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Butternut Squash Latkes
I love the way the flavors come together in this recipe and just as important, it's EASY to whip up! The two key ingredients can be found in the frozen section at your local grocery store. Throw it together with some eggs and seasoning and you get a fancy tasting, fast making latke!
1 24oz. bag of butternut squash, peeled and diced, thawed
1 16 oz. bag of frozen hashed browns, thawed
2 eggs
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground coriander
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
Place thawed butternut squash into a large mixing bowl. Mash well. Add the bag of thawed hashbrowns. Then add the remaining ingredients and mix well. Heat up a large non stick frying pan with oil over medium heat. Using 1/4 cup measuring cup, cook the batter in batches and fry until golden brown, about 3 – 4 minutes each side.
2 thoughts on "Butternut Squash Latkes"
Can it be made without potatoes ?
Yes! Add some flour if it falls apart, that will help it stick together.


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Many business owners — particularly those who own smaller companies — spend so much time trying to eliminate weaknesses that they never fully capitalize on their strengths. One way to do so is to identify and explicate your unique selling proposition (USP).
Give it some thought
In a nutshell, a USP states why customers should buy your product or service rather than a similar one offered by a competitor. A USP might be rather obvious if you offer a type of state-of-the-art technology or specialize in a certain kind of service that's not widely available. Many businesses, however, will need to dedicate some serious thought and discussion to identifying their USP — and they may need to do so every year or two to adapt to market changes.
Ask the right questions
Involve employees from every level of your company in brainstorming sessions to develop your USP. During these meetings, consider the answers to questions such as:
- What makes our products or services distinctive?
- What aspect of our business is most important to its growth?
- Which elements of what we do are the most difficult for competitors to copy?
- Why should customers buy from us instead of the competition?
As you might have noticed, knowledge of your competitors is critical to developing a strong USP. You can't differentiate your business from theirs unless you're familiar with what competitors are selling, how they sell their products or services, and how they support those sales in terms of customer service. To this end, you may need to undertake some "competitive intelligence" efforts to gather needed information.
Integrate it into the sales process
Your USP should be a powerful, concise statement that customers and prospects will immediately understand and recognize as fulfilling their wants or needs. Among the most commonly cited examples is package delivery giant FedEx's "When it absolutely, positively has to be there overnight." Although the company doesn't use this slogan anymore, it remains a perfect example of a USP that's clear and memorable.
Of course, your USP must be more than just words. Once established, it should serve as a sort of "mantra" for your sales team. That is, after identifying your customers' needs during the sales process, they should use the USP (or an iteration of it) to explain to customers why your product or service is the right choice. Just be careful not to overuse your USP in sales and marketing materials, including on your website.
Now may be the time
Given the monumental changes that have occurred in the U.S. economy and in many industries because of the COVID-19 pandemic, now may be an imperative time to reconsider and relaunch your USP. We can help you evaluate your sales numbers, as well as return on investment in marketing efforts, to carefully craft the right approach.
© 2020

