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Not all products are available in all regions.
The CP44 vibratory soil compactor has a durable Cat® power train, field-proven hydraulic and vibratory systems and the world's largest and most dedicated dealer support system.
Powered by the 75 kW (100 hp) Cat® C4.4 engine with ACERT™ Technology, the CP44 provides exceptional performance on flat or aggressive terrain. This machine is suitable for many applications from site preparation to compacting sub-bases for parking lots or roadways and is ideal for water and sewer trench work.
The pod-style vibratory system delivers superior compactive force while offering serviceability advantages.Learn More
Pod-style Weight Housing
The pod-style weight housing is assembled and sealed at the factory to ensure cleanliness, longer bearing life and easier field exchange or service.
Dual Amplitude
The dual amplitude works efficiently in a wider range of applications. Selection is controlled from the operator's station.
Vibratory Frequency
The CP44 has a vibratory frequency of 31.9 Hz (1914 vpm) for maximum compaction results. An optional variable frequency control allows frequency to be better matched to varying job conditions.
Large Heavy-duty Bearings
Large heavy-duty bearings for the eccentric weight shaft allow higher frequency for greater force.
3 year/3000 hour
The 3 year/3000 hour vibratory bearing lube service interval reduces maintenance.
Isolation Mounts
The heavy-duty isolation mounts on the CP44 allow more force to be transmitted to the ground and less vibration to the drum yoke.
Reliable dual amplitude selection and innovative design of the proprietary eccentric weights ensures precise performance.Learn More
Positive Amplitude Selection
Positive amplitude selection is accomplished when the spherical steel shot is repositioned inside the hollow eccentric weight. Direction of weight shaft rotation determines amplitude level.
Simplified Control
Control is simplified from the operator's station with a selection switch on the operator's console.
The proprietary eccentric weights offer high reliability since there is no chance of the high-strength spherical steel shot welding together. System reliability is superior to swinging mechanical weights and is also quieter during starts and stops.
Service Life
The proprietary eccentric weights offer long service life. There are no heavy weights to slam together and no metal fragments to contaminate the bearing lubrication system.
This high-tech four cylinder engine provides outstanding durability, performance, reliability and operating economy while producing less emissions. The C4.4 engine is certified to meet U.S. EPA Tier 3 and European EU Stage IIIa emissions standards. Learn More
ACERT Technology
ACERT Technology combines proven systems with innovative new technologies to precisely shape the combustion process, providing more complete combustion of fuel and lower emissions.
More Robust Block and Components
The C4.4 has been built with a thicker engine block and more robust components, improving durability and reliability while helping to keep noise levels low. The robust design also contributes to improved cold-weather starting performance.
Engine Oil Cooler
The cooling package has been increased in size by 25%, reducing oil deterioration and varnishing of internal components as well as operating temperatures. Engine oil change interval is every 500 hours.
Low-mounted Oil Pump
The positioning of the oil pump provides quick start-up lubrication, ensuring less engine wear and a longer engine life.
Engine Certified to Meet Emissions Standards
The C4.4 engine is certified to meet U.S. EPA Tier 3 and European EU Stage IIIa emissions standards.
The dual pump propel system offers high tractive effort and gradeability for outstanding productivity and machine control in demanding environments.Learn More
Dual Propel Pumps
The dual propel pumps provide separate, balanced flow to the rear wheel axle and the drum drive motors. Provides high gradeability and increases tractive effort in loose or poor underfoot conditions.
Limited Slip Differential
The limited slip differential provides balanced tractive effort and smooth torque transfer to both rear wheels.
Two Speed Ranges
The dual pump propel system offers two speed ranges for versatile operation. Low speed range for vibratory operation and maximum torque when climbing grades. High speed range moves the machine quickly over longer distances.
Flushing Valves
Flushing valves in each propel circuit help keep hydraulic oil cool and clean for maximum system efficiency.
The padfoot drum allows the CP44 to perform well in cohesive or semi-cohesive material. The drum features 108 pads with a pad height of 90 mm (3.5") arranged in a chevron pattern. Steel drum scrapers effectively remove excess material that clings to the drum.Learn More
The exclusive dual pump propel system provides superior performance, machine control and excellent grade climbing capability.Learn More
Two Propel Pump System
The two propel pump system has dedicated pumps to drive the heavy-duty, high-torque rear wheel and drum motors independently. Should the drum or wheels begin to spin, there is always hydraulic flow to the non-spinning motor, allowing continuous tractive effort. This is especially useful in loose underfoot conditions.
Controllability is another feature of dual propel pumps. The operator is able to stop, maintain machine position and change directions while on a grade.
The CP44 provides high productivity when working on more demanding grades. These machines are very effective in trench applications.
The sloped fiberglass hood design provides good service access and exceptional operator visibility.Learn More
Visibility to the tire edges and rear of machine is exceptional. The sloped hood allows the operator to see obstacles measuring 1 meter (3' 3") high located 1 meter (3' 3") to the rear of the machine. Excellent visibility in all directions increases productivity when working near obstructions or maneuvering around the job site.
Lockable Engine Hood
The lockable engine hood opens quickly and easily with the use of gas struts to provide good access to the engine, cooling system and all service points.
Sound Levels
Low sound levels for the operator and the ground crew due to the engine hood and cooling air flow through the rear mounted radiator.
The platform of the CP44 is equipped with a ROPS/FOPS canopy and is enclosed by handrails and features foot rests for sure footing and support when working on a grade.Learn More
Working Environment
The open platform of the CP44 offers a spacious and comfortable working environment with all controls, levers, switches and gauges positioned to maximize productivity.
The open platform offers unrestricted visibility to the drum and tire edge and to the side and rear of the machine.
Handrails and Foot Rests
The platform is enclosed by handrails and features foot rests for sure footing and support when working on a grade.
Standard Equipment
Standard equipment includes two front-facing and two rear-facing working lights, handrails with footrests, a lockable vandalism guard and a rear view mirror.
The operator's station is ergonomically designed for maximum operator productivity while offering excellent visibility and unmatched comfort.Learn More
Steering Console and Operational Gauges
The steering console and operational gauges are infinitely adjustable within the tilt range to the desired position of the operator. Entire console tilts for simple entrance and exit.
Single Lever Control
Single lever control for propel and vibratory On/Off provides simple and low effort operation. A padded adjustable wrist rest helps reduce operator fatigue.
The comfortable and durable seat has adjustable fore/aft position, bottom cushion height, suspension stiffness and flip-up arm rests.
Isolated Operator's Station
The operator's station is isolated with heavy-duty rubber mounts reducing machine vibration transmitted to the operator.
Floor Mat
A floor mat helps further isolate the operator from machine vibration and noise.
The ROPS/FOPS Cab is spacious and comfortable, with large windows and remarkable visibility. Robust air conditioning provides remarkable comfort. Excellent ergonomics and low sound levels keep the operator alert and in control.Learn More
Cab Environment
The cab is a spacious and comfortable work environment that includes large windows, more interior room with storage areas, a cup holder, better ergonomics and low noise levels.
Full-length Glass Windshield
The full-length glass windshield provides exceptional visibility to the drum and optional leveling blade.
Mirrors and Lights
Included with the cab are two exterior rear view mirrors, front and rear working lights and cab lift cylinder.
Windshield Wipers
Windshield wipers on the front and rear windows allow good vision in adverse conditions.
Side Windows
Side windows slide open for cross ventilation.
Climate Control
The cab is climate controlled with standard heater/defroster as well as air conditioning to keep the working environment comfortable.
The Leveling Blade option increases machine versatility and utilization, plus greatly enhances productivity.Learn More
Expands Versatility and Utilization
The leveling blade expands the machines versatility and utilization for use in material knockdown, site leveling, trench backfilling and light dozing.
Blade Control
Leveling blade control is controlled by the operator's right foot to provide simple, one-handed operation of machine propel, steering and blade functions simultaneously.
Power and Tractive Efforct
The dual propel pumps provide plenty of power and tractive effort for effective blade use without drum spin.
No special permits are required for transporting with a blade width of 2.12 m (6' 11").
Cutting Edges
Two-piece reversible and replaceable cutting edges increase edge service life and reduce replacement costs.
High Mounting Point
The high mounting point provides superior curb and obstruction clearance.
The CP44 Soil Compactor provides exceptional reliability and serviceability that you've come to expect from Caterpillar.Learn More
Visual Indicators
Visual indicators allows easy check of radiator coolant, hydraulic oil tank level and air restriction indicator.
Operator's Station Tilts Forward
The operator's station tilts forward to allow convenient access to the hydraulic pumps.
Rear Mounted Cooling System
The rear mounted cooling system provides easy access for cleaning. The hydraulic oil cooler tilts rearward for additional access to the radiator.
Sealed-for-life Bearings
Sealed-for-life bearings in the articulation hitch never need to be greased.
500 hour engine oil change interval.
Vibratory System Lubrication Service
A 3 year/3000 hour vibratory bearing lube service interval reduces maintenance.
Hydraulic System Oil Service
A 3 year/3000 hour Hydraulic System oil service interval reduces maintenance.
Quick Connect Hydraulic Test Ports
Quick connect hydraulic test ports simplify system diagnostics.
Ecology Drains
Provide a method to drain fluids that is more environmentally safe. They are included on the radiator, engine oil pan, hydraulic tank and fuel tank.
S•O•S (Scheduled Oil Sampling) ports
S•O•S ports allow for simple fluid collection of engine oil, engine coolant and hydraulic oil.
Secure Hose Routing
Hose routing is secured with polyethylene routing blocks to reduce rubbing and increase service life.
Electrical System Integrity
Nylon braided wrap and all-weather connectors ensure electrical system integrity. Electrical wiring is color-coded, numbered and labeled with component identifiers to simplify troubleshooting.
Maintenance-free Cat Batteries
Maintenance-free Cat batteries are mounted in the rear of the machine and are protected by the engine hood. Cat batteries are specifically designed for maximum cranking power and protection against vibration.
Product Link Wire-ready
The CP44 is Product Link wire-ready. The Cat Product Link System (PLS) ensures maximum uptime and minimum repair costs by simplifying tracking of equipment fleets. The system provides automatic machine location and hour updates. The system can be obtained through your local Cat dealer.
WesTrac and our power systems partners Energy Power Systems Australia (EPSA), provide WA, NSW and ACT with Caterpillar Electric Power Systems, such as generator sets, automatic transfer switches (ATS), uninterruptible power supply (UPS) and switchgears.
EPSA is the Australian Dealer responsible for the sale of new and used Caterpillar engines and design of the installations.
WesTrac provides build-up, installation, servicing, repair and management of power generation plant and equipment, as well as industrial, truck and marine engines and transmissions – 24/7.
It is a formidable combination, providing an unrivalled service – proven reliable Cat power and superb service and parts supply.
You will find the strategic WesTrac/EPSA alliance at work throughout WA, NSW and ACT wherever prime or standby power is required.


