text:
We were a student down yesterday, Arturo didn't make it into school. I didn't think too much about it because he had complained of a stomach ache on Monday. He wasn't in today, because he was in hospital. Recovering. From an operation. Ooops. Earlier on this year, in August we had talked about adaptations in Science. We had discussed the fact that a long, long time ago humans used to eat grass. Grass is very difficult to digest. In fact, to help digest grass cows have four (?) stomachs. Humans only have the one stomach, but what they did have was a working appendix. This helped them with the heavy work of "getting the goodness out of grass". Of course, nowadays most of us don't eat grass – even Miss Lilian gives it a miss – so our appendix is useless. It just sits there, in our tummies with nothing to do. Except, it is fully loaded with "grass-digesting-acid" and when it gets bored, it decides to cause problems. it fills up with horrible stuff and makes a decision to explode. [This is a very bad description of appendicitis, if you are thinking of becoming a doctor I'd look elsewhere for a description.] Anyway, Arturo's appendix had decided to "join the other side". As I explained, back in August, this is not necessarily a problem if it is caught quickly enough. And, in Arturo's case, he is fine. In fact, he has already told his mum that he expects to be back in school on Thursday – because there are exams next week! If you are reading this Arturo, don't worry. Get better, get strong. The exams will wait. You are more important!
The maths lesson was a return to prime factors, in a way. It was also a quick revision of
H.G.C.F. and a lead in to L.C.M.. It went well, very well. In fact, as far as I can remember, the only person who made a *huuuuuuuge* mistake was Mr. Kay. I confused the G.C.F. for the L.C.M. , and then proceeded to confuse everyone by claiming that the L.C.M. of 16 and 32 was 16 (instead of 32). I had to take myself out of the classroom and give myself a good talking to. (I think there might have been some screaming and shouting involved as well.)
In the English lesson there was also some screaming and shouting. Again it was Mr. Kay who was involved, except in this case it had more to do with him creeping round the classroom, and coming up behind some third graders who were trying to hide near Sr. Francisco's workshop. This put them very close (just outside) the classroom windows. The English lesson was complicated enough – trying to explain the difference between compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences – without several children sitting outside the window, chatting away. However, one good scream from Mr. Kay and they all ran away. It also had the added benefit of making sure that everyone in my classroom was also awake!
I love teaching. I really enjoy it. I like teaching maths because it is full of "oh yeah" moments. Those moments when students get something, suddenly understand it, and immediately (and totally involuntarily) go "Ohhhhhhh!". As if a firework display had suddenly gone off in the classroom. I enjoy teaching Science. I love the fact that children have endless fascination about information. It is brilliant to see the world through children's eyes, to realise that just because we, as adults, know stuff, the whole world is new to them. I love teaching sport, specifically rugby (I will talk about this a bit more at morning line up tomorrow). In fact, I enjoy teaching most subjects – even the ones that I am no good at. You should see some of my art! However, i could never be a music teacher. I popped in to Professor Marvin's music lesson this afternoon, and he was quite happy with the work that was going on. He had given the students five minutes to practise a musical piece. They were all practising at the same time! It sounded like this:
I have nothing but respect for anyone who can sit through that without going home every night with a headache! Of course, because I know nothing, and he is a better music teacher than I will ever be, the result of this cacophony was very impressive:
Oh, I was going to tell you a story about why W*dn*sd*y became W*dnesd*y, and how, six years ago on September 21st 2006 I made a decision to move to Mexico. But that might have to wait for another time. The pizza has just arrived and I am hungry!
- Maths: Reteaching 3-4 Nos: 4 -> 9 Practice 3-4 Nos: 1 -> 10
- English: Spelling Workbook p. 14, 16
- Writing Assignment: Book Report (for Friday)
- Read: 20 minutes
- Homework Diary: signed
- LAPTOPS: fully charged and in school


text:
As the closest beach to the Arizona border, Puerto Penasco – or "Rocky Point" as it's commonly called – is a hot spring break and year-round tourist destination, despite travel warnings in Mexico. Visitors love the beach town for its soft sand, fresh seafood and days filled with water sports. Two different routes run from Nogales, Arizona, to Rocky Point, with distances ranging from 220 to 267 miles.
The Shortest Route Isn't the Safest
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs considers the state of Sonora a Level 3 travel risk and advises reconsidering travel to or through the area. The U.S. government forbids its employees to travel within the triangle formed by Nogales, Sonoyta and the municipality of Altar because of high crime. The shortest route between Nogales and Puerto Penasco on Highway 2 skirts the eastern edge of this triangle, bringing with it the highest risk for trouble of the two routes heading for Puerto Penasco. The route is no time saver either: It takes 10 minutes longer than the next shortest – and much safer – route.
The Safety Corridor
Although it feels like going out of the way, heading north to Tucson, taking State Highway 86 over to the tiny town of Why and entering Mexico at Sonoyta is just 47 miles farther and 10 minutes faster than the most direct route. Once you're in Mexico, travel International Highway 8 straight to Puerto Penasco. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) works in conjunction with the state of Sonora to provide real-time traffic information through their AZ511.gov website and restore traffic flow after crashes. Safety checks on the roadways, signage in both Spanish and English and ADOT training for first responders along the corridor make this the safest and smoothest way to travel from Arizona to Rocky Point.
Where to Get Fuel
Traveling between Nogales and Puerto Penasco involves long stretches of open desert, so it's vital to plan fuel stops carefully. Make the 80-mile journey to Three Points, 24 miles west of Tucson on Highway 86, to get the best fuel prices along the route. Top off your tank at Lukeville before crossing the border into Sonoyta and traveling the remaining 156 miles to Rocky Point.
Prepare for Mexico Travel
Before throwing the beach towels in the trunk and heading down the road, make sure you have all the required documents to travel to Mexico. Personal ID includes a valid passport card, passport or NEXUS card. Keep your U.S. driver's license on you at all times.
Taking a vehicle into Mexico isn't as simple as rolling across the border. A vehicle import permit isn't required, because Puerto Penasco lies within the Sonora Free Zone, but Mexican automobile insurance is a must. The U.S. State Department recommends full-coverage insurance that will provide for the cost of bail should you be at fault in an accident south of the border. Expect to be taken into police custody if you're in a wreck –whether or not you're at fault – until liability is determined. Bring a major credit card and make sure the car's registration matches the name on the driver's ID. If the car registration doesn't have the same name as your driver's license, park in Lukeville, walk across the border to Sonoyta, and rent a car.
Leaf Group is a USA TODAY content partner providing general travel information. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.
- Trip Savvy: Rocky Point Travel Guide and Tips
- Google Travel Guide
- Gas Buddy: Trip Cost Calculator
- ADOT: From the Director – Collaboration is Key
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection: NEXUS
- MexPro.com: What is the Mexico Free/Border Zone?
- MexPro.com: 5 Things You Need Before You Drive to Mexico
- Explore Sonoira: Rent a Car to Explore Sonora
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
- Attribution: Elnogalense; License: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license
- Attribution: Unknown; License: public domain