subset: commoncrawl


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With athletic and emotional styling, powerful engine performance and a new Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) model, the all-new fourth-generation 2009 TL is nothing less than the most exciting performance luxury sedan in Acura history. Moreover, as the sales volume leader for the division, the TL is also Acura's most important car. In completely redesigning the TL from the wheels up, Acura aimed to enhance literally every aspect of the original model. Featuring a stiff unit-body construction with expansive use of high-strength steel (as well as key aluminum components), unique and dramatic exterior styling, a choice of two powerful VTEC V-6 powertrains (280-hp 3.5L and 305-hp 3.7L), all-new Electric Power Steering (EPS), and a luxurious and technologically advanced interior, the new TL sets the benchmark for the future direction of the Acura division.
For the first time ever in an Acura vehicle, the 2009 TL is available in a choice of front-wheel-drive TL or all-wheel-drive TL SH-AWD® configurations. The new TL is a powerful and precise performance luxury sedan that is as confident and composed on a mountain road as it is in the city center. Replacing the previous TL Type-S is the TL SH-AWD® model, built exclusively for the enthusiast driver and featuring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, special suspension and steering tuning, and the most powerful engine from Acura ever. Unlike some competitors, who add all-wheel drive to their vehicles primarily to help in winter conditions, the TL's available SH-AWD® was designed to dramatically enhance sporty handling in addition to further enhancing the vehicle's winter-driving capability. This means that the TL SH-AWD® is inspiring to drive year-round.
The 2009 TL SH-AWD® makes a significant advance in both on-road performance and driving exhilaration as it significantly surpasses the previous track-tuned TL Type-S in all measurable levels of handling performance. Moreover, not only is the new TL SH-AWD® more exhilarating when pushed on challenging roads, but in day-to-day use it delivers a more rewarding and exhilarating level of driving excitement. Without a doubt, the first ever application of SH-AWD® with the TL sedan - Acura's best selling sedan - marks a new milestone for performance, drivetrain sophistication, and safety. Not only is it the best performing Acura TL ever, but the new TL SH-AWD® is a top performer amongst every vehicle in its class.
The new TL has the visual presence to back up its performance, with exterior luxury cues like genuine stainless-steel trim, LED taillights and dynamic surface lines immediately capturing the viewer's attention.
Inside, TL occupants are treated to an engaging interior which includes advanced LED lighting throughout the cabin, thickly bolstered leather seating and flowing metallic or wood patterned accents. The 2009 TL gains an additional 1.3 inches of rear legroom and 0.5-inches of rear shoulder room, thus making it the most spacious TL ever.
As expected from Acura, the TL's range of standard safety features is exemplary and includes six airbags, active front head restraints, and the advantages of Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body design.
In addition, a Technology Package is available on both models. Featuring such items as Keyless Access System with push-button start, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink® real-time traffic, real-time weather with Doppler-style radar mapping, the Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system, and Bluetooth® Audio the Technology Package offers the most comprehensive electronic array of features ever available on an Acura.
Altogether, the fourth-generation Acura TL amplifies and refocuses the original TL's mission as a driver's performance luxury sedan. Competing in the entry premium sedan segment, the 2009 TL advances Acura's mission of providing precisely crafted and focused luxury-performance vehicles. A summary of its most powerful attributes includes:
1. Dramatic and unique exterior and interior styling together with a superlative level of luxury and technological appointments. 2. Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) model developed specifically for the performance enthusiast. 3. Available Technology Package combines premium leather seating surfaces with advanced electronic technologies that make driving more enjoyable, efficient and convenient. 4. The latest passive safety features along with top projected safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The 2009 TL enters the competitive luxury market at an ideal time as the segment in which it competes is expected to remain strong into the next decade. The new TL is forecast to share substantially in this success with a projected sales increase to about 70,000 units per year, an increase of 5.8-percent through 2012. Available with the largest and most powerful engine in TL history, along with the sport-driving focused SH-AWD® system (the world's first torque-vectoring AWD system when introduced in 2000), the new TL arrives ready to compete with vehicles like the Audi A4 and A6, BMW 3-Series and 5-Series, Infiniti G35 and M35, Lexus ES, GS and IS sedans, and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class.
Performance luxury sedan customers value vehicle traits, such as dramatic and exclusive exterior styling, emotional and luxurious interior design, and fun-to-drive character. These elements are balanced by an equally keen appreciation for quality, reliability, durability and competitive pricing.
Self-guided, discriminating and technically savvy, these customers also feel that prestige is determined more by life experiences than by pure wealth. In other words, experiencing life, rather than just accumulating possessions, is a powerful driver. For this reason they are interested in vehicles that help them enjoy driving to the fullest - and the 2009 TL is designed to do exactly that. While the 2009 TL is designed to appeal to a broad range of upscale consumers, the target buyer for the TL is expected to be a professional male in his mid 40s with a household income of about $100,000 per year, while the expected TL SH-AWD® target buyer is a professional male in his early 40s with a household income of over $150,000 per year.
- Front engine, front-wheel-drive
- 3.5-liter SOHC V-6 aluminum alloy engine
- 280 hp at 6,200 rpm and 254 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm
- 11.2:1 compression ratio
- Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®)
- Dual-Stage induction system with lightweight magnesium intake manifold
- Cold-air intake system
- Integrated exhaust manifolds cast directly into the cylinder heads
- High-flow sport-tuned exhaust system with dual tips
- Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system
- Computer-Controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
- Direct Ignition System
- Detonation/knock control system
- Maintenance Minder™ system
- 100,000 mile tune-up intervals*
TL Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)
- Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) for performance handling and all-season capability
- 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 aluminum alloy engine
- 305 hp at 6,200 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm
- 11.2:1 compression ratio
- High-silicon aluminum cylinder sleeves cast directly into aluminum cylinder block
- Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) for intake and exhaust valves
- Dual-stage induction system with lightweight magnesium intake manifold
- Cold-air intake system
- Larger throttle-body (69 mm diameter versus 64 mm in the TL) for the Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system
- Integrated exhaust manifolds cast directly into the cylinder heads
- High-flow, sport-tuned dual exhaust system with quad exhaust tips
- Computer-Controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
- Direct ignition system
- Detonation/knock control system
- Maintenance Minder™ system
- 100,000-mile tune-up intervals*
- High-flow close-coupled catalytic converters plus under floor catalytic converter
- High-capacity 32-bit RISC processor emissions control unit
- Meets EPA TIER 2 - BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV emissions standards
- EPA estimated 18/26 mpg (city/highway)
- EPA estimated 17/25/20 mpg (city/highway/combined)
- Quick-response Sequential SportShift allows semi-manual transmission operation
- New straight-gate style console-mounted shifter
- Steering-wheel mounted F1®-style paddle shifters
- Paddle shifters operable in both Drive and Sport modes
- Coordination between Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system and transmission makes for quick, smooth shifts
- Wide gear-ratio spacing for quick acceleration and good fuel economy
- Advanced shift-hold control minimizes unwanted shifting during spirited driving
- Grade logic control system reduces gear "hunting" when climbing hills
- Fully automatic full-time traction and handling system
- Distributes torque between front and rear axles
- Distributes torque between left and right rear wheels
- Provides torque vectoring to directly control the yaw moment of the vehicle
- Capable of "overdriving" outside rear wheel to enhance handling
- Understeer is greatly reduced during hard cornering
- Increases overall cornering grip in dry and inclement weather
Design & Styling
- "Motion Surface" body design features a new Acura signature grille, strong character lines and bold, aggressive character
- Projector-style HID low beam and halogen high beam front headlights
- Integrated front fog lamps
- Power tilt/slide moonroof with auto-reverse feature
- LED illumination for taillights, Center High Mounted Stop Light (CHMSL) and exterior mirror housing-mounted turn signals
- Advanced underbody aerodynamics
- Greater overall length, width and wheelbase than third-generation TL
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body structure
- Frame rails repositioned to inside of floor pan for improved aerodynamics
- New A, B & C-pillar foam separators
- Extensive use of high-strength steel
- 17-inch diameter aluminum wheels; P245/50R17 M+S tires (on TL)
- 18-inch diameter aluminum wheels; P245/45R18 M+S tires (on TL SH-AWD®)
- 19-inch diameter aluminum wheels; 245/40ZR19 summer tires (optional on SH-AWD® model)
- New Electric Power Steering (EPS)
- New dampers with unique dual-stage "blow-off" valve
- Double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension
- Firmer coil springs, dampers, and stabilizer bars on SH-AWD® model
- 4-wheel disc brakes with dual-piston (front) and single-piston (rear) calipers
- Exclusive EPS/brake booster tuning for SH-AWD® model
- Front fascia-mounted cooling ducts for the front brakes on SH-AWD® model
- Hill Start Assist (HSA) on SH-AWD® model
- Engaging cockpit designed for performance driving
- Leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel with illuminated fingertip controls and F1®-style paddle shifters
- New LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination
- High-resolution Multi-Information Display (MID) allows access to multiple electronic functions and customizable feature settings
- Compass
- 10-way adjustable power driver's seat (8-way power seat with 2-way power lumbar)
- 8-way power front passenger seat
- Premium leather seating surfaces
- Exclusive sport seating and sport steering wheel on SH-AWD®
- Solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system with auto humidity control
- 5-position straight shift gate
- Tilt and telescoping steering column
- Electronic cruise control
- 8-speaker audio system with 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® Audio, and Dolby ProLogic II
- USB port connectivity (for iPod®, iPhone®, or removable mass storage devices)
- Auxiliary jack interface (for portable MP3 music players)
- Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface
- Power moonroof with tilt, auto-open/close, auto-reverse and key-off operation
- 2-position memory function (for seating position, mirror adjustments, radio presets, climate control settings, MID presets, and more)
- High-quality surface finishes and materials
- Molded carpet insulation for superior fit and acoustic damping
- Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and rearview camera
- 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display
- AcuraLink® satellite communication system that allows communication between the TL and Acura
- AcuraLink® real-time traffic with all-new Traffic Rerouting™ feature
- Real-time weather with Doppler-style radar mapping
- Acura/ELS Surround® premium 10-speaker surround sound system with DVD-Audio, DTS™, CD, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® Audio and 2,500-song* hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system, and ProLogic II
- Interface dial that provides quick, intuitive access to navigation, audio, climate control and other features
- Keyless Access System (with smart entry and push-button ignition)
- Full-grain perforated Milano Premium leather seating surfaces
- 3D metallic trim on instrument panel and doors
- The 2009 Acura TL features the following safety technologies as standard equipment:
- Active safety systems
- 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
- Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) with Brake Assist
- Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control (Electronic Stability Control)
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Standard all-season (M+S) tires
- Available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body structure
- 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions
- Front seatbelt automatic tensioning system with integrated load limiters
- Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags
- Dual-chamber front-seat side airbags
- Side curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions
- Active head restraints for front headrests
- Rear head restraints for all seating positions
- Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system in the rear seat
- 2.5-mph front and rear bumpers
A quintessential component of the 2009 Acura TL's mission as a performance luxury sedan is to provide the maximum possible driving enjoyment for enthusiast drivers. Thus, the TL offers a choice of two all-aluminum powertrains. The standard 3.5-liter V-6 develops 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque and drives the front wheels through a sophisticated Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control System. Featuring technologies like a Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system, Computer-Controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) on intake valves and a sport-tuned exhaust system with dual tips, the 3.5-liter engine is targeted to meet California's stringent CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification, and is projected to return 18 mpg in city driving and 26 mpg on the highway.
The TL takes the driving experience to the next level with the new Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) model, which features a 3.7-liter V-6 engine developing 305 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque - making it the most powerful Acura sedan ever. With additional features including a new cold-air intake system, Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) on both intake and exhaust valves, and a high-flow, sport-tuned dual exhaust system with four exhaust tips, the SH-AWD® powertrain truly delivers racetrack-quality performance, while also meeting CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification and returning projected fuel-economy of 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. The innovative SH-AWD® system is unique to Acura and by employing torque vectoring, in hard cornering under acceleration it can send more torque as well as overdrive the outside rear wheel, thereby creating a "yaw moment" that enhances vehicle dynamics by generating a turn-in effect.
Acura's commitment to sophistication and refinement are equally important, and to this end both engines shine with features like maintenance-free serpentine accessory belts, low-noise and low-drag electric power steering (EPS), and electronically controlled hydraulic engine mounts that reduce vibration. Both engines likewise feature a Maintenance Minder™ system and 100,000-mile tune-up interval. With validation testing conducted from Alaska to Death Valley, from public streets to Germany's famed Nürburgring, and from Japan to New Zealand, the new TL has been proven in an extremely demanding range of driving environments.
The new 2009 TL takes Acura styling to a dynamic new level. Using the concept "emotion unleashed" as a driver for developing the new body design, Acura designers in Southern California crafted a performance luxury sedan shape with a surface that expresses motion even while at rest. The use of aggressive wheel arches, dramatic character lines along the body side and numerous Acura exclusive design elements (such as the new Acura signature grille) create a powerful and distinctive new shape. Featuring such premium details as genuine stainless-steel body trim, a power moonroof, HID projector-beam headlights and LED taillights as standard equipment, the TL should immediately enjoy a strong foothold in the premium segment.
To meet the demands of the luxury customer, the new TL has grown slightly over its predecessor - while simultaneously exceeding the previous TL's performance and handling. The 2009 TL is 6.2 inches longer overall, 1.8 inches wider and a modest 0.5 inches taller to give it a noticeably roomier interior. The wheelbase and track are also greater; wheelbase increases by 1.4 inches and the track is up by 1.1 inches in front and 1.8 inches rear. The wider track improves cornering prowess while the longer wheelbase enhances ride comfort and interior space.
Further defining the 2009 TL is an all-new unit-body, which positions the frame rails inside (instead of underneath) the floor pan to provide a nearly flat body underside. This frame design improves overall structural strength for enhanced crash safety, while also reducing interior noise and improving aerodynamic efficiency - the reduction in drag in turn enhances fuel economy. The new TL also uses a higher percentage (47.6-percent) of high-strength steel to further improve structural strength while helping to reduce weight. To this end, aluminum is also used for the hood, front suspension subframe and rear suspension knuckles, while foam-filled body pillars help reduce noise in the cabin.
The new TL rides on double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. Several new technologies further sharpen the TL's handling while significantly reducing noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) inside the car. These technologies include new dual-stage "blow off" style hydraulic dampers, new hydro-compliant bushings (for the engine, transmission, and select suspension components) and a new "smart" engine mount design. The available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) TL has unique suspension tuning, more aggressive braking-force tuning, front-brake cooling ducts, and special tuning for the new driver-focused Electric Power Steering (EPS) system.
Standard on the 2009 TL are 17x8-inch cast aluminum wheels with Bridgestone Turanza P245/50R17 all-season tires. The available Technology Package has proprietary Michelin Pilot P245/50R17 all-season tires, while the TL SH-AWD® model includes 18x8-inch aluminum wheels with Michelin Pilot P245/45R18 rubber. Available on TL SH-AWD® models are optional 19x8-inch aluminum wheels with aggressive Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 245/40ZR19 94Y summer tires.
The new TL's driver-focused objective is strongly presented throughout the interior, where a new "dual personal" layout provides a feeling of separate personal space for the driver and front passenger. Sweeping shapes and high-quality materials provide a feeling of intelligent luxury, while a formidable array of standard and available electronics reward the TL occupants with top-flight audio, navigation and communications experiences. On the driver's side, all the controls and instruments are positioned intuitively, allowing the driver to focus on the driving experience while still enjoying Acura's substantial array of electronic aids and conveniences.
Luxury and technology are evident from the moment the TL doors are first opened, and detail after detail underscores Acura's commitment to winning over the luxury customer. From the shape and feel of the door handles and the precision of the door-sill scuff plates, to the richly appointed leather seating and the ergonomic positioning of seat bolsters, armrests and controls, the 2009 TL immediately connects with the luxury customer. But it is the remarkable range of standard features that do the convincing - features like 10-way power driver's seat (8-way power seat with 2-way lumbar support) and 8-way power passenger's seat, steering-wheel mounted F1®-style paddle shifters for the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission, and an 8-speaker, 276-watt audio system with 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® Audio, USB port and AUX jack connectivity, and HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface.
The available Technology Package adds a desirable range of electronic upgrades to the extensive list of standard luxury features, beginning with the Keyless Access System (with smart entry and push-button ignition) and luxurious full-grain perforated premium Milano leather seating surfaces. Designed to integrate seamlessly with the TL driving experience, the electronic features continue with an Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, rearview camera and an all-new 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display, plus AcuraLink® real-time traffic with Traffic Rerouting™ and AcuraLink® weather with Doppler-style weather radar maps. In addition, an AcuraLink® satellite communication system provides a continual interface between the TL and Acura. An interface dial complements powerful voice recognition capability that provides intuitive access to navigation, audio, climate control and other features. For the ultimate audio experience, the Technology Package includes an Acura/ELS Surround® 10-speaker, 440-watt premium sound system with DVD-Audio, DTS™, CD, AM/FM radio, XM® Radio, Bluetooth® Audio and a 2,500-song* hard disk drive (HDD) media storage.
*Approximate capacity
There is no greater interest and concern for the Acura Division than safety. This extends from safety for the driver and passengers of the new 2009 TL, the safety of occupants of other vehicles, and even the injury mitigation to pedestrians. The new TL provides this with a complement of the latest safety engineering and features. The story begins with the TL's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. Introduced to the Acura Division in the 2005 RL and now integrated into the TL for the first time, ACE™ better dissipates crash energy in a frontal collision through dedicated load-bearing frame structures, while also more precisely matching the TL with vehicles of different sizes and with different bumper heights during a frontal collision. By controlling the load pathways in this way, ACE™ helps preserve the integrity of the passenger compartment in a severe crash. With the application of the ACE™ body structure to the TL, the entire Acura lineup is now equipped with this revolutionary safety technology.
While ACE™ is the structural foundation for the TL's safety, its array of industry-leading passive safety technologies is equally important. The list begins with six airbags, including dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, new dual-chamber front seat side airbags, and side curtain airbags for outboard seating positions. Features continue with 3-point seatbelts and head restraints for all seating positions, while the driver and front passenger also have front seatbelts with an automatic tensioning system with load limiters and an Active Head Restraint System. Rear-seat features include Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH), which permits attachment of up to two child seats.
The TL offers superb accident-avoidance capabilities thanks to features like its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension systems, new Electric Power Steering (EPS), 4-wheel disc brakes (with ABS, EBD and Brake Assist), Vehicle Stability Assist, standard all-season tires and available SH-AWD®. Additional exterior safety features include daytime running lights (DRL), 2.5-mph front and rear bumpers, and a deformable hood panel, hood hinges and windshield-wiper pivots to help mitigate pedestrian injuries.
The 2009 TL is designed to meet the latest crash-safety regulations, including the new FMVSS214 side crash (the 2009 TL meets this new regulation three years early) and new FMVSS301 rear crash regulations. Internal testing projects that the 2009 TL will achieve the highest ratings in both government National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)** and independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash testing. Projected ratings include:
Crash test
Projected Rating*
| |
Frontal Offset
**Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model tested with standard side-impact air bags (SABs).
[Source] Honda Press Release


