text:
This time as I write, I feel helpless. After having written so many millions of words in my life in the Catholic press, and after all the homilies that I have preached, at least to my satisfaction, I cannot fully describe what it was like to be in St. Peter's piazza on March 13, 2013, when Pope Francis was elected.
Electricity was in the air, and hardly because of the occasional bolt of lightning that split the cloudy, rain-swollen clouds. Emotional, high-voltage electricity flashed in the faces and thundered in the voices of thousands upon thousands who stood there, awaiting not just news, but news about a pope.
The evening unfolded this way. The first announcement of the election, given through the medium of white smoke pouring from a brass chimney atop the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, simply informed the crowd — and the world — that a new pope had been chosen. No name was spoken. No identity revealed. Only the fact of an election was disclosed. Then, confirming the fact, the basilica's great bells rang an excited, happy peal.
No name, no details, but still the reaction was instant, and it was overwhelming. Cheering and applause, smiles and even tears, spread across the piazza.
Of course, everyone yearned to know who had been elected, and by what name he would be called. The mood, nevertheless, was evident and splendid in its enthusiasm and joy. A pope had been elected!
After what seemed a long time, the doors on the balcony of the façade of St. Peter's Basilica opened. More cheers sprang forth. French Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran appeared, the senior of the cardinal deacons, the position traditionally assigned to present the new pope. "Habemus papam," he said, in the historic wording. "We have a pope." More cheers, from a crowd that still only knew that an election had occurred.
At long last, the cardinal answered everyone's question. Elected was "Georgium Marium Sanctae Romanae Ecclesiae Cardinalem Bergoglio." My cell phone rang. The four seminarians from my home diocese studying at the North American College had met me in the piazza to await the results of that day's fourth ballot. After the white smoke, they had left where they had been standing to weave their way through the crowd to a better vantage point. One of them was calling. "Monsignor," he asked, "who is it?" Thousands were asking the same question — except those waving Argentinian flags for all they were worth.
Cardinal Tauran said that the new pope's name would be "Francis." More, even more robust, cheers came. The connection with the beloved povarello of Assisi was realized and so greatly appreciated. As a sidebar, it is interesting that the poor St. Francis, 800 years after his death, is, as he has been called, "Everybody's Saint," this man of long ago who spurned earthly comfort and earthly things, loved nature, and gave his all to Christ.
(As an aside, why is St. Francis of Assisi so enduringly beloved? Even Muslims think well of him.)
The gold processional cross was brought through the door, and the crowd cheered again. Then came the Holy Father, instantly recognizable because of his white cassock. Very few knew much about him — other than those ecstatic Argentinians. Only the most observant in Vatican protocol realized that he was not wearing the papal mozetta. No one saw his black, not red, shoes. It made no difference. The pope was there!
This came through at once. Everyone saw his humility. It was evident when he invited everyone to pray for his predecessor. It was so beautifully obvious when he invited everyone to pray for him in his new role of service. At that moment, the people responded as believers, Catholic believers. The cheering stopped. Silence prevailed. Thousands of lips were motionless. Cameras were set aside. Thousands of hearts lifted in prayer. It was extraordinary.
Of course, in a way, a real way, it was about the man on the balcony, Pope Francis, the new bishop of Rome, as he presented himself.
It was something else. More deeply, it was about faith not in Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the man, not even about the man who at midday had been an Argentine archbishop but who was now the new pope. Instead, it was about the Church, and even more broadly still, it was about God, alive, genuine, wonderful, and not only accessible, but for the people in that great crowd, somehow, amid so many personal circumstances, there with them — through the Church.
The only explanation for all that appeared in that scene was faith, pure and simple.
In the Old Testament, God was present for people so often, but hidden. Isaiah trusted in his hidden God (see Is 8:17). Abraham, the great paragon of faith, never saw God as Abraham saw other mortals. The Hebrews fleeing Egypt saw pharaoh's army pursuing them, but they did not see God as they saw the soldiers. Moses, while on Sinai, saw a bush burning but not consumed, but he did not see God, although he knew well that God was with him.
All had seen the works of God, the opening of the sea, for instance, and the plagues to weaken the oppressive Egyptians. So they knew that God was with them.
With the coming of the Son of God as a man, and as the ministry of Jesus unfolded, people saw God, in the person of the Lord, for the Son of God is truly human and truly divine. They saw the miracles. They also experienced what must have been the wondrously appealing personality of Christ. It had to have been a marvelous platform for the birth and growth of faith.
Then, after the death of Jesus and the Resurrection, came the Ascension. Not surprisingly, the people who had known Jesus longed for the Lord's presence in the way they first had known it. The readings in the liturgies of the Easter season are magnificent in their ability to convey to those who hear them, or read them, the moods of the people who would have known Jesus, but who worried and wondered that the Lord has left this earth and was gone from them.
As the Church progresses to Pentecost, the readings at Mass reveal that God comes to the faithful as the Holy Spirit, with all the divine mercy, power and love that so gloriously existed in Jesus.
The Holy Spirit, it might be recalled, came to the community of believers through the channel of the apostles. It is an important point for catechetics and for ecumenical dialogue. The Spirit came on Pentecost, as revealed in Acts, through the apostles. To them, the Spirit had been promised. Because of the Spirit, Jesus comforted the apostles. They would never be orphans. The Lord would be with them.
Institutionalized Religion
With the Holy Spirit's inspiration, and in their inner security in their faith and in their vocation, the apostles, always incidentally led by Peter, went out into the highways and byways, into the marketplaces and homes, to speak as Christ spoke, to heal as Christ healed. Church history began. The event on March 13 was only a recent entry in this long history.
So, faith is ecclesial.
It is interesting how organized religion serves and enables faith, and how no substitute exists for institutionalized religion — not bureaucracy, not job descriptions, but an organized, teaching, loving body of faith-filled people, willing to depend upon, and truly to follow, the Lord Jesus.
As proof, the past several generations of Western society have seen a most distressing chain of events. The ecclesial feature of faith, and of religion, has sustained a mighty blow. No casual observer of the Western religious scene, not even the most optimistic, can ignore or diminish the stunning decline in institutionalized religion. It is breathtakingly apparent in Europe. It is in Canada. It is very much in the United States, although some data would prompt an argument that American religion is not as troubled as is religion in Europe.
It is true that the slippage among Catholics is not as severe as that among Protestants, surely mainline Protestants, but Catholic numbers are falling. As chilling, or more chilling, is the overall trend among youths. The Church is not holding onto all youths, albeit the fact that many Catholic young people are fervent and deeply connected.
This circumstance is not just a matter of religious arithmetic, something of a worldwide, or at least national, informal ecclesial census. It is not to say that the loss of, or dulling of, faith among those people whose religious habits and lifestyles are weakening somehow is unimportant.
It is to say that something worse is happening. Casting off institutionalized religion is the first step in a treacherous path toward agnosticism and worse. It is precisely what is happening before our very eyes in those cultures and societies in which institutionalized religion has come to mean less than before or has come to mean nothing.
Granted, exceptions occur. Some earnest souls abandon all attachment to institutional religion and find for themselves an inner sense of being with God.
These exceptions admitted, the much wider situation is that discarding all connection with institutional religion sets souls adrift, and the reality now to be seen in Europe and even here is that, in the end, God means little or nothing, so does God exist?
Again, this is no mathematical exercise. It is not about institutional influence in a culture, although when religion has no influence in a culture, very bad things happen. Would Germans in the 1930s and 1940s, or Eastern Europeans in the 1950s to 1980s, agree? They would, if they looked at circumstances with any objectivity.
Understandably, a series of popes has warned Catholics, and at times priests precisely, of the danger that is coming into play with this decline of religious faith.
From this context, Pope Benedict XVI urged the world's Catholics to observe 2013 as a Year of Faith specifically to focus upon, and to deal with, this phenomenon, beginning with individual persons, and then proceeding to strategies and policies of a pastoral nature.
While faith is ecclesial, it also is deeply personal. In his apostolic letter Porta Fidei, in which he summoned Catholics to a Year of Faith, Pope Benedict said that this should be the occasion for "an authentic and renewed conversion to the Lord." He asked for an individual, personal commitment to Christ so ultimate and so complete that it would be a transformation of the person. This is strong. It also is basic Christianity, and it is basic Christian theology.
Dying with Christ
To borrow St. Paul's imagery, it expresses very concretely all that happens in dying with Christ so as to live anew, and forever, in Him. It is submission of everything to the Lord, but never in the static, lifeless sense. Living with Christ, living for Christ, and being in Christ all fundamentally mean being consumed in Christ, who is God. And God is love, eternally giving, forgiving and uplifting in grace.
Benedict XVI stated that "faith grows when it is lived in an experience of love received, and when it is communicated as an experience of grace and joy."
Pope Benedict brings us to the point of witnessing to Christ. Bearing witness to others, to all people whom God loves — and God loves all — is in effect a revelation of the divine life within us through divine grace. In grace, the Holy Trinity is with us, God Who is love.
Where is joy in this equation? The recently retired pope's use of the term "joy" is interesting. As five months have passed, and as the appeal of Pope Francis has reached an extraordinary level, it must be said that a quality very inviting for people as they see him is his joy.
Make no mistake. Pope Francis can be very blunt about evil, and he has been blunt about evil in the days in which he has occupied the papacy. He has called sin what it is, evil, demonic. He has denounced certain modern practices as evil, such as when he labeled, in a phraseology others may have thought but were too timid to say aloud, the awful disaster at the Bangladesh factory as having happened in a system that is in truth a modern style of slavery.
Still, the image so exciting for so many is that of the joyfulness of Pope Francis. He knows very well, and his past indicates as much, that the world is no perfect place, to put it mildly, but he is joyful, because God lives, and in God's guidance and grace the last chapter of human history need not be death and despair, but life and confidence.
Catholics can be confident as the days of this pontificate move ahead. Pope Francis will continue to project the joy of living with Christ, of being with God, and, God assisting, many people at least will give faith the benefit of a thought. This is who he is.
He will preach. He will speak. He is persuasive and direct as a speaker. His best lesson will be taught by the signal he sends with what he does, with his outreach, with his acceptance of people.
It all comes easy to him. Something moves him. What is it? What is in faith? Do I need it? people will say. This will be Pope Francis' gift to evangelization.
As an aside, the still very significant prestige of his office, even for persons not of the Catholic faith, along with the unbelievable possibilities of modern communications, will be an advantage.
Evidence of this prestige of the papal office was the arrival in Rome of over 40 heads of sovereign states around the world. Granted, the king of Belgium and the president of Chile were there, who are practicing Catholics, but present also were the Lutheran chancellor of Germany and the Muslim crown prince of Bahrain.
The Papal Pulpit
It is good for the spread of the Gospel that this pulpit, the papacy, is in the world. It also is good that Pope Francis occupies it.
Enough of powerful people and world communications. In religious education and in preaching, it will be easy for priests to move from the pope's example to any human life, easy to call people to look at Pope Francis, and to ask, what does his life say to you?
Obliquely, actually, the reaction of the world to Pope Francis, who obviously is an international figure on a very public stage, says something to every Christian. Even the most private among us, the least seen and least influential, can be compelling witnesses, not on the basis of opportunities and chances, but because of the fervor of our belief, and the joy and security hat flow from it.
In Porta Fidei, Pope Benedict referred to modern life as a "desert." It was well put. If anything pertains to current culture, despite all the noise and color, it is its aridness and its bewilderment. What is life all about? Who cares? What difference does it make? Me, myself and I — all alone, and by my own choice.
An ancient Christian theologian said that "Our hearts, Lord, are restless until they rest in you." It is a profound testimony to the yearning for God that drives certainly faithful hearts, but that also shows itself so very often in other lives as people wander, search and reach to emptiness, or grasp the venomous serpents of sin, to find something good, perfect and enduring.
Into this desert, facing all those who search and reach their arms desperately into space, the believer comes. The Church comes.
Return to that evening on March 13. Quite possibly, some in the crowd in St. Peter's piazza when news of the election of Pope Francis was reported were just curious. The law of averages would say so. By no stretch of the imagination was every television viewer a believer. Still, the visible exuberance of the vast majority in that plaza, seen by millions of people around the world through television and its akin media, said very much not about the desert, but about having found the oasis that is the Church and about life in Christ, secured in the Church, enriched by the Church, regardless of all its unworthy members and its leaders who seem for some, and may be, less than admirable. It is a community of humans, but an institution formed by God to bypass human fault, forgive and purify.
God is Present
It was an ecclesial moment, but it was not the Parousia. Christ did not come as Gabriel sounded his trumpet. No burning bush blazed as the bush had burned on Sinai. No one knowledgeable in Catholic teaching would have said otherwise.
But, God was there. The people felt it. He was there guiding and protecting His people once more through the Church, acting in the structure Jesus created for it, under the leadership of Peter and of the present bishop of Rome, Jorge Mario, Pope Francis.
Depending upon the depth of their holiness, the believers in that crowd had found God, and the election of Pope Francis reassured them. Many people were fascinated. Many were searching. He appeals to them, because his religiosity seems to be so genuine — and so rewarding.
God grant that all who profess the name of Jesus project such authenticity. God grant that all Catholics display such an understanding of the role of the Church, and, as Pope Benedict XVI said, of the need for the Church constantly to refresh and to renew itself.
In Rome that March night, a gentle rain falling, God was present not just in the pope. He was there in the faith, the divine grace, given by God to those faces broad with smiles, in those eyes moist with tears of happiness, in those voices raised in cheers. God lives. They knew it. Blessed be God. TP
Msgr. Campion, a priest of the Nashville diocese, is editor of The Priest magazine and Associate Publisher of Our Sunday Visitor.
Copyright © 1996-2019 Our Sunday Visitor, Inc.


