ORLANDO, FL--(Marketwire -02/22/12)- Accurence, Inc., the software solution provider that invented the onsite inspection and automated scoping software category for property insurance claims adjusters, introduced today at the 2012 International Roofing Expo in Orlando, Florida, its software-based solution, ScopeAssist™ for roofing contractors.

Building upon their success of SettleAssist that is revolutionizing wind and hail insurance claim settlement for the property insurance industry, Accurence developed ScopeAssist to drive unprecedented accuracy in estimating for roofing contractors by transforming and standardizing the scope automation process.

At the job site, even the best contractors have difficulty correctly scoping roofs and siding. Contractors are required to identify materials, apply complex aerial CAD reports, and provide professional estimates notating various hazards such as steep, multi-stories, and accessibility. Getting these steps right is challenging and takes time that otherwise could be spent with the homeowner or servicing new leads. Accurate and consistent estimation depends largely upon a contractor's knowledge, memory, interpretations, decision-making, and hand-written notes.

ScopeAssist™ - Onsite Scope Automation Technology for Roofing Contractors

Built by contractors for contractors, ScopeAssist is an easy to use, two-step solution that transforms the onsite scope automation process so that roofing contractors can focus on the customer.

Digital inspection tool: The contractor uses a ScopeAssist app on a mobile device -- instead of the traditional pen and pad of paper -- to gather inspection data onsite. Decision intelligence engine (cloud-based software): The inspection data is then transmitted wirelessly to the proprietary ScopeAssist decision intelligence engine, which automates the following proactive steps within 90 seconds: Validates inspection data Builds a model of the situation Applies numerous rule sets based on geometry, best practices, guidelines, cost estimating data, building codes and aerial CAD data as available, etc. Automates the scope of repair Integrates with a third party cost estimating tool to generate an estimate

"Insurance companies partner with Accurence to manage the consistency and quality of their field personnel," stated Jake Labrie, VP of Business Development for Accurence. "It is a logical evolution for contractors with field personnel conducting similar activities to seek out Accurence's technology -- ScopeAssist. Roofing managers are benefiting from the peace of mind, speed, and scalability ScopeAssist delivers."

As validation of the demand in the roofing industry for ScopeAssist, Accurence also announced today it has entered into a long-term preferred technology partnership agreement with 3C Network for broad implementation of ScopeAssist nationwide. 3C Network is a national network of response-ready storm damage repair experts and roof-product manufacturers and suppliers. Each of 3C Network's members now has full access to the ScopeAssist product.

Labrie added, "Year over year, the roofing industry evolves as standardization improves, through pricing systems, aerial measuring technology, and now an unparalleled scope automation solution and a retail and disaster restoration contractor development organization like 3C."

"Accurence is the partner provider our members use to build trust with consumers and their insurance carriers," said L.C. Nussbeck, co-founder of 3C Network. "Their ScopeAssist solution reduces friction and assists contractors to accurately produce reliable estimates, while enabling the carrier to determine what's covered."

"We are excited about our technology partnership with 3C Network," said Romney Williams, President of Accurence. "3C's commitment to revolutionize the roofing industry and restore trust between roofing contractors and insurance carriers aligns extremely well with Accurence's vision to make the wind and hail claims process more accurate, consistent, and efficient -- which translates to tremendous benefits for homeowners, carriers, and contractors."

About Accurence, Inc.
Accurence is a software-as-a-service solution provider that invented the onsite inspection and automated scoping software category for property insurance claims adjusters and roofing contractors in order to drive significant gains in accuracy, efficiency, consistency, and intelligence in property claims settlement. Founded in 2005 by experts in field services, disaster restoration, contracting, quality assurance, and property insurance, Accurence is a privately held company headquartered near the Rocky Mountains in Westminster, CO.

For more information, contact Trent Cross at 303.500.5799 ext. 331 or visit http://www.accurence.com.

About 3C Network
3C Network was formed in 2011 to make selecting a reputable, experienced roofing contractor easier for the American consumer. Its high-performance integrated services, mobile technology, and professional business support gives its members an advantage to survive and thrive in the competitive roofing industry.

