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Planning a Meeting? Why Not in Galveston?

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Planning a Meeting? Why Not in Galveston?

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Most visitors come to Galveston to relax on the beaches, stroll the Strand, maybe visit museums and to dine at some of the island’s most popular restaurants. Yet despite it being a vacation destination, Galveston is also a great place to hold meetings.

And what makes Galveston’s meeting venues particularly unique? Well, what can be more enticing than doing business with sandy shores just a stone’s throw away.

It’s no secret that meeting planners have eyed Galveston’s scenic setting and cooling breezes as a refreshing backdrop to business-as-usual meetings and conventions. Meeting in a vacation destination at a resort can often help ease stress levels and offer more exciting before and after meeting activities as opposed to typical venues.

Between meetings at the Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center, for example, delegates can wander through the adjacent Aquarium Pyramid teeming with aquatic life, or the Rainforest Pyramid with its tropical plants and exotic fish and birds. The hotel facilities offer 103,000 square feet of combined meeting space, including 60,000 within its exhibit hall as well as 15,180 square feet in the Frances Moody Ballroom.

The Galveston Island Convention Center at the San Luis Resort sits adjacent to the beach skirting bustling Seawall Boulevard. The Center has 140,000 square feet of total meeting space including 43,100 square feet in a column-free exhibition hall, 15,500 square feet in the grand ballroom, 29,000 for pre-function space and 12,000 square feet of breakout meeting space. There are more than 700 adjacent hotel rooms, 250 of which are in the San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center which in itself has 40,000 square feet of meeting space.

Both Wyndham properties, the downtown 119-room Tremont House in the Strand District and sister property, the 224-room Hotel Galvez at the Seawall have 15,500 and 25,000 square feet of meeting space, respectively. The Hilton Galveston Island Resort offers 15,000 square feet, while The Grand 1894 Opera House can accommodate groups with 11,000 square feet of space. For small events and meetings, the elegant 1894 Moody Mansion with its stained glass windows is available, particularly for weddings and family events.

Other than the beaches, Galveston has many attractions to keep delegates occupied. The Strand is great for browsing with its boutiques, galleries, shops and restaurants. Just a few of the island’s museums include the Texas Seaport Museum which offers tours of the Tall Ship Elissa berthed alongside the waterfront museum, the Railroad Museum housed in the old Galveston Union Depot and the Mardi Gras Museum, all located within the Strand District or nearby. Galveston’s many historic and Victorian homes including the Menard Home, an 1838 Greek Revival mansion, and the 1839 Samuel May Williams Home offer a glimpse into the city’s cultural history.

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Galveston Capital Tourism and Marketing - Missing the Boat

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Galveston Capital Tourism and Marketing - Missing the Boat

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So you’re visiting an island for the day – maybe enjoying a few cold ones – and lose track of time – OOPS! To the many readers who have asked “will the ship leave without me?” - The answer is a definitive YOU BETCHA! Cruise ships run on a schedule – X-number of hours to dock at the next port, and they stick to it.

The only time Lorraine has seen exceptions to “departure time” is when a ship-approved shore excursion is running late – then there is a wait for passengers to return – otherwise, you need to be prepared to find your own way to the next port. She personally witnessed a group of six or eight late arrivals in Cozumel running down the pier yelling “WAIT! WAIT! COME BACK!” as the ship pulled away –someone from a balcony yelled to them “get a watch!”

Be sure to keep time a priority when ashore – especially when return to the ship involves a “tender” ride. The line for tenders gets longer and longer as the day wears on and while you may think you have plenty of time, you could be in for a rude awakening! The closest Lorraine has come to “missing the boat” was in Costa Maya. She was happily consuming “cold Sols” and did not realize that her watch had stopped - no problem – the port’s time was one hour different than ship’s time. She leisurely browsed the shops –priced-out a Costa Maya condo (like in her dreams) – and returned to the ship at what she thought was an hour before the posted “Guests Onboard” time. There she was on the Lido Deck enjoying a coffee when the ship began to move – OMG! It turns out the port’s time difference was one hour, BUT in the OPPOSITE DIRECTION. Had she not returned when she did, the only way home from Costa Maya (the ship’s final port) would have been a minimum 2 hour cab ride to the nearest regional airport to get a flight to Mexico City to get a flight to Houston. Hullo? her passport was locked in the safe on the ship.