text:
Sign in
Partner Network
Las Vegas, Nevada
July 14-18, 2019
Relive the excitement of the Microsoft Inspire 2018 Corenotes and sessions
See the latest news from Microsoft's biggest partner event.
Guest Blogger Keep maximizing your MS Inspire experience.
Guest Blogger Watch top Microsoft Inspire sessions on demand.
MPN Team Watch featured Corenotes, sessions, and more.
Watch top moments from the last full day of Microsoft Inspire.
Get the most out of Microsoft Inspire
Whether planning meetings, building out your personal calendar, finding speakers or viewing sessions you missed on-demand, MyInspire makes navigating the conference easy.
Expand your brand, grow your network, and generate new leads by becoming a Microsoft Inspire Sponsor or Exhibitor.
Join the Microsoft Inspire discussion on the Microsoft Partner Community to discuss event highlights and network with Microsoft partners and personnel.
Join us at Microsoft Inspire from July 14-18, 2019.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Business unit reported loss of $2B in 2012
Gerard DeMuro's nearly decade long run leading General Dynamics Corp.'s information systems and technology group will come to an end on Feb. 28.
The company announced DeMuro's retirement as executive vice president of the group. General Dynamics Chairman and CEO Phebe Novakovic will oversee the business until a successor is named.
A company spokesman declined to comment on the process for picking a new leader for the group, or whether any insiders were in the running.
DeMuro joined General Dynamics in 1999, when the company acquired GTE Government Systems. He was named president of General Dynamics Communications Systems at that time. He became president of C4 Systems in 2002, when that group was formed. In 2003, he was appointed executive vice president of information systems and technology.
The group had rough 2012 as it lost $1.2 billion in revenue for the year, falling to $10 billion from $11.2 billion in 2011. Operating earnings took an even bigger hit. DeMuro's group reported a loss of $1.4 billion in 2012, compared to a profit of $1.2 billion in 2011.
The bulk of that loss was a down of $2 billion in value related to acquisitions made by the group. According to the investment bank Arson Capital Partners, the group has made 38 acquisitions since 1997, worth $8.1 billion.
During a call with analysts last month, Novakovic said the acquisitions process was "somewhat broken, and I will not venture back into that market until we have reestablished the discipline in this process."
DeMuro's retirement was announced 20 days after Novakovic made those comments. The company said he was leaving to pursue new professional opportunities.
"Jerry DeMuro has made significant contributions to General Dynamics over the past 14 years that have enhanced shareholder value and deserve our recognition. We wish him continued success in his future pursuits," Novakovic said in a statement.
With his departure, all of the information systems businesses at Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and General Dynamics will be under new leadership.
Linda Gooden at Lockheed Martin is retiring effective April 1, and Linda Mills at Northrop Grumman is now corporate vice president of operations for the company.
About the Author
Nick Wakeman is the editor-in-chief of Washington Technology. Follow him on Twitter: @nick_wakeman.
Printable Format
E-Mail this page
Advanced Search
In an exclusive for WT Insider members, we are collecting all of the contract awards we cover into a database that you can sort by contractor, agency, value and other parameters. You can also download it into a spreadsheet. Our databases track awards back to 2013.
Read More
In our latest WT Insider Report, we pull together our best advice, insights and reporting on the trends and issues that will shape the market in 2016 and beyond.
Read More
Sign up for our newsletter.
I agree to this site's Privacy Policy.


text:
Oh, no reason in particular ... just a bit of a Sunday jig.
We didn't have to go far.
We found a mystery pile of shoes dumped right on our parking bay.
By an absolute freak chance, they were the right sizes for The Stylist and I, so we picked out a few pairs we liked and left the rest for someone else to poke through.
Maybe a vendor dropped them in the early morning darkness?
Buyer regret?
Who knows, who cares?
They were dumped so we grabbed them.
Man I just love free stuff!!
I swear I've been looking for a pair of 1940s-style booties for winter - these are black, suede, free and they fit - bingo!
Sarah Misfit has been spending some well-deserved down time on The Whore, which reminds me how much I've been neglecting my couch.
I'm rectifying the situation.


text:
D3Publisher of America, Inc. (D3PA), a publisher and developer of interactive entertainment software, will bring Cartoon Network's next generation series Ben 10: Alien Force to videogame systems with Ben 10: Alien Force The Game on the Wii home videogame system, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, Nintendo DS system and PSP (PlayStation Portable) system. The successful inaugural game for the brand, Ben 10: Protector of Earth, launched in October 2007 and has sold more than one million units worldwide. Based on the next generation television series launched on Cartoon Network last month, Ben 10: Alien Force The Game begins five years after Ben put away the DNA-scrambling Omnitrix, but now Grandpa Max has gone missing and the planet Earth is in grave danger. Gamers must help Ben take the Omnitrix out of retirement and lead eight different playable characters-including cousin Gwen, enemy-turned-ally Kevin Levin and five of Ben's brand new alien forms-to utilize their all-new super powers and defeat the intergalactic invaders! Ben 10: Alien Force -- The Game is slated to ship to retail outlets across North America in fall 2008.
"Ben 10: Alien Force The Game is the only console videogame that allows players to take command of the Alien Force team to authentically control and experience their brand-new superpowers," said Alison Quirion, vice president of marketing, D3PA. "Based on fans' warm reception of Ben's newest adventures and the impressive million-plus unit sales of the first Ben 10 videogame, we're confident that our latest collaboration with Cartoon Network on Ben 10: Alien Force The Game will prove even more successful."
"Ben 10: Alien Force set records as the most-watched original series premiere in Cartoon Network's history, winning its timeslot when it debuted, and each week the series continues to grow as destination viewing for kids," said Christina Miller, vice president of consumer products for Cartoon Network Enterprises. "The release of Ben 10: Alien Force The Game this fall will build upon the success of the first videogame by expanding fans' experience with the brand and giving them a new battle to win with Ben."
In Ben 10: Alien Force The Game, players work to find Grandpa Max and stop a diabolical Highbreed alien plot as they battle more than 20 types of enemies, including Highbreed invaders and DNAliens. Gamers take control of Ben and his new alien forms Swampfire, Jet Ray, Humungousaur, Spidermonkey and Big Chill to employ distinctly different and complex powers to manipulate fire, swim underwater, grow more than 60 feet tall, stick to walls, fly at mach speed, plus lots more! Gamers will also harness cousin Gwen's new talent to create an energy shield and use it to protect and attack, as well as Kevin Levin's ability to absorb materials like concrete, wood and metal to create an impenetrable shell on his body. Ben 10: Alien Force The Game is a fast-paced, 3D side-scrolling action adventure that offers eight playable characters, an unlimited combo system and puzzles and challenges that will engage players of all levels for hours at a time. The Nintendo DS version will offer alternate playable alien forms including Goop and Echo Echo, giving players additional unique powers to command and explore.
Ben 10: Alien Force The Game for Nintendo DS is under development by 1st Playable Productions, LLC. All other versions are under development by Monkey Bar Games. The game is currently rated "RP" ("Rating Pending") by the ESRB.
About Cartoon Network
Cartoon Network (CartoonNetwork.com), currently seen in nearly 91 million U.S. homes and 160 countries around the world, is Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.'s ad-supported cable service offering the best in original, acquired and classic animated entertainment for kids and families. Overnight from 11 p.m. - 6 a.m. (ET, PT), Cartoon Network shares its channel space with Adult Swim, a late-night destination showcasing original and acquired animation for young adults 18-34. Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, creates and programs branded news, entertainment, animation and young adult media environments on television and other platforms for consumers around the world.
About D3Publisher of America, Inc.
D3Publisher of America, Inc. is a subsidiary of D3, Inc. with headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. D3Publisher of America's strategic focus is on licensed and original titles from leading third-party developers that appeal to mass-market consumers or gaming enthusiasts. Based in Los Angeles, D3Publisher of America distributes and publishes software for personal computers, major console platforms and handheld systems including Wii, Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo DS Game Boy Advance, PlayStation game console, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system, PSP (PlayStation Portable) system, the Xbox video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. For additional information on D3Publisher of America and its products, visit the website at https://www.d3publisher.us.