subset: commoncrawl


text:
This article will be permanently flagged as inappropriate and made unaccessible to everyone.
Are you certain this article is inappropriate?
Excessive Violence
Sexual Content
Political / Social
Email Address:
Article Id:
Reproduction Date:
In thermodynamics and materials science, the physical properties of substances are often described as intensive or extensive, a classification that relates to the dependency of the properties upon the size or extent of the system or object in question.
The distinction is based on the concept that smaller, non-interacting identical subdivisions of the system may be identified so that the property of interest does or does not change when the system is divided, or combined.
An intensive property is a bulk property, meaning that it is a physical property of a system that does not depend on the system size or the amount of material in the system. Examples of intensive properties are the temperature and the hardness of an object. No matter how small a diamond is cut, it maintains its intrinsic hardness.
By contrast, an extensive property is one that is additive for independent, noninteracting subsystems.[1] The property is proportional to the amount of material in the system. For example, both the mass and the volume of a diamond are directly proportional to the amount that is left after cutting it from the raw mineral. Mass and volume are extensive properties, but hardness is intensive.
The ratio of two extensive properties, such as mass and volume, is scale-invariant, and this ratio, the density, is hence an intensive property.
This terminology of intensive and extensive properties was introduced by Richard C. Tolman in 1917.[2]
An intensive property is a physical quantity whose value does not depend on the amount of the substance for which it is measured. For example, the temperature of a system in thermal equilibrium is the same as the temperature of any part of it. If the system is divided the temperature of each subsystem is identical. The same applies to the density of a homogeneous system; if the system is divided in half, the mass and the volume change in the identical ratio and the density remains unchanged. Additionally, the boiling point of a substance is another example of an intensive property. For example, the boiling point for water is 100°C at a pressure of one atmosphere, a fact which remains true regardless of quantity.
According to the state postulate, for a sufficiently simple system, only two independent intensive variables are needed to fully specify the entire state of a system. Other intensive properties can be derived from the two known values.
Some intensive properties, such as viscosity, are empirical macroscopic quantities and are not relevant to extremely small systems.
There are four properties in any thermodynamic system, two are intensive and two are extensive.
If the set of parameters, \{a_i\}, are intensive properties and another set, \{A_j\}, are extensive properties, then the function F(\{a_i\},\{A_j\}) is an intensive property if for all \alpha,
It follows, for example, that the ratio of two extensive properties is an intensive property - density (intensive) is equal to mass (extensive) divided by volume (extensive).
Examples of intensive properties include:
An extensive property is defined by the IUPAC Green Book as a physical quantity which is the sum of the properties of separate noninteracting subsystems that compose the entire system.[1] The value of such an additive property is proportional to the size of the system it describes, or to the quantity of matter in the system. Taking on the example of melting ice, the amount of heat required to melt ice is an extensive property. The amount of heat required to melt one ice cube would be much less than the amount of heat required to melt an iceberg, so it is dependent on the quantity.
Extensive properties are the counterparts of intensive properties, which are intrinsic to a particular subsystem. Dividing one type of extensive property by a different type of extensive property will in general give an intensive value. For example, mass (extensive) divided by volume (extensive) gives density (intensive).
If a set of parameters \{a_i\} are intensive properties and another set \{A_j\} are extensive properties, then the function F(\{a_i\},\{A_j\}) is an extensive property if for all \alpha,
Thus, extensive properties are homogeneous functions (of degree 1) with respect to \{A_j\}. It follows from Euler's homogeneous function theorem that
where the partial derivative is taken with all parameters constant except A_j. The converse is also true - any function which obeys the above relationship will be extensive.
Examples of extensive properties include:
Although not true for all physical properties, some properties have corresponding extensive and intensive analogs, many of which are thermodynamic properties. Examples of such extensive thermodynamic properties, that are dependent on the size of the thermodynamic system in question, include volume, internal energy, enthalpy, entropy, Gibbs free energy, Helmholtz free energy, and heat capacity (in the sense of thermal mass). The symbols of these extensive thermodynamic properties shown here are capital letters.
For homogeneous substances, these extensive thermodynamic properties each have corresponding intensive thermodynamic properties, which are expressed on a per mass or volume basis. The name is usually prefixed with the adjective specific to indicate that they are bulk properties, valid at any location (smaller subdivision) in a thermodynamic system. They may be dependent on other conditions at any point, such as temperature, pressure, and material composition, but are not considered dependent on the size of a thermodynamic system or on the amount of material in the system.
Specific volume is volume per mass, the reciprocal of density which equals mass per volume.
If a molecular weight can be assigned for the substance, or the amount of substance (in moles) can be determined, then each of these thermodynamic properties may be expressed on a molar basis, and their name may be qualified with the adjective molar, yielding terms such as molar volume, molar internal energy, molar enthalpy, molar entropy. Standards for the symbols of molar quantities do not exist. A well known molar volume is that of an ideal gas at standard conditions for temperature and pressure, with the value 22.41liters/mol. Molar Gibbs free energy is commonly referred to as chemical potential, symbolized by μ, particularly when discussing a partial molar Gibbs free energy μi for a component i in a mixture.
The general validity of the division of physical properties into extensive and intensive kinds has been addressed in the course of science.[2][3] The two categories are not all-inclusive and some well-defined physical properties conform to neither definition, including mathematical functions such as the square of volume[3] or the square root of volume.[2] This class of functions has no special name and is generally excluded from consideration in thermodynamics.
Redlich also pointed out that the assignment of some properties as intensive or extensive may depend on the way in which subsystems are arranged. For example, if two identical galvanic cells are connected in parallel, the voltage of the system is equal to the voltage of each cell, while the electric charge transferred (or the electric current) is extensive.[2] However if the same cells are connected in series, the charge becomes intensive and the voltage extensive.[2] The IUPAC definitions do not consider such cases.[1]
el:Εκτατική μεταβλητή
hu:Intenzív mennyiség
nl:Extensieve grootheid
no:Intensive og ekstensive egenskaper
nn:Intensiv eigenskap
pl:Zmienna ekstensywna
pt:Propriedades extensivas
ru:Интенсивная величина
sl:Ekstenzivna količina
uk:Інтенсивна величина


text:
I have left my boys in (unseasonably warm Melbourne) while I'm attending a course in (dependably) warm and sunny Brisbane. Four nights away from my little ones is a first. I was feeling a little unsure of how I would go…but…I can say that I am LOVING LIFE. It's such a rare treat to have time to think, read, write, walk, sit, be in the present moment, indulge myself in whatever trivial pursuit takes my fancy…such as reading a newspaper article from start to finish. Just imagine that! I feel like I'm on ecstasy! Every little thing is absolutely amazingly fantastic.
Now that you have a feel for the context of a very over excited mother of two kids under four having a bit of time to herself let me give you a bit of a travel bio of Brisbane…
So lets start with my flight. Nath and the boys dropped me off at the airport and I covered all of them in kisses and thought how much I would miss them all. Normally the next step would be waiting in the interminably long line at the check-in counters with lots of luggage and bored kids. However this time I had only carry-on luggage and a ready-printed boarding pass. It was such a deliciously light feeling to have just the few possessions on my back, anonymity and only myself to think of.
My first morning in Brisbane began with what I can joyfully report was an excellent latte at the Brown Dog Cafe in Woolloongabba. With that first sip I had my divine confirmation that this move was meant to be!
My next day free. FREE! What an amazing concept. I was at liberty to do whatever I damn well felt like. Indulge any desire, any thought. I started with a walk to the train station past all the characteristic Queenslanders and tropical gardens that to a Victorian cry out 'holiday'. I guess this is just normality to Brisvegans but to me everything is new, exciting and full of promise.
At the train station I met a Ugandan musician with a big friendly smile and a pile of musical instruments on his back. In Melbourne my normal mode would be blend and avoid eye contact. However I am a tourist here! I am anonymous and I am full of freedom, inspiration and enthusiasm. So we strike up a conversation after he tells me he is from Uganda and I tell him I've been there. He tells me that he was a World Vision sponsor child and that his sponsor family brought him out here a few years ago. Since then he's parted ways with his sponsor family and has spent the last seven years trying to get a visa. I asked him how old he was because I was interested in his story. He was taken aback and told me he wouldn't tell me but asked how old I was. I told him – 34! He asked what I do and I confidently told him that I am a writer. (This is a huge deal for me because up until this point I talk about liking to write but I never say that I am a writer.) At the mention of this he was unlocked. His eyebrows shot up and he said, 'ah I'm 31, I really want to write a book about my life, will you help me'. I said sure and we swapped contact details. He got off the train at the next station and we went our separate ways. That was all in the space of five minutes!
I then spent the day exploring South Bank. My goal was GoMA (Gallery of Modern Art) however I didn't quite get there. I just spent the day wandering, looking, reading, writing, talking to people, living in the moment and absolutely loving it. In a way this has been a meditative time for me. I've had the space and time to really get a hold on living in the present and a renewed energy and enthusiasm for incorporating this into my life as a mother.
Discovering lots of great resources in Brisbane. Firstly a very informative information centre at South Bank with cheap internet access, a great weekend market and an amazing pool/beach area for kids. The amazing Brisbane Arts precinct is also located on South Bank. This includes an impressive collection of acronyms – QPAC (Queensland Performing Arts Centre), GoMA (Brisbane Gallery of Modern Art) and also Queensland Gallery of Art presently showing an impressive anthology of Hats. I also discovered The Edge and new multimedia arts centre which runs workshops and programs in support of media for (I think) young people. Sadly not sure if I still qualify as a young person at 34. I guess I may look back on this comment in 10 years and think how crazy i was not to appreciate being in my early 30's instead of my early 40's! At the moment I am enjoying FREE internet access on beautiful new Macs with lightning quick internet access surrounded by people in their early 20's so I'm feeling a bit over the hill!
I've also discovered the Queensland Writers Centre (QWC) which has recently been relocated to the State Library. Today I went and had a chat and became a member. I'm really excited about being proactive about this thing called 'writing' and surrounding myself with people who can inspire and help me. The QWC run lots of workshops, publish the Australian Writers Marketplace plus a monthly magazine – WQ, run writers festivals and put writers in touch with industry people such as editors and publishers. So I'm really going to make use of this great resource.
I finally made it to the Gallery of Modern Art (affectionately known as GoMA). They had a couple of interesting exhibits but unfortulately most of the place was closed as they're in between exhibits and apparently about to open three more soon.
Right now it's lunch time and maybe I'll catch a bit of arthouse cinema before my course this evening. Ah what a luxury!


text:
Available in our stores starting from 30 May 2017.
They are all total absolute cocoa lovers, crazy of ganache or maybe even compulsive addicts... La Maison du Chocolat published at the Martinière editions, a gallery of 'chocolate emotions' where 40 chocolate enthusiasts explain their complex free addiction.
In this book maliciously illustrated by Serge Bloch, 40 passionate individuals tell with no complex devoured chocolate bars, those hidden in cupboards, the chocolate boost, anti-depression cocoa or even the inspirational artistic ones.
Inès de la Fressange, Sarah Lavoine, Philippe Labro, Apollonia Poilâne, Pierre Hermé, Mélanie Laurent, James Huth… They are writers, actors, creators, chefs, gastronomes, bloggers and share their best « chocolate moments » threw personal experiences, childhood memories, stories, drawings, pictures, some unexpected recipes or Instagram posts…
From gourmet chills to compulsive excitement, we finally found an impertinent book and terribly chic and everyone makes crazy about chocolate!
Book Chocolat, So chic! Editions of La Martinière -
Text : Corinne Decottignies - Illustrations : Serge Bloch


