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For chrissakes, there was that voice again. Hyper. Taunting. Borderline crazed.
"C'mon, All-American, what's your problem? You're not finding this as easy as you thought, are you?"
Didn't this guy ever shut up? The 2003 Capital One Bowl was barely under way, and already Dontarrious Thomas was going after Heisman finalist Larry Johnson with a verbal crowbar. Ever see a mug shot of rage? Say "Cheese," Dontarrious. During warmups, the Auburn linebacker was so geeked that he resembled a snarling rottweiler tethered to a stake. Then coaches removed the choke chain and sicced him on the Penn State running back.
And no, Johnson wasn't finding this easy at all. He'd heard trash-talk before, but this was scary different. This smack had anger as an attached file. It didn't matter that Johnson was the ninth college player ever to rush for more than 2,000 yards in a season. Everywhere he went, that voice was waiting for him. At the bottom of a pile. Across the line of scrimmage. On the way back to the huddle.
"Hey, man, why ain't you getting the ball that much? Your team don't have confidence in you?"
Again. "Why y'all running these stupid plays?"
And again. "Hey, man, you can't outrun me. You're too slow."
On and on it went, until finally Johnson bit.
"Wait 'til next play," he snapped. "Y'all are soft."
"How we soft, man?" Thomas shot back, his smirk almost audible. "You only got, like, 25 yards."
And that was that. Stick a shrimp fork in Johnson; Thomas had officially messed with his mind. The All-America finished with 72 yards on the wrong end of a 13-9 score. It got so bad that sober Penn State tried to get cute with a trick pass play. After Thomas blew it up with ease, he turned to a Nittany Lions assistant and chirped, "You can't run that play. I got a 3.5 GPA. I'm not a dumb-ass."
Neither is his tag-team partner, fellow linebacker Karlos Dansby, a guy regarded around the program as something of a football savant. Show him a coverage or technique just once, and he gets it. "A football common-sense guy," says Tigers coach Tommy Tuberville. Like Thomas, Dansby is a former high school wideout converted to hell-raiser-in-cleats. Sunday through Friday, you can bring them home to Mom, serve up some apple pie and then retire to the den to take turns reading Scripture. But come Saturday, Thomas and Dansby flip a switch and morph into something you'd feel safer eyeballing behind a chain-link fence.
Thomas, the mild-mannered mama's boy, jabbers nonstop on the field, his language so profane even he can't believe those four-letter bombs are dropping from his mouth. Dansby is less chirpy, but that doesn't stop him from trying to put his helmet through your thorax. He wants to hit you so hard a snot bubble emerges from your nostril, like Punxsutawney Phil peeking out to see his shadow.
Just before kickoff, these two lugs meet in the tunnel or on the sideline and start an anything-you-can-do countdown to five-alarm intense. Who's gonna bring the hardest lick? Me, says Thomas, voice rising. No me, says Dansby, even louder. Who's gonna make the first interception? Who's gonna get the most sacks? Back and forth it goes, until the pair is in a full rabies lather that all but guarantees doom for the poor saps on the other sideline.
"They're about to witness something that's going to shock them," Thomas announces.
"They just don't know," Dansby answers.
The two seniors live to go from zero to Saturday. They worship at the altar of Ray Lewis and Brian Urlacher (Thomas wears Urlacher's No. 54). And they make no apologies for wanting to separate a quarterback's helmet from his cranium-for needing, as Dansby puts it, "to inflict pain."
Don't bother trying to find two linebackers on the same team better than these guys. Both nearly bolted to the NFL last spring, but here they are again, ready for a farewell tour of the SEC and a run at the national championship. They're just counting the days until they can unleash their kick-butt alter egos. "You've got to really love football to play linebacker," Tuberville says. "You're just right on the borderline of rage every play."
Few tiptoe that line better than Dansby. "Karlos is special," Dontarrious says. "He does things, and I don't know how he does them." Like the play in the 2001 Peach Bowl when an airborne Dansby batted the ball to Thomas while falling out of bounds. That one was nominated for an ESPY. Against Alabama last year, he took out two guys on one option.
Thomas has his share of trophies too. "You want to hit guys so hard that they don't want to get the ball no more," he says. Auburn coaches still get chills recounting his collision with USC tailback Malaefou MacKenzie in last season's opener at the Coliseum. After the hit, a Trojan teammate looked at MacKenzie lying on the ground, then looked at Thomas and said simply, "Gawd."
The 6'4" Thomas weighed 183 pounds when he left dinky Perry, Ga.; the 6'5" Dansby was 186 when he left Birmingham. Both were promised a chance to play receiver, but Tuberville had other things in mind for them: the weight room, the dinner table and the defensive side of the ball. The coach, who'd tutored Lewis as a Miami assistant, figured Dansby for defensive end and Thomas for safety before both grew into reluctant linebackers.
Dansby handled the switch so well you'd have thought Lewis was giving him private lessons. Karlos had played both ways in high school and manned the whip (Auburn's version of the strong safety/linebacker spot) in 2001, so the move to outside 'backer wasn't such a jump. "It just comes easy to me," he says.
The transition wasn't as smooth for Thomas. "It was a nightmare," he says. "I hated it." Asked to take on fullbacks who outweighed him by 60 pounds, and linemen at least 100 pounds bigger, he wondered if his coaches were trying to run him off. So he called his mom to say he was thinking of transferring. "At least give it a year," she said.
Now look at them. The 235-pound Dansby, a first-team all-SEC pick last year, is a preseason All-America. The 238-pound Thomas, a second-team all-SEC selection in 2001, probably would have joined him had he not been slowed by a knee injury. (Will two-time academic all-SEC do?)
This season, Thomas is playing yet another new position, moving from strongside to middle, while Dansby switches from weakside to his buddy's old spot. By now they've got this linebacking thing down to a science. In fact, Tuberville actually charts the amount of time his 'backers spend working their on-off switch. Let's see: it takes 12 seconds from the time the officials spot the ball to when they blow the whistle and signal for the 25-second play clock to start. Add about five seconds for the actual play. "That's 42 seconds," Tuberville says. "Three-fourths of that time they've got to be in control. The other 25%, they've got to let it all hang out. They've got to be in some sort of rage."
RAGE ISN'T cheap. Three hours of banging helmets and dodging chop blocks leaves a mark, which is why Thomas and Dansby are too exhausted to do the postgame party scene. Instead, they do the sleep scene. After that, they spend all week building up to those few seconds of let-it-all-hang-out.
Dansby wakes up Sunday "feeling 21 going on 32." He pops at least two tylenol every four hours, ices his shoulders and starts to focus on the next opponent. Thomas isn't much for pills, but his knee has become close and personal with the ice bag. By 1:30 that afternoon, they're at the football complex for light practice in full pads. Rage: in remission.
Monday's an off day: after classes and game video, there's PlayStation and wings with the fellas at Buffalo Connection. Tuesday, they turn on the ignition key. Thomas loves the intense full-pads practice; if it moves, he hits it. Walk-ons, first-teamers ... doesn't matter. They all look like targets to him. "My mind's starting to get set," he says.