text:
Current Law Students / Re: dream job + market; which to sacrifice?« on: August 18, 2008, 12:51:26 PM »
working for nothing and almost went bankrupt.....but he is very happy
I had a longer response, but seriously, this is just patronizing advice. "Patience and determination?" Really? "The key is to have no regrets?" How old are you? The question is specifically about industry vs. market jumps.
I don't think I've ever given in to online nastiness before, but this is just surreal.


text:
2011 Nissan QuestChange year or vehicle
Passenger Van
7 Seats
Key specs of the base trim
—Compare 4 trims
The Good
- Interior quality
- Ease of seat folding
- Four trim levels to choose from
The Bad
- Second-row bench not offered
- All-wheel drive not offered
What to Know
All-new design
All rear seats fold flat
3.5-liter V-6 engine
Cloth or leather upholstery
Low step-in height
We're looking for the best deals on a Nissan near you…
Are you looking for more listings?
Change location
Please enter a valid 5-digit ZIP code.
Sign up for listing notifications
Please enter your complete email address.
See all local inventory
Our Take
from the Cars.com expert editorial team
Cars.com's Dave Thomas takes a look at the 2011 Nissan Quest. It competes with the Honda Odyssey and Dodge Grand Caravan.
Nissan has returned to the minivan market with a completely redesigned Quest that has just gone on sale. It's a terrific vehicle, but the Quest isn't as roomy as the rest of the minivan class, and its shape hasn't adopted the more popular style of a crossover.
It wears its odd, boxy minivan dressings with pride. The roof is quite tall, and there's lots of glass to see out. There's a roomy third row and an impressive cargo well behind it, but the Quest's oddness is that, despite those minivan looks, overall it doesn't offer as much space as the rest of the class. Buyers not looking for a maximum amount of room usually opt for a crossover and skip the minivan stigma altogether.
Are there buyers on the lookout for the Quest's unique combo? I'm not sure, but I happen to like odd designs, capable engines, and bright, luxurious interiors, and the Quest has all those things.
Most minivans are graded on what's inside, but you can't talk about this new Quest without tackling its striking exterior design.
Borrowed from a Japanese model, the U.S. Quest, not surprisingly, looks very Japanese. The front is snub-nosed, with bold use of chrome. Around back, the windows appear to wrap around the entire rear three-quarters of the car. The black glass around the rear pillars is simply cosmetic, though; there are still pillars there. But the effect is stylish.
Interior & Cargo
Stepping inside my SL test model — the se...
Nissan has returned to the minivan market with a completely redesigned Quest that has just gone on sale. It's a terrific vehicle, but the Quest isn't as roomy as the rest of the minivan class, and its shape hasn't adopted the more popular style of a crossover.
It wears its odd, boxy minivan dressings with pride. The roof is quite tall, and there's lots of glass to see out. There's a roomy third row and an impressive cargo well behind it, but the Quest's oddness is that, despite those minivan looks, overall it doesn't offer as much space as the rest of the class. Buyers not looking for a maximum amount of room usually opt for a crossover and skip the minivan stigma altogether.
Are there buyers on the lookout for the Quest's unique combo? I'm not sure, but I happen to like odd designs, capable engines, and bright, luxurious interiors, and the Quest has all those things.
Most minivans are graded on what's inside, but you can't talk about this new Quest without tackling its striking exterior design.
Borrowed from a Japanese model, the U.S. Quest, not surprisingly, looks very Japanese. The front is snub-nosed, with bold use of chrome. Around back, the windows appear to wrap around the entire rear three-quarters of the car. The black glass around the rear pillars is simply cosmetic, though; there are still pillars there. But the effect is stylish.
Interior & Cargo
Stepping inside my SL test model — the second-highest trim level — I thought I had opened the door to a car from Nissan's luxury Infiniti division.
The leather seats look expensive and are comfortable in all three rows. The dashboard is offset with deep-brown wood accents that also exude luxury. The large leather steering wheel feels like ones I've tested in luxury sedans. Compared with the rest of the minivan landscape, the Quest beats the previous front-runner — Honda's EX-L Odyssey — by a nose in the luxo-van race.
While the dash is good-looking, there's one huge ergonomic fail that cannot be glossed over: The shifter is placed directly in the dash — like almost all minivans these days — but is too tall. I routinely found myself knocking into it while reaching for radio or climate controls. It simply doesn't need to be this tall; most minivan shifters are short and more knoblike. Otherwise, I found the layout of buttons and controls fairly straightforward and not as dizzying as Honda's.
As a father of two very young children, I thought the digs were too nice for extended use. I might opt for the cloth-seated SV trim and save $4,000. For the week I had it, though, I learned to appreciate some of its family-friendly aspects.
For kids this age — 18 months and 3 years — the second-row captain's chairs fit their respective car seats easily. They also slide forward and backward, so Mommy and Daddy don't have to leave feet within kicking range.
From there, the kids can watch the optional rear DVD player on a screen that flips down from the ceiling. Unlike most ceiling-mounted DVD players I've tested, this one barely obstructs the driver's view out the rear window.
The Quest has a rather small, removable console that sits between the second-row seats. It can hold the DVD player's remote and headsets, and also features two cupholders — out of 16 total in the Quest — with room for nothing else. It sits low to the floor of the van, as does the driver's fixed center console, so young children — even in boosters — may have trouble reaching it.
With the console in place, passengers need to fold one of the captain's chairs forward to get into the third row. This is a traditional design for crossovers and minivans with second-row bench seats, but if you have child-safety seats installed, it's a near-impossible task.
That said, I really wish there were a second-row bench seat option, let alone an expandable bench seat like the Honda Odyssey has.
I also liked the power sliding doors, which come standard on SV trims and higher. Most minivans have this option these days, including being able to open them with a remote, but the Quest has a passive entry system, meaning you can open all the doors without removing the key fob from your pocket. For the rear doors, press a button on the doors and they start sliding back. Other minivans require a full tug on a rather large handle to start this action. Not only is this nice for kids, it's also great for parents whose hands are too full to reach their keys.
With all three rows of seats up and in place, you can have either a flat cargo area behind the third row, or you can remove the cover to create a deeper well, like in a traditional minivan. When covered, the well itself comes in at 11.4 cubic feet. The storage area above the covered well is an additional 25.7 cubic feet. That allows for as much as 37.1 cubic feet of cargo area behind the third row.
That puts to shame the Ford Flex's 20 cubic feet of room, which has just the well when the third row is in place. The Quest also beats the third-row-up space of GM crossovers like the Chevy Traverse and GMC Acadia, which have about 24 cubic feet in that configuration.
The optional powered third row folds flat at the touch of buttons. Powered or not, both rows of seats fold flat to create a flat-load floor, again like a crossover. Minivans usually have either second-row seats that can fold into the floor — as do Chrysler's Stow 'n Go seats — or can be removed completely, while the third row generally tumbles backward to stow in the rear well.
The Quest has less total cargo room — 108.4 cubic feet — than the rest of the minivan class (the Odyssey has 148.5 cubic feet, the Sienna 150 and the Dodge Grand Caravan 144.3), but that's mostly due to height given up to the fold-flat seating layout. Its width and depth are still voluminous. I found myself keeping the third row down, and with the flat floor that made for 63.6 cubic feet of space. Strollers and groceries were easily swallowed up in that. If you find yourself deciding between this and a Ford Flex, with its paltry 43.2 cubic feet behind the second row, there's no comparison.
Besides looks and layout, the other reason to choose a crossover over a minivan is that it doesn't drive like a van. The Quest can't escape the fact that it unquestionably handles like a minivan — a very capable minivan, but a minivan nonetheless.
I drove the Quest on a snowy road trip from Detroit to Chicago, and the Nissan stayed solidly planted on the road despite arduous conditions, including built-up snow. Its ride wasn't quite as firm as an Odyssey's, nor quite as composed as that of the redesigned Dodge Grand Caravan. Other Cars.com editors felt the same way.
The 3.5-liter V-6 and continuously variable automatic transmission did impress me and those same editors. With 260 horsepower, it slates above the Odyssey's 248 and below the Grand Caravan's 283. However, the Honda and Nissan feel a bit faster than the Dodge, urging you to push both a bit more. That doesn't often happen when toting precious cargo, but passing on the highway was effortless. That power is welcome with a full load of kids and gear on board.
As far as minivans go, you're not going to be outgunned by anything else on the road.
At an EPA-estimated 19/24 mpg city/highway, the Quest is above average in terms of fuel efficiency, though it's outdone by the Odyssey's 18/27 mpg. But even the four-cylinder version of the Sienna gets the same 19/24 mpg. A V-6 Dodge Grand Caravan gets 17/25 mpg, and V-6 crossovers get worse mileage: The Flex, Traverse and Mazda CX-9 all get 17/24 mpg with front-wheel drive.
Handling is tough to rate in a vehicle of this type. You don't expect it to take corners like a racecar, and the Quest certainly doesn't. I doubt any parents would be able to discern a handling advantage between the Quest, Odyssey or Dodge Grand Caravan, which all feature fairly responsive steering. I find the Sienna's steering to be a bit too loose.
Likewise, braking was on par with the rest. Only the Odyssey offers especially grippy brakes.
If you want an awesome driving experience in a vehicle near this size, there's only one option: the Ford Flex with EcoBoost. That's a pricey proposition, starting at $36,845, but it does get you all-wheel drive. The only minivan that offers that feature is the Sienna, and that's as an option on its LE and higher trim levels, starting at $31,430.
Features & Trim Levels
There are four trim levels of the new Nissan Quest, all with the same V-6 engine and automatic transmission. The base model is called the 3.5 S. It costs $27,750 equipped with second-row power windows, 16-inch steel wheels, passive keyless entry and push-button start, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, and a four-speaker stereo with a six-disc CD changer.
Next up is the SV trim for $30,900, which adds 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, one-touch power sliding doors, a backup camera, Bluetooth, three-zone climate control, a conversation mirror, a six-speaker sound system with a 4.3-inch color display, a USB input, and steering-wheel audio controls.
My test car was an SL, which starts at $34,350. Its biggest upgrade is the rich leather seating, but it also adds 18-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, automatic headlights, a HomeLink garage door opener, an eight-way power driver's seat and heated front seats.
Top-of-the-line LE models start at $41,350 and add xenon headlights, a blind spot warning system, a navigation system with an 8-inch screen, advanced climate control with an air-cleaning feature, second-row manual sunshades, a 120-volt outlet, a four-way power front passenger seat, memory for the driver's seat, power-folding third-row seats, a 13-speaker Bose stereo and a rear DVD entertainment system.
Unfortunately, that $2,100 rear DVD system is available as an option only on the SL model. Otherwise, the SV could be a real steal for parents. Same goes for the $1,300 Bose stereo system. A dual panoramic moonroof is a $1,350 option on the SL and LE. My test car had the stereo, moonroof and DVD, and its final sticker was $39,910. That's a nice combination of features; often when you get a car equipped with a moonroof you can't get the in-ceiling DVD option, too.
That near-$40,000 price tag might look like a tough number to swallow, but delete the moonroof and it's on par with a similarly equipped Odyssey or Sienna.
You can see how the latest, comparably equipped minivans rank in terms of affordability here.
The Nissan Quest has not yet been crash-tested by either the federal government or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Quest in the Market
The last Nissan Quest was an untraditional minivan in terms of styling and interior features. At the time, no one had a dash-mounted shifter in a minivan. Now it's common practice.
This Quest doesn't break as much new ground, but it offers a stylish, at times luxurious alternative to the rest of the market. It does limit itself a bit by not offering a second-row bench option, but the execution is so good I can see it being a sleeper in the class.
On its own merits, the Quest doesn't fall far behind any minivan on sale today. To top the Honda Odyssey in my book, I'd have to see a second-row bench option. If you can count your family members on one hand, though, the Quest should be on your minivan shopping list.
|Send David an email
Consumer Reviews
What drivers are saying
Read reviews that mention:
Great van
My wife like the van and she wanted so we talked to the we walking to see salesman randy was very helpful and the owner very helpful great place to buy automotive needs Read full review
Great van
Love the van has all the creature comforts nice styling and great ride. Well built and comfortable seating for seven, low miles and navigation built in Read full review
Recalls and crash tests
The 2011 Nissan Quest currently has 1 recall
Crash and Rollover Test RatingsThe 2011 Nissan Quest has not been tested.
New car and certified pre-owned programs by Nissan
New Car Program Benefits
36 months / 36,000 miles
60 months / 60,000 miles
Certified Pre-Owned Program Benefits
Maximum Age/Mileage
6 years/less than 80,000 miles
Basic Warranty Terms
84 months/100,000 miles from original new-car in-service date
84 months/100,000 miles (includes LEAF electric vehicle system and powertrain)
Dealer Certification Required
167-point inspection
Roadside Assistance