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March 11, 2008
San Luis Obispo, Calif. - UC Santa Barbara (8-6) scored six times in the top of the eighth, but lost 15-6 to Big West Conference foe Cal Poly (6-6) Tuesday night at Baggett Stadium. The Gauchos allowed season-high 15 runs on 19 hits as the Mustangs win evened the non-conference season series between the rivals at one game apiece.
The Mustangs scored a pair of runs in the bottom of the first to get things started early. A Logan Schafer sac-fly to centerfield scored Luke Yoder for the first run of the game. Brent Morel followed with an RBI double to left center, scoring Pat Pezet to put the Mustangs ahead, 2-0.
A run in the second and three in the fourth put the Mustangs ahead 6-0 after four innings. UCSB freshman Greg Davis, coming off the first win of his career in his first outing ever as a Gaucho, was bounced in the third inning. Davis allowed three runs on six hits, striking out one and walking three.
A nine-run fifth inning for Cal Poly bust the game wide open. The Mustangs batted around scoring nine runs on two walks, two hit batsmen, two singles, three doubles, and one triple. Ryan Lee started the scoring with an RBI double, bringing home Wes Dorrell. Three two-RBI hits from Adam Melker, Dorrell, and Kyle Smith, respectively highlighted the Mustang fifth. After the dust had settled, the score sat at 15-0, it was all the Mustangs would need to hold onto the victory.
The Gauchos made things interesting scoring six times in the eighth. David Klein led off the inning with a walk, followed by a Robby Cummings single to right center. Gunnar Terhune's RBI single in the ensuing at-bat scored Klein to put the Gauchos on the board, 15-1. Eric Oliver continued the scoring, doubling down the right field line to score Cummings from third. Left fielder Mike Zuanich joined the hit parade singling to left field on a 1-2 pitch to score Terhune. Shane Carlson then followed with a two-RBI double to right center, plating Zuanich and Oliver to cut the Mustang lead to 15-5. John DeAlba capped off the Gaucho outburst lacing an RBI single to left center, scoring Carlson from second.
Neither team would score in the following frame, as Mark DeVincenzi induced Matt McColgan to popup to end the game.
Cal Poly starter Jared Eskew pitched a four-inning one-hitter to earn the win. Eskew moved to 1-1 on the year, striking out three and walking one.
Carlson's double in the eighth extending the shortstop's hitting streak to 14 games. Carlson has hit safely in all 14 games to begin the year. Terhune went 2-for-2 with one run scored and an RBI. Oliver and Zuanich each went 1-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI, respectively.
Jesse Meaux and Matt Wade combined to throw 3.1 innings of scoreless relief, striking out three and walking none. Melker led the Mustangs going 4-for-5 with two runs scored and three RBI. Dorrell added three RBI in a 2-for-4 effort. Pezet was 2-for-4 with two runs scored and two RBI, while Morel was 2-for-3 with two runs scored and two RBI.
The Gauchos resume play at Caesar Uyesaka Stadium at 2:00 p.m. on Friday as they host Southern Utah for a four-game weekend series. Ace Mike Ford gets the ball for the Gauchos in hopes of winning his second game of the year.

subset: commoncrawl


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A post by NACE Guest Blogger, Pamela Weinberg
Website: www.pamelaweinberg.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/pamelaweinberg/
Twitter: @pamelaweinberg
Most of us have seen corporate mission statements when we have researched employers and industries. Typically corporate mission statements encompass the values of a company; their goals, and their future plans for growth.
Not many of us have seen or created a "Personal Mission Statement," however, but we all should, as should our students. How helpful to have a short paragraph to guide us in our careers; keep us moving forward and on track. A mission statement not only states your goals, but also lays out the steps needed to reach those goals.
A personal mission statement should be brief. Three to five sentences are sufficient. Tack it up on your computer; save it on your Iphone, stick on your refrigerator. Your mission statement is meant to guide you in your day-to-day activities and help you stay on track to meet your short-term and long-term goals. A mission statement is as useful for job seekers as it is for those who are happily employed. Some tips to keep in mind when creating one:
- Make sure your mission statement is personal; it should sound like "you" and be authentic.
- Include skills, character traits, and knowledge that you consider important and would want a potential employer or client to know about you.
- Describe what you want to focus on and who/what you want to become in this stage of your career.
Sample Mission Statement
Brian W, Graduate Student, Engineering
"To have a successful career at a software engineering company which will utilize my technology skills, leadership abilities and provide a platform for my continued career growth. I will do this by continuing my education in technology; attending conferences in my field to network; and by obtaining a research position at my university within the next year."
A personal mission statement is not meant to be stagnant. It is meant to change and grow as you do. Once goals are met and milestones are reached, your mission statement should be revised to included new goals. Your statement should help propel you forward in your job search or career.


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Wenatchee, Wa — What started out 10 years ago as one franchisee's competition among his members has turned into the Gold's Gym Challenge, a competition among 14 Gold's Gym franchisees.
Blair McHaney, owner of Gold's Gym in Wenatchee, WA, started the competition 10 years ago with 116 members at his club. Rather than focusing on weight loss, McHaney made the contest about creating a fun and competitive atmosphere for his local community and informing the community about the benefits of fitness. Recently, other Gold's Gym franchisees asked to become a part of the challenge, which has turned the program into a healthy inter-community competition.
"The purpose of this is to use it as an igniter to spark people interested in fitness so that they can change fitness from a goal to making it a lifetime value," McHaney says.
This year, 500 people from McHaney's facility are participating in the 12-week competition, which began last month. They are competing against an average of 150 to 200 members at each of 40 other Gold's Gyms across the country.
At the end of the 12 weeks, each franchisee assembles his or her top 10 finishers (five males and five females from five age categories) into a team that is then judged by a panel of franchisees, vendors and individuals at Gold's Gym International. Judging is based on before and after photos, body composition results and essays written by the participants.
The prize for members is cash$42,000 for the winning team and $14,000 for individual winners. The prize for the franchisees is possible higher retention of new and existing members.
About 257 of the 500 challenge participants at McHaney's club are new members this year, and they've brought in about 130 additional members — spouses or friends who are not participating in the challenge but who are joining to support the participant, McHaney says.
This year's competition will increase McHaney's monthly drafts by close to $8,000, he says. That number is net of cancellations for the same period.
In past competitions, 57 percent of participants have finished by having their after-photo taken. However, that doesn't mean that the other 43 percent stopped exercising. About 87 percent of participants are still exercising at the club at the end of the challenge. McHaney has not tracked members beyond the 12 weeks to determine their long-term retention rate.
McHaney charges competition participants a $75 entry fee on top of their joining fee. The money goes to the prize pools for local winners and the national winners, and to pay for staff time.
Many of the participants at McHaney's facility sign up and pay for personal training or group training sessions.
"It does run our personal training department a bit ragged," McHaney says. "This has been our biggest issue this year — we don't have enough trainers. We have four full-time and five part-time personal trainers. We haven't been able to keep up with the demand for personal training."
After this year's competition, McHaney plans to get together with the 13 other participating franchisees to see what worked and what didn't.
"Now we'll be able to evolve the concept with input from a lot more people," he says. He encourages other Gold's Gym franchisees to join up, but he cautions that the challenge isn't for everyone.
"It's a lot of work. Your culture needs to be aligned with this promotion," he says.


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We poked some fun at the Cleveland Browns when it was announced that career backup quarterback Brian Hoyer had been named the team's starter, but Hoyer's been balling today. He's followed up his good-but-not great debut with a solid first half against the Bengals.
Hoyer began the day by completing his first eight pass attempts and leading the Browns on a 12-play, 95-yard scoring drive that ended with a beautiful touchdown pass to tight end Jordan Cameron. Hoyer's been making quick, smart passes all day, and hasn't been afraid to throw deep. The result of that fearlessness has been plays like the one above, a 33-yard strike to Josh Gordon.
At the end of the first half, Hoyer's line is 16-24 for 178 yards and a touchdown. He ended the half by leading his team into field goal range with an effective two-minute drill—a drive that came without the benefit of any timeouts—but Billy Cundiff shanked his attempt.
And it's not just Hoyer that's playing well. The Browns defense stood strong on two Bengals drives that reached deep into the red zone, and has held the Bengals to 114 yards of total offense. So, um, go Browns?


