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What one change have you seen have the biggest impact on reservation frequency/duration. Good or bad!
What one change have you seen have the biggest impact on reservation frequency/duration. Good or bad! I have personally found artistic photographs on OTAs can have a big sway over some customers. I'd love to hear about any successful oportunity centre opt ins which have gone well, does free cancellation really improve reservation, what about book now pay no deposit? Thanks in advance 😁
Hello Steven,
I can do a list for what I've experienced so far.
Good and extremely good:
- 40% off BDC Deal of the Day
- no credit card required for last minute bookings
- no deposit required, ever
- non-refundable rates with a good discount
- rates without breakfast
- classified ads
What went wrong or was utterly horrible:
- social media promotions, bunch of money wasted for nothing
- no credit card required for bookings
- no clear cancellation policies
- guests not confirming arrival times
- letting guests book directly after they've booked and cancelled through an online channel. This can go so horribly wrong when he scams the hotel and channel.
Hope these help,
Zsolt - www.thuild.com
Hi Steven
Know your own niche and your customers. Every place has different niche and customers and what work for others might work or not work for you. Spend time with your customers and talk with them so you know what they want and what they do not like.
We have very strict policy of non refundable and full deposit and we are perfectly fine with our booking. We rely on social media promotions as our niche is youngsters with age range between 18 - 25 years old that use socmed and we have more bookings than other places with similar niches in our area. So know your own strength and weaknesses are the key. Sell things what your customers want not what you want.
Hi Steven,
Zsolt makes a fair amount of Excellent points that I agree with.
Pita Lie says it right, it will depend on what type of property you have, who is working for you, how large the property is etc. For instance Arrival times has very little impact on me but it impacts Zsolt or partners who have Guesthouses/B&B's. We have security guards at the gate that can assist 24/7 but we prefer that the clients make arrangements if they will be too late to catch the Check In time.
Ons Major change:
As our property has many chalets and have several clubs/platforms booking for the same resort it's not wise for us to accept bookings without credit cards on the day of check in. So I've made the "smart choice" by disabling the option for our guests to make a reservation without a Credit card thinking that this will make getting payment and cancelling false bookings much easier. WOW Did I experience a Massive decrease in bookings. And what I noticed was that some of the bookings coming through with a card is also not 100% solid, even though it is much easier to cancel it if it was made with a credit card.
Needless to say ...I will be righting my wrong soon, enabling 'no card required' bookings and returning to my old ways with my tail between my legs. At least I've learnt a Very nifty procedure that Booking.com has in place for us to cancel such bookings should we not get payment.
All in a day's work.
Keep well all!
very interesting topic.
I have had more bookings since giving a discount to single travelers.
I rent a villa in a very touristic area in Greece with very high competition from other similar properties in the area.
What I have noticed from experience or from my guests comments that has given me an advantage over the competition is first of all professional photos and having hired a decorator and choosing the most special artistic photo for the profile.
If you see my property in booking.com listings among all other similar properties in the area, it will stick out. It's not the usual photo of a swimming pool or sun terrace or stone house that are like a dime a dozen.
Secondly offering for at least 3 months before, a big discount to guests who stay for at least 5 days (not in the high season of August). Most owners near here only offer at last minute or at most a month before these offers.
Thirdly not allowing anymore last minute or local area bookings without credit card has saved me a lot of trouble with no shows.
With the booking.com programms I have noticed that leaving the Genius program has improved the quality of my guests and joining the PPP I can't overstate how much it has helped even after elevating the price to compensate for the 20% commision.
If you are a small businness owner my advice is to have a photo as your main to stick out among the crowd. Even if it's a simple beautiful photo of let's say a pink hat in the sun lol. Guests have been browsing all the listings with all similar appearances and grow apathetic at some point, you want them to click on your property even out of curiosity. Grab the attention. :)
Thanks for sharing these tips SaKats! We have thread going on about professional photography that you might like.
And do feel free to share photos of your property - the community would love to see them! :)
Sakats you have a point about pictures. I have a picture of a little lamb and my guest are very anxious to have a look as soon as they arrive!!!
I just recently did the rates without breakfast.
It came from around 10 guests who ate like locusts. They all sat down for about 2 hours and ate amounts I did not think was humanely possible,
I am doing this many years and I never limit breakfast, I would even do up packs for guests on red eyes. We are extremely generous with what we provide.
But after I had 2 guests who got bags and emptied every cereal container, took 2 fresh loaves of bread, 4 new tins of coffee, 8 yogurts, 3 types of cheese, 3 packs of smoked/regular ham, bowl of fresh fruit, 8 chocolate croissants and 8 brioche, 3 packs of crackers, 2 packs of rice cakes, 3 different types of tea, 4 different jars of chocolate spread, 30 packs of jams, 30 packs of butter and I think it was 8 homemade scones and homemade chocolate/walnut cake (the whole thing ). After this fabulous mother and son, I have just stopped breakfast, if you want it, now you pay for it. Am still a tad annoyed by these pair, they paid 40 a night ( price was incorrect but I accepted as am a nice host) They also took all the tea/coffee out of their rooms.
It was an eye opener and I don't give free food anything anymore, except for complimentary tray in the rooms
Wow, amazing. Did they also bring home toilet paper and towels?
That's why I believe that every additional service must have a charge. Then people understand those rates with or without breakfast.
And something from my own experience, when I was a Guest. Housekeeping even approached me, if I would like more free toiletries? It means I will pay, and they will load me with everything they have. What does it mean? No supervision.
And I experienced that when the happy hour is not finished yet, the staff will not give you wine and even food. Different kinds of excuses. Too much of supervision.
All those situations happened in 5 star hotels and were generously paid. In second case, I stayed for 1 month and paid for lounge, not to mention other things.
And I am very sorry to say... It's just telling you my experiences, not to blame anyone, but the worth review in my hosting life I got from "mother +son"...
30 packs of jams and 30 packs of butter? Wow. They definitely took advantage of you.
If you combine all those things were stolen, how much is this?
I am surprised they didnt even steal the plates and the forks while they were at it. Amazing
Unfortunately as Katerinka said when something is free people take advantage of it with no consideration.
cassid ,
Wow, sorry that happened to you! Thanks for sharing though. It really makes me think of vultures. Still picking the bones clean after they are full. Makes me think of another small change I've picked up on...
So the new change is not influencing bookings dramatically but I can see the reaction. Our one resort normally had a smallish Key and Breakage deposit which we have increased to a signigicantly higher amount. This was due to more and more incidents occuring where guests behave badly and then refuse to cough up the money to repair the damages.
So far I get a lot of Cancellation requests After I have processed the payment and sent them the confirmation letter where the amount for the deposit is shown. Their reactions are astounding! And all I can tell them is that, if they don't break anything then they get it back. It's a deposit. I'm not talking about breaking a drinking glass or a plate, I advise them that should they not burn the place down and dance on the smoldering ashes, they will get their money back (perhaps not so dramatic but it needs to be a Severely and Blatantly disrespectful action that will prompt us to keep the deposit).
I have it on the Fine Print (I realised no one really reads it considering the reactions I get from the guests), but my new Reservation Process now included asking the guest if they saw the amount of the key and breakage deposit Before we proceed with payment.
Very nice Topic Stevenrudge
At my apartment guests took away hair drier, iron (twice) coffe maker . . Bad experience
There's an inverse relationship between minimum stay and the total number of guests who book. If you need more money and don't mind more work, ;make your minimum stay one night. If you don't need so much money or work, make it a three night minimum.
A big boost for us has been to allow small indoor animals. Yes, people take advantage and their opinion of what small is may differ to what I perceive small to be. Yes, there is a bit more cleaning to do (mainly animal hair) but really there is no trace that a dog or a cat has resided in the room.
SaKats (above) wrote about the value of the PPP program. Not sure what that is. Can someone explain, please?
Hey Weigelt
All you need to know about the Preferred partner programme <- there is a nice article for you to read about it.
And here is a thread: Preferred Partner Programme which might prove interesting to continue your thoughts. .
Let's not hijack this post :-P
Wow Cassie that's theft.Im stunned, only had 4 matching cushions stolen so far but why??????they were a set of 6.
Joey I provide high end toiletries for all guests and expect them to take them home, but since I stopped putting them in a gift basket most people do not even use them.The nice me that gave everyone a little gift basket gave up....however I buy a gift for nice guests who are really a pleasure, I gave a tin of short bread in a London bus to a girl recently she was delighted.......I'm sick of offering wine or beer to people who do not drink....it's a minefield....easier with return guests.....2 Americans went to Harry and Meghansvwedding and forget their souvenirs which I have kept for their next trip in December.whats the funniest thing you all have had left behind by a guest?
"Now I send a reminder about the security deposit on the day they are due to arrive."
Is it also in your listing? Fine print? Do guests complain about the time of the notice, which is the due date to arrive? Meaning cancelation is not possible?
Sara, it is so nice of you to provide high end toiletries as I understand your place is not 5 stars. I keep all those memories in form of toiletries from 5 stars hotels, but life goes on. I never came back to those places with exception of chain hotels.
Joey uses the same word as my caretaker - "normal". She says its normal to steal towels. That's after I bought luxury towels.
I think towels are just so easy to steal. They don't need much space,it's easy to find even into ladies purse. They are not too expensive for many people. If you will tell to police that your towels worth of 100 euros, they will not understand. Also, there is very easy escape. If caught, guest will say: oh, I took it by mistake. I brought my towels too. I thought it was mine.
What do you think of putting an embroidery with your hotel name? Do you think it will prevent theft?
Thanks for the detailed explanation. We are working now on policies, so please expect many questions from me :)
Putting an embroidery will not stop stealing but somehow can minimize that? Would anyone enjoy to worry of being caught with carrying someone else's towels just because there is a name on it, which already a proof that this item belongs to someone else.
And how about branding? Being professional? Embroidery doesn't cost much...
Nice thought! The bottom line is.. If they want to steal, they will steal
Hi Joey ,
lol well done. Yeh, we literally have ATM's on some of our resorts and the clients still refuse sometimes. But then it's very easy, if you refuse to pay then we refuse that you stay.
I would like to throw my towel-opion in here. All of our resorts have branded towels. At the security gate the guards sometimes do spot checks, and it will be very clear to see if the guest took one of our towels. Yes, sometimes the one car that the guards didn't check will have taken a towel but you buy it in bulk. So then it's not that expense. (Keep in mind, I'm talking from the point of view of large resorts).
Keep well!
Not sure how much your towels cost, but I never had a single one stolen before. Hope to keep it like this.
Actually, we only had a USB charger stolen once, that's all in the almost 2 years since we function.
Guests left more here than the value of that USB charger :)
My towels are of a premium quality and I got them really cheap because I also bought them bulk and directly from the source, so a big 140x70 cm towel cost us $6.
However, I do provide the guests with 25 toiletries and accessories (mostly accessories). So they have about everything they would need. Only twice it happened that someone took all of it. These are all included in the price so it seems that my guests don't like taking things.
Zsolt - www.thuild.com
I agree with Katerinka12 if they want to steal they will steal. Guests like that.
Did that happen to you? I hope no! Please, share your experience
Its amazing how we take good care of the guests... In my apartments you can find toiletries both for man and woman. Different size - from small to big. Big choice of tea, as I am a tea lover. It's hard to get tea in this country, but foreigners think it's normal thing to provide. Basics for cooking such as oil, salt and spices. Sugar, of course. I don't advertise these things, but no one ever left me review or thank you note for that. When we had luxury towels (forgive me I keep mentioning this), no one said thank you for that. I was hoping to get nice bath robes and... What for? I could remember the face of the guests when they arrived they said: wow! Oh l, my God.. And they were not young. Yet, no one of them left any kind of review.
If you don't know... When I travel, the housekeeping offers me for a small tip ANY amount of free toiletries. That's why you need a proper accounting for everything.
Great to hear you love the tea. So, now it's complete - tea, wine and budget for beer :)
My caretaker gets tips. Sometimes it's very cultural thing, to give or not to give tips. She said she gets them often. Those real businessmen and real frequent travelers do realize that having a personal butler in other countries will cost them huge money. So they give tips instead :)
Dear forum members, how many stars do you have? As Booking branded my units with 2 stars, I realized that I went too far offering luxury things that are more subject to be stolen rather than appreciated (especially in review).
My latest problem that the guests complain that shuttle is not our own and demand the shuttle wait for them personally in airport! I receive such "special request" once in 3 days.
I am also a tea lover and have a great selection of Greek herbs but since my place is opened fr April to October none of my guests prepare tea. They prefer coffee that for I offer a range of coffee brands.
Katerinka12 No nobody has stolen anything from my place. I hope it never does happen.
"Katerinka, I have no stars - am I supposed to have any?"
Well, I have never asked Booking to give me any stars. However, I see two circles near my property name.
If you are confused on how to find it, use filter with stars on the left. From there you will see where your property falls to... 2 stars or what stars..
"Katerinka12 No nobody has stolen anything from my place. I hope it never does happen."
I hope it will always be like that for you and fellow hosts - no stolen things!
As Zsolt said everything should be Preventive... As minimum it is keeping all the receipts of stuff you buy. As maximum it's insurance. And photos are the must. That will work with Airbnb asking for refund for stolen things, though not guaranteed outcome. They have requirements that hard to meet.
As for Booking, taking security deposit should solve the problem. And hosts performance such as inspection during check out, proper identity check of the guest and overall taking the risks.
I think it is a bad idea to have embroidery on the towels. It will encourage stealing as souvenirs instead of preventing it unless you do checks on their luggage.
Some of the other villas here have had even spoons and pillow cases stolen..as "souvenirs". I have no idea how a spoon can be a souvenir but whatever.
For me 1 out of 3 guests steals the whole jar of thyme honey and 1 out of 5 the bottle of olive oil and homemade marmalade. Some do ask when they are leaving -having already taken it in their bags btw, and then there's no way to refuse them and make them take it out. Otherwise a horrible review will be guaranteed.
I have noticed that a certain nationality (not from east asia) takes also all the tea even if it's a full can, the tin of the espresso. coffees and everything you leave for them in the kitchen except the sugar and therefore after having it happen repeatedly and no matter the price cheap or more expensive high season, when I have guests from that country I put out the minimal quantities if not at all.
I don't want to be racistic but facts are facts!! Blame your compatriots who act like hungry wolves.
I have guests buy me a necklace as gift,a russian orthodox religious picture, summer flowers in a clay pot, teas and vodkas from their countries,postcards and lots of wines but they are ppl who usually have stayed a week+. Because I live next door I get close to my guests and sometimes I even offer them a free homemade dinner so it's their show of their appreciation but it's very rewarding to see that you are appreciated.
Sakats what a brilliant way to make money.......put your home made marmalade into little jars with a ribbon and a label of your listing.....and anything else you can make. With a polit note listing prices.I stay at an Air BBB in Spain where they make jams etc and I bought loads to give as gifts even honey etc......
I buy all butter jams etc from a wholesaler as individual portions same thing with soaps shampoo etc...and like I've a lot of you I'm a tea drinker.I offer breakfast tea and herb teas, coffee I offer either instant like Joey or nesspresso pods that are single use only, even peanut butter is sold in single wrapped packs.If you have monogrammed bathrobes, do the same as hotels offer them for sale to be added to the bill.
There is a reason why hotels give small portioned everything.
When you portion things, you don't get stolen on bulk, because it's impossible.
Find a company that provides small portioned things and put those for guests.
And as mentioned above, you can portion certain things yourself in small ramekins, so they cannot take them with themselves if they want to, because that is not suitable to pack.
Again and again, think preventively.
I don't have people stealing stuff because I make it hard for them. Simple as that.
Zsolt - www.thuild.com
When our brilliant Review score goes down dur to a poor score from a guest who tells lies and Booking.com refuses to remove it despite our proving to them the guest has lied.
That's when our bookings dip for a little while
Its takes us months to get our review score back up into the high 9's
Booking.com know what is wrong with the review system including anonoymous reviews,partners not being allowed to reply and lies from guests remaining
SADLY THE CEO ,MD and SENIOR MANAGEMENT DO NOT GIVE A DAMM ABOUT US !
( sorry about the strong language but others comments back me up 100% )
I have same problem
An B.D.C not take down the review she lied I write them that this lady..is not tell the truth all because
U don't let they have there own..the hook up a bad review..
Well, in India when you check into the 5 star hotel, they scrutinise all of your things. And when you go to the the mall, the female should go the special area where she will be touched by security guards (females) to check if she carries anything illegal. That's how they take care of security.
As for Zsolt comment, it's brilliant. Nothing to add.
Theft is always a problem. We already use the small portioned toiletries, ancillary breakfast items and tea/coffee supplies.
We have also found it necessary to carefully check the rooms of checkouts before the guest leaves, for theft and breakage. Low season has been especially bad with us having to charge guests for the above, as per our policies displayed prominently at reception. The guest's check in form also includes a clause, standing out next to the signature box, agreeing to said policies.
It's a shame that we have found it necessary to protect our business this way, especially as short stays are the worst offenders so without it we would make a loss on such stays that offend.
Hey all,
Joey , totally understandable. We're used to it and it's good that you pointed that out from an international point of view. Some of our international guests might not be too happy if they get stopped and spot checked.
However, it's not as Thorough as Katerinka12 's explained they do in India. The guards will ask the guest to pop the trunk, take a gander (not opening any suitcases etc) and only if they see something suspicious will they ask the guest to pull over to the side for a proper search (which very rarely happens).
Feels like airport security to me :)
Anyway, best is to be able to charge guests for what they do, so you don't have to put them through all the shaming (even if they sometimes don't think that it might go that far).
Zsolt - www.thuild.com
Oh my god it seems very tight indeed. Even airports don't have such strict measures. I never have faced check control in any hotel I have visited around the world. I'm really surprised that this happens in South Africa.
South Africa has a long history of discrimination and racial conflicts. I am not surprised at all they have tight security. It's for the guest benefit anyway.
After terrorists attacks in any country any good hotel (5 stars) starts implementing very strict measures. Just recently I stayed in Istanbul and the security was also very tight.
Hi All,
Haha yes, this has sparked quite a reaction. Funny enough I think our security meassures are super mild. Probably because I'm used to much worse.
Before you can go into the sportpark (like Loftus) to watch rugby, you literally get frisked and all your possessions are packed out before they allow you to go through Heavily guarded (and very heavy) security gates.
Our resorts aren't that bad.
Yes Leandri you sparked me in the beginning but as Katerinka12 mentioned terrorists are all over the world. It's very natural that Hotels have implemented so strict measures.
try to control ur promotion depend on ur area and target customer base