And, once Lorraine and daughter got caught short in Key West – departure time was Midnight and “passengers onboard” was 11:30 – well – at 11:10 we were at the opposite end of Duval Street in some sleazy bar……you have never seen two panicked people move so fast! Then on a later cruise, daughter (with Lorraine as co-conspirator) was frighteningly late returning to the ship in Acapulco!

In retrospect, we laugh about our “near misses” – but at the time, believe me – THEY WERE SCARY!

Have you ever had a “close encounter” or witnessed one? Let Lorraine know – she loves your input!

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Wine Connoisseurs Rejoice! The Galveston Island Food & Wine Festival is back

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Wine Connoisseurs Rejoice! The Galveston Island Food & Wine Festival is back

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Red or white? And what food choice might you prefer with your favorite wines?

These are the questions – no doubt fun decisions to make – facing those who attend the 2017 Galveston Island Food & Wine Festival. This year’s festival, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, May 5-6, will have no shortage of food and wine choices making the above questions very easy to answer.

There will be wines from nearly two dozen vineyards, each with their own varieties and blends. And restaurants from across Galveston and the Greater Houston Area will be serving up hors d’oeuvres for some of the festival’s wine-tasting events that include the following, according to the festival’s website:

·         The Blind Tasting. Guests will swirl, sniff and sip their way through more than 100 red and white wines. Each bottle wears a disguise so attendees must rely solely on their palate to discern the story behind each vintage and vote its attributes. The three top scoring red and white wines from rounds one and two will advance to the Chaine des Rôtisseurs Dinner where one will be named the festival’s Grand Champion.

·         The Premium Tasting. Those attending will taste fine wines from the participating vineyards and indulge in heavy hors d’oeuvres provided by the participating restaurants. This exclusive event is available to a limited number of attendees so purchase tickets early.

·         The Grand Tasting. Dishes will be presented as tapas-style plates as they sip an impressive array of wines. This event includes a souvenir wine glass, event program with complete list of wines, and bottomless samples of more than 100 vintages.

Another event is the Chaine des Rôtisseurs Dinner, where invited guests will blind taste the top three red and three white wines selected during the preliminary blind tasting, to determine the festival’s Grand Champion, Grand Reserve Champion and Reserve Champion. The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is the oldest and largest food and wine society in the world comprised of gourmands, gourmets, gastronomes, chefs, restaurateurs, hoteliers, winery owners and others.

Other activities include a “Meet the Chefs” event, a 5K Run, and pre-festival events yet to be finalized. There’s also a poster contest for artists to create an image for the festival’s official 2017 poster. All entrants must submit a high-resolution digital copy of their work by April 7. The winner will be notified via email on April 14 by 5:00pm. Any two-dimensional media may be used to design the poster.

Promoters and organizers urge those interested to purchase a VIP Premium + Grand Tasting Package Ticket. When purchased together, you will receive entry to the Premium Tasting and early VIP entry into The Grand Tasting, allowing you to skip the lines and have more one-on-one time with the vineyard and restaurant representatives.

VIP Entry begins at 1:00pm on Saturday, May 6th and includes a souvenir wine glass and festival program with full list of featured wines. Separate event ticket prices range from $30 to $156, which covers the Premium and Grand Tasting package. For more information on the poster contest, tickets, event times and venues: http://www.galvestonfoodandwinefestival.com/

Other activities include a “Meet the Chefs” event, a 5K Run, and pre-festival events yet to be finalized. There’s also a poster contest for artists to create an image for the festival’s official 2017 poster. All entrants must submit a high-resolution digital copy of their work by April 7. The winner will be notified via email on April 14 by 5:00pm. Any two-dimensional media may be used to design the poster.