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Johnson City Pharmacist Sentenced To Serve Five Years Probation
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. – Thomas Patrick Rowan, 59, of Johnson City, was sentenced on September 11, 2013, by the Honorable J. Ronnie Greer, U.S. District Court Judge, to serve five years on federal supervised probation and a fine of $2,500. Rowan also agreed to a $75,000 forfeiture as a result of his conviction.
Rowan was charged in an information in April 2013, and pleaded guilty on April 30, 2013, to one count of obtaining oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, by fraud and one count of providing false or fraudulent information in reports concerning controlled substance inventories. Rowan was a pharmacist who owned and operated pharmacies in Johnson City and Fall Branch at the time of these offenses.
"Our office takes all cases involving oxycodone and other prescribed controlled substances very seriously. Prescription controlled substance abuse is an epidemic in east Tennessee and we work aggressively to ensure that the controlled substance laws are enforced," stated U.S. Attorney William C. Killian.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration Diversion Division were involved in this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys M. Suzanne Kerney-Quillen and Helen C.T. Smith represented the United States.


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Aromatherapy with Lavender
Scented candle with natural lavender blossoms and fragrance. This candle will bring a bit of the fragrances of the Bulgarian Rose Valley into your home. It will fill it up with the pleasant, relaxing aroma of lavender essential oil.
ATTENTION: Keep out of the reach of children! Never leave the candle unattended!


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Baked Oatmeal, using leftover oatmeal
-3 cups leftover oatmeal
-1 cup milk
-1/2 c. granola
-sliced apples, peaches, bannanas (slice lengthwise), or other fruit of your choice. Berries are also fine
-2 tbs. butter
Preheat oven to 350. Combine oatmeal, milk, and honey, stirring until combined. Pour into oiled or sprayed 9″ pan. Top with granola. Lay fruit gently on top of granola, then cut butter into small squares and sprinkle on top. Bake for 20-30 minutes, depending on how brown you want it. Serve with whole-grain toast.


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Oct. 13, 2007
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. - The MIT women's volleyball team did not drop a game as it captured its third consecutive MIT Quad Tournament title on Saturday. Colby-Sawyer College finished second, with Greensboro College placing third and Eastern Connecticut State University taking fourth place. Katrina Ellison was selected to the All-Tournament Team while Katie Rowe was named the Tournament MVP.
The Engineers (25-1) opened the day with a 30-19, 30-19, 30-18 win over Colby-Sawyer. Barden Cleeland posted the best hitting performance of the match, connecting on 10 of her 15 errorless attempts for a.667 percentage, and added six blocks. Rowe contributed 12 kills and a .435 hitting percentage while Ellison tallied 10 kills and a .438 hitting performance. Rose Zhong notched nine kills and nine digs as Jenny Li recorded nine kills and six blocks. Carrie Buchanan led the way with 19 digs and three aces while Amanda Morris distributed 46 assists.
MIT's efficient hitting continued in the second match versus Eastern Connecticut (30-15, 30-18, 30-19). Rowe recorded 12 kills on 21 attempts without an error (.571) as Cleeland picked up nine kills and a .615 hitting percentage. Emily Obert contributed seven kills on 12 errorless swings for a .583 hitting performance. Zhong led the way with 12 digs and three aces as Rowe paced the Cardinal and Gray with four blocks. Buchanan and Lindsay Hunting collected 11 and nine digs, respectively. Morris and Cassy Piela shared setting duties, finishing with 23 and 12 assists.
In the finale against Greensboro (30-26, 30-18, 30-23), Ellison paced the Engineers with 13 kills to go along with a .500 hitting percentage and four blocks. Zhong chipped in 11 digs and nine kills as Cleeland bolstered MIT's attack with eight kills. Hunting earned five aces while Li contributed seven kills and three aces. Buchanan anchored the back row with 18 digs as Rowe registered a team-high six blocks. Morris wrapped up the day with 38 assists.


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December 6, 2013: "Leveraging Your Life Experience: advancing your career in the mental health field"
Registration now open!!!
Register online here
November 9, 2012: "Youth in Our Community; From Risk to Resilience"
October 19, 2012: "Promotores: Life, Health & Happiness"
November 4, 2011: "Finding the Balance in Caregiving"
October 28, 2011: "Current Considerations in Entry-Level Mental Health Work; What's Hot? What's Not?"
October 7, 2011: "Advancing Your Agency with Promotores"
Spring 2010: "Binational Border Issues Conference"
October 24th, 2009: "Sharing Our Binational Resources"
Summer 2009: "Passport to Life Career and Education Expo"
Summer 2009: "Nurturing Healthy Communities through Youth/Adult Partnerships"
Spring 2009: "Annual San Diego Association for the Education of the Young Child"
Fall 2008: Mini-Conference: "Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others"
Spring 2008: "Conference for International Relief Organizations" (CIRO) Spring 2009: "Conference for Peace Education and Activism" (CPEA)
Summer 2007: "Sustain Your Strength"
Summer 2005: "Valuing our Youth"
Contact: Veronica Ortega, Ph.D.
San Diego City College Phone: (619) 388-3100
Email: email@example.com


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Daniel Nazer
Daniel is a Senior Staff Attorney on the Electronic Frontier Foundation's intellectual property team, focusing on patent reform. Prior to joining EFF, Daniel was a Residential Fellow at Stanford Law School's Center for Internet and Society. He also practiced at Keker & Van Nest, LLP, where he represented technology clients in patent and antitrust litigation. Before that, Daniel was a legal fellow with the Drug Law Reform Project of the American Civil Liberties Union. Daniel clerked for Justice Susan Kenny of the Federal Court of Australia and Judge William K. Sessions, III of the U.S. District of Vermont. Daniel has a B.A. in Philosophy from the University of Western Australia, an M.A. in philosophy from Rutgers, and a J.D. from Yale Law School.
Daniel is the author of The Tragicomedy of the Surfer's Commons (9 Deakin L. Rev. 655) and Conflict and Solidarity: The Legacy of Jeff D. (17 Geo. J. Legal Ethics 499). When he is not working, Daniel can be found surfing at San Francisco's Ocean Beach.


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Find schools and get information on the program that's right for you.
Powered by Campus Explorer
Just before WW I she went to New York to attend Columbia Teachers College. There a friend showed some of her work to an art gallery owner specialising in unconventional artists. He was impressed and included some of her paintings in an exhibit. She was outraged, but soon they became friends. They were married in 1924. She was 37, he was 60. Her name was Georgia O'Keeffe; his, Alfred Stieglitz. In 1929, she began spending summers in New Mexico and winters in New York, bringing to the big city Southwestern images painted on an immense scale. As her work developed, her hot New Mexico landscapes, animal sculls, and enormous florals began to abstract into a female iconography that brought her fame both in New York and New Mexico. Having a top New York gallery owner/husband to promote her work didn't hurt either.
After Stieglitz died in 1946, Georgia O'Keeffe chose New Mexico as her permanent home, gravitating to the "back to nature" philosophy long before it became a 1970s fad. With the advent of the women's movement also in the 70's, O'Keeffe's work was recognised for its latent sexual content though she never acknowledged such elements in her paintings of massive, increasingly abstract open blossoms. She flirted with abstraction quite often, but even her most non-representational work always remained grounded in some reference to reality. Her juxtaposition of positive and negative spaces was a recurring theme in much of the painting done late in her life. Working well into her eighties, she aspired to passing the century mark. She died in 1986. She was 98.
Contributed by Lane, Jim12 March 1998


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You may personalize your wearing style with this Stylish Lace Crochet Flower Hollow Out Camisole. This camisole is very comfortable to wear and touch with the good quality material. Special hollow out , lace and crochet flower decorated design makes you cool and sweet,also keep you looking fashion forward with this unique lace tank top. It's so pretty and decent you can wear it anywhere, from the gym to your favorite club. It is a perfect gift for someone special or treats for you. Innovative design suits you to wear in every occasion. This camisole will become a staple in your wardrobe. So, do not miss it!
- Unique hollow out lace will easily make a good impression to others
- Made of good material, durable and comfortable to wear
- Pure color, so easy for matching other attire,a good collection to your wardrobe
- Stay at the forefront of style with this lace crochet flower decorated camisole
- It is a perfect gift for someone special or treats for you
- Suit you to wear in every occasion
- This cheap camisole is a beautiful decoration for you in cold days
- It is very suitable and cool for wearing in summer
- It is very convenient to wear and easy to wash
- Color: Black
- Size: Free
- Length: 54 cm / 21.3 inch
- Bust: 68 - 90cm / 26.8 - 35.43 inch
- Material: Cotton blended & Lace
- Your purchase will be shipped right away following cleared payment
- 1 x Camisole
- Not include other matches
- Since the size above is measured by hand, the size of the actual item you received could be slightly different from the size above.
- Please be reminded that due to lighting effects, monitor's brightness / contrast settings etc, there could be some slight differences in the color tone of the pictures and the actual item.


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Long time since I updated this. Basically Chapter 2 did occur and it was a great success, I played Xenkans and was utterly slaughtered in 5 turns, while I had a friend play the Praetorians.
As for the Chapter 2, I took some pictures, but didn't take notes on the events so couldn't do a full write-up, so here are a few pictures and what i can remember.
The battlefield was a 'T' shaped road with a building on one side.
Dreddy was fielded with the 'Holy shit peach-lovers won't be happy' option.
Stuff died
Jump infantry to the rescue!
Sniping with a plasma shotgun proves an effective technique.
To quote J. Clarkson "I am the god of HELLFIRE!!!"
When this happened I couldn't stop shouting FUCK long enough to hold the camera straight.
OK, maybe time to re-write jump-infantry rules.....
That can only end hilariously...
Dead piles make me happy, even though mines the biggest.
Also there was use of the new scout rules, but I forgot to take picture of it, overall stuff was killed in various funny ways, dreddy died an honorable death with his last memory being the blood-splatter from a praetorian marine that got a little too close to his OTC.
I don't know when I'll get chapter 3 done, but I'll definitely get a much better battle report done with it. I'm expanding both armies so the next battle can be a little grander, and I'm changing rules for the Xekans to make them more Killy. I do know I'm going to have this next battle relate more to the current Immortal war.