For more information, contact Chad Nikkel at 602.828.6766 or visit http://www.3C.com.

ScopeAssist is a trademark of Accurence, Inc.

Excerpt from:
Accurence Introduces ScopeAssist, Transforming the Estimating Process for Roofing Contractors Through Scope Automation

MALVERN, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

In 2011, North American residential roofing demand exceeded 140 million squares valued at more than $11 billion, representing factory gate revenues of residential roofing products including asphalt, metal, tile, wood, slate, polymer composite and built up roofing. Reroofing historically comprises 70% to 75% of all spending on roofing materials, but rose to over 80% in 2011 due to new construction declines. Ironically, since new residential construction is down so dramatically, roofing for new construction is expected to grow most rapidly by comparison.

To quantify these trends, Principia is launching its latest multi-client edition of Residential Roofing 2012, an exhaustive market report that reveals key market data organized for strategic marketing and business planning. The report includes analysis identifying best growth opportunities through 2015, strategies for value creation and competitive advantage, and the changes in distribution channels serving the residential roofing market.

The report includes a unique interactive Market Model and Forecasting Tool that allows subscribers to model hypothetical market performance based on their own assumptions of metrics such as housing starts, using the data compiled in the report.

Principia is conducting direct interviews with 150 professionals representing building product manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, dealers, builders, contractors and installers. Residential Roofing 2012 launches in February 2012, and will be delivered to subscribers by the end of Q2, 2012.

About Principia

Principia serves the building products industry through products and services aimed at profitable growth, helping clients grow market share and revenues and improve margins. Services include strategy consulting, market research, and industry conferences and reports. Principia is headquartered in suburban Philadelphia, with offices and affiliates worldwide. See PrincipiaReports.com, and PrincipiaConsulting.com.

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Principia Launches Residential Roofing 2012 Industry Report

21-02-2012 14:49 Second Story Addition A full rotation of the Model rendered with Final Renderworks

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Custer FR360° - Video

22-02-2012 12:24 The community celebrated the official opening of the newly renovated and expanded Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre on Thursday February 16. The second story expansion of Centre provides open concept rooms that host arts and crafts programs, a computer lab, billiards room and a lounge with an outside patio and seating area. The original floor has an upgraded kitchen with areas for dining and socializing. In addition, the gym and meeting rooms have been upgraded to provide additional versatility in programming. A senior's garden is in the planning stages and should be completed in the coming months in time for spring plantings. Programs previously run out of the Sunrise Pavilion are now being offered at the new centre. As part of the grand opening, a community celebration was held with Surrey seniors that featured live music, Seniors' Choir performance, artist activations, a professional billiards demonstration, carpet bowling and table tennis demonstrations, and other fun for all ages.

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Grand Opening of the Expanded Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre - Video

February 22, 2012 - Canadian Football League (CFL) Winnipeg Blue Bombers WINNIPEG, MB - The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have announced that they have hired two new defensive coaches who will join Head Coach Paul LaPolice's staff this season. Will Plemons will be in charge of coaching the defensive line and Chip Garber will take over coaching the linebackers.

"I am very excited to have both Coach Plemons and Coach Garber join our staff for this upcoming season," said LaPolice. "Both coaches have a ton of experience at either the collegiate level, or in Coach Garber's case, the professional level and specifically the CFL. They will both be great teachers to our players and are great additions to our team."

Garber comes to Winnipeg from the Toronto Argonauts where he spent the last two seasons as the team's Defensive Coordinator. In 2010, his defence gave up the fewest points, both per game and overall, was second in the league in both average yards gained per pass and average yards gained per rush. Four of his defensive players were named to the East Division All-Star team in 2010 and two were named to the team in 2011. Garber's first foray into the CFL came in 2008 when he was named Defensive Backs Coach of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. That season, the Tiger-Cats finished second in the league in interceptions. The following season, Garber was named Defensive Quality Control Coach of the Washington Redskins of the NFL. Garber has a vast amount of experience at the collegiate level having worked on the staffs of the University of North Texas, Hofstra University, Army, Virginia Military Institute, University of Minnesota, Texas Christian University, Mississippi State, Kentucky University and Southern Methodist University.

