Profile in March 2020. Leanna is a business insurance specialist with over 18 years' experience working in financial services industry with majority of her career specialising in personal and business insurance.
Over the years, Leanna has gained deeper understanding of the intertwined relationship between business and personal, to build an effective strategic contingency plan in this business. Working closely with her clients/business owners and their professional advisers to deliver meaningful insurance advice specific to their needs.
Rachael joined the team in July 2014, following 2 years with Centric Wealth Advisers. During her 3 years working as an Associate Financial Adviser under the guidance of two of Profile's Senior Financial Advisers, Rachael built on her knowledge from her studies and gained the experience of assisting in all aspects of the client planning process. Having attained the necessary qualifications and experience as an Associate Financial Adviser, Rachael was promoted to the role of Financial Adviser in July 2017 and continues to feel passionate about delivering a high quality service, and developing new strategies to ensure her clients' financial well-being.
Rachael completed a Bachelor of Business degree majoring in Finance at UTS, Sydney and then continued on to complete the Diploma of Financial Planning and the Advanced Diploma of Financial Planning. She is currently working towards her Certified Financial Planner CFP® designation.
Rachael enjoys travelling, having caught the travel bug at an early age after living in Sydney, Singapore and Perth before the age of 10. She also enjoys keeping active and volunteering at a Social Club for those with intellectual disabilities.
Michael B.
My wife and I have been advised by Rachael Arnold for five years and it has been an unmitigated pleasure. Rachael is expert, proactive, meticulous (meets every deadline), and delivers service with a smile. I have introduced Rachael to advise friends and family and without exception they have been delighted with her services. I can't imagine not having Rachael as a trusted partner for our finances!
Leonie K.
Rachael has been my adviser for 2 years now but we have been working together for almost 5 years.
I am very happy with the way she listens to understand my issues and suggests solutions for my particular needs. Being on my own I value having Rachael to discuss my plans with. She has provided very valuable input to my decisions.
Last year I sold the last of my real estate investments and Rachael constructed a personalised portfolio of managed funds to invest the proceeds. This will give me much better income than the rent I was receiving while conserving my capital which was my goal.
She has also helped me with smaller one-off tasks which has made my financial management easier such as constructing a spreadsheet which allows me to track the ongoing income and value of my portfolio and chasing up some private international shares I wish to sell.
I enjoy working with Rachael and have confidence in her advice.
Stephen joined Profile Financial Services in late 2018 as an Associate Financial Adviser for our Mudgee office. With over 30 years' experience in institutional financial services, Stephen has chosen to move into financial advisory at this time to help deliver meaningful outcomes to clients, as well as focusing on bringing new levels of trust, accountability and transparency.
Previously Stephen was Head of Australia Institutional at J.P. Morgan Asset Management, with prior senior roles at BNY Mellon Asset Management and Barclays Global Investors (now BlackRock). He has a Master of Commerce Degree in Funds Management from the University of NSW and is a Certified Investment Management Analyst.
Stephen is married with two adult children and is enjoying his "tree change" and new country lifestyle in Mudgee. Outside of work he is a keen motorsport enthusiast and participant, as well as regularly undertaking 4WD camping holidays to the more remote parts of Australia.
Jessica joined Profile in 2018 as an Associate Financial Adviser after working as a tax accountant and spending a few years working in Real Estate. Prior to this, Jessica completed a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Wollongong, with majors in both Accounting and Finance.
Jessica has had experience working as a tax accountant for individuals and small entities in local firms, as well as on a larger scale when she worked for KPMG in Canberra on Government tax advisory projects. Working in the local Real Estate office fulfilled her passion for connecting with people and helping them through some of their biggest life decisions and handling, for most people, their largest asset. Jessica's decision to join Profile was in line with this passion for helping clients with some of these larger life decisions.
Born and raised in Mudgee with a short time away for University, Jessica is proud to call Mudgee home. On weekends her love for food and wine finds her frequenting local wineries, and spending time cooking at home and entertaining family and friends.
Craig joined Profile's compliance team in October 2019. He has over 18 years' experience in various roles in the financial services industry including, client relations, compliance management, compliance auditing, and paraplanning.
Craig holds a Bachelor of Industrial Design, Diploma of Financial Planning and Post Graduate Diplomas in Financial Planning and Applied Finance and is currently an AFP® member of the Financial Planning Association of Australia.
Craig lives in Northwest Sydney with his wife and three sons and enjoys training and competing in endurance events such as triathlons and cycling including participating in the 2019 FPA Future2 Foundation charity ride. When time permits he also enjoys the occasional self-supported multi day hike in remote places such as Southwest Tasmania.
Craig is also the current Chairperson of the local Scouts Group Parent Committee.
Nicholas joined Profile in November 2019 as an Associate Adviser. He began working in the financial advice industry in 2015 and has previously worked at Bridges Financial Services practices in Sydney and Wollongong. He enjoys the variety of work in financial planning and seeing the peace of mind that quality advice and planning brings to Profile's clients.
Nicholas completed his Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning in 2019 with Kaplan Professional Education and also holds a Bachelor of Science majoring in mathematics from the University of New South Wales. He is a member of the Financial Planning Association of Australia.
Nicholas lives in Austinmer on the South Coast and on the weekend he enjoys bushwalking in the Illawarra Escarpment area.
Ashley joined Profile in July 2018 as Senior Associate Financial Planner. With over 11 years' experience in Financial Advice – gained across different planning firms – Ashley has worked with a variety of clients at all stages of their lives and careers, helping them to create and secure a prosperous financial future.
Ashley is currently completing his Bachelor of Economics at Macquarie University and soon to begin his study towards Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) accreditation.
Andrew joined the team in October 2017 as Associate Financial Planner and is committed to developing his professional expertise while gaining experience providing an excellent financial advice service to our clients. He has his sights set on attaining a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) qualification and gaining further skills through continued training. His passion for engaging with clients stems from a background in small business ownership and he uses financial strategy, excellent business ethics and well-formed decisions to build meaningful customer relationships.
Andrew's drive comes from a passion for financial strategy combined with an appetite for ethical practices. With the many changes the industry is undertaking, Andrew is positioned to spearhead a new wave of ambitious and zealous advisers that put the client's interests first, one client at a time.
Away from the office, Andrew is an adventurous traveler with a thirst for new experiences. He dabbles in drum playing, loves the beach, and keeps fit by swimming laps before coming into the office. Living and breathing an active lifestyle gives Andrew the energy to take on challenges with his best foot forward.
Karla joined Profile as part of the acquisition of Orion Financial Group in 2019. Karla has over 16 years' experience in the insurance profession and began working with Igor Loutkovsky, also an employee of Profile, in 2003 when she came in for insurance advice and left with a job!
She's worked her way up the ranks and with a passion for investing Karla enjoys being able to help other investors and families put a safety net in place so they can sleep at night. Living a relaxed life by the beach has its advantages and Karla has a knack of helping our clients feel that they're in safe hands. That's where you'll find Karla these days, watching her 2 sons enjoy nippers with her husband and her dog, Echo.
Charlie joined the Profile team in March 2020 as an Associate Financial Planner after previously working in a similar role on the Gold Coast. He was drawn to the financial planning industry as he has a passion for helping people and is enthusiastic about the opportunity to impact peoples financial lives for the better.
Charlie completed a Bachelor of Finance degree Majoring in Finance and Financial Planning. He is currently working towards completing his professional year through the guidance of the experienced Profile advice team.
In his downtime Charlie enjoys exploring new places and meeting new people. He also keeps fit by playing football and going to the gym.
Other Team Members
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer
Peter joined the Profile Board as chairman in early 2015.
Peter has over 31 years of experience in banking and financial services, including 23 years with the NAB and 8 years with Macquarie Bank. He is an accomplished Senior Executive and director who has worked at senior executive levels for over 20 years, including appointments within Australia, the UK and the USA.
Peter is passionate about conscious leadership and driving performance through leveraging people, and for the past 6 years has developed a career as an executive coach, a consultant in the field of strategy and leadership development and as a company director. He currently sits on the Board of the Create Foundation supporting the Foundation's involvement with children in the Australian care system.
Peter loves spending time with his family, travelling, keeping abreast of current and international affairs and following the trends in international financial markets. He is also is a keen distance runner and regularly raises funds for charities through his fitness activities.
He is an experienced leader, board member, chairman and a champion for clients. He believes strongly in values-based business principles and is keen to make a difference at Profile.
Head of Investments
Jerome Bodisco has over 20 years of financial services experience spanning investment research, investment consulting, funds management, stockbroking and financial planning.