text:
When you think of Acura's luxurious CL model, you probably can't imagine it embarrassing domestic muscle on the street. Even further from your vision of that V-6-powered, low-slung coupe is a rear-wheel-drive-converted, fully built turbo beast complete with 3/4 chassis and wheelie bars. Fortunately, there's no need to spend time conjuring up that fantasy, Thomas Richardson, owner of this 2001 Type-S, has already taken care of the visuals for you.
When we first laid eyes on the CL, it was positioned on the red carpet during Wek'Fest SF a few years ago. A closer look revealed some topnotch fab work, an amazing airbrush flame effect, and what most people would refer to as a "money pit." The wet look of the freshly painted black finish drew showgoers in, and the flat-black components under the hood baffled those looking for the requisite cold-air intake and reservoir sock covers that you'd come to expect from a car show. Furthermore, most had no idea what kind of car they were drooling over. At the end of the day, the sleek, one-off Acura took home Best Engineered and Best of Show accolades. Commendable, especially for a purpose-built race car, but ever since that day, we've kept tabs on the owner and his project in the hopes that we could finally capture the story. Well, here it is...
Richardson's automotive resume doesn't consist of a long list of Honda builds, and in fact, it's quite the opposite. Immersed in the domestic landscape for years, he's had his share of American muscle but grew bored of that scene. He explains, "My introduction to Sport Compact began at WPB Raceway when the NHRA Xplode series was in its heyday. I loved the Modified and ProRWD class, and upon watching the headliners stand toe-to-toe, I was hooked. I found it remarkable that small engines were putting out such high horsepower." So what sparked the idea of using an Acura CL chassis? Well, part of that came from Richardson's street sleeper, a '03 CL with a custom GT35 strapped to the factory J-series powerplant, and an affinity for pushing around domestic cars on the street. He adds, "I would pull along beside Vettes and the Mustang egomaniacs and tempt them. I only lost a few, and the ones I lost were not by much. Many I shut down with that car and people had no idea what it was. It was debadged with no markings other than one Acura emblem. I just thought it would be different to make a Modified car with the CL. The undertaking was expensive , unknown, and intimidating."
Rather than using his streetcar as the guinea pig, Richardson purchased a salvaged title '01 Type-S on eBay and went right to work stripping it down to a bare chassis. Selling the stock, unnecessary parts paid for the cars purchase price, and then some. Of course, the profit made from selling off extra parts was but a drop in the bucket in the grand scheme of things, especially when you consider the sheer number of man-hours dedicated to the custom fabrication.
The original J32 block was reworked, first with AEBS sleeves and then filled with CP pistons and MGP aluminum rods. The cylinder heads have been ported and flowed with a valve-size increase of 1 mm and a Euro cam upgrade backed by custom VTEC eliminator rockers and custom valvesprings and retainers that round out the top end. Heavy boost is provided by a Precision custom 4508r that shoves air through an Accufab 95mm throttle body and one-off manifold, while Tial products and an AMS 1000 oversee boost regulation.
While Richardson was hesitant about the engines ability in the beginning, he assures us that the J-series is making the necessary power, though he admits his ultra-conservative approach may have held back progression. He states, "I decided to build it with an automatic Powerglide. After all was put together and basically wasting a motor on the dyno, I made it down the track. The results were poor and my experience level and conservative approach just slowed me down. Chalk it up to lessons learned." Though Richardson sounds like his own worst critic, his personal best in the CL is an 8.03, a very respectable number for a vehicle that is based solely on trial and error, with no real history to learn from. After multiple gear changes and torque converter adjustments, the car seemed to run out of engine well before the end of the 1320. "After a year and a half of virtually spinning my tires and seeing an 18 percent loss in the drivetrain, I went for it and embarked on the Liberty five-speed install. What a chore that was." After countless micro-adjustments and plenty of patience, Richardson made his way down the track successfully. The learning curve involved with the Liberty unit is daunting, but a task that Richardson has dedicated himself to, and he notes that he's gained some serious insight on starting line procedure and clutches.
As this article is being written, the CL's engine is being freshened up for a new season of testing and if all goes right, competition. The previous management system, when paired with the Liberty transmission, wasn't up to the task at hand, so it was removed in order for James Lin Motorsports to install the new Motec system. When asked about the ultimate goals for the car, Richardson states, "My plans are to spend the rest of the year on the new management system and get some valuable seat time. I have plans later this year to set the car up for NHRA CCAT Comp Eliminator. To do so involves changing the turbo to two 58s and remaking the front end." So much for the conservative approach...
Bolts & Washers
Motec engine management
AEBS sleeves
CP pistons 9.3:1
MGP aluminum rods
ERL machine work/assembly
OEM Euro cam
VTEC eliminator rockers
Custom valvesprings/retainers
Precision custom 4508r turbo
Custom intake manifold
Tial blow-off valve
Tial V60 wastegate
Custom 4-inch downpipe
AMS 1000 boost controller
MSD plug wires
MSD coils
MW Pro Drag 6 ignition box
Waterman fuel pump
Weldon fuel filter
Injector Dynamics injectors
Custom fuel rail
Peterson 4 stage dry-sump
Starlite hoses
Aeromotive regulator
Liberty Extreme 5sp
Titan Engineering Black Star triple disk
Titan Engineering flywheel
Browell bellhousing
Strange Engineering 9-inch differential
Mark Williams driveshaft
Strange Engineering axles
Strange Engineering coilovers
Custom four-link suspension
Custom 3/4 chassis
Strange Engineering four wheel disc brakes
Wheels And Tires
Rear: American Racing Tracstar Lite
Mickey Thompson slicks 33x10.5x15w
Front: Torque Plus Pro
Mickey Thompson tire 25x5x15
Erod Customs & Capone Airbrush Designs
Custom one-piece front end
Custom fiberglass doors
Custom fiberglass trunk lid
Jamie Chassis rollcage
Grant steering wheel
RJ Racecars custom shift mechanism
Owner Specs
James Lin Motorsports for wiring and tuning, Golden Eagle Mfg., ATP Turbo, Jaime Chassis for the chassis build, EROD Custom Paints, Capone Designs Airbrush Studio (the best!), Robbie Miller Race Cars, T1 Performance, Alex Dieguez, Richie Rosado, Damon Chin, Jamie Jr. and Sr., Cole Dow, Jason Hall, Eddie Rodriquez, Alfred Lopez, and the others.
The Resume
Though he's owned a few Hondas along the way, Richardson's car history revolves mainly around some serious domestic muscle. The resume includes: 1966 Chevy Bel Air Station Wagon, 1970 Dodge Charger 440 6-Pack, 1968 Dodge Dart, 426 Hemi Implant, 1969 Dodge Satellite, 426 Hemi implant, 1978 Vega, 1983 Honda CRX Si, 1990 Honda Civic Si, 2001 Acura CL Type S, 2003 Acura CL Type-S six-speed.


text:
Here's the latest article from the Budget Travel site at BellaOnline.com.
Fly Fishing in Canada
I started fly fishing a couple of years ago. I took a few lessons from the local fly fishing shop and became, pardon the pun, "hooked on it". I am always looking for great travel places and if they have good fishing, so much the better. If you fish - check out Canada!
Please visit budgettravel.bellaonline.com for even more great content about Budget Travel.
To participate in free, fun online discussions, this site has a community forum all about Budget Travel located here -
I hope to hear from you sometime soon, either in the forum or in response to this email message. I thrive on your feedback!
Have fun passing this message along to family and friends, because we all love free knowledge!
Jim Fortune, Budget Travel Editor
One of hundreds of sites at BellaOnline.com


text:
What Does This Mean? A Prayer for the Church
Donald Trump will be the 45th president of the United States. Even as I type this, I am in disbelief. I am shocked, and I am saddened about the state of our country. We are a nation divided, and as an African American Christian and millennial, I will just admit that the election of President Obama gave me a false sense of progress towards unity and the fight against inequality. Even in the church, I have been encouraged by the work I've seen from leaders like Russell Moore and the New Baptist Covenant.
The results of Tuesday night revealed the truth for this country and for me. We are as divided as ever. Red and blue, black and white, Christian and Muslim, millennial and baby boomers, urban and rural. And honestly, it's heartbreaking. For me personally, it has challenged my faith in humanity, but if I am honest my faith in the church, as well.
I know God is in control and this result did not catch Him off guard, but I can't help but thinking, "How Long O'Lord?!" I will say what has held me up are my family and friends black and white that have joined me in lament, that have prayed for me, encouraged me, that have sent me verses like Psalms 3:1-8 or reminded me of while Moses' faithfulness in the wilderness only led to two people who started in Egypt entering the promised land. All of these things have helped, but it's still hard when I see prayer requests from teachers about the fear their Latino students are dealing with over their families or from my church members whose kids were in tears last night.
I don't really have words. I just keep remembering my childhood pastor used to say about faith, "faith is acting like God is telling the truth." This election has forced me to examine my own heart and what I truly believe about God. And as a result, I will do a couple of things, despite how I feel. I am choosing to believe God is telling the truth. He cares for me, just as He cares for the Trump supporter, the immigrant, Muslims, and the oppressed. Secondly, I will repent of my own sin, the sin of placing more faith in the ability of politics and public policy to change hearts than the manifestation of the Holy Spirit.
I am re-evaluating what it means to lead and effectively disciple Christ followers when it comes to political engagement. I want God to be glorified even in this.
I will pray for my neighbors — for those who will seek the good of the city, for those who choose to build bridges, and for those who are unwilling to recognize that I too am created in the image of God and have the right to feel safe in the country my ancestors built.
I will pray for unity and diversity, not the fake kind that involves us being in the same room, but not understanding and fighting for one another.
I will pray for those who are grieving and for minorities, millennials, and city-dwellers who voted for Hillary Clinton and are now questioning the witness of the church. They need Jesus, too, and I hate what this result is doing to their perception of the church.
I will pray for the Trump supporter who is experiencing economic anxiety, who felt left behind and for those who are pro-life. I pray that income inequality and abortion will be addressed in President Trump's administration.
I will pray for the Trump supporter that recognized his racist and misogynist rhetoric, but reluctantly pulled the lever for him and now feels judged by their fellow Christians. I pray that you would seek to understand rather than be understood, and I will pray that the Lord will heal the hearts of those whose who now view you with suspicion.
I will pray for President Trump and this nation because it has been illuminating. We are a nation divided, and that division exists even within the church. I pray that this will cause all of us to take a hard look at ourselves and seek to understand the other side. I pray that someday soon we could repent of the sin of racism, sexism, misogyny, Islamophobia, and xenophobia. I pray that God will bring beauty from this brokenness.
I don't have any answers just prayers and the eternal truths of the Word of God.
"… you will not grieve like the rest, who are without hope" (1 Thessalonians 4:13).
"Do not trust in princes, in mortal man, in whom there is no salvation, his spirit departs, he returns to the earth; in that very day his thoughts perish. How blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God" (Psalms 146:3-5).
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9).