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|2009-08-05, 10:22
|Link #82
See You En' Tee
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: England
Age: 31
|2009-08-05, 10:24
|Link #83
Part-time misanthrope
Join Date: Mar 2007
ahahaha I noticed the battle-freak looking woman from WBs crew first, she sure looks awesome. And the guy on the left has a nice gun.
I <3 Chain Chomps
Last edited by Eisdrache; 2009-08-05 at 10:40.
|2009-08-05, 10:31
|Link #85
To me, a Df is just a weapon...obviously stronger weapons give fighters an advantage. The top fighters will have the best weapons (and the best skill). Nothing wrong wiht that, is there?
|2009-08-05, 11:19
|Link #86
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2005
Actually, when I saw that VA with the dog head Garp came to my mind as well, but I noticed a couple of differences. For one thing, that guy's definitely a Zoan (look closely at the spread, you can see his claws). That, and he's dressed differently from Garp, anyhow (Garp's wearing a black shirt, while this guy's wearing a white shirt). Heh, I wonder what fruit this guy ate.... dog dog fruit, model dalmatian?
By the way, someone at AP pointed out that a couple of those VAs were shown during the Shichibukai meeting in chapter 234, specifically the guy standing between Onigumo and Doberman, and the guy with the glasses who's standing behind the former in the background. Boy, does Oda plan ahead, or what....?
And as for the commanders, so far my favorite designs are the top hat dude and the Chain Chomp guy. I'm still assuming that the chick with the gun is one of those nurses, but looking back at the spread from chap. 234, I can't tell which woman it would be. Oh well, I just can't wait to see these guys in action (too bad we have to wait 2 weeks before that happens, though )......
|2009-08-05, 13:28
|Link #87
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: LA CA
I hope what has been described in the spoiler is not even close to being the full chapter. In any case Ice man got pwned and the Admirals are on the attack before Doflamingo and also leaving out Red Dog. So I'm guessing Oda saving them two for 2 new world captains. I also thought some of newgates new world underling would take on Blackbeards neo pirate crew, when ever he arrived at this shindig. Meh time will tell.
Last edited by Master Mold; 2009-08-05 at 13:42.
|2009-08-05, 13:55
|Link #90
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: East Cupcake
Joking aside, I agree there is no reason to lambast Bleach in order to elevate One Piece (or vice versa, and throw Naruto in there just to be safe). The 2(3) titles are sufficiently different that adequetly comparing them beyond mere surface layer similarities is fruitless. True both are undergoing a "war" arc, but the wars, the participants, and the reason for war are so vastly different, nothing can really be gained by comparing the 2.
|2009-08-05, 14:02
|Link #91
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: LA CA
|2009-08-05, 14:10
|Link #92
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: East Cupcake
^If Blackbeard does appear it would probably be in at least 7 chapters, if not 10. It really depends on how much Oda wants these battles to rock. If he doesn't care about the opponents needlessly explaining their back stories or powers, having senseless flashbacks, or trying to buildup their individual powers too much, then Oda could make this a great chaotic battle in which character after character simply unleashes their might, and if they win they immediatly go on to the next opponent (this is what I am hoping for). But if he decides to focus on the characters, instead of the fighting, then I wouldn't expect to see Blackbeard (if he appears) for at least 10 chapters, if not more.
|2009-08-05, 14:22
|Link #93
Senior Member
I'm suprised that the admirals went right into battle, I was expecting them to sit it out for a while, but i guess this was necessary for them to take action to show off some of the WBP's abilites. I wonder what Hancock and Doflamingo will do.
|2009-08-05, 14:33
|Link #94
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2005
Yeah, I wouldn't expect to see Blackbeard reappear for a good while. We know that him and Shiryuu have some business to wrap up in Impel Down, and that could take a little time. He most likely won't come to Marineford until the war is all but over (along with his new Impel Down posse, of course! ).
By the way, I think this was pointed out before, but one of the commanders kinda resembles Scratchmen Apoo. Maybe he's even from the long arm tribe, just like the supernova....?
And again I think it's pretty cool to see that two of the VAs fighting in this war are those guys that Doflamingo was playing around with in chapter 234. I'm also glad to see that 4 out of the 5 Buster Call VAs are shown in the spread (where the heck IS Yamakaji, anyway? I don't think he's that dog Zoan dude, since he doesn't have a dark beard OR a cigar in his mouth.....). Seeing as the summary from before mentioned Garp and Tsuru join the VAs, I'm actually pretty interested in seeing old Tsuru in action, as well. In the past I didn't think she was a fighter since her intro stated that she was a tactician, but maybe she will turn out to be a martial artist or something after all (would be fitting, since her name means crane in Japanese ). Heh, I can't wait to see Garp's reaction when he sees Luffy entering Marineford with his group of prison escapees......
|2009-08-05, 15:13
|Link #95
Well Rounded Critic
Join Date: Sep 2007
Location: In a class of my own.
If MAtsumoto and Momo die, and Hitsugaya gets ripped to shreds, and Stark finally starts taking stuff seriously, then, I'll say okay. The MOST amazing scenario would be if Aizen was controlling the WHOLE thing by hypnotizing all of Soul Soc. AND the Vaizards into thinking they were fighting real opponents. Then, after they've expended everything they've got, the scales over their eyes are lifted and they see...all of the espada standing there, at full strength, and of course, my favourite scene in any cartoon: the villain smirking, and pronouncing his "game over" phrase.
THAT would be nothing short of WICKED. But it probably won't happen, anyway, so...
But MAN. Whitebeard has the whole thing COVERED. I mean: I don't even think Phenomenal can argue that the Whitebeard effect and his whole BEING right now is enough to blow away the other Big Two. I mean...wow. The guy just cracked the sky. That was nothing short of HISTORIC
Last edited by holypanl; 2009-08-05 at 15:24.
|2009-08-05, 18:37
|Link #97
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2005
A few more pics came out. We can see some of those New World captains fighting (looks like one of them's even a walrus Zoan, and there's another dude who has multiple arms.... another spider Zoan, maybe?). Sadly, I see no sign of Doma or Makugai. A couple more VAs are shown as well: Yamakaji and Komil (though they aren't shown fighting.... yet). And there's more pics of the scene where Marco deflects Kizaru's barrage of beams. Looking at it now, I don't think his power is flame-based at all. It looks like he spun himself to deflect Kizaru's beams, and the fire on his body is merely from the heat of the beams. So I guess that he has a defensive DF power like Jozu.......
|2009-08-05, 18:46
|Link #98
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2004
Yea i agree Mihawk should take down one of the big names to make zoro's dream look good, (as well as shanks fighting skills). However, the only big name on WB's side is.... whitebeard. Next comes Marco and then Jozu if the divisions captains are ranked based on power level.
I think when Mihawk said he wants to see how far he is from that man, he meant that hes never fought him before and just want to see how he compares to him. It doesn't necessarily mean hes stating that he's weaker.
It'd be interesting with Strongest Man with one of the strongest DF vs Strongest Swordsman with the strongest sword.
|2009-08-05, 18:59
|Link #99
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2007
|Thread Tools


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Ask 50 non-California farmers what SCCA stands for and the likely answer will be Sports Car Club of America. They would be half right. Ask 3,000 Western Growers what SCCA stands for and they'll tell you it's the initials for the Specialty Crop Competitiveness Act, the other half of the right answer.
The Specialty Crop Competitiveness Act was a seemingly miniscule piece of agricultural legislation Congress passed this year.
It was diminutive in the world of federal agriculture spending. The price tag on ag SCCA was a mere $270 million over a five-year period. It was made even smaller since the bill's passage did not guarantee funding. Western Growers now has to pry the cash out of a Congress and U.S. Treasury going deeper in debt every day.
A pair of lame duck, but politically savvy California Congressman, Doug Ose of Sacramento and Calvin Dooley of Hanford, sponsored the legislation drafted by Western Growers. When first introduced it carried a price tag of some $3 billion. It was pared down to gain congressional support. However, it is not the price of the program that is significant. What is important is that the legislation is on the books.
The bill is not a direct subsidy for so-called specialty crop growers. It calls for spending federal dollars on an array of programs. However, they all point to one thing, spending federal dollars to promote the increased consumption of vegetables, fruit and nuts fruit and make them more competitive in the world market. Sound familiar?
When Western Growers launched its campaign to draft and pass the legislation, it was supported primarily by Sun Belt states. However, in the end it had gained nationwide support with co-sponsorships from 122 members of Congress.
Not only that, it had the support of some of the most powerful commodity-state legislators, even though it was not a popular bill with major commodity groups who saw it as a threat to their federal farm bill funds. Wisely, SCCA supporters never publicly went after farm bill monies. Nevertheless, everyone is chasing the same federal dollars.
Passage of SCCA could have significant influence on the next farm bill because of the congressional support it garnered. The massive conservation title in the last farm bill also signals significant changes ahead. Many are predicting a dramatically different looking farm bill in the wake of federal debt and challenges of the U.S. federal farm program by the World Trade Organization. There is no question America needs its agriculture and agriculture will require significant financial support. Many in Congress realize that that support will require a dramatically different package than has been passed in recent farm bills.
When Western Growers announced SCCA, it was not given much of a chance. It is truly remarkable that it passed the House and even more amazing that it made it through the Senate in the final hours. Many in Western Growers were getting ready to go to battle anew in 2005 when the Senate surprisingly passed SCCA.
Passage of the nation's first major federal funding for the fresh produce industry was not only a testament to the tenacity of Western Growers, but it may signal a change in the way the federal government supports American agriculture.