Promoters and organizers urge those interested to purchase a VIP Premium + Grand Tasting Package Ticket. When purchased together, you will receive entry to the Premium Tasting and early VIP entry into The Grand Tasting, allowing you to skip the lines and have more one-on-one time with the vineyard and restaurant representatives.

VIP Entry begins at 1:00pm on Saturday, May 6th and includes a souvenir wine glass and festival program with full list of featured wines. Separate event ticket prices range from $30 to $156, which covers the Premium and Grand Tasting package.

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Galveston Capital Tourism and Marketing - Top Things to Do In Galveston, TX

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Galveston Capital Tourism and Marketing - Top Things to Do In Galveston, TX

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There is no shortage of things to do when you stay at The Tremont House. And they're only a short distance from our Wyndham Grand Hotel. Some of the major annual events include Dickens on the Strand, Mardi Gras, and Lone Star Motorcycle Rally.  Peruse the original work of regional artists at Galveston Arts Center. Treat yourself to a show at Grand 1894 Opera House. Explore the Texas A&M University at Galveston campus where students delve deeply into marine and maritime studies. You can also take a cruise on major lines like Carnival or Royal Caribbean from the Port of Galveston.

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Galveston Capital Tourism and Marketing Seafood Restaurants: 10 Best Restaurant Reviews

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Galveston Capital Tourism and Marketing Seafood Restaurants: 10 Best Restaurant Reviews

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Seafood

Certain restaurants are known for their expertise at turning out signature dishes really well. They've pinned down the ingredients, mastered the process, and gained a strong following as a result. Galveston has had much success cultivating great restaurants and creating a substantial market for Seafood. Locals can't get enough of the city's excellent food, and you'll often find them, along with eager tourists, at popular Gaido's Seafood Restaurant or at Clary's, a major player in the field. Make sure you see what all the fuss is about!

10. CLARY'S

Clary's has a lot to live up to as a seafood restaurant in a coastal city, and this restaurant handles the task beautifully. As one of the finest restaurants in Galveston, seafood or otherwise, Clary's treats diners to scenic bay views and an quality selection of dishes, including a mouthwatering lump crab dish in a velvety cheese sauce. Other all-star dishes are fettuccini Alfredo with crabmeat, broiled flounder, and gumbo (crawfish served seasonally).

9. FISHERMAN'S WHARF

There are no trappings of pretension at Fisherman's Wharf–just great food at a reasonable price. The fried calamari or red snapper dishes are excellent choices, and a wide selection of pasta, beef, and sandwich plates are also available. An extra perk is the restaurant's location on a restored pier where diners can eat outdoors and watch the shrimp boats return home with the day's catch.

8. GAIDO'S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Ever since its opening in 1911, Gaido's has been concerned with freshness and a personal touch. Chefs shuck, peel, and filet by hand, giving each dish the special attention it needs to come out perfect. Garlic snapper, crab cakes, and shrimp bisque are just a few of the succulent menu items diners enjoy. The atmosphere is perfect for a romantic evening or a business dinner.

7. LANDRY'S SEAFOOD HOUSE

Landry's has become a seafood staple in Galveston and all along the Gulf Coast. One of the main reasons is the vast seafood menu comprised of dishes like shrimp Creole, herb-crusted red snapper, broiled flounder, gumbo, clam chowder and grilled mahi mahi. There are plenty of other choices as well, including salads, pastas and steak for the landlubber. Casual and family friendly, the restaurant is great for groups.

6. RUDY & PACO

Rudy & Paco takes traditional seafood staples like flounder and crab and turns them into something special thanks to South American culinary touches. Try crab or shrimp antojitos (appetizers) before moving on to a main dish of seafood, steak, or chicken cooked with Nicaraguan flair. Large and inviting, the restaurant becomes packed on weekends, so make reservations.

5. SALTWATER GRILL

In-the-know locals swarm to this hip restaurant to enjoy stylish seafood prepared in an open kitchen. Always concerned with freshness, the chefs serve a variety of seasonal dishes. Notable selections include grilled yellow fin tuna with chili sauce, "Big Daddy's Gumbo," pan-seared red snapper, and herb-crusted halibut. Homemade desserts are an added plus.

