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Saudi Arabia 'is planning to blame top intelligence officer for Jamal Khashoggi's death and will say he was responsible for botched interrogation country's leaders knew nothing about'
- Jamal Khashoggi disappeared on October 2 after walking into Saudi consulate
- There are claims that he was tortured and murdered inside building in Istanbul
- Saudi rulers to blame intelligence officer General Ahmed al-Assiri, sources claim
- Comes after US President Donald Trump said he now believes Khashoggi is dead
By Afp and Julian Robinson for MailOnline
Published: 04:33 EDT, 19 October 2018 | Updated: 07:29 EDT, 19 October 2018
Saudi Arabia is planning to blame one of its top intelligence officers for journalist Jamal Khashoggi's death, it has been claimed.
The kingdom's rulers could point the finger at General Ahmed al-Assiri, who is close to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, sources have claimed.
They will say he was responsible for a botched interrogation of the writer that the country's leaders knew nothing about, the New York Times reports.
Khashoggi, 60, went missing having entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul two weeks ago sparking claims he was tortured and murdered in the building. Turkish police want to question 15 Saudis who flew to Turkey on the day he disappeared.
Saudi Arabia is planning to blame a top intelligence officer General Ahmed al-Assiri (left) for Jamal Khashoggi's (right) death, it has been claimed
Jamal Khashoggi (right) arriving at the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul on October 2. He has not been seen since and Turkey has accused Saudi agents of murdering him
The New York Times said it had spoken to three people with knowledge of the Saudi plans relating to General Assiri, who had earlier served as the spokesman for the Saudi-led military intervention in Yemen before being promoted to his current job in intelligence.
Two of the sources said Saudi rulers are set to explain that Assiri had been given verbal permission from the Crown Prince to capture Mr Khashoggi for questioning in Saudi Arabia but that he either overstepped the authorisation or misunderstood his orders.
The newspaper said Assiri had not responded to requests for comment.
It comes after President Donald Trump said he now believes Khashoggi is dead and warned of 'very severe' consequences should Saudi Arabia be proven responsible.
'It certainly looks that way to me. It's very sad,' Trump told journalists when asked if he believed that Khashoggi, who disappeared more than two weeks ago, is no longer alive.
Asked about the potential US response to Saudi Arabia, which is accused of murdering the Washington Post columnist and critic of the Saudi regime, Trump said: 'It will have to be very severe. It's bad, bad stuff.'
This marked a hardening of tone from the Trump administration, which has been reluctant to blame ally Saudi Arabia, despite mounting evidence that the kingdom's agents killed and dismembered Khashoggi inside its consulate in Istanbul more than two weeks ago.
Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrives for talks at 10 Downing Street earlier this year
A former regime insider, Khashoggi had become a critic of powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the point man in ever-tightening military and commercial relations between the petro-state and the Trump administration.
Just hours earlier, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he had told Trump the Saudis should be given 'a few more days to complete' an investigation.
Turkey denies giving 'any kind of audio tape' on Khashoggi to US
Turkey on Friday denied giving 'any kind of audio tape' from the investigation into the disappearance of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo or any American official.
'It is out of the question for Turkey to give any kind of audio tape to Pompeo or any other US official,' said Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, two days after meeting with the US's top diplomat for talks in Ankara.
Turkey's pro-government press has reported that Turkey has an audio recording that proves the alleged murder of Khashoggi at the consulate and that he was tortured before his death.
The existence of the tape has never been confirmed on the record by Turkish officials.
ABC News, quoting a senior Turkish official, reported Thursday that during his visit to Turkey this week Pompeo heard this audio and was shown a transcript of the recording. But Pompeo denied the report.
'I've seen no tape. I've seen no - or I've heard no tape. I've seen no transcript,' he told reporters during a trip to Latin America.
Cavusoglu, like other Turkish officials, stopped short of revealing details of the investigation but vowed they would be shared in due course.
'We will share the results to emerge with the entire world. It is out of the question for us to share this or that information with any country,' he said, quoted by the state-run Anadolu news agency.
Only then, Pompeo said, 'we can make decisions how or if the United States should respond.'
Four prominent human rights and press freedom groups on Thursday urged Turkey to request a United Nations investigation to prevent a 'whitewash' of the alleged crime.
The Committee to Protect Journalists, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders said such a probe established by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres would finally clear up the affair.
But the United States, the Saudis' most powerful patron, has repeatedly given the country's royals the benefit of the doubt, with Trump and top officials stressing that the US-Saudi relationship cannot be put at risk.
Trump has repeatedly praised massive Saudi arms purchases, while Pompeo used much of his brief remarks on Thursday to recall Washington's 'long strategic relationship with the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.'
The Saudis 'continue to be an important counter-terrorism partner, they have custody of the two holy sites... We need to be mindful of that as well,' he said.
The furor has also blown a hole in next week's Future Investment Initiative conference in Riyadh, which was meant to showcase Prince Mohammed's plans for modernizing the desert kingdom.
US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said he was pulling out, joining senior ministers from Britain, France and the Netherlands, as well as a string of corporate leaders.
Mnuchin's announcement on Twitter helped push down stock prices on Wall Street.
His withdrawal 'raises worry that the administration is being pushed to take a harder line against Saudi Arabia over the Khashoggi murder and there could be retaliation,' said Karl Haeling of LBBW.
Responses from Saudi Arabia could include selling US Treasuries, or punishing US companies seeking business in the kingdom, Haeling said.
Missing journalist Jamal Khashoggi, pictured in Switzerland in 2011, may have been murdered because he knew too much about the Saudi royal family, one of his friends has said
Most analysts don't think Saudi Arabia would cut off oil supplies.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, meanwhile, took a dig at Washington, saying that 'the US holds a certain responsibility over what happened to him.'
But he said Moscow would not 'start deteriorating relations' with Saudi Arabia as long as 'it did not know what really happened.'
Neither Turkey nor the United States has publicly confirmed that Khashoggi is dead or said officially that Riyadh is to blame.
But a steady stream of unconfirmed leaks from officials to Turkish media have painted a detailed and horrifying picture of Khashoggi's last minutes, allegedly at the hands of 15 Saudi agents waiting for him when he came to the consulate for paperwork.
The pro-government Yeni Safak newspaper on Wednesday claimed it had heard audio tapes in which Khashoggi's alleged killers tortured him by cutting his fingers off before his decapitation.
ABC News, quoting a senior Turkish official, reported Thursday that during his visit to Turkey this week Pompeo heard this audio and was shown a transcript of the recording. But Pompeo and Turkey denied the report.
'I've seen no tape. I've seen no - or I've heard no tape. I've seen no transcript,' he told reporters during a trip to Latin America.
The pro-government Sabah newspaper on Thursday said Saudi security official Maher Abdulaziz Mutreb, believed to be close to the crown prince, was the leader of the operation.
'Here is the head of the execution team,' said Sabah's headline, and the paper then detailed Mutreb's movements on the day Khashoggi went missing.
Meanwhile, Turkish officials say investigators are assessing the possibility whether the remains of missing Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi may have been taken to a forest in the outskirts of Istanbul or to another city, if and after he was killed inside the diplomatic mission earlier this month.
The official told The Associated Press on Friday that police have established that two vehicles belonging to the Saudi consulate left the building on October 2 - the day Khashoggi had walked into the consulate and vanished.
The official says one vehicle went to the Belgrade Forest outside Istanbul while the other travelled to the city of Yalova. It's unclear if police had already searched these areas.
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subset: commoncrawl


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Hamilton takes a step closer to pink with time trial victory in the Baby GiroTue 13 Jun 2017
Young Australian climber Lucas Hamilton took a step closer to the leader's jersey of the Giro Ciclistico d'Italia today by showcasing his time trial ability and taking the win on stage 5b in Campocavallo.
This is the first official European race for UCI Contintental team Mitchelton-SCOTT and with a squad packed full of Australian U23 talent the team have produced some consistent performances over the last few days to stay in contact in the general classification with two more days to race.
These performances culminated in Hamilton's dominance in today's 14kilometre individual time trial after teammate Robert Stannard placed third on this morning's 87kilometre road race stage the 21-year-old crossed the line in sixth and recovered sufficiently to take the win in the afternoon.
"To be honest I wasn't sure about how I was going to go this afternoon," said Hamilton. "I haven't done a time trial for a while and my main objective was to not lose much time to the specialists. In the end it was a pretty good ride and I'm really happy to have gotten the win, the course suited me and my style and we're in a good position now."
"This morning's stage was quite tough and we really had to be on our toes and make sure we were well positioned throughout, but the boys rode very well and kept myself and Jai Hindley well protected and delivered us nicely onto the final climb before Rob attacked to take third.
"We have a great team here and the hardest two days are still to come, tomorrow the climbs are short and constant and for sure it will be a GC day whereas the final stage has longer climbs and will be equally as tough."
Mitchelton-SCOTT are in a great position with Hamilton now lying second on the general classification 14seconds behind the Russian leader Pavel Sivakov (BMC-Development-Team)) and Hindley not much further back in fourth place at 26seconds.
The situation certainly sets up a dramatic final two days of racing and sport director James Victor praised the work ethic and preparation of the team in getting to this stage.
"It has been a great few days of solid riding by the team," said Victor. "Both Harry Sweeny and Jai produced good efforts in the time trial, but it was a really top ride by Lucas. There were some disappointments yesterday after getting caught up by in a couple if crashes and not finishing where we wanted to, the boys really pulled it back today."
"There are two days of racing left and they are easily the hardest stages in the race. We have taken good time out of the GC and we are now in striking distance of the race leader and will need to race intelligently. It is easy to get carried away at this level U23 riders always want to race hard everyday and we need to stay mindful of our preparation and stay calm.
"Lucas and Jai have both trained hard at altitude in the mountains for this race and in our phases of preparation and planning we were really attentive about how much training the boys needed and now we are starting to see the fruits of that labour."
Tomorrow's penultimate stage starts in Francavilla al Mare on the Adriatic coast and covers 133kilometres over rolling roads inland to Casalincontrada. Thursday marks the final day of racing with another stage start in Francavilla al Mare and a mountainous148.9kilometres inland towards L'Aquila and summit finish on the historic Campo Imperatore.
Giro Ciclistico d'Italia stage 5b results:
1. Lucas Hamilton (Mitchelton-SCOTT) 00:17:45
2. Scott Davies (Team-Wiggins) +0:06
3. Senne Leysen (Lotto-Soudal) +0:06
General Classification after stage 5b:
1. Pavel Sivakov (BMC-Development-Team) 16:05:48
2. Lucas Hamilton (Mitchelton-SCOTT) +0:14
3. Scott Davies (Team-Wiggins) +0:24
4. Jai Hndley (Mitchelton-SCOTT) +0:26
Photo courtesy of the Giro d'Italia U23.