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A very powerful moral tale reminiscent of our society even today. The place is the room of the Night Editor of a tabloid newspaper as we meet young Dr. Lundgren and what has happened to his career due to a piece in the newspaper. I found this to be very engrossing and surprisingly violent for the period of production –… (more…)
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The outdoor seating area of this pet friendly restaurant welcomes you and your well behaved pet. We recommend that you contact restaurant in advance to ensure there is ample seating for you and your pet.
Planning a getaway to Falls Church, VA? Find pet friendly hotels in Falls Church.
5878 Leesburg Pike
Falls Church, VA 22041, United States
Falls Church, VA 22041, United States
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Pet Perks! When you book with TripsWithPets, your furkid gets a complimentary perk. Because every pet deserves a treat!
We Care! Get personalized assistance finding a hotel that checks all the boxes -- from real people in the USA.


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Dierks Bentley Twitter Impostor Scams Woman Out of $160K
A woman in South Carolina is reporting that her sister is out of a considerable sum of money after sending funds to a social media scammer posing as Dierks Bentley.
According to The Herald, the Rock Hill, SC woman told local police that her sister had sent $160k in cashier's checks and gift cards to a person claiming to be the singer, according to an incident report. The impostor allegedly met the victim on Twitter, and they shared text messages later.
The incident will need to be investigated by federal authorities, according to local police.
This appears to be the latest in a string of troublesome scams involving celebrity imposters. In the country community, a group of artists decided in June to take action against these scams. Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, Maren Morris, Lindsay Ell, Jon Pardi, Hunter Hayes, Trace Adkins, Cole Swindell, Rascal Flatts, Kelly Clarkson and more put together a three-minute clip warning fans about social media impostors.
The clip, titled PSA: Imposters on Social Media, has the artists informing fans that the only account they use is the one with a blue verified check-mark next to their name, and that's the only one that should be trusted. It also instructs fans not to give out their personal data, as the real artists will never ask for such information.
All of the Country Albums That Hit Shelves in 2018


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Character Folio Pack (Retailers)
Allow 5-7 business days for shipping in the US. 5-10 business days elsewhere.
Shipping fees are automatically calculated based on the items you purchase. For more information, read our shipping policy.
This item includes the following downloads:
- Character Folio Pack (PDF)
These downloads will become available in your personal downloads page once you complete your purchase.


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Dinosaur Provincial Park is located about two and a half hours drive southeast of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The nearly 29-square-mile (75-square-km) park is best known for its extensive fossil beds, within which have been identified some 35 different species of dinosaurs from the Late Cretaceous Epoch (about 100 to 65 million years ago). Over 300 dinosaur skeletons have been found here. The park protects a very complex ecosystem including three communities: prairie grasslands, badlands, and riverside cottonwoods. Its ecosystem is surrounded by prairies but is unique unto itself. The park offers unique and stunning scenery, great camping and over a dozen interpretive programs designed to educate and entertain visitors of all ages.
credit: Kevin Saff


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Robin Hood pin badges help students create goodwill in the USA
Five members of Nottingham Rowing Club will be wearing Robin Hood pin badges when they begin their studies at American universities in September. The badges have been provided by the internet-based World Wide Robin Hood Society, as part of its 20thAnniversary Year celebrations and have been frequently used around the world to help promote the City and County.
The Society operates from Sherwood Business Centre in Nottingham and Chairman, Bob White, says, "The eye-catching green and gold pin badges feature a traditional silhouette image of the legendary Sherwood Forest outlaw and are ideal gestures of goodwill that are particularly popular in America and many other places around the globe. The badges become a talking point and on many occasions they have helped to "break the ice" by opening conversations that have often lead to successful business and commercial deals, as well as helping to foster community links and personal friendships"
Nottingham Rowing Club's logo also features a distinctive Robin Hood image on sweat shirts and tracksuit tops etc. and the club members will be proudly wearing their pin badges and sportswear as ambassadors for their Club and County.
The five rowing club members going to the USA to study are: Anna Thorntonfrom the Beckett School, who was a Double Scull winner at the HRR, under 23 Worlds in Poland and selected for the World Senior Champs in Bulgaria in September. She will be studying at Washington University. Harvey Kay from Rushcliffe School is a Silver Medal winner in the GB under 23 8 and he will also be studying at Washington University. Kyra Edwards from the George Spencer School won a Bronze Quad medal at the under 23 World Championships and she will be studying at UCLA, California along with Lucy Holgate who won Gold in the WNS 8 in the Home Countries International in Cork.
Jenna Draycott lives in Carlton and was a Silver winner in the double scull junior championships in Nottingham HPNWS and she is off to study at Ohio University.