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We can receive strength to do more than we realize.
In the summer of 2012, Palakiko C. had just graduated from high school in Hawaii, USA, and was looking forward to attending Brigham Young University and serving a mission. Palakiko had done a lot to prepare for his mission already—he had accompanied the full-time missionaries all day three times, and he often went with them to visit and teach the gospel to families.
One evening Palakiko and the missionaries began teaching a part-member family with five children, ages 8 to 14, who hadn't been baptized.
"We visited with them for six weeks," Palakiko says. "Each week, I saw their faith increase as we taught them doctrinal principles that would help them receive eternal life."
"When we obey the commandments of the Lord and serve His children unselfishly, the natural consequence is power from God—power to do more than we can do by ourselves." —Elder Richard G. Scott
Soon all five children had accepted the invitation to be baptized and asked Palakiko if he would perform the baptisms. He enthusiastically agreed. Baptizing them would be a privilege and an honor. But for Palakiko, there was a more difficult challenge: they also asked him to give a talk about the Holy Ghost at the baptismal service.
Palakiko was more than a little nervous. "How was I supposed to give a talk on a day that they would remember for the rest of their lives?" he asked. "What would I say?"
In spite of his anxiety, Palakiko knew he should do it, and he started preparing for his talk that very day.
"I did everything in my power to make sure everything would go well," he says. He prayed, read scriptures for guidance and comfort, and rehearsed the baptismal prayer in his mind. On the day of the service, the baptisms went fine. And as he gave his talk and focused on striving to have the Spirit, he felt guided in what to say.
"At no other time in my life have I felt the Spirit more than during that talk," Palakiko says. "I'm glad I was able to be an instrument in the Lord's hands."
Palakiko was able to do what he needed to do because he was strengthened by the grace, or enabling power, of the Atonement.
What Is the Enabling Power of Jesus Christ?
Because we all sin, we need to learn about and apply the principles of repentance, a core part of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Without the Savior's sacrifice, none of us could conquer sin and return to the presence of our Father.
Helping us overcome sin is one aspect of the Savior's grace. But there's another. Grace is defined as "divine help or strength … given through the mercy and love of God."1 By the grace of Jesus Christ, we can be strengthened to "do and be good and to serve beyond our own individual desire and natural capacity."2 As Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has explained, "The word grace frequently is used in the scriptures to connote a strengthening or enabling power."3
Palakiko was blessed by the grace of the Savior to accomplish something he felt inadequate to do on his own. That same power can help all of us in ways both small and great.
How Can We Access the Savior's Grace?
When we need guidance or support or strength, God can help us. But it depends on us too. We have to seek His help and be worthy of it.
As Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has said,"When we obey the commandments of the Lord and serve His children unselfishly, the natural consequence is power from God—power to do more than we can do by ourselves. Our insights, our talents, our abilities are expanded because we receive strength and power from the Lord."4
"If we exercise faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the enabling power of His Atonement strengthens us in our moment of need, and His redeeming power sanctifies us." —Elder Craig A. Cardon
This pattern can be seen in the life of Jasmine B. of Washington, USA, who received help in coping with a disease. Before contracting the disease, she was a healthy young woman who excelled on her high school track team and loved getting up early for seminary.
Then she started feeling ill. She lost 15 pounds very quickly, and no matter how much sleep she got, it became harder and harder to get up for seminary. She couldn't run as well as she used to and was hungry, thirsty, and weak all the time.
Over a month went by before she started to pray for help. "I held off so long," she says, "because the thought of praying for help was an act of submission, admitting that something was indeed wrong with me. It scared me."
But because she humbled herself to seek the Lord's help, answers started to come. She went to see a doctor, who discovered she had developed type 1 diabetes, which meant her body could not produce insulin to process sugar. Diabetes has lifelong consequences and must be carefully monitored. Even as the doctors developed a plan to help her manage her condition, she began to worry that she would not be able to continue running track.
"I never ceased to pray as I struggled to understand my new life and to control my disease," she says. "I prayed for strength and understanding and that I would be able to accept this trial. I would not have made it through those hard days and weeks without prayer."
Jasmine made incredible strides. Within two weeks of being diagnosed, she was back practicing on the track, and later that year she did well in state competitions. "I believe Heavenly Father has blessed me with a strong, healthy body," she says. "Having diabetes was not the end of the world. With His help, I knew I could get through this."
By the grace of God and through her dependence on Him, Jasmine is able to cope with her disease and have wonderful successes in her life.
Grace Is Available to Everyone
This same strengthening power, the grace of Christ, is available to all of us. Whenever you feel alone or overwhelmed or discouraged, remember that the Lord Jesus Christ makes His grace available to you.
As Elder Craig A. Cardon of the Seventy has explained, "If we exercise faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the enabling power of His Atonement strengthens us in our moment of need [see Jacob 4:7], and His redeeming power sanctifies us as we '[put] off the natural man' [Mosiah 3:19]. This brings hope to all, especially to those who feel that recurring human weakness is beyond the Savior's willingness to help and to save."5
Join the Conversation
Things You Might Do:
- Ponder on the times God has granted you grace and record these experiences in your journal.
- Set goals to stretch your abilities and take time to recognize the Savior's grace as you strive to reach your goals.
- Share your testimony and experiences with others at home, at school, at church, on social media, or by clicking on Share your experience below.
This article originally appeared in the March 2014 Liahona.
- Guide to the Scriptures, "Grace".
- David A. Bednar, "The Atonement and the Journey of Mortality," Ensign, April 2012, 43.
- David A. Bednar, "In the Strength of the Lord," Ensign, Nov. 2004, 76.
- Richard G. Scott, "For Peace at Home," Ensign, May 2013, 30.
- Craig A. Cardon, "The Savior Wants to Forgive," Ensign, May 2013, 15.

