Andrew C ready for work in coastal waters.
Cvitanovic towing of Belle Chasse, Louisiana has taken delivery of a fourth vessel for their fleet of highly efficient Lugger-style tugs. Built by Rodriguez Shipyard, Inc. in Bayou LaBatre, Alabama, the 65 by 26-foot, Andrew C, is slightly smaller than the 67.5 by 26-foot Pere C (2011) and George C (2012). Cummins QSK19-M mains power the two larger vessels. The smaller size permitted the Andrew C to take advantage of a pair of Cummins 355 HP QSM11-M main engines for a total of 710 HP. The sturdy engines deliver their propulsion power to Kahlenberg 51×49-inch four-blade propellers through ZF 325 gears with 2.95:1 ratios.
Launch of the Andrew C at Rodriguez Shipbuilding yard.
To service rigs in the extensive delta area of the Mississippi River, the tug is designed with a 5.5-foot shallow-draft. At the same time it has capacities for 10,600 US gallons of fuel oil and 24,300 gallons of water. For cargo transfer there is a Veeder Root discharge meter. A 400 square foot deck space allows for transport of smaller pieces of equipment.
One of the pair of Cummins QSK11-M mains in the Andrew C.
On the company web page, the Cvitanovic family, proudly declare that they serve Plaquemines Parish and coastal Louisiana from the Venice Port Complex just up river from the Head of the Passes. With the addition of the Andrew C to the fleet they have expanded the efficiency of operations.