Prior to joining Profile, Jerome was employed as a senior investment consultant for JANA and Private Investment Consulting (NAB Asset Management).
He has a Bachelor of Mathematics and Finance and holds a Master of Business in Finance degree from the University of Technology. Jerome was awarded IMCA's CIMA Program Scholarship in 2010 and is a Certified Investment Management Analyst.
General Manager
Lena became Profile's General Manager in November 2019 after joining Profile as Head of Operations in early 2018. She has over 20 years industry experience having started her financial services career with a family-owned financial planning practice in 1999, after finishing a Bachelor of Business. She learnt the ropes initially as an Administration Assistant and has since held most roles typically found in a practice including Financial Adviser and Head of Advice.
Lena's career saw her move from Canberra to Melbourne working for a mid-tier accounting firm and a small listed company before arriving in Sydney in 2006. She then spent several years working for a major Australian bank learning about distribution, sales, business development and the broader machinations of the industry in their wealth management division. It is here that Lena got to work with hundreds of financial planning practices all over Australia and appreciate what differentiates practices within the industry. After having her son, Lena has moved back into private practice; first with a mid-tier accounting firm before arriving at Profile.
Her academic resume supports her career interests and achievements with an Executive MBA from the Australian Graduate School of Management, financial planning and adult education qualifications. She has also attended a Strategic Leadership course at the Stanford Graduate School of Business in the US.
Lena's favourite aspect of this industry is the fascinating and varied life stories of clients and staff she works with and believes passionately that client education is a key component of a good wealth business. She loves that the industry progressively improves for the benefit of clients and the opportunity to build a sustainable business around that.
Lena and her family are massive foodies and she is perpetually grateful her partner and stepdaughter love to do all the home cooking. This happily leaves Lena as General Manager on the home front too in addition to being one half of a dynamic duo with their young son in lots of superhero adventures.
Office Co-ordinator
Sharon joined Profile in August 2011 and is part of our Administration Support Team. Prior to joining Profile she worked with State Super Financial Services for over 18 years, in both administration and client services roles.
Sharon loves spending time with her three children and her six grandchildren. When a little quiet time is needed she enjoys reading and knitting.
Office Co-ordinator
Natalia joined Profile in October 2017 and is part of our administration support team. Prior to joining Profile, Natalia worked in the banking and credit union sector of financial services for over 15 years, developing her office management and client services skills. Led by her desire to help others, Natalia is eager to assist the team in helping our clients achieve their financial goals.
Originally a singer and dancer in her mid 20's and subsequently becoming a dance teacher and voice coach, Natalia is fuelled by her passion for performing arts and enjoys attending a variety of concerts, as well as partaking in the occasional karaoke. A firm believer in work-life balance, at home Natalia keeps busy taking care of her family – including a husband, two boys, parrot, and two cats.
Senior Insurance Administrator
Jennifer joined Profile as part of the acquisition of Orion Financial Group in 2019. Ever-patient and always on the ball Jennifer has been working together with her husband Igor, also an employee of Profile, for more than 30 years and raised three children in that time; you might say she's been quite busy!
Jennifer heads up insurance client services and review channels, a process she's been pivotal in refining so that our clients have the best ongoing service experience. To keep up with this pocket rocket you'll need to enjoy going to the beach, gardening and dining out.
Insurance Administrator
Erica joined Profile as part of the acquisition of Orion Financial Group in 2019. Erica is the quick wit of the office, always ready with a joke or well-timed comment. Erica joined the financial advice profession in 2010 after taking some time out to raise her two sons.
Erica is the details person when it comes to insurance–if you need to know anything about a process, a particular insurance provider's strengths or weaknesses, or how to pay your overdue policy Erica is your go-to. Erica must bring these skills to the office from her favourite pastime: playing soccer year-round!
Compliance Manager
Alison originally joined Profile in 2000. Alison assists the Financial Planners in providing comprehensive and specialist advice to clients, as well as managing Profile's compliance obligations including chairing the Compliance Committee. Alison came to Profile with extensive experience in the administration of corporate superannuation funds and enjoys helping her colleagues with superannuation and technical matters.
Alison's formal qualifications include a Bachelor of Economics from the University of NSW, a Diploma of Superannuation Management from Macquarie University, and a Diploma of Financial Planning from Deakin University.
Senior Client Services Officer
Anita joined Profile in 2007 shortly after moving from New Zealand to Australia. She is currently working as a Senior Client Administrator. She is a graduate in Economics and has undertaken post graduate study in Public Administration. Anita loves to spend her free time with her family. She enjoys outdoor activities with her two sons and watching movies. But shopping still remains on top of the list!
Finance Manager
Debbie joined Profile in 2003 as our Finance Manager after having worked for the previous twenty years in the banking industry. After forging a career in the finance industry as well as raising a family, in recent years Debbie has also been pursuing her two other loves: travelling outback Australia, and photography.
She has completed her Certificate IV in Photo Imaging, and since graduating has been the recipient of many photographic awards. Debbie is looking forward to documenting many further fantastic outback trips in her spare time with her photographic skills!
Client Services Officer
Lucia joined the team in early 2016 after having worked as a client services manager with another boutique financial planning firm in Parramatta. She is in the process of completing her Diploma of Financial Planning, having already completed two core units, and also holds a Diploma of Events.
Lucia is a single mother to her 6 year old son who is the light of her life and is also in the process of writing a motivational book to help inspire other single mothers on their journey.
In her own time she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, cooking and dancing.
Client Support Officer
Karen grew up in Mudgee and moved to Newcastle after finishing school, to complete a Diploma in Business Management at Passmores Business and Management College.
Having completed her Diploma, Karen moved back to Mudgee in 2011 to be closer to her family and started working for onePlan in 2012 as a Client Service Officer. Karen loves helping clients reach their goals and gets great satisfaction from the feeling of having everything in place and finalized for her clients. She is looking forward to bringing this passion to her new role of Client Support Officer at Profile.
Karen loves spending her spare with her family, including her two nephews and is also kept busy with her puppy Hugo! Karen also loves traveling and weekend getaways.
Finance Manager
Nicole joined Profile in July 2018 and is part of our Finance team. Prior to joining Profile Nicole has had over 20 years of finance experience spanning across a range of industries from financial services to building and infrastructure.
Nicole is kept busy with her 3 beautiful daughters, volunteers as Treasurer for their school P&C committee and enjoys gardening in her spare time.
Compliance Manager
Anna joined Profile in 2019 as a full time Compliance Manager having worked in the Financial Services industry for over 20 years with companies such as Citibank, Rabobank, Macquarie Bank and Aon.
Anna graduated with a BA in Public Relations and worked as an intern in Public Relations before finding her niche in Financial Services as a Senior Paraplanner after trying her hand as an Authorised Representative and undertaking taking further study to attain a Diploma in Financial Services with Kaplan. Anna prides herself on her high standards of ethics and honesty and felt that a Compliance role would be a natural progression in her career.
In her downtime Anna enjoys visiting art museums, reading and spending time with her family trying out new places to eat, going to the movies and travelling.
Our Board
Board Members
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer
Peter joined the Profile Board as chairman in early 2015.
Peter has over 31 years of experience in banking and financial services, including 23 years with the NAB and 8 years with Macquarie Bank. He is an accomplished Senior Executive and director who has worked at senior executive levels for over 20 years, including appointments within Australia, the UK and the USA.
Peter is passionate about conscious leadership and driving performance through leveraging people, and for the past 6 years has developed a career as an executive coach, a consultant in the field of strategy and leadership development and as a company director. He currently sits on the Board of the Create Foundation supporting the Foundation's involvement with children in the Australian care system.
Peter loves spending time with his family, travelling, keeping abreast of current and international affairs and following the trends in international financial markets. He is also is a keen distance runner and regularly raises funds for charities through his fitness activities.
He is an experienced leader, board member, chairman and a champion for clients. He believes strongly in values-based business principles and is keen to make a difference at Profile.
Managing Director, Senior Financial Adviser
Phillip commenced his career in Financial Planning during the final year of his Economics degree at the Australian National University in 1995. Phillip then moved to Sydney to work in both boutique and institutional financial planning firms, whilst also completing his post graduate studies in Financial Planning, attaining the professional designation of Certified Financial Planner®.
Phillip holds a Bachelor of Economics (majoring in Statistics) from the Australian National University and a Diploma of Financial Planning from Deakin University.
Phillip is a member of the Financial Planning Association of Australia and the Boutique Financial Planning Group (BFP), having been an Executive member for 4 years.