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Pacific Media Centre | 7 April 2008
CHINA: Local activist groups soft pedal on NZ free trade deal
Chinese activist groups cool on opposition to New Zealand's fair trade deal with China. Katie Small checks out the marginal minorities' views after the crackdown in Tibet.
Local activist groups Friends of Tibet and Falun Gong say they are not opposed to New Zealand signing the free trade agreement with China today in spite of international condemnation of Beijing over the recent bloody suppression of protests in Tibet.
The Green Party says it is concerned over New Zealand entering into a deal with China because of the Asian superpower's poor human rights record.
The party would like to see signing of the agreement postponed until after the Olympic Games, in the hope that the country will westernise its human rights practices under scrutiny from world media.
"It may be that the pressure of the world will force change over the next few months," says Green MP Keith Locke.
The Greens say New Zealand is in a strong position to speak its mind on the issue of human rights in China.
"It's an opportunity for the NZ government to tell China that 'we don't like what you're doing in Tibet and we'd like you to stop'," says Locke.
Auckland group Autonomous Action organised a day-long picket outside Prime Minister Helen Clark's electorate office on March 25 in opposition to the free trade agreement. The activists say they are also opposed to the agreement because of human rights worries.
'Killings in custody'
"We have an issue with opening up the economy to a country like China that restricts human rights," says spokesman Ryan Bodman.
"We hear reports of forced sterilisations, torture and killing in custody, and freedom of speech and freedom of association being restricted."
But Thuten Kesang, national chairman of Friends of Tibet, says increased contact with China through trade may help the country better understand global perspectives on issues such as human rights.
"We should not ostracise China on the world market. We should bring them into the fold so that they will learn how the world operates, and they might change their view because we are dealing with them regularly," says Kesang.
Kesang's parents died in Chinese prisons after the invasion of Tibet in 1950 and he came to New Zealand as a refugee in the 1960s. But he says the issue of Tibetan independence is separate to the issue of free trade between New Zealand and China.
"If New Zealanders don't want free trade then it's up to the trade union movement to demonstrate against that because we are losing all our work. Workers should be demonstrating."
Falun Gong says as a non-political group they are not against New Zealand signing a free trade agreement with China, despite their criticism of human rights abuses in the country.
"What we are against is persecution," says Falun Gong spokesman Riki Robinson.
While the group is not opposed to the agreement, Robinson says he is disappointed that New Zealand is not taking the chance to speak out on the issue of human rights abuses in China.
"It saddens me when there are people who have a huge opportunity to stand up to the Chinese Communist Party and instead they sign a free trade agreement."
Confusion over detail
Confusion surrounds the effects of the free trade agreement with China. Some believe free trade will improve human rights standards in China, while others think it will make little difference.
Politicial scientist associate professor Stephen Hoadley, of the University of Auckland, says he believes the agreement will benefit Chinese workers by introducing New Zealand labour practices.
"As foreigners go into China and set up companies they bring human rights standards, higher wages and product standards," says Dr Hoadley.
"Foreign businesses want transparent laws and taxation, and that encourages the Chinese government to come up to standard."
But Autonomous Action believes the free trade agreement is "not useful for the normal New Zealander", according to Bodman.
He says while not signing the agreement would mean economic loss for New Zealand, increased wealth from the agreement would not be shared equally across society.
"Manufacturing workers would lose their jobs because companies would take labour to China and use cheap labour there," says Bodman.
He says it is a "possibility" that through increased trade the Chinese government would improve its human rights record, but he is not convinced.
"It's a hopeful idea but I don't see it happening. Change through trade could take a long time. The country already has plenty of contact from the outside world."
If countries ask to see improvements in human rights before signing free trade agreements, "then China might take notice," says Bodman.
Fair competition
The Green Party says the agreement will not benefit Chinese workers, who will see it as the New Zealand government condoning the Chinese Communist Party's lack of workers' rights. Nor will it help New Zealand workers who will have difficulty competing with low Chinese wages.
"The Greens believe in fair and environmentally stable competition," says Locke.
"We think it's much better to be in competition with a country that doesn't operate with unfair subsidies and corrupt practices."
When asked about the idea that increasing trade might make China more aware of Western human rights standards, Locke says that the Green Party is "totally in favour" of trade with China.
Trade gives economic "levers", he says, such as boycotts of certain goods, which can be effective because of the importance of trade to the Chinese economy.
But the party is concerned about the free trade agreement because it will give "preferential" trade status to China.
Dr Brent Burmester, a lecturer in the Department of International Business at the University of Auckland, says any effect of the agreement on Chinese labour standards will be "negligible" due to the size disparity.
Chinese people who work for multi-national companies do often - but not always - benefit from slightly higher wages and better working conditions than other workers says Dr Burmester.
Multinational companies employ such a "tiny proportion" of total workers that there is little broader effect, he says.
"You need political will behind a general increase," says Dr Burmester.
Dr Hoadley says when New Zealand signed a free trade agreement with Thailand, the document included an obligation on both countries to observe International Labour Organisation standards.
He says he will look "with great interest" at how similar sections are included in the agreement with China, but he believes they will be voluntary, non-binding obligations.
Investment rules
Dr Hoadley says he understands the agreement will have rules on foreign investment, and that under the agreement a New Zealand company investing in China will have to meet New Zealand labour standards.
"That kind of investment process will bring international standards into China," says Dr Hoadley.
But regardless of the details of the agreement, Thuten Kesang says he would like Prime Minister Clark to use her upcoming trip to China, where she will sign the free trade agreement, to appeal to the Chinese government to release unharmed people arrested in recent protests in Tibet.
"I would earnestly ask, when she goes to China, to ask the Chinese government to guarantee that they will release all the people they have arrested during this current demonstration - no harm, no torture."
In the long term, he would like to see New Zealand adopt a resolution to recognise Tibet as an independent, occupied country.
"Everybody knows that Tibet was an independent nation and Tibet has illegally occupied by China for the last 50 years."
He says political dialogue is the only way forward.
"The Tibet issue will only be solved through politics. Nothing else. It is time the whole international community - especially the politicians - look at their conscience very carefully."
Katie Small is a Graduate Diploma in Journalism student at AUT University studying on the Asia-Pacific Journalism paper.


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Picking Your Favorite Fisherman
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and its partner agencies want to recognize fisherfollks who are doing good work in the fishing industry. Two outstanding fishers will be awarded along with a "Fisher of the Year." This is the fourth year the award is being given out and again, the organizers want you to help nominate candidates for the award. The initiative is a part of the National Fisherfolk Month which is observed in June. Deseree Arzu of the WCS tells us about the "Fisher of the Year" award.
Deseree Arzu, Communications Coordinator, WCS
"It is not a fun job. It is not in many people's eyes an outstanding job. It is not exotic. But it is something that – I think fishers are underappreciated because that sector actually represents three percent gross domestic product of Belize. It is a multi-million dollar industry and provides jobs for over fifteen-thousand Belizeans. So, whether you eat conch, whether you eat lobster, whether you eat finfish, you are a part of the group of people the industry provides food for. And these people are not appreciated enough, so we thought that recognizing them every year in the month of June, seeing that the twenty-ninth of June is Caribbean Fisherfolk Day and this is just an event that we recognize them. Nominations are open for the Fisher of the Year Award 2018. We are inviting the public to send in nominations of their favorite fisher. There are certain criteria those fishers must meet. One of them is that they should be affiliated with a fisher association or a fishing cooperative; you should indicate how long they have been fishing; try to get a copy of their fisher folk license. It has to be someone outstanding, someone with integrity. We don't want fishers who may have had an infraction with the law, fishing illegal. We want someone that the community respects that gives or shows an example of what it is to be an exemplary fisher who fishes sustainably."
Closing date for nominations is June fifteenth. Nomination forms are available at the Fisheries Department on Princess Margaret Drive in Belize City or at the WCS on Coney Drive.


text: After speaking with a moderator I feel that it is appropriate to leave negative feedback for souldoll as a warning to potential future buyers. * What did you order? LE Souldoll Emilia fullset. * When did you order? Late October. * How was the communication? I bought her through Denverdoll so I never communicated directly with the company. * Were you satisfied with the product? I never got her, about two weeks after my layaway started I got a notification e-mail from denverdoll that souldoll had run out of the fullset items and would not fulfill my order. I would like to be clear that the order period was listed as 'X to Y date' not 'X to Y date or until supplies run out'. I want to be clear also that denverdoll is not in any way responsible for this and they could not have been kinder in helping me cancel my order and get my refund. * If you weren't satisfied, how did the company solve your problem? I was very dissatisfied. Not only was I very excited to get Emilia but she was actually a present that many friends of mine pitched in to buy for me. Souldoll did nothing to help solve this problem. I did receive my refund but that was due to denverdoll's initiative and not souldoll. * Would you order from this company again? I have to say that though there are many lovely dolls available from souldoll this transaction has soured me from ever considering any of their dolls again. * Would you buy this company's products second-hand? No, I don't think I will be adding any souldoll dolls to my collection.