By Wednesday they can sense their mood changing ever so slightly. They're a tad edgier. So they use contact drills with defensive linemen to work themselves into a nice little midweek froth. By practice's end, the duo look like they need distemper shots. "I practice on Tuesday and Wednesday the way I play in a game," Thomas says.
Thursday is slower out on the field. Hitting is kept to a minimum while the players focus on assignments. Of course, the students back in Thomas' apartment complex know better than to bother him two days before a game. While they're ordering kegs for the weekend, he's studying video and locking into Kill, Bubba, Kill mode. "You see fans start to get ready for the game," he says. "They get crazy. And you start thinking, 'I've got a chance to do something spectacular.' "
Home game or not, the Tigers spend Friday night in a hotel. There's a walk-through in shorts, special-teams meetings, position meetings, dinner, a prayer meeting and quiet time to review the playbook. And there's Dansby beginning his climb up Mt. Adrenaline. With his fast-twitch muscles begging to go out and play, he kills time by calling his dad back in Birmingham. He talks about how many picks and tackles he's going to have, then asks his old man to pray for him. He calls his girlfriend and tells her how he's going to do her proud.
Sleep? Are you kidding? These guys can't sleep. Thomas tosses and turns for hours the night before a game, especially if it's the Iron Bowl against Bama or if the schedule says Georgia, a school that hardly recruited him. (Auburn was the only D1 program to offer him a ride.) He thinks about the big plays and bone-crushing hits he's going to make, even if the volume's still on mute: "I'm not in that mood where I want to hurt somebody ... yet."
Thomas is more emotional than Dansby, more addicted to the highlight hit. He can recite the defensive game plan as effortlessly as he recites his address. But what he lives for-why he can't sleep in the wee hours-are those snot bubbles.
First thing Saturday morning, Dansby clicks on GameDay. Something about Lee Corso gets him jacked. And no matter what, he has to have pancakes for breakfast. A home game means Tiger Walk, with the Auburn players making the short trek from football complex to stadium as fans five-and six-deep line the road. Sometimes Dansby hears his mom in the crowd, yelling, "Better hustle, boy."
These aren't the same two guys who started the week with ice bags and tylenol. Now you need a flight of stairs to reach the top of their goose bumps. "It's like the Incredible Hulk," Dansby says. "One minute I'm laid-back. But as soon as I step off that bus and start that walk, that's when I feel like I'm busting out of my clothes, that my pants are ripping apart, my buttons are popping off. I'm a whole other person. Time for lights, camera, action."
"I walk into that stadium and my mind just changes," Thomas says. "That's when I switch."
Their lockers are side-by-side, but Dontarrious and Karlos generally keep to themselves. If the Tigers have lost their previous game, Thomas wears different shoes and gloves. Dansby always drinks one lemon-lime Powerade and gets his two big toes taped. Music is a must; Pastor Troy sets the tone. All that's left: their I'm-badder-than-you psych-up.
By the time Tuberville calls his team together minutes before kickoff, Thomas and Dansby are ready to rupture someone's spleen. "Eye of the Tiger" plays on the stadium speakers. The crowd is louder than a Metallica sound check.
"Time for business!" Thomas yells.
"Let's hose 'em down!" Dansby yells back.
Kickoff comes and goes. So do those 42-second waves. Through it all, you can hear it: the Voice.
"Y'all are so overrated."
"C'mon, you're gonna have to come harder at me than that, darlin'."
That's football rage to the Thomas/Dansby power. If you're smart, you'll keep all limbs, sideline mikes and team chaplains away from it. Respect it. Marvel at it. For further info, contact Mr. Larry Johnson.


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In case you missed it...
The North Shore of Lake Tahoe, along Lakeshore Boulevard, isn't exactly a "low income" neighborhood. And yet, that is where the one and only office is located for a company that uses taxpayer handouts to "invest" in federally designated "low income" communities. For an elite few, cronyism apparently has its benefits. (Read more)
Nevada has made a slight improvement in education, according to a new report. The Silver State is no longer the worst in the nation when it comes to education. Apparently, we're only the second worst. Since "business-as-usual" in education doesn't seem to be improving things, perhaps it's time to let parents take control, by giving them access to the most comprehensive school choice program in the nation, Education Savings Accounts. (Read more)
Taxes and fiscal:
The Clark County Commission unanimously agreed this week to alter the wording of a ballot measure asking voters if they want to keep the fuel revenue index tax. Prior to the index tax, motorists paid a 52 cent tax for every gallon of gasoline. Today, motorists pay 62 cents per gallon. If the ballot measure is approved, over the course of the next decade that amount will increase to more than 98 cents per gallon. (Read more)
Minimum wage:
In a 21-18 vote, the New Jersey Senate has agreed to hike the state's minimum hourly wage from $8.38 an hour to $15 by the year 2021. The increase is a big win for the Service Employee International Union, which has been pushing hard for the increase. But it's a major loss for entry-level and low-skilled workers. The move is expected to kill roughly 33,500 jobs, with 91.7 percent of those losses impacting workers in the retail and food service sector who don't have college degrees. (Read more)
European Union:
World leaders are quite clearly nervous now that Britain has voted to leave the European Union. However, leaders in Switzerland are showing optimism, having themselves decided to formally remain independent from the EU. "A big advantage of leaving the EU is free trade worldwide, not only between the member states, making it easier and cheaper for companies to export their goods to the rest of the world," said Swiss MP Lukas Reimann. (Read more)
ESA update
Hello All,
Last week was a busy week for the Education Savings Account lawsuits. Let's take a look at what happened and what it all means.
In the Lopez case, the northern Nevada case which has the injunction, the Attorney General's office (State's attorney), on Tuesday, filed an unopposed motion with the Nevada Supreme Court seeking to postpone oral arguments until the last week of July. You may recall, oral arguments were set for July 8.
Resetting the oral argument to the last week of July was sought to allow the State's counsel of choice, Mr. Paul Clement, who will be out of country on July 8, to present the State's argument to the Court. Clement, outside counsel retained by the State is with the Bancroft law firm in Washington D.C., is a former United States Solicitor General and a renowned attorney who has argued upwards of 69 cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. For sure, a tremendous asset to our ESA legal team!
The AG's motion also emphasized that moving oral arguments until late July could accommodate the Court's previously stated preference to hear arguments in both the Lopez and Duncan cases on the same day should the ACLU appeal in Duncan (they subsequently did).
The following morning, Wednesday, the Nevada Supreme Court granted the State's motion in Lopez, rescheduling oral arguments for Friday, July 29 at 10 a.m. Arguments will take place at the Regional Justice Center, located at 200 Lewis Ave —17th Floor, in Las Vegas. Hey, if you're thinking of going, let me know.
Then, on Friday, the ACLU finally filed its notice of appeal in Duncan, the ACLU case in southern Nevada which was dismissed by Judge Eric Johnson last month.