Phillip lives in the Blue Mountains with his wife and two sons, and enjoys outdoor activities such as bushwalking, road and mountain bike riding and golf. Being from Wagga Wagga, Phillip's sense of community shows him coaching his son's soccer team and managing his cricket side. Phillip is a volunteer fire-fighter with the Warrimoo Bush Fire Brigade and combines his passion for cycling with fundraising activities, including riding 1000kms over 7 days to raise close to $7,000 for the Future2 Foundation , one of the industry's way of making a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most, giving disadvantaged young Australians a second chance and hope for a better future.
Phillip has a strong interest and knowledge of investment markets and is constantly exploring "cutting edge" strategies to deliver to the clients of Profile.
Senior Financial Planner
Kurt initially joined Profile in 1999, working part-time in the administration team while completing his University studies. On completion of his degree, he moved into corporate banking with the Commonwealth Bank, where he developed a strong knowledge of entity structures, as well as cashflow and debt structuring. In 2006 Kurt returned to Profile, where he now works as a Senior Financial Planner.
Kurt's passion for planning is to help people make their own, well-informed financial choices by breaking down complex information and situations, and identifying the important issues that need to be addressed. He has a particular interest in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs) and the range of beneficial strategies they can open up for clients. Kurt holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Economics (Majoring in Corporate Finance, Economics and Agricultural Economics) and a Diploma of Financial Planning. He is a member of both the Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA) and the Self-Managed Superannuation Professionals' Association of Australia (SPAA).
2019Profile welcomes the staff and clients of Orion Financial Group to the firm2019Profile welcomes the staff and clients of Orion Financial Group to the firm
Orion, an insurance-focused firm based in Parramatta, literally just around the corner from Profile's existing Parramatta office, was known to the Profile team for some time and we began exploring ways to work together as the principals (Igor and Jennifer Loutkovsky) finalised their long-term succession plan. Joining the two firms together gave Profile clients a specialist insurance team (Igor and Jennifer, along with their daughter and senior insurance adviser Sacha, and staff Karla and Erica) with deep knowledge and experience in the critically important area of personal insurance. It also gives the former Orion clients new opportunities to explore wealth and investment advice with Profile.
2018Profile acquires onePlan Financial Planning2018Profile acquires onePlan Financial Planning
With her business growing strongly over 12 years since onePlan was founded, Louise Scifleet needed to support this growth. In exploring possible business solutions to ensure her valued clients continue to receive great advice and support Louise partnered with Profile due to similar values, capabilities and 'client first' ethos. We have been around for over 30 years and with this merger we now have offices in Parramatta, Sydney CBD, Mudgee and Dubbo.
2017Profile moves city office2017Profile moves city office
Our previous Sydney CBD office building was compulsorily acquired by the State Government for a major transport and infrastructure project, and we officially settled into our new premises on Monday 13 February. Our new premises are located in a modern office building within walking distance from the train, bus and ferry stations, and close to shopping and amenities.
2016Profile acquires HSA Financial2016Profile acquires HSA Financial
Having decided to explore other roles within the financial services industry, in late 2016 Evan Hill made a decision to close his business HSA Financial. Wanting a smooth transition for his clients and to ensure their financial affairs were well looked after, he chose Profile for our highly qualified advisers, our client-first values and efficient client support service.
2015Profile acquires Aspire Wealth2015Profile acquires Aspire Wealth
AMP's decision to close down the Genesys dealer group left Aspire Wealth principal Stephen Paull in need of a new home. After reviewing the options available, Stephen decided to join Profile – based on our privately owned and licensed structure, high client satisfaction levels, efficient processes and excellent adviser support.
2015Profile moves Parramatta office2015Profile moves Parramatta office
Having outgrown our previous headquarters at Creagh Cottage, and needing a more efficient communications infrastructure, we moved our Parramatta office to 100 George Street in April 2015. Our new premises are located in a modern office building with excellent communications infrastructure, walking distance from the train, bus and ferry stations, and close to shopping and amenities.
2015Profile appoints non-executive independent director2015Profile appoints non-executive independent director
To support Profile's continuing growth, we made a decision to add a non-executive director to our board. Peter Coleman joined Profile in 2015 as non-executive director and chairman.
2015Profile launches new direct shares service2015Profile launches new direct shares service
After extensive research and review of the market for equities services, Profile developed and launched a new direct shares solution for clients. It offers a full implementation and advice service, with online access and minimal paperwork and hassle, while our clients still make the final decisions on trades.
2013Profile acquires Capel & Associates2013Profile acquires Capel & Associates
Frustrated by the increasing load of administration and red tape required to run its own AFSL, but determined to retain independence for its clients, Capel and Associates decided to join forces with Profile Financial Services, with Principal Rick Capel joining Profile as Senior Financial Planner.
2011Profile launches new implemented portfolio solutions2011Profile launches new implemented portfolio solutions
Profile launched a new set of integrated investment solutions for clients needing a packaged investment solution. These provide asset allocation, risk management and manager selection for clients with minimal paperwork and consolidated reporting.
2011Advisory board renewal2011Advisory board renewal
Christine Bull and Andrew Fairweather completed their tenure, and Richard Crake and Stephen Robertson joined Profile's advisory board.
2010Profile hires a CEO2010Profile hires a CEO
Having decided that professional management was important to help Profile continue to grow, Profile hired Sarah Abood to the new role of CEO.
2009Profile opens a Sydney CBD office2009Profile opens a Sydney CBD office
In response to client demand, Profile established a permanent city office, initially at Level 8, 261 George St in Sydney.
2008Profile's advisory board launched2008Profile's advisory board launched
Garry and Phil made a decision to launch an advisory board, to bring an independent and fresh viewpoint to Profile's decision making, and as part of our commitment to forward thinking and continuing to find better ways to serve our clients. Our foundation independent members were Christine Bull, and Andrew Fairweather.
2003Profile acquires Anderson Burkett's financial planning business.2003Profile acquires Anderson Burkett's financial planning business.
Anderson Burkett – a chartered accountancy firm –made a decision to exit financial planning and focus on its core business of accountancy. They felt Profile offered the right combination of services and support to its clients and staff, and the transaction completed in 2003. Phillip Win, who had headed up the planning business at Anderson Burkett, joined Profile and is today a Director of Profile.
The change marked a major growth milestone for Profile and we also made a decision to update our logo – while still retaining the strong pyramid shape.
2002Profile leaves the Hillross (AMP) group2002Profile leaves the Hillross (AMP) group
A company providing financial advice to Australians must hold an appropriate licence – "Australian Financial Services Licence" or AFSL – from ASIC.
Profile was originally licensed through the Hillross group (a subsidiary of AMP).
The year 2002 saw major changes to the regulation of financial services companies in Australia and Garry decided the time had come to go out on his own. He wanted Profile to control its own destiny, including the products and services it could make available to clients.
As a result Profile obtained its own license from ASIC and left the AMP group. Profile has retained its own license ever since.
1994Frank's Smith's retirement1994Frank's Smith's retirement
Frank Smith has been a very important part of Profile's story from the very beginning. As one of Garry's mentors for many years, the two have forged a lifelong friendship as well as a great working relationship. Garry named Frank as honorary chairman at our founding, in acknowledgement of Frank's great assistance, knowledge and wisdom.
Frank started in the industry with AMP back in 1949 and was one of the first ever graduates of the CFP program, the highest designation a planner can have in Australia.
Frank retired in 1994 after 45 years in the industry. He remains very much a part of Profile, as one of our 'alumni' retired staff network, and he and wife Connie continue to come in for their annual reviews!
1986Profile is founded by Garry Ohlsen.1986Profile is founded by Garry Ohlsen.
The origins of Profile go back to 1986, when Garry Ohlsen's vision to create an organisation with an absolute focus on its clients began.
Our current name "Profile Financial Services" was settled on to reflect our prioritisation of the individual client's profile when considering their financial needs.Our logo:
The pyramid – represents stability, security, and the importance of having a strong base on which to build your plan.Our mission is:
"We partner with and empower clients who want to find a smarter way to build and secure their wealth, so they can live the life they want with confidence."
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La Vereda: Spanish Word of the Week
This week, the city and/or our building owners decided to dig up the paths on our block. They periodically do this, usually just a section or two at a time, presumably to fix a pipe or some faulty wire. But this week was unusual as it is almost our entire block. I keep crossing my … More La Vereda: Spanish Word of the Week

subset: commoncrawl


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In honour of the woodsy fir that – as of yesterday – is in our front window, I thought I'd share a bit of seasonal sentiment. You might remember it; it first appeared in my Daily Herald-Tribune column "Family Matters," way back in 2010.