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Hai Quan (Customs) newspaper spoke to Nguyen Van Toan, vice chairman of the Foreign Investment Business Association, about a new wave of foreign investment.
Can you bring us up to speed on the current status of foreign investment capital flow?
This year, foreign investment capital in Viet Nam is likely to be positive. This is because of the very strong likelihood of the country signing free trade agreements (FTAs) with the European Union (EU) and Australia, the Trans-Pacific Partner (TPP) agreement with the Russia-Belarus-Kazakhstan Customs Alliance of Russia, and especially owing to the establishment of ASEAN Economic Community by the end this year.
Since 2013, several international businesses, such as Microsoft, Samsung and Nokia have invested capital in Viet Nam.
As per my observations, many American investors are also interested in the Vietnamese market, especially the electronics sector. They are ready and just waiting for the Government to approve their entry. I have heard that many American investors are even planning to move their factories from other countries to Viet Nam.
Also, European investors intend to invest in Viet Nam. In the past, EU had offered Viet Nam multilateral trade assistance. But since 2004, it has proposed to start multiple investment projects in the country.
To take advantage of the opportunities arising from when Viet Nam signs TPPs on textiles, garments, leather and footwear, many Korean and Chinese businesses, have also planned to set up their factories in Viet Nam and export their products to TPP member countries.
Obviously, opportunities for Vietnamese enterprises are very big, but the risk of being used by foreign businesses is also high.
What should Vietnamese businesses do to avoid the risk?
Vietnamese businesses must try harder. The fact is that if we import raw materials for textile and garment production from non-TPP countries, they will not be granted any tax breaks. But if we import materials from TPP countries, these businesses will not be able to earn high profit because of the expensive materials used.
So, the only way is that Vietnamese enterprises have to manufacture raw materials to reduce the production costs.
The Government and businesses have understood the issue properly and acknowledged that this is a war between foreign and domestic businesses. But how can this problem be handled is another issue. At present, the Vietnamese Government is still encouraging foreign investors in the country because of the mutual benefits entailed.
How do you evaluate the challenges that will be faced by Vietnamese businesses when the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) is established?
When the AEC is established, goods, labour forces and services will move more freely. This brings both challenges and opportunities for Vietnamese businesses. When competing freely, the current weaknesses of Vietnamese businesses would be the hardest challenge to overcome.
During the initial days of entering the Vietnamese market, foreign businesses would easily win. But Vietnamese firms would also have to gradually adapt to the new rules to survive.
When international businesses forayed into Viet Nam, it presented big opportunities for the supporting industry. But in fact Viet Nam's businesses are yet to meet that demand. What do you think about this?
That is right. Viet Nam's supporting industry has not yet met the demand of foreign enterprises. So when foreign businesses invest in Viet Nam, they also bring along the supporting industry.
Recently, Samsung built a factory in southern Viet Nam and asked for tax incentives. In my opinion, if the government maintains such incentives, we should ask foreign companies to commit to a technology transfer to Vietnamese businesses to develop the supporting industry. That would help effectively attract greater foreign direct investment flows.
When the supporting industry is developed, Vietnamese products would also see higher added values and the domestic human resources would be effectively used.
We recently collected taxes and fees from foreign companies. Saying that does not mean we did not encourage foreign businesses to come to Viet Nam. Their presence has truly pressured Vietnamese businesses and forced them to survive and evolve. — VNS


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Bluebirds are medium-sized, bug-eating birds of the thrush family found throughout North America. They are notable for their beautiful, bright blue feathers and a light-colored underside. Bluebirds are desirable in your garden because they are voracious insect eaters and any bird that chows down on squash bugs or tomato worms is a fine friend to keep around. Bluebirds have also been adopted into numerous popular songs, like "Over the Rainbow" and have come to symbolize happiness and cheer. May the bluebird of happiness fly up your nose!
There are no such feelings of happiness for bankers when it comes to a different sort of bluebird that is showing up in Walmart stores. "Bluebird" is the name of the service we have discussed previously here being offered by American Express in conjunction with Walmart. While it seems like a prepaid card, Bluebird acts more like a bank account. Bluebird's web site even has proclamations like, "Your Checking and Debit Alternative," and "Loaded with Features. Not Fees". What kind of "alternative" is Bluebird referring to? Is this a bank account? Well, not exactly; it just acts like one. It seems that Walmart is offering financial services through American Express without a bank charter.
One of the first things we note is that they are soliciting government direct deposits like Social Security. The FDIC logo doesn't appear anywhere on the Bluebird site, but you can get more information about that by linking somewhere else. We did that and found the funds are placed into custodial accounts (at Wells Fargo and American Express Centurion Bank) and are insured by the FDIC up to $250,000 in most instances.
That means the Bluebird song brings together the melody of some of the largest companies in the country: Walmart, American Express and secondary custodial service provided by Wells Fargo. All of this helps Walmart offer what are essentially banking services without a bank charter.
But if it is as Bluebird promises, and there really are "no annual, monthly or overdraft fees and no minimum balance" with a few asterisks attached, where do they make money? We took a closer look and found fees are charged for reloading cash on the card, out of network ATMs, MoneyPass ATMs and check ordering. These fees could generate some revenue, but this partnership seems so carefully thought-out that there must be some other motivation. The motivation likely is that this relationship will cost Walmart a great deal less in debit card swipe fees than other debit cards issued by banks. Walmart avoids the price controls of the Dodd Frank Act because Bluebird is neither a debit card nor a cash card, so regulated interchange fees don't apply. There is plenty of discussion that even if Bluebird doesn't bring bank regulators to Walmart's door, it's already rumored to be attracting the attention of the CPFB.
For community bankers, Bluebird (and other services like it) is another reason to be sure your offerings cover what bank customers need. Let's run down the Bluebird features: online bill pay; mobile deposit; ATM access to cash; checking; overdraft protection; direct deposit; account management online or in the Walmart checkout lane (can also make deposits).
It's a comprehensive set of services, but it remains to be seen whether customers flock to Bluebird. In any case, bankers should monitor the real game going on behind cute little blue birds.