So, in summary, the Lopez case, and any decision lifting the injunction will be delayed. And if the court consolidates the two cases (a motion to do so still needs to be filed and granted) Duncan may proceed with a shortened briefing period. It's not known yet if consolidating the arguments will further delay Lopez. But from reading the court exhibits filed with this motion (including email communications between the AG and the ACLU), it appears the ACLU is amenable to holding arguments for Duncan in late July.
Hopefully — fingers crossed — with this latest development, we are now on a single, expedited track to both decisions.
How does all this effect funding? Well… looks like November is the soonest.
When you really think about it, though, all the stars and planets would have had to align to fund in August. That's not to say it couldn't have happened. But, I am a realist. And, when you really think about it, any decision to meet August funding depended on the Justices returning a decision within a week. While that has happened before, it's just not the norm.
Moreover, when you also consider that the closely related Duncan case would be simultaneously working its way through the Supreme Court's briefing process, it seems not at all certain the Court would have turned around a decision too quickly. After all, justices might be thinking of the potential for new legal insight from Duncan. Courts don't frequently just toss their "preferences" out into the universe. So this may be a big hint they want to consolidate.
A brief reminder: A few days still exist for you to get your applications turned in. Don't let all the legal maneuvering dissuade you from applying for the program if you were thinking on it. This is just how the wheels of justice turn. Remember, applications must be stamped received in the Treasurer's office by 5 p.m. on June 30th to be considered for this enrollment period.
Next week, I will be at the new David O. McKay Academy locations providing information on ESAs and helping with applications and document scanning. Details are still being finalized, so be sure to visit our Event page on NevadaESA.com for more information.
Stay Strong! And, #LetOurChildrenSuceed
In case you missed it...
Energy policy:
Energy policy is arguably the most important factor affecting the strength of Nevada's economy. Abundant and affordable energy directly lowers consumer energy bills — but it also reduces production and operating costs that factor into virtually all goods and services traded in our economy. Rising energy costs, by contrast, bring the economic pain of a tax hike to virtually every corner of the state. The Nevada Energy Policy Guide is a step-by-step outline to reining in Nevada's sky-high energy costs. (Read more)
Free speech:
Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healy is the latest state prosecutor to target non-profit think tanks that have conducted research critical of man-made global warming. Healy has issued a subpoena for 40 years of internal company documents and communications between Exxon Mobile and think tanks on the national and state level. Healy's actions are part of a multistate effort among a number of attorneys general to "investigate" Exxon for "trying to cover up global warming" science. (Read more)
Government waste:
According to a report on government waste, compiled by Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ), more than $35 million have been used to fund research projects that have virtually nothing to do with American national interests. Among this long list of wasted money, was $170,000 used to fund a study titled "Walking with Coffee: Why Does it spill?" In addition to studying why walking might increase coffee spillage, the study also had some solid advice for folks who suffer from frequent spillage incidents around the office: put a lid on your cup. (Read more)
Taxes and fiscal:
Exactly how burdensome is the federal tax code? Well, Americans will spend more than 8 billion hours and $409 billion complying with the tax code in 2016. With more than 2.4 million words in the tax code, and 7.7 million words in related regulations, it's pretty safe to say "very burdensome" is the correct answer. (Read more)
Public sector employees:
According to government reports, 99 percent of federal employees are rated "fully successful" or higher on their job performance. Of course, the system isn't exactly objective. Managers who rate their employees less than "fully successful" must undergo appeal attempts, union grievances and respond to the Merit Systems Protection Board. This process can often cost agencies tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. And as a result, the official reports tend to show a successful and efficient government workforce — even if the reality is something else altogether. (Read more)
In case you missed it…
Taxes and fiscal:
It has been more than three years since the IRS admitted to harassing conservative non-profits ahead of the 2012 presidential election — and now we finally know how many organizations were actually targeted. A staggering 466 organizations were singled out by IRS officials for extra scrutiny because of their political orientation, according to a report filed by the tax agency itself. Keep in mind, when the story first broke, the IRS officially claimed no such harassment had taken place. (Read more)
Energy policy:
Green-energy mandates, officially known as "Renewable Portfolio Standards," are laws that require a certain percentage of a state's energy production to be from renewable sources, such as wind or solar. While there are some marginal economic benefits to greater reliance on green energy, these benefits are overshadowed by the substantially more expensive cost of production. In 2016 these mandates will reduce Nevada's economic growth by $1.7 billion, and reduce the state's employment growth by 11,000 jobs. (Read more. And learn how to RSVP for NPRI's June 15th energy policy luncheon by clicking here.)
Pension reform:
It's bad enough that taxpayers are on the hook for trillions of dollars in unfunded liabilities, thanks to overly-generous public employee retirement pensions — but now we might be on the hook for private sector pensions as well. Lawmakers are working to pass legislation that would "protect" the health and pension benefits of a private sector union, the United Mine Workers of America. And by "protect," of course, they mean "bailout." (Read more)
Collective bargaining:
Teacher unions are not designed to protect students, taxpayers or parents. But don't take our word for it: Albert Shanker, the longtime president of the United Federation of Teachers union, infamously explained that "when school children start paying union dues, that's when [we'll] start representing the interests of school children." (Read more)
Media bias:
Tech giant Google is allegedly manipulating its online search engine to give favorable treatment to Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign. While there doesn't seem to be any direct connection between the tech giant and the Clinton campaign, an in-depth study shows that Google alters search results to hide terms and articles that might be damaging to the presidential hopeful. (Read more)
School's out for the summer!
"School's out for summer!"
Remember singing those lyrics as child? Better yet, as a parent?
I sure do.
I know it's that time of year when parents are looking to recharge and switch off the early morning alarms, homework, car-loops, lunch boxes, backpacks and the like. So, before parents completely turn off their get-the-kids-to-school routines, I thought I should give an ESA update. And, don't worry, I will still be out there over the summer with Heels in the Field doing outreach and keeping you up-to-date on the country's #1 educational choice program!
Over the past month, NevadaESA.com has added well over 300 people to the email list. So, this summer kick-off is going to cover the gamut.
Most Asked Questions:
- If I applied during a previous enrollment period, do I need to reapply? No. The Treasurer's office asks families not to reapply. The office will pick up where the program left off before the injunction. Letters were in the hopper to parents who submitted applications in 2015. They will go out once the injunction is lifted (I have faith). Applications received after the injunction (2016) will be processed and notices will go out when the injunction is lifted (still having faith).
- When I applied during the 2015 enrollment period, my child was under age 7. Now he is 7 years old. Do I need to do 100 school days and reapply? No and no. The Treasurer's office has stated it will pick up where the program left off before the injunction. Letters of acceptance to the families of 5 and 6 year olds were ready to be sent. They will be sent once the injunction is lifted (I have faith).
- Once the injunction is lifted (again, I have faith), will funding be retroactive? No. There will be no "back- pay," so to say. Funding applies to forward expenses. Any costs incurred between applying and the start of funding is the parent's responsibility.