text:
Killer Karetsu wrote:
As you can see 4 are ready now, and they took about 2 hours.
Killer Karetsu wrote:Thank you zirrian for your advice, and I CAN do better, but they look cool from afar and ok from close so I'm pretty satisfied with them. Not working for them more I have. But in the future I might try to paint all to a high standard, but not now. Thanks anyway,
I'm going to spend more time on the heroes of course.
For me drybrushing is fun and easy, and I think the pictures give no glory tgo the figs, or maybe Im just defending them..
About the yellow, hmm...I have given two coats so it looks good enough for me.
Short: I'm happy with them now, altough now I do want to get something under the light blue. Quantity over quality...not very high-elfish?
But zirrian, if I do not change them for now, do they still look good enough??
Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 0 guests


text:
If Stephen Harper really wanted to be as "Mr. Hope" or a Canadian Obama imitation, perhaps he should have actually looked at Obama's most famous speeches. He might then have realized that Obama's best speeches resonated because they were unifying, not divisive, and were considered post-partisan, rather than partisan speeches.
If Stephen Harper really wants to reach out to supporters of other parties, perhaps he could just actually act like a Prime Minister for once and stand above the fray, rather than give yet another completely partisan speech, especially when his partisan arguments are so incredibly flimsy (as David Akin so easily points out - h/t to Jeff).
Mr. Harper, Canadians didn't give you a blank cheque in the last election, they gave you a minority. In case you don't yet understand our system that means Canadians wanted you to work with other parties to get things done.
Canadians want Parliamentarians to work together, but instead confrontation is what Harper has on his mind. He's the only one talking about causing an election over his unwillingness to have even a shred of accountability for $3 billion in new spending.
Mr. Harper likes to talk about other parties "not heeding the lessons of the last election," well look in the mirror Mr. Harper or break out a calculator because a clear majority of Canadians voted against you and the last thing they want is to give you unfettered spending power with no strings attached. And you talk about Canada coming out of this recession stronger than before but your budget did nothing to achieve that goal.
The irony is that if Stephen Harper actually acted like a Prime Minister and reached out his hand to the members of the opposition and ran his government in a more collaborative fashion, he'd actually be more popular with Canadians (I fail to see how his flimsy partisan attacks win over Liberal voters to his side), but he just can't help himself. The fact that he personally wrote today's speech really says it all.
It's just so clear now beyond a shadow of a doubt that Stephen Harper doesn't get it.
He didn't get that a recession was coming, so instead encouraged everyone to buy stocks just before they monumentally crashed.
He didn't realize he had a minority, so instead his first order of business after the election was to try to destroy the opposition while doing nothing about the economy and then delaying a budget by two months he now says must be passed immediately.
And now he doesn't realize that Canadians want more than anything to see politicians put partisan squabbles aside to address the economic crisis, so instead his "defining speech" about the recession is more about scoring partisan points than actually helping Canadians.
Stephen Harper is a Conservative partisan first and a Prime Minister second and in this economic climate that combination is toxic (especially when compared with the President across the border) and it's only a matter of time before it ends his career one way or another.
Recommend this Post


text:
Don't you just love when a favorite item or brand of yours is actually gluten free, and provides the information on their website! I know I do. I get abnormally excited over something that most would consider small, but to me its all about the small things in life. I've always been a fan of Frito-Lay's products however, I never realized how many of them are gluten-free! Check out their recently updated list here. I think you will be presently surprised. This was brought to my attention by the National Foundation For Celiac Awareness (NFCA) when they asked if I would like to be a recipe tester for some of the new products.
I was assigned the Frito Waffles with Mascarpone and Warm Strawberry Compote. I had the option of changing up the recipe if I so desired to, however I rather liked it just as it was. The waffles were more on the savory side, but topped with the Mascarpone and Strawberry Compote made them a sweet-savory treat. I made these for my neighbor and myself whose respective other halves are away for the summer and she was recently told from her doctor that she needs to avoid gluten and wheat. They not only would be great for dinner but they made a mighty delicious dinner 🙂
In addition to my recipe and post check out the NFCA's page for additional recipes and bloggers: http://www.celiaccentral.org/frito-lay/recipes/
Keep reading to learn how you can win your own Frito-Lay products!!
Frito Waffles with Mascarpone and Warm Strawberry Compote
175 grams (about 1 1/4 cups millet flour)
50 grams (3/4 cup) crushed Fritos® Original corn chips
1 tablespoon golden flaxmeal
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 cup milk
3 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup melted butter
1/4 cup honey
3 large egg whites
Strawberry Compote
1 pound strawberries, hulled and quartered
1/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla
Mascarpone cheese
Combine flour, corn chips, flaxmeal, baking powder, milk, egg yolks, vanilla, butter and honey
in a blender container. Blend until smooth. Beat egg whites in a medium bowl until they form
soft peaks. Fold flour mixture into beaten egg whites until incorporated, being careful not to
deflate egg whites.
Pour about 1/2 cup of batter onto greased, heated griddle and cook until waffle is done,
according to manufacturer's instructions. Repeat with remaining batter.
Combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch and vanilla in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium
heat until juicy and thickened, stirring often.
Serve waffles with mascarpone cheese and warm strawberries.
Yield: about 9 waffles.
To make these a little sweeter – maybe add a tablespoon of sugar
This recipe was pretty easy and quick to make. Again this is great for breakfast or dinner. Who doesn't love breakfast for dinner? I know I do!
I ended up eight large waffles
My waffle maker is old (very old) so they came out a bit darker than I had hoped.
The strawberries and Mascarpone are fantastic on this – don't add anything to the cheese, just add a dollop on top of the waffles and then top with the strawberry compote.
Head on over here to enter for your chance to win a prize package from Frito-Lay!


text:
My SciELO
Services on Demand
- Cited by SciELO
- Access statistics
Innovar : Revista de Ciencias Administrativas y Sociales
Print version ISSN 0121-5051
GARCIA RIVERA, Blanca Rosa and RIVAS TOVAR, Luis Arturo. A turnover perception model of the general working population in the Mexican cross-border assembly (maquiladora) industry. Innovar [online]. 2008, vol.1Selected edition, pp. 0-0. ISSN 0121-5051.
In this study, we analyze the correlation between employee turnover vs. employee profile and employee perceptions to motivation, leadership, opportunities, remuneration, adaptability and equity. The purpose of this study was to determine if the variables have a significant influence in the employee?s intention to leave the company. A 57-question questionnaire with Likert-type scale was used for collecting data in this study which was applied in 16 assembly companies in Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico. Data were collected to a total of 857 employees of 16 different companies in Ensenada. The research revealed a significant influence between the variables of job perception and leadership style with employee turnover. The main findings in this research reveal that turnover as perceived by the employees is directly related to fairness (equity) in the application of leadership, adaptability and relations. Even thought employee profile had a negative correlation, age and gender have a significant influence in turnover. Further subjects for future research exist as well.
Keywords : job turnover; the city of Ensenada; Mexico; employee turnover model; cross-border assembly industry; turnover.