subset: commoncrawl


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Low top deep perforation
These black Filling Pieces sneakers feature a grey heel, a logo lasered tongue and a white sole that measures at 2.54 cm.
- Black & grey
- Made in Portugal
- Fits one size bigger than actual size
Delivery & Returns
Once an order is processed delivery should be with you within 3-7 working days. When your order is shipped, an email is sent to you containing a tracking number. If you do not receive this email, please email email@example.com.
Normal priced products can be returned within 7 days and you will receive a full refund.
All items discounted, purchased on sale or using a promotional code are final sale and cannot be returned. All shipping and handling charges, gift cards and store credit are nonrefundable. Items purchased from previous collections must abide by previously enforced policies. Returns not abiding by this policy will be returned to sender.


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Village Honda7663 110 Ave NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3R 1R8
Village Honda
2019 Honda Passport PASSPORT TOURING
Interested by the 2019 Honda Passport PASSPORT TOURING ?
* Price includes: Freight, PDI, Clean for Delivery, AMVIC Fee, Tire Recycling Fee, Block Heater, Wheel Lock Nuts, Nitro, Two Rear Splash Guards (where applicable). Not Included in Price: Accessories, Premium Colour Charge, License, Registration and Taxes.All pricing and details are believed to be accurate, but we do not warrant or guarantee such accuracy. The prices shown above, may vary from region to region, as will incentives, and are subject to change. Vehicle information is based off standard equipment and may vary from vehicle to vehicle. Call or email for completevehicle specific information. New Vehicle Photos are for illustrative purposes only. European or American model might be shown. Some items, such as wheels, may be unavailable on some trim levels when vehicle is built or may not be available in Canada. Environmental or related levies and taxes may vary by jurisdiction. Dealer may sell for less.Fuel consumption figures are estimates based on Natural Resources Canada's approved criteria and testing methods. Refer to the 2014 Fuel Consumption Guidefor Natural Resources Canada's estimated fuel consumption figures. Actual fuel consumption may vary based on driving conditions, driver habits and vehicle's additional equipment.


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Hard Graft Print Collateral
Hard Graft, it literally means "Hard Work," and boy does this European company live up to their name. Makers of beautifully designed and handcrafted gadget cases, this duo (one English, one Austrian) has a passion for what they do–and it shows. From designing the products and tracking down the finest italian craftsman (they used to make every single item themselves), to packing each order by hand, they are involved in every aspect of their business. We're actually surprised they don't have sheep in their back yard (then again, for all we know, maybe they do). Moral of the story–they care, these are the kind of people we love to work with. To complement their 100% wool felt and leather goods, they designed noted cards, merchandise cards and labels for us to produce. The note card and angular merchandise cards were printed on 60pt Ahlstrom Blotter, which is what we traditionally recommend for coasters. Though the outcome is beautiful, these items were a challenge to run on press. Whenever you run a flood of color alongside fine type you will constantly have to fight to keep the text crisp while still making the flood of color as solid as possible. This project was especially tricky because the blotter stock is notoriously challenging to run solid areas of color on, there is no avoiding what we call a "salty" result–luckily this was the look they were going for. They were finished with a custom diecut, which helps the cards tuck tightly into felt pockets prior to shipping (see the picture below that Hard Graft was nice enough to send over of the cards in use).
The labels were printed on Strathmore Soft White label stock, receiving a kiss-cut after printing, allowing them to easily peel off the backing sheet.