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Hillary Clinton's historic presidential campaign–once the political handicappers' favorite in the Democratic contest–now appears to depend on two things: Ohio and Texas.
On Tuesday, Barack Obama racked up his ninth win in a row, defeating Clinton by an embarrassing 17 points in Wisconsin. And once again, the nature of his win made the night worse for the Clinton crowd. As Obama had done in Virginia and Maryland a week earlier, he outdrew Clinton in voters in most demographic slices. In a state full of working-class voters, Obama demonstrated once more that he can appeal to lunch-bucket Democrats, outpacing Clinton among voters making $50,000 or less a year. Among voters below 30 years of age, Obama walloped Clinton 73 to 20 percent. He had a 2-to-1 edge with independents and Republicans who voted in the Democratic primary. Clinton did have an edge among those 65 and older: 60 to 39 percent. But among voters who said the economy was the top issue, Obama pulled 55 percent–a big gain from the 44 percent he collected among these voters on Super Tuesday. In Wisconsin, he won 54 percent of the vote of Democrats who have not attended college–presumably blue-collar Dems. On Super Tuesday, he collected only 42 percent within this group.
At this point, Clinton's base seems to be composed of one group of loyalists: older, middle-income women. (Among all Democratic women, Obama beat Clinton 50 to 49 percent in the exit polls.) Though women voters propelled Clinton to victories in New Hampshire and Nevada, they have not carried her to success since those two states. At the same time, Obama has expanded his core.
In Wisconsin, Obama's win occurred after another nasty stretch of campaigning. The Clinton campaign, after easing up on the attacks following the South Carolina contest, went into kitchen sink mode: throwing whatever they could at Obama. The Clinton crew accused him of plagiarism (for having used a few sentences of political rhetoric close to that of Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, an Obama supporter), claimed his health care plan was a disaster, slammed him for considering whether to break his promise to stay within the public campaign financing system (which Clinton, too, has pondered rejecting), maintained that his mortgage crisis plan was inadequate and (in the words of one Clinton spokesperson) "to the right of George Bush," and pounded him for turning down her request for a debate a week. None of this worked.
According to the exit polls, Democratic voters who reached a decision on how to vote within the past month broke for Obama 62 to 37 percent. Those who decided over a month ago split 50 to 49 percent for Clinton. The obvious conclusion: Obama has, yes, momentum. Winning eight contests in a row prior to Wisconsin influenced Badger State voters. Two-thirds of Wisconsin Democrats told exit polltakers they believed Obama has the better shot at winning in November.
With her support cratering, what can Clinton do? None of the trendlines are positive for her, as she heads toward the March 4 showdowns in Ohio and Texas. In the Lone Star State, Clinton has a lead in the polls, but it has been narrowing in recent days. In Ohio, she seems to be maintaining a comfortable advantage. But are Democratic voters in these states–including those working-class Democrats Clinton is counting on in Ohio–a different breed than those in Wisconsin and Virginia and immune to Obama's appeal? The next two weeks, he will be working these states hard. And so far this year, every time Obama has had a chance to spend much time and resources in a state, he has won or placed a close second.
A week ago, Mark Penn, Clinton's chief strategist, sent out a memo to reporters, noting that after Ohio and Texas, Clinton and Obama "will be virtually tied" in delegates. He wrote,
The reason Hillary is so strong in Ohio, Texas and Pennsylvania is that her message of delivering solutions resonates strongly with voters in those states. Hillary is the only candidate who can deliver the economic change voters want–the only candidate with a real plan and a record of fighting for health care, housing, job creation and protecting Social Security.
In recent primaries, Democratic voters have not validated Penn's claim. Still, he argued that Clinton could triumph in Ohio and Texas (and Pennsylvania on April 22, too) with the votes of white women and Latinos and end up with a lead in delegates. That may be possible–though the math has become rather difficult for Clinton. With the loss in Wisconsin (and the expected loss in Hawaii on the same night), Clinton more than before needs to score not only wins but blowouts in Ohio and Texas to close the increasing gap between her and Obama in pledged delegates. And there's no obvious course of action for her. She bashed Obama in Wisconsin to little effect. She also adopted a more populist, give-'em-hell tone when discussing economic issues, and there was no payoff.
In Youngstown, Ohio, on Election Night, Clinton–in a marathon-length speech drenched with policy details–repeated her chief criticism of Obama: I'm experienced; he's not. The Democratic race, she declared was about selecting a presidential candidate who "relies not just on words but on hard work." She added, "We can't just have speeches, we have to have solutions….While words matter, the best words in the world are not enough unless you match them with action."
That experience-over-inspiration argument has been Clinton's pitch since Iowa and New Hampshire, and it has not yet stopped Obama. Can Clinton play the same game of hold 'em in Texas and Ohio–her last best chances–and expect different results? There's no knowing at this point. But the betting is no longer in her favor.
Photo by Flickr user slwilson used under a Creative Commons license.


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Yes. We charge a 2.5% credit card fee (applied to the sum of all products purchased) plus $0.25 per order transaction fee for all orders placed through your reseller site.
If one of your customers purchased a hosting account and email totaling $10, the fee would be as follows:
Credit card fee: $10 * .025 = $0.25
Plus $0.25 transaction fee = $0.50 total sales fees on this order.


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I can't believe I'm about to admit this out loud….or to my keyboard….I decided to lie down for a nap before lunch on Friday and woke up five hours later. So I ate a bowl full of granola cereal, piddled around the house for a bit, and then decided I was still sleepy. So I lay back down — I think it was 6pm by that point — and finally woke up at 7:30 Saturday morning.
So I basically slept away a whole day from my weekend — not that I missed anything anyway. It's not like I slept through some exciting adventure or blew off a date. Nope! Emma Kelly was with her dad and my dogs' food bowls were filled. There was absolutely NOTHING keeping me from hibernating for as long as I did. In fact, there's really no good reason to be awake at this very minute. I still feel so tired that I'm tempted to go lay back down. I won't, though. Because I think the reason behind feeling this way might not be that I didn't get enough sleep during the week. I think I might be depressed.
I just booked my vacation to go back home to SC this summer. My parents moved to Dallas a couple years ago, and since the obligatory visit to see them wasn't necessary, I let the years slip by without making a trip that way. Ever since my parents moved here, they've had their house in SC on the market. For over two years, it's just been sitting there, waiting to welcome me back whenever I needed to go HOME. Even though I've been in Texas for 19 years now, South Carolina is still HOME.
So the plan was for me and Emma Kelly to go back to SC and visit with my best friend since fifth grade, Tomi Jean, and her family. Then we'd hang out with my aunt and my cousin and my umpteen second and third cousins. Then we'd head down to the beach to stay at Mama and Daddy's house there. But those plans have changed now. After two years, somebody finally bought my parents' house. So now, it's like I really don't have a home to go home to anymore.
And it feels like my last remaining connection to HOME has been severed. I'll always have friends and relatives to stay with, but now I'll always be somebody's company. I can't just curl up on the couch and commandeer the television any more. And I can't just wander around the house wearing little more than a t-shirt. I can't just open up the refrigerator or sniff around the pantry. I can't just flop around and be completely, comfortably at HOME anymore. And I'm so sad about that.
I didn't realize I would take it this hard! I've got to talk my parents into buying another house there with me!! Right after I take another nap……..