Plemons has been the Defensive Line Coach at Fresno State University since 2009 where he helped develop Pittsburgh Steelers draft pick Chris Carter into being named the 2010 Defensive MVP of the Western Athletic Conference. Fresno State's defence ranked sixth in the nation in sacks in 2010. In 2007, Plemons coached the defensive line at Sacramento State University where the defence was ranked second in total defence in the Big Sky Conference, second against the run and first in sacks. He moved to Fresno State in 2008 and coached the linebackers for one season. Plemons began his coaching career as the Assistant Offensive Line and Tight End Coach at California Lutheran University in 1998, before taking over the defensive line in 2000. He moved to Fresno State in 2003 to coach the defensive line before joining Idaho State University as defensive line coach in 2006.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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Blue Bombers Add Two Defensive Coaches to Staff

Remember when Steve Jones and Nicole Scherzinger were to originally share The X Factor hosting duties? Well, the duo hosts option is back on the table as part of a rejiggered second season according to one of the show’s top executives.

PHOTOS: An 'American Idol' to 'X Factor' Timeline

"Simon's vision was always to have a man and woman host this and to make it feel a little bit like an award ceremony,” FremantleMedia North America CEO Cecile Frot-Coutaz, whose company is a producer on both American Idol and The X Factor, tells TV Guide Magazine. “A glamorous girl and a good-looking guy doing a kind of double act."

Jones may have appreciated sharing the burden with someone else. Alas, that wasn’t his lot in life. After suffering much criticism among fans for his curt style, Jones broke the news of his departure from the show himself via Twitter in late-January. Well, you know what hit the fan then. Over the next few hours, both Scherzinger and Paula Abdul would find themselves sharing the termination headlines with the British talent.

STORY: The J.Lo Effect: $15 Million Becoming the New Standard as Reality Salaries Soar

As to the reasoning behind the changes, Frot-Coutaz says that X Factor didn’t differentiate itself enough from American Idol, which they chose to leave alone this year after last year’s additions of judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler -- another decision they seem to be second guessing in light of its ratings decline.

In the case of Abdul, it felt Simon Cowell’s chemistry with her was too reminiscent of Idol, as well. So, the pop star and choreographer had to go too.

PHOTOS: Inside Simon Cowell's 'X Factor' Trailer

"There was no way around it," the CEO says. "In terms of making the show feel different, everyone felt we needed to put it in a different situation."

Since then, Cowell has made it very clear that they’re looking for big stars to fill the open judging spots. Currently, Janet Jackson is in early talks with the producers. And while Mariah Carey remains a desirable hire for the show, Cowell has admitted that the late Whitney Houston was under consideration at one point as well.

Who do you think can fill the two hosting spots they’re mulling over? Tell us in the comments section below. 

Email: Jethro.Nededog@thr.com; Twitter: @TheRealJethro

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'X Factor' Entertains Replacing Steve Jones With Two Hosts

Steven Madden Ltd. reported higher profit for the fourth quarter as revenue showed growth. Steven Madden designs, sources, markets and retails women’s, men’s and children’s shoes for sale through its wholesale and retail channels.

Investing Insights: Warren Buffett Trashes Gold, But What About Silver?

Steven Madden Earnings Cheat Sheet for the Fourth Quarter

Results: Net income for Steven Madden Ltd. rose to $23.8 million (55 cents per share) vs. $17.6 million (41 cents per share) in the same quarter a year earlier. This marks a rise of 34.9% from the year-earlier quarter.

Revenue: Rose 73.7% to $279.8 million from the year-earlier quarter.

Actual vs. Wall St. Expectations: Steven Madden Ltd. beat the mean analyst estimate of 54 cents per share. It beat the average revenue estimate of $266.2 million.