text:
While it's easy to consider your property taxes as just another expense that drives up your monthly mortgage payment, they actually have a great deal of value and contribute to many of the services you use every day as a homeowner. If you're about to buy a house in Irvine but aren't knowledgeable about how property taxes work and why they're important, take a look at the article below.
Revenue Stays in Your County
When property taxes are collected from homeowners, the revenue stays within the county in which it's collected and is used by local governments to provide services for county residents. Though the way property tax revenue is distributed varies by county, you can be sure the taxes you pay are being used in your community. It may be used to improve local bridges and water lines, fund local schools, maintain and construct new roads in the community, and pay for police, firefighters, and emergency responders.
Funding for Road Construction and Maintenance
No one wants their community roads to become unsafe and riddled with potholes. Property taxes help fund local road construction and maintenance, including the construction of new residential streets, street cleaning, traffic light installation and repair, fresh asphalt, road markings, and patching potholes.
Funding for Maintenance of Public Lands
Every time you take a stroll down a sidewalk, use public transportation, hike on a recreational trail, or visit a local park, you are most likely enjoying your property taxes at work. Any public lands in the community that aren't funded or owned by the state are paid for with property taxes. This includes sidewalks, trails, public transit, traffic and streetlights, and community parks.
Funding for Schools
In Orange County, an average of 62 percent of a homeowner's property taxes go toward funding public schools. The taxes you pay go directly toward paying teachers' salaries, building and maintaining schools, purchasing new school equipment, and improving school performance. While local school districts also receive state and federal funding, all local school districts in Orange County rely heavily on property tax revenue for support.
Funding for Public Safety and Services
Paying property taxes also helps keep you safe by paying for municipal employees like firefighters, police, and the local public works department. A large chunk of your property taxes pay for salaries and benefits of public safety employees and support personnel, including 911 dispatchers. When a city needs to hire more public safety workers like emergency response, police, and firefighters, it often leads to an increase in property taxes. Taxes are even used to fund hospitals, libraries, and other services you will likely use as a resident.
Tax Deductions
If you itemize your deductions, you can reduce your taxable income by deducting the property taxes you pay on your home. According to the Joint Committee on Taxation, the property tax deduction saves homeowners across the country about $35 billion every year.
When living in Irvine, you can be sure your property taxes are helping make the community an even better place to live. If you're interested in seeing the latest home listings in Irvine, get in touch with reliable local real estate agents at 714-454-6304. We hope to hear from you soon.


text:
- Investor Relations
- Corporate Overview
- Shareholder Materials
- Stock Information
- SEC Filings
- Financial Information
- As Reported Financials
- News & Market Data
- Additional Information
- Investor Relations Site Map
Investor Search
Analyst Coverage
Analyst Coverage
Banner Corporation is followed by the analyst(s) listed below. Please note that any opinions, estimates or forecasts regarding Banner Corporation's performance made by these analysts are theirs alone and do not represent opinions, forecasts or predictions of Banner Corporation or its management. Banner Corporation does not by its reference below imply its endorsement of or concurrence with such information, conclusions or recommendations.
- D.A. Davidson & Co., Jeff Rulis
- FIG Partners, Tim Coffey
- Raymond James, Don Worthington
- Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Jacquelynne Chimera
- Sandler O'Neill & Partners, Tim O'Brien
- Piper Jaffray, Matthew Clark
- Stephens Inc., Tyler Stafford
- Standard & Poor's
Copyright 2020, © S&P Global Market Intelligence Terms of Use


text:
[ The Friday Times (Lahore), 23 May 2014 ; Kashmir Monitor, 26 May 2014 ]
The results of the 2014 elections of the Indian Union parliament are out. In the subcontinent, this has been one of the most watched elections ever. The neighbouring nation-states of the Indian Union, particularly Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka watched these elections closely – given that these nation-states and their names come up in various degrees and forms in the Indian Union's domestic political scene. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its charismatic, divisive leader Narendrabhai Modi, are the two big winners of the election – one will be the party in power and the other will be the prime minister of the Indian Union. The 'Modi wave' is the phrase that has been used to characterize the nature of the results. Here are 10 pointers about the 2014 verdict, within and beyond the 'wave'.
- This is the first time since partition, or for that matter, first time since the 1937 elections, that any party other than the Congress won an absolutely majority of the total number of seats. In the 543 seat lower house of the Indian Union parliament, the number 272 represents an absolute majority. The BJP has won 282 seats. It has won 31% of the all the votes polled, representing a staggering 12.2 % increase in vote share. Though it is the largest non-Congress party ever, in terms of seat number, in terms of vote share, it was bettered by the Janata Party in 1977, which inflicted a crushing defeat on Indira Gandhi's Congress, post-emergency.
- The BJP has benefitted from much its vote being heavily concentrated in the Hindi-belt of the Indian Union. This has resulted in a high number of seats, compared to the vote share. Indeed, for a party winning a majority of seats, this is the lowest vote share since partition. In terms of vote share increases, the BJP has got about 50% more than its last time. While this is impressive, even more impressive are the results of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, the ruling party of Tamil Nadu and the Telengana Rashtra Samithi, the soon-to-be ruling party of Telengana, a new state that was carved out of Andhra Pradesh and its contours similar to the Nizam of Hyderabad's territories in 1948. Both of these parties doubled their vote shares, a 100% increase over the previous parliamentary election.
- This was also the costliest parliamentary election ever, anywhere. That also includes the 2012 US presidential elections, which cost about 2.6 billion US Dollars. By cost, I mean the campaign cost and not the cost of actually organizing the elections. The 2014 Indian Union parliamentary elections saw the candidates and their backers spent 5.2 billion US Dollars. This is a 'conservative' estimate arrived at by the respected weekly Outlook. The official spending limit per constituency (as per the Election Commission of India) is 70 lakh Indian Rupees. The joke is not lost on us. Sadly, the joke is at the people's expense, whose resources have to cough up many times the 5.2 billion dollars to line pockets of entities that invested this astronomical amount in these elections. An important loophole that allows parties to have such huge amounts of unaccounted donations is the rule that parties do not need to divulge the name of donors who pay under 20000 Indian Rupees. Most parties, as a rule, present audit reports, where a huge majority of the fund comes from a large number of small donations from unnamed persons. The Aam Aadmi Party demanded that this rule be changed, so that electoral spending and political funding becomes transparent. BJP and Congress, both opposed it vociferously. The new government is very unlikely to change that. BJP or Congress, certain things remain the same. This is one of them.
- Given that the electoral exercise aims to ensure people's representation, to what extent are the elected legislators 'representative' of the general population is an important question. In a year, an inhabitant of the Indian Union earns roughly 70000 Indian Rupees on average (this is the nominal per capita year income). This utterly poor nation-state will be represented by 442 crorepatis among its 543 members of parliament. The total assets of these 442 newly-minted members of parliament is to the tune of 7850 crore Indian Rupees (source: Association for Democratic Reforms). This is the figure arrived from 'declared' assets. Modi wave, Congress wave – all waves of recent years has had mostly crorepatis riding the waves. This is the richest parliament ever, in a literal economic sense. As a result, this might well be the poorest parliament ever, in every other sense.
- 34% of the members of the 16th Lok Sabha (Indian Union parliament lower house) have declared criminal cases. That is 186 have declared that they have criminal cases against them. Of this186, 112 have cases of very serious nature, like murder, attempt to murder, crimes against women, dacoity, etc. (source: Association for Democratic Reforms). If one were to interview each these 186 proud sons and daughters of Mother India, they would reply that the cases against them are politically motivated, that is, they are false cases. Curiously, most of these cases remain in suspended animation indefinitely. False or not, they do not seem to be too interested in getting their name cleared. The good news is that many members of parliament do not have murder charges against them.
- You can actually start walking from Kolkata in West Bengal and reach Chennai in Tamil Nadu and not pass through any constituency won by the BJP. West Bengal, Orissa, Telengana and Tamil Nadu have voted overwhelmingly for political parties that represent provincial interests. The 'national' parties are marginal players in these large states. You can walk from Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir and reach the eastern end of Bihar or the southern tip of Gujarat and not have to pass through a single non-BJP constituency. If you start from any Congress-won constituency, you don't get very far unless you step into a non-Congress constituency. This election has seriously punctured the Congress claim of having a 'nation-wide' presence. In the Hindi-belt of the Indian Union, the Congress managed to win 7 out of 251 seats. The BJP swept this area, underscoring its reputation as a party of Hindi and Hindustan. The Kishanganj-Goa line that I had referred to in my article in The Friday Times last week has been breached in Karntaka and Assam. Otherwise, the line still is a broad demarcation of the BJP's core sphere of influence.3 out of 4 seats won by the BJP came from the Hindi belt or Gujarat.
- Among major parties, the Trinamool Congress of West Bengal has the largest proportion of female candiadates among their seats won – more than 30%. Uma Soren of the Trinamool Congress is also the poorest winning candidate in this parliament. She has less than 5 lakh Indian Rupees in total assets. 12 out of 60 female members of the just elected parliament, that is 20%, are from West Bengal. This is more than double of proportion of West Bengal population in the Indian Union. Also, this parliament will have more women members of parliament than the last one.
- This is the first time in the Indian Union parliament's lower house that the largest party (BJP) will not have a single Muslim member of parliament. The BJP led pre-poll alliance called the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has won more than half the seats where the proportion of Muslims among the voters in more than 20%. Unless one assumes that a significant proportion of Muslims in Muslim-heavy constituencies voted for the BJP-led alliance, what comes to light is a partial consolidation of non-Muslim votes. Many of these constituencies are in Assam, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, where three, four and even five cornered contests helped the BJP win handsomely.
- The combined vote share of the two 'national' parties, the BJP and the Congress, is 50.3%. The rest of the votes come from parties that did not win seats in more than 2 states, making them 'regional' entities for all practical purposes. The combined vote-share of the 2 big national parties have not significantly changed over 20 years or so, this indicating that the BJP's gain this time came largely from the Congress' collapse.
- Bahujan Samaj Party, the third largest party of the Indian Union in terms of number of votes, did not win a single seat.