text:
The Workspace Under the Stairs: 5 Offices Tucked in Tight Spaces
The space under the stairs in two-story homes gets a bad rap for being dark, cramped, and dirty. But with a little ingenuity and the right inspiration, those tight quarters make for a perfect home office area.
If all that's needed from an office at home is a little space to spread out, pay bills, and answer emails, any of these under the stairway offices below can tackle the task. Add extras like a cork wall, bookshelves, a statement chair, and some eye catching artwork to totally elevate your under-the-stairs style.
- Floating Shelf Workstation, HDTV
- Shannon's Toronto Under-Stair Media Room, 8FOOTSIX via Houzz
- White Stair Workspace, Huss & Hem via 9 Clever Uses for the Space Under the Stairs
- Earls Court Open Plan Space, Kia Designs
- Steve and Nancy's Vintage Sunset Inspired Home, Apartment Therapy House Tour
(Images: As linked above)
Apartment Therapy supports our readers with carefully chosen product recommendations to improve life at home. You support us through our independently chosen links, many of which earn us a commission.


text:
Show MoreLess
Now Viewing:
Product Highlights
This item is noncancelable and nonreturnable.
The PFD-32x8-RGB Pathfinder RGBHV Matrix Switcher from FSR is designed to offer 32 inputs and 8 outputs of matrix switching capability for RGBHV signals. It is well suited for use in video & control rooms, educational institutions, government offices, and houses of worship, among many other possible settings and applications.
The unit offers high bandwidth capacity to accommodate signals without degradation of clarity or color fidelity. It features split-mode switching to allow each channel to be switched independently. The chassis has been optimized to maximize functionality while minimizing its footprint and the space it occupies in your rack or work area. The unit can be controlled via a set of ASCII commands using its RS-232 or IP connectivity.
|32x8 RGBHV
|Female BNC
|600MHz at -3dB
|Gain Flatness
|+/- 1.0dB to 300MHz
|75 Ohms
|0.7V nominal, 2V maximum p-p
|Input Level
|0.5V to 5Vp-p 4V nominal
|Output Level
|TTL 2.4V into 75-Ohm load
|Dimensions (HxWxD)
|Not specified by manufacturer
|Not specified by manufacturer


text:
Nov. 14, 2008
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. - Junior outside hitter Alex May added two more awards to her resume following the announcement of the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) and New England Women's Volleyball Association (NEWVA) All-Region Teams.
The Des Moines, Iowa native was tabbed to the AVCA All-New England Team, marking her second selection as she was named the New England Rookie of the Year in 2006. In addition, she picked up All-America Honorable Mention plaudits the same season. May also received her third accolade from NEWVA, being voted to the All-New England First Team. Previously, she was chosen as the NEWVA Rookie of the Year and an All-New England Second-Team honoree.
May is currently in contention for CoSIDA/ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America plaudits after earning All-District First-Team honors. The national recipients will be announced on Monday, Nov. 24.


text:
Recently I have received a few concerned emails regarding the ratio of mens photos compared to women's. I can assure it this is not a systematic shift in approach but simple the fact that I have just come out of a month of women's collections and a lack to men to shoot in China.
I think one of the strength of this blog is it is very human and not corporately driven. It would be easy for me to take more photos just to even things out but I will never do that.
By the same token, (my dads favorite phrase) Jan and June are usually mens heavy because of Pitti Uomo and the mens collections.
thanks for you understanding.


text:
the blog of e. a sketchbook. a daybook. the way we live now.
{I adore the theater and I am a painter. I think the two are made for a marriage of love. I will give all my soul to prove this once more. Marc Chagall}
"What you are doing is using a Brakhage film in the creation of some new entity, and you should give a name to that new entity (or call it 'Untitled')"
this is absolutely perfect for little middle!


text:
Here is my last After Effects CS4 (compatible with AE CS4, Cs5 & CS 5.5) template. Full HD (1920×1080) resolution, 1 minute 25 seconds duration with 15 media (pictures or videos) placeholders (1920×1080). SFx included.
No third-party plug-in needed. Very easy and fast customization process. THREE included templates and one PDF Help file
The preview file uses the excellent music track A BRIGHT AND HOPEFUL FUTURE created by the very talented ELITE author TIM MC MORRIS.
This music IS NOT included in this VH item, but you can buy it on Audiojungle:
If you like my work please rate it and if you have any trouble customizing the template drop me an email through my profile page
You don't know how to use After Effects? You have special requests? ... I can make the customization process for you…. Simply drop me a message from my videohive profile page (http://videohive.net/user/lasgole) with all the needed informations or requests.


text:
Portrait of Jacob Cornelisz van Oostsanen, Jacob Cornelisz van Oostsanen (workshop of), c. 1533
Long accepted as the earliest known north Netherlandish self-portrait, this is probably a copy after a lost work. Such portraits illustrate the increasing status of artists. Jacob, whose traditional nickname means 'son of Cornelis from Oostsanen', looks directly at us. Behind him is a paper with the date 1533 and his monogram, I W (inverted) v A ('J[acob] W[ar] v[an] A[msterdam]').


text:
MARIO SUAREZ launches himself into the making of the ultimate film about Tango. Using poignant, beautifully stirring tango music as a source of inspiration, Mario searches to find a narrative thread which will hold it all together.
Images of his own life (his successful career, his mid-life crisis, his ex-wife) converge in Mario's movie, revolving around riveting dance numbers of requited and unrequited love. While out scouting for talent at a Milonga bar, Mario is introduced to Angelo Larroca, a gangster and financier of Mario's film.
Angelo asks Mario to audition his mistress, Elena, a gifted and stunning young dancer. Mario and Elena become entangled in a passionate and dangerous love affair. Elena's dancing improves constantly, the choreography reaching greater heights of beauty and precision, and a wave of powerful creativity sweeps through the set.
|Carlos Saura


text:
Six members of Bits N Bridles 4-H Club in Belding will be representing Ionia County at the MSU State 4-H Show on Aug. 9-12.
Six members of Bits N Bridles 4-H Club in Belding will be representing Ionia County at the MSU State 4-H Show on Aug. 9-12.
The show takes place at the Michigan State University Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education in East Lansing. This three-day event includes about 82 counties (including the Upper Peninsula), more than 275 classes, and nearly 600 participants competing on a statewide basis.
State 4-H show delegates, including local Bits N Bridles 4-H Club members Bailey Strouse, Lydia Humphreys, Jessica Demorest, Jessica Tuttle, Dana Smith and Kaylee O'Connor, were selected based on show performance with their project at a designated county show, club participation, participation in non-competitive aspects of their 4-H project area (examples: Community service projects, mentoring programs), regional and state level opportunities and record keeping ability and performance.
Being selected to attend this show brings responsibilities as well as privileges. Some of the objectives of the state 4-H horse show are to develop leadership, initiative, self-reliance, sportsmanship and other traits of character.
Delegates experience the pride and responsibility of learning the care, feeding, management and health of a horse. Learning skills in horsemanship, show ring etiquette and understanding of the training / handling of horses is an important objective of the state 4-H horse show, in addition to allowing exhibitors to meet other 4-H members, leaders and families from around the state.
The State 4-H Horse Show assists members in evaluating their progress rather than being the major emphasis of their project.
For further information about this event and others, visit www.ans.msu.edu/ans/youth_extension_programs


text:
Latur to Bhubaneshwar Jet Konnect Flights
Jet Konnect Latur to Bhubaneshwar Cheap Flights Fare
Lowest fares and dates are mentioned below - Lowest fare starting @ - Get 30% CashBack - Use Code - "GOFLY"
|Latur Bhubaneshwar Cheap Flights
|Fare INR
|Date of journey
|Airlines Name
|Schedule Time
|Hurry up!
|Todays Lowest Fare
|Find Out!
|Cheapest Fare within 30 days
|Find Out!
|Cheapest Fare within 90 Days
|Find Out!
|Lowest Fare to Travel
|Find Out!
* Fares shown are indicative and subject to change until ticketed for All Airline. Prices are guaranteed only at the time of purchase. Fares shown in this table are not for Jet Konnect. To check only Jet Konnect fares goto Jet Konnect Page and know More.
Check Latur to Bhubaneshwar flight schedules, flight status, and flight number for Jet Konnect. MakeMyTrip India offers cheapest Air Travel Tickets between Latur and Bhubaneshwar with Jet Konnect.
Latur (LTU) to Bhubaneshwar (BBI) Jet Konnect (JK) Tickets, Flight Status, Schedule, Reservation Online: MakeMyTrip India.
Customer Reviews
About Bhubaneshwar
About the city:
Popularly known as ÔÇ£Temple City of IndiaÔÇØ, Bhubaneshwar is a major pilgrimage destination of India. Being an important seat of Lord Shiva or Tribhubaneswar, the city holds immense pride in its scores of temples that dot its landscapes. A beautiful blend of old and new, the infrastructure of Bhubaneshwar truly complement its historic background. The city of Bhubaneshwar caters to all kind of tourists, from all parts of the world, thereby, making it a perfect travel destination.
One of the most striking features of this ÔÇ£Temple CityÔÇØ is its plentiful shrines that mark its amazing skyline. At one point of time, Bhubaneshwar had almost 7000 shrines, is now just left with 500. The mesmerizing architecture of Bhubaneshwar has a rich history to narrate. Once the capital to ancient Kalinga, today Bhubaneshwar is a well-planned city and merged suavely with its rich past and modern lifestyle.
The glory and cultural charm of this pilgrimage destination attracts tourists from all over the world. With so much increase in tourist every year, the best way to reach Bhubaneshwar is by air. A number of low-coast airlines operate daily flights to Bhubaneshwar from various key cities of India like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, etc. Book your Bhubaneshwar flights with makemytrip.com to avail some really good discounts.
|Biju Patnaik Airport is also known as Bhubaneswar Airport which is located 3km away from the heart of the Bhubaneswar city. Major airliners namely Air India, Air India Regional, Jet Airways and JetKonnect run flight to Vishakhapatnam, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Bangalore. Hotel Grand central, Hotel Kalinga Ashok and Hotel Sishmo are some of the hotels located nearby Bhubaneswar Airport. Check Bhubaneswar Flight Status here.
Airport Address
Latur Airport
Airport Name: Latur Airport
IATA Code: LTU
Address: Latur Airport Private Limited, Near Phata No.12, Barshi Road, Latur-413 512, Maharashtra, India.
Country: India
GMT Offset: +5:30 hours
Latitude: 18°24′37″N
Longitude: 076°27′53″E
Airlines connecting to Bhubaneshwar
Airline Links
Flights from Latur
Useful Resources
Hotels in Bhubaneshwar
Bhubaneshwar Hotels Near Airport
Corporate Links
Bhubaneshwar Premium Hotels
Jaydev ViharCheck Price