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TDC Games has been producing innovative, trend setting and somewhat zany games and jigsaw puzzles for over 25 years. TDC Games and Puzzles offers a diverse collection with specialized themes, so your sure to find a game that is both unique and entertaining!
Copyright © 2008-2019, Puzzle Warehouse, All rights reserved.
Puzzle Warehouse recycles everything it can to save the environment and to keep costs and prices low.
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Thank you for visiting our website! Below you will be able to find the answer to Monkeys named for monks crossword clue which was last seen on New York Times Crossword, March 5 2018. Our site contains over 2.8 million crossword clues in which you can find whatever clue you are looking for. Since you landed on this page then you would like to know the answer to Monkeys named for monks. Without losing anymore time here is the answer for the above mentioned crossword clue:
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|Group choosing a 35-Across
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|Hidden stash
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|Hunter in the night sky
|Ingmar who directed 'The Seventh Seal'
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Q - Jeanette Levellie asks: "What is your favorite coffee?"
A - Black, the darker roast the better. My favorite brand is Starbucks, but I'll drink about anything as long as it's good and strong.
Q - Alex J. Cavanaugh asks: "Explain the significance of the smiley face coffee mug."
A - That's one of my favorite coffee mugs (I have many coffee mugs!) because it was given to me by a group of fifth graders that belonged to a Destination Imagination team I managed several years ago. Plus, it's just really happy. :)
Q - Les Edgerton asks: "(1) If someone didn't 'step away from your coffee cup' did you take them down? and (2) If you took them down, did you draw blood?"
A -My blog's first post (363 days ago!) dealt with this very subject. My husband does actually steal a cup of coffee on weekend mornings. I guess I'm an old softie, because I let him get away with it. And I don't even draw blood. :)
Q - Old Kitty asks: "Erm...coffee!! Cappuccino? Latte? Half caff...? Chai...??"
A - Since I drink so much coffee (I make 5 cups every morning, some days I drink it all, some days I don't), I drink half caff. Otherwise I'd be too hyper to write anything, let alone take my nap. :)
How about you? Are you a coffee drinker? If so, what's your favorite type of coffee? If not, do you have some other favorite treat that gets you into writing mode?


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Stocks Erase Post-Fed Gains
Blue Chips Fall 185.46 Points in Biggest Slide Since Aug. 15
Stocks tumbled Friday, reversing gains that had followed the Federal Reserve's move to maintain its monetary stimulus earlier in the week.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 185.46 points, or 1.2%, to 15451.09, its biggest daily slide since Aug. 15.
The S&P 500-stock index dropped 12.43 points, or 0.7%, to 1709.91, retreating from Wednesday's record of 1725.52. The Nasdaq Composite Index dropped 14.66 points, or 0.4%, to 3774.73.
"It's a bit of a buyers' strike with very targeted selling," said Joe Spinelli, head of North America cash equity trading at Deutsche Bank. "The areas that I'm seeing selling were the areas that were the best bid when the Fed announced that they weren't going to taper."
A surprise move Wednesday by the U.S. central bank to leave its stimulus program fully intact had sparked surges in stock and bond prices. Since late May, investors have been preparing for the eventual scaling back of monetary-policy measures that have buoyed the price of bonds as well as stocks. But the midweek jolt faded quickly.
Meanwhile, stock-market bears point to sluggish economic growth and a harder search for undervalued companies following the S&P 500's 20% gain in 2013. Meanwhile, a potentially nasty U.S. budget debate is just starting, and the Fed's playbook for weaning the market off its easy monetary policy remains uncertain.
High-dividend-paying stocks such as real-estate investment trusts and utilities had rallied Wednesday on speculation that continued central-bank stimulus could forestall higher interest rates, making their payouts attractive compared with bond yields that remain below historic averages. That reversed Friday, as the MSCI U.S. REIT index slid 1.7% and utilities in the S&P 500 fell 1.5%.
Friday saw heavy volume as the stock market closed, in part due to what traders refer to as "quadruple witching," when index futures, index options, individual stock options and individual stock futures all expire on the same day. The periodic rebalancing of a handful of major stock indexes also jolted volume, traders said.
The yield on the 10-year Treasury note inched down to 2.735%. The yield was down sharply from 2.896% a week ago.
European markets pulled back slightly as investors looked ahead to the German elections over the weekend. The Stoxx Europe 600 fell 0.3%%, after closing at a more than five-year high on Thursday.
Angela Merkel is expected to win a third term as chancellor, but some opinion polls suggest her center-right coalition holds only a slight majority, putting some doubt in the outcome of Sunday's national election. Germany's DAX 30 index eased 0.2%.
Asian markets paused after Thursday's Fed-induced rally. Japan's Nikkei Stock Average slipped 0.2% but closed up 2.3% on the week. Meanwhile, India's S&P BSE Sensex index slid 1.9% after the Reserve Bank of India surprised investors by raising its key lending rate by a quarter percentage point to 7.5%.
In corporate news, BlackBerry tumbled after the smartphone maker warned it expects to report sharply lower earnings than Wall Street expected. It plans to cut 4,500 jobs to help cut costs by 50% by 2015.
AK Steel slumped after the steelmaker projected late Thursday a third-quarter loss that was wider than analysts' forecasts amid a decline in shipments and prices.
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With a proud history dating back to 1886, you can bet we have a lot to celebrate in this special anniversary year. We invite you to join us!
This 125-year milestone is an excellent opportunity to honor some of the people and accomplishments that have contributed to our success. It's also a good time to come together with others who care about water and share experiences, information and educational resources.
Here's how you can join the celebration:
Test Your Water IQ, meet our official mascot Puddles the Duck, and find out about 125th anniversary-related events in your area.
This celebration is for all of our customers, partners, professionals and communities, so we want to know about the American Traditions that are important to you. Tell us or show us here. Do you have some creative ways to help conserve water? Send us a video to share with others.
There is no time like the present to reach for the tap instead of a disposable water bottle. 85% of plastic bottles end up in landfills. It takes 1,000 years for the average plastic bottle to biodegrade. Pledge allegiance to the tap and help make a difference for the environment.
We're celebrating this important milestone the same way as we celebrate every year of service to our customers: by providing high-quality and reliable water and wastewater service.
Thanks for celebrating with us! We look forward to hearing from you.


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20 U.S. Code § 7321c - Performance review and penalties
If, during the term of a local flexibility demonstration agreement, a local educational agency fails to make adequate yearly progress for 2 consecutive years, the Secretary shall, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, promptly terminate the agreement.
The Secretary may, after providing notice and an opportunity for a hearing (including the opportunity to provide information as provided for in paragraph (3)), terminate a local flexibility demonstration agreement under this division if there is evidence that the local educational agency has failed to comply with the terms of the agreement.
If a local educational agency believes that the Secretary's determination under this subsection is in error for statistical or other substantive reasons, the local educational agency may provide supporting evidence to the Secretary, and the Secretary shall consider that evidence before making a final early termination determination.
If, at the end of the 5-year term of a local flexibility demonstration agreement entered into under this division, the local educational agency has not met the requirements described in section 7321(c) of this title, the Secretary may not renew the agreement under section 7321d of this title and, beginning on the date on which such term ends, the local educational agency shall be required to comply with each of the program requirements in effect on such date for each program included in the local flexibility demonstration agreement.
LII has no control over and does not endorse any external Internet site that contains links to or references LII.


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When the '67 Camaro first hit the SCCA racing scene, there were serious deficiencies in several areas. One of which was the brake system. Even though GM was not "officially" fielding a race team, there was a lot of development going on behind the scenes thanks to Vince Piggins, Bill Howell, Roger Penske, Mark Donohue, and TRACO Engineering.
In 1967, Chevrolet began the development of performance brakes for the Camaro. Corvette four-piston brake calipers were adapted to work on the front and offered them for Z/28s as RPO J56 for $105.35. According the Camaro White Book by Mike Antonick, only 205 of these front brake options were ordered in 1967. The front rotors were 1-inch thick and 11.75 inches in diameter. The calipers are easily identified as J56 because of the two pins holding the pads in place. This system utilized HD metallic rear brake shoes to increase rear braking.
There were no HD brake options available when ordering a '68 Camaro. The four-wheel disc brake option RPO JL8 was listed in the '68 Camaro factory assembly manual, but was only available over the counter at Chevrolet dealerships as heavy-duty service equipment.
By the time the '69 Camaro was introduced, the JL8 HD brake system was fully developed. The RPO JL8 could be selected when ordering a '69 Camaro for an additional $500.30 when ordering an SS or Z/28. If you were ordering any other Camaro model, the JL8 cost was $623.50. The front and rear rotors were 1.25 inches thick and 11.75 inches in diameter. The JL8 wasn't just the four-wheel disc brakes, it also included a special rear axle that contained a 22-plate (instead of the regular 18-plate) differential carrier.
Even though this option was only ordered for 206 Camaros, the modified versions of these parts were also available over the counter at Chevrolet dealerships as heavy-duty service equipment. There's no production data available for how many of these HD parts were produced, but they were most likely being purchased for use in Trans-Am and other road racing events.
Bob Jones was nice enough to show us his original JL8-equipped '69 Z/28. Special thanks to Brian Henderson of Super Car Workshop. You can see all the JL8 parts or buy them at JL8brakes.com.
Interior Trim Removal
If you are restoring the interior on your Camaro, Eastwood's three-piece Door Panel and Trim Removal Set makes panel removal easy. Retail price is just $37.99 (PN 52296). Go to eastwood.com/cp214 or call them at 800.343.9353, source code CP214 for more information.