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Connect to Congress: 'Matter(s) of concern' when it comes to security
WASHINGTON (Sinclair Broadcast Group) - Various members of the U.S. House of Representatives spoke with their Sinclair Broadcast Group stations on Wednesday, particularly on the big national security issues grabbing headlines this week.
At the forefront was bipartisan reaction to former national security adviser Michael Flynn's resignation, stemming from Flynn's contact with Russian officials before he assumed his post.
Members from both parties talked about the need to gather more information on the nature of the contact between Flynn and Russia.
"It's a matter of concern for anybody, regardless of the situation. We want to know what type of things take place," Rep. Brad Wenstrup, R-Ohio, told WKRC-TV. "I don't think it's inappropriate for there to be an incoming administration having some conversations with another government about what may be coming up, but it depends on what was actually discussed and that remains to be seen. I haven't seen anything on it at this point."
Florida Democratic Rep. Ted Deutch pointed to the information we've already learned via media reports surrounding the situation so far as a reason to look further into the matter.
"We learned that Gen. Flynn, the former national security adviser, was forced to resign after it became clear he lied to the vice president," Deutch told WPEC-TV. "I have joined with colleagues ... Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate who've called for a bipartisan investigation."
President Donald Trump took to Twitter Wednesday morning to criticize the intelligence leaks to the media.
Rep. Chris Stewart, R-Utah, a member of the House Permanent Select Intelligence Committee, believes such leaks are dangerous.
Stewart told KUTV, regarding the leaks, "You look at this and you can surmise important surveillance techniques and how we conduct some of our national intelligence efforts around that."
Another big security concern arising from over the weekend was North Korea's missile test.
Rep. Darin LaHood, R-Ill., addressed the situation in an interview for KHQA-TV, "This is a rogue country, a rogue dictator, and we need to increase our sanctions and make sure those are fortified."
LaHood also pointed out that the U.S. must put more pressure on North Korea's closest and most valuable partner, China.
Safety is something the area of West Palm Beach, Florida has seen in a different light these past three weekends. That's due to President Trump's frequent visits there. According to lawmakers representing the region, safety restrictions imposed are also leading to economic hardship.
"We always welcome with open arms the president of the United States, whoever that might be, and we want him or her to be safe," Rep. Lois Frankel, D-Fla., told WPEC-TV.
However, Frankel hinted that various industries in the area, particularly the airline industry, are feeling the pitch with the president's travel sometimes closing down airports and main roads.
"There is a very dramatic economic impact in terms of hundreds of thousands of dollars, maybe even running into the millions for some of these industries, especially the airline industry. They may go out of business," Frankel said. "For any president, a community is happy to accommodate once in a while. If it becomes a routine, it really then becomes a difficult situation."
Frankel and her South Florida colleague Deutch said one thing they are looking at is a way for local law enforcement to recoup some of the costs for protecting the president and his guests from the federal government.


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Physician loans for self-employed & 1099'd physicians
We've compiled this resource and videos below so that we can inform you and answer many of the questions that we receive from our self employed and 1099'd physicians. As a self employed or 1099 physician, you face more challenges than almost any other type of client that we work with, in that you're still relocating many times, you still have student loans many times. But, to stack on top of that, you've got self employed 1099'd income which creates a whole other level of challenges for mortgage lending. So, we'd like to educate you as much as we can and answer many questions with the videos below. Then we'd invite you to contact us for a compatibility interview. We spend 5 to 10 minues on the phone, we're going to ask you a couple of pointed questions to get a little better feel for your situation and then at the conclusion of that we can answer all your questions. And then if we feel like we're a good fit, we can invite you to move forward with the application process. The other thing you can do is if you watch the videos below and if you feel comfortable with moving forward right away, you can just complete the application, which you can find the link for at the bottom of this page, and then upload any documents and we can get you a financing proposal right away. Thanks fso much for tuning into us and we hope that we provide you with some real value and some information on financing for self employed physicians.
Why work with us- Solutions and Service
There are a lot of things that we do that are different from other loan officers and other mortgage programs, but I can boil it all down to two really key points. And that is solutions and service. Whether it's one of our specialized physician programs, an FHA program or a conventional program, we have loan officers, pre-underwriters and final underwriters who have all been specially trained to identify and understand the unique sets of situations and contracts that physicians have. So whether you are going into residency, starting a new position or you are a self employed 1099'd or in private practice, we understand those complexities and we know how to place your loan with the correct loan program that will find the right solution for you. And I think that is very different than most lenders. You'll find out right from the beginning we have a deeper understanding of your situation.
The second thing is service. We understand that many times when you are relocating or transitioning between jobs, there is a tremendous amount of stress to pack around the moving, the relocating, kids - it just adds stress to everything. And if we put a complicated loan process on top of that, it can be too much to bear. We understand that we need to get as much documentation up front, we need to have a very clear, fundamental understanding of what your situation is - where you're going into practice, what your new contract looks like and when you need to be in your new home. Then we deliver excellence in service in guiding you to that place.
So, what I'd invite you to do is to take a look around the website and find out what these resources have to offer. You're going to see that we have a unique section for residents, for new physicians or physicians relocating and self employed, or private practice. Go there, enjoy those resources and then I'd invite you to contact us. Thanks so much, we hope we have the opportunity to help you.
Am I better off renting or should I buy?
That's a really good and although I do love real estate and I think there's no better way to build wealth and tax deductions and all the benefits that come with owning a home, I think there is also a time when you should rent. The only way to really know how that should work for you is to identify the market and where you're buying, and then do a cost analysis. Take a look at what it's going to cost you to rent over the next coup;e of years and take into consideration that if you're in a booming economy or a hot economy that likely you're going to have rent raises over the next couple of years. And then take a look at where the real estate market is and then see what those payments look like. What are the payments on rent vs. the payments to buy and what are those costs going to look like over the amount of years that you expect to be in your home. And then I'd also encourage you to think about when you're buying a first residence or a primary residence that you're probably going to get one of the lowest interest rates in your entire life. And with that loan, it's expected that you live there for at least a year, but it is oftentimes a great opportunity to leverage that low interest loan into an investment after you move on, whether you're out of state or staying in the state moving into a larger home. But you can keep that as investment property. So, I'd love to counsel you and give you advice on that directly and if there's anything we can do to be of service helping you break down those different costs we'd be happy to do it. We'd invite you to reach out to us directly for more information.
How do I tell if a loan company is legit?
The only way to really know is to do your own research and due diligence in searching out a mortgage lender. One of the ways that I'd suggest you do that is get on Google. Start researching them. See if you can get a list of their past clients and get a deeper understanding for who it is they serve in their community. One of the things I'd love you to do is take a look at this testimonial from Utah Medical Association Financial Services where they've endorsed us as their preferred lender.
"We have been very impressed with Josh and his team. In fact, I first learned of Josh through one of my physician clients. The feedback was so outstanding that I decided to contact Josh directly and meet. Since that time, we have been extremely impressed with Josh?s knowledge, customer service and strong desire to continually do what is right for his clients. As a result, we have been referring our clients to Josh and the feedback continues to be exceptional!"
Jeff Zesiger, Vice President ? Utah Medical Association Financial Services
They've done that because we have a deeper understanding of the physicians that we serve and that we're more adept at identifying the unique challenges and making sure that we get you into your home without any surprises.
If you have any other questions about this we'd be more than happy to answer them for you. We'd love you to check out the testimonial.
What is the difference between a physician loan and a conventional loan?
That is a particularly important question for self employed or 1099'd physicians. The conventional loan guidelines will typically require that you are in practice and have two years tax returns filed as being self employed. Where a physician loan program will allow you to qualify with as little as one year's tax return and oftentimes that will just show six month worth of employment in private practice. There's also even some more liberal guidelines depending on what type of private practice you're in. If you are a 10 99'd employee who is essentially an employee of a practice but just receiving your income via 1099, then sometimes we can do it without even a single year's tax return being filed. Again, this is a very specific question, and when we start out with our initial interview we'll find out if we're compatible to work together, we'll ask all the right questions and then be able to give you a specific plan for moving forward on when we're able to help you. As always, we invite you to reach out to us, we'd be happy to answer any questions you have.
How much do I need for a down payment?
It really depends on the price point of home that you're going to be buying, and it depends where you are in your career. So, generally speaking, we have programs that will go up to 97% financing and that money can be gifted to you - you don't have to have accumulated that out of your own savings. And that loan will go up to a purchase price of about $430,000. And then if you're looking for a purchase price above and beyond that, say up to about $660,000, we'll have a loan program that jumps up to at least a 10% down payment. That loan program will require 5% of your own funds, and then 5% can be gifted from a family member. To directly answer your question on exactly how much down payment you'll need for your specific situation, we'd like to start out with a phone call. We call that our compatibility interview where we spend a few minutes finding out a little bit about your situation and we'll give you a proposal and give you exactly where your down payment would need to be. If you have any additional questions, as always, we invite you to reach out to us directly.
Can you get a construction loan with a physician loan?
Yes, but it's not going to give you as high of a loan to value as you would get with an existing construction. So, if you're building a home and you want 97% financing, we're going to struggle with that. If you're building a home and you have a challenge with student loans, maybe in deferment, or being new into private practice or being a 1099'd employee or maybe wanting to go into a 90% loan to value, then we have some solutions for you.
What you should know about this kind of product is they're going to be what's called a two time construction loan. So, you're going to close on the construction loan, that loan will typically be between 3 and 6 months while you build the home, and once the home is complete, we are going to refinance you to a long term construction. That's called a two time close as compared to a one time close. There are some lenders that allow one time closes, but none of them have any varying or bendable guidelines, specifically for physicians that I'm aware of. So a two time close, close on your construction loan, then refinance and get your long term financing. We do have some products available that will be more flexible, will bend the underwriting guidelines and are a little more liberal for physicians than they are for anyone else.
So this is a little bit more of a detailed conversation and there's many moving pieces when you talk about physicians relocating or starting new into practice and then the timing of two different loans. So, if you've got any questions about that, we'd invite you to email or contact us directly. We'd be happy to find out a little bit more about your situation and then give you some specific answers.
Are there really loans that you can put less than 20% down and not have mortgage insurance?
Yes, absolutely, we have those products. But, what you should know, this isn't a one size fits all solution. We have many different products and depending on your particular situation with your employment contract, your credit scores, the amount of money you have down, where your down payment is coming from, how much student loan debt you have, where you are in your repayment process with student loans - we have different solutions that will fit all different types of situations. So, where we start is with a compatibility interview. Usually takes five to ten, maybe fifteen minutes over the phone. We walk through your specific situation and all the factors that are in play.
If you are trying to get this done now, are working 70 hours straight through, have about ten minutes to catch some rest and don't have a spare minute to talk on the phone for a compatibility interview, then you can go down to the bottom of the page and fill out a loan application and get things rolling!
And then we're going to give you some advice on which loan program we think is best. Once we've done that, we usually do a cost breakdown or a cost analysis, where we're going to look at the difference between a physician loan product, an FHA product, and if you would qualify, a conventional product. And then we're going to make the best decision at that time on what the least costly solution for your financing is. So, we understand that you probably have a lot of questions about that and we'd be more than happy to answer them for you. We'd invite you to reach out to us directly.
I have massive student loans, will I qualify for a mortgage?
Don't let that scare you. We have solutions and many times have seen physicians that have student loans in excess of $250,000. Sometimes we've dealt with couples that are going through the process together and combined they have over $500,000 in student loans. So, don't let that scare you. We have solutions that will take care of that for you. And we have many programs, so we have a physician loan specific program, we have solutions even on the conventional and FHA side. Where this all starts and where we really understand your situation is we do a compatibility interview and during that interview we're going to find out a little bit more about you and then we're going to give you some specific solutions. So, we'd invite you to contact us directly. But don't be afraid if you've got student loans, there's more than likely a solution out there for you.
Do physician loans have higher closing costs & interest rate?
The answer is, it really depends. And it depends on your exact situation. So if you're asking a lender to go to a much higher loan to value like let's say you're in a situation where you want 97% financing and you don't want to pay mortgage insurance, then yes, typically you're going to have a higher interest rate. if you're in a situation where you're putting five, ten percent down, then no, your loan as a physician loan should actually be more cost efficient.
So, when you think about a physician loan, we're either going to be more liberal in the loan guidelines, meaning higher loan to values or higher loan amounts or excluding student loan payments. But with those more liberal guidelines, understand that typically there's a little bit of a higher cost.
Now what I encourage clients to do when we look at a loan is we do a side by side comparison. So, we'll look at a physician loan and the total costs associated - there's no mortgage insurance so we're just talking about closing costs and interest rate. And we'll maybe compare that with how an FHA loan would look or a conventional loan would look. Those loans are typically going to have mortgage insurance, interest rate and then closing costs, and we're going to compare those two and I'll do a total cost analysis so you can see the differences.
So, it depends where you are and what situation fits best for you, but on average, I would say that you are going to pay about 1/8, maybe 1/4 percent more for a physician loan that has very specific underwriting guidelines, more liberal underwriting guidelines that will help you get approved. As always, if you have more questions about that, we'd invite you to contact us directly.
Who is responsible for closing costs?
Who is responsible for paying closing costs?
That's all negotiable. What you should know is in a slow moving market, oftentimes buyers are able to ask the seller to cover their closing costs. That's just pretty much par for the course. When you see more of a fast moving market where there's very low inventory and the sellers kind of rule the roost, then oftentimes they are going to not pay your closing costs and you'll have to pay them yourself. And so how do yo upay them? There's a couple of different ways you can do that. You can do that in cash in addition to you down payment or you can actually roll it into your interest rate. So we've got several solutions there, where you say, "I'm probably only going to be in this house for 3 - 5 years" so maybe if we increase the intrest rate an eighth or a quarter percent, which typically is only going to kick up your payment between twenty five and fifty dollars a month, then you don't have to come to closing with tht additional money. So, we have solutions, we're more than happy to walk you through those depending on your specific situation. Don't let closing costs scare you, they are something we have a solution for. Thanks for watching and if you have any more questions we'd invite you to contact us directly.
How can I skip two month's mortgage payments when buying my new home?
This is a great one for new physicians, because lots of costs are associated with relocating - maybe your coming out of a fellowship or residency and haven't built up or accumulated a lot of savings and the down payment is taking a good portion of that. This strategy is something that we employ all the time. We want you to try and select a closing date when you find a home for the first portion of the month. Let's say you were to close in the first week of June. We're able to then push out your payment all the way to the middle of August. So not payment in June, No payment in July, payment's due August 1st but not late until the 15th. So, we can actually push that out as far as 75 days before your first payment is due to be received. Just a little tip, something that we try to do for our new and relocating physicians that we don't think many other lenders think through. If you have any other questions on how this might work for you, feel free to reach out to us directly. We'd be happy to answer your questions.
Will there be surprises the day of closing?
We get this all the time, and for the clients who don't say it, they are probably thinking it. Like any other industry, there are the good guys and there's the bad guys. And you really need to make sure early in the process that you are dealing with someone that has testimonials and you have a really good gut feel for. The process is, and when you are shopping for a loan, you need to understand that what you're getting is not just on a piece of paper, like a Good Faith Estimate, but you're actually getting a service. What you're buying is how will that process of the loan, and closing and making sure you get to the closing table without any surprises - how will that person service you throughout that process? So that's the thing that you've got to assess and the best way to do that is to do some research on those lenders. Make sure you look at their testimonials, ask them if you can talk to past clients, and you're going to figure out real quick if those guys will deliver exactly what they've promised to you. So if you'd like to speak to any of our past clients of view our testimonial page we'd certainly invite you to do that and we'd be happy to give you any other information you need.
How big of a PIA is the loan process?
Of course PIA is for pain in the *** and that's a question we actually got from a medical chat room and we go in there frequently and we try to understand the challenges that medical professionals are running into when they are getting home mortgages. And that's a question that comes up all the time - how big of a pain is this going to be? We think we bring a unique perspective and an advantage to you is our deeper understanding of those challenges that you're going to have. Those challenges surrounding student loans, new employment contracts, transferring across the country and the timing on the closing of your new home. And through our experience and deeper understanding, we're able to bring down that PIA factor substantially. However, understand that we are in the age after the mortgage meltdown and 2006 it was the glory days, if you could fog a mirror and you knew how to sign your name you could probably get a million dollar mortgage. That's not today. There's definitely more questions being asked, there's more due diligence, which is good for our real estate market. It's actually good for the state of our economy, but it's a little more work. Our deeper understanding is going to make it much less painful but you are going to have more questions and probably more detailed examination by underwriting to all the financial affairs. Basically all that means is a little more documentation. If you have any other questions on this, be happy to answer them, as always, we invite you to reach out to us directly.