4. WILLIE G'S

Willie G's is an institution in and unto itself and is recognized not only in Galveston but also across the US as a top destination for seafood. Choose spicy blackened snapper for a real treat, or go with an expertly prepared favorite like grilled flounder, gulf shrimp, or a grilled tuna sandwich. Juicy Angus steaks are also available.

3. MARIO'S SEAWALL ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Mario's serves classic Italian dishes like spaghetti and lasagna, as well as great seafood entrees teeming with fresh shrimp, snapper, and crab – but the main draw is pizza. The New York-style pies have kept patrons returning again and again, and now Mario's serves wood-burning gourmet pizzas to tempt a new generation. The restaurant's family atmosphere is great for the entire clan.

2. CAJUN GREEK

Diners can choose a number of tastes at Cajun Greek's to satisfy their palates. The horseshoe-shaped counter welcomes guests who want poboys, boiled crawdads, and catfish as equally as those who desire fresh blackened flounder, gyros, and shrimp Mediterranean. A house specialty is Cajun Greek Snapper, but if you're in the mood for something less adventurous, they also serve a variety of burgers and sandwiches.

1. SALSAS MEXICAN & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Crave no further if you want authentic Mexican cuisine or Mexican cuisine with a twist. Diners at Salsas Mexican & Seafood Restaurant can choose a traditional dish like beef fajitas and enchiladas or go "coastal" with a shrimp fajita or fish taco. On the lighter side, the restaurant serves a "Gringo Salad"–that's without the shell–and a just-right shrimp cocktail. After work, the margaritas flow freely and the patio fills with happy hour regulars.

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The Lexus Group Enthusiast - 'Yet' Philosophy Inspires Lexus Design Award 2017 Finalists, Announced Today

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The Lexus Group Enthusiast - 'Yet' Philosophy Inspires Lexus Design Award 2017 Finalists, Announced Today

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Finalist Selection Marks First Time US Designers Advance to Final Round

NEW YORK, Jan. 31, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Lexus International today announced the 12 finalists for the Lexus Design Award 2017.  3 finalists based in the USA were selected, marking the first time designers from this region have advanced to the final round. First launched in 2013 to help stimulate the ideas necessary to build a better tomorrow, Lexus is celebrating the 5th anniversary of this international design competition that supports up-and-coming designers and creators worldwide. Lexus Design Award 2017 drew 1,152 entries from 63 countries under the theme of "Yet."

As the philosophical soul of Lexus innovation, "Yet" is particularly appropriate for the 5thanniversary of this Lexus event. "Yet" inspires us to find synergy effects by fusing seemingly incompatible goals – spacious yet aerodynamic design – for example. By harmonizing contradictory elements, "Yet" opens up visionary frontiers of progressive design and technology to deliver amazing, new experiences to the world.

In November 2016, a panel of world-renowned designers and creative mentors gathered to judge the entries. After rigorous evaluation and extensive discussion, the judges chose 12 finalists.

Out of these 12 finalists, the following four were selected to prototype their designs, mentored by globally recognized creators.

• Structural Color- Static Yet Changing, Jessica Fügler (USA)

Static YET Changeable structure depending on viewpoint.

• Having nothing, and yet possessing everything., Ahran Won (Korea, USA-based)

A capsule for mobile living, Having nothing YET Everything.

• PIXEL, Hiroto Yoshizoe (Japan)

A structure to experience the existence of Light YET Shadow.

• Player's Pflute, Jia Wu (China)

Vegetable YET a Musical instrument provides fun and learning experience.

To provide creative guidance to the above four finalists, Lexus Design Award 2017 has enlisted four renowned mentors: architects and interdisciplinary designers Neri & Hu, designer Max Lamb, designer/architect Elena Manferdini and artist/architect Snarkitecture. All served as mentors to last year's finalists, as well.