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Marks' Mills
Other Names: None
Location: Cleveland County
Campaign: Camden Expedition (1864)
Date(s): April 25, 1864
Principal Commanders: Lt. Col. Francis Drake [US]; Brig. Gen. James B. Fagan [CS]
Forces Engaged: Infantry brigade [US]; two divisions [CS]
Estimated Casualties: 1,793 total (US 1,500; CS 293)
Description: A Union force escorted 240 wagons from Camden to Pine Bluff to pick up supplies and transport them back to Maj. Gen. Fred Steele's army. At first the Union escort rebuffed Rebel attempts to halt them. Then the Confederates moved in on the Union rear and front, causing a rout. The Rebels captured most of the men and all of the supply wagons. Thus, Steele gave up all thoughts of uniting with Maj. Gen. Nathaniel Banks on the Red River and realized that he had to save his army.
Result(s): Confederate victory
CWSAC Reference #: AR015
Preservation Priority: II.4 (Class D)
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Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans
Entry level performance luxury sedans are a hot area for car manufacturers and enthusiasts alike. These sedans show their performance by being fun to drive and handling well. They show luxury by offering leather and some of the important creatures comforts found in the most luxurious upscale sedans. The selection of vehicles that compete in the space is vast and varied.
The benchmarks which define this are the BMW 330 and the Audi A4 3.0. But there are many contenders, such as Acura TL-S, Chrysler 300M, Jaguar X-type, Infiniti I35, Mercedes C-Class, Volvo S60 T5. Some companies have contenders that emphasize performance Lexus IS300 or luxury Lexus ES300. And the field is continously growing, with the recent additions being the Cadillac CTS and Infiniti G35.
The common charateristics of this entry level perfomance luxury group seem to a price around 30 to 40k (US dollars) and 0-60 times between six and eight seconds.
With this wide variety of cars targeted at a similar market segment, the choices for our own personal car are great. But with all these choices, it is hard to understand and personally evaluate all these options. So this topic has been created to start a discussion on the relative merits and personalities of the cars available in this entry level performance luxury field.
The benchmarks which define this are the BMW 330 and the Audi A4 3.0. But there are many contenders, such as Acura TL-S, Chrysler 300M, Jaguar X-type, Infiniti I35, Mercedes C-Class, Volvo S60 T5. Some companies have contenders that emphasize performance Lexus IS300 or luxury Lexus ES300. And the field is continously growing, with the recent additions being the Cadillac CTS and Infiniti G35.
The common charateristics of this entry level perfomance luxury group seem to a price around 30 to 40k (US dollars) and 0-60 times between six and eight seconds.
With this wide variety of cars targeted at a similar market segment, the choices for our own personal car are great. But with all these choices, it is hard to understand and personally evaluate all these options. So this topic has been created to start a discussion on the relative merits and personalities of the cars available in this entry level performance luxury field.
merc1 Posts: 6,081I personally think that with a few tweaks the C320 could also sit at the top of this group. It's still more of a entry-level luxury sedan than Mercedes would lead you to believe. The C320 "Sport" needs to have it's suspension retuned to accept 17 inch tires without a harsh ride. MB also needs to stop forcing metal trim and black leather on everyone that wants the sport package. The C240's 6-speed wouldn't hurt either if offered on the C320, though it needs to be "fixed" first.
That said, my favorite of the group is (gasp!) the new A4 3.0. The A4 easily has the best interior of any sub-40K car, combine that with stunning looks and a body that is as rigid as any ever made and you have my personal favorite. The single thing I don't like about the A4 is the grey trim around the bottom of the car. This trim doesn't match any of the body colors, as it should be body color anyway. This is an excellent car and in my opinion the best there is under 40K. The upcoming A4 Convertible, Coupe and S4 WILL all be winners.
The BMW 330i is now an old favorite, but I'm (of all people) starting to tire of the 3-Series just a bit, save the M3 variants. I was kind of dissappointed by the 2002 facelift, they could have done a little more in the way of styling. I hope they do a little more for 2003 with the coupe models.
The Acura TL-S is easily my favorite fwd car in this class. Wonderful engine (you actually can hear it) and decent handling for a front driver. Nice price, seats and what not, not hard to see why the TL is so popular. This car's main faults are styling and obvious cost-cutting in the interior, stereo, fake wood etc. Otherwise a standout.
Lexus ES300. Nice, but not my type of car at all. This is one for the Buick set. The IS300 is half baked, but has a wonderful chassis. Styling is also in question here, it simply doesn't look like a 35K car (grown). The interior is gawd-awful. Bet on the next IS300 being done right from the start. In their defense Toyota didn't initially intend for this car to be sold in the U.S. so it was a rush job.
The CTS holds the greatest unrealized potential here. I've seen several now, and each time I see one they look better and better. Again like the C320, IS300 the car has interior issues. The dash feels like it was made by Rubbermaid. If you're going to be stingy with wood trim, why bother? Half of the steering wheel in wood, and very little anywhere else in the car??? The seats are very good though, as is the handling. A work in progress.
The G35 looks like it may have a winning chassis, but the interior, though clean looking seems to be styled about 10 years ago, lots of square shapes and flat surfaces. Another great engine, waiting to drive this one.
Don't really care much for the X-Type. If I were a Jaguar man I'd be truly pissed at Ford and Jaguar for this one. They are actually selling a fwd X-Type in England and I've read where they're thinking about selling it here! Hell no. The car should have been rwd not awd. Some will tell you that this was done to compete with Audi. Thats BS, awd was the only way to keep the car from being fwd, WITHOUT spending the money to convert the car to rwd. It is a good looking car though and that Jaguar "leaper" will be enough for some, but this car has to grow on me.
The Chrysler 300M is about as close to an Audi that American cars come. This new 300M "Special" is truly a good looking car inside and out. One problem: Where is the performance???? A 255hp car *in this class) with a 0-60 time over 8 seconds is not accpetable. Something is not right here. Some say engine, transmission and/or gearing, but whatever it is, Chrysler needs to let some MB engineers have a look at this car. The heavier E320 with less power is faster. I still like this car, but it's no lust object once you get past the great styling.
fredvh Posts: 857I am debating a new purchase and these two are at the top of my list. The price difference between these two is approx. 6K (non-Type S Acura). Is the ES300 worth 6K over the TL? I don't know because I have never owned a TL but I am familiar with the ES300(previous generation). Supposedly the 2002 ES300 is a lot better than the previous generation but is it that much better than the TL? Of great importance to me is initial quality and overall dependability. Does the TL compare with the ES300 in both of these categorys? I am not familiar with the Honda Co. Are prices lower than Lexus for service work? I would appreciate any input on this dilemma from some TL owners.0
Great handling, RWD, excellent engine and the best warranty around. Easy winner.0
And no manual tranny. That may not matter to you, but it most certainly does matter to me and many other enthusiast drivers.
So IMO, it's not even on the board, let alone the 'easy winner'.0
One beauty of BMW 3 Series is that there are so many models to choose from. Almost half of all buyers in America don't get the basic RWD 4 door sedan. Besides having 3 engine and 3 transmission choices, you can get coupe, convertible, AWD, station wagon, and super-high performance M-Series!!!
hungrywhale... I concur that having the availability of a manual transmission across the line is absolutely critical!!!0
good grief, so you wait 9 months for the manual. Even with an auto, I prefer to every car listed and I NEVER have owned an auto and never thought I'd enjoy driving a car with an auto. That's what value, performance and an exceptional engine can do for a car. Once the G has a stick there is not another sedan under the M3 that I'd consider.0
I'll give it a fair shot when the manual comes out, but I'm just flat-out not interested in an auto. I don't care how fast it is. It's not about the speed, it's about the driving experience and having more control over the car.0
I understand it's not about the speed. I really don't care if the car won't do over 100 as I rarely break the century mark. What I do care about is power and with the manual mode on the auto, I can get it when I want it. Will I buy an auto-equipped G? In all likelihood, no. I desperately want to drive the 6 speed.0
It sounds like you know why I won't even put it on my list (let alone at the top) until the manual comes out.0
Is there such a thing as an automatic-only true performance sedan? Not in my book. Certainly not in Europe or Asia. Only in America is such an oxymoron possible. Sad.
If or when the manual G35 comes out and the coupe version, then the G35 will be interesting enough to be a serious contender in this segment.0
If I had to rank the entry lux performance sedans, here is what I would choose:
Audi A4 3.0(lots of bang for the buck, loads of style and loads of luxury)
Cadillac CTS( Decent BTFB, good handling, non-lemming style)
Infinity G35(Tons of BFTB, good luxury, but completely boring exterior and even more boring of an interior)
BMW 325(very little BFTB, excellent handling/build quality/resale, classy looking but too conservative for me)
SAAB Viggen(almost zero BFTB, spotty build quality, but the damn coolest style in the world).
Everything else is not worth my time0
shipo Posts: 9,148Hey my friend, dig this, in Australia, the ONLY 5-Series that can be had with a manual gearbox is the M5! Yeah, right, not the 525i, 530i, 535i or the 540i, they are all automatic only. :-(
Best Regards,
>"Is there such a thing as an automatic-only true performance sedan? Not in my book. Certainly not in Europe or Asia. Only in America is such an oxymoron possible. Sad.
If or when the manual G35 comes out and the coupe version, then the G35 will be interesting enough to be a serious contender in this segment."
Riez, I read from your profile that you have a manual BMW 5-series. But I think you are wrong to not consider a car such as a Infiniti G35 to be a serious contender as a performance luxury sedan. From your logic, then the BMW 3-series (your wife's) or the 5-series with the Steptronic should not be contenders either. That's belittling the Infiniti, Audi, Lexus, Acuras, BMW's etc. with automatics.
When I return in December from Qatar, I plan on purchasing a sports sedan. I'm leaning on the G35, but the BMW 330i along with the Audi S4 are also contenders. IMO, if the handling of the Infiniti is as good as the BMW as some that drove it has stated, then it will hard to pass up especially for the price. Also my first choice will be a manual, and Infiniti should have the manual out by December. I will test drive all three, manual and automatics, and make my choice from there.
I do agree with you that manuals are more fun to drive, and that will be my first choice. But, automatics in this category, especially those made by BMW, Infiniti and others, should not be eliminated as performance sedans. Different flavors for different people.
I have been following discussions on many boards and what I have been noticing is that there is so many "experts" on what is the best sports sedan. And most haven't even driven the competitors to give an honest opinion. This is not aimed at you Riez or Shipko, because your profiles states that you own a BMW already. But from what I noticed is that some BMW "supportors" don't even own a BMW, (at least not from their profile) or they state that they never drove an Infiniti G35, but they still make "unsupported" facts, assumptions or opinions on such. (See the Edmund's BMW 3-series discussion). I hope in your defense, Reiz, that you drove the automatic Infiniti G35, to give an opinionated statement that it doesn't classify as a performance sedan. I value your opinion and others as well.
Again, I'm not flaming you, but I try to be an informed consumer before I buy anything. That is the reason that I will drive every car that I'm interested in and make my choice from there. I'm also always interested in those opinions from people that own the type of car I'm shopping for and at least drove it, so they can give valid pro/negative statements.
I think what riez and I are trying to say is not that automatics perform poorly or that only weenies drive them
But any car that truly holds itself out as a performance sedan NEEDS at least the option of a manual tranny. Manuals are always faster than automatics and they are almost always the choice of the enthusiast driver.
There's nothing at all wrong with automatics, but I sure don't want one.0
In this class, the best bang for the buck has to be IS300, assuming one can live with the styling.
I guess I'm one of the few that likes the old A4 styling to the new. Isn't the new A4 pushing 3600 lbs. now? That's pretty heavy for this class.0
Even at 29k for a 35k msrp IS300, I passed on it. Now I never drove a manual one (they weren't out yet) but even with a manual, given the car's horrible drive-feel, poor interior and lethargic steering, I don't think I'd go near one. They're not up to Audi/BMW/MB/Infiniti.0
Never liked a lexus, and probably never will. I would rather drive the CTS. There is always something that irritates me about them. I would buy the IS as a Toyota but not a Lexus...I personally think Lexus should have a car in its lineup with this cheap of an interior and with this much sporting character. Toyota deserves something like it though.
Also, I don't think 215 horsepower for 29k is a lot of bang for the buck, considering the G35 is the same price with 260 horsies.0
"I would buy the IS as a Toyota but not a Lexus"
How else are they going to get that extra $5k from you then?
Reasonably equipped G35 goes for $33k or so.0
I couldn't have said it better myself. I'll let you lead services!
mbarto... I most certainly will test a G35 manual if and when it finally comes out. I promise!!! Automatics make nice luxury sedans and maybe even sporty luxury sedans. But NOT performance sedans or luxury performance sedans. (I don't even consider the 540iA Sport truly worthy, though it is as close as one can get in an automatic. If I could just get my wife to drive a manual....)0
Thanks Riez! Let me know when you do. I'm sure you'll get a chance before I will since I won't return until December. I am curious of how it compares to the BMW's. YOU can speak from experience, so I'll value your opinion.
It does make a difference being married. (LOL! see the latest discussions on the Infiniti G35 vs BMW 330i board). First, I'm fortunate to have a wife that can drive a manual. Not that she prefers that, her first choice is an automatic. But she appreciates the hard work and sacrifice I'm doing out here, and knows that this car is for me first, family second. Of course, it helps my cause when I let her buy a new dining room set last month, and new living room drapes this month. Bribes do help! Whatever I finally decide, I'm sure she'll be happy.0
mbarto... As regards the "bribes" issue, you've figured out one of life's great truism: You get what you want so I can get what I want."0
So if someone were looking to purchase a new performance luxury sedan today, what cars would they HAVE to take a look at and test drive? Lets say they only had time to look at five?
What five would they have to look into?0
Since it has to have a manual transmission and should be RWD (AWD/4WD adds too much weight and complexity) and has to be fun to drive hard...
1. BMW 3 Series manual
2. Lexus IS300 manual
3. Cadillac CTS manual
4. Lincoln LS6 manual
If you want affordable and can go FWD, then add Nissan Maxima 6-speed with LSD and maybe Altima 3.5SE 5-speed.
Try to get car with LSD. Inline 6s are magnificently smooth engines.
Possible future car: Infiniti G35 sedan when it finally gets the 6-speed manual.0
coolguyky7 Posts: 932The TL should be up for redesign in a few years so a TL would be outdated in the not so far future. And besides, it seems like everyone who drives an Acura drives the TL. I LOVE the ES300. Some say it looks bloated; I don't think it does. At the 3/4 angle, it looks impressive. The interior is as nice as a car can get. If I had the money, I would buy an ES300 in a heartbeat. I never did like the past ones' boring styling...especially since the last two generations were nearly twins. Go with the ES. Besides, Lexus' quality is ahead of Acura's.0
kdshapiro Posts: 5,751The new ES is a very smart looking car. Notwithstanding any engine issues though, I think there are direct price competitors like the I35 that offer better overall value on paper. Now I haven't driven either new model, I did drive the older ES300 and it did it's job very well. They are both great cars. Lexus for legendary reliability and resale value, Infiniti for up-to-date features.0
Um...you left off the Infiniti G35 and it's bland, boring brother the I35 (the ES300's competition).
29k gets someone a 4 door 260 HP performance entry level luxury sedan with all sorts of goodies.0
jagboyxkr Posts: 53Sorry, I thought that I had already taken up too much space, and I also was getting tired of typing. When I check out an Infiniti G35, maybe I'll post something on it.
I always thought the I35's looked all right, even if they aren't the most exciting cars ever built.0
Go drive one. They're a blast and for the money they're a steal. If someone wants entry level performance luxury at a great price, the G's really tough to beat.
Save for BMW, it sort of stands head and shoulders over most of its competition.0
steffie2jc Posts: 5I can't make a decision. I was set on the MB C240 but then I read some postings from people who got lemons. Now I am starting to think that the Audi 3.0 CVT front wheel drive is what I shoud get. Any advice? Low manintenance is what I am looking for.