The most perfect gift of all dangles from the 'Memory Tree'
As he unrolled the tissue surrounding the small ceramic ornament and held it out to me, I saw not a young man taller than I, but a tiny boy with winter hair.
The little boy with the hair that bristled in all directions had a tiny-toothed grin as he sat cross-legged beneath the Christmas tree. He looked at the gifts, touched each one, but kept returning to one small gift wrapped with bright paper and large amounts of tape. He lifted it from beneath the tree and held it gently in his hands, as if it were a small bird he was trying to protect. At least once a day, he brought it to his mother.
"Look at this one," he said. I picked it up, marvelled at the pretty wrapping and commented about its size or lack of weight.
"Be very careful," he warned. And each day, he unknowingly gave a little clue: It's breakable. It has something to do with winter. It's very beautiful.
Each day, he returned it carefully to the base of the tree, sometimes giving it a little pat goodbye. He had selected and bought this gift himself from one of those "No Parents Allowed" shops. His anticipation at the giving lit up his eyes and radiated from him in warm waves.
I'm not known to have much restraint with pretty packages labelled with my name, but his year, for this gift, I could wait. The joy on the child's face was the true gift. Had I not thought the child would burst, I'd have wished for a particularly long Christmas season.
"I wonder what it could be," I mused a few days before Christmas. "It's small. It's as light as a feather. Is it a bird?"
His blond curls bounced as he shook his head. "No, it's not a bird."
"An angel, then. A small, beautiful angel."
"No," he said. His little hands balled into fists as he bounced. His body vibrated. He could no longer suppress his knowledge. "It's a snowman! A teeny tiny snowman!"
My smile matched his. He'd have let me rip off the paper then and there had I asked. But I didn't ask. I needed to wait a few days longer and so did he. And even though I now knew what was inside, I couldn't wait to open it, to look at it reverently and with awe, to proclaim it the most perfect snowman, the most perfect gift of all.
It was the first, and truly the most perfect, gift I opened that Christmas morning. Each year, I relive the joy of that gift – the first one he selected by himself – as we decorate our tree with the flotsam and jetsam of Christmases past. This year, when he passed me the tiny snowman with the turquoise hat and the yellow scarf that still dangles from a length of fishing line, the room was filled – as it is every year – with our mutual memory.
As we emptied the boxes and unravelled the glass baubles and homemade ornaments to adorn our tree, our home was filled with memories of small hands secretly making gifts, of treasures found, of friends, and even of long-dead ancestors whose ornaments grace our tree.
And even though each year I gaze with longing at the themed trees in stores, in magazines and at the Festival of Trees, and each year, well before Christmas, I think, "Wouldn't it be nice…," in my heart, I know the best tree, the real tree, is the unique but uncoordinated "Tree of Memories" that takes centre stage in our living room.


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Chances are when you hear the phrase "period drama" you immediately think of chandeliers, ballgowns and unfailingly courteous manners. There's the Dowager Countess's deliciously timed barbs in Downton Abbey, for instance, the sunny optimism of post-war Britain in Call the Midwife, or the brooding, frilly-shirted heroes of Pride & Prejudice.
Recently, though, there's been a trend for historical dramas that focus more on grit and squalor than glitz and nostalgia. The latest is Harlots, a tale of 18th century brothel owners, starring Samantha Morton and Lesley Manville, that starts streaming tonight (March 29) on Hulu.
Here's a taster of what we have to look forward to:
Whoa. They don't hold back, do they? Here's 11 other gritty historical dramas that aim to show the past in all its blood, guts, and glory.
Moll Flanders (1996)
Long before they popped up as River Song and James Bond respectively, Alex Kingston and Daniel Craig starred in this raunchy adaptation of Daniel Defoe's 1722 novel. It tells the story of Moll, the "wickedest woman in England," whose exploits include prostitution, pickpocketing, and aiding and abetting highwaymen.
Where to watch: Amazon
Ripper Street (2012 – 2016)
The first episode of this historical crime drama opened how it meant to continue — with the mutilated corpse of a young woman — and closed with another woman being drugged, raped, and almost choked to death on camera. Not one for the faint-hearted, it was nevertheless a fan favorite thanks to its depiction of the police precinct charged with bringing order to London as the 20th century approaches.
Where to watch: More details
Black Sails (2014 – 2017)
Ostensibly a prequel to Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island, this historical adventure throws the novel's fictional scurvy knaves – including John Silver, Captain Flint and Billy Bones – in with plenty of real-life buccaneers, from Calico Jack to Charles Vane. Starring acting royalty Toby Stephens (his mom is none other than that doyenne of period dramas, Dame Maggie Smith), it offers adventures on the high seas, swashbuckling quests for treasure and gory battles to the death.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime | Google Play
Taboo (2017)
The presence of Tom Hardy is a big enough clue that social decorum is not high on a show's priorities, and sure enough, his Taboo co-star Stephen Graham called this historical thriller the "antidote to Downton Abbey." It certainly doesn't pull any punches, thrusting us straight into a grimy Georgian London where anything and anyone is for sale.
Where to watch: Amazon Video | Google Play
Deadwood (2004 – 2006)
Gritty, dirty, violent: this HBO drama about a frontier mining town is about as adult as it gets. With fantastic scripts and a stellar cast including Ian McShane and Timothy Olyphant, this award-winning show is considered one of TV's greatest.
Where to watch: Amazon | HBO Now
To Walk Invisible (2017)
The literary success of the three extraordinary Brontë sisters is an inspiring tale, but this one-off drama by Happy Valley scribe Sally Wainwright gives it a tragic twist by setting it against the descent into alcohol and drug addiction of their much-lauded — and ultimately unsuccessful — brother Branwell.
Where to watch: PBS Masterpiece
Isabel (2012 – 2014)
This critically acclaimed Spanish series tells the story of the reign of Queen Isabella I of Castile, and boy, it doesn't leave anything out. The royal court of 15th century Spain is ruled by greed, lust, lies, and, above all, an insatiable hunger for power, and filled with people every bit as ruthless as anyone in The Borgias.
Where to watch: Dramafever
Tipping the Velvet (2002)
This controversial show was adapted by War & Peace screenwriter Andrew Davies, who famously dubbed it "Pride and Prejudice with dirty bits." It starred Rachael Stirling as Nan, an 18-year-old girl who falls in love with male impersonator Kitty (Keeley Hawes) and follows her to the sprawling metropolis of London. Oh, and that chap at the start of this clip looks darned familiar too…
Where to watch: Google Play
Rome (2005 – 2007)
If I, Claudius exposed its brutal underbelly, then Rome shows ancient politics in all its guts and gore. The ensemble drama tells the story of both ordinary plebeian soldiers (Kevin McKidd and Ray Stevenson) as well as noblemen such as Mark Antony (James Purefoy), during the time of the Roman Empire. But don't expect Upstairs, Downstairs. It may be a period piece, but with its depictions of incest, torture, war and suicide, it has more of a gritty Game of Thrones vibe than that of a drawing room drama.
Where to watch: Google Play | Amazon
Versailles (2015)
There was plenty of controversy on the other side of the pond when this steamy drama debuted, thanks in part to its graphic sex scenes. Chronicling the life of the Sun King Louis XIV as he moves his court from Paris to the new palace at Versailles, it made The Tudors look positively puritan.
Where to watch: OvationRead More


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New research released March 12 provides guidance for physicians who treat patients with lung cancer. Three authors will present their findings during the plenary session Thursday, March 14, at the 2019 Multidisciplinary Thoracic Cancers Symposium, held March 14-16 at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront.
Following are summaries of each study:
Local consolidative therapy linked to improved overall survival for oligometastatic NSCLC (Abstract 1)
This summary includes updated data not in the abstract.
A new analysis of nearly 200 patients treated with local consolidative therapy (LCT) for oligometastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) finds that the intensive treatment approach is associated with improved overall survival. LCT, consisting of radiation therapy or surgery, extended median survival by six months for patients diagnosed with three or fewer metastases outside of the lungs.
"Though not all people with stage IV NSCLC are the same, there are treatment options for those with limited metastatic disease," said Erin Corsini, MD, presenting author of the study and a clinical research fellow the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. "Specifically, in select populations of patients with oligometastatic NSCLC, local consolidative therapy to all sites of disease with surgery, radiation therapy or a combination of the two appears to show promise in prolonging overall survival. The patients who seem to gain the most benefit are those with more favorable disease characteristics, such as adenocarcinoma, early intrathoracic stage and absence of bone metastases."