text:
Stem cell scientists from the University of Maryland, Baltimore have used bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to treat sheep that had suffered a heart attack. They found that the injected stem cells prevented the heart from deteriorating.
This work was a collaboration between the laboratories of Mark Pittenger, ZhonGjun Wu and Bartley Griffith from the Department of Surgery and the Artificial Organ Laboratory.
After a heart attack, the region of the heart that was deprived of oxygen undergoes cell death and is replaced by a heart scar. However, the region next to the dead cells also undergo problematic changes. The cells in these regions adjacent to dead region must contract more forcibly in order to compensate for the noncontracting dead region. These cells enlarge, but some undergo cell death due to inadequate blood supply. There are other changes that can occur, such as abnormalities in Calcium ion handling and poor contractability.
Thus, the problems that result from a heart attack can spread throughout the heart and cause heart failure. In this experiment, the U of Maryland scientists injected MSCs into the sheep hearts four hours after a heart attack to determine if the stem cells could prevent the region adjacent to the dead heart cells from deteriorating.
In this experiment, bone marrow MSCs were isolated from sheep bone marrow and put through a battery of tests to ensure that they could differentiate into bone, cartilage, and fat. Once the researchers were satisfied that the MSCs were proper MSCs, they induced heart attacks in the sheep, and then injected ~200 million MSCs into the area right next to the region of the heart that died.
After 12 weeks, tissue biopsies from these sheep hearts were taken and examined. Also, the sheep hearts were measured for their heart function and structure.
The sheep that did not receive any MSC injections continued to deteriorate and showed signs of stress. The cells adjacent to the dead region expressed a cadre of genes associated with increased cell stress. Furthermore, there was increased cell death and evidence of scarring in the region adjacent to the death region. There was also evidence of Calcium ion-handling problems in the adjacent tissue and increased cell death.
On the other hand, the hearts of the sheep that had received injections of MSCs into the area adjacent to the dead region showed a reduced expression of those genes associated with increased cell stress. Also, these hearts contracted better than those that had not received stem cell injections. There was also less cell death, less scarring, and no evidence of Calcium ion-handling problems.
Changes that occur in the heart after a heart attack are collectively referred to as "remodeling." Remodeling begins regionally, in those areas near the dead heart cells, but these deleterious changes spread to the rest of the heart, resulting in heart failure. The injections of MSCs into the area next to the dead region clearly prevented remodeling from occurring.
This pre-clinical study is a remarkable study for another reason: the MSCs used in this study were allogeneic. Allogeneic is a fancy way of saying that they did not come from the same animal that suffered the heart attack, but from some other healthy animal. Therefore, the delivery of a donor's MSCs into the heart of a heart attack patient could potentially prevent heart remodeling.
The main problem with this experiment is that the MSCs were injected directly into the heart muscle. In humans, such a procedure requires special equipment and carries potential risks that include perforation of the heart wall, rupture of the heart wall, or further damaging the heart muscle. Therefore, if such a technology could be adapted to a more practical delivery system in humans, then certainly human clinical trials should be forthcoming.
See Yunshan Zhao, et al., "Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation improves regional cardiac remodeling following ovine infarction." Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2012;1:685-95.


text:
Olympus has two new cams in the pipeline according to Let's Go Digital. The waterproof Olympus X560 WP boasts a 10 megapixel sensor, 3x optical zoom, face detection, a high ISO sensitivity, 18 shooting modes and digital image stabilization. The T100, meanwhile, is a starter camera that's apparently aimed at teens, and it's got a 12 megapixel sensor, 3x optical zoom, and face detection. It also shoots VGA video. There's no word on pricing or availability for either yet.
Olympus cranks out two point and shoots: X560 WP and T100
Sponsored Links


text:
- Kinder Institute for Urban Research Advisory Board President
- President, Kinder Foundation
Nancy Goins Kinder is originally from New Iberia, Louisiana, and attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She is a dedicated philanthropist and serves on several boards for the betterment of Houston, the arts and children. She is the founding chairman of Discovery Green Conservancy and remains an ex officio board member of that organization and chairman of the Houston Downtown Park Corporation. She also serves on the board of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and is president of the Kinder Foundation.
The Kinders established the Kinder Foundation in 1997 to support Greater Houston by providing transformational grants to promote urban green space, education and quality of life.
The Kinders are lifetime members of the Kinder Institute for Urban Research advisory board.


text:
Monday, February 11 2019
Well done, Cyril, but move fast. The state capture gang is out to get you
He needs to prosecute the bad apples stinking up his party before the Zuma faction ramps up its efforts to unseat him
Land reform: Here are the 3 plans Cyril's experts are considering
From the pro-market to the 'radical', the models do converge on the idea that it must be led by demand
You can bet the farm on giving land to women, says expert
Rural land reform professor makes a convincing case for 'smallholdings' to Ramaphosa's land advisory panel
From the jaws of a croc: attack survivor finishes Midmar Mile
For 72-year-old Peter Knottenbelt, the swim was proof that he'd finally fought off the croc that attacked him
Are you overpaying? Check right now
Companies are quick to punish consumers for debt, but watch what they do when they owe you
Attorney tries to gag protector on 'dodgy' pension fund deals
Report on Anthony Mostert centres on corruption, extortion and mismanagement at FSCA
'Poisoned' workers raise arsenic alarm at homeopathy plant
Pretoria staff go to court for help, claiming their lives are at risk after inhaling toxic fumes, which factory denies
Can 2010s pop be that bad? Golden oldies rock Millennials
Following the success of the Freddie Mercury biopic, it is clear young people prefer music from before they were born
Dammit, gannet! How they outwit scientists when sardines run out
The boffins thought an easy option would be to harvest waste from fishing vessels. The birds had other ideas
Six things about SA you need to know
Sanef slams minister for blocking media
Huge hunt for escaped detainees
Fraud claim as backers turn on 'Call Me' Makate
Sibanye draws line in the sand
Tau statements about Mashaba defamatory
Survé used PIC's R4.3bn as a piggy bank
Pupils of Hoërskool Driehoek were left shocked and saddened after a walkway collapsed while pupils were returning from assembly on February 1. The collapse claimed the lives of four pupils who were laid to rest last week in Vanderbijlpark. Scores of people supported family and friends as they said their final goodbyes.
He's gotcha by the Pecker! Tabloid's 'blackmail' of Bezos backfires
National Enquirer publisher on the ropes after world's riches man exposes its bid to silence him
A world of good: we all share the same 7 moral codes. Can you guess them?
Despite appearing like Western principles, they transcend continents, religions and politics, a study has found
You couldn't make it up. Or could you? The author who lied about everything
How the unravelling of Daniel Mallory's deception proved to be stranger than fiction
Virtues of necessity: get ready for the 'woke' red carpet season
As awards season heats up, we looks at how the stars will shine a spotlight on their social conscience
6 things you need to know about the world
Blaps forces airliner's mid-trip u-turn
Beer before wine won't make you feel fine
Meet the world's most brainy fish
The wheels come off for Prince Philip
Fornite eclipsed by Apex Legends
Airbnb meets its match in Paris
Cyril's Sona presents a poser for investors and GDP forecasters
While Ramaphosa made all the right noises, scepticism about growth and the ability to turn it linger
Their number's up: proposed law to crack down on auditors
And the provision to search premises and seize evidence is not sitting well with some firms
SA's tough choice: land redistribution or mining investment?
It needs to strike a delicate balance if it is to avoid scaring off foreign investors
Rest and peace: Say bye to bad habits for better beddy-byes
You have to actively plan for a good night's sleep
The cutest cut: plastic surgery for purely selfies reasons
More and more Millennials are requesting surgery that makes them look like their artificially airbrushed selfies
Watch out: Why nothing sucks like high-end luxe
Are exclusive items becoming obsolete as gadgets become more desirable? The answer could well be yes
SPORTS DAY: Breakneck derby screeches to a draw
Your roundup of the sporting news of the day
So, you've got talent, skill and confidence – it's not enough
At 19, Wiaan Mulder has cracked the nod for the Proteas again, but older players could tell him some cautionary tales
Blasts from the past: Helman nets in 1998 Afcon defence
Today in SA sports history: February 11


text:
East Bay
Cade Carter, Clayton Valley Charter
Sport: Football
Position: Tight end, middle linebacker
Class: Senior
Was an impact player on both sides of the line in the Ugly Eagles' thrilling 38-31 double overtime victory over Pittsburg. The Air Force-bound Carter caught two passes for 84 yards, both for touchdowns. Besides a 75-yard reception, he grabbed a 9-yard pass in overtime. Defensively, he had 10 total tackles (eight solo), an interception, and a fumble recovery which he returned 35 yards to set up the game-tying field goal.
Max Schoenberger, Campolindo
Sport: Football
Position: Wide receiver
Class: Senior
Expected to play safety, injuries forced the coaching staff to use Schoenberger on offense. It seems Marin Catholic wasn't prepared for this, considering his 2018 debut consisted of eight catches for 222 yards and four touchdowns. The assault began with a 48-yard TD on the fifth play from scrimmage and also included a 79-yard scamper down the sideline after catching a quick hitch. He added 5- and 44-yard touchdowns in the second half as Campolindo pulled away for a 35-21 victory at home in Moraga.
• Note: South Bay/Peninsula sports do not begin until Thursday, Aug. 23.
How to nominate
To nominate candidates for Athlete of the Week, Highlight Reel and Movin' On Up, email email@example.com by noon Monday.