Quoting Management: Edward Rosenfeld, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “We are pleased to have ended 2011 with record fourth quarter results. We delivered high-teen organic sales growth in each of our wholesale footwear, wholesale accessories and retail businesses. Our flagship Steve Madden brand led the way, as we recorded strong gains in Steve Madden women’s footwear and handbags in both wholesale and retail and in both the United States and international markets. We also continued to integrate and capitalize on our new acquisitions, Topline and Cejon, which are proving to be excellent additions to the business. We believe we are well-positioned as we head into 2012, with a strong portfolio of brands, a proven business model, and a number of substantial growth opportunities which we anticipate will enable us to continue to drive top and bottom line gains.”

Key Stats:

The company has enjoyed double-digit year-over-year percentage revenue growth for the past five quarters. Over that span, the company has averaged growth of 45.8%, with the biggest boost coming in the most recent quarter when revenue rose 73.7% from the year earlier quarter.

The company has now seen its net income rise for three quarters in a row. In the third quarter, net income rose 39.3% and in the second quarter, the figure rose 20.1%.

The company has now topped analyst estimates for the last four quarters. It beat the mark by 4 cents in the third quarter, by 2 cents in the second quarter, and by 3 cents in the first quarter.

Gross margin shrank 7.7 percentage points to 35.5%. The contraction appeared to be driven by increased costs, which rose 97.3% from the year earlier quarter while revenue rose 73.7%.

Looking Forward: Analysts have a more positive outlook about the company’s results for next quarter. The average estimate for first quarter of the next fiscal year is 52 cents per share, an increase from 51 cents sixty days ago. The average estimate for the fiscal year is $2.24 per share, a rise from $2.23 ninety days ago.

(Company fundamentals provided by Xignite Financials. Earnings estimates provided by Zacks)

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To contact the reporter on this story: Derek Hoffman at staff.writers@wallstcheatsheet.com

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Damien Hoffman at editors@wallstcheatsheet.com

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Steven Madden Ltd. Earnings: Fifth Consecutive Quarter of Double-Digit Growth

(PRWEB) February 22, 2012

When it comes to new or replacement vinyl windows, one window does much the same as another, right? Wrong! Introducing Windows by Four Seasons and its exclusive, high performance technology.

The leading-edge technology used to create Four Seasons vinyl replacement windows makes them a cut above the rest for strength, durability, safety, security, ease of maintenance and energy efficiency. What's more, the homeowner doesn't have to settle for one-size-fits-all, cookie-cutter designs. New windows will be custom made to the home's exact requirements with a choice of colors, styles and finishes that perfectly complement the home. Even better news, all of this comes at a moderate price point.

An exclusive glazing system known as CONSERVAGLASS SELECT™ is used in the manufacture of Four Seasons' beautiful, super energy-efficient, heavy-duty replacement windows. CONSERVAGLASS SELECT™ is available in double or triple pane options with both argon and krypton gas filling. By using the optimal glazing recipe, Four Seasons can match the vinyl windows to the heating and cooling needs of the specific local climate.

Four Seasons vinyl replacement windows are proudly made in the USA. Their combination of premier window designs and CONSERVAGLASS SELECT™ glazing recipes have created a unique energy-saving replacement window that is suitable for use in both commercial and domestic buildings, and in either extremely warm or extremely cold environments.

As well as being energy-efficient, Four Seasons replacement windows are hard to beat when it comes to durability, safety and security. The company utilizes the maximum Titanium Dioxide in its UPVC recipe to provide superior UV protection and impact resistance, while vinyl window sashes are strengthened by adding a hot–dipped galvanised steel insert, for a family's safety and security. Steel inserts can be also be added into the window frames if desired by the homeowner.

If areas where security is a concern, it's good to know that Four Seasons vinyl windows feature a number of additional safety and security features. Internal glazing beads prevent glass being removed from the exterior; 'pocket' sills stop burglars from 'jimmying' the windows open and dual positive action locks mean the windows are automatically locked when they're closed.