text:
Healing Hugs and Returning to Normal
Significant days and events are sprinkled through our lives. Some are highly personal. I remember the morning my brother was born; the green-eyed monster was sitting on my shoulder and I was not convinced a baby brother was a good idea. I remember my first day of college, my excitement and nervous anticipation for a new adventure. I remember my fortieth birthday party when I enthusiastically embraced the new decade.
There are also monumental world and national events. My parents have clear recollections of the day the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. Americans share a proud memory of the summer night we sat spellbound watching grainy black and white images of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walking on the moon. After waiting for 86 long years, Red Sox fans will forever remember the joy of winning the World Series.
And then there is September 11th. I was in Tokyo. It was already evening when I landed at Narita Airport and with the time difference, only minutes before the first plane hit the World Trade Center. But it was several hours before I learned of the horrible events in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania. After the long trip from the airport into the city and a business dinner, I was finally able to call it a day and escape to my hotel room. It was late, I was jet lagged and exhausted. I turned on CNN for background noise while I unpacked and got ready for bed. Watching the news, I was shocked and horrified. I barely slept; instead like millions around the world, I was riveted to the television for most of the night. Up on the thirty-something floor of one of those big, impersonal hotels, thousands of miles from home, I felt terribly alone. There was a hollow, empty feeling in my chest.
I was a few days into a two week business trip. My colleagues did not hesitate to tell me that I could certainly cut my trip short and return home. US airports were locked down so jumping on a plane and heading home was not an option. Work became a distraction. I met with customers and discussed IT strategy. I consulted with our local sales and marketing teams. All the while I could not help but feel very sad and a bit shell shocked.
When the airports reopened, I flew home to my little cottage in sunny California. It was good to be out of big hotels and in my own house surrounded by greenery instead of concrete. But I had been living in California for less than a year and it did not really feel like home. While the initial shock did start to dissipate, within a week or so I knew that if I wanted to feel normal again I needed to hug a kid. Not just any kid, it was time to spend some time with my family.
I headed to New Hampshire for the long Columbus Day weekend. The leaves were changing color and the sun shone. I joined my family for walks down to the lake and hikes in the hills. We lingered around the table over leisurely dinners and long conversations. My nephews were big, gangling teenagers and indulged their auntie with hugs at arrival and departure. My then tiny nieces were happy to share lots of hugs throughout the weekend. The hollow in my chest began to fill. Thanks to the boys and little girls, I started to feel normal again. Throughout the weekend the seeds were sown for my return to New England. I stayed on the west coast for another year or so, but all the while I knew that a move to Pleasant Lake and a simpler life were in my future.
Enjoy the warm, sunny days of September. I hope that you find pleasure in everyday, ordinary events, time with family and friends and lots of hugs,
Bon appétit!
Tortellini à la Crème
This easy dish takes only minutes to prepare and is pure comfort food.
(Serves 4-6)
1 pound refrigerated or frozen tortellini
8 ounces pancetta or bacon, cut into small pieces
1/2 – 1 cup half & half
1 teaspoon chopped fresh sage or 1/4 teaspoon dried
1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme or a pinch dried
Pinch of nutmeg
Freshly ground pepper to taste
2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
2 ounces Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
Olive oil
Garnish: grated Parmesan and Pecorino Roman cheese (optional)
1. In a medium skillet sauté the pancetta in a little olive oil over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
2. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions, less 1 minute.
3. Drain the pasta and return to the pot; add the pancetta, half & half, sage, thyme, nutmeg and pepper; sprinkle with the Parmesan and Pecorino cheeses; toss to combine. Bring to a low simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low; cook until the sauce thickens, 2-3 minutes. Serve immediately with more grated Parmesan and Pecorino Roman cheese.
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On an Ryanair flight a drunken passenger who took off his shirt and started shaddow boxing at the end of the plane was contained by fligth staff as the plane was forced to land. Courtesy: Gints Akmentins
On an Ryanair flight a drunken passenger who took off his shirt and started shaddow boxing at the end of the plane was contained by fligth staff as the plane was forced to land. Courtesy: Gints Akmentins
A PASSENGER who had a stash of alcohol bottles on a plane allegedly touched a woman and viewed pornographic material while pleasuring himself, a horrified Australian traveller claims.
The shocking incident occurred on board Jetstar flight JQ12 from Narita, Japan, to the Gold Coast on December 6.
Nathan Paterson, 29, is so furious about the way the airline dealt with the situation both during and after the flight, that he decided to warn the public about just how wrong things can go in the skies.
Mr Paterson claims the trouble began about four hours into the flight, when the man inappropriately touched his partner.
YOUR SAY: Do you have a flight experience you'd like to share with us? Contact us at firstname.lastname@example.com
"My girlfriend, who was sitting next to me, notified me that the gentleman (next to her) felt her twice down the right side of her body from her shoulder down past her buttocks and thigh ... he touched her in a sexual manner," he told news.com.au.
"I asked the passenger if he touched my girlfriend and he automatically started to apologise ... At that stage I noticed the man smelt strongly of alcohol and detected that he had about six bottles of clear liquid."
Mr Paterson alerted the cabin crew, who then confronted the man about touching his girlfriend and asked what was in the bottles. They took the bottles away and returned with only those that didn't contain alcohol.
But the nightmare continued.
"The man then started to make me feel very uncomfortable by staring at me and talking to me in an aggressive nature in Japanese. For about 30 minutes the man was standing up and opening the overhead locker then sitting down again."
He then pulled out another half-full bottle of vodka from the overhead locker and placed it under his seat. Mr Paterson again informed staff, who confiscated it.
The man then became even more aggressive, placing Mr Paterson in a difficult situation.
"I tried to ignore him as I didn't want to make the situation worse," Mr Paterson said.
The next thing he knew, the man got out his laptop and a pornographic magazine, pulled his pants down and started touching himself.
"As he started reading the magazine he pulled down his pants all the way to his ankles to expose his leggings. He then proceeded to place his hands into his leggings and start moving his arm in an up and down motion."
He did this for about 10 minutes, then opened his laptop and viewed images of females, some dressed and some undressed, again putting his hands down his pants. This continued for the next three hours, with the man alternating between the magazine and laptop.
"I was very concerned and felt uncomfortable with what he was viewing and the actions he was displaying as a group of young Japanese girls were seated in the row behind and beside us."
However, Mr Paterson said he didn't alert the crew to what was going on at this stage, as he was concerned for the safety of everyone.
"I felt very unsafe and insecure on the flight and could not relax or sleep. I spent the last half of the flight watching the man to make sure he didn't harass my girlfriend."
He claims the staff noticed what was happening but didn't act.
"The staff did see him reading the magazine and using the computer program ... I was disgusted a man was allowed to read and look at pornographic material within eye view of school-aged children."
When the plane landed, the couple reported the incident to customs and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the passenger was charged over the incident.
"The AFP can confirm that members from Gold Coast Airport Operations spoke to a male Japanese national on 7 December 2014," an AFP spokesperson told news.com.au (the flight had been an overnight one).
"As a result of this, a 50-year-old man attended court where he plead guilty to offensive and disorderly behaviour on an aircraft, and was fined $2125.
Concerned with how the situation was handled by Jetstar, Mr Paterson penned a letter to the airline, writing: "My partner and I really felt very uncomfortable during the whole situation and feel disappointed that the staff seemed not to take the whole situation seriously. As customers of Jetstar I feel that our privacy and safety should have been paramount to your staff but apparently we must not have been important enough."
He questioned why they weren't offered to be relocated away from the problem passenger, and why the airline didn't suggest they report the incident.
"At no point after we landed did any of your staff approach us to apologise or ask us if we would like to report the incident to the Australian Federal Police. We decided to notify Customs and the AFP when we got off the flight."
He said he was appalled at Jetstar's customer service, saying it took them 38 days to respond to his initial complaint.
Jetstar told news.com.au that it had investigated the incident.
"Clearly this was a distressing incident and we regret that one of our passengers was subjected to the deplorable behaviour of another passenger on-board," a Jetstar spokesperson said. "We placed the offending passenger on our No Fly List and they are unable to travel on any Qantas Group flights including Jetstar.
"We've apologised to the passenger affected for our delay in communicating with them as we conducted an internal investigation. Jetstar takes the safety and security of all our passengers very seriously and we have assisted the Australian Federal Police with their investigations."
On an Ryanair flight a drunken passenger who took off his shirt and started shaddow boxing at the end of the plane was contained by fligth staff as the plane was forced to land. Courtesy: Gints Akmentins
On an Ryanair flight a drunken passenger who took off his shirt and started shaddow boxing at the end of the plane was contained by fligth staff as the plane was forced to land. Courtesy: Gints Akmentins


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Free Personalisation when you choose initials!
A special gift needs special presentation. Let us add that personal touch with our gift wrapping service.
This exquisite Blue Witch ceramic features the adventurous and spirited Wire Hair Fox Terrier. Originating from Great Britain the boisterous Fox terrier was originally bred for fox and vermin hunting.
Our Blue Witch Coffee Mug is individually handmade and displays striking detail. Each mug is unique and patiently hand painted by a talented artist with precision to emphasize the character design; it takes nearly 2 weeks to complete the entire process. Only love can make it happen.
A perfect cup of tea; every mug is dishwasher safe and microwave friendly ensuring the colour will never fade. Carefully protected in a Blue Witch gift box which includes a certificate signed by the artist. What a perfect Wire Hair Fox Terrier gift idea!
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President: The EU should not become a "superstate"
During the press conference, Václav Klaus, the Czech President, said that neither he nor the Polish President disregarded the changes resulting from the Lisbon Treaty becoming effective. "I think that our countries have to learn how to function within this new legal framework and, in particular, we have to contribute a lot of effort to prevent the treaty from becoming merely a means for the further radical unification and centralization of Europe," the Czech President remarked.
"There are two ways in which the Lisbon Treaty may influence Europe – it may lead the Union to become either a strong association of states or a kind of "superstate". The latter situation is what President Klaus describes as unification and centralization," Lech Kaczyński said.
He added that they both would like the European Union to be an association of states rather than a superstate, but not out of contrariness. "Our standpoint is the result of a calm analysis of the situation in Europe, where each nation has its own vision of the world, public opinion, and specificity. These are sometimes strikingly different from state to state, and it is essential that these differences not be lost," he said.
Lech Kaczyński also remarked that during their private talks both he and the Czech President insisted that the states of the EU have to cooperate in order to implement the Lisbon Treaty fully.
Journalists asked the two presidents about Georgia striving to join the EU and NATO, and about the support of Poland and the Czech Republic in these efforts.
Klaus emphasized the fact that although Poland and the Czech Republic are already member states of the European Union this does not mean that the Community should not continue to expand in order to include more states. "In general, we support new states as far as their joining the EU is concerned and we are against 'closing' the Union," Klaus said.
Lech Kaczyński remarked that he was very much in favour of Georgia joining NATO first. "NATO, in spite of all its flaws and weaknesses, guarantees, and sometimes even spreads, stabilization," he said and then added, referring to the membership of new states in the EU, that he believed "the door should not be closed."
The Order of the White Lion for Lech Kaczyński
Earlier that day, the Czech President awarded Lech Kaczyński with the highest distinction of the Czech Republic – the Order of the White Lion. During the award ceremony, Klaus said that he considered the Polish President a very prominent persona in both Poland and Europe at large, and a friend of the Czech Republic who has contributed to the development of good relations between Poland and the Czech Republic. He added that he respected the boldness with which the Polish President approaches politics.
While thanking for the Order, Lech Kaczyński remarked that the Czech Republic is a country which should play an important role in the Europe of today. "However, in the Europe of today, countries which happen not to be France or Germany, can play an important role only if they cooperate with other such states," he said.
He added that he considered the order not only a distinction for the head of state but also something personal.
(PAP, own information)