The four completed prototypes will be featured as part of the Lexus exhibition at this year's Milan Design Week, along with presentation boards introducing the other eight finalists' designs. The event will run from April 3 (press and award presentation day) through April 9. On April 3, the finalists will present their designs to the judges and international media. The judges will evaluate the four prototypes and announce the Grand Prix winner, marking the climax of the Lexus Design Award 2017 award cycle.

More information and pictures can be found on:

Lexus Design Award website: www.lexusdesignaward.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lexusdesignaward/   @lexusdesignaward

Official hashtags:#LexusDesignAward; #MilanDesignWeek;

Further details on the Lexus presence at 2017 Milan Design Week* will be announced in mid-February on the Lexus Design Award website.

* The world's largest design exhibition, also known as Salone Del Mobile, presents events and exhibits by brands and designers in many categories including furniture, fashion and textiles.

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The Lexus Group Enthusiast - 2017 LEXUS LS TO GET A HYDROGEN VARIANT, RELEASE DATE SET TO 2019

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The Lexus Group Enthusiast - 2017 LEXUS LS TO GET A HYDROGEN VARIANT, RELEASE DATE SET TO 2019

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The 2017 Lexus LS is set to get a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain variant which is set to be release in 2019. It is likely that its technology will be very similar to the LF-FC’s, meaning it may have one electric motor driving the rear wheels and two in-wheel motors sending power to the front.

It is worth nothing that just recently, spy photographers have caught the first prototype of the 2017 Lexus LS testing on the road. The car is still covered though by a thick black canvas color prompting that it will be a completely new design.

The fourth generation of the saloon representation of Lexus has been in business since 2006 so it is clear that a huge update is needed to be done for the 2017 Lexus LS as their main rivals have already surpassed the Japanese brand since all have modern versions of their models. One of them is the BMW 7 Series, which in the same time interval has launched three generations.

At the moment many details about the flagship of Lexus, the 2017 Lexus LS are still unknown, but recent news from Carscoops say that the executive saloon will feature the new global architecture of the company and offer gasoline powered V8 and V6 engines as well as a hydrogen variant set to arrive in 2019. For its part, Toyota recorded the LS500 and LS500h denominations last year, confirming these speculations.

Head of Lexus said that they know and have the technology of hydrogen fuel cells. The only challenge is how to package a fuel cell in a car that also needs a certain level of performance such as the 2017 Lexus LS. The premium buyers have certain expectations that needs to be maintain according to DriveSpark.

Rumors suggest that the 2017 Lexus LS will have a mechanical hydrogen fuel cell. If so, it would be one that would inherit all the advances in hydrogen than the group has been performing with the version of Toyota Mirai. This could mean that it will equip with an electric motor on the rear train and two on the front wheels.

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The Lexus Group Enthusiast dealers await halo car, more utility vehicles

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The Lexus Group Enthusiast dealers await halo car, more utility vehicles

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Michael O'Brien has been chairman of the Lexus National Dealer Advisory Council since January 2016 during a time of near-record sales and the continuing shift of consumers toward utility vehicles over traditional sedans.

O'Brien, 60, also was chairman during much tougher times, in 2009-10, when he preached dealership discipline to get through the downturn in the luxury market.

He owns O'Brien Auto Group in the state of Washington, with two Lexus dealerships in Bellevue and Tacoma. The group has other luxury and nonluxury brands that stretch into Portland, Ore.

O'Brien is excited about the coming Lexus halo car, the LC 500 coupe, and sees better SUV and crossover availability in 2017, bolstering the brand's already enviable position in the luxury market.

He was interviewed by Staff Reporter Laurence Iliff in December.

Q: How was 2016 for Lexus dealers?

A: Overall, the industry was good. Lexus business is down slightly -- but 2015 was a record year for the brand. All in all, it was a really solid year, but it didn't feel like a mid-17 million SAAR.

What major issues do Lexus dealers face?

Capitalizing on the shift in the market to SUVs. It took several months to right-size dealer inventory with the right amount of SUVs.