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Venus v. Mars - again!
On Saturday last, the Irish Times published this photo of two young women mud-wrestling at Glastonbury on its front page.
The following Tuesday, the paper published letters from two female writers who objected to the photo. Then on Wednesday, the paper published three letters from male writers who didn't seem to be offended at all.
Clearly Venus and Mars continue to maintain their independent orbits.
Footnote: Published as a letter in the Irish Times
Britain to reciprocate with Ahern Chair endowment
It's good to see the Government taking steps to create a long-term acknowledgement of Tony Blair's role in the resolution achieved in Northern Ireland.
There is a strong rumour that, in a reciprocal gesture, the British Government will endow a Bertie Ahern Chair of Cash-flow Management in a suitable north side academy of learning?
Posted by mollox at 10:54 AM No comments:
Tony Blair's Legacy - and he hasn't even left yet.
Tony Blair faced his last PMQs on Wednesday and yesterday hosted his final cabinet meeting as Prime Minister. In 10-20 years time, how will political historians assess his term in office? It's far too early to make any definitive assessments, but the medai are already at it so I thought I'd just jump on the bandwagon.
In the immediate aftermath, it's easy to point to Northern Ireland and Iraq as the high and low points respectively, but will there be any other achievement/failure which merits comment in the longer term?
These are just some ramblings on the Blair Legacy - more questions than answers, undera number of broad headings.
New Labour - moving Labour & UK politics to the centre, to be followed there by the conservatives.
New Labour's "3rd way" - "left-wing" social policies funded by "right-wing" economic policies.
A 3-term, longest serving Labour PM, unlikely to be repeated by his successor.
Spin/Relationship with media. Will it even merit a footnote in history?
"Cash for Honours" - will anything stick, or does the public believe they're all at it anyway?
Northern Ireland - peaceful resolution of the constitutional position, probably his greatest political achievement. But will it last 10-20 years? When eventually transition to real Govt/Opposition political structures takes place, will the dam hold? Will NI vote for United Ireland within the next 20 years?
Devolution - Scottish Parliament, Welsh & NI Assemblies. Will these be hailed as examples of devolution of power at its best, or cited as the start of the process that led to the break-up of the UK? Alex Salmon for Head of the Commonwealth?
Education reform- will City Academies be remembered for changing the educational prospects of inner city kids or just be a footnote" in the "cash for honours" chapter?
Reform of Lords - partially complete, will it stall? Will the hereditaries hang on? Will House of Lords reform also be just a footnote in the "cash for honours" chapter?
Economy: a decade of steady growth, growing employment, industrial peace. Will this just be taken for granted, or will all the credit be given to Gordon Browne?
Iraq will be engraved on his tombstone - though he's still probably hoping for a miracle turnaround there which will result in a positive outcome, eventually. Afghanistan may go either way. He'll hope to be gone before Iran comes to a head.
A big fan of the EU, he promised to place the UK at the heart of Europe. Instead, his alliance with Bush may have created a new barrier there. The paradox is that Sarkozy & Merkel might be much more amenable to stronger US ties, in contrast to Chirac and Schroder. Despite his initial desire for sterling to join the Eurozone, it looks further away than ever. And he seems to be ending his premiership doing a Mgt Thatcher at his final EU summit.
3rd World - his Commission for Africa, established in 2004, work in the G8, relief of 3rd world debt, WTO Doha round etc - what long-term impact will these have?
Ditto the Environment and initiatives such as the Kyoto Agreement and successor agreements e.g. G8 summit at Heiligendamm in 2007.
There are many other potential topic areas e.g.
National Security post 9/11, London bombings July 7th 2005
Law & Order/Society - ID cards, ASBOs, CCTV, extended detention
NHS reform
Immigration issues/policy
Zimbabwe, Darfur
How Gerry Adams paid for that Donegal holiday home.
Government saving buyers from sellers!
The Government has published proposed legislation to eliminate all stamp duty liability for first-time buyers, to apply to all contracts signed on or since 31st march 2007.
There will be no change in the stamp duty regime for all other house buyers, who will continue to pay punitive rates of duty e.g. 9% on house/apartment purchases of over €635,000.
Thus Stamp Duty will continue to act as a disincentive to people who wish to trade-up or trade down e.g. it currently adds €58.5k to the buyer's costs for a house/apartment purchased at €650k.
The Government offers the following explanation for not modifying the stamp duty costs to non-first-time buyers:
They argue that the reduction in stamp duty would simply be added to the asking price by the vendor, thus increasing house price inflation and removing any benefit to the buyer arising from the reduction in stamp duty.
In other words, to prevent the risk arising that the vendor might screw the seller for the amount of the stamp duty, the Government itself will guarantee that the buyer continues to be screwed for the amount of the stamp duty. That's some deal!
The reality is that the Government raises billions of euros each year through this punitive tax. They'd have to work harder if they gave some of it up.
Bertie's Missing Money
From The Irish Times today:
"Meanwhile, Mr Ahern's spokesman said yesterday the Taoiseach has instructed his legal team to pursue the €60,000 costs and damages arising from his circuit court libel action against Denis "Starry" O'Brien. The six-year period in which Mr Ahern can claim the damages and costs he won is up on July 11th."
Mr Ahern was awarded £30,000 + costs in the Dublin Circuit Court in July 2001. The money has not been paid to date and the debt becomes statute barred after 6 years.
The spokesman's statement suggests that Mr Ahern's instruction to pursue the debt is a recent one. Presumably Mr Ahern's legal team have long since been paid their appropriate fees, so he's been out of pocket in a real sense for several years now.
What is it with uncollected monies and Bertie Ahern? Is he just forgetful, or too polite, or both?
Despite revelations regarding monies given to prominent FF members, e.g. Ray Burke, Charlie Haughey, Pee Flynn, which the donors claim were intended as donations to the Fianna Fail party, ending up in their private bank accounts, there appears to have been little or no effort to recover these monies on behalf of the party.
Presumably the original purpose of £5,000 NCB donation, included in the recently revealed "dig-out" to Mr Ahern in the early 1990's, will be clarified in due course by the Mahon Tribunal.
Political Banners
Published in Today's IT - the writer is the architect I used almost 20 years ago to remodel the house. He's also a rabid Shinner (note the "a chara" etc). I'm sure he's delighted to score a "hit" on me.
A chara, - Peter Molloy (June 9th) is dismissive of Richard Boyd Barrett's impressive electoral result in Dun Laoghaire, insinuating that Mr Boyd Barrett deceived the "middle classes" by standing for a People Before Profit Alliance rather than the Socialist Workers Party.
I suggest that Mr Boyd Barrett was no more deceptive than those candidates who stood as members of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael rather than a "Profit before People Alliance". - Is mise,
So I've banged off the following response, but I don't expect they'll publish.
Madam - E F Fanning (letters June 16th) justifies the action of the Socialist Workers Party in hiding behind the "People before Profit" banner during the recent general election by claiming that Fianna Fail and Fine Gael might have campaigned under a "Profit before People" banner.
In that scenario, the Sinn Fein banner would be "Pragmatism before Policy", having ditched all their inconvenient tax policies in the weeks before the election. However, the winner would still be the Greens whose banner would proclaim "Pragmatism & Power before Policy & Principle". Yours etc
An Taoiseach mis-speaks, again.
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has a bit of a reputation for mangling the English language. Could he have done it again?
On RTE's 6.1 News on Thursday 14th June, Bryan Dobson interviewed An Taoiseach, in advance of the announcement of his new cabinet.
Towards the end of the interview Dobson asks what the Government's priorities will be for the next 5 years. Bertie Ahern speaks about the economy and finishes on the need to help the less well off in society.
His final sentence in the interview ends with the words "and we'll continue to make great strides to deal with the issue of social exclusiveness".
Could he possibly have meant "social exclusion"?
The 4min 20sec clip is available on www.rte.ie/news/2007/0614/6news_av.html?22588991,null,
Outgoing FF Minister claims authorship of Environment Policy
On RTE's "Today" programme this morning (with Tom McGurk), Dick Roche said that he was proud that only THREE lines of the Environment section of the Programme for Govt had not been written by him! If true, you'd have to wonder what exactly took 10 days to negotiate???
The most interesting thing about the Green Party position is the 180 degree political turn they've managed to perform in the past week.
For 10 days of negotiations, the country was repeatedly assured that getting Green policy in a programme for government was the complete focus and priority. Nothing as tawdry as cabinet seats was even considered.
Once the deal was signed and the paucity of the policy concessions to the Greens was revealed, we were told that having Green Ministers at cabinet to influence Govt was the only thing that actually mattered. The negotiated programme for Govt is almost dismissed by Green TDs as being relatively unimportant.
Correction: I've listened again to the interview and Roche's claim regarding authorship of all but 3 lines related to the Local Government Reform section of the Programme for Government. His claim with regard to ownership of the Environment policy in the Programme for Govt was a more modest 85%.
I'll excuse myself this error on the basis that it was significantly less misleading than FF's 97% v. 3% tax benefit pre-election ads, which were a straightforward, bare-faced and deliberate lie.
Greens - the new Fianna Fail Lite
Trevor Sargent launched an astonishing attack on Enda Kenny in the Dail last night for not looking at the first Inter-Party Government of 1948 as a model of achieving power.
He said that, had Kenny really wanted to achieve power, he would have negotiated with Sinn Féin to form a Government, just as Fine Gael's John A Costelloe had appointed former IRA chief Sean McBride as Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Sargent was effectively saying that the Greens had been willing to sell their souls to the devil in order to get into Govt with FF & PDs. He was mocking Kenny for not having the same naked appetite for power. How quickly the Greens have morphed into FF-Lite
Sargent's outburst clearly shows that the Greens were willing to go to any lengths, compromise any principles, sacrifice any sacred cows etc to get into power.
The Greens are clearly intoxicated by office, behaving like an order of nuns who've unexpectedly discovered sex and can't get enough of it. They'll find themselves holding the FF baby in due course
Greens in office but not in power!
The new Government Ministers haven't even gone to the Park to get their seals of office from the President, but already Fianna Fail are screwing their new Green partners in Government.
Although Green Party president John Gormley has been appointed Minister for the Environment, Heritage & Local Govt, the Taoiseach announced that responsibility for non-National Roads will be transferred from Environment to the Dept. of Transport.
Later it emerged that outgoing FF Environment Minister Dick Roche has today signed the order permitting construction of the M3 Motorway to continue on its original route - straight through the recently discovered pre-historic henge.
Given that re-routing of the M3 was a major platform for the Greens in the recent election, and failure to get this agreed in the joint programme for Government was a major embarrassment for them, this really is FF giving them the two-fingers on their first day in office, but not in power.
PS: 15th June 2007 - incoming Environment Minister John Gormley announces that he doesn't believe he can rescind his predecessor's decision. They're learning - "big boy's games, big boy's rules".
Who'll be next leader of Green Party?
Who'll be the new leader of the Green Party? The front-runners appear to be Gormley, Ryan and Cuffe.
John Gormley has always struck me as the main representative of the flakey wing of the party, but his personal conduct during the recent negotiations (not necessarily his ability as a negotiator) has suggested that he may be calming down to more acceptable and balanced levels.
Eamonn Ryan is another front runner who makes me uncomfortable. In fact, as uncomfortable as he himself appears to be - he twists and squirms as sincerity is given a physical manifestation as he speaks in a voice laden with emotion. But I don't trust him since his solo-run in 2004 when he announced his candidature for the Presidency, without prior consultation with his party colleagues. This smacked of naked personal ambition and was ultimately shot down by the party, merely succeeding in making the Greens look like fools and political novices in the process.
Ciaran Cuffe is touted as another front-runner. He seems like a cold fish, I can't imagine him enthusing members or being a great ad to attract new members. His pre-negotiation blog likening a deal with FF as a deal with the devil was in stark contrast to his pro-coalition attitude at yesterday's Mansion House conference. He strikes me as a charisma-free politician who keeps his cards close to his chest and I wouldn't trust him.
Gormley would probably be the deserving and safe choice, while Ryan might be more dangerous but, with more imagination, could produce innovative ideas and appeal to a younger audience.
Sargent sacrifice a necessary fig-leaf for Greens
By entering government with no concessions on major Green demands - such as an end to hospital co-location, US military use of Shannon, corporate donations, the M3 at Tara - the Green Party has laid itself wide open to the charge of abandoning principles in pursuit of power.
The public self-sacrifice of leader Trevor Sargent was necessary to provide a fig-leaf of principle to an otherwise naked Green Party
Footnote: Aired on RTE's Today programme 14th June & published as a letter in the Irish Times 15th June 2007.
The fate of the man in the white suit?
What was that recent event on Sandymount Strand all about, with the Greens prancing about with their umbrellas, led by John Gormley - The Man in the White Suit?
Is it just the Greens mimicing Jack Vettriano - someone (possibly every Green) has one of his posters on the bedroom wall. Believe it or not, this painting is titled "Mad Dogs" - apt or what? Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery - but this really is "Art Lite".
Or could it be "The Man In The White Suit" a 1951 Ealing Comedy starring Alec Guinness.
Guinness plays Stratton, a researcher working in a textile mill who invents an incredibly strong fibre which repels dirt and never wears out. From its fabric he makes a suit which is brilliant white because it cannot absorb dye. Stratton is lauded as a genius until both management and the trade union realise the consequence of his invention - consumers will only need to purchase once (how many permanently clean white suits would you need?), then demand will drop and put the textile industry out of business. The business owners try to trick Stratton into signing away the rights to his invention but he refuses. Managers and workers try to shut him up, but he escapes.
The climax sees Stratton running through the streets at night in his white suit, pursued by both the managers and the employees. As they close in, the suit begins to fall apart as the chemical structure of the fibre breaks down over time. The mob, realizing that his yarn has a flaw, rips pieces off his suit and he's left standing in his underwear.
In the current political scenario, John Gormley plays the man in the White Suit. Will history repeat itself? Or has he already signed away his rights to the magic formula?
Or is John Gormley modelling himself on former BBC man Martin Bell, "the man in the white suit", who ousted disgraced Conservative MP Neil Hamilton in the 1997 UK General election?
Is it an omen that Bell was defeated in the 2001 election (albeit in a different constituency)?
How hard will it be to keep that white suit clean when you're sitting and supping with the devil? Only time will tell.
Blair to become catholic deacon?
Over the weekend, UK press reports that not only will Tony Blair convert to catholicism when he leaves No 10 but that he also wants to be ordained as a Deacon.
The Blair's catholic cleric was on Andrew Marr's BBC TV programme yesterday morning, he's recently written a book about his own horrific childhood, but he refused to answer any questions about Blair's personal religious leanings or intent. However, he confirmed that a catholic deacon can perform many services including preaching, baptism and marriage but he can't celebrate mass. So if the press reports are correct, Blair could be a busy man post-No.10.
It seems odd that the Prime Minister has to be so coy about his religious beliefs, but perhaps it's not all that surprising.
About a year ago, Blair was explaining that he didn't go to war in Iraq on a mere whim or just to keep in with the USA. He stressed how seriously he had considered the decision, pointing out that it wasn't just the judgement of the court of public opinion or history he had to face, he would ultimately be judged by God for his actions.
Immediately, much of the media and the anti-war brigade jumped on this to ridicule Blair, presenting it as proof that religion and politics don't mix. They deliberately mis-represented what he'd said, twisting it to mean that Blair believed God had given him the nod for the Iraq war.
Which wasn't at all what he'd either said or meant. But it did illustrate how readily the media could and would use any religious utterings by him in order to damage him. Even if he has already converted to catholicism, he's a wise man to keep it quiet till he leaves No 10.
The spin around Blair isn't all one-way!
Chavez - time to Chile out!
After the 1973 overthrow of the Allende regime in Chile, Fernando Flores, his Finance Minister, spent 3 years in jail. After his release he fled to the USA (a strange destination if you believe the CIA coup theory) where he subsequently became a very successful business consultant, his consultancy firm is known as BDA (Business Development Associates). BDA is linked to Billy Glennon's Vision Consultants in Ireland.
About 5 years ago, I attended a private weekend conference in Dublin, hosted by Fernando Flores. It was a very interesting experience, not least because he was probably the most autocratic host speaker/presenter I've ever encountered at many a business conference over the years. He also SEEMED to admit (I don't want to misrepresent him) that the Allende regime had tried to make too many radical changes in too short a time-frame and, with the benefit of hindsight, might well have achieved their goals if their approach had been more pragmatic and less ideological.
He told us that, in the hours after the coup and the death of President Allende, the surviving cabinet members were offered safe passage and a plane to take them to Argentina. This offer was declined because they didn't trust the bona fides of the coup leaders, and subsequently they were told that their plane was to be shot down over the Andes - an unfortunate accident and what outside body would ever investigate the "crash"?.
It's hard not to be sympathetic towards the new left-leaning and reforming regimes in South America e.g. Venezuela, Bolivia, Ecuador, Brazil - but you have to worry that, through natural impatience to achieve social justice and overthrow the ruling elite, some may repeat the mistakes of Chile and fail to achieve the social and democratic change that is necessary.
Postscript: The Chilean Embassy is located in Sandycove and the ambassador's son, Manuel, sometimes works as a lounge-boy in my local. None of yer Ferrero Rocher nonsense there!
One Night in Paris
Paris Hilton - in jail, out of jail, back to jail - the things she'll do to keep her name on the front page!
A couple of years ago she made an explicit sex video with her then boyfriend, which soon became available for sale on the internet, under the title "One Night in Paris".
Apparently this was one of the few things she's done that genuinely upset her parents, as apparently the video was shot in a Marriott hotel room.
How do you get on Pat Kenny's panel?
Anyone know how you get on the "Friday panel" on RTE's "Today with Pat Kenny"?
More specifically, anyone know how Emer O'Kelly gets on it so regularly? Somehow, she also manages to get on Kenny's Late Late Show on tv. Every time I see or hear her pontificating on politics or anything in the real world, I become even more convinced that she knows SFA about most things.
Yesterday was a case in point: she delivered a fluent dissertation about democracy in Russia and the respective roles of Gorbachev and Yeltsin.
Luckily Conor O'Clery was also on the panel and came in straight after her to flatly contradict her analysis. I suspect that, having been Irish Times Moscow correspondent and married to a native Russian, he might actually know something about the topic.
And then there's her accent - what part of Kerry is she from?
Green Party VAT Policy seems misguided
It's beginning to look as if the Fianna Fail talks with the Greens may fail to arrive at a successful conclusion. This will bring the game back to the original FF/PD + Independents model.
There are several points of policy compromise which could prove insurmountable, particularly with the Greens having to get approval for any deal at a convention of their members next Sunday - and the need a 66% vote to approve the deal.
Quite separately, and not something I expect is a problem in the negotiations, one aspect of Green manifesto has puzzled me - the proposed reduction in VAT rates by 1% - supposedly to help the "less well off".
Most family supermarket trolley items are already Zero VAT rated, as are medicines, children's clothing & footwear and books.
A blanket reduction in VAT rates will give most benefit to those who have the greatest discretionary spending capacity, the "less well off" will have very limited spending capacity beyond the staple items.
So such a VAT reduction will certainly put a little more small change in the pockets of the needy.
On the other hand, the big spending Killiney & Dalkey residents ordering their weekly wine deliveries from Mitchells, dining in Cavistons, putting €80 worth of petrol in the Merc, booking the Riviera holidays etc., will be material beneficiaries.
Have I got it wrong?
Boyd Barrett Bullsh1t
In an Opinion piece in today's Irish Times, Richard Boyd Barrett makes a number of substantial claims for his near success in the recent general election, totally ignoring the complete failure of the other handful of candidates running in other constituencies under the "People before Profit" banner.
In response the following letter published in the Irish Times on 9th June 2007:
Madam - Richard Boyd Barrett claims that "against the background of a very poor overall performance for the left, the shock caused by the People Before Profit Alliance in Dún Laoghaire in coming so close to taking a seat may be a small but significant pointer towards a possible way forward."
This assertion would be more credible if Mr Boyd Barrett had made Dún Laoghaire voters aware of his prominent role in the Socialist Workers Party and familiarised them with that party's Marxist economic policy.
I suspect that many middle-class voters in Dún Laoghaire identified Mr Boyd Barrett only with the public baths protest, without knowing of his SWP affiliation, and voted for him on that basis.
Next time he should run with his true colours flying and we can then assess more accurately the appeal of his politics and the effectiveness of the electoral strategy he espouses in his article. Yours etc.
It's Thatcher time
Two brand-new ESB power stations out of action for months, what the hell is going on in that overstaffed, overpaid semi-state company.
Modern state-of-the-art power stations are completely automated, all you need to run one is a computer, a man and a dog
- The computer to run the station
- The man to feed the dog
- The dog to keep the man away from the computer.
And now Brendan Ogle, formerly of train-driver strike fame, is threatening us with power blackouts over proposed changes in the ESB.
It's time to hire Maggie Thatcher to advise on how to break the power of the public service unions.
Dutch blocked air support before Srebrenica massacre.
An abbreviated extract from a Reuters report in today's Irish Times breaking News Section - under the title "Dutch 'blocked' support before Srebrencia massacre"
The Dutch refused crucial air support to their own troops defending Srebrenica under a UN mandate, allowing Bosnian Serb forces to take away and massacre 8,000-10,000 Muslims, it was claimed today. Lawyers representing about 6,000 relatives of the victims of the 1995 Srebrenica massacre, are suing the Dutch state and the United Nations for failing to stop the killings.
During the 1992-95 Bosnian war, Srebrenica was declared a safe area and guarded by a Dutch army unit serving as part of a larger UN force in Bosnia. The lightly armed Dutch soldiers, lacking air support and under fire, were forced to abandon the enclave to Bosnian Serb forces, who then massacred Muslim men and boys who had relied on the protection of the Dutch troops.
"Shortly before the fall of the safe area air support was obstructed by the Netherlands itself," lawyers Axel Hagedorn and Marco Gerritsen said in the writ of summons to be filed at the district court of The Hague.
The Dutch state has always said its troops were abandoned by the UN which gave them no air support, but public documents show a network of Dutch military officials within the UN Protection Force blocked air support because they feared their soldiers could be hit by friendly fire, the lawyers said. "It is a wrong idea that the Dutch soldiers were let down by the United Nations," Mr Gerritsen added.
"It was a decision by high ranking Dutch officers together with the Dutch state to see that requests for air support were denied."
After requests for air support were initially granted by UN officials the Dutch state did everything in its power to reverse this approval.
Who is suing the UN on behalf of the estimated 800,000 victims of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda? Is this the only way that the international community can be shamed into taking effective action against regimes engaged in genocide within their own borders?
Are FF the only party honestly enaged in the current negotiations?
Strange as it may seem, Fianna Fail are the only party honestly engaged in the current negotiations regarding the formation of government. They are displaying their natural pragmatism in pursuit of achievement of their ideological goal: the acquisition of power at any cost. The electorate expects no more or no less from FF.
By contrast, their main negotiation partners are doing political handstands and pirouettes in order to get on the Government bandwagon, freely abandoning core principles and ignoring inconvenient elephants in the corner.
The Greens will readily abandon
- their principled opposition to the use of Shannon Airport by US military
- their strong rejection of the last Government's hospital co-location strategy
- their demand for the banning of corporate donations
- Trevor Sargent's promise to resign as party leader rather than lead the Greens into coalition with FF
The PDs will forget
- their firm commitment to only coalesce with "like-minded parties" and the Greens would not qualify.
- Mary Harney's intention to quit Government in the week before the election, based on revelations from the Mahon Tribunal. The fact that the Tribunal's opening statement for it's current module has raised even more questions for the Taoiseach, and seems to further undermine his latest "full explanations", will have to be ignored in order to ensure survival of the Progressive Democrats.
Thus, any remaining perceived vestiges of PD high principle in politics are shed. Sic transit…….
The Mother Teresa of broadcasting
On RTE's Morning Ireland programme today, one of the presenters expressed surprise that the Dell share price had risen on the news of the proposed job cuts.
Yesterday, Bank of Ireland announced annual profits of €1.96bn, an increase of 28% on the previous year. The share price promptly fell 3%, making a total fall of 14% from its 2007 high.
Both these events illustrate the high expectations and lack of sentiment of investors.
I've often thought that since RTE is a cosseted public service employer, with its employees cushioned from the realities of the real commercial world, the station may not be an appropriate commentator on business or commercial matters in general. They often come across as a broadcasting Mother Teresa, defending the "rights" of the worker or the consumer against the interests of "big business".
RTE thinks that it's performed exceptionally well if it breaks even for the year, profit seems to be something of a dirty word there.
Who'll win Political Gobshite of the Year 2007?
I had thought that John Deasy would be a racing cert for the "Political Gobshite of the Year" award come December.
But Jim McDaid has overtaken him and now leads by a sizeable margin, between his screw-up of the FF election campaign in Donegal and his latest outburst, saying that he may not support Bertie for Taoiseach. "FF did nothing to support me in the election, I don't feel under any obligation to support them".
(Has he been breathalysed?).
McDaid's biggest threat may not come from Deasy, but from Finian McGrath who's making up ground rapidly. The longer the Government formation process takes, the more pirouettes McGrath will be able to perform, each one gaining him multiple PGY points with the public and the media.
Speaking of pirouettes, and factoring in election results, Michael McDowell has to be in with a shout. Only time will tell.
Tony Blair's Legacy - and he hasn't even left yet....
How Gerry Adams paid for that Donegal holiday home...
Outgoing FF Minister claims authorship of Environm...
Dutch blocked air support before Srebrenica massac...
Are FF the only party honestly enaged in the curre...