For the study, researchers analyzed records of 194 patients treated for stage IV NSCLC at MD Anderson between 2000 and 2017. Eligible patients included those diagnosed with one to three synchronous metastatic tumors, with intrathoracic nodal disease counted as one site; most patients (70%) had two to three distant metastases. Nearly all patients (90%) received systemic therapy in addition to LCT.
Comprehensive LCT to all disease sites (i.e., the primary tumor and all distant metastases) was associated with improved overall survival. At a median follow-up of 52 months, the median overall survival was 29 months for patients who received LCT to all sites, compared to 23 months for patients who did not (p=0.03). The relationship held on multivariable analysis controlling for patient and disease characteristics (p=0.03).
LCT to the primary tumor was associated with improved control of local and regional recurrences. The rate of locoregional progression was 21 percent for patients who received LCT to the primary tumor, compared to 43 percent for patients who did not (p<0.01). LCT to the primary tumor also trended toward an association with improved overall survival (p=0.08), although this was not the case with LCT to distant metastases (p=0.21).
"Several recent clinical trials have shown that local consolidative therapy could provide a tangible survival benefit, and our results from evaluating a relatively large group of patients are not only consistent with, but arguably bolster, the previously reported findings," said Dr. Corsini. "Taken together, these studies make a strong case for local consolidative therapy in patients with oligometastatic NSCLC."
"As the evidence accumulates and we learn that there are options for patients with oligometastatic disease, it is important that providers, patients and families discuss these possibilities and how they align with their goals and priorities for treatment."
Structured exposure to NSCLC patient guidelines fosters smoking cessation, biomarker testing (Abstract 3)
A new clinical trial finds that exposing patients to tailored versions of nationally-recognized treatment guidelines for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) can help drive smoking cessation, testing for potential biomarkers and, for early-stage disease, more patient-centered use of chemotherapy following surgery. Findings demonstrate how evidence-based decision and communication aids can improve cancer care.
"The process of making treatment decisions can be extremely stressful for lung cancer patients, as treatment options are nuanced and may change significantly over the course of their staging workup," said Susan Wu, MD, first author of the study and a radiation oncology resident at the University of California, San Francisco. "Educational tools can guide patients through the decision-making process and help them to synthesize the large amount of information available."
Patients in the trial used an interactive web-based tool that presented treatment options tailored to their clinical characteristics, such as tumor stage and margin status following surgery. Options were based on National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines and included information about treatment sequencing as well as a timeline to help patients visualize the treatment trajectory. All 76 patients were introduced to the tool by a trained coordinator, who also used the tool to facilitate discussion during their consultation with an oncologist. A separate cohort of 159 patients seen at the same institution before the tool was available was used as a comparison group.
Structured exposure to guidelines was associated with several positive outcomes, including increased smoking cessation counseling/intervention among active smokers (80% vs. 4%, p<0.001) and increased molecular testing for EGFR and ALK mutations prior to systemic therapy among patients with metastatic disease (96% vs. 68%, p=0.01). Use of the tool was also correlated with decreased use of chemotherapy following surgery for stage IB-IIB NSCLC (0% vs. 50%, p=0.02), particularly among patients with negative margins following resection.
"We can empower patients to make decisions that align with their priorities and goals for treatment with evidence-based tools. For example, data from patients with breast cancer suggests that those who may derive limited benefit from adjuvant therapy are more likely to forego it. We similarly found that patients with completely resected early-stage NSCLC had a tendency not to pursue additional chemotherapy," said Dr. Wu.
Exposure to the guideline tool did not impact some outcomes, including the frequency of pathologic mediastinal staging performed prior to surgery (p=0.70) or nonsurgical treatment (p=0.55) in patients with stage III disease, nor did it influence the use of upfront chemoradiation therapy in stage III patients who were ineligible for surgery (p=0.55).
"Our goal was to help patients feel more comfortable making treatment decisions and become more active participants in the decision-making process," said Dr. Wu. "While implementing a decision support tool does require substantial resources, such as the time and effort to develop the tool and introduce it to patients, these tools can help empower our patients, and in some cases meaningfully impact their care."
Declining number of physicians use prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) for extensive-stage SCLC (Abstract 5)
This summary includes updated data not in the abstract.
A new survey of radiation oncologists points to a sharp decline in the use of prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) for patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC), indicating a rapid change in standard practice for the disease following publication of a major clinical trial in 2017.
"Small cell lung cancer has a tendency to spread past the lungs to the brain, and brain metastases substantially diminish a patient's quality of life. PCI is preventative radiation therapy given after first-line treatment to eliminate cancerous cells before they become symptomatic metastases," said Olsi Gjyshi, MD, PhD, first author of the study and a radiation oncology resident at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
"Radiation oncologists largely adopted PCI for ES-SCLC following the 2007 publication of a randomized EORTC trial that linked its use to extended overall survival (Slotman et al., NEJM). However, with the recent publication of a Japanese trial showing no survival benefit from PCI compared to MRI surveillance (Takahashi et al., Lancet Oncology), it is important to come to a consensus on how best to treat these patients. Our survey indicates that most providers no longer routinely use PCI for patients with extensive-stage disease that responds to chemotherapy."
To determine the extent of practice changes, researchers surveyed attending radiation oncologists at academic cancer centers across the United States (24% survey response rate). Anonymous email surveys were collected in September 2018, more than a year after the Takahashi et al trial was published, and the same year National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines were updated to reflect its findings.
All 49 radiation oncologists who specialize in treating thoracic cancers were aware of the Takashashi et al trial, and two-thirds (67%) had altered their practice in response to its findings. Specifically, fewer than half of those who offered PCI for ES-SCLC prior to 2017 continued to do so after it was published (78% vs. 38%, p<0.001).
Researchers confirmed the trend of shifting away from PCI in a subsequent nationwide survey of radiation oncologists (N=431). The trend was consistent across private practices and academic centers. One-fourth of these physicians reported a decline in PCI referrals by medical oncology for patients with extensive-stage SCLC, and 12 percent also reported fewer referrals for limited-stage SCLC.
"With extensive-stage disease, PCI may best be reserved for patients who are likely to benefit from it, such as those with excellent performance status, younger age (<70 years) and excellent cognitive functions at baseline," said Dr. Gjyshi. "Caution should be used in extrapolating the Takahashi et al. data to patients with limited-stage disease, and further trials may be necessary to address this question."
"Declining PCI use could impact enrollment in future clinical trials, however, so careful consideration should be given to future studies and trials that plan to investigate the role of PCI in this patient population."Back To Top
New lung cancer studies feature latest treatment advances . Appl Rad Oncol.


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What are the chances Andrew Friedman completes a trade in the next week?
Willy Aybar is currently on a rehab assignment in Vero Beach and he is getting playing time at 2B, suggesting the Rays are preparing Aybar to be a utility-player on the big club when he comes off the DL next week. The problem is, only 2 players on the Rays' bench have minor league options, Shawn Riggans and Ben Zobrist. Aybar has not seen any time at shortstop on his rehab assignment (or catcher) so both of those players jobs are safe. That leaves one of Jonny Gomes, Eric Hinske and Gabe Gross without a chair when the music stops. Gomes figures to stay as the right-handed DH. So it seems that World B. Friedman will try and move either Hinske or Gross. Gross is the best defensive right fielder, so Hinske's ride with the Rays may be a short one. The question then becomes can the Rays find a trade partner? There have been a slew of players with similar resumes placed on waivers this season, which suggests that other teams are willing to wait for Hinske to be DFA'd...18%
What are the chances we see Reid Brignac in a Rays uniform before the end of the year?
Reid Brignac's bat has come alive in May where he is hitting .362/.352/.638 in 69 at bats. But notice that the OBP is less than his batting average. That is because he has zero walks in May. Still, Baseball America calls him "one of the better defensive shortstops in the IL". He is only 22, but if the Rays have any thoughts of giving Brignac the shortstop job in '09, they may want to give him a cup-of-coffee in September. Remember, Brignac's situation is different from Evan Longoria. In September of last year, Longoria had just made his AAA debut and was still only about 14 months removed from being drafted. Brignac will have been in AAA all year and this marks his 4th full season as a pro…88%
Pedro Alvarez or Tim Beckham or Buster Posey?
Recent mock drafts from Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo, have Beckham going to the Rays with the top pick, while John Sickels lists Posey as the top player available. To us, catchers are like pitchers. You can never have too many, and the Rays have too few. On the other hand, catchers are as big a gamble as pitchers in the draft, so buyer-beware. Our gut tells us that the choice is Alvarez or Beckham. We drool everytime we read a report on Beckham, but teams like the Rays (close to contention) tend to prefer college players that can join the parent club sooner, rather than later. We don't see signability as an issue as the Rays will worry about that when then time comes. But where would Alvarez play? Obviously not third base as long as Dirtbag is around. Is it a coincidence that the Rays gave Carlos Pena a deal that expires at the end of the
'09'10 season, just when Alvarez figures to be ready for the show? We don't believe in coincidences…PEDRO ALVAREZ
Josh Beckett/Daisuke Matsuzaka or James Shields/Scott Kazmir?