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Code of Conduct
G8.01 Code of Conduct Governing Relationships between University and Student Loan Lending Institutions
Guiding Principles
Understanding that the primary goal of institutional financial aid professionals is to help students achieve their educational potential by providing appropriate financial resources to this end, Missouri State University adopts this Code of Conduct to assist its students to make knowledgeable choices regarding the financing of their education.
Prohibition of Certain Remuneration to University Employees
The University shall require and ensure that no officer, Board member, director, employee or agent of the University accepts anything of more than nominal value on his or her own behalf or on behalf of another from or on behalf of a Lending Institution (other than an institution of higher education or governmental entity such as the U.S. Department of Education), except that this provision shall not be construed to prohibit any officer, Board member, director, employee, or agent of the University from conducting (a) non-University business with any Lending Institution; or (b) University business unrelated to educational loans. As used in the preceding sentence and throughout the Agreement, a Lending Institution is defined as:
- Any entity that itself or through an affiliate engages in the business of making loans to students, parents or others for purposes of financing higher education expenses or that securitizes such loans; or
- Any entity, or association of entities, that guarantees educational loans (not to be construed to include the Missouri Department of Higher Education (MDHE)); or
- Any industry, trade or professional association that, to the best of the University's
knowledge after reasonable inquiry, receives money from any entity described above
in subsections a and b, unless:
- Such money received by the association is in the form of membership dues or some comparable type of payment;
- Such money is fixed for all members of the association; and
- Such association's membership is comprised by at least 51% of entities and individuals who do not originate, service, or guarantee student loans.
Nothing in this provision shall prevent the University from holding membership in any nonprofit professional association.
The prohibition set forth in the previous paragraph shall include, but not be limited to, a ban on any payment or reimbursement by a Lending Institution to a University employee for lodging, meals, or travel to conferences or training seminars unless such payment or reimbursement is related solely to non-University business or University business unrelated to education loans.
Limitations on University Employees Participating on Lender Advisory Boards
The University shall prohibit any officer, Board member, employee, or agent of the University from receiving any remuneration for serving as a member or participant of an advisory board of a Lending Institution, or receiving any reimbursement of expenses for so serving, provided that participation on advisory boards that are unrelated in any way to higher education loans shall not be prohibited by the Agreement. Understanding that such service by persons affiliated with the University can be of value to the institution and the community, such service is not prohibited, nor is receipt of reimbursement for expenses or participation in activities of the Lending Institution, as long as there is abstention from any votes and board meeting discussion regarding higher education loan programs, and activities on behalf of the Lending Institution are limited to non-University business and University business unrelated to educational loans.
Prohibition of Certain Remuneration to the University
The University may not accept on its own behalf anything of value from any Lending Institution in exchange for any advantage or consideration provided to the Lending Institution related to its education loan activity. This prohibition shall include, but not be limited to, (i) "revenue sharing" by a Lending Institution with the University, (ii) the University's receipt from any Lending Institution of any computer hardware for which the University pays below-market prices and (iii) printing costs or services. Notwithstanding anything else in this paragraph, the University may accept assistance as contemplated in 34 CFR 682.200(b) (definition of "Lender")(5)(i), and may enter into contracts with Lending Institution primarily involving activities unrelated loan activity. Receipt of gifts from Lending Institutions unrelated to education loan activity is not prohibited.
Preferred Lender List
In the event that the School promulgates a list of preferred or recommended lenders or similar ranking or designation ("Preferred Lender List") then
- Every brochure, web page or other document that sets forth a Preferred Lender List must clearly disclose the process by which the School selected lenders for said Preferred Lender List, including but not limited to the criteria used in compiling said list and the relative importance of those criteria; and
- Every brochure, web page or other document that sets forth a Preferred Lender List or identifies and lender as being on said Preferred Lender List shall state in the same font and same manner as the predominant text on the document that students and their parents have the right and ability to select the education loan provider of their choice, are not required to use any of the lenders on said Preferred Lender List, and will suffer no penalty from the University simply for choosing a lender that is not on said Preferred Lender List;
- The School's decision to include a Lending Institution on any such list and the School's decision as to where on the list the Lending Institution's name appears shall be determined solely by consideration of the best interests of the students or parents who may use said list without regard to the pecuniary interests of the School;
- The constitution of any Preferred Lender List shall be reviewed no less than every other year;
- No Lending Institution shall be placed on any Preferred Lender List unless the said lender provides assurance to the School and to student and parent borrowers who take out loans from said Lending Institution that the advertised benefits upon repayment will continue to inure to the benefit of student and parent borrowers regardless of whether the Lending Institution's loans are sold;
- No Lending Institution that, to the best of School's knowledge after reasonable inquiry, has an agreement to sell its loans to another unaffiliated Lending Institution shall be included on any Preferred Lender List unless such agreement is disclosed therein in the same font and same manner as the predominant text on the document in which the Preferred Lender List appears;
- No Lending Institution shall be placed on any one of the School's Preferred Lender Lists or in favored placement on any one of the School's Preferred Lender Lists for a particular type of loan, in exchange for benefits provided to the School or to the School's students in connection with a different type of loan;
- Beginning August 1, 2008, no Lending Institution shall be placed on any one of the School's Preferred Lender Lists unless said Lending Institution has agreed with the Attorney General to abide by a Lending Code of Conduct, or have adopted a comparable set of standards such as those required by the Federal government, or as approved by the Attorney General of any other state.
Prohibition of Lending Institutions' Staffing of University Financial Aid Offices
The University will ensure that no employee or other agent of a Lending Institution is ever identified to students or prospective students of the University or their parents as an employee or agent of the University. No employee or other agent of a Lending Institution may staff the University Office of Student Financial Services at any time.
Proper Execution of Master Promissory Notes
The University has not and will not link or otherwise direct potential borrowers to any electronic Master Promissory Notes or other loan agreements that do not allow students to enter the lender code or name for any lender offering the relevant loan, unless the University provides an additional link to provide information to students regarding the process for borrowing with institutions not on the Preferred Lender List. Understanding that lenders are identified on the Preferred Lender List on the basis of their superior service and other benefits to students, the University will not be considered in violation of this Code of Conduct if the student fails to meet published guidelines for payment of fees and a standard response is implemented.
School as Lender
If the school participates in the "School as Lender" program under 20 U.S.C. § 1085(d)(1)(E), the School may not treat School as Lender loans any differently than if the loans originated directly from another lender; all sections of the AVC apply equally to such School as Lender loans as if the loans were provided by another lender.
Prohibition of Opportunity Loans
As used herein, "override pool," "opportunity funds," and "opportunity loans" refer to any agreement, understanding or practice in which a lender applies more lenient loan underwriting criteria than it otherwise would to a certain class of loan applicants if the school meets certain milestones or metrics with respect to other loans with that lender, such as the number of loans initiated or in force, or the dollar amount of such loans, or where the lender agrees with your school to lend money to students outside the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP), at the direction of your school, in exchange for your school dropping out of the federal direct loan program and/or marketing the lender's separate FFELP loans to students.
The School shall not arrange with a Lending Institution to participate in any override pools, opportunity funds, opportunity loans, as defined above, if the participation in such program(s) prejudices any other borrower.


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Sept. 19, 2013. High Country Crime Stoppers and Boone Police seek the public's assistance in solving the following crime:
On Tuesday Sept. 17, 2013 at approximately 2:00 p.m., a white male entered Grashal Outdoors and took a Beretta semi-automatic pistol. The man was wearing a dark colored ball cap, a black hooded sweatshirt, jeans, and white tennis shoes.
Anyone with information on this crime or any other crime is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 828-268-6959 / 828-737-0125 or the Boone Police Department at 828-268-6900. All information will be kept confidential.
High Country Crime Stoppers pays rewards for information, which leads to arrests; recovery of stolen property; seizure of drugs and the location of wanted persons.


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Computer software also called a program or simply software is any set of instructions that directs a computer to perform specific tasks or operations. Computer software consists of computer programs, libraries and related non-executable data (such as online documentation or digital media). Computer software is non-tangible, contrasted with computer hardware, which is the physical component of computers. Computer hardware and software require each other and neither can be realistically used without the other.
At the lowest level, executable code consists of machine language instructions specific to an individual processor—typically a central processing unit (CPU). A machine language consists of groups of binary values signifying processor instructions that change the state of the computer from its preceding state. For example, an instruction may change the value stored in a particular storage location in the computer—an effect that is not directly observable to the user. An instruction may also (indirectly) cause something to appear on a display of the computer system—a state change which should be visible to the user. The processor carries out the instructions in the order they are provided, unless it is instructed to "jump" to a different instruction, or interrupted.
Software is a 1982 cyberpunk science fiction novel written by Rudy Rucker. It won the first Philip K. Dick Award in 1983. The novel is the first book in Rucker's Ware Tetralogy, and was followed by a sequel, Wetware, in 1988.
Software introduces Cobb Anderson as a retired computer scientist who was once tried for treason for figuring out how to give robots artificial intelligence and free will, creating the race of boppers. By 2020, they have created a complex society on the Moon, where the boppers developed because they depend on super-cooled superconducting circuits. In that year, Anderson is a pheezer — a freaky geezer, Rucker's depiction of elderly Baby Boomers — living in poverty in Florida and terrified because he lacks the money to buy a new artificial heart to replace his failing, secondhand one.
As the story begins, Anderson is approached by a robot duplicate of himself who invites him to the Moon to be given immortality. Meanwhile, the series' other main character, Sta-Hi Mooney the 1st — born Stanley Hilary Mooney Jr. — a 25-year-old cab driver and "brainsurfer", is kidnapped by a gang of serial killers known as the Little Kidders who almost eat his brain. When Anderson and Mooney travel to the Moon together at the boppers' expense, they find that these events are closely related: the "immortality" given to Anderson turns out to be having his mind transferred into software via the same brain-destroying technique used by the Little Kidders.