- What can I do to help? Spread the word about ESA and NevadaESA.com. When parents are informed about the various educational choices available to them, they are empowered to become effective advocates for their children. Remember, I am happy to come talk in your homes, churches, sports practices, civic groups, place of work, etc… No group is too small or too large.
100-school-day requirement:
- Nevada law requires enrollment in a public school for the 100 school days immediately preceding an ESA application for program eligibility. Do not apply before 100 school days.
- Holidays, in-service days, and school breaks are not counted towards the 100 days.
- The 100 school days can cross school years. So, you could earn some days in the 2015-16 school year and the rest in the 2016-17 school year. However, you must be continuously enrolled.
- *** The 100-school-day requirement is waived for 5 and 6 year olds *** Your child must be 5 years old by September 30, 2016 to be eligible for the 2016-17 school year.
- *** The 100-school-day requirement is waived for active duty military families ***
Applications: English and Spanish versions available
- The Treasurer is now accepting applications through June 30th. Applications must be stamped received in the Treasurer's office by 5:00 p.m. on June 30th to meet the deadline.
- Due to the injunction in the Lopez case, applications will not be processed. You will not receive notice of receipt from the Treasurer's office. I recommend mailing your application certified-return-receipt. Keep your receipt as proof of delivery.
- You may also hand-deliver your application to the Carson City office at 101 N. Carson Street, Suite 4, or the Grant Sawyer office in Las Vegas, located at 555 E. Washington. Ask for a copy of the stamped application, or take a picture on your phone. Keep for your records.
- I will have Heels in the Field on June 14th for an ESA information and application assistance event at TCMI Church located at 5101 N. Rainbow, off Rancho Drive across from the Santa Fe Station Hotel & Casino at 6:30 p.m. Thank you, Karla Raypon-Severson, for all your hard work. [link to flyer]
- Be sure to check NevadaESA.com for summer events. I will be in the field all summer.
- In the Lopez case, the northern Nevada case with the injunction, the Nevada Supreme Court has set oral arguments for Friday, July 8, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. for one hour. Arguments will take place in Las Vegas at the Regional Justice Center, located at 200 Lewis Avenue on the 17th Floor.
- On May 18, 2016, Judge Eric Johnson dismissed with prejudice, meaning the case can't be refiled, the Duncan case in southern Nevada brought by the ACLU. The ACLU has until July 1st to file a notice of appeal to the Nevada Supreme Court.
As we have learned this past year, when it comes to lawsuits, the cases are always fluid — meaning things change often. Motions are filed, extensions are granted, hearings are rescheduled, etc.… So, be sure to look for my updates.
Depending on how quickly the Nevada Supreme Court turns out a decision in Lopez, the Treasurer's office is gearing up for an August funding. Now, I'm going to be very honest here, any hope for an August funding is going to require swift action by schools, vendors and parents.
- Please, have the necessary documents to complete your application or registrations scanned, uploaded and ready to go on your computer. So when asked to upload them, it's a quick click and done. I am happy to help you scan. I have portable scanners… and I do travel.
- Be sure to monitor your email daily once the injunction is lifted (I really do have faith). Check your junk email to make sure you haven't received an email from the Treasurer's office.
- Once the injunction is lifted (have I told you, I'm moving forward with faith that everything is going to turn out just right?), the Treasurer's office has asked that parents, schools and vendors give the office a few weeks to get the system back online, register participating entities and input the more than 2500 paper applications waiting before making calls. The office will send emails as they are ready to proceed.
Stay Strong! And, #LetOurChildrenSucceed
In case you missed it...
Energy Policy:
Government's attempts to centrally plan Nevada's Energy future has created a mess for ratepayers. Renewable Portfolio Standards, crony "green-energy" subsidies and NV Energy's utility monopoly have resulted in ever-increasing energy costs for the state. As a consequence, ratepayers are in desperate need of sound policy solutions. Join NPRI on June 15th for a policy luncheon outlining how rational energy policy can bring superior future economic success to the Silver State. (RSVP here)
Over half of the 23 healthcare co-ops created by Obamacare have gone bankrupt, leaving little doubt that the program is in need of substantial reform. The latest co-op to declare insolvency, Ohio's InHealth Mutual, is the 13th — leaving nearly 22,000 consumers with a mere 60 days to find new health coverage. Despite $129 million in taxpayer-backed loans, the company reported an underwriting loss of more than $80 million. (Read more)
Free markets:
Socialism doesn't work. Thanks to the central planners in Caracas, the nation of Venezuela is in an apocalyptic economic freefall. Due to inflation, food items such as McDonalds French-fries cost hundreds of dollars, and basic living supplies such as sugar, toilet paper and fuel are so scarce that rioting is almost non-stop in major metropolitan areas. Moreover, the economic collapse brought on by the nation's socialist policies have resulted in widespread violence, the world's highest murder rate and tyrannical martial law throughout the nation's population centers. (Read more)
Economic development:
They descended on Nevada legislators in 2013, promising new jobs in the state's depressed areas and higher tax revenue for state government. "They" included the head national lobbyist for one of the nation's biggest firms targeting the government-subsidized investment industry, Advantage Capital Partners, and the legislation's sponsor, State Senate Republican Minority Leader Michael C. Roberson. And the result was $112 million in taxpayer money being spent for, essentially, zilch. (Read more)
Labor force:
A record number of Americans are no longer working, or even looking for work, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. In May, the number of Americans not participating in the labor force climbed to nearly 95 million. To put that number into perspective, that is almost 15 million more people not looking for work since the tail end of the "great recession" in 2009. (Read more)
In case you missed it...
I hope everyone has a fantastic and safe Memorial Day weekend. Please take the time to remember those who have sacrificed everything for our freedom.
God bless our men and women in uniform, their families and all those heroes who have come before them.
Enjoy the Memorial Day weekend!