While every customer wants their new vinyl replacement windows to last, and to keep their family safe and secure, they want them to be beautiful too. And Four Seasons vinyl replacement windows certainly won't disappoint. They produce every style window imaginable, from double-hung and casement, to picture and sliding, to bow or bay, and even awning windows.

You can also add character to the architectural design of the windows by choosing from a palette of colors and grain textures. Combine either a smooth or foil color on the outside with a wood grain finish on the inside – whatever blends best with the individual style and décor of the home. And for the perfect finishing touch, there's a range of matching window catches or a choice of etched glass too.

Four Seasons has a commitment to 'Build the Best' and their ongoing investment in leading-edge technology certainly makes them a premier brand in the new and replacement vinyl window market. So don't make the mistake of thinking all replacement window products are the same, and be sure to check out Four Seasons Windows before you buy.

###

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Four Seasons Exclusive Technology Creates Beautiful Windows with Unbeatable Performance

WASHINGTON, Feb. 21, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Window World, Inc.®, America's largest replacement window and home remodeling company, sponsored a mission for the Veterans Airlift Command on February 19. Three wounded veterans traveled from Washington, D.C., to Meridian, Miss., to speak about their experiences to marines who are scheduled to deploy to combat zones. They have also planned this trip to Mississippi to visit a friend and fellow Marine.

USMC LCPL Kyle Carpenter, one of the passengers on the February 19 mission, was serving in Afghanistan when he was hit by an enemy grenade in 2010. Carpenter heroically threw himself on the grenade to shield his fellow Marine, losing his right eye and suffering other severe injuries in the process.

Dominic Davila and Rory Hamil were also aboard the flight to Mississippi. Davila had his right leg amputated below the knee as a result of an insurgent bombing in Afghanistan in 2009. Hamil lost his right leg in 2011 after stepping on an explosive pressure plate in Afghanistan. Fellow Marine William Romero was also on the flight.

"We're thrilled that we're able to give back to these veterans who have given so much," said Tammy Whitworth, chairman and CEO of Window World and co-founder of Window World Cares. "Several members of our Window World family are veterans so this cause is one that is dear to our hearts. We're proud to support such a great organization."

The Veterans Airlift Command (VAC) is a non-profit organization that facilitates free air transportation to wounded warriors, veterans and their families for medical and other compassionate purposes, through a national network of volunteer aircraft owners and pilots. To date, Window World Cares has supported 23 missions for the VAC totaling more than 100 hours of flight time.

In addition to supporting veteran missions, Window World Cares has also dedicated a custom chopper built by Orange County Choppers to the VAC. The bike was built in 2011 and will be unveiled to the public on an episode of "American Chopper" scheduled to air Monday, Feb. 27, at 9 p.m. EST on Discovery Channel.

For more information about Window World or Window World Cares, please visit http://www.WindowWorld.com and http://www.WindowWorldCares.com. To learn more about the Veterans Airlift Command, visit http://www.VeteransAirlift.org.

About Window World, Inc.®:
Window World, Inc.®, headquartered in North Wilkesboro, N.C., is America's largest replacement window company with stores and offices in more than 200 cities nationwide. Founded in 1995 and led by CEO Tammy Whitworth, the company consistently delivers value to homeowners by combining quality windows, siding and doors with excellent service at low prices. An ENERGY STAR® retail partner, Window World sells and installs more than one million high-quality residential replacement windows annually and has earned the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval four years in a row. Through a brand and design partnership with Kathy Ireland, the company offers an assortment of windows, siding and door collections exclusively by kathy ireland Home® by Window World. For more information, visit http://www.WindowWorld.com or call 1-800-NEXT-WINDOW.

About Window World Cares™:
Window World Cares™, founded by Todd and Tammy Whitworth, is the charitable foundation of Window World, Inc. and corporate partner of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital®. Since its inception in 2008, Window World Cares has raised more than $2.3 million for St. Jude and was named New Corporate Partner of the Year in 2010. In addition to St. Jude, Window World Cares also supports the Veterans Airlift Command, which provides free transportation to injured soldiers, veterans and their immediate families. To learn more about Window World Cares and its charitable partners or to donate, visit http://www.WindowWorldCares.com.