text:
Former Hedge Fund Manager, Todd Newman, Sentenced In Manhattan Federal Court To 54 Months In Prison
Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that TODD NEWMAN, a former portfolio manager at Diamondback Capital Management, LLC ("Diamondback"), was sentenced in Manhattan federal court to 54 months in prison for crimes stemming from his involvement in a multi-million dollar insider trading scheme. NEWMAN and co-defendant Anthony Chiasson, who was a former portfolio manager and co-founder of Level Global Investors, LP ("Level Global"), were convicted of various securities fraud charges on December 17, 2012, following a six-week jury trial. At trial, NEWMAN was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud, and four counts of securities fraud. He was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Sullivan.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said: "With today's sentence, Todd Newman becomes the first member of this corrupt circle of friends to be punished for his conduct. Efforts to cheat the market by gaining an illegal edge ultimately lead to a loss of one's liberty, as it did for Todd Newman today."
According to the Superseding Indictment, other court documents, statements made in court, and the evidence presented at trial:
NEWMAN was part of a criminal club of portfolio managers and analysts who obtained material nonpublic information ("Inside Information"), directly and indirectly, from employees who worked at public companies. Specifically, NEWMAN's research analyst, Jesse Tortora, together with research analysts at other investment firms – including Sam Adondakis, Jon Horvath and Danny Kuo – shared Inside Information with each other which the analysts then provided to their portfolio managers.
For example, in 2008 and 2009, NEWMAN received Inside Information from Tortora related to Dell's quarterly earnings, which Tortora had received from Sandy Goyal, an analyst who worked at another firm. Goyal had a source inside Dell's investor relations department who provided numerous updates on Dell's earnings numbers in advance of Dell's earnings announcements for multiple quarters in a row. NEWMAN authorized payments to Goyal through a sham research consulting arrangement between Goyal's wife and NEWMAN's firm, Diamondback Capital. In fact, Goyal's wife never provided any research consulting services, but Diamondback nonetheless paid her $175,000 in 2008 and 2009. NEWMAN traded on the Dell Inside Information in advance of the May 2008 and August 2008 quarterly earnings announcements, and earned nearly $4 million in illegal profits for his firm. Tortora also shared the Dell Inside Information with the other analysts, whose portfolio managers executed trades on that same Dell Inside information. Additionally, after Chiasson received the Dell Inside Information from his analyst Sam Adondakis, he executed or caused to be executed trades based on the Inside Information which resulted in more than $57 million in illegal profits for Level Global.
Similarly, in multiple fiscal quarters, NEWMAN obtained inside information concerning NVIDIA Corporation's earnings from analyst Danny Kuo, who worked at an investment firm in California. Among other things, email communications from Kuo that were forwarded to NEWMAN via Tortora in advance of the quarterly earnings announcements stated that the NVIDIA earnings numbers were obtained from "an accounting manager" at the company. NEWMAN's trading in NVIDIA resulted in approximately $73,000 in illegal trading profits for the benefit of Diamondback Capital. The NVIDIA Inside Information was similarly received by co-defendant Chiasson, who executed and caused to be executed trades based on the Inside Information, resulting in approximately $10 million in illegal profits for Level Global.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Sullivan sentenced NEWMAN, 48, of Needham, Massachusetts, to one year of supervised release. NEWMAN was also ordered to forfeit $737,724 and to pay a $1 million fine.
At trial, Chiasson, 39, of New York, New York, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud, and five counts of securities fraud. He will be sentenced by Judge Sullivan on May 13, 2013 at 10:00 a.m.
Horvath, 43, and Kuo, 37, each pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud and two counts of securities fraud in September 2012 and April 2012, respectively. Tortora, 35, Adondakis, 41, and Goyal, 40, each pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud and one count of securities fraud in May 2011, April 2011, and June 2011, respectively. These defendants await sentencing.
Mr. Bharara praised the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. He also noted that the investigation is continuing.
This case was brought in coordination with President Barack Obama's Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force, on which Mr. Bharara serves as a Co-Chair of the Securities and Commodities Fraud Working Group. The task force was established to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. With more than 20 federal agencies, 94 U.S. attorneys' offices and state and local partners, it's the broadest coalition of law enforcement, investigatory and regulatory agencies ever assembled to combat fraud. Since its formation, the task force has made great strides in facilitating increased investigation and prosecution of financial crimes; enhancing coordination and cooperation among federal, state and local authorities; addressing discrimination in the lending and financial markets and conducting outreach to the public, victims, financial institutions and other organizations. Over the past three fiscal years, the Justice Department has filed nearly 10,000 financial fraud cases against nearly 15,000 defendants including more than 2,900 mortgage fraud defendants. For more information on the task force, please visit www.stopfraud.gov.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Antonia M. Apps, Richard C. Tarlowe, and John T. Zach are in charge of the prosecution.


text:
The name of this tune speaks for itself and needs no detailed description. One has only to listen to her, and I'm sure you will smile.
Suitable for all funny and modern media projects, all limited only by your imagination.
This track is included in Corporate Acoustic Pack
Don't forget: You can rate this file after purchase.


text:
1-866-905-3063Email Us
The first homesteaders of Happy Valley were Christian and Matilda Deardorff. They claimed numerous acres of land under the U.S. Donation Land Offers program in 1851, and named it "Christilla Valley." As time went by, Deardorff used parcels of his land as a means of paying the men who worked for him, and the property changed hands many times as families came and went. Several pioneer families are still prominent residents today. Officially incorporated in 1965, increased urbanization of surrounding cities caused Happy Valley to experience tremendous growth in the late 1990's, and it remains one of Oregon's fastest growing areas. Neighboring communities include Sunnyside, Damascus and Estacada.
Residents of Happy Valley enjoy a high-quality lifestyle and take pride in the area's plentiful neighborhoods. The city's casual and friendly attitude provides a positive atmosphere for raising a family or establishing a new business venture. As a major center for the growing healthcare industry, the number of medical and business professionals attracted to Happy Valley has increased.
Many of the area homes are newer construction and consist of a wide variety of single family residences. Choose from single and multi-level, luxury and townhomes as well as sprawling estates. The area also has a number of gated communities with amenities such as pools, gyms and neighborhood associations.
In addition to the healthcare industry, new retail and service developments contribute to the area's economic expansion. At the heart of this expansion is the Happy Valley Towne Center, which has an abundance of shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities.
The area's outdoor activities focus on camaraderie and togetherness. The local group, Happy Valley Hikers, provides residents the opportunity to explore surrounding nature while getting to know new people and neighbors. Families often recreate at the Happy Valley Park where both kids and adults can play and exercise. During the warmer months, locals cool off at the park's Splash Pad, featuring 16 water sprays, showers and streams. Other park amenities include paved trails, covered areas, playgrounds, horseshoe pits and a fully fenced off-leash dog park.
Private mortgage insurance is an insurance policy that a residential mortgage lender requires of the borrower if the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of the home is greater than 80%. Mortgage insurance protects the lender from the risk that the borrower may default on the loan. Federal law requires lenders to notify borrowers when the loan-to-value ratio drops below 80%. Mortgage insurance premiums vary, but generally range from $1,000 to $5,000 a year for an average priced home.
Assessments are monthly fees such as Home Owners Association(HOA) Fees etc... Results received from this calculator are designed for comparative purposes only, and accuracy is not guaranteed.
Information deemed reliable but subject to change without notice. Qualified buyers only, subject to credit approval. This is not a commitment to lend. Consumer Loan License NMLS-3240, CL-3240.
In association with our #1 preferred local lender, Directors Mortgage, Hasson Company, Realtors® is able to provide a full spectrum of financial services, from online pre-approval to offering a guiding hand throughout the entire home buying process.
4 Beds | 3.1 Baths | 3,807 SQFT
4 Beds | 4.1 Baths | 5,180 SQFT
4 Beds | 2.1 Baths | 4,976 SQFT
4 Beds | 3.1 Baths | 4,700 SQFT
5 Beds | 3.1 Baths | 3,487 SQFT
7 Beds | 4.2 Baths | 7,070 SQFT
Listing Courtesy of
Harcourts Real Estate Network Group
The content relating to real estate for sale on this web site comes in part from the IDX program of the RMLS™ of Portland, Oregon. Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than Hasson Company, Realtors® are marked with the IDX logo, and detailed information about these properties includes the names of the listing brokers. Listing content is copyright © 2015 RMLS™, Portland, Oregon.This property was last updated: July 16, 2018 2:41 PM