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How Do I Contact the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development?
For General Information
View MDARD program descriptions and organizational structure.
Main MDARD Phone Number
For all calls for the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development, please contact the Customer Service Center at 1-800-292-3939.
The CSC is operated Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm ET. If you need to contact the agency after hours, please use the contact form below or email us.
If you have an emergency, please see our Emergency Contact information here.
Call MDARD's Lab Division
Laboratory Division - 517-284-0500
EC Heffron Metrology Lab - 517-655-8202
Write to MDARD
Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development
P.O. Box 30017
Lansing, Michigan
Send Email to MDARD: email@example.com
Online Contact Form
This form is helpful if you are using a computer with no email software (such as those found at public libraries.) If you wish to file a complaint, please use the form below.
Freedom of Information Act Process for Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development
You will find all the information you need to complete a FOIA request and submit it to MDARD.
Online Complaint Forms
Gas Complaints
If you have information regarding potential unfair gasoline pricing practices, please call the Attorney General's Office at 1-877-765-8388. You may file a gasoline price gouging complaint online.
Other Complaints: Click here for the MDARD complaint form page
This online form allows you to submit food-related complaints (illness or not) along with pesticide or plant health complaints.
Click here for State Employee email and phone numbers
Emerald Ash Borer
Click here for all questions regarding the Emerald Ash Borer
Agriculture Pollution/Spills Hot Line: 1-800-405-0101
(For non-agriculture related spills, contact EGLE at 1-800-292-4706)
This 24-hour hot line should be used for reporting accidental agricultural pesticide, fertilizer and manure spills. (Chemical spills not agriculture-related should be referred to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy's Pollution Emergency Alerting System (PEAS) number, 1-800-292-4706.)
For other emergencies call: 517-373-0440
This number should be used mainly by agriculture producers and food retailers who have experienced damage or loss of crops and products through drought, flood, fire, etc. In the event of reportable animal disease outbreaks or accidental nuclear contamination/leaks, this number should also be used. In many cases, MDARD works with producers to obtain federal disaster assistance, and with retailers to inspect products for possible salvage.
Motor Fuels Quality Hot Line: 1-800-MDA-FUEL
This number is used for reporting suspected adulteration of motor fuels or pump calibrations. It is posted on the pumps at every filling station in the state.