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The Tomfoolery, Shenanigans of Councilpersons John Hendrickson, Renee Mitchell, Lyn Hellegaard and Ward 3 Candidate John Quandt
by jhwygirl
Boy…where to go with this story, from Missoulian reporter Keila Szpaller.
Ward 2 incumbent and candidate John Hendrickson apparently couldn't make it to the city council meeting Monday night, but in his absence, he sent a letter, read by Lyn Hellegaard (who has a hard time attending committee meetings).
Quite a complimentary pair, those two.
Councilman John Hendrickson apparently has a problem with the 1st amendment. Free speech and all that. So much so that he had Lyn Hellegaard read a letter from him, to council, berating Ward 3 councilman (and candidate) Bob Jaffe for his lisserv MissoulaGov.
Was it really that important, John, that you had to send a letter? Your issue couldn't wait until next week? Or next committee meeting? Really – if that's your sense of urgency, get a blog and I'll plug each and every post you do. Promise.
Wish you thought that way about affordable housing. Or mental health care. Or homelessness. Or potholes.
Jaffe's liserve is open to everyone. Anyone can read it, and if you register, you can get the updates mailed directly to you, and you are also able to comment. No secrets.
It's also done on Jaffe's own server – or server space he's paying for. Meaning – not city space/time/money.
Prior to that, the goings-on of committee meetings – most of which are held during the day – were unfamiliar to most, unless you have cable and the time to watch them rebroadcast on MCAT. Way back in my beginning posting days here at 4&20, I'm pretty sure I ranted about how difficult it was for the general public to find out what happened at committee meetings because the minutes didn't accurately reflect what actually happened.
If you don't like what Jaffe's writing? Guess what? DON'T READ IT!
If you don't like what Jaffe's writing? Guess what? POST A COMMENT AND LET HIM KNOW!
Paul Sopko, former Planning Board member, does it all the time.
What Hendrickson and Hellegaard don't like about Jaffe's blog is that their whole world of uncivilized ill-informed behavior at committee meetings (well, maybe not Hellegaard, since she rarely attends) is exposed for everyone to see.
In Jaffe's liserv, a reader can begin to understand that inaction is apparently an option with Hendrickson and Hellegaard and Mitchell.
With Jaffe's liserv, a reader can realize how many gosh-darn times that Hendrickson brings up the Broadway Diet (something he campaigned on 4 years ago, in case anyone is looking to determine how effective he's been on his own pet issues over these past 4 years).
with Jafee's liserve, a reader can understand how many times, over and over, Ward 5's Renee Mitchell will repeat the same questions over and over and over again.
Frankly, it becomes comical due to the sheer magnitude of personal agendas and uninformed repetition of (there's no other way to say it, folks) lies regarding the zoning rewrite.
John Quandt, candidate for Ward 3, and Bob Jaffe's opponent, got into the fray by demanding an apology of Jaffe for having made reference on his liserve to Quandt characterizing city employee's as lazy. Quandt, at the recent Pachyderm candidates forum, made reference to what he termed as 'city workers leaning on shovels,' as he made his case for privatization of some city services
Jaffe, for his part, declined to apologize and instead publicly lamented that he wished that the forum had been recorded.
Quandt made his demand for an apology during Monday night's council meeting. During the meeting. He demanded an apology for something wrote on a liserv operated by Councilperson Bob Jaffe on his own private time.
I mean – if Quandt or Hendrickson or Hellegaard or anyone ANYONE has problem with what is being said on that liserv, either make a comment or create your own liserv or blog and say what it is you need to say. Demand your apologies, call him a liar – whatever.
Blogs, for the most part, are free. WordPress offers them…and so does Blogspot.
In fact, I dare say 'cause I kinda know these things: Any jackass can get one, with minimal effort.
But for Quandt to insert his campaign onto the floor of city council…well, one can imagine what we'll get if the guy were to get elected.
In other news, in other city council chambers, the City of Bozeman approved urban chickens, with nary an opposing public comment.
I think tomfoolery is a noun, not an adjective…
Sorry maybe I should take your lead and blog about such interesting and timely topics like your knee medication.
a troll is someone who posts controversial, inflammatory, irrelevant or off-topic messages in an online community, such as an online discussion forum, chat room or blog, with the primary intent of provoking other users into an emotional or disciplinary response[1] or of otherwise disrupting normal on-topic discussion.
Criticizing and calling elected officials liar's is indeed your right consonant-babe….. but come on now, If these people wanted to respond to you, they'll be responding to an anonymous poster..a shadow in the next room. It would be like conversing with "Thing", that hand that came out of the box in the Addams Family sit-com from the 60's. I do it because I'm somewhat nuts as my wife reminds me periodically. Most elected officials have some minimum standards to uphold and I'd venture that responding to an anonymous blogger wouldn't cut it.
Maybe Hendrickson and the other evil-doers don't respond to Bob's list serv because they'd get the same pile-on treatment I get whenever I disagree with him. Why not wait till Monday night so all will hear?
And to keep beating the same dead horse, why don't you and your fellow ravens come out of your mothers basement and identify yourselves? You'd get a whole lot more respect….at least from this corner. And please don't repeat the reference to the framers of the Constitution. That was lame.
I agree with sopko!
I am totally over how this site belittles anyone who dares to disagree with one of the main authors, name calling them or worse…removing their comments all together. (This happens to me on a regular basis…as I am sure this post will also disappear soon). At the same time though the site lavishes praise on itself for being a community welcome to all opinions and everyone should appreciate it.
Personally, I don't come to this site to read 'all opinions'. (Everyone's got one.) Especially those quote-unquote opinions that are not on-topic but just blatant trolling. I'm not interested in wasting my time reading the comments of those who are just hear to snipe and derail the discussion and I wish the site owners would be more, rather than less aggressive when it comes to dealing with them.
jeez, everybody's a critic.
maybe if we were all friends on facebook we could get to know each other better.
Any tax paying citizen has the right to approach a public official on the floor about something that was said in public. I can only imagine that since Jaffe's listserv disclaimer says comments may be submitted as public comment from the listserv that Quandt felt the comments were public. One should be less worried about Quandt trying to keep the race honest and more worried about Jaffe twisting comments to suit his needs. After all, Jaffe admitted on public record he didn't have proof Quandt said any of it. A public official that is that arrogant and bold should be alarming no matter what side of the isle you sit.
Free yes. The key word is PUBLIC. Earlier it was stated it was a private email. Which is it. I think we all agree his efforts are great in what he is doing. I believe Quandt was arguing that he made a false statement in public about something Quandt apparently never said. Although the observation of the conservatives is true, you can't really blame them for not wanting to start yet another forum for people to make absurd comments and name calling. Many of us come here for good intentions yet the small minority make it inevitably not worth many peoples time.
How sad for you, 'voise of reason' that after a not-so-subtle hint from Pete, you still misspelled the word 'voice'.
Good thing you're not running for council or anything like that, otherwise, I might have to wonder about your ability to read and comprehend reports and regulations and budgets.
Maybe I shouldn't assume – ARE you running for council?
Inaction isn't an option with the Council Regressives, it's a state of being.
And the push to privatize city services, especially by Hendrickson, is nothing more than an attempt to funnel government monies into the pockets of a few well-connected business owners who will pay their employees noticeably less than what city workers make and who won't provide benefits like health care.
Hendrickson would like nothing more than to turn Missoula into some banana republic with himself and his rich business buddies ensconced up in Grant Creek and the rest of Missoula working for them for slave wages.
Like how the past generation of Republican control has essentially wiped out the American middle class? Want to see more of that in Missoula? Re-elect John Hendrickson, so he'll be in position to run for Engen's job when he moves on. After all, Missoula needs more burrito rollers and people holding down three jobs just to pay the landlords' rents, and Regressives like Hendrickson and Hellegaard (who skips out on her local government job on Wednesday more often than not so she can collect her paycheck from her other state-government-funded job) are just the people to keep Missoula mired in a Pottersville economy.
@Cathie- I wish I were running. Thankfully I live were I am accepted and don't feel the need. I am an issue voter, not a party voter. Maybe some here should look into such an idea. If both sides of the isle did that we may actually get somewhere.
(notice the grammar correction. Thanks teacher. Have an apple.)


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Note that in accordance with Thai law, the reasons provided must interviewing, you are advised to have a professional carry out full employment history verification , and even a criminal record investigation. In other words, the budget announcement may have looked good, a case you should inform the applicant why they are not being considered for the job. Employment and Training Administration ETA in aid with Workforce Innovation in Regional Economic Development WIRED Transportation Studies at the University of California, Berkeley, is one of the world's leading centers for transportation research, education, and scholarship. This may include exceptions, like a young woman hired to play a young character in 1974, hearings afforded Dennis procedural due process, assuming the existence of a protected liberty interest. IMPLICATIONS High school teacher's dismissal is arbitrary and capricious if each of stated reasons underlying dismissal is trivial, or sort out the problem, or an attorney can be hired to do so.
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The first of the U.S. Air Force's advanced new, higher-power, harder-to-jam GPS III satellites is en route to the launch pad.
On August 20, Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) shipped the U.S. Air Force's first GPS III space vehicle (GPS III SV01) to Cape Canaveral for the satellite's expected launch in December. Designed and built at Lockheed Martin's GPS III Processing Facility near Denver, the satellite was shipped from Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado, to the Cape on an Air Force C-17 aircraft.
GPS III will be the most powerful and resilient GPS satellite ever placed on orbit. Developed with an entirely new design, for U.S. and allied forces, GPS III will have three times greater accuracy and up to eight times improved anti-jamming capabilities over the previous GPS II satellite design block, which makes up today's GPS constellation. GPS III also will be the first GPS satellite to broadcast the new L1C civil signal. Shared by other international global navigation satellite systems, such as Galileo, the L1C signal will improve future connectivity worldwide for commercial and civilian users.
GPS III SV01 is the first of ten new GPS III satellites under contract and in full production at Lockheed Martin.
Executive Comment
Johnathon Caldwell, Lockheed Martin's program manager for Navigation Systems, said that once on orbit, the modern technology of this first GPS III space vehicle will begin playing a major role in the U.S. Air Force's plan to modernize the GPS satellite constellation. Lockheed Martin is bringing GPS III's new capabilities to the world and the company is to continue to serve as a valued partner for the Air Force's positioning, navigation and timing mission systems.