text:
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Little Pieces
41 comments:
- helen tilston said...
What beautiful memories you have of your daughter. Wishing her a very happy birthday and may this be her best year ever. I have early memories of a joyful mother who played skip rope with us and was full of love, generosity and fun.
Have a great weekend
- March 3, 2012 at 5:24 PM
- Debby said...
Sweet post. Happy 17th to your daughter.
- March 3, 2012 at 6:30 PM
- Stuff and Nonsense said...
so sweet to be
the keeper of your daughter's
early memories
i must think about mine
about what i really recall
versus what i have heard about
or seen in photos
and therefore made mine
happy birthday
to your little girl!
- March 3, 2012 at 6:52 PM
- Biz said...
I can't imagine how I'll be feeling in 16.5 years when my baby girl is 17!
Doesn't sound so far off and yet I know there is so much that will happen between now and then.
So many memories will be made!
So many things to do and see and be!
I'm so excited!
Happy Birthday to You little one!
She's amazing!
- March 3, 2012 at 7:01 PM
- NanaDiana said...
Suzanne- What beautiful memories you carry with you...for you and your daughter. I can remember many things from the time I was about 3 on. I think I am a memory keeper, too.
Blessings to your sweet 17 year old love! xo Diana
- March 3, 2012 at 7:38 PM
- Low Tide High Style said...
Those memories are gifts she will carry with her always, like a big bag where she will find small treasures when she looks inside it over the years!
Happy Birthday to your beautiful and oh so talented daughter!
Kat :)
- March 3, 2012 at 10:43 PM
- Hindsfeet said...
Just beautiful.
- March 3, 2012 at 10:46 PM
- Hindsfeet said...
Just beautiful.
- March 3, 2012 at 10:46 PM
So beautiful, Suzanne...I, too, have a new 17-year-old daughter. And my 22-year-old daughter surprised us with a visit home this week--such a joy!
Reminiscing is always a part of these visits...I'm always struck with how vivid my memories of her childhood are--and how spotty hers are of the same things...hard to believe. But, like you said so beautifully, I'm not sad about it, I just make even more sure those special moments are never forgotten...ever.
Enjoy all those precious moments, dear friend...have a beautiful, beautiful weekend...
- March 4, 2012 at 12:00 AM
- A Vintage Chic said...
That last comment was me--for some reason I accidentally hit "anonymous"!
- March 4, 2012 at 12:00 AM
- Olive Cooper said...
I think I remember being in the back of a boat as it was motoring across the lake and I caught my first fish by dangling my pole in the water wily nily. Happy Birthday to your fine girl.
- March 4, 2012 at 5:07 AM
- Castles Crowns and Cottages said...
I can remember a moment when I was 6 months old. I even have a photo of that day that my mother took. It was the only recollection I have of my maternal grandfather. In the photo, I am on the floor on a blanket, my grandpa sitting on the couch, embracing my 5 year old cousin. I remember crying BECAUSE I WANTED HIM TO PICK ME UP. I do remember that; and in the picture you can see his face a bit contorted and looking at me. I remember what he said. "SHUT UP" said he, in Spanish. It has stayed with me all these years.
Lovely words dear friend! Anita
- March 4, 2012 at 5:13 AM
- Hartwood Roses said...
I'm sitting here smiling, remembering the memories of when my own daughters were little. Our youngest turns 25 in two weeks ... where has the time gone?
- March 4, 2012 at 6:35 AM
- Linda in AZ * said...
*** This is sooo beautifully stated, directly from your warm heart... HAPPY BIRTHDAY to your 17 year old Young Woman!!!
Hugs to her, and keep one for yourself, dear Suzanne!
Linda in AZ *
- March 4, 2012 at 7:00 AM
- Lisa Scibilia said...
Happy birthday to lovely Elizabeth!
Wishing you more happy memory making in the year ahead!
- March 4, 2012 at 7:41 AM
- Beach House Living said...
Happy Birthday!
- March 4, 2012 at 9:40 AM
- Beatnheart said...
your daughter is a lucky girl to have such a warm and loving mum.
- March 4, 2012 at 11:26 AM
- Kat said...
Simply lovely! Your beautiful words always bring a smile and a tear. You have a knack for expressing yourself beautifully.
- March 4, 2012 at 12:00 PM
- Leslie said...
Happy. Birthday to your daughter! This is such t touching post. The older I get the less I seem to recall about my childhood. My own children - those seem to be at the for-front of my mind. I'm so glad we took lots of pictures and videos!
- March 4, 2012 at 1:35 PM
- Farmgirl Paints said...
Happy birthday Elizabeth. Can't believe you are 17!!! Holy cow. Loved this post Suzanne. Your writing moves me. My earliest memories are of birthday parties, picking strawberries from our patch, rainy day gift bags from my mom, sweet friends spending the night. Good things. Thanks for reminding me of them.
- March 4, 2012 at 6:01 PM
- SuzyMcQ said...
Happy Belated Birthday to the beautiful Miss E!
All the best to you, always........
- March 4, 2012 at 7:36 PM
- Stitchfork said...
Hope E had a fabulous birthday! The balloons made me smile...one of our family traditions was to tie the birthday number of balloons to the bedpost after they went to sleep, so the first sight in the morning was a bouquet of balloons - one for each year.
xo Cathy
- March 4, 2012 at 10:20 PM
- Linda @ Itsy Bits And Pieces said...
OH so lovely, Suzanne...you have such a beautiful relationship with your daughter! I hope her birthday was truly special! My earliest memories are when I was three years old and living in very HOT El Paso Texas...swimming in a little pool my father made of lumber and a tent canvas, and of my little sister and I sitting on a blanket in the shade of a bush, having the cold milk and graham crackers that our mother brought us. It is so sweet to remember memories of being so new in the world...
- March 4, 2012 at 10:29 PM
- Palomasea said...
Suzanne, I have tears in my eyes from this exquisite post (and also from Anita's story about Grandpa!)...
What a beautiful love letter this is..A Very Happy Birthday to your darling girl! Those precious little moments of every day activities when they are small, oh how cherished they are. Just lovely!!
- Irina
- March 4, 2012 at 10:42 PM
- Jemsmom said...
Suzanne!!! You always bring me to tears! I mean that in such a good way!!! Happy Birthday to your sweet girl!
I have two very young memories. At the age of three, I tormented my mother with my sass so much that she called my father (he was a police officer working the night shift), told him to come home, and locked herself in the bathroom! I decided I should just run away so I packed my little blue oval suitcase with soft padded sides. Pulled on wool knee high socks with my nightgown. I added a sweater and my three foot Raggedy Anne doll to the mix. I remember knocking on the door and informing my mom that I was running away. She walked me out to the garage. I can still see her face looking out the back door of the garage at me. I got to the edge of the garage and remember that the night was as black as ink. I was terrified of the dark and I asked my mom to drive me to grandma's. My dad got home then and I don't remember much after that!!!
I also have a memory and I couldn't have been more than 2 or 3. We used to go to Bluegrass Festivals way way way out in the woods of east Tennessee. I can remember laying on a bench with my head in my mom's lap and she was stroking my hair. I was looking at the fire and listening to the music. I got sleepy and rolled over in her lap. I remember the small v patter on her shirt. It was a very popular pattern in the 70's and when I see it I go right back to that moment. Most of all, I remember her stroking my hair.
Ahhhh, you make me remember so many wonderful things!
- March 4, 2012 at 11:15 PM
- lisaroyhandbags said...
happy birthday to your sweet girl! You've created so many beautiful memories for her that she'll treasure all her life. As I get older, I remember less about the earliest years but there are always little snippets here and there xo
- March 4, 2012 at 11:28 PM
- Blooming Rose Musings said...
Happy Birthday to your very lovely daughter. Birthdays are always special to both the child and the mother. This is such a lovely post and you will have many, many more memories to share.
Happy Birthday, Elizabeth!
- March 5, 2012 at 2:38 AM
- Teacup Moments said...
Oh, all choked up right now. I love all your memories, little pieces you call them. But then what s that they say - the small things ARE the BIG things, in the end. Happy Birthday to your sweet daughter! She's all set in this life, having YOU for a mom. Cheers! xoxo T
- March 5, 2012 at 5:20 AM
- Mary Timmers said...
Some of my earliest memories come from our small house in a small neighborhood in Red Wing, Minnesota. I would get up on a cool June morning and cross our narrow street to our nieghbor's house. There I would sit on their front steps in the sunshine and WARM UP and just BE.I still love to have the sun warm me up when I'm cold. Thanks for sharing your memories and evoking mine!
- March 5, 2012 at 8:14 AM
- Elaine @ Sunny Simple Life said...
Oh I think mommies miss the little people we once knew. Everyone else we know stays the same or are basically adults but our little ones grow up and change so much that the little person is gone. So wonderful to watch them grow and blossom.
- March 5, 2012 at 10:26 AM
- paige said...
beauitful poetry my friend
& yes, even if she doesn't recall some of those precious moments in her mind, i bet they're tucked in her heart & soul.
that & she clearly feels your love for her.
happy 17th to your sweet sweet girl
- March 5, 2012 at 10:49 AM
- pollydove said...
Boy, my earliest memories are from kindergarten, and most of them were traumatic, not pleasant! Wouldn't it be so fun to be able to replay those snippets of happy little times in our lives and in the lives of our children? Sigh!
What a sweet tribute to your darling girl. Happy birthday wishes to her! I am loving these photos today .... especially the balloons! Have fun!
- March 5, 2012 at 12:25 PM
- Castles Crowns and Cottages said...
Thank you dear friend for your comment today! CELEBRATE!!!!!! Anita
- March 5, 2012 at 5:29 PM
- pretty pink tulips said...
From one Elizabeth to another....Happy Birthday!!! I love the little bits you've shared. The best memories are usually the simplest. A smell, a touch, a look. My birthday is a few months away and this has me thinking about the little bits that I want to capture before I turn another year older!!!
xoxo Elizabeth
- March 5, 2012 at 6:14 PM
- michele said...
happy birthday to your sweet girlie!
my childhood memories are sweet. lots of swedish pancakes, always barefooted, singing a lot of solos in church, and sitting next to my mom at the piano.
thanks for reminding me, lovely lady.
- March 5, 2012 at 8:37 PM
- Bonnie said...
Oh yes, Suzanne I have many lovely memories. You write so beautifully and delight me with how you share your memory and give me some of mine to mull over again. Happy Birthday to your sweet daughter. What a treasure she and you have together.
- March 5, 2012 at 9:12 PM
- Tiffini Kilgore said...
happy birthday to your sweet daughter! hope it was a beautiful day.
just getting a breather. missing you and wanted to check in.
those are precious mommy times..remembering all the years. I STILL can't get over how fast they go and I STILL would love to have a day of them back:)
- March 6, 2012 at 10:23 AM
- Julie said...
A beautiful post Suzanne...I so smile and agree with you...When I was younger, I think I wondered how much my kids would remember about their childhoods because I couldn't recapture all of MY OWN childhood days, weeks, months...but as a veteran mama...now I know it's not about what they can recall in memory so much - as you so eloquently state! :-) as it is that their lives were being woven together bit by bit and thread by thread to make that beautiful and valuable and cherished person that they are today. AND I KNOW IT...now...like the photograph slowly developing in the dark room...as it all comes together until the finished picture is crystal clear and what you see is all of that process finished...from the days spent with mom and dad..in the nest...changing - learning - growing - BECOMING. I love this post. It was good for my heart. HUGS to you Suzanne. Love ya! xo
- March 6, 2012 at 12:49 PM
- Jeanie said...
What a thoughtful question for her to ask -- if it bothered you that she didn't remember much from back then -- and your answer is as mine would have been!
My earliest memories are being about three or four -- one of my dearest friends moved away then, but we remain friends to this day. I remember bits and pieces of that time, more after school started, but more like fragments of a dream. And that's OK, though there isn't anyone to remember them for me -- I remember so very much more!
- March 6, 2012 at 5:33 PM
- GLENDA CHILDERS said...
Hope the birthday was as beautiful and fun as the cool balloons.
I do believe that our world is becoming a bit of a scary place at times ... so I am grateful for every moment I spent with our daughters, giving them wonderful memories. Memories to sustain them.
I love your joy in motherhood, Susanne. I share it.
- March 6, 2012 at 11:18 PM
- Lili said...
You are such a beautiful writer Suzanne. xoxo ~Lili
- March 10, 2012 at 7:07 PM