This all depends on your point of view. Beckett is the premiere post-season pitcher of our generation and Dice-K is starting to earn some of that Y600 million. The Red Sox would choose their own because they represent a better chance at winning the world series this year. But that is not necessarily the goal of the Rays who are trying to build a foundation capable of sustained sucess within a realistic budget. For the Rays…Kid K and James the Greater (but ask us again in October if the Rays are in the Series)
8 starts for David Price in Vero Beach:
King David made his pro debut last night nearly a year after being drafted by the Rays with the top pick. He worked 5 scoreless innings, striking out 4 and walking 1. After some minor arm problems this spring, Price was on a strict pitch-count in his debut. We can't see Price working more than 5 innings in any of his first 4 starts. After that, the Rays will begin to stretch him out a bit. Barring any further setbacks, Price figures to have about 18-19 starts left in '08 and no doubt the Rays would like to get Price to Montgomery before the end of the year. It will be close, but it will probably be more like 10 starts in Vero Beach before a promotion…OVER
6 more starts in the field this season for Jonny Gomes:
This is a tough one. After Gomes' "Keystone Kops" routine in left field on Wednesday afternoon, we are fairly certain that Papa Joe Maddon was tempted to tell Gomes to go ahead and put his mitt on eBay. But if the Rays do trade/DFA Eric Hinske or Gabe Gross in the next week, Gomes may have to get the occasionaly start. There are about 19 weeks left in the regular season. We can see Gomes getting 8-10 more starts, but we will have our eyes covered in every one…OVER
2 All-Stars for the Rays:
Couldn't give us 1.5? OK. James Shields, Scott Kazmir, Troy Percival, Carl Crawford, BJ Upton and Dioner Navarro all have very legit shots to be named to the all-star team. Only once in the history of the franchise has more than one Rays player been on an all-star squad and that was because Jose Canseco had to be replaced as an injured player. 5 players with a legit shot. Kazmir's chances are hurt because he missed the first month. Shields needs a 4 or 5 win June to get serious consideration. Percy seems like a nice feel-good story on the feel-good team. Navi is hitting his weight, which usually is not a good thing, but in his case that is a nice treat. We would say Percy and Navi are in as reserves. But will Terry Francona give three Rays a spot? We can't say "2"? Damn. If it was a manager in another division or Joe Torre (who always loaded his squads with 9 Yankees) we would be skeptical, but Francona has shown a level of respect for the Rays. Look for either CC or Bossman Jr to join Navi and Percy…OVER
2 Wins for the Rays in this series against the O's:
In other words, we have to choose between a sweep or losing the series?!? At 24-22 the Orioles may actually be a bigger surprise this season than the Rays. Most had the O's as the worst team in baseball before the season started. Now they are in 3rd place in the AL East and 2.5 games off the Wild Card pace. They are only 10-15 on the road and are coming off 2 straight losses in Yankee Stadium after winning 5 of 6. Tonight's starter, Jeremy Guthrie is only 2-4 but he is sporting a 3.86 ERA. He has been very consistent this year, something that cannot be said of Matt Garza. Tomorrow, is our old friend Steve Trachsel, the human rain delay, and his 6.75 ERA. It kills us to say this, but that should be an easy win for Edwin Jackson. Finally on Sunday we get a battle of Aces in James Shields and the 5-1 Daniel Cabrera. After his last start we fully expect a solid bounce-back performance from James the Greater. But can the Rays sweep? Tonight is the key if the Garza Complex can get the series off on the right foot, look for the O's to begin their slide back into loserdome, while the Rays open up a little space in the Wild Card race…OVER


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Substitute teaching in the Chicago schools can be hazardous to your health; when you walk into a classroom you can almost see the kids' eyes light up, as if to say "Oh goody, a sub! We get to raise hell today." And raise hell they usually do, because they know there's really nothing you can do to stop them -- you don't give them their grades, you don't know their parents, heaven knows that much as you might like to sometimes you can't slap 'em upside the head, and you can hardly send them to the office because the last thing the principal wants is to got stuck with the problem; you're left with various tactical maneuvers such as bribery, cajolery, and beating on your desk with a large book while shouting at the top of your lungs for quiet.
Subs know all that, and they know that some schools are worse than others; they do their best to avoid the real snake pits, and they learn to pick up subtle clues as to what kind of school they're heading for when the morning call comes.
I should have been more wary the morning the sub center asked if I wanted to go to Courtenay School for the day; because it was outside my assigned district, I had the option to refuse, but I looked it up and it wasn't far away. I needed the work, so I thought "What the hell" and said "Sure, I'll go." "You will?" the woman at the sub center said, and her voice should have set my alarm bells ringing; I could almost hear her turning to her coworkers and saying "Hey girls, I've got a nut case here says he'll go to Courtenay."
Walking from the bus, I took a look at the school: it was small, very small, and it didn't look like a school at all, but maybe a six-flat built in the 50s. The sign over the door said "Courtenay Special Education Facility" and my alarm bells finally rang -- this was not a run-of-the-mill school, but something special. It turned out to be very special.
Some kids were milling around in the halls as I signed in at the office, and when I saw them I knew: Courtenay was a special-education center, and the kids were those with serious problems. Some were crying, some walked funny; one little girl was oblivious to the snot running from her nose. I was not at all sure I could handle this; for I've had eighth grades that were junior auxiliaries for the local street gang, I've had a kindergarten that their regular teacher slyly described as "frisky" and a fifth grade that, 15 minutes before dismissal time, started pounding their desks and chanting in unison "We wanna go home, we wanna go home," and I've had BD (behavior disorder) kids, a euphemism for violent and unpredictable, but all those kids were what we think of as "normal" in appearance. These little guys weren't.
I picked them up in the lunchroom, where they looked at me curiously, took them, in fairly good order, up to my classroom on the third floor, sat them down, and looked them over.
There was Judy (I've changed all the names), a deathly pale white girl with what I took to be an Appalachian angularity to her features; I thought she might have a West Virginia accent, but I never found out because Judy couldn't talk. She sat at her desk and stared at me out of big, dark-shadowed eyes. She followed the action all day and never said a word.
There was San, a cute and sassy little girl born in Hong Kong, who talked haltingly but intelligibly, and her friend May, who was born in Cambodia and had a back twisted up so she needed help going up and down stairs.
There was Robert, who seemed to hunch himself into a ball and sit at his desk ignoring everything, and Ramon, who must have been three years older and 50 pounds heavier than the girls; he offered to help me figure out where the proper books and papers were and told me who went where when -- an important thing to know because kids periodically came and went for therapy and special classes in speech or body movement or whatever. Ramon's buddy Felipe, for instance, was gone most of the morning swimming -- I was glad because the two seemed an explosive combination.
There were others: Lucy, with huge thick glasses that still didn't allow her to see the blackboard and who seemed bored most of the time; and Ricky, a slim, handsome black kid older than the others and seemingly out of place there; and a little Hispanic girl who came in and promptly went to sleep. Most of them seemed eight or nine years old.
And then there was Kathy. Kathy was bulky and red-faced, and her lower lip drooped. She looked terrified, and when I walked toward her front-row desk her hands started trembling uncontrollably, her pencil falling to the floor. Then she started crying; she tried to muffle the sobs but failed and sat looking at me out of teary eyes -- the picture of abject fear. "She does that all the time," Ramon said to me. "She'll stop pretty soon." I said "It's OK, Kathy, no one's going to hurt you," and walked to the other side of the room. She subsided. I sighed with relief: now all I had to do was figure out what to have them do.
Normally, the regular teacher's lesson plan book tells a sub pretty much what ground to cover -- or try to cover. In this case, the schedule was necessarily vague; obviously, I wasn't going to be spending a lot of time on long division or pop quizzes in science. The plan had different activities for levels one, two, and three, and with help from Ramon and Ricky, two of the level ones, I figured out who was on what ability level. While they intently traced letters on the mimeo sheets I gave to everyone, Ramon briefed me on who could talk and who had trouble hearing; none of them could read much with the exception of Ricky, and I busied myself finding a book with some work advanced enough to suit him. In a "normal" class, it occurred to me, a kid like Ricky, placed among younger and less able kids, would mean nothing but problems; Ricky was quiet and soft-spoken and polite. I could have hugged him.