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Privacy Notice (Version 1.1 – dated August 1, 2022)
The European Economic Association understands that your privacy is important to you and that you care about how your personal data is used. In this Privacy Notice we therefore describe how we collect, use and store your personal data. We advise you to carefully read this Privacy Notice.
Please rest assured that in processing your personal data we always try to act in accordance with the provisions of the General Data Protection Regulation (EU Regulation 2016/679 or "GDPR") and any other applicable laws or regulations on the protection of personal data.
1. Information About Us
The European Economic Association (also referred to as "we" or "us") is a non-profit international scientific association constituted under Belgian law, with company number 0429.064.949 and with registered address at Neerstraat 107, 3980 Tessenderlo, Belgium. In the framework of this Privacy Notice, we shall act as the data controller.
If you would like to contact us in relation to this Privacy Notice, you can do so by using the following contact details:
Data protection lead: General Manager
Email address: firstname.lastname@example.com
Telephone number: 0039 340 8357633
2. What Does This Notice Cover?
This Privacy Notice explains how we use your personal data: how it is collected, how it is held, and how it is processed. It also explains your rights in relation to the processing of your personal data.
The Privacy Notice is applicable to all data processing activities carried out by the European Economic Association, including the data processing activities carried out through our websites or in the framework of our service provision. By continuing to use or websites and services, you confirm to have read and understood the content of this Privacy Notice.
3. What is Personal Data?
Personal data is defined by the GDPR as any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person who can be directly or indirectly identified in particular by reference to an identifier. Personal data is, in simpler terms, any information about you that enables you to be identified. Personal data covers obvious information such as your name and contact details, but it also covers less obvious information such as identification numbers, electronic location data, and other online identifiers.
When you use our websites, our platforms or sign up to our services, we may collect some or all of the following personal data (this may vary according to your relationship with us):
- Title
- Name and surname;
- Nationality
- Year of birth;
- Gender;
- (Work) Address;
- Email address;
- Telephone number;
- Business name;
- Job title;
- Profession;
- Payment information;
- Information about your research preferences and interests.
For "in-person" event organisation, we may collect the following:
- Information on any food allergies;
- Photos of people taken at the event (provided – where necessary – you have given your consent to such photos being taken and published).
These personal data are processed in order to allow us to provide you with the requested services (e.g. membership registration or registration for one of our events), to be able to handle your requests (e.g. to answer the queries addressed to us via the contact form) or because it is in our legitimate business interest to do so. Hence, your data are processed on the legal basis existing in the necessity to be able to perform a contract we have (or will engage in) with you, on the basis of your consent or on the basis of our overriding legitimate business interest.
Some of the abovementioned information is mandatory to provide (which will always be indicated appropriately). If you fail to provide us with such mandatory information, we will not be able to provide you with the requested services.
In addition to the information mentioned above, our websites also may collect personal data about you through the use of cookies or other similar technologies. To read all about the cookies or other similar technologies we use on our websites, what they are used for and how you can prevent them from being placed on your device, we kindly refer to our Cookie Notice here.
Where we process your personal data for direct marketing purposes on the basis of your consent, you have the right to withdraw such consent at any time (opt-out). You can exercise this right be using the unsubscribe button in the email, by changing the preferences in your account or by sending an email to the following address: firstname.lastname@example.com
4. How Do You Use My Personal Data?
Your personal data may be used for the following purposes:
- Providing and managing the services we provide to you, such as membership, platform use and event registration.
- Communicating with you. This may include responding to emails or calls from you.
- Supplying you with information that you have opted-in to (you may unsubscribe or opt-out at any time)
- Evaluating, managing and updating our websites.
We have taken all reasonable and suitable technical and organizational measures in order to protect your personal data as well as possible against accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorized disclosure of, or access to, personal data.
Your personal information will also be treated as strictly confidential at all times.
5. How Long Will You Keep My Personal Data?
We will not keep your personal data for any longer than is necessary for the purpose for which it has been collected or for as long as legally required. The length of time we keep your data for may vary depending on the activity it relates to.
In the event that no legal obligation to store your personal data exists, your personal data shall be erased on a routine basis once the purpose for which the personal data is collected has been achieved.
Most of your personal information will be retained by us for a period of maximum 10 years following the end of our membership relationship with you.
We may store your personal data for longer if you have given us your consent to do so or where such storage is necessary for the establishment, exercise or defense of legal claims. In this last instance, certain personal data may be used for evidence purposes.
6. How and Where Do You Store or Transfer My Personal Data?
We will in principle only store or transfer your personal data within the European Economic Area (the "EEA"). The EEA consists of all EU member states, plus Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. This means that your personal data will be fully protected under the GDPR or to equivalent standards by law.
Should it nevertheless be necessary to transfer your personal data outside of the EEA, we will take measures to ensure that your personal information is protected at all times (for example, signed standard contractual clauses).
7. Do You Share My Personal Data?
We may sometimes contract with selected third parties to supply services to you on our behalf. In some cases, those third parties may require access to some or all of your personal data that we hold.
If any of your personal data is required by a third party, as described above, we will take steps to ensure that your personal data is handled safely, securely, and in accordance with your rights, our obligations, and the third party's obligations under the law. Such third party service providers shall in principle only process your personal information as data processors acting on our behalf and we will take appropriate measures to ensure that an contract has been signed with them so that they respect similar privacy standards as the ones set out in this Privacy Notice.
In some limited circumstances, we may be legally required to share certain personal data, which might include yours, if we are involved in legal proceedings or complying with legal obligations, a court order, or the instructions of a government authority.
Personal data that is voluntarily disclosed on any (third party) bulletin boards or in chat areas accessible to other users of our website could potentially be collected by such users and/or disclosed to third parties. We cannot accept any liability is for such collection and disclosure.
8. What Are Your Rights in relation to Your Personal Data?
Under the GDPR, you have the following rights, which we will always work to uphold in as far as the conditions for the exercise of such rights are fulfilled:
a) The right to be informed about our collection and use of your personal data.
b) The right to access the personal data we hold about you.
c) The right to have your personal data rectified if any of your personal data held by us is inaccurate or incomplete.
d) The right to be forgotten, i.e. the right to ask us to delete or otherwise dispose of any of your personal data that we have.
e) The right to restrict (i.e. prevent) the processing of your personal data.
f) The right to object to us using your personal data for a particular purpose or purposes.
g) The right to data portability. This means that, if you have provided personal data to us directly, we are using it with your consent or for the performance of a contract, and that data is processed using automated means, you can ask us for a copy of that personal data to re-use with another service or business.
To exercise any of these rights, please address your request to us in writing, using the email address shown in Part 9. Please note that you can exercise some of the rights mentioned above (e.g. the right to rectification and the right to deletion) directly yourself via the membership portal.
There is normally no charge for such request. However, if your request is manifestly unfounded or excessive (for example, if you make repetitive requests) a fee may be charged to cover our administrative costs in responding.
In order to verify your identity, we ask you to enclose a copy of the front of your identity card with each request. After verifying your identity, we will destroy such copy. If your identity can correctly be verified, we will assess your request to see whether all conditions have been fulfilled and whether we can indeed grant your request.
In any case, we will respond to your request within one month of receiving it. Normally, we aim to provide a complete response within that time. In some cases, however, particularly if your request is more complex, more time may be required up to a maximum of three months from the date we receive your request. You will be kept fully informed of our progress.
If you have any cause for complaint about our use of your personal data, you also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Belgian supervisory authority through http://www.privacycommission.be/
9. How Can You Contact Us?
To contact us about anything to do with your personal data and data protection, including to make a subject access request, please contact the General Manager: email@example.com
10. Changes to this Privacy Notice
We may change this Privacy Notice from time to time. This may be necessary, for example, if the law changes, or if we change our business in a way that affects personal data protection. The latest version of this Privacy Notice will be published on our websites.