Warm regards,
Sharon J. Rossie
NPRI President
In case you missed it in the news this week:
The Nevada Supreme Court has finally set a date to hear oral arguments in the remaining case against Education Savings Accounts. The court sent a notice to lawyers on both sides of the issue that the justices would meet on July 8th, at Regional Justice Center in Las Vegas, to hear one hour of argument. (Read more)
After Obamacare was passed, lawmakers suddenly realized that they would be subjected to some of the same arbitrary and burdensome rules that average Americans face. In an effort to circumvent the hurdles and restrictions with which other individuals contend, Congress decided to attempt an administrative fix by categorizing themselves as a "small business" — thereby making congressmen, and their staff, eligible for federal subsidies. (Read more)
Media bias:
In a documentary about the country's struggles with gun control, Katie Couric and director Stephanie Soechtig, toured the nation looking for "reasonable" gun control policy proposals. Critics of the documentary, however, blasted the film after it came to light that an interview between Couric and a group of Second Amendment advocates was intentionally edited in an attempt to discredit the pro-gun argument, and boost the film's anti-gun narrative. (Read more)
Voter and election fraud:
Southern California has a problem with voter fraud — and it's not always that difficult to spot. One voter who died in 2006, somehow managed to cast ballots in 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2014 as well. Another woman who died in 1988 has been voting for 26 years, including in the 2014 election. (Read more)
Veteran and military affairs:
This video of a teary-eyed West Point graduate has been making the rounds on social media — and with good reason. This young man's story, and his devotion to American freedom, is a heartwarming reminder of why our men and women in uniform are among the best this country has to offer. (Read more)
In case you missed it…
Real educational choice for parents and children is one step closer to becoming a reality in Nevada, after a Clark County District Court Judge dismissed the ACLU's lawsuit against the state's Education Savings Account program. Even though an injunction remains on the program as the Nevada Supreme Court hears another challenge to the law, Wednesday's news was a big step in the right direction. (Read more)
Welfare and public assistance:
When Maine decided to place limits on welfare, critics argued the reforms would leave the state's impoverished families devastated and hungry. In reality, it has done exactly the opposite. One woman who had found herself trapped in a never-ending cycle of government assistance has since pulled herself from poverty — and she credits the state's limits on welfare for her new lease on life. "Nothing feels as good as earning your own money," she told the Daily Signal. (Read more)
Climate Change:
A libertarian nonprofit group is seeking damages from the U.S. Virgin Islands' chief law enforcement officer. Virgin Islands Attorney General Claude Walker had joined with Democrat attorneys general in 17 states who have been pursuing racketeering charges against Exxon Mobil and various non-profit think tanks, for their denial of man-made global warming. Attorneys representing the Competitive Enterprise Institute filed a motion in Washington D.C. against Walker, citing a law that protects policy groups from harassment and politically-motivated legal action. (Read more)
Civil asset forfeiture:
Congress is finally taking a small step toward reforming policies that allow law enforcement agencies to confiscate the property of citizens without due process. Newly proposed legislation would raise the burden of proof from a "preponderance of evidence" to "clear and convincing" evidence, which makes it more difficult for the government to use asset forfeiture moving forward. While it is not a full restoration of private property rights or due process, it is at least a shift in the right direction after decades of systematic abuse by various agencies. (Read more)
Security and privacy:
There might be one upside to the TSA's abysmal performance in recent months: Airports are now considering booting the agency from their property, and replacing them with private security firms. Management from the three major airports in New York are fed up with TSA's long lines, inconsistent performance standards and repeated security lapses. As a result, they're thinking about firing the feds, and turning to the private sector for their security needs. (Read more)
ACLU case dismissed against ESAs
Alright, am I the only one who forgot to cook dinner and had a hard time falling asleep last night!?
Just in case you missed it: Yesterday, District Court Judge, Eric Johnson, dismissed the ACLU case challenging the constitutionality of Nevada's Education Savings Account program.
I will tell you, I cried tears of joy. For so long, Nevada families have been on an emotional rollercoaster, and I was completely overwhelmed when I heard the news. I just bawled like a baby. And now, I admit, I'm still floating a few feet off the ground.
Okay, sure, there's still an injunction and there is still a long road ahead — but I am taking this win as an opportunity to stop, smell the flowers and live in the moment.
Last night, after finally getting pork chops on the table, I sat down to really review Judge Johnson's ruling and get an email to everyone on this list. But my mind just couldn't stay focused. I kept thinking about all the families with which I've spoken, all the families that are praying for this opportunity and everyone else who is waiting and holding strong. By midnight, I still hadn't gotten through the order. Nor had I written one word.
Then, as I read — for the hundredth time— these words, "This Court concludes Plaintiffs have not alleged facts establishing its claim that the Legislature's creation of the ESA program violates Article XI, section 10, prohibiting the use of public funds for a sectarian purpose. Plaintiffs' claim is dismissed," it occurred to me, I wasn't doing anyone a service by trying to rush through things. Not at all.
Since January, Nevada's parents have been staying strong, keeping patient and digging their heels in for strength. Yesterday, however, Judge Johnson gave us all an opportunity to exhale a deep breath, smile from ear-to-ear and celebrate. So, please, pardon my indulgence, but I just need to exhale for a minute.
Let's take a day or two and embrace this moment. Tomorrow's road will be there…well, tomorrow.
In fact, starting next week, NevadaESA.com and several fabulous partners will hold three ESA/tax scholarship community information meetings. While these events have been in the planning for weeks, their timing on May 24th , May 25th and May 31st provides tremendous opportunity for families to get the "latest from the greatest"!
Representatives from the Treasurer's and Attorney General's office, plus Donna Wix from the Department of Education, will all be present to provide updates, information and answer your questions on the programs and ESA lawsuits. I will also be there to answer questions, and help parents with applications and document scanning.
Not only could these events be the last chance to get large numbers of families informed in time to apply for the Education Savings Accounts and the Tax Scholarships for the start of the upcoming 2016-17 school year, it is also a great opportunity to ask the experts about the road ahead, and what we should learn from the judge's ruling.
Also, we can take the time to say, "thank you" to those officials and their teams who have worked so hard for Nevada families and children. Imagine how they will feel seeing the actual faces of the parents and children for which they are fighting. I can't think of a better way to say, "THANK YOU!"
Whether you have already applied for an ESA, — you don't need to reapply — are sitting on the fence, or seeking to learn about Nevada's educational choice opportunities for the first time, I invite you to attend these public events. And, please, let's spread the word to other families.
ESA and tax scholarship application time!
Hello friends,
It's that time of year again — end-of-school-year plays, concerts, awards and graduation ceremonies. And also, ESA and tax scholarship application time!
I know parents and schools are running dizzy with all the festivities. And, then, in a blink, it will be summer and families will be embracing vacations, slower days and relaxing family evenings. That's why our team has been working hard to get parents informed, prepared, and updated on Nevada's educational choice opportunities.
Over the past few weeks, we've been to Pahrump, a few homes, a fundraiser and several Vegas-area schools providing information and helping parents complete applications and scan documents. We've also been working really hard with some spectacular partners to organize three community information events — two in the Las Vegas area and one in Reno.
Tuesday, May 24th — Historical West Last Vegas
Reconciliation Apostolic Ministries
911 G Street
Las Vegas, Nevada 89106
Wednesday, May 25th — Henderson
Henderson International School
1165 Sandy Ridge Ave.
Henderson, Nevada 89052
5:30 pm
Tuesday, May 31st — Reno
Bishop Manogue Catholic High School — Small Gym
110 Bishop Manogue Dr.
Reno, NV 89521
6:00 pm
Representatives from the Treasurer's and Attorney General's office, plus Donna Wix from the Department of Education and I, will all be present to provide updates, information and answer your questions on the programs and ESA lawsuits. Application assistance and document scanning help will also be available.
These events may be the last opportunity to get large numbers of families informed in time to apply for the Education Savings Accounts and the Tax Scholarships for the start of the upcoming 2016-17 school year. An order is expected as soon as today, possibly, in the Duncan case (the one brought in southern Nevada by the ACLU), and these public events also offer unparalleled opportunities for schools, families and whole communities to receive, firsthand, the latest information from knowledgeable experts.