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On 1/6/13 6:01 PM, Hugh Glaser wrote: > Hi, > I agree with you about the Names - it's just I think that when people use the term Hyperlink it gives the wrong emphasis. Yes, but I think is less confusing (to the non technical person) than URIs or HTTP URIs etc.. > > As to the LOD world, I can only sigh at your response. > I asked, but you still haven't mentioned, a single thing that anyone would recognise as an application. Because your question utterly befuddles me. LOD data is in massive use all over the Web, behind corporate firewalls, you name it. That train left the station more than 3 years ago. > For example, what are the "new mobile applications" (as you say) - just name a few, please. Every mobile phone has a browser. Thus, you have an HTTP client. There are lots of apps that make use of LOD data without expressly acknowledging they are doing so. Most of the time because they don't understand the implicit attribution prowess of Linked Data oriented entity names etc.. In other cases, they are just being exploitative, but those patterns too will end soon. I am sure you know Google, Bing, Facebook etc.. are all consumers of Linked Data, even though, they don't necessarily makes this obvious. The same applies to IBM where LOD data (from neither you nor Giovanni) played a major role in Watson's jeopardy exploits :-) > I don't want to knock things, and I would love to be able to tell people about them as I do believe the technology can be awesome. It is utterly awesome. So awesome that its effects are stealthy and webby. > But I just want a bit of realism. It's kinda unrealistic to take the position (circa. 2013) that LOD is still an endeavor struggling to find bootstrap. Of course, you are always entitled to your personal opinions on these matters. I just disagree with you, totally. > If all you can do is point at Dbpedia and the LOD cloud and talk about the "embrace of Linked Data principles", then we haven't come very far in terms of consumption, stunning as the achievements may be. Why did you leave out the government endeavors I listed? > Please name applications! Can you tell me what applications are successfully making use of Linked HTML based Documents on the Web? Would one pose such a question circa 2013? > Go on, you must be able to name one to support your view. See my comments above. What is an Application in your world view? Kingsley > Best > Hugh > > On 6 Jan 2013, at 22:36, Kingsley Idehen <firstname.lastname@example.com> > wrote: > >> On 1/6/13 1:01 PM, Hugh Glaser wrote: >>> On 6 Jan 2013, at 17:26, Kingsley Idehen <email@example.com> >>> wrote: >>> >>>> On 1/5/13 6:45 PM, Giovanni Tummarello wrote: >>>> >>> <snip> >>>> BTW -- the killer application of the Web is the Hyperlink. That will remain so forever. Over time it will simply be used expose many more dimensions of Web exploitation. >>> Actually it's the global identifier. >> Actually, the Hyperlink as a global identifier that can denote anything :-) >> >>> I think it is misleading to talk about the hyperlinks as being the crucial technology - as you say later, it is the names that are important. >> The Names are most useful when they resolve to descriptions of their Referents. >> >>> You can have the identifiers without the hyperlinks, but if you talk about hyperlinks people think about where the link is from, which isn't the important bit. >> The important bit lies in the Name and Address duality which enables powerful indirection via explicit or implicit redirection . This feature works wonders for: >> >> 1. data representation >> 2. data access & connectivity >> 3. data integration >> 4. data dissemination >> 5. data management. >> >>>>> On the web it is indeed often sufficient to >>>>> create a web site even a crappy one and you get immediate benefits. >>>>> Given there are benefits people do it, period. >>>>> >>>>> IMO a client is missing. or a set of clients, that will do useful >>>>> things for non fictional - important enough share of people. >>>> No, we already have clients and consumers such as: Web browsers, legacy desktop applications, new mobile applications, and existing services that can all tap in to the data representation, access, integration, and dissemination frontiers that constitute the Web's data space dimension. >>> I think you need to substantiate your statement (that the project is already success) by providing a significant list of such real applications that use published Linked Data that they didn't create themselves. >> DBpedia, LOD Cloud, the full embrace of Linked Data principles across the EU, US, UK, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Portuguese and many others governments is healthy enough. That's just for starters. >> >> Publishing Linked Data is a resounding success, its has already long past the point of critical mass. >>> And please remember that this is the LOD list, so they should be consuming RDF from elsewhere by using resolvable URIs. >> Yes, as my claims stand. >> >>> (I find it hard to do so - the only real stuff I know of that isn't from Giovanni or I is in the Life Science world, as David rightly points out.) >> Wow, so we clearly see the world differently. The items I listed above clearly don't count in your world view, for whatever reasons. >> >>> In my mind this discussion is not directly about whether the LOD project is a success or failure - it is about where the valuable resources of some very bright people should be deployed. >> People should participate in those aspects of the Linked Data ecosystem that best suite their skills and interests. Linked Data isn't a monolithic realm. >> >>> And some of us would say that encouraging them to put their efforts into the publishing end is not the optimal strategy. >> See my comment above. As I've said in the past, this realm is "horse for courses" compliant, and (IMHO) that's its ultimate strength. >> >> >> Kingsley >>> Best >>> Hugh >>>> Do you know of any serious application or service that exists today that's incapable of making a basic HTTP GET? >>>> >>>>> With said clients (giving benefits already when accessing a few marked >>>>> up websites, e.g. something that allows you to use rottentomatoes.com >>>>> much better because of the markup that's ALREADY on it) then it willbe >>>>> PEOPLE writing to webmasters saying "mark it up please otherwise i >>>>> cant XY"or webmasters themselves wanting to mark up because then >>>>> people with clients willbe able to XY. >>>> Hyperlinks are powerful names for accessing Knowledge, Information, and Data. It just so happened that Web revelation happened via the information space, and now we have to backtrack to the data space en route to the knowledge space (where smart agents will thrive) dimension :-) >>>> >>>> By every measure I know, Linked Data, LOD etc.. are resounding successes. >>>> >>>> >>>> Kingsley >>>>> Gio >>>>> >>>>> On Fri, Jan 4, 2013 at 11:44 PM, David Booth <firstname.lastname@example.com> wrote: >>>>>> I don't agree that the idea of "publish some stuff and they will come, >>>>>> both new publishers and consumers" has failed. But I do think some >>>>>> expectations have been too high. >>>>>> >>>>>> Perhaps it is like a scale-free distribution. Sure, there is lots of >>>>>> data that is published and ignored, just as there are millions of >>>>>> personal blog sites on the web that are ignored. But there is also some >>>>>> data that is published and is very valuable to Real Applications, just >>>>>> as sites like http://www.nytimes.com/ are valuable to many readers. >>>>>> Biological / life sciences data comes to mind. It is not always 5-star >>>>>> -- often 4-star or only 3-star: >>>>>> http://www.w3.org/DesignIssues/LinkedData.html >>>>>> >>>>>> One would be foolish to think that one's personal blog would be useful >>>>>> to many others just because it is published on the web. Similarly one >>>>>> would be foolish to think that one's data would be useful to others >>>>>> merely because it is published as Linked Data. But blogs and datasets >>>>>> need to be published before consumers can decide which of them are >>>>>> valuable, so I think it's good to keep encouraging data publication. >>>>>> >>>>>> David >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> On Fri, 2013-01-04 at 21:18 +0000, Hugh Glaser wrote: >>>>>>> Wow Giovanni. >>>>>>> I wrote the following this afternoon, and have been sitting trying to >>>>>>> work out whether I should send it. >>>>>>> I think it means you are not alone in your views!: >>>>>>> >>>>>>> I'm going to sound like a broken record here. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> All well and good, yes it would be great to have the Dogfood server >>>>>>> working properly. >>>>>>> But (to push the analogy further), is there any point in making >>>>>>> DogFood if there are no dogs eating it? >>>>>>> Is this really what all these clever people should be spending their >>>>>>> time on? >>>>>>> >>>>>>> I knew Dogfood wasn't in a very good state because I get error reports >>>>>>> when my system accesses it. >>>>>>> But did anyone else notice? >>>>>>> >>>>>>> I'm so sad (yes really!) that after all these years people still run >>>>>>> around getting excited about publishing data, and fiddling with little >>>>>>> things, and yet it seems there is hardly a system that does any >>>>>>> significant consumption (of any third party data). >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Best >>>>>>> Hugh >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 4 Jan 2013, at 21:02, Giovanni Tummarello <firstname.lastname@example.com> >>>>>>> wrote: >>>>>>> >>>>>>>> One might just simply stay silent and move along, but i take a few >>>>>>>> seconds to restate the obvious. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> It is a fact that Linked data as " publish some stuff and they will >>>>>>>> come, both new publishers and consumers" has failed. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> The idea of putting some "extra energy" would simply be useless per se >>>>>>>> BUT it becomes wrong when one tries to involve others e.g. gullible >>>>>>>> newcomers, fresh ph.d students who trust that "hey if my ph.d advisor >>>>>>>> made a career out of it, and EU gave him so much money it must be real >>>>>>>> right?" >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> IAs community of people who claim to have something to do with >>>>>>>> research (and not a cult) every once in a while is learn from the >>>>>>>> above lesson and devise NEW methods and strategies. In other words, >>>>>>>> move ahead in a smart way. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> I am by no mean trowing all away. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> * publishing structured data on the web is already a *huge thing* with >>>>>>>> schema.org and the rest. Why? because of the clear incentive SEO. >>>>>>>> * RDF is a great model for heterogeneous data integration and i think >>>>>>>> it will explode in (certain) enterprises (knowledge intensive) >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> What we're seeking here is more advanced, flexible uses of structured >>>>>>>> data published, e.g. by smart clients, that do useful things for >>>>>>>> people. >>>>>>>> The key is to show these clients, these useful things. What other >>>>>>>> (realistic) incentive can we create that make people publish data? how >>>>>>>> would a real "linked data client" work and provide benefit to a real >>>>>>>> world, non academic example class of users (if not all?) . >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> my wish for 2013 about linked data is that the discussion focuses on >>>>>>>> this. With people concentrated on the "full circle, round trip" >>>>>>>> experience, with incentives for all (and how to start the virtuous >>>>>>>> circle). >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Gio >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On Fri, Jan 4, 2013 at 2:03 PM, William Waites <email@example.com> wrote: >>>>>>>>> hmmm.... not so tasty: >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> warning: array_keys() [function.array-keys]: The first argument should >>>>>>>>> be an array in >>>>>>>>> /var/www/drupal-6.22/sites/all/modules/dogfood/dogfood.module on >>>>>>>>> line 1807. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> digging deeper: >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> The proxy server received an invalid response from an upstream server. >>>>>>>>> The proxy server could not handle the request POST /sparql. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> Reason: DNS lookup failure for: data.semanticweb.org >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> Apache/2.2.3 (Debian) DAV/2 SVN/1.4.2 PHP/5.2.0-8+etch16 mod_ssl/2.2.3 >>>>>>>>> OpenSSL/0.9.8c Server at data.semanticweb.org Port 80 >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> (appears to be a reverse proxy at data.semanticweb.org) >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> I think I prefer people food... >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> Cheers, >>>>>>>>> -w >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>> -- >>>>>> David Booth, Ph.D. >>>>>> http://dbooth.org/ >>>>>> >>>>>> Opinions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily >>>>>> reflect those of his employer. >>>>>> >>>> -- >>>> >>>> Regards, >>>> >>>> Kingsley Idehen >>>> Founder & CEO >>>> OpenLink Software >>>> Company Web: http://www.openlinksw.com >>>> Personal Weblog: http://www.openlinksw.com/blog/~kidehen >>>> Twitter/Identi.ca handle: @kidehen >>>> Google+ Profile: https://plus.google.com/112399767740508618350/about >>>> LinkedIn Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/kidehen >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> >>> >>> >> >> -- >> >> Regards, >> >> Kingsley Idehen >> Founder & CEO >> OpenLink Software >> Company Web: http://www.openlinksw.com >> Personal Weblog: http://www.openlinksw.com/blog/~kidehen >> Twitter/Identi.ca handle: @kidehen >> Google+ Profile: https://plus.google.com/112399767740508618350/about >> LinkedIn Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/kidehen >> >> >> >> >> > > > -- Regards, Kingsley Idehen Founder & CEO OpenLink Software Company Web: http://www.openlinksw.com Personal Weblog: http://www.openlinksw.com/blog/~kidehen Twitter/Identi.ca handle: @kidehen Google+ Profile: https://plus.google.com/112399767740508618350/about LinkedIn Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/kidehen
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.3.1 : Wednesday, 7 January 2015 15:16:28 UTC