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You are here: Home / News / World's Second Largest Fashion Collection at The Chicago History Museum Goes Digital
World's Second Largest Fashion Collection at The Chicago History Museum Goes Digital
Filed by Gary Price on July 21, 2012
From ArtDaily.org:
The Chicago History Museum announces the launch of the online Digital Collection which currently features 1,382 digital images representing nearly 400 costumes, accessories, and fashion drawings including all costume materials exhibited in the museum's Charles James, Dior, Bertha Palmer, Chic Chicago, and I Do exhibitions.
Garments by Gianni Versace, Christian Dior, Charles James and Cristóbal Balenciaga headline the content on the Digital Collection. In addition to hundreds of garment and accessory images, the website also features videos of CT scans of garments constructed by designer Charles James and 103 sketches by James' illustrator Antonio Lopez. Images are offered at extremely high resolution with zooming tools allowing users to examine artifacts stitch by stitch. "The digital collections portal offers researchers, students, scholars, designers, and fashion aficionados a significant fashion resource and a rich source of historical information," said Chief Collection Manager, Alison Eisendrath. "The factor that makes this digital collection such a unique and valuable resource is that the artifacts are represented not only by the vibrant digital images, but they are also accompanied by their full catalog record, including detailed information on who wore it, who designed it, and its relationship to fashion history and Chicago history."
With over 50,000 costumes and textile artifacts from the mid-18th century to the present, the Chicago History Museum's Costume Collection is the second largest in the world and one of the nation's most complete fashion repositories.
Direct to the Digital Collection
Chicago's Fashion History on Display - Chicagotalks says:
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import get from 'lodash.get';
import { readFile, removeFile, copyFile } from '../../../support/fileUtil.js';
const __dirname = path.dirname(fileURLToPath(import.meta.url));
const log = intel.getLogger('browsertime.video');

const SCRIPT_PATH = join(
  __dirname,
  '..',
  '..',
  '..',
  '..',
  'browsertime',
  'visualmetrics.py'
);

const PORTABLE_SCRIPT_PATH = join(
  __dirname,
  '..',
  '..',
  '..',
  '..',
  'browsertime',
  'visualmetrics-portable.py'
);

function getScript(options) {
  if (options.visualMetricsPortable) {
    log.info('Use the visual metrics portable script');
    return PORTABLE_SCRIPT_PATH;
  }
  return SCRIPT_PATH;
}

export async function checkDependencies(options) {
  return execa(process.env.PYTHON || 'python', [getScript(options), '--check']);
}
export async function run(
  videoPath,
  imageDirPath,
  elementsFile,
  videoDir,
  index,
  pageNumber,
  visitedPageNumber,
  options
) {
  const filmstripQuality = get(options, 'videoParams.filmstripQuality', 75);
  const createFilmstrip = get(options, 'videoParams.createFilmstrip', true);
  const fullSizeFilmstrip = get(
    options,
    'videoParams.filmstripFullSize',
    false
  );

  const thumbsize = get(options, 'videoParams.thumbsize', 400);

  const scriptArguments = [
    '--video',
    videoPath,
    '--orange',
    '--force',
    '--renderignore',
    5,
    '--json',
    '--viewport',
    '--viewportretries',
    60,
    '--viewportminheight',
    100,
    '--viewportminwidth',
    100
  ];

  if (options.visualMetricsPerceptual) {
    scriptArguments.push('--perceptual');
  }

  if (options.visualMetricsContentful) {
    scriptArguments.push('--contentful');
  }