About Veterans Airlift Command:
The VAC facilitates free private air transportation to wounded warriors, veterans and their families for medical and other compassionate purposes. All flights are made available through a national network of volunteer aircraft owners and pilots. To learn more about the Veterans Airlift Command, visit http://www.veteransairlift.org.

CONTACTS:
Todd Woods
Window World, Inc.
Phone: 336-667-2100
E-mail: twoods@windowworld.com

Cindy Phillips
Reed & Associates Marketing for Window World, Inc.
Phone: 757.962.7375
E-mail: cindy@reedandassociatesmarketing.com

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Window World Sponsors Mission for Veterans Airlift Command

NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C., Feb. 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Window World, Inc.®, the nation's largest replacement window and home remodeling company, and Window World Cares™, its charitable foundation, will be featured on an upcoming episode of the hit reality television show American Chopper. Orange County Choppers, the starring company of the show, built the custom bike for Window World to support the Veterans Airlift Command (VAC). The episode will premiere Monday, Feb. 27, at 9 p.m. EST on Discovery Channel.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120222/CL57912 )

The Veterans Airlift Command provides free private air transportation to wounded warriors, veterans and their families for medical and other compassionate purposes, through a national network of volunteer aircraft owners and pilots. To date, Window World Cares has supported 22 missions for the VAC totaling 100 hours of flight time. These flights have transported 33 soldiers and 71 total passengers.

"The newest Window World bike created by Orange County Choppers honors the deserving veterans that have given our country so much," said Tammy Whitworth, chairman and CEO of Window World and co-founder of Window World Cares. "We have been blessed to partner with such a great organization and look forward to growing together in the future."

Window World has partnered with Orange County Choppers for the third time to build the VAC Bike. The first bike, the Window World Chopper, was unveiled in May 2010 and was featured on American Chopper that same year. The second, the St. Jude Dream Bike, was built to support St. Jude Children's Research Hospital®. It was unveiled in December 2010 and was highlighted on an episode of American Chopper in 2011.

The Window World episode of American Chopper will re-air on Monday, Feb. 27, at 11 p.m. EST and Saturday, March 3, at 11 a.m. EST. For more information about Window World, Window World Cares or the VAC Bike, visit http://www.WindowWorld.com.

About Window World, Inc. ®:
Window World, Inc.®, headquartered in North Wilkesboro, N.C., is America's largest replacement window company with stores and offices in more than 200 cities nationwide. Founded in 1995 and led by CEO Tammy Whitworth, the company consistently delivers value to homeowners by combining quality windows, siding and doors with excellent service at low prices. An ENERGY STAR® retail partner, Window World sells and installs more than one million high-quality residential replacement windows annually and has earned the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval four years in a row. Through a brand and design partnership with Kathy Ireland, the company offers an assortment of windows, siding and door collections exclusively by kathy ireland Home® by Window World. For more information, visit http://www.WindowWorld.com or call 1-800-NEXT-WINDOW.

About Window World Cares™:
Window World Cares™, founded by Todd and Tammy Whitworth, is the charitable foundation of Window World, Inc. and corporate partner of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital®. Since its inception in 2008, Window World Cares has raised more than $2.3 million for St. Jude and was named New Corporate Partner of the Year in 2010. In addition to St. Jude, Window World Cares also supports the Veterans Airlift Command, which provides free transportation to injured soldiers, veterans and their immediate families. To learn more about Window World Cares and its charitable partners or to donate, visit http://www.WindowWorldCares.com.

About Veterans Airlift Command:
The VAC facilitates free private air transportation to wounded warriors, veterans and their families for medical and other compassionate purposes. All flights are made available through a national network of volunteer aircraft owners and pilots. To learn more about the Veterans Airlift Command, visit http://www.veteransairlift.org.

CONTACTS:
Todd Woods
Window World, Inc.
Phone: 336-667-2100
E-mail: twoods@windowworld.com

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Window World to Unveil Third Orange County Chopper on Hit Television Show American Chopper