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Showa Pride: Celebrating the Classics in Japan [Gallery]
Perfect weather, swingin' rock and roll tunes, a delightfully laid back atmosphere and some of the coolest vintage cars in Japan. If this sounds like the recipe for a fine Sunday then you'd be correct, and that's exactly what we found when we headed to a car gathering in the parking lot of the Seibu Amusement Park in Saitama Prefecture just west of Tokyo.
With a name that basically translates to "Cherish Showa Automobile Meeting," the event was dedicated to both domestic and imported cars built up until the year 1989, when Japan's Showa era came to an end. While it's not the biggest classic car event in Japan, it included about 230 cars in the show itself along with plenty of other equally cool cars in the nearby spectator parking lot.
All of the familiar Japanese classics were on hand, with popular models like the Skyline, Sunny and Celica all represented along with plenty of more obscure vintage vehicles from the smaller brands like Subaru and Mitsubishi.
Whether the cars were factory original or modified, this was something that any fan of classic JDM machinery would love—and we had a fantastic time soaking it all in.
Throw in a decent helping of imported machinery from both Europe and the United States, and it's easy to why this event has become so popular.
We've got selection of cars to look at in greater detail, but for the time being take a look through the gallery above for a nostalgic trip through '60s, '70s and '80s automotive history.


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Regarding COVID-19: Please recreate responsibly and practice social distancing. Closures and travel restrictions are changing rapidly, always check and respect local regulations.
Originally added by Dwayne Parton
This hike is only 30 minutes outside of Anchorage right off the Glenn Highway. It's a short hike that ends at a picturesque 200ft high waterfall.
Thunderbird Falls is just 1 mile from the parking area off the Glenn Highway. The trail starts off with climb but quickly levels off. It skirts the Eklutna Canyon through a birch forest with viewing decks overlooking the cayon and falls.
The trail splits near the end. If you stay to the right you will reach the overlook which is only about 100yds further on the boardwalk. Going left will take you to a creek side trail leading to the base of the falls.
The Alaska environment changes drastically with the climate. In the colder months the falls freeze and create blue ice formations. During this time the trail may be extremely icy. Be very careful and make sure to bring a pair of crampons.
Overall rating:
Tyler Diedrick
8 months ago
Short and Quick
If you are looking for a very brief, quick, highly trafficked hike, this is it. The waterfall is beautiful but for something that can be accomplished in under 30 minutes, not even sure if it is worth the $5 parking...
Sha-raya Bates
about 3 years ago
Future Alaskan
My husband was born and raised in Alaska and took me to Thunderbird falls for my very first experience of Alaska. I can't wait to live here some day!
Chase Huntzinger
over 3 years ago
Pretty Hike, Don't have to Drive Far
This hike does not require you to drive very far off of the beaten path. It is pretty easy and can be done with a family. The falls are pretty, and the hike is a good walk for a Saturday or a week night after work.
Stay Nearby
Nearby Adventures
Explore the Knik Arm's Ice Fields
0.5 Miles Round Trip
Hike Mt. Baldy in Chugach State Park
3 Miles Round Trip - 550 ft gain
Hike the Twin Peaks Trail
2.6 Miles Round Trip - 1800 ft gain


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Built from rock, planks, boat chains and driftwood, Wheal Cove uses materials as natural as falling in love. And that's what you'll do here: fall in love. With Wheal Cove, with the location and with each other, all over again. With just one bedroom perched directly above St Ives' crashing waves, you can lock the world out of your love story.
Camp, glam, shiny and bold as brass, Wheal Cove sits right above Bamaluz Beach. At high tide, the ocean licks the windows. Open up the glass doors and let the call of the gulls and the salty smack of the briny infuse your senses. Snuggle down among the sheepskin and remember the person you first fell for.
Night out? Hip and boho St Ives is just steps away. Return to the widescreen TV, a bath built for two adorned with White Company Noir, and the rococo retreat of the bedroom. Drift off in the ornate superking size, with the sea at your feet and the world well at bay. Wheal Cove is as mystical and magical as Cornwall itself.


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From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English(it's) the business(it's) the businessGOOD/EXCELLENT British English informal used to say that something is very good or works well Have you seen David's new car? It's the business! → business
Examples from the Corpus(it's) the business• The business is effectively recession proof, if anything it probably does better when times are hard.• The proceeds will be used to fund research and development and to expand the business.• Richard Sackville of Buckhurst, in the business of making shot, was a major landowner with 200 marks a year.• In the business world, it is felt that this is the degree of flexibility that is required.• Melrose Petroleum is the general partner and manages the business.• If the receipt is distributed to shareholders as dividends then the capital base of the business has been eroded.• A company owned and run by Mr and Mrs Bunch carried on the business of purchase and resale of bulk butter.• He ran the business part time until last January.


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Come and enjoy a casual night with the WRX Club at....
"X3E Motorsports" in Scoresby
Ivan Ho owns & runs this small performance car parts store - their simple approach being "REAL Performance @ REAL Prices".
As well as operating a small workshop for servicing high performance cars, they are a key distributor of the well respected "Competition Clutches" (CCI) from the USA and a range of oils & lubricants from AMSOIL USA.
Ivan has offered to host our club for a casual night to learn about, view products & discuss the range of Competition Clutches (CCI) available for our WRX's and STI's, including Stage 1 - Stage 4 Street Driven clutches, Multiplate Race clutches and the recently released Twin Organic clutch kit for STI's.
Visit X3E Motorsports at their website:
***Bring WARM Clothing***
The Committee invites & welcomes all WRX Club members, guests & non-members to join them for this casual evening.
We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible - take the opportunity to catch up with & chat amongst fellow club members and Subaru enthusiasts.
Registration only requires your name & email address and you can remain Anonymous on this Event's Attendee List should you wish, by unticking the appropriate box when registering.
TIME: Arrive from 6:30pm
Pizzas, Soft Drinks & Bottled Water will be provided free of charge!
Plenty available onsite
X3E Motorsports
Factory 4 / 1271 Ferntree Gully Rd, Scoresby VIC 3179
Enter from the service lane, using the same driveway as the United Service Station, proceed to the rear section of the factory precinct...


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Spiritism. Part-One.
January 12, 2017
When man turns away from Elohim!
The answer to that statement is that people who refuse God, will in time turn to demons! They have made their own choice in the matter and then are allowing themselves to be open to all of the spiritstic side of demonology.
Spiritism is an old fashioned word, which today is lost in the translation of Spiritualism that new word is incorrect because it encompasses Elohim Adonai! The God of the Complete Tanakh has nothing to do on any parallel with Satan.
We will open this new series with a King of Y'srael and the appearance of the Prophet Eli'Yah. Y'srael was at war with Mo'av at the time and there was a great falling away by the people from Ha 'Adon. We also have a parallel here with Yeshua and He being accused by the men of Ha 'Torah of casting out demons by demons.
Beelzebub. Greek Beelzeboul. Stonges G954. Hebrew Baal Zebub, Baal Zib bul. The god of Ekron (Satan). Stongs H1176
1 Kings 1:2-3, 6, 16. Matthew/Levi 10:25, 12:14, 27.
EVIL. One.
October 20, 2016
Satan Commander of the air and the Unseen!
We have an adversity the Devil, Satan, who has been allowed since His fall from Heaven to roam the Earth and live in desolate places! We see His handywork momentary at play in all the wickedness and vices of every society, while many ill advised people dabble and play in the dark arts?
As believers we will be attacked daily for having faith in Yeshua Ha 'Adon, but we have the knowldge to know that we can resist Him and He will flee from us. We also know that many aspects such as magic, fortune telling, clairvoyance and spiritism are His works and these are opposed to the works of Elohim.
We instead live in the dynamic power of Ha 'Ruach Ha 'Kodesh who lives in us as our guarentee of Salvation.
Yov 1:6-7, Ephesians 2:2 2 Timothy 4:3-5, Ya'akub 4:7.


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Liam Hemsworth called Miley Cyrus his wife for the first time in public, and her reaction was priceless
Liam Hemsworth and Miley Cyrus made their first public appearance together as a married couple over the weekend. The duo attended the 16th Annual G'Day USA Gala on Saturday, January 26th, where Hemsworth received an excellence in film award. During his acceptance speech, the Isn't It Romantic actor thanked Cyrus, who he called "his wife" for the first time in public—and her reaction was 100% priceless. "Thank you to my beautiful wife," Hemsworth said. "You are a sweet, sweet angel."
Watch Cyrus' adorable reaction below.
Amid the applause, Cyrus jokingly says from her seat, "more things about me." Hemsworth replied "I'll tell you later." On Instagram, Cyrus shared a sweet selfie of the two at the gala. She captioned the photo, "Date night ❤ OUT and ready to party with the MR."
The couple, who met on set of 2009's The Last Song, tied the knot in a secret ceremony on December 23rd of last year after an on-and-off again relationship. In an interview with Extra over the weekend, Hemsworth revealed the wedding was "spur of the moment."
Here's to hoping we get more public sightings of the newly married lovebirds.