  // There seems to be a bug with --startwhite that makes VM bail out
  // 11:20:14.950 - Calculating image histograms
  // 11:20:14.951 - No video frames found in /private/var/folders/27/xpnvcsbs0nlfbb4qq397z3rh0000gn/T/vis-cn_JMf
  // 11:20:14.951 - Done calculating histograms
  // Since we tuned the borders of the video, I hope it will just work fine
  // without. If not, let us create a upstream issue
  // If it is the first page and no preURL we can use
  // start white, that gives us less variance in metrics in Chrome
  /*
  if (!options.preURL && visitedPageNumber === 0) {
    scriptArgs.push('--startwhite');
  }
  */
  if (options.visualElements) {
    scriptArguments.push('--herodata', elementsFile);
  }

  if (createFilmstrip) {
    scriptArguments.push('-q', filmstripQuality);
    scriptArguments.unshift('--dir', imageDirPath);
    if (fullSizeFilmstrip) {
      scriptArguments.push('--full');
    } else if (thumbsize !== 400) {
      scriptArguments.push('--thumbsize', thumbsize);
    }
  }

  const visualMetricsLogFile = join(videoDir, index + '.visualmetrics.log');

  scriptArguments.push('--logfile', visualMetricsLogFile);
  if (options.verbose >= 1) {
    scriptArguments.push('-vvvv');
  } else {
    // Full -vvvv is really chatty so keep this level for now.
    scriptArguments.push('-vvv');
  }

  scriptArguments.unshift(getScript(options));

  log.debug('Running visualmetrics.py ' + scriptArguments.join(' '));
  log.info('Get visual metrics from the video');
  try {
    const result = await execa(process.env.PYTHON || 'python', scriptArguments);
    log.debug('visualmetrics.py output:' + result.stdout);
    if (options.verbose < 1) {
      try {
        await removeFile(visualMetricsLogFile);
      } catch {
        log.error(
          'Could not remove the log file from VisualMetrics, does it exist?: %s',
          visualMetricsLogFile
        );
      }
    }
    return JSON.parse(result.stdout);
  } catch (error) {
    log.error('VisualMetrics failed to run', error);
    await copyFile(videoPath, videoPath + '.failed.mp4');

    if (options.visualElements) {
      await copyFile(elementsFile, elementsFile + '.failed.json');
    }

    // If something goes wrong, dump the visual metrics log to our log
    const visualMetricLog = await readFile(visualMetricsLogFile);
    log.error('Log from VisualMetrics: %s', visualMetricLog);
    throw error;
  }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
WORLD-CLASS SERIES
WORLD-CLASS SERIES Latest News
CRITICAL REALISM ABOUT LIVERPOOL FC
150 MILLION VISITORS FROM 2010-2017
Mega-Deal? Klopp sends Liverpool Reps to watch record-breaking €40m playmaker. LFC in pole-position
10/22/2015 04:15:00 pm | Jaimie K
Rumours linking Liverpool with a move for Porto starlet Ruben Neves have intensified this week, and new reports suggest that the Reds are now favourites to seal a deal.
Earlier this month, The Mirror claimed that Neves is one of Jurgen Klopp's 'first transfer targets', and according to The Independent today:
"Liverpool are leading the chase to sign Porto wonderkid Ruben Neves. LFC had sent scouts to watch the player [against Maccabi Tel Aviv on Tuesday]. The Reds are in pole-position to sign the player, who they have been scouting for some time"
Liverpool have been linked with Neves twice before:
OCT 2014: The The Mirror reported: "Liverpool have joined the chase for teenage midfielder Ruben Neves, [who] has been watched three times by the Reds this season"
JAN 2015: The Daily Express claimed that Liverpool were 'weighing up' a £29m bid for Neves.
Some info about Neves:
* Primarily a defensive midfielder. A profile on UEFA.com describes Neves as follows: "Passing precision, vision and astute positioning. Great maturity. Defensive midfielder [but] shows no fear in getting forward, leading attacks and trying to score".
* €40m release clause in his contract, confirmed by Porto in October: "Rúben Neves [has] renewed his contracts...with a release fee of 40 million euros".
* 3 goals/assists in 43 games for Porto.
* 46 apps for various Portugal youth teams.
* Aug 2014: Became Porto's youngest ever goalscorer. After scoring on his debut against Maritimo, Neves told reporters: "It was a dream debut. I'm going to keep this forever and I hope it will be the beginning of a very successful career."
* JUL 2014: Captained Portugal's U17s to the European Championship SF, and was selected as one of the 10 'Talents of the tournament'.
* OCT 2015: Captain Porto against Maccabi Tel Aviv to become the youngest captain in Champions League history.
* Team-mate Cristian Tello's view: "Neves is fantastic with the ball, has great positioning on the field, and is aggressive, with a good job. He plays very much like Sergio Busquets"
Liverpool have dozens of promising youngster at the academy, but very few quality defensive midfielders are on the verge of breaking through. The Reds could definitely benefit from grooming a long-term successor to Lucas Leiva, but €40m for a 18-year old?
That said, the ludicrous fee for Anthony Martial proves that Europe's top clubs are willing to pay through the nose for teenage talents, so anything is possible.
This type of deal doesn't seem to be Klopp's style, though, and there's nothing in his transfer history to suggest he'd splurge such a huge amount of money on a comparatively untested teenager.
Klopp's usual MO is to make superstars out of the club's youth players and/or sign players for pennies and turn them into world-beaters. Indeed, looking at his transfer history, Klopp signed Hummels, Gundogan, Lewandowski, and Kagawa for a combined total of €12m (!)
€12m. Just think about that in the context of the money wasted by Liverpool over the last five years. Actually, don't, as it may plunge you into a pit of inescapable despair.
Author: Jaimie K
← NEWEST NEXT ARTICLE →


Government Contractor Settles Whistleblower's Lawsuit | McCabe Rabin, P.A.
Vector Planning and Services, Inc., doing business as VPSI, has agreed to settle allegations made by a whistleblower in a qui tam complaint that it violated the False Claims Act.
VPSI is a government contractor that provides information technology, systems engineering, program management, and consulting to numerous agencies of the federal government including the U.S. Navy. According to its website, VPSI is based in Chantilly, Virginia with administrative operations in San Diego, California. VPSI reportedly also provides services in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, South Carolina, and Washington State.
According to the complaint filed under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act, VPSI has multiple "sole source" contacts with the Navy to provide information technology and other services. A sole source contract, also called a no-bid contract, is one in which there has been no competitive bidding; rather a specific entity is selected to provide services at a price negotiated with the government.
The whistleblower alleged in the qui tam complaint that VPSI submitted inflated claims for payment of its indirect costs. The government claims that the contracts provided that VPSI could bill the government for its indirect costs that could not be allocated to any particular contract, such as overhead costs. The government alleged that VPSI knowingly submitted inflated bills for its indirect costs during the period 2005 to 2009 in violation of the False Claims Act. Specifically, the complaint alleged that VPSI improperly included claims for its direct costs that had already been paid, or billed for costs that had not been incurred.
The whistleblower, Hai Ba Trung, a former VPSI employee, alleged that VPSI terminated him after he reported VPSI's alleged wrongdoing to the government.
According to the Justice Department, VPSI has agreed to pay $6.5 million to settle the government's and whistleblower's allegations. The whistleblower will receive approximately $1.28 million of the settlement amount as his reward under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act.
The False Claims Act permits private parties to initiate litigation on behalf of the government against individuals or entities who have allegedly committed government fraud. If you know about fraud on the government, click here to see if you may have a case.


text:
package com.intellij.openapi.module;

import com.intellij.openapi.application.Application;
import com.intellij.openapi.application.ApplicationManager;
import com.intellij.openapi.diagnostic.Logger;
import org.jetbrains.annotations.NotNull;
import org.jetbrains.annotations.Nullable;

/**
 * @author yole
 */
public class ModuleServiceManager {
  private static final Logger LOG = Logger.getInstance(ModuleServiceManager.class);

  private ModuleServiceManager() {
  }

  @Nullable
  public static <T> T getService(@NotNull Module module, @NotNull Class<T> serviceClass) {
    //noinspection unchecked
    T instance = (T)module.getPicoContainer().getComponentInstance(serviceClass.getName());
    if (instance == null) {
      instance = module.getComponent(serviceClass);
      if (instance != null) {
        Application app = ApplicationManager.getApplication();
        String message = serviceClass.getName() + " requested as a service, but it is a component - convert it to a service or change call to module.getComponent()";
        if (app.isUnitTestMode()) {
          LOG.error(message);
        }
        else {
          LOG.warn(message);
        }
      }
    }
    return instance;
  }
}


text:
The Lost and Unfinished
Why are we so fascinated by the lost novel? And so intrigued by the unfinished novel?
My theory: Posthumous novels enable us to see vulnerability in the author, as work published after an author has passed ensures us to see the author as is. How did Kerouac write at age 21, before he found success in the 50s? What was David Foster Wallace writing on before he decided to kill himself?
Jack Kerouac's The Sea is my Brother, written in 1943 after his first tour as a Merchant Marine, is raw and his signature fluid style (see: intoxicated) isn't quite there yet. But we can still see origins of the Kerouac we know today, with themes like "the search of spiritual meaning in a materialistic world, spontaneous travel as the true road of freedom, late nights in bars and apartments engaged in intense conversation, the desperate urge to escape from society, and the strange, terrible beauty of loneliness." (Da Capo Press)
The Pale King, the only other novel David Foster worked on after the much acclaimed Infinite Jest, is now out in paperback. On the topic of the IRS and those who work within the IRS, I have long wondered what drew Wallace into the world of taxes, i.e. WHY TAXES? But perhaps this quote from chapter nine of the books offers us a bit of insight: "The tax code, once you get to know it, embodies all the essence of [human] life: greed, politics, power, goodness, charity."