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Kolkata, Oct 13 (IANS) The Congress Saturday managed to scrape through in West Bengal's Jangipur Lok Sabha seat, which fell vacant due to the elevation of Pranab Mukherjee to the post of the country's president, with his son Abhijit winning by only 2,536 votes.
While Abhijit secured 3,32,919 votes, his nearest rival Communist Party of India-Marxist's (CPI-M) Muzaffar Hussain lost in a photo finish getting 3,30,383 in the vote count Saturday.
The by-election was held Oct 10.
Pranab Mukherjee had retained the seat in the minority-dominated Murshidabad district by over 1.28 lakh votes in 2009.
The Congress votes dropped sharply to a little over 39 percent - a decrease of nearly 15 percent. The CPI-M, which got almost 39 percent, suffered a slight erosion of 1.53 percent compared to its vote share three years back.
Hussain, in fact, led in four - Jangipur, Sagardighi, Suti, Nabagram - of the seven assembly segments, but Mukherjee offset his rival's lead by doing well in Raghunathganj, Lalgola and Khargram.
The result saw a resurgence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the remote constituency located close to the India-Bangladesh border. The party's Sudhangshu Biswas polled 85,887 votes, which was over 10 percent of the valid votes. In 2009, the BJP had managed only two percent of the votes, which went up to four percent in the assembly elections last year.
Two pro-minority parties - Welfare Party of India and Social Democratic Party of India cut into the vote share of the established parties by bagging the support of over 66,000 people - constituting nearly eight percent of the valid votes.
The Trinamool Congress had not put up a nominee with party supremo Mamata Banerjee keeping her pledge to Pranab Mukherjee that she would not oppose the candidature of his son.
Abhijit expressed happiness over his win but said the slender margin was a cause for concern.
"The margin is surely a cause of concern but I am happy at the victory. Of course our vote bank has shrunk while the BJP's has expanded. We will discuss the issue with the state and district leadership."
He accused the BJP and the two pro-minority parties of trying to facilitate the victory of the CPI-M by dividing the votes.
Congress strongman Adhir Chowdhury said the absence of Pranab Mukherjee affected the Congress vote share. "Pranab Mukherjee is a towering personality. Abhijit is relatively new. Also some people opted for some other fringe parties".
CPI-M state secretary and Left Front chairman Biman Bose said his party gave the Congress a run for the money. "Through their experience, people are beginning to understand that the Left are their real friends".
There were 11 candidates in the fray.
Pranab Mukherjee was elected from this constituency twice in 2004 and 2009.