If their regular teachers had been there, the three classrooms on the third floor would have done some switching around at various points in the day, so that all the kids on level one in a given subject would be in one room, those on level two in a second, and the level threes in the third. The flu, however, had put two of the three regular teachers out, and the third teacher decided that to avoid too much confusion we would each keep our same basic group all day. Which meant that when I began some elementary letter recognition exercises with most of the kids, Ricky, who was the only level one in the room at that point, had to pretty much fend for himself. I found him a story he could read with some questions to answer, and he sat quietly in the back of the room at a table. While the other kids watched me and blurted out the answers when they had them, I didn't hear a peep from Ricky. This, I thought, amazed, would never happen in a "normal" classroom, nor would most of what was going on. The chemistry of most classrooms is such that the kids, particularly when they have a sub at their mercy, compete to see who can best prevent anyone from learning anything; if some weirdo insists that she (it's usually a she) wants to learn something, the others pick on her. Learning is not difficult for most of them, and they spurn it. My kids, and by mid-morning I was already thinking of them as my kids, went at it gravely, intently, assiduously; they had to focus all their attention on the letter they were trying to form or the picture they were trying to color, and they had none left over for high jinks. They knew perfectly well that learning was harder for them than for other kids, and they valued it that much more for its being hard. And they looked out for each other. Whenever Kathy started shaking and burst into tears for no apparent reason, Ramon and May, who sat near her, told her soothingly, "It's all right, Kathy, you don't have to cry," and touched her on the shoulder. No one mocked her, no one teased her -- this was just something that Kathy did sometimes, she couldn't help it and it was all right. I noticed that by the end of the morning, when I made a little joke, Kathy smiled -- timidly, but she smiled.
I got a 20-minute break at lunch, and though I'd grown used to my kids I was still glad I didn't have to eat lunch with a roomful of children with various physical and mental disabilities; the tasteless old joke about the kid with the ice cream cone plastered to his forehead came to mind. I went into the teachers' lounge for a cigarette; two women, apparently bus drivers, were laughing and talking. They were half-fancifully discussing the prospect of quitting their jobs and going on welfare.
"But you gotta have a kid," one said. "They won't let you on the welfare if you ain't got an ankle biter."
"Where am I gonna get a kid?" the other scoffed. "I sure as hell don't want no kid of my own, messin' up the place. Maybe I could borrow one."
"Go down to the projects, girl. You look around in the trash cans. You'll find you a baby. People put 'em in the trash -- perfectly good babies. But your caseworker gonna wonder how you got this little rug rat crawlin' around and she never noticed you was pregnant." They both laughed boisterously and went back to drawing on their cigarettes. Then the younger one looked up and said musingly, "At the projects, huh? Perfectly good babies."
We began the afternoon by playing alphabet bingo, a game the kids enjoyed; it's designed to help them recognize letters more easily. Kathy was thrilled when she got a bingo, filling her whole card, while Ramon moaned that he still had five black spaces. In the second game, Kathy was on the verge of winning again when a speech therapy teacher came in and she had to leave. She started crying again, great racking uncontrollable sobs. The other kids gathered around -- they told her it was all right, she won the game. Ricky, normally a grave child, took Kathy's hand and smiled at her. The speech teacher and I watched; the kids did a better job with each other than we could hope to do.
Near the end of the afternoon all the boys were taken out for music; I was supposed to "teach" music to the girls, and the lone regular teacher on the floor handed me a stack of mimeographed copies of the words to "I Am Woman." Lucy had been pretty quiet behind her enormous thick glasses, but when I asked if anyone knew the words to the song, she jabbed her hand into the air: "I do! I do!" I was glad of that; I can't sing a lick, and I was not about to try under those circumstances, but we could at least learn the words. We started in, a few words at a time, me reading in a singsong, the girls -- those who were able -- reciting them back. We found a rhythm -- I read "I am invincible," they fed it back, and we all came down hard together, stomping our feet on "I am woman." These girls may not be future physicists at the University of Chicago, but they knew what the song is about, and there was a palpable sense of pride, especially in Lucy, who was leading the responses, her glasses bouncing on her nose as her head bobbed excitedly, and red-eyed Kathy, who started off mumbling through trembling lips but ended up belting out the words and almost shouting "I am woman" as she stamped her feet.
The boys, alas, returned; with only 15 minutes to go to closing time I decided to play another game of alphabet bingo rather than introduce something new. Kathy got almost no letters this time, and her lower lip began trembling again. San leaned over and patted her shoulder, and Kathy broke into unbearable crying. I told everyone to get their coats, and I bent down beside the red-faced girl. "It's all right, Kathy, there's no reason for you to cry, it's time to go home now." I patted her hand; she turned her chubby hand over, grasped mine, then suddenly leaned down and kissed it, sloppily. Then she lurched out of her seat and walked to the coatroom.
That happened one day last winter. This year I have a "real" job, and I don't much miss subbing; I can live quite happily without the third-grader who spit on and punched everyone smaller than him, and tried to punch me in the balls when I restrained him; I can live without the bored and lazy eighth-graders who threw things at me if I didn't stare at them continuously; I can even live without the Head Start kids and the clay animals we made -- I might miss that if there had been fewer than 30 of them at a time. But some days I think about alphabet bingo and "I Am Woman" and it seems that maybe I miss those kids, and the only drawback to teaching them is that they steal your damn heart with one lousy little smile.
Art accompanying story in printed newspaper (not available in this archive): illustration/John Figler.


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Goal Setting: Focus on These 7 Areas In Your Lifeadmin
Make sure your goals are specific so you can tell whether you will be able to achieve them and how long this will take. By being specific about your goals you can then put a plan in place to achieve them. Additionally, don't put down too many goals as you will not be able to achieve them all and will eventually get despondent. Whatever your goals are, make sure you are working towards one outcome so you know your goals are aligning and pushing you in the right direction.
When you live a healthy lifestyle you feel good about yourself and are up to facing more challenges. Set goals to exercise
more and get enough rest so you have more energy. Ensure the goals are right for you and they are achievable – it is all about feeling good throughout the year. Be part of the Annique Lifestyle Philosophy that encourages lifelong eating choices that focus on healthy food; reprogramming the body to digest stored fat and convert it into energy; and supplementing the body with formulations to support weightloss. Why not start a Slimming Club and encourage your Consultants and Customers to join!
Being spiritual means you have a need to be part of something greater than yourself; you want to make a change in the world or have an effect on someone's life. Setting spiritual goals will differ from person to person. Maybe you want to meditate more or get out into nature, or perhaps you want to visit a church, meeting or service. Set goals that feed your soul.
Personal development is all about looking within yourself and seeing how you can grow. Are you learning on an intellectual level – seeking out information – and on an emotional level – learning how to manage your emotions and feelings? Set goals to attend Annique training courses, ATMs, Première and team meetings.
A romantic relationship is one of the most important relationships you will have, so it is important to set goals to keep that flame alive. Ask yourself what type of partner you want to be and what type of life you want to live with your better half. You can sit down and put goals together with your partner on how to improve the relationship and what you want to achieve together.
Think about what you would like to achieve financially. Being an Annique Consultant is such a unique business opportunity as it enables you to earn additional income, minimise or avoid debt and will enable you to become financially independent and successful. Having financial stability will give you a sense of security and will enable you to set out your goals for the year. Clearly set out what you want to achieve and be realistic about whether this can be done in the long or short term.
You will most likely set yourself the most goals under this category as it deals with your professional rather than your personal life. Look at what positions you would like to fill; what skills you would like to learn and what types of projects you would enjoy working on. Set goals of how many products you would like to sell and how many Consultants you need to recruit. Help your first and second Generation Consultants to introduce and develop successful Consultants, and build leaders in your team. Leadership development is critical in the success of your business. Set goals for how many managers you want in your team and the time frame you need to develop them.
Being part of the Annique team gives you the opportunity to have a good work/life balance, which is essential for a stress free life. By working from home, you are able to set your own hours so you can create more time for leisure activities such as spending time with your family. Evaluate how you spend your non-working hours and set goals that will make your leisure time more fulfilling.
Tips for setting long and short-term goals
• Your goals must be specific
• You must be able to measure the outcome of your goals
• Don't be negative
• Keep your goals realistic
• Is your goal achievable within your time frame?
• There must be an action tied to each goal
• Be flexible about your goals


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Cacatua pastinator pastinator
Muir's Corella, Western Corella (Lake Muir subspecies).
Declared Pest - s22(2)
Declared pests must satisfy any applicable import requirements when imported, and may be subject to an import permit if they are potential carriers of high-risk organisms. They may also be subject to control and keeping requirements once within Western Australia.