text:
The Blue Danube River Cruise - MS Thomas Hardy
Budapest, Hungary Round-trip
Length: 8 Days - Departs: Fri, Jun 18, 2021
Guaranteed Low Prices
Riviera Cruises
Why Pay Retail? Call us or click for a quick quote and save money!
Diamond Deck Suite (Upper)
Get Lower Price
Diamond Deck (Upper) - Stern Superior Suite
This river cruise qualifies for unpublished pricing. Please call us or Click Here To Get Our Low Price
LOW UNPUBLISHED PRICES ON RIVIERA CRUISES
We have Low Prices on Riviera - Guaranteed!
Save up to $2500 per cabin
Book now and save up to $2500 per cabin on select itineraries. Contact you travel consultant for details, savings amount varies by length of sailing and cabin category selected. (Not all dates may qualify for additional savings.)
Must Book By Wed, Mar 31, 2021
$1,250 per person / $2,500 per cabin available on wide selection of 15-day 2021 and 2022 upper deck cabins and suites
$1,100 per person / $2,200 per cabin available on wide selection of 15-day 2021 and 2022 middle deck cabins and suites
$650 per person / $1,300 per cabin available on wide selection of 15-day 2021 and 2022 lower deck cabins and suites
$1,000 per person / $2,000 per cabin available on wide selection of 8-day 2021 and 2022 upper deck cabins and suites
$900 per person / $800 per cabin available on wide selection of 8-day 2021 and 2022 middle deck cabins and suites
$600 per person / $1,200 per cabin available on wide selection of 8-day 2021 and 2022 lower deck cabins and suites
$750 per person / $1,500 per cabin available on wide selection of 5 and 6-day 2021 and 2022 upper deck cabins and suites
$700 per person / $1,400 per cabin available on wide selection of 5 and 6-day 2021 and 2022 middle deck cabins and suites
$550 per person / $1,100 per cabin available on wide selection of 5 and 6-day 2021 and 2022 lower deck cabins and suites
$400pp non-refundable deposit is required to confirm a reservation. Some exclusions apply
Promotion available on deposited bookings through March 31, 2021.
Save an additional $500 on Europe river cruises
In addition to the fantastic savings of up to $2500 per cabin, you can save up to a further $500 per cabin ($250 for solo cabins).
Applies to new bookings only. This offer is valid on 8 and 15 day cruises departing in 2021 or 2022 that is deposited between January 1 and January 31, 2021. This offer is available for solo clients who book a cabin that has a sole occupancy fee, however it is not applicable to no sole occupancy fee cabins. For exclusive solo traveler sailings, the additional saving is $250 per cabin rather than the $500 per cabin saving mentioned above. Please note that Wave retail promotion is not combinable with Wave group promotion. Additional restrictions apply.
Up to €400 ship-board credit
Free shopping money! Receive up to €400 in ship-board credit on all 8 and 15 day cruise! (€100 per person of ship-board credit on any 8-day European river cruises departing in 2021 and 2022 or €200 per person ship-board credit on any 15-day European river cruises departing in 2021 and 2022.)
Must Book By Sun, Feb 28, 2021
You can enjoy €100 per person of ship-board credit on any 8-day European river cruises departing in 2021 and 2022 or €200 per person ship-board credit on any 15-day European river cruises departing in 2021 and 2022. The ship-board credit can be redeemed against on-board purchases only, including gratuities, however credit cannot be redeemed on gratuities on Douro river cruises. Credit cannot be redeemed in cash and no credit will be given for any credit left unspent at the end of the cruise. To receive the offer, you must book via our reservations team and quote "Ship-Board Credit" during your call. Our reservations team member will apply the credit to the booking accordingly This offer is valid on new bookings only, made by February 28, 2021. This offer cannot be combined with our Wave Group Promotion. This offer can be combined with out Wave Retail Promotion. Short cruises below 8 days duration are not included in this offer.
Stepping aboard you will appreciate the superb surroundings of your floating luxury hotel for the next seven nights with spacious and well-appointed cabins or suites, private bathrooms and meticulously prepared fine cuisine.From Budapest, we slip our moorings and head on our journey north to Esztergom spending the morning exploring its historic centre, which once was Hungary's capital, before continuing westwards to the beautiful old town of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Navigating through Lower Austria we then reach the romantic town of Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned, having been shipwrecked on his return from the crusades. After we visit the remarkable monastery in Melk, with its 200m long Emperor's Gallery, lined with portraits of Austrian emperors.Soon we arrive in Linz where we take the short drive to Salzburg. During the guided tour of the old town we will see the imposing fortress Hohensalzburg towering over the city and of course the birthplace and residence of Mozart, Salzburg's most famous citizen.  On our way back eastwards we will reach classical Vienna, home of Strauss and many great composers. This city offers up so much wonderful architecture as well as a host of other things to see including the Spanish riding school.Finally, cruising into Hungary, we arrive back in imperial Budapest, straddling the picturesque Danube. After a guided tour of this palatial city we spend the evening on board, where the Captain hosts another spectacular dinner, an excellent finale to this most exceptional and relaxing cruise.
EMBARK IN BUDAPEST
Arrive in Budapest, where your five-star floating hotel is moored. The dedicated crew will welcome you on board, ensuring you settle into your comfortable and extremely well-equipped cabin and familiarize yourself with the ship. There is always a sense of expectancy and excitement on the eve of a cruise and after an excellent dinner in the stylish restaurant, conversation is sure to revolve around the delights ahead of you.
Sat, Jun 19, 2021
Overnight we have cruised upstream to Esztergom, one of Hungary's oldest towns, a royal capital during medieval times and today the seat of the country's archbishop. We have a guided tour of the famous neoclassical basilica, standing sentinel over the Danube on the border with Slovakia, and boasting one of the world's largest altarpieces and a wealth of priceless religious artifacts. The castle is also worth exploring; it was the seat of government until the Ottomans invaded in the 16th century.Nestling below are myriad atmospheric churches resonating with the enchanting sounds of choir; this is the best of provincial Hungary and is little changed since Habsburg times. As you enjoy your first lunch on board we gently leave Esztergom in our wake, affording a fascinating opportunity to compare the different landscapes, towns, and villages of Hungary on one river bank and of Slovakia on the other.
Sun, Jun 20, 2021
This morning we explore Slovakia's fast-emerging capital city, Bratislava, on a guided tour. Until recently swathed in the drab uniformity of Communism, the city has rekindled the splendour of its imperial past in its beautifully restored Old Town. Equally impressive is the imposing 17th-century castle commanding expansive views across the Danube.This afternoon we cruise into Lower Austria, a peaceful, bucolic region and home to some of the country's best wines. By now the stresses of everyday life seem distant as you absorb the ever-changing scenes we pass: children playing on the river banks, young couples strolling arm in arm like generations before them, vignerons carefully pruning their vines, and cobbled quaysides lined by half-timbered buildings.You'll marvel as the Captain skilfully navigates the ship along the serene river and through locks whose mechanisms never cease to fascinate, as we cruise towards Dürnstein during dinner.
DÜRNSTEIN & MELK
Mon, Jun 21, 2021
Durnstein is known principally for the ice-blue tower of its abbey, which dominates the view, and the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192 after being shipwrecked on his return from the crusades.This morning we take a guided walking tour to explore this memorable city further. Set on a rocky outcrop high above the river, the castle is now ruined, but it's easy to imagine England's legendary monarch seething with frustration far from home while waiting for his family to raise funds to pay his ransom.After lunch, you visit the remarkable Melk Abbey. Nothing quite prepares you for your first sight of this enormous honey-coloured building, standing resplendent above the surrounding countryside. Originally a castle, it was gifted to the Benedictine Order in the 11th-century and, although reconstructed in Baroque style during the 18th century, it has remained a monastic school and monastery ever since. The Abbey is renowned for its 214-yard-long Emperor's Gallery lined with portraits, many fine rooms, and an ornate library. After we re-join the ship, dinner is served during the final part of our cruise upstream through the pretty Nibelungengau, immortalised in the music of Wagner.
SALZBURG OR LINZ
Reaching Linz, you will have the choice to stay in the city and take a guided walking tour, exploring its charming baroque old town. At its heart you'll see one of the finest squares in Austria, lined by grand pastel-colored facades with an impressive central Trinity Column of white marble, crowned by a gilded sunburst. There's also the fortress-like castle, built high above the city by Emperor Friedrich III, now a museum housing a fine collection of nineteenth and twentieth-century artworks.Alternatively, we drive to Salzburg, once an independent state whose archbishops turned it into one of the most sophisticated cities north of the Alps. Dominating the skyline is one of Europe's largest stone fortresses, the Hohensalzburg, while beneath its walls church domes and spires rise from the delightful Altstadt, or Old Town. Then there's the wonderful Hellbrunn Palace and the splendid formal gardens of the Mirabell Palace – a must for horticulture fans.This morning, discover some of the city's main sights in the company of an expert local guide, then you're free to explore as you wish. Everywhere there are sights associated with the city's most famous resident, Mozart, who played the harpsichord aged three, composed rudimentary music at five and wrote his first opera when he was 11!Please note lunch is not included on this full day excursion to Salzburg; however, the ship will offer a packed lunch. We return to the ship for another splendid dinner.
Wed, Jun 23, 2021
For many, today's visit to Vienna will be one of the highlights of the cruise. The city's very name provokes images of elegance, fine music, wide boulevards, Baroque architecture and a rich tapestry of peoples who were drawn here from all corners of Europe. For 200 years until the First World War, Vienna was the cultural centre of Europe and many of the showpiece buildings, galleries, aristocratic palaces and magnificent churches you see today were built to reflect its imperial status. The city's most iconic monument is the breathtaking Saint Stephen's Cathedral, whose striking multi-colored roof and huge Gothic South Tower dominate the skyline. There's also the colossal Hofburg, the former royal court that is now home to a collection of museums, the Crown Jewels and the Spanish Riding School, and where the Vienna Boys' Choir performs. Then there are the lavish Imperial Apartments and an outstanding collection of relics of the Holy Roman Empire, including, allegedly, the saber of Charlemagne himself. The Kunsthistorisches Museum, which contains the world's fourth largest collection of paintings, is just across the road. This morning we have a tour with a local guide offering insights into why Vienna is one of Europe's great capitals – the seat of the Habsburg emperors and home to some of the world's finest classical composers, including Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart and, of course, a whole family of Strausses.During the afternoon you're free to explore as you wish. Take a stroll in the Prater, notable for the huge Ferris wheel that features in several Cold War spy thrillers. Or, for something quite different, visit the Schönbrunn Palace, a former royal residence now housing a range of world-class museums and galleries. Perhaps, though, just take a stroll through Vienna's atmospheric side streets, or enjoy a coffee and a slice of delicious Sachertorte in one of the lovely coffee houses.This evening we've arranged truly the 'icing on the cake': no visit to Vienna is complete without a live musical experience, so after dinner, we have a classical recital on board. To hear this exquisite music played in the city of its creation makes a wonderful finale to the day.
Enjoy a leisurely morning as we cruise majestically through Hungary's peaceful pastoral landscape towards Budapest.After lunch, we enjoy a sightseeing tour of this captivating city, which truly lives up to its reputation as the 'Pearl of the Danube'. The twin cities of Buda, built around the hilltop fortress, and Pest, with its wide boulevards, were fought over through the centuries. The Ottomans ruled here for 150 years before being ousted in the late 17th century, but their legacy lives on in the many thermal baths fed by hot springs, giving rise to Budapest's other sobriquet – the 'City of Spas'. After the end of Ottoman rule, Budapest became an imperial city of the Habsburg Empire, attracting great cultural and commercial wealth. Castle Hill is Budapest in microcosm: two churches, seven museums, and a theatre among streets and squares with their own special atmosphere and a dramatic view across the river to the awe-inspiring neo-Gothic Parliament Building. Budapest's endless galleries, museums, outstanding Art Nouveau architecture, and excellent shopping offer a fittingly elegant end to your Danube cruise.This evening's Gala Dinner closes with a Hungarian folklore show, giving you time to bid farewell to your traveling companions and reflect on all the inspirational places, sights and sounds you have experienced on a truly 'imperial' cruise.
DISEMBARK IN BUDAPEST
After breakfast this morning, the crew bids you farewell before you disembark the ship.
Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of single cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement. The price includes: Full board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day; if you choose to travel with us on any of the full day excursions by coach, a packed lunch will be provided. Anyone choosing to stay on the ship may of course have lunch in the restaurant	Morning/afternoon tea and coffee	All visits and excursions as mentioned	Coach travel as mentioned	The services of a Riviera River Cruises cruise director and concierge
Health and Safety Protocols for Riviera
Everyone knows that the pandemic has impacted travel plans in recent months, but it's now encouraging to see signs of recovery as countries re-open their borders and aircraft take to the skies. We can't wait to start travelling again and we hope you're looking forward to your forthcoming vacation more than ever.
We rigorously follow the guidance issued by the US Department of State and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You can access the very latest information via the State Department and CDC.
Health and Medication Advice
Please ensure that all medication is packed with your hand luggage and take adequate supplies for the length of your trip. Please check with your airline first to ensure you are compliant with current airport security regulations with regards to medication.
Whilst the travelling schedule on our holidays shall impose no problems for people of any age in normal physical health, we should like to point out that we visit many historical sites and often enjoy walking tours of various places of interest. Some holidays, therefore, may not be suitable for clients of greatly impaired mobility. If you have greatly impaired mobility then please contact us for further advice or click here to read more.
We would request that you bring the name, address and telephone number of your Primary Care Physician as this is usually required by insurance companies if you become ill.
If you have a physical disability or are undergoing medical treatment that may affect your ability to do the tour, and which you have not already informed us about, you must let us know in writing now. We will be able to advise you if the ship is equipped to meet your needs. If you do not inform us, the ship's Captain may refuse passage or your travel insurance may become invalid.
No immunizations are required to travel to European destinations.
You may wish to take a basic first aid kit with you.
Take high-factor sunscreen, a hat and insect repellent if you are travelling in the summer.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): sitting immobile for long periods of time in aircraft, trains or coaches may increase the risk of DVT. Recent major surgery or hip/knee replacement can also increase DVT risk. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, move your ankles and toes and get up and walk around regularly. For more information, see your physician.
It is also advisable to take copies of any regular prescriptions you may take.
If you have any concerns about your health while on the cruise please see your tour manager. They will be able to advise you about pharmacies, drug stores and the availability of doctors.
There will be occasions when the tour manager isn't immediately available and in this case the ship crew should be able to help. In an emergency you could always phone our emergency number as issued on your itinerary.
Riviera Tours Customer Reviews
Ratings based off 0 reviews about Riviera Tours - there were no reviews with comments
Viking Var
Viking Idi
AmaCerto
AffordableTours.com is a travel agent for Riviera. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. Our price reflects our base price for the same departure as Brochure Price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. All prices are USD per person and based on double occupancy. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. All prices change frequently and our website prices are not guaranteed until a deposit has been received by us. The prices on our website are intended to serve as a guide only and may not accurately reflect current prices. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-342-0019 to confirm current prices and availability. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy.