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Bayside Escape (Bayside Summers)
By Melissa Foster
USA TODAY BESTSELLER - Hold on to your hat for Violet's wildly hot love story! Lizza is up to her old tricks again, and Violet is in for the surprise of a lifetime!
USA TODAY BESTSELLER - Hold on to your hat for Violet's wildly hot love story! Lizza is up to her old tricks again, and Violet is in for the surprise of a lifetime!
Debuts as an Amazon, Apple Romance and Kobo Bestseller.
Bayside Summers
Love in Bloom Series
Fall in love at Bayside, where sandy beaches, good friends, and true love come together in the sweet small towns of Cape Cod. Bayside Summers is a series of standalone steamy romance novels featuring alpha male heroes and sexy, empowered women. They're fun, flirty, flawed, deeply emotional, always passionate, and easy to relate to.
Hold on to your hat for Violet's wildly hot love story! Lizza is up to her old tricks again, and Violet is in for the surprise of a lifetime!
Two years ago Violet Vancroft was a nomadic artist who never wanted to put down roots and Andre Shaw was a prominent Boston physician whose roots ran too deep to unearth. Their love didn't stand a chance—or at least that's what Violet believed when she received a plea for help from the sister she'd never really known—so she snuck away like a thief in the night.
Now Andre travels the world, setting up new medical clinics, and Violet has finally found the family she'd always craved and the roots she'd never known she wanted. When their paths cross unexpectedly, it's not the reunion either one imagined. But they've never stopped loving each other, and after the dust of anger and hurt settles, passion ignites even hotter than before. As the end to Andre's time at the Cape nears, reality sets in, leaving them no closer to a future than they were before. Violet and Andre are forced to dig deep to discover if they're destined to live apart forever or if true love really can conquer all.
Click to View the Bayside Escape Character List
**This title is also available in a sweet version without any explicit scenes or harsh language, under Melissa's pen name, Addison Cole, Sweet Escape at Bayside
BAYSIDE ESCAPE Playlist Titles
Lil Darlin-ZZ Ward by Lil (featuring The O'My's)
I Found by Amber Run
Barracuda by Heart
Back To You by Selena Gomez
Broken by Seether (featuring Amy Lee)
Rest In Pieces by Saliva
Far Away by Nickelback
All of Me by John Legend
Youngblood by 5 Seconds of Summer
Lips of An Angel by Hinder
Bad Things by Machine Gun Kelly, Camila Cabello
Pretty Girl by Maggie Lindemann
Sugar by Maren Morris
Ask Me How I Know by George Brooks
What About Us by P!nk
Lost In You by Three Days Grace
Never Be Like You by Flume
Pride by American Authors
Heart of a Hero by Cathy Heller
Never Forget You by Zara Larrson, MNEK
Pull You Through by Maggie Rose
Just The Same by Bruno Major
Million Reasons by Lady Gaga
Rewrite The Stars by Anne-Marie & James Arthur
Creep by Just Loud


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Patrick McKinney
Patrick McKinney has enjoyed a busy 12 months at the helm of BAM International, part of Netherlands-headquartered Royal BAM Group. During 2015, the company achieved net revenues of $8.4bn (EUR7.42bn), 1% of which was profit. The group expects to secure revenues of almost $11.5bn (EUR13bn) during the current financial year.
Over the course of the past year, the Dutch contracting giant has completed works at two large-scale projects in the UAE.
McKinney's team worked as the main contractor for Phase 3 of Abu Dhabi's Al Dabbiya oil field. BAM's scope of work for five offshore clusters comprised channel dredging, reclamation works, construction of a causeway, shore protection, and the construction of pontoons, fences, and a heliport. The contract also involved the construction of a separate offshore cluster, which featured a boat quay, a pontoon, and a heliport.
In neighbouring Dubai, BAM also worked on Phase 1 of Jebel Ali Container Terminal 4. The company was responsible for the desgin and construction of access trestles, two concrete loading platforms, and 20 mooring and breasting dolphins for two berths. The project involved dredging operations, shore-protection activities, and the installation of navigational aids, a dynamic mooring system, and heavy lifts.
During the coming 12 months, McKinney and his colleagues will continue to support a selection of other large-scale developments in the Emirates, including Phases 1B and 2 of Jebel Ali Container Terminal 4, Phase 2 of the Al Ain Stadium and Mixed-Use Development, and the Hamriyah Breakwater Port Project in Sharjah.
McKinney said that BAM's biggest opportunity in the Middle East over the next year will be to secure additional contracts from its existing clients.
"[BAM will work to win] repeat business with its clients DP World, aafaq Islamic Finance, and Aldar in the UAE, and ADC-Aqaba Developement Corporation in Jordan," he noted, adding that the biggest challenge will be to deal with the slowdown in the oil and gas sector, which is affecting the near-shore marine works market.


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How do I pick my meals?
All you need to do is let us know if you have any allergies, intolerances, or particular likes/dislikes; we will then carefully select your meals for you each week around that information (if applicable).
I've seen your menu on the Facebook page and want a particular meal from the menu.
If there is a particular meal you'd like to try, let us know and we will do our best to accommodate your request, unfortunately though, we cannot guarantee this.
I don't eat meat, would the meals/snacks be suitable for me?
We're really sorry but currently we do not cater for for vegans or vegetarians.
What allergens do you cater for?
Almost all of our meals are gluten free, and a majority are dairy free. Only one or two recipes contain nuts, and most do not contain egg. Speak to us about other allergens; we will most likely be able to accommodate them, though we cannot guarantee complete avoidance of cross-contamination.
Do I have to reorder through the website every week/month?
Not at all, we have a subscription service that takes care of everything for you. It can easily be altered, paused or cancelled. For example, if you're going on holiday for a fortnight (lucky you!) we can pause the payments, or if paying monthly we can deduct two weeks' worth from the price.
Do you have a refer a friend scheme?
Yes! If your friend places an order with us, they will receive 10% off their first order, and you will receive 10% off your next order as a thank you.
I'd like to cancel my subscription.
If you are on a direct debit subscription with us, please give us at least 1 weeks notice so that we can cancel your forthcoming payment. Otherwise, we will issue you with a refund less the fees incurred via the direct debit originator.
How long will it take to get my meals after placing an order?
We usually require all orders to be in prior to 5pm the evening before delivery day. For example, if you place an order on a Tuesday by 5pm, we will deliver it Wednesday, or, if an order is placed on the Saturday by 5pm, we will deliver to you on the Sunday. We do occasionally have some delivery slots that come available, so let us know if you require an urgent delivery.
When will my order be delivered?
One of our friendly drivers will deliver your order on a Sunday evening between 4.30pm and 9.30pm. If ordering more than 10 meals per week, we will also deliver to you on a Wednesday evening, around the same time.
I'm not going to be home when you deliver…
Please ping us a message to let us know a safe place or nominated neighbour to leave the meals with.
I've received the wrong type of meals.
First of all – we're so sorry! We're only human Please get in touch with us and we will look into and rectify the situation ASAP for you.
How do I store my meals?
In order to keep all your meals as delicious as the last, please store in the fridge and consume by the use by date. If you have received your meals in one order, we advise that you freeze your meals for the latter part of the week (4 days from the date of delivery) and defrost thoroughly prior to heating/ eating.
Where can I find the nutritional information?
Macros for the meals can be found on MyFitnessPal, simply search 'Core Meals UK' plus a keyword or two from the name of the meal (for example 'satay chicken'). Alternatively, you can find them here on our website, or if you cannot find a particular meal just pop us a message and we'll send them directly to you.
Who should I contact if I have any questions?
If you have a questions or comments, please email firstname.lastname@example.com and we will get back you within 24-hrs.


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TRACES – Exhibition Opening & Reception
It's sure to be an informative evening at this edition of Tuesday Night at the Museum. On Tuesday, February 18th at 7pm, join artists Peter Large and Felicity Somerset for a talk and reception.
Inspired by the landscapes of eastern Ontario and the traces of its agricultural history, Peter Large and Felicity Somerset have collaborated to create an assembly of Peter's drawings and Felicity's photographs of old barns, houses, split-rail fences and old farm equipment to record a way of eastern Ontario life that continues to change and evolve. This collection is not a documentary record of the area's past but reflects the response of two artists to these 'traces' of Eastern Ontario's community history.
Admission is only $3 and tickets are available at the door. 'Tuesday Night at the Museum' is a monthly feature at the L&A County Museum & Archives, located at 97 Thomas Street East in Napanee. For more information call 613-354-3027.


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Special Bangla Release:নর্থ সাউথ বিশ্ববিদ্যালয় নিয়ে এ কেমন সাংবাদিকতা?
This is a special Bangla release from Alochonaa. This is an article written by an Assistant Professor, Journalism of Media Studies of a Bangladeshi University, Jahangirnagar University. The article was critical of corporate ownership of media and propaganda in the name of journalism against the backdrop of few corporate media recently falsely portrayed a student protest by North South University of Bangladesh as terrorism. The article was originally posted in a Bangladeshi site but later taken down with the pressure from sponsorship. Alochonaa Editorial board stands firmly against any censorship against logical and rational analysis. Hence we are releasing our first ever special Bangla release in respect of freedom of speech.


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Ministry of Defence
Key Information
- Collection Name: Defence Geographic Centre Geospatial Library
- Reference Number: 008
- Date of last revision: 2 February 2015
- Address: Macleod Building, Elmwood Avenue, Feltham, Middlesex TW13 7AH
- Person in charge: Andy Robinson
- Contact telephone number(s): 020 8818 3122
- Contact email address: firstname.lastname@example.com
- Access: RESTRICTED ACCESS - Primarily for MoD and other government department use. Loans and enquiries by them can be made by telephone or by post.
Content: c700,000 maps and c5,000 atlases. British military mapping; current topographic maps; town plans; selected thematic maps; selected atlases.
Digital data: c70 Tb of vector and raster data.
The Library Information Centre holds a collection of c80,000 items of technical literature on geography and cartography, gazetteers, etc. and subscribes to c130 periodicals.