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Photo Surfaces is a small collection of ready to ship, lightweight photo surfaces for food & product photography, inspired by walls and wonders seen around the world, and made with intention. All surfaces are one of a kind, true to the photos, and are ready to ship. SHOP ALL SURFACES →
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ABIDJAN, 5 décembre 2012 (IRIN) - L'adoption par le Parlement ivoirien d'une loi sur l'égalité au sein des couples mariés a provoqué la colère de certains habitants, notamment parmi les plus religieux. Selon eux, cette loi va créer plus de problèmes au sein des foyers qu'elle ne va en résoudre.
ABIDJAN, 4 December 2012 (IRIN) - The adoption by Côte d'Ivoire's parliament of a law on equality between legally married couples has sparked anger, especially among religious people. For them, this law will create more problems in the home than it will solve.
On National Women's Day, UN Women congratulates the Government and people of Tunisia on their leadership in women's empowerment and gender equality.Calls on the Tunisian people and Government to continue championing gender equality in the constitutional revision process.
Thousands of Tunisians have rallied to protest against what they see as a push by the Islamist-led government for constitutional changes that would degrade women's status in one of the Arab world's most liberal nations.
(WNN) Beirut, LEBANON: A new Lebanon based human rights and equality initiative is now partnering with men to reach the goal as advocates for equality of the sexes in the Middle East region and beyond. To do this ABAAD – Resource Center for Gender Equality in Beirut has partnered with the IMC – International Medical Corps to bring a new and innovative approach to advocacy – by bringing men into the mix with programs, including TV commercials, aimed to help men deal with anger management as part of their commitment to improving violence in society.To find out more, WNN – Women News Network reporter Elahe Amani interviewed ABAAD director Ghida Anani, along with Anthony Keedi, Director of ABAAD's new 'Men Center' which is located in Lebanon's capital city of Beirut.
This document is the consorted effort of the Coordination Francaise pour le Lobby Europeen des Femmes, femix Sports, Regards de femmes, European Women's Lobby, One Law for All, Conseil National des Femmes Francaise, Federation of GAY GAMES. Directed mainly at the Olympic movement in hope that London would mark the turning point, the demand is to end all gender-based discrimination and stereotypes!
This document is the concerted effort of the Coordination Francaise pour le Lobby Europeen des Femmes, femix Sports, Regards de femmes, European Women's Lobby, One Law for All, Conseil National des Femmes Francaise, Federation of GAY GAMES. Directed mainly at the Olympic movement in hope that London would mark the turning point, the demand is to end all gender-based discrimination and stereotypes!
New legislation being proposed in Indonesia has created a stir of antagonism, especially from conservative Islamist groups in the country, who demand that Islamic law, or Sharia, is implemented and followed in the country.
We, the undersigned organisations and individuals across the globe, are alarmed and disappointed that the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) failed to adopt agreed conclusions at its 56th session. This failure has diminished the considerable work, energy, time and costs that women all over the world invested on the 56th session of the CSW. The advancement of women's human rights should not be put on hold because of political battles between states. We say NO to any re-opening of negotiations on the already established international agreements on women's human rights and call on all governments to demonstrate their commitments to promote, protect and fulfill human rights and fundamental freedoms of women.
A new council for women's rights was established in Egypt a year after the Jan. 25 2011 revolution. Although it was harshly attacked by political activists for retaining the ideals of the wife of the former dictator, it is an important institution that works to protect the rights of women. It is perhaps the only official institution that attempts to give a voice to women, who are marginalized daily in the new Egypt, with many sectors attempting to sideline them from any vital role either socially or politically.


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Welcome to the end of yet another year, with the promise that somehow, tomorrow will be different.
Numerically, at least.
Assuming we all get there.
Think of New Years Eve as the world championships of over-drinking. And almost everyone is in on the competition.
A lot of people will have the day off, and may start drinking — and yes, driving — by midday; others will get off from work early and head straight for the nearest bar, if they don't start drinking at lunch.
From noon on, you can safely assume many, if not most, of the drivers you see will have had one or more for the road. And if you ride tonight, assume every motorist on the streets will have been drinking, if not actually drunk.
You won't be far off.
So ride carefully, and extra defensively, at all times.
And no, I'm not kidding. I want to see you back here next year, in one piece.
If you're going out tonight, walk, take a cab or catch a free ride on any Metro bus or train. Or if you insist on driving, consider a free tow to get back home.
Or ride a bike.
Yes, drunk bicycling is illegal here in California. But the penalty is nowhere near as stiff as a DUI, and won't count against your license.
Granted, you might kill yourself riding home under the influence.
But at least you're not likely to take anyone with you, unlike those who insist on pouring themselves behind the wheel.
And no, I have no sympathy for anyone who gets busted for DUI.
And a hell of a lot less for anyone who kills or injures another person because they've been drinking.
Seriously, don't be that guy. Or girl.
Apathy may be the biggest obstacle facing L.A.'s 2013 mayoral candidates; at least one voter wants more bike lanes in Wilmington. The Army Corps of Engineers unexpectedly razes a section of the Sepulveda Basin, a popular Valley biking destination. The Bicycle Kitchen wants your help deciding what color to paint itself. If only more merchants realized their customers don't always come by car. C.I.C.L.E. hosts a class for traffic-averse cyclists next month. Memorable things happen when you ride a bike. Friends hold a successful Frisbee golf fundraiser for injured Canyon Country cyclist Kevin Korenthal. A new DMV study shows unlicensed and suspended drivers are three times as likely to cause a fatal crash. Carlsbad cyclists are startled to see Superman flying past — yes, Superman. The joys of riding at night. Cyclelicious is giving away books on bikes starting Wednesday.
Bicycling lists five things cyclists should have in their cars; bike riders need cars? Turns out Kirsten Dunst is one of us. Baton Rouge has tripled its bike lane mileage in just three years; I don't think they had any when I lived down there a few decades back. Memphis aims to be friendly to bikes as well as blues. A cyclist is killed in the other Hollywood on Sunday. Three cyclists rammed by a car in South Florida last week say it could have been a lot worse. Tampa Bay sees a big jump in bicycling deaths this year. Continuing today's Florida theme, a cyclist is intentionally pushed to the ground by a bike lane-walking pedestrian.
Riding a bike on Sunday was once seen as a road straight to hell. The UK needs to maintain momentum now that cycling is reaching critical mass (lower case, please), even while the country sees soaring sales of black market bicycles. British cyclists move a house by bike. Cyclists push for road safety in Greenwich. Leicestershire drivers ignore an injured cyclist lying on the roadside. Walking and biking are on a dangerous arc in Scotland, as fatalities could soon surpass those of motor vehicles within a few years.
Finally, helmets are evidently now required for every waking activity. And an Italian judge says cyclists are scruple-less, because we cheat and steal low-quality drugs. So make a resolution this year to only steal top-of-the-line pharmaceuticals.
You're worth it.


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Wine importer Febvre has operated in Ireland for over 50 years, representing some big brands and others not as well known. Here is a selection of the wines I enjoyed at their recent tasting event:
Frères Laffitte Le Petit Gascoûn Blanc 2016 (11.5%, RRP €13.50 at Malthouse, Trim; Grapevine, Ballymun; Ennis Gourmet Store)
If the image on the bottle doesn't give away its origin, then the name of the wine certainly does – Le Petit Gascoûn comes from Gascony in South West France. The white is a blend of Colombard and Ugni Blanc – the latter rarely seen in a table wine in France, though it's a mainstay of Armagnac and Cognac. It's a highly aromatic wine with peach, pineapple and lychees on the nose, with those notes continuing on the palate, rounded off by a fresh, crisp finish. Fantastic value for money.
Herdade de Esporão Monte Velho Alentejo Branco 2015 (13.5%, RRP €13.95 at On the Grapevine, Dalkey; 1601, Kinsale)
As with many Portuguese wines, unless you're very familiar with the country's wines you might not have heard of the constituent grapes of this wine: Antão Vaz, Roupeiro and Perrum. I assure you that they are genuine grape names and not just a lot of randomly assembled letters! (Plus, Perrum is the Portuguese name for Andalusia's Pedro Ximénez.) There's lots of texture and flavour here, stone fruits with a herbal edge. It's pleasant drinking on its own, but I'd imagine wonderful with tarragon chicken.
Château de Tracy Pouilly-Fumé 2015 (13.0%, RRP €29.95 at Whelehans Wines, Loughlinstown; Jus de Vin, Portmarnock; The Corkscrew, Chatham St)
On the opposite site of the Loire from Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé isn't quite as famous and is only around half the size. For me, the wines of Pouilly-Fumé are more consistent, however, possibly due to fewer négotiants trading on the reputation of the appellation rather than the quality of their wine. Château de Tracy is a serious contender for best producer on the right bank, and this wine shows why: supple, concentrated fruit with no hard edges, full of fresh grapefruit and gooseberry. Just delicious!
Lawson's Dry Hills Marlborough Riesling 2014 (12.5%, RRP €19.95 at On the Grapevine, Dalkey; Lilac Wines, Fairview)
Tucked out of the way just south east of Blenheim, Lawson's Dry Hills is one of Marlborough's relatively unheralded family wineries, but produces some excellent wines – I'm still holding on to my last few bottles of their 2008 Chardonnay which is stunning. Their Riesling has been a firm favourite of mine for at least a decade. This 2014 is developing nicely and, while still showing primary lime, lemon and elderflower notes, is also starting to give some lovely petrol aromas. Just off-dry with 8.2g/L of residual sugar, it's a lovely summer tipple on its own or with plenty of different recipes.
d'Arenberg the Hermit Crab Viognier Marsanne 2015 (13.1%, RRP €16.95 at O'Briens Wines; Gerrys, Skerries; SuperValu; Egans, Portlaoise; Bradleys, Cork)
d'Arenberg are one of the few McLaren Vale producers who use traditional basket presses and other traditional techniques for gentler handling of the fruit and therefore better wine. The Hermit Crab is from their "Originals" range and is a blend of two white Rhône grapes; 58% Viognier and 42% Marsanne for the 2015 vintage. While the Viognier is the senior partner in the blend, it doesn't dominate the wine with overblown floweriness and oiliness (though some might like that) due to the cool fermentation process which reins in those aspects. It has tangy peach and apricot with subtle nuts, herbs and spice. Well worth a try if you fancy something different!
Jordan Barrel-Fermented Chardonnay 2015 (13.5%, RRP €20.50 at Martins, Fairview & Londis, Malahide)
Somewhat confusingly there are two prominent Jordans – Jordan Wine Estate of Stellenbosch (South Africa) and Jordan Vineyard & Winery of Alexander Valley (California). This is most definitely the former, run by husband and wife team Gary and Kathy Jordan since 1993. They also produce an unoaked Chardonnay which is nice, but this is the real McCoy, the full Monty, the..[ok I'll stop there] of which 92% is fermented in Burgundian 228L pièces (the remainder tank fermented). The wine was also matured for nine months in a mixture of barrels (45% new, 30% second-fill and 25% third-fill) for texture as well as flavour. It's not over the top, but it is fairly oaky – and I love it! there's plenty of buttered toast from the the oak but also pineapple and racy citrus flavours – a well balanced wine!