What do you hope to accomplish as chairman of the dealer council?

I want to help bring the right product at the right time so we can compete in all categories.

How best could the factory help dealers sell more vehicles?

We need to have the right vehicles at the right time with competitive incentives. We have a great relationship with Lexus -- they listen to our needs and concerns and are very responsive.

Is Lexus adding dealerships?

In the last several years, Lexus has only added a few stores in markets where they need representation. For Lexus dealers this is a nonissue.

Do you expect to see more or less leasing for Lexus in 2017?

Leasing is a core part of Lexus' overall customer retention strategy -- and we expect it to stay about the same.

Are inventory levels a concern?

There was a concern, but it has gotten much better. We expect to finish the fourth quarter very strong and to start 2017 off with great SUV availability.

Is there anything specific Lexus is doing to support dealer profit as volume flattens out?

Lexus has made the adjustments to inventory to build more SUVs and cut back on sedan production.

What products are you looking forward to?

Dealers are looking forward to having a halo sports car with the LC 500.

What would you like to see Lexus do to help dealers handle more service business?

Service business is up as Lexus has seen very solid growth in our customer-pay service business year-to-date. In addition to ensuring Lexus and its dealers continue to take tremendous care of Lexus customers to maximize retention, they have also been very proactive in providing new ways to drive more service business to our stores.

One great example: our biannual nationally promoted Exclusive Tire Events. These have gone a long way to ensuring our owners know their Lexus dealer can handle all of their service and maintenance needs, including tires.

Another example is our new Enform Service Connect technology, which has been available for about a year. Through the vehicle telematics system, Lexus owners who opt-in for Service Connect have added peace of mind with visibility to vehicle health reports. Owners can be reminded via email or a service alert in their vehicle when they have maintenance due. A great dealer advantage to Service Connect is our improved visibility into a guest's needs as we also can see these health reports. We now can proactively contact a guest to schedule maintenance, providing a personalized, elevated guest experience.

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The Lexus Group Enthusiast goes wild at the 2017 Tokyo Auto Salon

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The Lexus Group Enthusiast goes wild at the 2017 Tokyo Auto Salon

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The Tokyo Auto Salon is recognized as the first major car event of the year but it is also one of the world’s biggest and most entertaining. Held annually in Chiba’s futuristic waterfront district, the show is dedicated to Japan’s thriving tuning scene. And like the automotive equivalent of a New Year’s resolution, trends launched here have a habit of affecting other western markets for the rest of the year.

The diversity of cars displayed at the huge Makuhari Messe venue is astounding. If you can imagine any genre, sub-genre or niche within the automotive aftermarket, you will be able to find a company with designs on it. Fortunately, the fact that Lexus specializes in delivering a luxury experience has focused the outcome somewhat, but that hasn’t stopped companies using that theme to embrace new challenges.

Leading the way here was Lexus itself, revealing the new production-based Lexus RC F GT3 to the world’s stage. This carbon-skinned beast will be unleashed in North America in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship under 3GT Racing, and in the GT300 class of Japan’s Super GT series under the LMcorsa team. If that wasn’t dramatic enough, Lexus also showed its bold new competitor (above and below) for the highest echelon of the Super GT series, GT500. Come the start of the 2017 race season the new LC 500 racer will be adorned in team livery but we can’t help thinking that the naked dry carbon offers an incredibly intimidating, Batmobile effect.

Showing what the new challenger had to live up to, the LC 500 stood alongside last year’s champion – the Denso Kobelco Sard RC F driven by Heikki Kovalainen and Kohei Hirate.

Talking of Sard, the tuner’s race experience has been put to good use in development of a new LSR Edition aerodynamic system for the RC model. The full package is shown below, which consists of a carbon fibre front splitter, vented bonnet and neat ducktail rear spoiler. Also fitted is the company’s exhaust, chassis and brake components.

Super GT was also the inspiration for fellow tuner/race team TOM’S, which put on a masterclass of understatement with a pair of current F-line cars decked in spotlight-popping Sonic Silver. Would you believe that a total of 26 different products enhance this GS F below, extending from body and chassis to engine and interior. Definitely one of our favourite cars of the show.