text:
Within the context of Cuba's economic reforms and implementing the cooperation agreements of the Memorandum of the 33rd Session of Vietnam - Cuba Intergovernmental Committee, a delegation from the Ministry of Construction (MOC) led by its Deputy Minister Le Quang Hung paid a working visit to Cuba, from April 2 to 6/4/2016, with the aim of promoting cooperation on economy, trade and investment between the two countries
The MOC delegation works with Cuban Minister of Construction
During the visit, Deputy Minister Hung had a working sesssion with Cuban Minister of Construction to discuss the implementation of cooperation agreements and contents of cooperation in coming period. At the session, the CEO of Viglacera Corporation (Viglacera) and Chairman of Cuba Geicon (Geicon) reported on the establishment of a joint venture company producing ceramic tiles and sanitary wares in the provinces of San Jose and Santa Cruz Province of Cuba. Two officials asked Viglacera and Geicon to soon complete legal procedures for signing agreements of establishing a joint venture company at the 34th Session of Vietnam - Cuba Intergovernment Committee in Cuba in the last quarter 2016 and supplying products of sanitary ware, ceramic tiles to Cuba market in the first quarter 2017. On the occasion, Viglacera and Geicon also discussed possibilities of investment cooperation to build new glass and sanitaryware factories in Special economic zone Mariel in Cuba. Two officials also witnessed the signing of an agreement on establishing a joint venture between Viglacera and Geicon and agreement on importing and exporting building materials between Viglacera and Cuba's IMECO company.
The opening ceremony International Construction Exhibiton Fair.
The delegation held a meeting with Cuban Deputy Minister of Tourism, during which they discussed the investment cooperation opportunities, the demands in buiding and upgrading hotels in Cuba. They also reviewed the proposals on investment projects between Vietnamese Hanel JSC and its parner Cubanacan as well as a cooperation agreement between Viglacera Corporation and Gran Caribe group.
The officials from MOC also worked with the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment (MINCEX) to review the implementation of agreements that were signed ai the meeting of the 33rd Vietnam - Cuba Intergovernment Committee. At the meeting, both sides agreed on the agenda to boost Vietnamese investment projects in Cuba.
The MOC delegation works with Cuban Deputy Minister of Tourism.
In particular, in the business trip, the MOC delegation attented the International Construction Exhibiton Fair 2016 (FECONS 2016) and the Opening Ceremony of the Viglacera Showroom in La Havana capital. This was the first time the MOC participated in the fair with stands displaying products from Viglacera such as sanitary ware, ceramic tiles, construction glass and accessories.


text:
In the video interview below, Motley Fool CEO Tom Gardner speaks with Middleby (NASDAQ:MIDD) CEO Selim Bassoul. Since becoming CEO in 2000, Bassoul has led a remarkable transformation at Middleby, the cooking equipment maker, turning the stock into a nearly 50-bagger over that time. In the video below, Bassoul discusses the ways his acquisitions are able to succeed with Middleby.
Tom Gardner: What about integration? How can an outside investor follow Middleby and know how to understand how integration is happening? Because that's another problem area for companies that make acquisitions. The cultures are different, the compensation philosophy is different and the attempt to force that business; we had the chief customer officer of Land's End. Land's End was an incredible business, an incredible stock. It was an absolutely incredible stock in the '80s and '90s, and the founder decided to sell the company. And he sold it to Sears and that utterly destroyed Land's End. The culture of Sears crushed the innovation, the love of company that employees had at Land's End, and is not the same company at all today. So I understand management remains in place; that's one thing that keeps that culture intact, but what are you trying to integrate into Middleby and what are you trying to allow to be decentralized in...?
Selim Bassoul: Middleby has been buying a lot of privately held companies, mostly family owned or an entrepreneurial founder. We try to keep the management in place. We don't have people sitting on the bench at Middleby. We're (unclear), so we don't take people from Middleby and turn them over to the new acquisition. If we don't believe that management is capable to stay at that company, we do not buy that company. That's No 1.
No. 2: It's literally a mixture between an IPO and a private equity what Middleby buys. We provide liquidity to that management or to that founder/entrepreneur. Then when they come into us, that company could not have been able to go to China, Brazil, India, Middle East, Mexico, without our infrastructure, so it gives them an access, immediate access to international. In many cases, those companies also have not the ability to build the relation they have with the supplier, given the scale we have, so the first thing becomes another leverage.
No. 3: The most exciting for us is we provide earnout. There's an earnout to make sure that those people retain value as they help us make the money we're going to make as investors into that company, and we leave them autonomy. They continue operating on their own. We leave them getting that patent technology going; however, in many instances they lack credibility within the chains.
The most important -- we'll talk about it later -- is our no-quibble warranty. Now, suddenly, I take a company that has a disruptive technology, that has no ability to get to a Olive Garden or Red Lobster, just because there's no president or VP of operation at an Olive Garden that has 850 stores, that's going to come in and take a company that's $20 million, hasn't been tested and roll it, gives them an order as big as that company is.
And at Middleby, we give that guarantee. We've had a relationship with those customers and they understand. If something was wrong, we're going to stand behind it. We're going to train; we're going to implement it right. We're going to take it overseas, in the case, for example, for Yum! where we take that technology overseas, and we're going to basically train their people, whether it's in India or in China or in the Philippines in our own test kitchen, which a small company could not do.
Middleby is one of Tom Gardner's favorite stocks, but you can never have too many great companies in your portfolio. If you're looking for more ideas, our chief investment officer has selected a different stock as his favorite for this year. Find out which stock it is in the free report: "The Motley Fool's Top Stock for 2013." Just click here to access the report and find out the name of this under-the-radar company.
Middleby is one of Tom Gardner's favorite stocks, but you can never have too many great companies in your portfolio. If you're looking for more ideas, our chief investment officer has selected a different stock as his favorite for this year. Find out which stock it is in the free report: "The Motley Fool's Top Stock for 2013." Just click here to access the report and find out the name of this under-the-radar company.


text:
Slowed Cooked ChiliFrom MonicaNY30 7 years ago
- 2 Lbs ground beef shopping list
- 2 Cans (16oz) kidney beans Rinsed and Drained shopping list
- 2 Cans (14 1/2) diced tomatoes, Undrained shopping list
- 1 1/2 C Sofrito shopping list
- 1 Can (8oz) tomato sauce shopping list
- 1 green pepper, Chopped shopping list
- 2 garlic cloves, minced shopping list
- 2 Med onions, Chopped shopping list
- 2 Tbsp chili powder shopping list
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste shopping list
- 2 tsp Adobo with pepper shopping list
- 2 envelope of Sazón shopping list
- 1 tsp cumin shopping list
- Shredded cheese Optional shopping list
How to make it
- Cook the beef over med heat until no pink no longer: drain. Transfer to a slow cooker. Add the 10 ingredients cover and cook on low for 8-10 hrs or on high heat for 4 hrs. Garnish with sour cream or cheese what ever you desire.
People Who Like This Dish 9
Reviews & Comments 0
- mommyluvs2cook ate it and said... Was this review helpful? Yes Flag
The CookMonicaNY30 Penuelas, Newyork
The Rating1 people
This is spot on in flavor, very good! It only needed a pinch of salt :) I sauteed the onion, bell pepper and garlic with the ground beef, I think it brings out the flavor of them a little more. Used 3 chipotle chilies with the adobo sauce. This h...moremommyluvs2cook in Santa Fe loved it
The Groups
- Not added to any groups yet!


text:
We are away, spending some time in the woods, with family and friends. So here is a short post, with lots of pretty things. These things inspire me and remind me of how special this place and life of ours is. Moving to a new home is such an adventure, one filled with surprises and many discoveries to be made, for both children and adults alike. When spring rolled around, these were the things we discovered.
And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. -Anais Nin


text: DFDG developed the master plan for The St Mark Lutheran Church campus that will be located in South Phoenix. The multi-phase design includes a 600 seat worship space, administration space, classrooms, multipurpose room and gymnasium. For Phase 1, DFDG provided full construction document services for a 2,400 square foot administration addition and plans to renovate the existing 1,300 square foot office into a nursery.