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By John Goralski
Sports Writer
At the end of their first run, Erika Florian finished one breath faster than Casey Abraham for third place at the Slalom Shootout. When the teammates finished their second run, they had flipped positions at the top of the standings.
On Monday, Feb. 25, the competition for Team Connecticut had been pared to just 30 boys and 30 girls, but it was the large numbers of Southington skiers that made this different than any previous state competition.
Six Knights qualified for the first shootout with all but one advancing to the final challenge. After four runs on the slalom course, four Knights earned positions of the state team.
It's the biggest representation from the local program in the history of the team.
"We did pretty well," said Southington ski racing coach Sean Florian. "Basically, we wanted the kids to go easy for their first couple of runs. Well, maybe not easy but not too hard. Then, we wanted them to go after it."
When the final scores were tallied, Abraham (109.13) edged Florian (110.55) for third place in the standings, but both were named to the Team CT roster.
"This is their element," said the coach. "Slalom is a lot quicker, and the gates come at you a lot faster. They're only 10 or 12 meters apart versus GS where they're 26 meters apart. It comes at you faster, and it's really quick. You have to be ready to do battle with all your armor on. Gates are smashing you in the head and the arms. Our girls that were here ski a lot of slalom, and that's an advantage."
The contest totals the top two times from the Grand Slalom (GS) with the top two teams from the Slalom Shootout, and the fastest 12 are picked for the CT team.
In addition, two Knights qualified in the boys race, and it might have been three except that Brian Chambers was forced to withdraw from the competition with a concussion.
Robert Chambers (104.13) finished fourth overall, and Sebastian Doughty (105.66) finished ninth. Both will represent CT at the Eastern High School Championships at Cannon Mountain in New Hampshire on March 8-10.
"This is pretty important to them. The kids like the camaraderie of the high school championships," said Florian. "It's been a fun year, and we still haved a couple of more races to go. We've come a long way, but we've still got to work on getting more depth and more new kids in."
CISL Race
Abraham carried that momentum back to Mt. Southington on Tuesday, Feb. 26, as she outdistanced 67 other skiers to capture the top spot at the CISL race.
Abraham (45.83) edged Cheshire's Kelsie Carlette by one hundredth of a second to capture the title. Florian (48.43) edged teammate Anna Schneider (48.49) for sixth place overall.
Despite three top 10 finishes, the Lady Knights (315.52) placed fifth out of eight varsity teams. Rebecca Ryan (52.28), Carolyn Zesut (59.35), and Rachel Klem (61.14) scored. Marissa Tedeschi (65.86), Megan Enright (75.12), and Melanie Tedeschi (100.88) contributed.
Robert Chambers (43.56) finished second overall in the boys race, just half of a second off the lead.
Doughty (45.84), Mike Schneider (48.24), Zach Palmer (55.48), Austin Gentile (56.09), and Ian Jacobs (56.82) scored. Austin Coley (60.4), Colton McLinnis (62.44), and Tanner Walsh (70.61) contributed.
Southington (306.03) finished seventh out of 11 varsity squads.


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Deputy accused of raping inmate
A suburban Atlanta sheriff's deputy has been accused of sexually assaulting a female inmate, according to arrest warrants.
Alvin Blake Sutherland, 51, of Douglasville, was arrested Friday night. He faces four felony charges, including aggravated sodomy, aggravated sexual battery, sexual assault by a member of law enforcement and violation of oath of public office.
The warrant says Sutherland assaulted the inmate at the Cobb jail on Jan. 11.
The inmate's name was not released.
Sutherland was being held Monday in the Douglas County jail. The arrest warrant says his bond was expected to be $100,000 when he's transferred to the Cobb jail.


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December 4, 1937. Washington, D.C. "Note to housewives: your turkey-baking troubles will be over and the bird you serve for dinner this yuletide will be tender, juicy and flavorsome if you follow the method used by the expert cooks at the Bureau of Economics, U.S. Department of Agriculture. Continual testing and experimenting with various recipes has taught Uncle Sam's cooks that many a prize bird has become a 'ham' when improperly prepared. The best recipe so far discovered by the Bureau of Economics is demonstrated in the following set of pictures, made under the supervision of Miss Lucy Alexander, Chief Cooking Specialist. Miss Alexander, a graduate of Vassar and the University of Illinois, has been on her present job for 11 years. Mrs. Jessie Lamb, Assistant Cook, is stuffing the turkey under her watchful eye. The turkeys on the table will go into the ovens at regular intervals, and be tasted and judged by a group of experts who are determining which diet and feeding program will produce the best flavored meat." Harris & Ewing Collection glass negative.
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ONSTED — The mother of a former Onsted student remembered her son on the 10th anniversary of his death Tuesday by donating more than 2,000 books to the district's elementary students.
Deborah Gibbs, after collecting donations for the past several months, purchased and donated the books for the 640 Onsted Elementary School students in memory of her son, Joshua, who died at age 23 after a brief illness. The students were permitted to select at least three books, and each book contained a sticker memorializing Joshua.
Elementary principal Marsha Davis called the donation an honor to Joshua's memory.
"It is overwhelming that they were able to do this," Davis said.
Deborah Gibbs said her son loved to help people.
"Starting in high school he was involved in a program called HOSTS (Helping One Student To Succeed) in which he took a class period out of his day and worked with elementary students who needed help with reading," she said.
After Joshua Gibbs graduated from Onsted in 1998, he went on to help adults with special needs.
"He was very caring, especially of the underprivileged," Gibbs said. "I am so proud of the man that he became and so sad that he didn't get to live his life giving to others."
Onsted third-grader Harrison Moore picked out two books Tuesday, one about stars and planets and an adventure book on saving the Hanukkah holiday.
"It means a lot to me," Moore said about Gibbs' donation.
Third-grader Callie Redman also said she appreciated the book donation and said it was "nice" of Gibbs to think of the students.
Deborah Gibbs said donating the books in her son's memory helps her as she continues to grieve his loss.
"I know that Josh is looking down on me with pride," she said. "Doing this in his honor makes my heart and soul feel better."
Book donation to elementary students honors memory of Onsted graduate's life
ONSTED — The mother of a former Onsted student remembered her son on the 10th anniversary of his death Tuesday by donating more than 2,000 books to the district's elementary students.


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WINNIPEG — A judge has tossed a lawsuit filed by a woman who didn't get into medical school.
Henya Olfman was denied admission into the University of Manitoba's faculty of medicine in 2010 and lost a subsequent appeal with the school.
Her father, a lawyer, then took the battle to court, claiming his daughter was entitled to be in the medical program since she had completed her pre-med courses.
In a recent decision, Winnipeg Court of Queen's Bench Justice Chris Martin describes the 154-page lawsuit as frivolous and an "absolute abuse of process."
He says it's unfortunate the young woman didn't get into medical school and it must have been disappointing to her parents.
"Regrettably, setbacks and denied aspirations are a part of life," writes Martin.
"Yet, to confront this through a lawsuit with the attendant substantial expenditure of time, effort and money to the specific defendants, as well as to the plaintiff herself, and to the administration of justice generally, is remarkable."
Martin suggests the woman's father, Shawn Olfman, lost his objectivity in crafting the suit on behalf of his daughter.
The judge calls the claim more of a meandering essay that piles up as many arguments as possible.
The lawsuit claims the university's medical school has a flawed selection process and breached an informal contract it had with Henya Olfman by offering her pre-med classes.
The suit further alleges that denying her admission violates the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and, in turn, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
The suit went as far as to call itself extraordinary. "More than any other case in Canada's history, this case will determine Canada's next few hundred years."
It's the second time the family has tried to sue. A previous claim was struck down in 2012, but it was rewritten and filed again.
The judge says claims like Olfman's clog the justice system and create delays for "proper" claims.
He awarded $6,000 in legal costs to the university and the provincial government.
A message left at Shawn Olfman's office was not immediately returned.