Similar thinking was applied by Novel, which also displayed an RC F and GS F, alongside its race-prepared IS F that came third-in-class in last year’s 24 Hours of Nürburgring. Products fitted to the race car have informed the development of an attractive yet functional series of aero, chassis and engine parts.Carbon-over-white colour schemes are popular among Lexus tuners, especially those which aim to retain an air of restrained dignity with their demo cars. This was true of the subtle Black Label RX and IS models displayed by Artisan Spirits

At first glance, the Lexus IS below appears to follow a similar theme. But look a little more closely and you realise that it is a second-generation model with a spindle grille conversion. This convincing makeover is produced by Fixer and is also available for the fourth-generation LS – a modification that might prove popular following the announcement of the next-generation flagship.

If there is one area of the aftermarket that Lexus has got sewn up, it’s VIP style. Contrary to the perceived understanding of the initials, VIP isn’t a who, it’s a trend associated with large, rear-wheel drive cars. Always impossibly low-slung, the style requires the right stance – dished alloys and negative camber geometry in order to squeeze the widest possible wheels within the arches. Cars modified in a VIP style are not about going fast, they’re designed to cruise along and look good.

T Demand’s GS 350 (above) exemplified this VIP approach, using its air suspension system and staggered SSR 19-inch wheel set-up to achieve the desired effect. However, the car’s incredibly shiny black paint reflected every surface and made it almost impossible to see. A similar approach is also seen on this RC F Sport on the XO Luxury Wheels stand.

From this foundation, all sorts of fun and games ensues as tuners take the rule book and rip it to shreds. Which is precisely what the Tokyo Auto Salon is all about.

Vehicle stance is being pushed beyond the boundaries of surrounding bodywork. Just because the top of the tyre needs to be covered by the body, that doesn’t mean the rest of the wheel has to. This is seen in 326 Power’s show-stopping RC 350 below, the rear tyres of which are so stretched over the alloys that the rims sit a good 40mm proud of the sidewalls.

Wide wheels do not have to mean stretched tyres, as the popularity of race-inspired over-fenders has now been adopted by the VIP crowd in order to increase the car’s footprint. For instance, Aimgain’s Lexus LS 460 F Sport (below) manages to completely swallow its 21-inch Savini alloys with the help of a JUN VIP GT aero kit, which includes front and rear over-fenders that are 50 and 80mm wider than standard respectively.

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Singapore
Trip Day 1 - Transportation Guide To Singapore by Bacall Associates

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Singapore
Trip Day 1 - Transportation Guide To Singapore by Bacall Associates

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Singapore is my second out of the country trip early last year. This prosperous city-state is so well known because of many Filipinos working here, mostly in tourism and IT industry.  This became memorable for me because of the misadventures we had during planning and the trip itself.  Nonetheless, Singapore is worth visiting I'd love to come back.

What You Need To Know:

• Singapore is one of the 25 countries Filipinos (with Philippine passport) can visit without a visa.  The tourist visa is good for 30 days.

• Immigration officers in the Philippines are pretty strict to Filipinos going here.  A lot of Filipinos visit Singapore as a tourist but they never came back instead start working there.  Most often than not, they process the working permit in Singapore once they got the job.  I hope you already read my Hong Kong series because I already stated the things you need to show to an immigration officer.  But just to refresh, make sure you show you’re:

1.  Fully filled and signed departure / embarkation card

2.  Philippine passport

3.  Itinerary Flight Details - make sure that you have a flight going back to the Philippines

4.  Hotel/Hostel booking

5. Company ID - if you are employed it is best to show your company i.d. to ensure the officer you will come back again.  Be confident.  Officers might ask a lot.

6.  Government ID and/or other supporting documents for self-employed and students.

• Singapore is a multicultural country comprises of Singaporeans, Indians, Malays, and a home to blue collar workers coming from Philippines, Indonesia, and Bangladesh.  English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil are four official language in Singapore.  The influence of Chinese and Malay language is apparent in their informal English they called Singlish.

