Abstract: An aqueous coating composition is provided that is useful in coating a variety of substrates, including interior or exterior portions of food or beverage cans. The coating composition includes a resin system that includes a multi-stage latex. In some embodiments, the multi-stage latex is formed using a process that includes emulsion polymerizing two or more stages in the presence of an aqueous dispersion including a water-dispersible polymer. In certain preferred embodiments, the water-dispersible polymer is a polyether polymer.

Abstract: A system and method of collecting payments facilitates authorized generation of a payment order. In a preferred embodiment, the automated system has a simple input screen which receives the necessary information for generation of the payment order, which may be read to the system operator over the telephone by the authorizing payor. The system verifies the bank and account information by comparing the input information to records in a database associated with the system. Optionally, the system may also generate an inquiry to the bank to determine the availability of funds in the payor's account.

Abstract: A system and method of collecting payments facilitates authorized generation of a payment order. In a preferred embodiment the automated system has a simple input screen which receives the necessary information for generation of the payment order, which may be read to the system operator over the telephone by the authorizing payor. The system verifies the bank and account information by comparing the input information to records in a database associated with the system. Optionally, the system may also generate an inquiry to the bank to determine the availability of finds in the payor's account.

Abstract: Methods, systems and articles of manufacture consistent with certain principles related to the present invention allow a timing unit to control power to one or more electrical circuits based on the geographic location of the timing unit and/or the one or more electrical circuits. The timing unit may receive a code form a user, or other source. The timing unit may determine the geographic location of the timing unit or electrical circuits based on the code, and obtain almanac information associated with the determined geographic location. In an embodiment, the almanac information includes estimated times for a sunrise and sunset at the geographic location. The timing unit may then determine whether a current date and time of day related to such sunrise and sunset times is a trigger time, and control power to electrical circuits accordingly.

Abstract: A system and method of collecting payments uses an automated system to generate a draft, payable to the creditor and drawn on the payor's checking account, pursuant to the payor's authorization. The draft is then executed by the debt collector as authorized signatory for the payor, and deposited into the payee's account to complete payment. The automated system has a simple input screen which receives the necessary information for generation of the draft, which may be read to the system operator over the telephone by the authorizing payor. The system verifies the bank and account information by comparing the input information to records in a database associated with the system. Optionally, the system may also generate an inquiry to the bank to determine the availability of funds in the payor's account. When verification is complete, the system generates a paper bank draft payable to the payor, using MICR ink so that the draft can be processed in the banking system like an ordinary check.