I'm reaching out to everyone on this email list to help me distribute information about these events to the community. Whatever you can do, your help is needed. Maybe you can distribute fliers in your surrounding community, take fliers to football practice and other parent gatherings, or just forward this email to everyone you know.
Let's work together to empower Nevada families so all can secure the best educational opportunities for their children — whether they choose a traditional public school, charter school, private school or home-based learning. And, to all you social media gurus, I am indebted to you always for all your posts on #LetOurChildrenSucceed. Any way you can help, I am deeply grateful.
And, be sure to keep yourself up-to-date. Attend one or all of the information events — and bring some friends. Make sure to come by and introduce yourself!
Also, let your neighbors know the state Treasurer is accepting ESA applications through June 30th. Applications must be stamped and received in the office by 5:00 pm by June 30th. While those application can't be processed while the injunction in Lopez is still in effect, they can, as soon as that injunction is lifted. Until then, parents won't receive notice of receipt from the Treasurer's office. I recommend sending applications certified, return-receipt-requested. That way you'll have proof of delivery, should that be needed later. Please, please, hold on to your receipt.
For families seeking the tax scholarship, the Education Fund of Northern Nevada is accepting applications until June 1st. Dinosaurs and Roses are accepting applications from current scholarship families and will open applications to new families on May 20th.
Stay Strong!
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, even after fastcgi was enabled, my host suggested to install eAccelerator. It sounds good in principle (caching php compilation) but I was wondering if this would interfere with W3? Should I go for it? Any advice would be appreciated.
p.s. to Frederick: I emailed you a couple of days ago regarding how much you would charge for optimizing my server. Can you get back to me please? Thanks.


text: This is a low season for Siem Reap before the monsoon rains arrive. Tuk Tuks and restaurants are not busy. You can negotiate a better rate with Tuk Tuks. In comparison with Bangkok or Phnom Penh we felt safer taking the Tuk Tuks in Siem Reap. Take a Tuk Tuk for a city tour for US$4. Locals in Cambodia seem... More


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I have installed Jetpack on two of my blogs.
It works well and I'm very satisfied. Now I'm trying to install it on a third blog, but I can't. I keep getting told to "Sign in to your WordPress.com account to authorize the Jetpack connection."
I don't have one! As far as I know I didn't need a wordpress.com account to install Jetpack on my other sites - as far as I know I used my wordpress.org account. Has something changed?
When I try to open a WordPress.com account I am channeled to a site to start a wordpress.com blog. I don't want one! I just want to activate Jetpack on elinsstory.com
How can I do this please!


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Our 60-Second Answer to Why Go Eze Private Cloud?
Cloud computing is becoming a standard IT deployment method for the investment management industry. In fact, our 2012 survey found that 8 in 10 investment management firms are either currently or planning to use a cloud service. So once a hedge fund or alternative decides to go cloud the next question is "why go Eze Private Cloud?"
Well, we have the perfect answer to that, and you can have it in just 60-seconds. Watch our quick video and learn why Eze Private Cloud is the investment industry standard for cloud services.
Categorized under: Cloud Computing Eze Castle Milestones Infrastructure Launching A Hedge Fund Outsourcing Trends We're Seeing Videos And Infographics
Recapping the 2013 London Hedge Fund Cloud Summit
On 19th March, the Eze Castle Integration team in London hosted their first-ever Hedge Fund Cloud Summit at the Prince Philip House.
Eze Castle Integration along with leading experts in the financial services industry - INDOS Financial Limited, Morgan Stanley Prime Brokerage, Bloomberg, Credit Suisse Prime Services, Lucidus Capital Partners LLP, Portman Square, LLP, eSentire, Global Relay, and Simmons & Simmons - came together to provide a half day educational seminar featuring a wealth of information on the cloud to over 100 hedge fund and alternative investments firms.
Categorized under: Cloud Computing Security Infrastructure Outsourcing Trends We're Seeing
Hedge Fund Infographic: You know you're a Private Cloud User if...
Today, we're excited be hosting the 2013 London Hedge Fund Cloud Summit at the Prince Philip House in London. The event features a variety of industry experts participating in thought-provoking panel disccussions focused on the cloud adoption trends shaping the investment industry. Conversations will touch on everything from the differences between public and private clouds to cloud security and application hosting.
In honor of this event and to provide a visual to help encapsulate the many benefits that come from leveraging a private cloud, we have published a new infographic entitled "You Might be a Private Cloud User If…" Check it out to see the top 10 signs that you are likely a private cloud user. For more information and details on the 2013 London Hedge Fund Cloud Summit please visit the event page. Also, be sure to look out for a recap of the event here on the Hedge IT blog next week!
Categorized under: Cloud Computing Eze Castle Milestones Hedge Fund Due Diligence Hedge Fund Operations Hedge Fund Regulation Launching A Hedge Fund Trends We're Seeing Videos And Infographics
What are Investors Thinking...When it Comes to Hedge Fund IT?
Yesterday our VP of client technology, Steve Schoener, presented on a California Hedge Fund Association webinar about building an institutional infrastructure at today's hedge funds. A lofty topic (so consider this a basic primer), Steve focused on four key discussion areas, which we'll recap here. They were:
Investor Expectations of IT
On-premise & Cloud solutions: Which is right?
Security Risks & Best Practices
Disaster Recovery How-Tos
You can watch the 30-minute webinar now or keep reading below.
Categorized under: Infrastructure Cloud Computing Hedge Fund Due Diligence Hedge Fund Operations Launching A Hedge Fund Outsourcing Security Trends We're Seeing
Is the Asia Hedge Fund Market Going Cloud? A Q&A with Serge Bukhar
Last year, Eze Castle Integration expanded their award winning Eze Private Cloud services to Asia. The Eze Private Cloud is used by more than 2,000 hedge fund professionals worldwide to simplify operations, minimise upfront capital costs and gain a highly resilient, enterprise-grade IT infrastructure on par with billion-dollar funds.
I recently sat down with Serge Bukhar, Executive Director of International Operations at Eze Castle Integration, to talk about the hedge fund market in Asia, and the attitude and adoption of cloud computing.
What is the current state of the hedge fund industry in Asia?
Singapore and Hong Kong are the hedge fund capitals in Asia. We have seen a contrast between the status of large and small hedge funds in Asia. Many larger funds are struggling, with some shutting down, while smaller funds are increasingly doing well and delivering positive results to their investors. Both groups, however, are looking for ways to increase efficiencies and reduce costs.
Categorized under: Trends We're Seeing Cloud Computing
We've Reached 300 Posts! It's time for the Hedge IT Blog Awards!
It's hard to believe it, but we have officially reached the 300th post here on the Hedge IT blog!
To commemorate this special occasion, we're bringing back the Hedge IT blog awards honoring the best articles, topics and trends from the past year as a way of saying "thanks" to all of our loyal readers. We look forward to continuing this tradition of sharing valuable, thought provoking content with you again this year. Here's to the next 100 posts!