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Head High Sonoma County Pinot Noir 2014
Winemaker Notes
Critical AcclaimAll Vintages
Home to a diverse array of smaller AVAs with varied microclimates and soil types, Sonoma County has something for every wine lover. Physically twice as large as Napa Valley, the region only produces about half the amount of wine but boasts both tremendous quality and variety. With its laid-back atmosphere and down-to-earth attitude, the wineries of Sonoma are appreciated by wine tourists for their friendliness and approachability. The entire county intends to become a 100% sustainable winegrowing region by 2019.
Grape varieties are carefully selected to reflect the best attributes of their sites—Dry Creek Valley's consistent sunshine is ideal for Zinfandel, while the warm Alexander Valley is responsible for rich, voluptuous Cabernet Sauvignon. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are important throughout the county, most notably in the cooler AVAs of Russian River, Sonoma Coast and Carneros. Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Syrah have also found a firm footing here.
One of the most finicky yet rewarding grapes to grow, Pinot Noir is a labor of love for many. However, the greatest red wines of Burgundy prove that it is unquestionably worth the effort. In fact, it is the only red variety permitted in Burgundy. Highly reflective of its terroir, Pinot Noir prefers calcareous soils and a cool climate, requires low yields to achieve high quality and demands a lot of attention in the vineyard and winery. It retains even more glory as an important component of Champagne as well as on its own in France's Loire Valley and Alsace regions. This sensational grape enjoys immense international success, most notably growing in Oregon, California and New Zealand with smaller amounts in Chile, Germany (as Spätburgunder) and Italy (as Pinot Nero).
In the Glass
Pinot Noir is all about red fruit—strawberry, raspberry and cherry with some heftier styles delving into the red or purple plum and in the other direction, red or orange citrus. It is relatively pale in color with soft tannins and a lively acidity. With age (of which the best examples can handle an astounding amount) it can develop hauntingly alluring characteristics of fresh earth, savory spice, dried fruit and truffles.
Perfect Pairings
Pinot's healthy acidity cuts through the oiliness of pink-fleshed fish like salmon and tuna but its mild mannered tannins give it enough structure to pair with all sorts of poultry: chicken, quail and especially duck. As the namesake wine of Boeuf Bourguignon, Pinot noir has proven it isn't afraid of beef. California examples work splendidly well with barbecue and Pinot Noir is also vegetarian-friendly—most notably with any dish that features mushrooms.
Sommelier Secret
For administrative purposes, the region of Beaujolais is often included in Burgundy. But it is extremely different in terms of topography, soil and climate, and the important red grape here is ultimately Gamay, not Pinot noir. Truth be told, there is a tiny amount of Gamay sprinkled around the outlying parts of Burgundy (mainly in Maconnais) but it isn't allowed with any great significance and certainly not in any Village or Cru level wines. So "red Burgundy" still necessarily refers to Pinot noir.


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Sarah Palin jumped into the great Chick-fil-A debate by tweeting her support for the controversial chicken chain, calling it a "great business."
Palin and her husband Todd are the latest in a string of conservative public figures to throw their support behind Chick-fil-A after controversial comments by its president in support of "the biblical definition of the family unit."
Chick-fil-A president and CEO Dan Cathy riled gay marriage supporters earlier this month by telling a Baptist newspaper that Americans are collectively "shaking our fist" at God for allowing gay couples to wed.
Palin also linked to a Facebook photo of herself and Todd holding up full bags from Chick-fil-A and smiling.
Stopped by Chick-fil-A in The Woodlands to support a great business. fb.me/KM9ogGda— Sarah Palin (@SarahPalinUSA) July 28, 2012
Others quickly threw their opinions into the ring, with national politicians like Nancy Pelosi, Mike Huckabee and Rick Santorum jumping into the debate.
Several big city mayors including Rahm Emanuel of Chicago, Boston's Thomas Menino and San Franciscos Edwin Lee have said they will try to block Chick-fil-A from opening in their cities. "Chick-fil-A values are not Chicago values," Emanuel said. Boseon's Menino wrote a letter to Cathy, saying "There is no place for discrimination on Boston's Freedom Trail and no place for your company alongside it," though he acknowelged there was little he could do to prevent the chain from operating in the city.
New York's Michael Bloomberg disagreed, saying Friday that it was "inappropriate" to use political views to determine if a business can operate in the city, reports the New York Times. "That's just not government's job," he said.


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The plates can be flushed with water when used on steel, but we found a light oil preferable. The diamonds of the 140x and 400x are electro-bonded to a steel sheet (the 1200x is electro-bonded to a stainless-steel sheet) that is mounted to a 10mm thick aluminum block, for an overall flatness of ±0.04mm. This construction makes the plates durable, rust resistant and reliable for lapping.
The 140x is for rapid material removal; the 400x is suitable for fast lapping, truing water stones or shaping a primary bevel; the 1200x can be used for fine lapping or general sharpening, and leaves a toothed edge on kitchen knives. All are 75mm wide by 210mm long (approximately 3" x 8-1/4").


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It cuts neatly in a single stroke, greatly simplifying work commonly needing a router. It cuts with the grain, and nests comfortably in the hand for positive control on a push or pull stroke.
It has a 4-5/8" long sole and an adjustable 0.08" thick high-speed steel blade (hardened to Rc62-64).
Made of Indonesian ebony with a brass lever cap, it is a beautiful, well-crafted tool, and a fine gift for any woodworker.