text:
146 Posts In
Douglas Hurst
Douglas J. Hurst is the chairman of Northern Vertex Mining, a Canada-based exploration and development-stage mining company which operates Arizona's largest precious metals mine, the Moss Gold-Silver deposit.
Joel Gandara
Joel Gandara is the CEO and founder of Morro Capital, where they acquire e-commerce businesses, with over 20 brands in their portfolio.
Justin Cochrane
Justin Cochrane is the founder of Carbon Streaming, which provides investors a way to invest in a low carbon future and fight climate change. They offer exposure to carbon credits, a key instrument used by governments and corporations to achieve their climate goals.
Sylvia Hall
Sylvia Hall is a wellness advocate and co-founder of Lifted Naturals, which is one of the top probiotic brands that is carried by major retailers like Walmart.
Richard Carthon
Richard Carthon is a fintech thought leader and a serial software entrepreneur. Richard has gained notoriety from his collaborative approach to challenging the existing practices of startups, small businesses, and established firms. His innovative perspective and meticulous follow-through deliver cutting-edge, simplified solutions that consistently exceed expectations.
Adam Posner
Adam Posner is the Founder and President at NHP Talent Group – a boutique NY-based talent consultancy, specializing in talent access for Senior-level roles within Digital Marketing & Media world. He is also the host of the top global career podcast, ThePOZcast – showcasing experts to help you harness your inner tenacity to drive your life and career forward.
Ivan Bebek
Ivan Bebek is a veteran mining entrepreneur, Chair and Director of Fury Gold Mines, President and CEO of Sombrero Resources and Chair and Director of Tier One Silver.
Anthony Milewski
Anthony Milewski is the Chairman of Nickel 28 – a battery metals focused investment company with a focus on metal streaming and royalty agreements.
Brett Trembly
Brett Trembly is a founder of Get Staffed Up, a virtual assistant staffing company that liberates law firms with incredible offshore talent. He is also the founder of Trembly Law Firm, a business law firm in Miami.


text:
Desertification and Drought Day
2021 Theme: Restoration, Land, Recovery..We build back better with healthy land
The Desertification and Drought Day – until this year known as The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought is a United Nations observance day held on 17 June each year.
Desertification and Drought Day was officially declared by the UN General Assembly as "World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought" (The resolution A/RES/49/115).
It aims to promote public awareness of international efforts to combat desertification. The day is a unique moment to remind everyone that land degradation neutrality is achievable through problem-solving, strong community involvement and co-operation at all levels.
Desertification is the degradation of land in arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas. It is caused primarily by human activities and climatic variations. Desertification does not refer to the expansion of existing deserts. It occurs because dryland ecosystems, which cover over one third of the world's land area, are extremely vulnerable to overexploitation and inappropriate land use. Poverty, political instability, deforestation, overgrazing and bad irrigation practices can all undermine the productivity of the land.
The 2021 Desertification and Drought Day on 17 June will focus on turning degraded land into healthy land. Restoring degraded land brings economic resilience, creates jobs, raises incomes and increases food security. It helps biodiversity to recover. It locks away the atmospheric carbon warming the Earth, slowing climate change. It can also lessen the impacts of climate change and underpin a green recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. LAND is part of the solution.
The goal of the 2021 Desertification and Drought Day (DDD) is to demonstrate that investing
in healthy land as part of a green recovery is a smart economic decision – not just in terms of
creating jobs and rebuilding livelihoods, but in terms of insulating economies from future
crises caused by climate change and nature loss, and accelerating progress on all 17
Sustainable Development Goals. By doing so, DDD aims to drive actions to protect and
restore natural ecosystems as we recover from COVID-19.
Nearly three quarters of the Earth's ice-free land has been transformed, mainly to meet the demand for food, raw materials and human settlement.
Land degradation is negatively impacting the well-being of at least 3.2 billion people.
Land use change is the primary transmission pathway for emerging infectious diseases of humans, over 60% of which are zoonotic.
Nearly one million species are at risk of extinction. Changes in land use is one of the main drivers.
Land degradation is a lost opportunity for massive carbon sequestration. If humans continue to emit greenhouse gases at current rates, global temperature will rise more than 1.5 degrees Celsius target within decades.
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
Established in 1994, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is the sole legally binding international agreement linking environment and development to sustainable land management. The Convention addresses specifically the arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas, known as the drylands, where some of the most vulnerable ecosystems and peoples can be found.
The new UNCCD 2018-2030 Strategic Framework is the most comprehensive global commitment to achieve Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) in order to restore the productivity of vast expanses of degraded land, improve the livelihoods of more than 1.3 billion people, and reduce the impacts of drought on vulnerable populations to build a future that avoids, minimizes, and reverses desertification/land degradation and mitigates the effects of drought in affected areas at all levels ... to achieve a land degradation-neutral world consistent with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Source : United Nations