Categorized under: Eze Castle Milestones Trends We're Seeing
The Hedge Fund CFO's IT Checklist: Questions to ask about the Cloud
Here on the Hedge IT blog, we love to talk about the cloud. However, most of our discussions focus on the technology and operational considerations for investment firms. This week, we're taking a different approach and looking at the cloud from a business perspective. On Tuesday we explored the business case for moving to the cloud. Today, we're taking the CFO's point of view.
You're a hedge fund CFO. Your CTO has proposed moving the organization's IT infrastructure to the cloud using a third party service provider. What questions should you ask to gain a better understanding of the impact this change could have on your team and the firm at large?
Categorized under: Cloud Computing Hedge Fund Operations Infrastructure Outsourcing
The Business Case for Moving to the Cloud: A Hedge Fund Manager's View
While the technology benefits of moving to the cloud are well known, the business case for moving to the cloud is just as important. The hedge fund industry is increasingly moving towards cloud computing not only for the vast technology benefits, but also for the enhanced efficiencies, high quality technology environment, and numerous cost savings. Read on to learn the business case for adopting cloud computing technology at your firm.
Transferring from CapEx to OpEx
Today, many hedge funds are grappling with ways to achieve efficient operations while remaining as competitive as possible. Companies are examining the costs associated with their IT departments in order to determine the best way to make their technology more cost effective. For many firms, this means moving to the cloud. One of the major benefits of adopting cloud computing technology is the resulting movement from CapEx to OpEx.
This shift allows a decrease in capital expenditures (CapEx) and an increase in operational expenses (OpEx), providing potential tax benefits. The tax benefit is the result of OpEx allowing for the deduction of expenses in the current year and the cutting of tax liability applied to net income. Furthermore, there are few upfront capital expenditures associated with adopting a cloud model as there with building out in-house comm rooms and data centers. This is because cloud providers deploy a "pay-as-you-go" service model.
Categorized under: Cloud Computing Hedge Fund Operations Infrastructure
Microsoft Licensing Audits Ramping Up: Are you up to date?
This fall, Microsoft's new Windows 8 operating system captured the attention of many customers. Windows 8, however, isn't the only Microsoft change 2013 will bring. Microsoft is planning to provide stricter oversight of its auditing process by conducting up to 30,000 licensing audits on small to midsize companies by 2014. Here is an overview of why you should ensure that your software is up to date and what to expect when it comes to the Microsoft licensing audits.
What are the Microsoft Licensing Audits?
In 2013, Microsoft will conduct audits on customers' software usage. The audits will be mainly focused on mid-size companies with 500 - 2,000 computers. Many large companies have already put strict companywide licensing policies in place, but smaller firms typically have less formalized processes for ensuring all devices are licensed appropriately. As a result, Microsoft's auditing focus is shifting to smaller companies. These audits will ensure that clients' software is correctly licensed and paid for.
Categorized under: Hedge Fund Regulation Hedge Fund Operations Software
I'm Launching a Hedge Fund. What Tech Questions Do I Ask?
The latest HFR Global Hedge Fund Industry Report found that hedge fund assets increased by $60 billion in the fourth quarter of 2012, bringing total industry capital to a record $2.25 trillion. With hedge funds posting performance gains and the new year upon us, we expect to see new hedge fund launches take off.
Technology is just one of the many areas to consider when starting a hedge fund. To help jump start the process, below is a list of some commonly asked questions we receive.
Where do I start in creating a technology budget for my hedge fund?
It is important to note that whether a firm selects to go with an in-house IT solution or cloud computing there will be implications on technology budgeting. Once in-house versus cloud is evaluated, it is important to think about the workflows and systems you use to complete your work – be it email, reports, phones, market vendor applications, and/or risk systems. You can find a technology budgeting worksheet here to help with your planning.
Categorized under: Launching A Hedge Fund Cloud Computing Hedge Fund Due Diligence Hedge Fund Operations Infrastructure Outsourcing


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Quick Shots: Silent Hill: Downpour screens are dreary
Konami has released some new screenshots from Vatra's Silent Hill: Downpour, and each is unsurprisingly dreary. Not like any of the Silent Hill games are full of unicorn and rainbows or anything, just an observation is all. The game is slated for a winter release on PS3 and Xbox 360, and it is also expected for PS Vita whenever it hits stores.
Sometimes we include links to online retail stores. If you click on one and make a purchase we may receive a small commission. For more information, go here.


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text:
Where can I find a list of open applications ? Is it possible to switch to them using that ?
Long pressing on the home button will bring up the six most recently accessed apps and you can switch them. How many stay in the memory depends on your phone and the size off the app. Android keeps all opened apps in the memory until it needs space. There are countless apps that show what apps are running in your memory. Search the market for "app manager" or "task manager". One I particularly like is Smart Bar.
BTW, if you search for whether you should use ATK to kill apps, you'll see a lot of advice telling you it's not needed for Froyo. I had not heard of ATK Froyo until now, so I don't know what makes it different than the original ATK.


text:
Is there anything I can do to stop the bleeding? Is the little bit of bleeding even anything to worry about!
I would appreciate any kind of feedback. This is my first pregnancy so this is all new and the one thing I have heard is that bleeding is the ONE thing that shouldn't happen.


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Amarlo Herrera
- CollegeGeorgia Bulldogs
- PositionLINEBACKER
- HometownCollege Park, GA
Go to
UGA recruiting classes of the decade: No. 2
Continuing our run-up to Georgia's spring practice, this week we'll review the Bulldogs' five best recruiting classes of the last decade.Today, we'll look at No.about 887 days ago | David Ching | ESPN.com
UGA position groups to improve: No. 5
Georgia doesn't open spring practice until March 18, so we'll use the next few weeks to look ahead to those all-important workouts and preview what to watch once the Bulldogs get started.about 897 days ago | David Ching | ESPN.com
Season wrap: Georgia
What started with a bang ended with a whimper for Georgia, with a season full of promise derailed by injuries to key players and defensive lapses at key junctures.about 923 days ago | David Ching | ESPN.com
Unheralded players in the SEC
Not every player has the profile to earn an invite to New York for the Heisman Trophy ceremonies. Like any famous party, it's reserved for the select few, the guest list limited to only well-known names like McCarron, Mason and Manziel.about 956 days ago | Alex Scarborough | ESPN.com
Five Bulldogs who need a strong offseason
ATHENS, Ga. -- The offseason is important for every college player, but it is particularly valuable for those hoping to make the transition from off-the-radar prospect to essential contributor.about 963 days ago | David Ching | ESPN.com
Georgia needs to become two-half defense
ATHENS, Ga. -- Amarlo Herrera isn't ready to assess Georgia's 2014 defense yet. Not when the Bulldogs still have to play a bowl game before this season is complete.about 964 days ago | David Ching | ESPN.com
Reviewing a wild season of UGA football
ATHENS, Ga. -- Georgia's season is obviously not over, as we'll learn the 8-4 Bulldogs' postseason fate sometime within the next week. But Saturday's double-overtime win against Georgia Tech put an exclamation point on easily the craziest regular season in Mark Richt's 13 seasons as Georgia's coach.about 967 days ago | David Ching | ESPN.com
Georgia Tech offense: Death by 1,000 cuts
ATHENS, Ga. -- Garrison Smith is prepared for the inevitable and knows what he has to do against Georgia Tech on Saturday -- something Florida's defenders struggled to accomplish in last Saturday's upset loss against a similar Georgia Southern offense.about 970 days ago | David Ching | ESPN.com
Five things: Georgia-Kentucky
ATHENS, Ga. -- Here are five things you need to know leading up to Saturday night's game between Georgia (6-4, 4-3 SEC) and Kentucky (2-8, 0-6).Last time for the seniors: This is it for Aaron Murray and Georgia's 27 other seniors who will play their final home game at Sanford Stadium.about 976 days ago | David Ching | ESPN.com
Five things: Georgia-Auburn
Here are five factors to watch today as No. 25 Georgia visits No. 7 Auburn.Defending the zone read: You've likely read this week that the No. 1 key for Georgia today is defending Auburn's running game, which leads the SEC and ranks third nationally at 320 yards per game.about 983 days ago | David Ching | ESPN.com
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Exploring the varying covariate effects in proportional odds models with censored data
In this article, we consider a proportional odds model, which allows one to examine the extent to which covariates interact nonlinearly with an exposure variable for analysis of right-censored data. A local maximum likelihood approach is presented to estimate nonlinear interactions (the coefficient functions) and the baseline function. The proposed estimators are shown to be consistent and asymptotically normal with the asymptotic variance estimated consistently. Also, we develop local profile likelihood ratio method to construct confidence region of coefficient functions. Simulation studies are conducted to evaluate the performances of the proposed estimators, and compare the normal approximation based confidence regions and local profile likelihood ratio based confidence regions. The method is illustrated with Stanford heart transplant data.