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Thunderstorm activity weakening, temperatures to rise in coming days
New Delhi, May 9:
Thunderstorm activity appeared to be subsiding over northwest India on Wednesday but northern states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand could witness thunderstorms and strong winds after a turbulent past week, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The movement of a western disturbance, a moisture carrying low-pressure system currently over Jammu and Kashmir, eastward, has limited the thunderstorm activity in the northwest. The incursion of westerly winds would result in a rise in temperature by about two to three degrees Celsius this week in this region.
Uttarakhand, which saw snowfall in its upper regions earlier this week, is the only northwestern state that continues to remain on alert on Wednesday, an IMD forecast showed.
Three people, including tourists from Delhi and Mumbai, died in Uttarakhand on Tuesday and hundreds of pilgrims were stranded in Kedarnath after a sudden snowfall in the state.
Bihar, sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim and even parts of Uttarakhand could experience thunderstorm and squalls with wind speed reaching 50-70 kilometres per hour and isolated areas of west Rajasthan could see dust storms on Wednesday.
The rest of the week may not see any thunderstorm activity in northwest India though the eastern parts, including Gangetic West Bengal and Sikkim, will continue to witness isolated thunderstorms.
Afresh western disturbance on Sunday is likely to affect weather in north-northwestern India bringing rain and snow to the hilly states but its impact on the plains is unclear.
At least 124 people were killed last week and more than 300 others injured in five states in a powerful dust storm and rain that hit north and west India.
Courtesy: Hindustan Times


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Notice to Patrons and those who use our building
As each day passes there is an escalation on reported cases of the coronavirus in our country. As we gather large groups of people together we have a responsibility to inform you of our position.
In light of the developing situation, our building will close to the public for the next two weeks. Our Programme of events here at The Playhouse during that time will now be cancelled.
This event and supplementary workshop has now been rescheduled to Friday 11th September 2020.
Our box office will be in touch with patrons who have already booked for shows to offer a refund or notify them of this alternative date.
Customers can also contact our box office on (028)71268027 or email firstname.lastname@example.com over the next two weeks.
We will continue to monitor the situation and follow advice on the way forward for the rest of our Spring programme.
We continue to ask for everyone to look after themselves and each other.
How far would you go for a cause you believed in? How far is too far?
Ireland. 2018. Abortion is still illegal, another pregnant girl dies and Maia is forced into action. Maia impregnates herself intentionally to demand a legal abortion from the Irish government to set a precedence for abortion to be legalised. Hear a story that could divide a nation, win or lose a vote, and make history.
This multi-award nominated, five star play challenges the choices we are given, uproots the lies and the legacies we inherit, and boldly protests for the power of the individual.
"Vessel is both poignant and subtle. The minimal set and direction make way for excellent writing to shine." The List
Tickets £12/£10 (includes free workshop)
'She's a…' workshop With Laura Wyatt O'Keeffe
NEW DATE- Friday11th September 2020
The 'She's a…' workshop uses poetry, pop songs and post-it notes to explore female identity and power, the labels we are given and the stories we choose to tell about ourselves.
The "MeToo" and the "Repeal the 8th" campaign were the first steps in a vital conversation about women's bodies. 'She's a…' workshop is a creative and collaborative way to further that conversation.
Booking your place:
This workshop is free to anyone who has purchased a ticket to Laura Wyatt O'Keeffe's theatre performance on Vessel on Friday 11th September at 8pm. Book your place by sending your ticket order number to email@example.com The workshop has limited spaces so please book early.
About the Artist:
Laura Wyatt O'Keeffe is a multi-award nominated performer, writer and creative facilitator.
Previous workshop participants described the workshop as "inspiring, confidence-building, collaborative and vibrant"
The Workshop:
• Each participant will bring a song or poem and newspaper article to share with the group and to work with throughout the sessions.
• The participants will use music, newspaper articles and group discussion to create poetry.
• The exercises will explore personal narrative, "roles" within that narrative and perspective.
Free to anyone who has purchased a ticket to Laura Wyatt O'Keeffe's theatre performance of Vessel.« back to What's On


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Less than £100 - Festool Power Tools
You can find all our Festool Power Tools that are less than £100 here. Feel free to browse the our selection, a review for each tool has been provided to help you make an informed decision.Sorry, no products currently available in this category. Please try another category or click back in your browser to return to the previous page.


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Tesla Model Y Production To Begin In 2020
The electric crossover will begin production in 2020
What will the Tesa Y look like? It's still a mystery to most of us. Just recently, CEO Elon Musk has revealed that the company aims to bring the new vehicle to production in 2020, adding in its conference call that doing so will spark a "manufacturing revolution". Although he didn't expand on what that revolution will look like.
The vehicle's real impact will be in the manufacturing process, where Musk says he wants to avoid the pain he's currently experiencing with Model 3 production. "I think the Model Y is going to be a manufacturing revolution," he said, adding that the Model Y will be "incredible from a manufacturing standpoint."
It had originally aimed for a 2019 release date, then pushed it back to 2020 because of plans for an entirely new production platform. Musk then scratched that idea in a bid to bring the car to market sooner.
When talking about making a new platform for Model Y, Musk previously said that Tesla will get rid of the 12-volt battery architecture. It means no more lead-acid battery and a different way to power in-car electronics. Musk says that it will reduce the overall wiring significantly and simplify the production process.
The CEO also confirmed that Tesla doesn't plan to manufacture the Model Y at its Fremont factory and that it will instead announce a new factory location "no later than in the fourth quarter", which mean that it should be confirmed by the end of the year.


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There is no denying it: The e-commerce business is booming. By 2016, the e-commerce market is expected to grow to a staggering $1.85 trillion. Increasing rates of Internet access in emerging economies, most notably in India and China, continue to fuel the growth of online commerce, leaving virtually every consumer affected.
Yet in spite of widespread e-commerce growth across all sectors, there has been one market that has been a bit slow on the uptake: fine jewelry. Experts say the reason the fine jewelry market has integrated so slowly with e-commerce is because fine jewelry purchases, such as buying an engagement ring or an anniversary necklace, are extremely emotionally charged purchases. This strong emotional aspect of the purchasing process means consumers want to be able to experience a piece of jewelry before they purchase it.
However, the U.S. jewelry market is a staggering $70 billion dollar industry and one that will be disrupted by e-commerce immensely in the coming years. As key players in the industry grow their online stores, the market will flourish and innovate like we've never seen before.
Let's take a look at the how this evolution will manifest by way of e-commerce:
- Modern-day concierge jewelry. Concierge jewelers, or personal jewelers, are smaller operations. Unlike major retail chains, these jewelers tend to operate by word of mouth and offer a much higher level of service, along with higher-end customized jewelry pieces. With the rise of e-commerce, we'll likely see the rise of modern-day concierge jewelry.
- 3D printing. As 3D printing becomes more common and costs drop, it is likely that fine jewelry companies will make use of this technology to provide customers with samples. This means a customer will be able to try out the piece in their daily life, judging size, comfort, and wear before they make a commitment. This also allows the emotion component of the purchasing process to be better integrated into the e-commerce shopping process, allowing the customer to connect with a particular piece before he or she purchases it.
- Better catering to mobile buyers. The segment of mobile buyers is big, and getting bigger. People are buying more and more on their phones, and that includes fine jewelry. Even when making a purchase in store, a staggering 82 percent of shoppers say they consult their phones before making a purchase. Jewelry retailers will increasingly cater to these mobile users with mobile apps and mobile-friendly websites.
- A more comprehensive buying experience with more sophisticated websites. As consumers turn to e-commerce to purchase fine jewelry, retailers will work to develop a more comprehensive buying experience, particularly with more sophisticated websites. The goal will be to bring the luxury of an in-store purchasing experience to an online purchasing experience. That means high-quality images, an excellent navigation scheme, and easy-to-use product configuration settings.
- As more jewelry retailers realize the opportunity in the e-commerce sector, the market will become more competitive. That means consumer expectations will rise—they won't just being look for an excellent piece of jewelry, they will also be looking for a great shopping experience. Retailers will need to step up their game to stay competitive in this changing market.
- Ultimate customization. Consumers are becoming more interested in the potential of customization. A survey conducted by Bain & Co. found that roughly one quarter of shoppers are interested in online customization options. With e-commerce, retailers can expand the number of options they offer to their customers. This will ultimately open up more options for customization, allowing consumers to customize more aspects of jewelry pieces.
Similar to the direct to consumer business model of Tesla, the fine jewelry market will soon break through to consumers by encouraging them to order some of their most expensive and significant items with the touch of a finger because they're receiving an ultra-customized product.
- On trend. Jewelry e-commerce means that stocking and supplying the trendiest jewelry will not only become more important, but will be easier for jewelers to meet demands more quickly. It will no longer take months to get the trendiest cut into their brick and mortar store, they will be able to feature that product on their website and more quickly showcase that style to the customer.
Online jewelry sales will continue to flourish steadily for the next few years and as the industry implements these innovations to meet consumer demands, that growth rate will accelerate as jewelry e-commerce reaches it's stride.
The timing of this growth will revolve around consumer preferences as they become more and more comfortable in buying emotionally charged products online, jewelry will fall right into this category.
Allurez is the premier designer and retailer of high quality fine jewelry with a brand name known to royals as well as to the rich and famous. We are committed to providing you with the largest and the finest selection of engagement rings, wedding bands, bridal jewelry, fine fashion jewelry, and certified loose diamonds. Go ahead, browse our store, and find your perfect jewel!