Most men and women in Sri Lanka are 'reasonable' individuals. Whether they come from remote parts of the country or cities, their foundation of values remains grounded on solid logic, argument and judgment. Whether one's educational background is university or higher, elementary or secondary or no formal education whatsoever, a reasonable man or woman makes reasonable judgments on matters that concern them. Yet, when such matters become a combination (or a concoction) of issues with diverse means and ends, especially when such issues pertain to their DNA or identity, collective judgments gets coloured and shaded by the vagaries of intricate innuendos; they make a deliberate choice to ignore the 'obvious' or in a most convoluted way to look beyond the 'obvious'.
Collective mindset gets warped; its eruptions become explosive and judgments shaded and ostensibly justified. Emerging from this parade of issues, a less educated and an ill-disciplined mind gets warped in contradictions; instead of responding from a rational standpoint, man begins to rationalise a predetermined solution in search of a problem that does not exist.
Nevertheless, one simply cannot disregard the legitimate grievances of the Tamil population in Sri Lanka. Standing amongst those grievances that the Tamils in Sri Lanka, are treated 'differently'. That is a profound complaint and it ought to receive attention from the majority Sinhalese and their elected leaders. Yet, the very numbers, the reality of which I wrote about last week, have given the Sinhalese leaders and their subjects, a notion of legitimacy and strength, a belief of inevitability and fait accompli. Emanating from that cushion, the majority Sinhalese have chosen to treat their Northern brethren as inconsequential. And when that is applied individually it manifests itself in a collective body- the Tamil minority.
When this festering wound was allowed to become gangrenous, one step followed its logical sequential path. Issues that were not addressed by the Sinhalese leaders from the beginning of the Twentieth Century up to the signing of the JR-Gandhi Accord in 1987 coupled with the animosity and antagonisms of the majority Sinhalese Buddhists towards Tamils which were reinforced by a few fringe groups became unmanageable in the latter half of the Twentieth Century.
Arguments of being second class plays a critical role in shaping the mindset of Sri Lankan Tamils. In circumstances where both ethnic groups have to share and lead mixed-lives under one roof, attitudinal change is essential and directly correlated to the physical changes, laws, and legislations Sinhalese leaders have to introduce and implement.
After failing to reach accord in the SWRD-Chelvanayagam and Dudley-Chelvanayagam Pacts, the solitary agreement that both parties, Sinhalese and Tamils, agreed to was endorsed by the JR-Gandhi Accord signed under the most trying conditions in 1987.Devolution of powers to a vast region defined as a 'Province' consisting of five separate districts, Jaffna, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu, Kilinochchi and Mannar, was real and could have been productive had the implementation of all chapters and clauses of the Thirteenth Amendment been adhered to. But powers were withheld by the Central Government via its hold on the line-ministries in the Cabinet. Refusal on the part of the Centre to devolve Land and Police powers to the provinces was the Achilles' heel and the price Sri Lankans paid in blood and flesh is unspeakable.
The gulf between the two ethnic groups got wider and the distrust and suspicions went beyond normal margins. Quite contrary to the accepted proposition of the Thirteenth Amendment, which was the core element of the JR-Gandhi Accord, Prabhakaran continued his murderous struggle, not as a 'freedom fighter', but as a brutal terrorist leader whose arrogance and inability to settle for a compromise knew no frontiers. Instead of countering Prabhakaran's violent thirst for glory and glamour by calling him a terrorist, the civilian Tamil leadership began to feed the Elam fire. What could have been contained within reasonable boundaries was blown out of proportion and the Tamils started fantasising about Elam.
The Sinhalese leadership that governed the country after the JR-Gandhi Accord, starting from Premadasa up to Mahinda Rajapaksa, instead of laying emphasis on the implementation of the Thirteenth Amendment, appointed select committees to look into the problems between the two communities. It was only President Wijetunga who called the Northern problem what it deserved to be called- a terrorist problem. After the Thirteenth Amendment was passed and partially implemented, with the Indian Peace Keeping Forces (IPKF) being greeted with open arms by the Tamils of the North, it was Prabhakaran who unleashed the second, third and fourth Elam wars causing irreparable damage to his own people.
On the part of the Sinhalese leadership after the JR-Gandhi Accord, Premadasa, Chandrika and Mahinda barring Wijetunga, tried to deal with Tamil terrorism separate from the Thirteenth Amendment. In such a scenario, even a reasonable man or woman could be persuaded to adopt a bigoted stance in relation to the issues at hand. And what Prabhakaran preached in the eighties, nineties and the early part of this Century is being bolstered by new calls for federalism by the TNA of today.
Premadasa, Chandrika and Mahinda, I dare say were not wise. Socrates said: "The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing". Wijetunga had that wisdom. Instead of raising false hopes by calling terrorism as what it was, he accomplished at least one major feat. He identified the primary cause of the continuing conflict; Prabhakaran and the LTTE. The Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), as the TNA was called then, was more than willing to endorse the JR-Gandhi Accord. Why not ask the present government for a meaningful discussion on the honest implementation of the Thirteenth Amendment? The ghosts of Mahinda Rajapaksa and his variety of chauvinism must be left in a political graveyard. The Tamil leadership should not be haunted by Rajapaksa ghosts and Bodu Bala Sena thugs.
Noam Chomsky, the celebrated American philosopher, historian and political activist said thus about terrorism: "Everybody's worried about stopping terrorism. Well, there's a really easy way: stop participating in it." The modern day Tamil leadership must be careful when they give expression to their socio-political goals and beliefs.
A bright and intelligent set of leaders should not repeat the historical mistakes of their forerunners. As much as the Republican Party in the United States is suffering the humiliation of having to go to bed with Donald Trump, the Tamil leadership condoned and supported Prabhakaran when the going was good, hoping for 'a place in sun' in Elam. Tales of human folly are many. Condoning violence and terrorism as a means to power is as old as man and his beginnings. But we become alarmed when we have to live through such treacherous times and among treacherous individuals. It is still not too late for the Tamil National Alliance and its leadership to adopt a wiser stance.


text:
Toggle Summary August 10, 2017 Holly Energy Partners to Acquire Remaining Interests in Frontier and SLC Pipelines
DALLAS --(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Holly Energy Partners, L.P. (NYSE:HEP) ("Holly Energy") today announced it has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a 50% interest in Frontier Aspen LLC ("Frontier"), the owner of the Frontier Aspen Pipeline, and a 75% interest in the SLC Pipeline LLC ("SLC"),
Holly Energy Partners to Acquire Remaining Interests in Frontier and SLC Pipelines 20.4 KB
DALLAS --(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Holly Energy Partners, L.P. ("HEP" or the "Partnership") (NYSE:HEP) today reported financial results for the second quarter of 2017. Net income attributable to HEP for the second quarter was $41.3 million ( $0.36 per basic and diluted limited partner unit) compared to
Holly Energy Partners, L.P. Reports Second Quarter Results 63.4 KB
Toggle Summary July 27, 2017 Holly Energy Partners Increases Quarterly Distribution; 51st Consecutive Quarterly Distribution Increase
Increases quarterly distribution to $0.6325 per unit from $0.6200 per unit DALLAS --(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Board of Directors of Holly Energy Partners, L.P. (NYSE:HEP) has declared a cash distribution of $0.6325 per unit for the second quarter of 2017, an 8.1% increase compared to the $0.5850 per
Holly Energy Partners Increases Quarterly Distribution; 51st Consecutive Quarterly Distribution Increase 19.9 KB
DALLAS --(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Holly Energy Partners, L.P. ( NYSE : HEP) (the "Partnership") plans to announce results for its quarter ended June 30, 2017 on August 1, 2017 , before the opening of trading on the NYSE . The Partnership has scheduled a webcast conference on August 1, 2017 at 4:00 p.m.
Holly Energy Partners Second Quarter 2017 Earnings Release and Conference Webcast 12.5 KB
DALLAS --(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Holly Energy Partners, L.P. ("HEP" or the "Partnership") (NYSE:HEP) today reported financial results for the first quarter of 2017. Net income attributable to Holly Energy Partners for the first quarter was $25.6 million ( $0.13 per basic and diluted limited partner unit)
Increases quarterly distribution to $0.6200 per unit from $0.6075 per unit DALLAS --(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Board of Directors of Holly Energy Partners, L.P. (NYSE:HEP) has declared a cash distribution of $0.6200 per unit for the first quarter of 2017, a 7.8% increase compared to the $0.575 per unit
DALLAS --(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Holly Energy Partners, L.P. ( NYSE : HEP) (the "Partnership") plans to announce results for its quarter ended March 31, 2017 on May 2, 2017 , before the opening of trading on the NYSE . The Partnership has scheduled a webcast conference on May 2, 2017 at 4:00 p.m.
DALLAS --(BUSINESS WIRE)-- On February 22, 2017 , Holly Energy Partners, L.P. ( NYSE : HEP) (the "Partnership") filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 . The filing can be viewed through a link on the
Toggle Summary January 26, 2017 Holly Energy Partners Increases Quarterly Distribution; 49th Consecutive Quarterly Distribution Increase
Increases quarterly distribution to $0.6075 per unit from $0.595 per unit DALLAS --(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Board of Directors of Holly Energy Partners, L.P. (NYSE:HEP) has declared a cash distribution of $0.6075 per unit for the fourth quarter of 2016, a 7.5% increase compared to the $0.565 per unit


text:
package com.bluesky.visualprogramming.vm.message;

import java.util.HashSet;
import java.util.Set;
import java.util.concurrent.BlockingQueue;
import java.util.concurrent.CountDownLatch;
import java.util.concurrent.ExecutorService;
import java.util.concurrent.Executors;
import java.util.concurrent.LinkedBlockingQueue;
import java.util.concurrent.TimeUnit;

import org.apache.log4j.Logger;

import com.bluesky.visualprogramming.core.ObjectRepository;
import com.bluesky.visualprogramming.core._Object;
import com.bluesky.visualprogramming.vm.debug.Debugger;