C1 - Exclusion / Exempt
Organisms which should be excluded from part or all of Western Australia.
- Areas of the state where not naturally occurring (excluding listed C3 areas).
C3 - Management / Exempt
Organisms that should have some form of management applied that will alleviate the harmful impact of the organism, reduce the numbers or distribution of the organism or prevent or contain the spread of the organism.
- Applicable area(s):
- Boyup Brook (S),
- Cranbrook (S),
- Manjimup (S).


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Is the no-tip movement at restaurants reaching, well, a tipping point?
In recent years, such renowned restaurants as Thomas Keller's Per Se in New York and French Laundry in Yountville, Calif., Alice Waters' Chez Panisse in Berkeley, Calif., and Grant Achatz's Alinea in Chicago have put no-tip policies in place. So did the recently closed Linkery restaurant in San Diego.
Perhaps the policies at these establishments shouldn't come as a surprise, since restaurant patrons are increasingly saying they don't like to play the tipping game. A solid majority of Americans — 75% — say they tip less than the customary 20% when dining out, according to a new survey by vouchercloud.net, which researches consumer spending habits. Additionally, the website reports that 46% of Americans say they are tipping less in general than they did five years ago.
Scott Rosenberg, owner of Sushi Yasuda, another no-tip restaurant in New York, believes that diners are simply tired of the meal-ending ritual of "grading" a server and then doing the math based on that judgment. "The meal should be there for you to enjoy without doing this calculus," says Scott Rosenberg.
To be clear, such restaurants are still paying their waiters — and the customers are still paying for the service as part of the overall bill. When Scott Rosenberg did away with tipping some months back, he raised menu prices by 15% to cover costs.
But there's a reason beyond customer preference that restaurants are going no-tip. At a time when dining establishments have come under fire for issues relating to how tip money is split among employees — in many eateries, gratuities are shared with support staff or even managers — there's some thought that a no-tip policy may be the quickest way to avoid headaches and potential legal complications. For example, at Starbucks
In that light, eliminating the whole issue of gratuities looks like "a win for the restaurants," says management and strategy consultant Abhay Padgaonkar.
But tipping has its defenders. Without such a reliable system of accountability, high-level service could be compromised, says Edward P. Foy, Jr., owner of The Chateau on the Lake, an American-European upscale restaurant in Bolton Landing, N.Y.
Even some servers point out that accountability can sometimes work to their advantage: With tips, there's the potential to make more money than might be possible under a flat-wage system. "Getting rid of tipping would be horrible," says Jenn Harris, a waitress in Solana Beach, Calif.
There's also the issue that old habits are hard to break. While tipping is not necessarily standard in other parts of the world — most notably, some Asian and European countries — it's long been part of the American dining system. "Even if you changed the server's mentality toward how they are compensated, it is almost impossible to rewire the American customer who thinks they have to leave 'something' at the end of the meal," says Carolyn Richmond, a New York-based attorney with Fox Rothschild who specializes in the hospitality industry.
That's indeed what Scott Rosenberg of Sushi Yasuda discovered after establishing the restaurant's no-tip policy. Patrons were still leaving money on the table, resulting in instances of waiters having to track them down outside the restaurant to return the cash. But Rosenberg says that customers have gotten more accustomed to the policy over time and are better appreciating the point.
"It just seems like a more transparent way of operating a restaurant," Rosenberg says.
Also see:


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Use this form to contact me here through my website with any questions, comments, suggestions that you may have. I am happy to hear from you and will do my best to get back to you as quickly as possible.
Have a great day!
Most frequent questions and answers
I ask that you allow 2 weeks for delivery of the photography. You will receive an email. And in that email will be a link to download the files from my server, onto your computer or device.
Please download as soon as possible. The link will be removed within 30 days of the date it was sent.
Typically, I send the background photo (that is taken of you at the end of the show, with your trophies, in whatever pose you wish) within 2-3 days.
I ask that you allow 4-6 weeks for delivery of the DVD to you in the mail.
Yes, I certainly do! You are invited to take a look at the fitness photography packages.
You are also not limited to fitness at all. I can accommodate just about any photo idea you have. Just let me know and I can help with ideas and concepts.
Definitely! You can check out the samples I have that are specifically taking advantage of and designed for Instagram's square format and is up to 1 minute long.
The shoot and editing package starts at $75. Take a look at the details!


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Female Reproductive System
Female Urinary Tract
Vaginal agenesis is a birth defect that affects few women (1 out of 5,000). But unless it is fixed, it can make sex and having a baby impossible. It occurs when the vagina does not develop fully. Some girls may have a shorter vagina, a remnant of one, or lack one altogether. It is not uncommon to have other issues in the reproductive tract, such as an absent or small uterus.
Also, 30 out of 100 girls with vaginal agenesis will have kidney abnormalities. The most common is missing 1 kidney or the dislocation of 1 or both organs. The 2 kidneys may also be joined, forming a horseshoe-like shape. About 12 out of 100 females also have atypical skeletons, and 2 of 3 in this group have problems with the spine, ribs or limbs.


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NEW YORK (MarketWatch) -- Ken Rogoff, the former International Monetary Fund economist who has predicted a major U.S. bank failure in the coming months, isn't talking about what specifically could cause such a failure. Maybe that's because his panic attack is a big part of it.
Rogoff is correct when he says U.S. banks are at risk, as he did in a recent talk in Singapore.
Many U.S. banks are at risk. Market strategist Barry Ritholtz pointed out Monday that Washington Mutual Inc.
On the brokerage side, Weiss noted that the brokerage arms of Morgan Stanley
The truth is, the collapse of Bear Stearns Cos. wasn't about capital, it was about liquidity and, more importantly, confidence.
When Rogoff claims that the banking system is "not just going to see midsized banks go under in the next few months; we're going to see a whopper, we're going to see a big one, one of the big investment banks or big banks," how much confidence has he pumped into the market?
The reality in the U.S. banking market is, as Ladenburg Thalmann analyst Dick Bove noted Tuesday, that "equity is up, deposits are up; margins are up; loans are up; noninterest income problems are being resolved; and noninterest expenses are coming under control."
Bove and Rogoff agree that consolidation will be a part of the industry's recovery. The difference it seems is how banks will be sold. Rogoff seems to think failed banks' assets will be sold off. Bove envisions something more orderly.
Recent evidence is on Bove's side.
UnionBank Corp.
agreed Monday to sell itself at a 21% premium to Mitsubishi UFJ
The UBC deal is evidence that dire predictions about the banking industry just might be the industry's biggest problem.
-- David Weidner


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The TV show that every '90s child played love 'em and leave 'em with, Captain Planet and the Planeteers, will soon be taking it's environmental message to theaters near you, if Hollywood has anything to say about it. But can Captain Planet really cut it on the big screen?
Probably not.
The original series followed the story of five teens from around the world who were given special powers (and awesome rings!) that could control the elements by Gaia (a.k.a. the spirit of the Earth) to protect the planet from polluters. Yeah, that's right. I said polluters. And when their powers aren't enough, they join together and summon Captain Planet, a blue-skinned superhero with killer green hair.
First reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Sony is in the final negotiations to pick up the rights to the series and an adaption will be produced by Mark Gordan, Don Murphy and Susan Montford (who is also currently working on Vampire Academy: Blood Sisters.) Another live-action movie was in the works with Cartoon Network in the late 2000s, but the idea never took root.
And while Going Green is all the rage right now, there's something inherently uninteresting about a Captain Planet movie. The kids who grew up with the weakened-by-garbage superhero might attend a screening, but for today's cartoon kiddies there's already evil-fighting figures to capture their attention. The idea of Captain Planet and his Planeteers going head-to-head with the Man of Steel or The Avengers seems kind of out there. What's he going to do, throw a recycling bin at them?
There are two things that might save Captain Planet from a disastrous fate:
One, the villains were always kind of neat. With names like Dr. Blight, Looten Plunder and Verminous Skumm, they always seemed to capture the attention of young viewers. And the roles initially attracted big name stars to play the baddies, like Meg Ryan and Sting. Bring some more recent high-profile celebs into the mix for the live-action and people might just come to check it out.
Two, make it gritty. I'm not saying add blood and guts to the mix, but don't make it a G-rated two hours of planetary moral lessons either. Bring in adult actors that understand how to make a superhero that's depressing and lovably goofy while warning us of the dangers that are global warming all at the same time.
The true test for Captain Planet and its future success will come as more details about the film are released. And as for it's ability to cut it on the big screen? Only time will tell.