text: 2013 Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year: McCarty Farms January 7, 2013 07:49 AM Tweet The McCarty Family Farms team, from left: Ken, Clay, Tom, Mike and David. TAGS: Marketing, Overseas December 18, 2014 By Jim Dickrell Dairy Herd Management Dairy Editor Email McCarty Farms solely supplies Dannon yogurt plant You could call Clay McCarty a benevolent dairy case stalker. Every time he walks into a grocery store, large or small, he heads directly to the dairy case and makes a beeline for the stacks of yogurt cups. He isn't looking for odd flavors or new varieties—nor is he a yogurt junkie. Rather, he's picking up the Dannon yogurt cups and packs, scanning each for the plant locator code. His quarry: PLT 48. That's the code for yogurt produced in Dannon's Fort Worth, Texas, facility. All of the milk that is used to produce that yogurt comes from McCarty Family Farms' 7,200 cows in northwest Kansas. Yep, all of it. Bonus Content Past Innovative Dairy Farmer winners: Cheese. Cows. Wows! Power and Profit More on McCarty Farms: Maximize Machine Uptime McCarty Family Farms About the Innovative Dairy Farmer award More on yogurt production In Europe, Dannon's parent company, Danone, has long championed its arrangement with dairy farms. "One of their core corporate values is to have a direct relationship with their dairy farmers," McCarty says. "They call it 'cow to cup.' They value their dairymen as true business partners." So since April 2012, the McCartys—parents Tom and Judy and sons Mike, Clay, David and Ken—have been the sole supplier of milk for the Texas plant. Three tankers of condensed milk solids leave Rexford, Kan., each day and make their way 650 miles south to Texas. The unique arrangement, among many other innovations, has garnered the McCartys the recognition of being named the 2013 Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year. The award, now in its 15th year, is sponsored annually by the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) and Dairy Today magazine. The family will be honored at Dairy Forum 2013, sponsored by IDFA, in Orlando, Fla., later this month. McCarty Family Farms received two nominations for the award. The first came from Dale Rodman, Kansas Secretary of Agriculture; the second from The Dannon Company, Inc., itself. "Tom and Judy McCarty took a risk and moved from rural Pennsylvania to the plains of Kansas in 1999 to give their four sons the opportunity to fulfill their goals to be dairy farmers," Rodman says. "Thirteen years later, McCarty Family Farms has become an innovative leader in the Kansas dairy industry and a key component in three western Kansas communities, creating steady jobs that are a boost to rural economies," he says. Adds Michael Neuwirth, senior director of public relations for The Dannon Company: "The vision of the McCartys to find a partner who provides economic stability during volatile swings in pricing is an example of their commitment to innovation and future economic and business planning." Back at the dairy case. "My wife thinks I'm a little crazy for checking the yogurt aisle every time I go into a grocery store," Clay says. "But when I can go into a store and find a cup of yogurt that is from the milk my family produced, that means something to me." Last spring, when the first yogurt cups with PLT 48 started showing up in local food stores, Clay's wife, Kristy, posted a photo on her Facebook page. "It was amazing how many of her friends read her Facebook post, went to their stores, and posted their own pictures and comments about the yogurt that was produced from milk from our farm," Clay says. Knowing that the yogurt had originated at McCarty Dairy Farms isn't just a feel-good, "atta boy" pat on the back. It has transformed the culture on the family's three dairy farms. The brothers, Mike, 41, Clay, 39, David, 34, and Ken, 30, say they and their 105 employees realize that with this new level of recognition comes added responsibility. There is now a direct link back to their dairy, for any reason, both good and bad. So they have vowed to continue to be model citizens in terms of milk quality, animal care, environmental stewardship, work environment for employees and community relations. "We've always been driven by cow care and cow comfort. But this new relationship with Dannon has taken that dynamic to a new level," Ken says. Employees have bought into the concept as well. They, too, realize that they are no longer producing milk as a commodity that disappears into the national milk stream once it leaves the dairy. They know that now the milk that leaves the McCartys' dairy can—and does—end up right back in the grocery and convenience stores where they and their neighbors shop. Tom and Judy, who live on the dairy, can reach into their refrigerator and know that the Activia yogurt they eat each morning started its journey in the barns just a few yards away. The McCartys operate three separate dairies in Kansas: Rexford, with 2,100 cows; Bird City, with 2,700 cows, and Scott City, with 2,300 cows.Their innovation is really twofold: A marketing agreement with Dannon to supply all of the milk for the Texas yogurt facility. A milk condensing plant built, owned and operated by the McCartys adjacent to the milking parlor at the Rexford dairy. The marketing agreement is for five years, and is based on cost-of-production (COP) plus a margin. The arrangement is outside of the Federal Milk Marketing Order system. The Fort Worth plant is a non-pooling plant, which means that it does not have to pay the McCartys the Class II minimum price each month. But the plant also won't be eligible for pool draws and will have to make up the difference on its own to pay the COP plus margin to the McCartys. While neither Dannon or the McCartys will share many details of the marketing agreement, they do say it is designed to reduce price volatility for both parties. The agreement allows the brothers to focus on production efficiency and worry somewhat less about milk price and paying feed bills. "We're hoping to drive an upward spiral on efficiency," Mike says. That, in turn, should help them to continue to focus on long-term business decisions rather than lose sleep over meeting the month's cash flow. In the past, for example, they might have automatically culled a cow producing 50 lb. of milk even though she was 90 days confirmed pregnant. They still might cull her, but they now have a little more breathing room to make that decision—based on her genetics, her past performance and the genetics of the calf she is carrying. The agreement also allows them to have meaningful conversations with their vendors. In the past, it was always about getting the cheapest price. "Now, we want products that give us the best value and consistency and at a price we can lock in for a longer period," David says. "That's something new for us and our vendors, and we're both still feeling our way through this." The on-farm condensing plant is a first in the nation. The plant produces three 50,000-lb. loads of condensed milk solids and one load of cream from 500,000 lb. of milk. The 17,500-sq.-ft. building's footprint and many of its components—boilers and chillers—are in place for a doubling of capacity. Milk from the Rexford dairy is simply pipelined from the milking parlor's bulk tanks 200' away. Milk from the Bird City and Scott City dairies is tankered in and unloaded in one of the two drive-through truck bays. Milk from the Bird City dairy is 4 to 8 hours old by the time it arrives at the condensing plant. Milk from the Scott City dairy is 8 to 12 hours old when it arrives at the plant. "From the farm to Fort Worth, we're usually talking 36 hours," says Joe Gillespie, the farm's herd veterinarian turned condensing plant manager. "We go from cow to cup quickly," he says. And that means better yogurt because there's less hold time, less time for milk solids to warm and less time for milk proteins to denature. Before entering the plant, the milk is tested in a lab identical to Dannon's Fort Worth plant. The McCartys have the advantage of knowing exactly what antibiotics to test for because they know what antibiotics they are using on the dairies. Once milk enters the plant, two-thirds of the water is removed from the milk with steam condensers. Reverse osmosis condensers were also considered in the original plant design, but steam condensing won out since it worked best with Dannon's yogurt-making process, Mike says. The 40,000 gal. of reclaimed water from the process can be reused in any number of ways—to operate the condensing facility, as drinking water for cattle or for watering crops. This past summer, with the drought in full throat, the reclaimed water was diverted to the lagoons and used for crop irrigation. Because the plant is dedicated solely to supplying the Fort Worth plant, its output can be tweaked to meet that facility's needs. For example, this fall Dannon requested that the plant make a slight change to the viscosity of the condensed solids. "We changed the concentration and tailor-made what they requested," Gillespie says. It's also a much more consistent product in terms of quality. Prior to the McCarty deal, Dannon sourced its milk from Dairy Farmers of America. The 10 tankers of raw milk needed each day came from numerous farms with varying management levels and milk quality. All the milk met the required somatic cell count (SCC) level, but it still varied in quality. Yogurt manufacturers use the Rowland Index, a nitrogen fractionation test that measures the proportion of true protein that is casein. "Casein as a percentage of true protein will be lower on cows that have had a history of mastitis but currently have what would be considered a low SCC," explains Dave Barbano, a dairy food scientist with Cornell University. "This is because there is some lasting damage to milk quality from previous lactations." On the pooled milk samples from a year ago, the Rowland Index was 12. This past July, in the heat of summer, the McCartys' Rowland Index was 18. Higher is better—because it reflects more casein and less true protein degradation, Gillespie says. "So far, our milk has met or exceeded Dannon's expectations," he says. Maintaining that quality is an obsession for the McCartys. "We've definitely stepped up our training and the level of training," Mike says. Employees at all three dairies have completed Dairy Beef Quality Assurance certification. "The McCartys have taken it even one step further," says Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Rodman. "Staff at the Rexford facility has just completed the Validus Certified Responsible Producer certification, an intensive animal welfare training program." That program was developed and is regularly reviewed by renowned animal welfare expert Temple Grandin. There are less than 25 dairies in the country that have been certified in the program so far. The McCartys' Bird City and Scott City dairies are currently being evaluated as well. The brothers realize that working with Dannon in such a public way increases their exposure. "This is a different deal—and the guys out in the barn get it," Mike says. "What employees do in the parlor at 3 a.m. has to be the same as what they do at 10 a.m. when there are people watching," Clay adds. "We operate our dairy like 98% of other dairymen across the country. But we can have no slip-ups in milk quality or animal care," he says. It all comes back to locator code PLT 48. It's as though Dannon has stamped McCarty Family Farms on every yogurt cup it sells from its Texas plant. In fact, it has. "We've always been driven by cow care and cow comfort. But this new relationship with Dannon has taken that dynamic to a new level," says Ken McCarty. Kansas Immigrants What's so amazing about the McCarty dairy operation in Kansas is that none of it existed 14 years ago. For 85 years, the McCarty family had dairied near Wyalusing, Pa., about 35 miles northwest of Scranton. In the late 1990s, they were milking 200 cows in a tie-stall barn and farming 1,100 acres. But that acreage was cut into 142 fields. "You do the math on the size of our fields—it was less than 10 acres," says Tom McCarty. Logistics and high-priced land, even then, made farm expansion and growth difficult, he says. That's why he looked west—to Kansas. "At the time, corn silage was $15 a ton and alfalfa wasn't much more," he says. Milk was still priced very similarly to what it was back East. So in 1999, Tom bought wheat ground where the current Rexford dairy and condensing plant are now sited. The family began milking 700 cows in 2000. They are now milking 2,100 cows at the site and have their heifer raising operation for 6,000 head there as well. In 2007, the community of Bird City, Kan., 50 miles northwest, asked the McCartys to build a dairy nearby. Bird City saw what an economic driver the McCartys had been to Rexford—employee housing plus 30 to 40 additional children to the school district—and wanted the same for its community. By 2008, the McCartys were milking 2,700 cows there. In the spring of 2010, the McCartys started discussions with Dannon to build the milk solids condensing plant at Rexford. They finally got the green light in September 2011, agreeing to have the plant ready to ship its first load on April 1, 2012. During these discussions, the McCartys were also building a third dairy at Scott City, Kan., 70 miles to the south of Rexford. It began milking in 2011, and now totals 2,300 cows. Total tally: 13 years of expansion. 7,200 cows. 1,300 acres with more land/feed contracted with local farmers. 105 employees. Three tanker loads of condensed milk solids and one load of cream sold daily. McCarty Family Farms 15th Recipient The Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year Award is co-sponsored annually by the International Dairy Foods Association and Dairy Today magazine. The McCartys will be honored at Dairy Forum 2013, Jan. 27–30, at the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla. The 2012 winner was Sweetwater Valley Dairy Farm, Philadelphia, Tenn. Previous winners were Brubaker Farms, Mount Joy, Pa.; Haubenschild Dairy Farm, Princeton, Minn.; Mason Dixon Farms, Gettysburg, Pa.; Clauss Dairy Farms, Hilmar, Calif.; Baldwin Dairy/Emerald Dairy, Emerald, Wis.; Si-Ellen Farms, Jerome, Idaho; Pagel's Ponderosa Dairy, Kewaunee, Wis.; C Bar M Dairy, Jerome, Idaho; North Florida Holsteins, Bell, Fla.; KF Dairy of El Centro, Calif; Joseph Gallo Farms of Atwater, Calif.; KBC Farms, Purdy, Mo.; and High Plains Dairy of Friona, Texas. Back to news