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The spirit of a legend.
The Paris-Dakar Rally is legendary, just like the people and machines that competed in it. Joy Lewis explores the early days of the epic desert rally in the cities where the race started and finished. Her two companions: Hubert Auriol, who won the Paris-Dakar Rally twice with BMW in the 80s; and the R nineT Urban G/S – a motorcycle whose design is reminiscent of the legendary R 80 G/S.
One glance at the Urban G/S, and the 1980s come alive – the early days of the rallies and desert racers, when Hubert Auriol and Gaston Rahier set out to experience the adventure of their lives between Paris and Dakar. The success of the two off-road heroes of that time is closely linked to the R 80 G/S, a dual-sport machine that became immortal thanks to the Paris-Dakar Rally.
The iconic bike is still passing on its genes today and is also the source of inspiration for the new R nineT Urban G/S. While it clearly belongs to the R nineT family in terms of riding characteristics and innovative technology, its looks are reminiscent of the R 80 G/S: white body elements, the narrow, slightly longer red seat, raised front wheel cover and headlamp mask. It's time to explore the early days of the rally in Paris and Dakar on the Urban G/S.
Visiting Hubert Auriol
With the Urban G/S through Paris, passing the Place du Trocadéro, the famous starting point of the Paris-Dakar Rally.
Joy rides the Urban G/S straight across Paris. On the right bank of the Seine, she passes the Place du Trocadéro, which extends from the Eiffel Tower to the river bank. In 1978, almost 200 motorsport enthusiasts embarked on the first Paris-Dakar Rally from this square. They would ride 10,000 kilometres across Algeria, Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso to Senegal. One of the adventurers was Hubert Auriol, who was 25 years old at the time. Back then, he had no idea that he would win the desert races multiple times and have a significant impact on the cult status of the BMW GS.
Joy Lewis has arranged a meeting with Hubert Auriol in his loft in Paris.
Some 40 years later, Joy Lewis pulls up to Hubert's Paris loft on an Urban G/S. Inside, pictures, trophies, old motorsport magazines and helmets from that era show just how much the rally has shaped Hubert's life. Joy can't wait to ask him all the questions that have been going through her head on the ride through Paris. "I thought I'd have to curb my curiosity. Instead, Hubert was eager to tell me his story. I soaked up every word he said". As Hubert talks, his eyes betray the unquenchable thirst for adventure that still drives the 64-year-old today just as it did back then.
Trophies, helmets, pictures: Hubert's past of rally racing.
Hubert spoke of the 26th of December 1978, when his dream of riding to Africa came true when he joined the Paris-Dakar Rally. A journey that changed his life more than he could have ever imagined. "I wanted to experience something extraordinary during the rally, and then it turned my whole life upside down. Even after I returned, all I thought about was the trip, and suddenly I realized: that's living"! Joy has no idea how long they've been talking. She feels like she was actually in the rally with him. "When Hubert tells his stories, I know that the right way to live is to simply do things instead of just dreaming about them".
Between the ocean and the desert
In Dakar, deep black asphalt gives way to dark-red gravel.
Paris and Dakar could hardly be more different, Joy thinks, as she travels with Hubert through the Senegalese capital. Deep-black asphalt gives way to reddish-brown gravel, which soon turns into a patchwork of pot holes. If the streets of downtown Dakar look like this, imagine the road conditions in the country, or in the desert that riders crossed in the Paris-Dakar Rally. "Nothing has changed since then", says Hubert, looking relieved. "Maybe a few new buildings and streets have sprung up. But the atmosphere is the same. The people are still enthusiastic and friendly. "Ah! You are back in your country", they often say, as if I was one of them", he says.
The ride with the Urban G/S through Dakar evokes strong memories in Hubert Auriol.
Joy is inspired by Hubert's enthusiasm for Senegal and its people; by the emotions that the rally brings up in him. "As the destination of the rally, Senegal is a special place. The people are so happy and cheer you on so joyfully. This is the right atmosphere for a finale". He climbs on the Urban G/S, which reminds him of his R 80 G/S from the eighties. The boxer that he rode to victory in the toughest desert race in the world in 1981 and 1983. "This bike triggers big emotions in me. I have a lot of very good associations with the BMW motorsport colours and I am happy that the legacy of the R 80 G/S continues to this day". Hubert steers the bike just like a local through "his" Dakar, Joy follows him reverently.
Riding between herds of goats and honking Taxis: this is Dakar.
They manoeuvre their motorcycles past colourful buses and honking taxis; past rattling carts pulled by donkeys. Traffic comes to a standstill at the Place de l'Indépendance as a farmer crosses the road with his herd of goats. This is where the festivities took place after the rally. "The square was overflowing with people and the streets were completely jammed. It took us hours to get to the podium for the award ceremony", says Hubert. Every single moment is a reminder that the speed of life is different in Africa. Time to downshift and take a look around this exotic place in West Africa.
A short break in the city that has all the time in the world.
The Senegalese capital tells an endless story between the ocean and the desert. The peninsula is surrounded by the Atlantic ocean on three sides. And even though the steppes begin right beyond the city, Dakar is still tropical and humid, and its soil is fertile. Between green park oases, construction sites dominate the cityscape; although it's not clear whether buildings are being demolished or built. Simple huts are situated alongside mighty hotel buildings. Colourful market stalls are set up in front of grey concrete buildings. Hubert and Joy take a break at a beach restaurant. A brass plaque on the restaurant's "Wall of Fame" shows how much Hubert Auriol is revered in Dakar. His name shines alongside pop stars of the eighties such as the French singer Dalida or Stevie Wonder.
Between red ground and red sky alongside the coast of Dakar.
They continue on the Route de la Corniche Ouest, riding northwards along the coast. Joy owns an original R 80 G/S Paris-Dakar and can hardly believe that she's tracing the route of the rally with one of the heroes from those days. "I try to make sure there's always enough adventure in my life. Hubert's story shows me that that's the right way to live". Joy would like to hold on to this moment. Red earth surrounds them, blending seamlessly into the red sunset over the Atlantic. From here they have a magnificent view of the city whose silhouette flickers in the evening light. The time seems to stand still in the city which has all the time in the world.
Hubert Auriol
Dream destination Lac Rose
Worn-out wooden boats line the shore at Lac Rose.
The silence stands out. It intensifies the moment and the feeling that you get just looking at the pink lake. Lac Rose – a dream destination. World-famous as the final destination of the Paris-Dakar Rally. Here, 30 kilometres northeast of the bustling capital of Senegal, the world is different. "Lac Rose is magical", says Joy, full of awe, as she and Hubert arrive at the lake. Decrepit wooden boats line the shore. Farmers cruise across the lake to collect salt from the bottom. Beyond the samphire bushes, dunes rise up on the narrow corridor between the lake and the Atlantic.
The moments at the very end of the rally Paris-Dakar have engraved themselves into Hubert's memory.
"When we arrived here after the rally, there was nothing left of the silence", says Hubert, laughing. "There were people everywhere cheering and celebrating us like stars. That moment was so memorable after all the hardships, doubts and difficulties during the race". Hubert's experiences are still ever-present for him even though they're so far in the past. They're burned into his memory. Not only that, they have shaped his life and made him and the Paris-Dakar Rally a legend.