/**
 * manage workers(aka thread to execute code). accept request from any object
 * that need worker.
 *
 * @author jack
 *
 */
public class WorkerService extends ThreadService implements Runnable  {

	static Logger logger = Logger.getLogger(WorkerService.class);
	/**
	 * thread pool that drive every worker.
	 */
	private ExecutorService executorServie;
	/**
	 * awake customers with messages in queue.
	 */
	private BlockingQueue<_Object> customers;

	/**
	 * working workers, will be removed after the work is done
	 */
	private Set<Worker> workers;

	private ObjectRepository objectRepository;
	private PostService postService;
	private Debugger debugger;

	public WorkerService() {

		customers = new LinkedBlockingQueue<_Object>();
		executorServie = Executors.newFixedThreadPool(5);

		workers = new HashSet<Worker>();
	}

	public void setup(ObjectRepository objectRepository,
			PostService postService, Debugger debugger) {
		this.objectRepository = objectRepository;
		this.postService = postService;
		this.debugger = debugger;
	}

	/**
	 * it must be awake, message queue is not empty, and no worker assigned.
	 *
	 * @param obj
	 */
	public synchronized void addCustomer(_Object customer) {

		if (customers.contains(customer))
			throw new RuntimeException("customer is already added.");

		if (customer.hasWorker())
			throw new RuntimeException(
					"customer already has worker, cannot be added.");

		if (logger.isDebugEnabled())
			logger.debug(String.format(
					"customer '%s' is requesting for a worker, wait in queue.",
					customer.getName()));

		try {
			customers.put(customer);
		} catch (InterruptedException e) {
			throw new RuntimeException(e);
		}

	}

	@Override
	public void doTask() throws InterruptedException {

		_Object cust = customers
				.poll(TASK_POLL_TIME_OUT, TimeUnit.MILLISECONDS);

		if (cust != null)
			assign(cust);

	}

	private void assign(_Object cust) {

		if (logger.isDebugEnabled())
			logger.debug("assign worker for " + cust.getName());

		Worker worker = new Worker(objectRepository, this, postService, cust, debugger);

		executorServie.execute(worker);

	}

	@Override
	public void init() {
		name = "WorkerService";
		super.init();
	}

	/**
	 * when work is done, get retired.
	 *
	 * @param worker
	 */
	public synchronized void removeWorker(Worker worker) {
		logger.debug("worker removed");
		workers.remove(worker);
	}

	/**
	 * wait until all workers get paused.
	 */
	public synchronized void pause() {

		// stop the worker threads
		CountDownLatch latch = new CountDownLatch(workers.size());
		for (Worker worker : workers) {
			worker.pause(latch);
		}

		try {
			logger.debug("wait for all workers to pause");
			latch.await();
			logger.debug("all workers are paused");
		} catch (InterruptedException e) {
			throw new RuntimeException(e);
		}

		// stop the main thread of the service
		super.pause();
	}

	public synchronized void resume() {
		super.resume();

		for (Worker worker : workers) {
			worker.resume();
		}

		logger.debug("all workers are resumed");

	}
}


text:
Toyota kirloskar motor
TKM said it made a significant increase in overall performance over the corresponding month last year.
TKM Urban Cruiser Hyryder CNG variants priced at INR 13,23,000, and INR 15,29,000
TKM had earlier announced its foray into the CNG segment with the launch of Toyota Glanza and Urban Cruiser Hyryder in November 2022.
Toyota opens bookings for new Innova Crysta diesel available in 4 grades
The New Innova Crysta now comes with an enhanced front fascia that has been designed keeping in mind the specific preferences for a rugged and robust appearance, thereby meeting the requirements of Indian families, businessmen, corporations, and fleet owners, the company said.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor inducts two new directors on its board
This is part of TKM efforts to strengthen its leadership and reinforce its commitment to producing "mass happiness for all," the company said.
Manasi Tata takes over as Vice Chairperson of Toyota Kirloskar Motor
She will also be the Vice Chairperson of Toyota Kirloskar Auto parts (TKAP). The resolution passed in the TKM board meeting, comes after the untimely demise of her father former Vice Chairman Vikram S. Kirloskar.
Auto Expo 2023: In conversation with Vikram Gulati, Country Head & Executive Vice President Corporate Affairs & Governance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor
Let's hear what Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head & Executive Vice President Corporate Affairs & Governance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has to say about their showcase at Auto Expo 2023Auto Expo 2023: In conversation with Vikram Gulati, Country Head & Executive Vice President Corporate Affairs & Governance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor
Toyota Kirloskar Motor resumes bookings for global brand Hilux
Owing to Hilux's high demand and various factors impacting supply, booking for it was temporarily halted. However, from Monday the order taking has commenced at the dealer outlets and online, TKM said in a media release.
Toyota clocks best yearly sales in a decade in the Indian market
Toyota operates locally in a joint venture with the Kirloskar Group as Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM). It had reported its highest sales at 1,72,241 units in 2012. During the month of December 2022, TKM sold 10,421 units compared with 10,834 units sold in December 2021.
Much awaited Toyota's Innova HyCross priced at Rs 18.30 lakh
The versatile Innova HyCross is a vehicle for every occasion owing to its glamor quotient, advanced technology, comfort, safety, and thrill to drive, making it aptly suited for traveling solo or with friends and family.
Toyota Kirloskar to display sustainable mobility solutions at Auto Expo 2023
The displays will include a diverse range of green technologies, electrified vehicles and. The displays are divided into Technology, Emotional and Environment Zones representing the overall concept and key sections of the stall, the company said.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor opens northern regional stockyard in Haryana
New stockyard at Faruknagar in Haryana promises quicker delivery of vehicles across seven states in North India, the company said.
Toyota expects to clock best-ever sales in India next year driven by demand for new hybrid vehicles
Toyota Kirloskar Motor sold 149,107 vehicles in the local market in the first 11 months of the year. The company had sold 130,76 units in 2021. Apart from local sales, work is also on to begin exports of the Hyryder to West Asia and Africa. If the vehicle is received well by consumers overseas, TKM will explore further opportunities to scale up shipments from India.
Toyota Kirloskar recalls around 1K units of Urban Cruiser Hyryder
In a statement, the company said it has initiated a voluntary recall campaign for certain Urban Cruiser Hyryder units to investigate for a possible issue with front seat belt shoulder height adjuster plate assembly.
Maruti Suzuki may fall short of 20-lakh-units production target this fiscal: Shashank Srivastava
Maruti Suzuki India Chairman RC Bhargava, in his address to shareholders in the company's annual report for 2021-22 had stated that the company will increase its production and will challenge to produce 20 lakh units in the ongoing fiscal with semiconductor availability improving.
Toyota Kirloskar domestic sales dip 9.5% to 11,765 units in Nov
Atul Sood, Associate Vice President, Sales and Strategic Marketing, TKM, said that the company began last month with demand soaring and positive sentiments building towards the unveil of the Innova HyCross.
A 'passionate engineer' and gentle industry leader, Vikram Kirloskar, bids adieu
Gone too early at 64, the indelible impression Kirloskar left on the various avenues of business and life will live beyond him. He will be deeply missed by many people in diverse sectors. ETAuto expresses its deepest condolences to the Kirloskar family, and all associated with him professionally.
Toyota Kirloskar vice chairman Vikram Kirloskar passes away at 64
We are extremely saddened to inform the untimely demise of Vikram S Kirloskar, Vice Chairman, Toyota Kirloskar Motor on 29th November 2022. At this time of grief, we request everyone to pray that his soul rests in peace. Last respect can be paid at Hebbal Crematorium, Bengaluru, at 1 pm on Wednesday, Toyota said.
Reducing taxes on automobiles can boost sector, benefit economy: Vikram Kirloskar
 Although at the moment India cannot afford to slash the tax rate on automobiles drastically, he said a plan to reduce cess on the industry can be looked at considering the sector's contribution to the overall GDP of the country.
Toyota places its bet on strong hybrids in India green push
Customer response to the strong hybrid technology has been 'motivating', Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) managing director and CEO Masakazu Yoshimura told ET, adding that the company would continue to introduce vehicles with green technologies specific to the market and aligned to consumer needs to shore up volumes sustainably in India.
Toyota Kirloskar unveils Innova HyCross; bookings open for INR 50,000
The model is based on Toyota's New Global Architecture (TNGA) and comes powered with TNGA 2.0 Litre 4-cylinder gasoline engine and a monocoque frame with an e-drive sequential shift delivering a max power output of 137 kW (186 PS), providing rapid acceleration and best in segment fuel economy, the company said.


Enables shoppers to get the right size and fit online at apparel retailers. The company was sold to fits.me in 2014.
Product development and production management platform helping brands produce sustainably on-demand domestically with no minimums in approximately 4 weeks.
Marketing platform for interactive retail displays that detects which products customers are touching and respond with digital media to engage consumers, analyze behavior and drive 30- 80% sales lift.
Automated influencer marketing platform that connects brands with influencers to efficiently create, distribute and track quality on-brand content that drives high ROI.
Brings together real stylists and advanced algorithms to personalize and curate online shopping, creating click-to-buy looks which connect brands with shoppers and help users express their own style. The company was acquired by Shopin in 2018.


Did you miss Dr. Lazaris' presentation on Medical Marijuana? COGS would like to thank him for his riveting presentation and also for providing us with this Fact Sheet.
Chocolate and the chocolate serum sure are very delicious and are used in many ways. I like to make designs on the coffee with it and its fun. The https://www.besttermpaper.com/ also talks good about it for sure because it real is the original Americano.