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Volume (Year): 109 (2012)
Issue (Month): C ()
Pages: 168-189
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SSAB AB engages in the manufacture and sale of steel products worldwide. Divisions The company's divisions include SSAB Strip Products; SSAB Plate; SSAB North America; Tibnor; and Other. SSAB Strip Products The Strip Products Division manufactures strip products in the Nordic region. It also offers advanced high-strength steels (AHSS) in Europe. Its production capacity amounts to approximately 3 million tonnes per year. Advanced high-strength steels can be used in various applications to reduce weight and extend product life. Hot-rolled advanced high-strength steel is used in the automotive industry, primarily for trucks, and in areas, such as cranes and containers. Cold-rolled advanced high-strength steel is used primarily for safety components in the automotive industry. Galvanized extra and ultra high-strength steels are used in applications that require a level of anti-corrosion protection. Ordinary strip steel is used primarily within the engineering, construction, and automotive industries. Its product range includes strip in thicknesses ranging from 0.1 mm to 16 mm, with a maximum width of 1,600 mm. The products are marketed under the Domex, Docol, Dogal, Dobel, and Prelaq brands. SSAB Plate The SSAB Plate Division manufactures quenched steels, which are used in construction machinery and mining equipment, as well as in the manufacture of cranes, bridges, and offshore equipment. The division's main products are abrasion-resistant steels and construction steels, sold respectively under the Hardox and Weldox brands, as well as Toolox and Armox. SSAB North America The SSAB North America Division supplies plate in North America. The operations include two steel works in which production is based on scrap metal with integrated rolling, one in Montpelier, Iowa and one in Mobile, Alabama. The operations also include three cutting lines in Texas and Minnesota in the United States; and Ontario, Canada. The two steel mills have an annual total capacity of approximately 2.5 million tonnes of crude steel. SSAB North America's customer base includes steel service centers and OEM's (original equipment manufacturers). Within the energy sector, its customers are windpower plants. Tibnor The Tibnor Division engages in steel distribution in the Swedish market. Tibnor's traditional core business lies within the areas of steel and stainless steel in which industry is supplied with a range of commercial steels, strip products, plate, specialty steels, pipes, and stainless steel. In addition, the business operations include the sale of non-ferrous metals and building-related steel products. Tibnor's foreign subsidiaries supply the customers in their respective countries with a selection of steel and non-ferrous metal products. Tibnor offers resources for pretreatment of materials, such as splitting and cutting to size of strip steel at its own facility in Gothenburg. Tibnor supplies reinforcement products to construction companies. Other The Other Division includes Plannja, Lulekraft, Oxelosunds Hamn, and SSAB Finance Belgium. Plannja: Plannja is wholly owned by the company and produces building sheet, with a geographic focus on the Nordic and Baltic regions, as well as central and eastern Europe. The product range consists of a range of flat and profiled building sheet, sheet roofing tiles, rainwater run-off goods, and sandwich-type wall panels. Plannja's products are based overwhelmingly on metal-coated strip steel. Lulekraft: Lulekraft operates a combined heat and power plant in Lulea and is owned by the company (50%) and the municipality of Lulea (50%). Oxelosunds Hamn: Oxelosunds Hamn conducts port operations in Sweden. Oxelosunds Hamn is owned by the company (50%) and the municipality of Oxelosund (50%). SSAB Finance Belgium: The wholly-owned subsidiary, SSAB Finance Belgium, is in development stage that would engage in currency trading, liquidity management, and other financial operations. Markets The company's export sales from Sweden are focused primarily on Europe. It also has operations in North America, Asia, and rest of the world. Acquisitions In 2008, the company acquired Plannja SRL, the Romanian distribution company. Dispositions In 2008, the company's subsidiary, SSAB North America, sold its tubular business. The sale covered 13tubular mills, the steel mills in Regina and Koppel, which supply the tubular business, as well as related scrap metal plants. Competition The company's main competitors within advanced high-strength steel are ThyssenKrupp and ArcelorMittal. Its main competitors within the quenched steels sector are ThyssenKrupp and Dillingen in Europe, as well as ArcelorMittal and Algoma in North America. SSAB North America's competitors include Nucor Steel, Inc., ArcelorMittal, Essar Steel Algoma Inc., and the Evraz group. Tibnor competes with BE-Group and Ruukki. History SSAB AB was founded in 1978.
ssab ab-a shares (SSABA:Stockholm)
Contact Info
Klarabergsviadukten 70, D6
PO Box 70
Stockholm, 101 21
Phone: 46 84 54 57 00
Fax: 46 84 54 57 25www.ssab.com
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To contact SSAB AB-A SHARES, please visit www.ssab.com. Company data is provided by Capital IQ. Please use this form to report any data issues.
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I use W3TC to combine and minify the CSS files for my site. We recently changed a CSS file, and minify.php rebuilt its results but didn't change the ?file parameter, and so browsers had the old version cached and wouldn't update. We have "Prevent caching of objects after settings change " checked, but it won't append a query string to files that already have them, as in the case of the combined CSS file.
Is there a way to have the combined CSS file update after a change?
In the meantime, I have w3tc's minify option disabled, passing that burden off to Cloudflare instead, which achieves the behavior we want without combining. Still, we'd prefer to be able to combine the CSS files if possible.