text:
Brasília, city, federal capital of Brazil. It is located in the Federal District (Distrito Federal) carved out of Goiás state on the central plateau of Brazil. At an elevation of some 3,500 feet (1,100 metres), it lies between the headwaters of the Tocantins, Paraná, and São Francisco rivers. Because of its unique city plan and architecture, as well as its unprecedented role in the development of the Brazilian interior, the city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. Area Federal District, 2,240 square miles (5,802 square km). Pop. (2000) 1,961,499; Federal District, 2,051,146; metro. area, 2,952,276; (2010) 2,476,249; Federal District, 2,570,160; metro. area, 3,717,728.
Physical and human geography
The landscape
City layout
The plan of the central city has been likened to a bird, a bow and arrow, or an airplane. Designed by the Brazilian architect Lúcio Costa, its form is emphasized by the Highway Axis (Eixo Rodoviário), which curves from the north to the southwest and links Brasília's main residential neighbourhoods, and the straight Monumental Axis (Eixo Monumental), which runs northwest-southeast and is lined by federal and civic buildings. At the northwestern end of the Monumental Axis are federal district and municipal buildings, while at the southeastern end, near the middle shore of Lake Paranoá, stand the executive, judicial, and legislative buildings around the Square of Three Powers, the conceptual heart of the city.
These and other major structures were designed by the Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. In the Square of Three Powers, he created as a focal point the dramatic Congressional Palace, which is a composition of five parts: twin administrative towers flanked by a large, white concrete dome (the meeting place of the Senate) and by an equally massive concrete bowl (the Chamber of Deputies), which is joined to the dome by an underlying, flat-roofed building. A series of low-lying annexes (largely out of sight) flank both ends. Also in the square are the glass-faced Planalto Palace (housing the presidential offices) and the Palace of the Supreme Court. Farther east, on a triangle of land jutting into the lake, is the Palace of the Dawn (Palácio da Alvorada; the presidential residence). Between the federal and civic buildings on the Monumental Axis is the city's cathedral, considered by many to be Niemeyer's finest achievement. The parabolically shaped structure is characterized by its 16 gracefully curving supports, which join in a circle 115 feet (35 metres) above the floor of the nave; stretched between the supports are translucent walls of tinted glass. The nave is entered via a subterranean passage rather than conventional doorways. Other notable buildings are Buriti Palace, Itamaraty Palace (the Palace of Foreign Affairs), the National Theatre, and several foreign embassies that creatively embody features of their national architecture.
Both low-cost and luxury housing were built by the government in the central city area. The residential zones of the inner city are arranged into superquadras ("superblocks"), groups of apartment buildings along with a prescribed number and type of schools, retail stores, and open spaces. At the northern end of Lake Paranoá, separated from the inner city, is a peninsula upon which stand many fashionable homes; a similar neighbourhood exists on the southern lakeshore. Originally, the city planners envisioned extensive public areas along the shores of the artificial lake, but, during early development of the area, private clubs, hotels, and upscale residences and restaurants gained footholds around the water. Set well apart from the city are suburban "satellite towns," including Gama, Ceilândia, Taguatinga, Núcleo Bandeirante, Sobradinho, and Planaltina. These areas were not planned as permanent settlements and thus offer stark contrasts to the symmetry and spacing of Brasília.
The city has been acclaimed for its use of modernist architecture on a grand scale and for its somewhat utopian city plan; however, it has been roundly criticized for much the same reasons. After a visit to Brasília, the French writer Simone de Beauvoir complained that all of its superquadras exuded "the same air of elegant monotony," and other observers have equated the city's large open lawns, plazas, and fields to wastelands. As the city has matured, some of these have gained adornments, and many have been improved by landscaping, giving some observers a sense of "humanized" spaciousness.
The climate is warm and mild with average minimum and maximum temperatures of about 57 °F (14 °C) and 81 °F (27 °C), respectively. Rainfall averages some 60 inches (1,600 mm) per year with a dry season from March to October, and humidity is generally between 40 and 80 percent (it fell to 11 percent during a drought in 1994).
The people
Brasília's inhabitants include both foreigners (notably ambassadorial staff) and Brazilians, some of whom came from economically impoverished areas in the Northeast to take part in the city's building. Later, many more moved from Rio de Janeiro and other urban centres to staff the myriad government agencies. The population of both central and satellite areas grew tremendously in the first decade of the city's construction; the city alone held some 64,000 inhabitants in 1959, and it was home to more than 272,000 by 1970. In the Federal District, 139,796 persons were counted in the 1960 census, and 537,492 were enumerated 10 years later. The populations of the city and the Federal District soon reached a rough parity, the number of residents in each exceeding two million in the early 21st century.
The economy
Services and industries
The major roles of construction and of services (government, communications, banking and finance, food production, entertainment, and legal services) in Brasília's economy reflect the city's status as a governmental rather than an industrial centre. Industries connected with construction, food processing, and furnishings are important, as are those associated with publishing, printing, and computer software. Many nationwide companies and associations have headquarters there.
Highways and air routes link Brasília with the rest of the nation, and there is regular national and international air service. Railways connect the city with Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
Within the city itself, automobiles and buses are the main forms of urban transportation because of the primacy afforded expressways in the city's design and the considerable distances between inner-city neighbourhoods.. The city also has an underground transit system.
Local government
Until 1990 the governor of the Federal District was appointed by the Brazilian president and confirmed by the Senate. In that year, in keeping with provisions of the 1988 constitution, Joaquim Domingos Roriz was chosen in the first election for district governor. Reporting to the governor are numerous secretaries responsible for public works, welfare, education, law enforcement, and other concerns. The Senate acts as the legislative branch of local government. In 1986 the voters in the district elected their first congressional representatives to the national assembly, and since that time elections have been conducted as in any of Brazil's states.
Cultural life
The University of Brasília (1962) is central to much of the city's cultural life. The Cultural Foundation sponsors many national meetings in the arts and letters, and several foreign information centres are available. Housed in an irregularly shaped pyramidal structure, the National Theatre features dramatic, symphonic, and operatic works. Historical institutions include the Museum of Brasília, with a historical record of Brasília's creation, the Federal Reserve Museum, and the Image and Sound Museum of the Institute of History and Geography.
An initial lack of recreational facilities has been overcome in Brasília by numerous cinemas and nightclubs and a proliferation of sporting grounds in the city and suburbs. The city also has many swimming pools. A zoological park and forest reserves have been developed, and boating and fishing are popular activities on Lake Paranoá and the nearby rivers. The city boasts two professional soccer stadiums, one accompanied by an indoor arena for other sports.
The idea of a capital city located in the interior was proposed in 1789 by Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, a leader in the independence movement. It was reiterated in 1822 (when Brazil gained its independence from Portugal) by the scientist and politician José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva, and it was embodied in the constitution of 1891. More than 50 years passed, however, before the logistical, political, and economic barriers to such a move could be overcome. Eight years of surveying and testing in the interior preceded the selection of Brasília's present site in 1956. That same year marked the beginning of work under the leadership of President Juscelino Kubitschek de Oliveira. Following the establishment of an airstrip, heavy machinery was flown in, and construction crews began to carve out city streets, the artificial lake, and the foundations of the principal buildings. Simultaneously, thousands of miles of interregional highways were created or extended to link the district with cities in the south (Belo Horizonte, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo), north (Belém), and east (Fortaleza, Recife, and Salvador). In April 1960 the Square of Three Powers was dedicated, and the federal government began its move from Rio de Janeiro, albeit at a far slower pace than was initially envisioned. The city stood as a symbol to many Brazilians of the future growth of the nation. It embodied the national will to overcome chronic economic and social problems through the exploitation of the country's vast untapped interior; however, the great cost of its construction and the radical nature of its architecture were the subjects of intense criticism. Also of concern during subsequent decades was the environmental damage resulting from expansion of the region's transportation infrastructure, which greatly facilitated access to the Amazon rainforest to the north.
Following the military overthrow of the government in 1964, work on the city continued, although many of Niemeyer and Costa's original plans were scrapped by the regime, who disagreed with their allegedly "Marxist" tendencies. Civilian government was restored in 1985, and symbolic changes were made in the city's structures; for example, the marble facing on the Ministry of Justice was removed, and the building was brought back into accordance with Niemeyer's original blueprints.
By the end of the 20th century, the consequences of Brasília's rapid construction—from cracks in its concrete plazas to the deterioration of its lower-income housing—had begun to show. The social problems and disruptions of basic services that accompanied rapid, uncontrolled population growth—issues common to other large Brazilian cities—also were major concerns. The introduction of self-government during the 1990s spawned progressive administrations that attempted to address these problems. Lake Paranoá became increasingly polluted until a water treatment program was inaugurated; by the late 1990s the lake was again serving as a popular recreational area.
By the 21st century, the failure of the city's original plan to deal with a swelling population was obvious. In essence, Brasília had become two spatially segregated communities: the central planned city, with a mostly wealthy population, and the sprawling unplanned periphery, where the low- and middle-income individuals lived without adequate infrastructure, services, and civic spaces. Symbolic of the seeming gap between Brasília's utopian aspirations and its sometimes disappointing realities was Mané Garrincha stadium, one of several multimillion-dollar venues constructed for Brazil's hosting of the football (soccer) World Cup in 2014. Because Brasília lacked a high-profile professional football team, within a few years of completion the new stadium was dramatically underused.The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica


text:
Rotational statics and dynamics problems (10)
Physics: Rotational statics and dynamics problems. This is a recording of a tutoring session, posted with the student's permission. These videos are offered on a "pay-what-you-like" basis. You can pay for the use of the videos at my website: http://www.freelance-teacher.com/videos.htm For printable documents containing the problems discussed in this video series and a handout, go to my website. For a list of all the available video series, arranged in suggested viewing order, go to my website. For a playlist containing all the videos in this series, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6Ocl2OSvhA&feature=PlayList&p=8497797D7DE23F89&index=0&playnext=1 (1) A problem (2) Continued (3) Continued (4) Continued (5) Continued (6) Another problem (7) Continued (8) Continued (9) Continued (10) Continued
Length: 09:31