text:
Squad numbers have become a big part of today's game. Fans are more common to get a name and number on the back of a kit they buy for a new season. Some players have built their brands on their squad numbers. Cristiano Ronaldo has become "CR7", the number he wears for club and country. Manchester United is a massive club, and there are some storied numbers that have to be filled for next season.
The number 7 is the most iconic number for Manchester United. Legends like Ronaldo, Beckham, Cantona, and George Best have worn the number on their back. Recently, however, the number has not been well represented. Antonio Valencia tried taking the number, but after having the worst season in his career, went back to his trusty #25. Angel Di Maria, who was bought for a then club record transfer, was given the number. After a horrific time at the club, he was sold to Paris, and the number was vacated again. Up stepped Memphis Depay. Hopes were high for the Dutch international when he signed for the club. He had come off a strong World Cup performance, under the tutelage of then coach Louis Van Gaal. An inconsistent year and a half meant he was shipped off to Lyon. Yet again, there's a vacancy, and there's one man fans want to take the kit: Antoine Griezmann. A transfer rumor since Euro 2016, it would be a perfect fit. Griezmann has admitted in interviews that he wears the number 7 for Atletico Madrid because of his idol, David Beckham. He also honors Beckham by wearing long sleeves every game. The next step should be him taking that same 7 that Beckham helped make famous, and continue the legacy of the number.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is the current holder of the number 9 kit, but it is likely that he will be leaving the club at the end of the season. An ACL tear has ruled him out until January 2018. There is an extension on the table, but it doesn't seem both parties will sign off on it. In that case, the number 9 would be available, and should only go to one man. Anthony Martial started off his United career in the number 9 jersey. He was wonderful, and began to build a brand with the number over the summer. When Ibrahimovic joined, United officials gave him the number 9, and made Martial take the number 11. This became a minor problem, as reports came out that Martial was now unsettled, and felt betrayed by the higher ups. It was dealt with, but Martial has had a poor season, and some believe it could be up to the fiasco earlier in the year. If Ibra leaves, Martial should be given the 9 again. It may not mean anything to some, but it might be a good luck charm for Anthony.
Rooney has worn the #10 kit for over a decade. He's done the number proud, becoming the highest goalscorer in the club's history. However, it is looking quite likely that he will be leaving this summer, opening the #10 for the rest of the squad. However, the coveted number should go to someone United sign over the summer. A majority of the players united are linked with wear the #10 for their current club. James Rodríguez has been constantly linked with United, and he'd be the best candidate to take the jersey. He wears the number for club and country, and is a wonderful attacking midfielder. His creativity and class in the final third will be crucial in helping Manchester score more next season if he joins. Lukaku has also been reported as a main target for Manchester, and he wears the number 10 kit for Everton. Although it is odd for a target man up top to have the #10, it is a number Lukaku cares for. Offering him the number might just be enough to convince him to join the club.
Ryan Giggs wore the number 11 kit from the inaugural Premier League season up until his retirement in 2014. Whoever took the number next would have an incredible amount of pressure heaped on them. In hindsight, giving the number to youngster Adnan Januzaj was too much for him to handle. While he was sent out on loan, Martial took on the number 11 from him. However, if the scenario above plays out, where Martial takes the #9, the #11 would be up in the air yet again. Marcus Rashford started off his United career in the #39, but upgraded to the number 19 kit before the beginning of the season. He should upgrade yet again before next season, and grab the #11 kit with both hands. His speed and directness out wide are so similar to the qualities of Giggs, it would be a perfect match to give him the number Giggs made famous. Although he is still young, fans know that Rashford won't have problems coping with the pressure. He has already scored countless goals in big Europa League games, and scored in crucial league matches vs Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City. He might even be able to wear it longer than Giggs had.


text:
No Foundation Foundation, the first advanced anti-aging, multi-tasking translucent foundation with non-chemical SFP 30 protection. It was created to keep skin looking dewy and flawless, this unique formula delivers many benefits of a traditional foundation without the heavy matte finish, which emphasizes the tiniest skin imperfections. No Foundation Foundation is a multi-purpose product that provides natural translucent coverage, corrects skin undertones, instantly smooths fine lines and boosts skin's natural moisture throughout the day, all the while delivering antioxidant benefits.This is a lovely product for those days when you want to rock a natural look!
Nutritive Cleanser is a facial wash delivering anti-aging benefits by gently removing impurities, makeup and environmental pollution. Nutritive Cleanser is gentle enough to be used daily and thoroughly cleanses the skin and removes all traces of makeup. It washes away impurities without stripping skin of its natural oils. Nutritive Cleanser provides anti-aging benefits and reveals brighter and smoother skin, leaving it looking radiant and perfectly prepared for treatment. This is a lovely product to use before bed right before you moisturise.


text:
Comfortable jersey with functional mesh and BeeCool
Choose colour
Choose size
- Free shipping on orders above 120 EUR
- Easy returns
- Delivery within 3-4 business days
- Durable and stretchable knitted polyester
- BeeCool for dry comfort
- Mesh side panels for ventilation
- Ribbed crew neck for look
- Iconic chevron and logo print
- Quality: 100% polyester
- Fitting: Regular
The TECH MOVE JERSEY L/S comes with hummel® BeeCool treatment to ensure dry comfort throughout even the most intense match. It is made from durable and stretchable, knitted polyester for optimal ease of movement and features a ribbed crew neck and iconic chevron print for a sporty look. Mesh side panels provide enhanced breathability, so your child can perform their best on the field or court.
Item no.. 200048-2006


text:
Positions available at Flyin' Miata
We have very little turnover here at Flyin' Miata. A third of our staff has been here for a decade or more. But occasionally, we need someone new. If you'd like to be considered for a position listed below, please contact Teri.
Sorry, there are no open positions at the moment.


text:
I'm Kevin Purchase, an SEO based in Shropshire. I started my career at a nursing home firm, where I created the website and started generating traffic for it. I then joined 20:20 Mobile (now Brightstar), where I progressed my career quickly, learning my craft from one of the world's most well-known SEO experts.
After 4 and a half years, I wanted a change and went into sports ecommerce, and then briefly back to the mobile phone business. I've spent the last few years working full-time at Siruss, leading all aspects of the digital marketing and SEO side of the business.


text:
August 3-13: Watch Team USA row for gold in Rio de Janeiro.
August 14-28: Grab an oar and learn to row with EBRC!
You, as long as you're 22 or older (USRowing rules). No experience necessary, all fitness levels welcome. EBRC is a community club open to rowers of all sorts; we race competitively at the local and national level, but racing is not required.
Your Learn To Row session will cover boat handling, terminology, and the rowing stroke. You'll do some calisthenics and spend some time on an erg (an indoor rowing machine…although we use them outdoors when weather permits!) to get a feel for the parts of the stroke. You'll take your first strokes from our novice barge, where you'll begin to get comfortable being on the water and handling oars.
Over two weeks, you'll deepen your understanding, have time to interact with current team members during their regular practice times (please ask questions!), and prepare to take out a real training shell.
Your coach for this session is Sara Nevin, head coach for the Mills Cyclones, former collegiate champion rower, and EBRC Board member. Coach Sara brings to our boathouse not only a lifetime of experience, but also a particular passion for introducing novices to the sport.
This Learn To Row session meets for the following dates and times:
Tues., 8/16, 5:20 – 7:30 am
Thur., 8/18, 5:20 – 7:30 am
Sun., 8/21, 8 – 11 am
Tues., 8/23, 5:20 – 7:30 am
Thur., 8/25, 5:20 – 7:30 am
Jack London Aquatic Center,
115 Embarcadero
Oakland, CA 94607
The fee for this 7-session program is $140. The full fee must be paid in advance of the first session. Class size is limited to the first 30 paid registrations.
What to wear and bring:
Comfortable but fitted clothing, hat, socks, sunglasses, and a bottle of water, plus sunscreen for the Sunday practices.
Send an email to firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
About This Week
Find out more about This Week
When is This Week on?
We are on air 35 times a year on Thursday nights live from 11.35pm from the BBC Westminster studio (also used for Daily Politics and some BBC Parliament shows).
Programmes in late 2014 have come from the studio best known for the One Show at New Broadcasting House, while our usual studio is being upgraded for HD broadcasts.
When did the show start
The first episode was in 2003 - most shows have seen Andrew Neil host the panel of Michael Portillo and Diane Abbott.
She left the show in 2010, but later returned to alternate the role with Alan Johnson.
How can I watch?
We are on BBC One from 11.35pm on Thursdays - viewers in Northern Ireland often see the show with a 30-min delay.
It is repeated on BBC Parliament at 10.15pm on Fridays, and also on the iPlayer for 12 months (for UK viewers).
What if I miss those?
Selected clips are on our BBC website, Facebook page and twitter sites. Unlike the iplayer versions, these clips are available outside the UK and should not expire.
Most can be embedded on blogs. Sometimes, material is restricted for copyright reasons. We do not have the resources to provide transcripts of shows.
Can I have/buy a mug?
You are watching the wrong show, and probably thinking of the Daily Politics. This Week offers no prizes or merchandise to buy, steal or win!
How do I make a complaint
If you think we got something wrong, you can start a formal complaint, online, by telephone on 03700 100222 or via a letter to BBC Complaints, PO Box 1922, Darlington, DL3 0UR
Can I come on the show?
People often ask to come on This Week, however most of our guests are politicians, or famous people and we approach them to join us.
Also, we don't have an audience in the tiny studio, but some still ask to come and watch but our studio is not open to the public.
We have had the audience join us at outside venues in London and Edinburgh in 2013 and 2014. We'll talk about dates and venues on-air if we do any more.
What is the format of the show?
We stick to the same format most weeks (not the last one before Christmas or the summer break though).
We start with a film about a big issue of the week by a guest who will then debate it with our panel.
A print or broadcast journalist presents a look at the political headlines of the week with a sketch film, before the panel debate the week's biggest stories.
And we end with our spotlight section, where a famous face debates an item which is often more light-hearted, but sometimes has a serious tone.


text: MOVIES Sundance 2013: CAA 'Regrets' Risque Burlesque Party Performance 7:15 PM PST 1/21/2013 by Matthew Belloni FACEBOOK TWITTER EMAIL ME A dancer with a strap-on male member (obscured by THR) sits on a bed after a performance at the CAA party An event held on Main Street on Sunday night featured at least one sexually explicit dancer. PARK CITY -- On a night packed with talent agency parties, CAA found a racy way to distinguish itself Sunday at Sundance -- though the agency says its invited performers went a little farther than expected. CAA's packed event at the Claim Jumper space on Main Street included a team of barely dressed, pole-shimmying burlesque dancers from Simon Hammerstein's The Act LV, a risque revue based at the Palazzo Hotel in Las Vegas. At least one of them upped the ante by dancing with a strap-on penis, which sources say she used during an extended routine to tease the photo-snapping crowd of CAA clients, film executives and other festival-goers (party guests included Nicole Kidman and Evan Rachel Wood, among others). Two dancers also performed what was described by a source as a simulated sex act on a bed in the party space. PHOTOS: Sundance's Greatest Hits: The Movies That Broke Through Explicit burlesque shows are popular in New York and Los Angeles clubs, but the act was too suggestive for at least one female party-goer, who tells The Hollywood Reporter she was offended and left the event. A source with knowledge of the party planning says the dancers were told in advance to tone down the raunch but didn't. The crowd on the whole apparently didn't seem to mind, though, and the CAA party became a buzzy topic of conversation on a night crowded with rival festivities. "The performance by Simon Hammerstein's The Act LV was more explicit than intended," a CAA rep tells THR. "We regret if this created an uncomfortable setting for any of our guests." Elsewhere on Main Street on Sunday night, WME hosted clients at Wahso, where the crowd didn't die down until about 2:40 a.m. Ain't Them Bodies Saints stars Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara stopped by, as did Mia Wasikowska and Breathe In supporting player Kyle MacLachlan. VIDEOS: Sundance Film Festival 2013: THR's Video Diaries A few doors up the street, UTA held court at the Riverhorse, with clients Lake Bell, Ed Burns and Sundance breakout Mackenzie Davis (Breathe In) joining Toy's House director Jordan Vogt-Roberts -- in a pimp-ish long fur coat -- as well as the festival's John Cooper and Trevor Groth. And at the 449 Main party space, Fox Searchlight feted its two Sundance movies, The East and Stoker, with a gathering that lured Alexander Skarsgard, former Fox chief (and Sundance jury member) Tom Rothman and producer Michael London, among others. Pamela McClintock contributed to this report. FACEBOOK TWITTER EMAIL ME Matthew Belloni firstname.lastname@example.com THRMattBelloni


text:
You are a meticulous planner who loves to plan a trip well in advance. You scour the internet for best hotel deals and cheapest airfares. You even do a thorough research of the place you are going to visit and gather precise details about places of attraction, local eateries, shopping centers, business areas and so on. Be it an office trip or a family vacation, you make sure everything has been planned in advance. However the problem is even after adopting such a careful approach you just can't avoid last minute anxiety. Sleep eludes the night before the trip as you keep worrying whether you have forgotten anything.
If you keep visualizing the 'Home alone' situation till the time you board the flight, pondering over whether burglars going to trample your place, then you are not alone! For fidgety travelers like you, here are five simple tips which need to be followed before leaving home to catch the flight.
Keep Passport and Other Documents Ready
You know how important the passport is and plan to put it in a separate wallet but that never happens. On reaching the airport you realize the passport is not there! To avoid such dreadful situation, put the passport in your purse the night before or keep it next to the door so that you will notice it before leaving. If you have done booking of flight, hotels or cars online then take print-out of confirmation mails in case you fail to access your email while travelling.
Keep Important Phone Numbers Handy
Make sure you have all the phone numbers ready, like emergency numbers, service numbers, your friends' contacts or office numbers, which you might need on reaching the new place. Besides saving the contacts in your mobile, do jot down the numbers in your diary so that you can refer these whenever needed.
Check the Flight Time before Leaving
Don't forget to confirm the flight timing before leaving. In case the flight is delayed you can have some more time to check out the arrangements before leaving. A good idea would be to verify the flight timing from the airline website the night before and double-check a few hours before leaving.
Book a Taxi in Advance
Reaching the airport in time is very important for which you need a reliable transport option. If you don't want to deal with the traffic hassle and reach airport late, then it is always advisable to book a yellow cab or shuttle service in advance. Make sure to book a cab which would pick you up from your specified destination and in specific time. A good idea would be to opt for a local cab company who knows the place well and can follow the shortest route to take you to the airport in time; all these while you enjoy a relaxed back-seat ride.
The above mentioned tips can help save precious time and reduce stress thus making sure you don't have to hurry to board the flight.


text:
Fruit Works Shower Gel Peach +peear 238ml
- This delicate scent lingers gently on your skin, while the moisturizing formulations make it ideal for everyday use
- Scented with our peach and pear fragrance this set is designed to relieve your senses as well as the condition and nourish your skin
- Dominant notes of fresh ripe peaches, hints of juicy apples and pears sitting perfectly with slight floral hints of jasmine and rose
|Basic Product Information
|For Who (Gender)
|Age Group
|How to Use
|External Use
|Why to Use
|Where to Use
|Product Form
|shower gel
|Sub Categories
|Shower Gel
"Delivery & Shipping: When an order is placed, it will be shipped to the address provided at the time of purchase. All of our orders are dispatched within 24 hours of order confirmation and normally delivered within 24 hours with in Bahrain and 2 to 5 days outside Bahrain excluding public holidays and weekends. Our delivery partner will contact you prior to the delivery to confirm availability."
If your online order is over BHD 20 & paid online we will ship your order free of charge in Bahrain. For all other orders in Bahrain a BHD 1.2 => 1.5 shipping fee will apply.
Also we are shipping worldwide.
shipping company of your choice between Aramex and DHL during the checkout process
*Customs charges are bearable by the customer only


text:
Ask any technology expert about the future of artificial intelligence (AI) in travel and they'll breathlessly tell you we're on the verge of a revolution.
They'll describe a world in the not-too-distant future where smart applications can find and book a bargain airfare, manage your trip and troubleshoot any problems that might come up with greater speed and efficiency than any human travel agent.
But ask any traveler to describe their experience with AI, and you might hear a different story: One of struggling to be understood by technology that claims to be smart.
These early days of travel bots that specialize in customer service, chat, messaging and search are a cautionary tale. Technology may be good and getting better, but nothing replaces a person. That's unlikely to change for a while, and maybe ever.
Take my recent experience with Hipmunk, widely praised as the cleverest of the customer-facing AIs. I asked it repeatedly to recommend a cold-weather getaway. Instead, it suggested I book a getaway to Nassau, Bahamas. When asked for an island with lower temperatures, Hipmunk cheerfully changed my itinerary -- to a weekend in balmy Port Au Prince, Haiti.
"I don't think that AI in travel is even remotely usable yet," says Brian Harniman, who founded Brand New Matter, a strategic advisory and venture capital firm that specializes in travel. "It's what people are talking about building in order to sound like they have cutting edge tech."
Hipmunk shouldn't feel bad. In the recent past, social media chatbots have created their own incomprehensible language, spouted expletives and in one memorable case, two Chinese AIs churned out anti-revolutionary statements and had to be taken offline. Several travel chatbots I tested didn't even respond to my repeated text queries. Not knowing the difference between the Bahamas and Iceland is, by comparison, a relatively innocent mistake.
"Every experience I've had has been a total waste of time," says Bruce Sweigert, who works for a travel technology company. "I would love to hear at least one positive anecdote about using artificial intelligence in travel."
I asked travelers to tell me about their great AI experiences, but heard only crickets. Perhaps the they were too busy enjoying their AI-booked vacations.
People in the industry, on the other hand, were downright chatty. They explained that my expectations of the technology, which is still in an early stage, are too high. AI is reasonably good at simple tasks, for now they say.
"It can replace some of the simpler tasks," explains Kayne McGladrey, a computer security consultant in Bellingham, Wash. AI can help plan trips, recommend the least agonizing flight itineraries and handle some of the easier tasks handled by a hotel concierge, like recommending restaurants.
There's a reason why this technology works so well: it's not that new. Applications like "Ask Julie," the Amtrak automated virtual travel assistant, are five years old. Julie can field basic questions about train schedules, but don't get too cute with her. For example, if you ask about how comfortable the trains are, she's likely to respond with, "I'm not sure how to answer that. I understand simple questions best. Can you try asking that in a different way?"
Some of the latest applications can go further. For example, Avianca's new AI, Carla, can confirm itineraries and flight status. For domestic flights in Colombia, passengers can even check-in through Carla using a mobile device. And Booking.com's new booking assistant allows you to get support for your upcoming hotel reservations, including fast responses to your most common stay-related requests, like "What's my check-in time?"
But other chatbots are frustratingly one-dimensional. Ana, Copa Airlines' new web-based chatbot, seems more like a frequently-asked-questions section than an intelligent agent. It "suggests" questions from a pre-written list of queries.
Even insiders admit that the most advanced system is easily foiled. "My Irish accent gets stronger the more frustrated I get," says Conor Brady, chief creative officer of Critical Mass, an experience design agency in New York. "And obviously travel can get stressful. So voice assistants stop understanding me, as I'm yelling into my phone to translate a street name in Hong Kong, or point me in the direction of a decent cup of coffee in Lisbon."
Maybe you can have the best of both worlds. That's the idea behind new apps like Pana (pana.com/) and Lola (lola.com), which combine the best of AI with human agents. For now, letting the technology do the dirty work and allowing human agents to handle the complex stuff seems like the most reasonable course.
The technologists are right: artificial intelligence will change the way you travel. But maybe not in the way they think -- or the way you think.
Where to find good AI in travel
Hopper (hopper.com): Serves personalized suggestions about trips you may be interested in, but haven't explicitly searched or watched, based on your activity in the app -- just like Netflix recommends movies you might like.
Skyscanner (messenger.com/t/skyscanner): A social media chatbot that helps you quickly find a cheap airfare on Facebook Messenger. I found a bargain fare from Seattle to Hong Kong. But you have to be specific, giving it an exact city. It found the least expensive dates to fly.
Carla, The CWT Personal Travel Assistant (cwtcarla.com/CarlaWeChat/): Still in development when I tested it, this AI chatbot for business travel has a lot of potential. It can make smarter recommendations on flight connections and lodgings, plus it memorizes your company's travel policy and your travel preferences.
Read more at: https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/advice/2017/08/27/travel-chatbots-ai/602262001/