• Money in Singapore is in Singapore Dollars (SGD).  1 SGD = 34-35PHP as of writing.

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Head of Digital Channels Risk
Management

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Head of Digital Channels Risk
Management

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Salary: Competitive

Location:  San Francisco, CA, USA

Job Type:  Permanent, Full time

Company:  First Republic Bank

Updated on:  05 Jun 16

More information about this job:

Overview:

The Head of Digital Channels Risk Management is responsible for delivery, maintenance and evolution of an effective program for the identification, measurement and monitoring of risk and associated operating controls related to the department and its digital products and services.

This individual will work closely with managers and teams within Digital Channels, as well as with organizations across First Republic such as Information Security, Vendor Management, Information Services, Audit, Compliance, and BSA/AML, to ensure that sound risk, regulatory compliance, and internal audit processes are in place and maintained in order to manage the accuracy and effectiveness of the Bank’s digital services. The position will also consult to management and product teams on potential risk factors presented in new products, markets and procedures, as well as stay abreast of market trends and developments relative to risk and security aspects of online and mobile banking.

Responsibilities:

·        Consult on potential risk factors presented in new products, markets and procedures, with the aim of reducing risk exposure to the bank.

·        Work with Digital Channels managers and product teams to facilitate the completion of risk assessments as required, and oversee the coordination and continuous monitoring of open audit, review, and regulatory issues.

·        Serve as the Risk Liaison, the 1st line of defense, responsible for understanding the business unit’s processes and functions and identifying and reporting risks or unusual trends.

·        Assist Digital Channels managers and product teams in identifying and addressing control deficiencies that surface as a result of an exposure identified during an investigation, or control issues resulting from either an internal audit or regulatory review.

·        Maintain and evolve the Digital Channels Risk Management Playbook, and assist management in ensuring controls and procedures are in place to manage all audit and risk processes/issues.

·        Maintain the department’s Risk Management Dashboard and supporting documentation for the ongoing monitoring and reporting of the current status of risk controls, comprised of a number of categories such as Audit & Compliance, Business Continuity, Access & Identity Management, Vendor Oversight, and Fraud Detection.

·        Advise managers and product teams in the successful oversight/management of any relationships with 3rd party vendors to ensure a strong control environment is maintained at all times and that risk to the Bank from external vendors is minimized.

·        Keep current on market/technology trends and developments relative to risk and security aspects of online and mobile banking.

·        Perform duties & responsibilities specific to department functions & activities.

·        Perform other duties & responsibilities as required or assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications:

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

·        Minimum of 5 – 7 years of related work experience in at least two of the following areas is required: operational risk, IT audit, banking compliance, fraud prevention

·        Minimum of 5 years demonstrated experience in Digital Financial Services system/product development is strongly preferred.

·        Excellent presentation skills and the development of related materials

·        Excellent oral and written communication skills

·        Strong organizational skills

·        Ability to collaboratively influence business partners in addressing control issues and business practices

·        Ability to handle confidential information in a mature and professional manner

·        Adaptability and flexibility

·        Team player

·        Undergraduate degree required; graduate degree desirable

MENTAL/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

·        Vision must be sufficient to read data reports, manuals and computer screens.

·        Hearing must be sufficient to understand a conversation at a normal volume, including telephone calls and in person.

·        Speech must be coherent to clearly convey or exchange information, including the giving and receiving of assignments and/or directions.

·        Position involves sitting most of the time, but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time.

·        Must be able to travel in a limited capacity.

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How to Protect
Yourself from Online Travel Booking Scams by Bacall Associates

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How to Protect
Yourself from Online Travel Booking Scams by Bacall Associates

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Thanks to the Internet, booking travel online is simple. But as your ideas of a spring break or summer vacation take shape, remember to be cautious when making reservations online. The number of phony travel booking websites is growing because they’re so successful at scamming consumers. Learn what to do so you don’t take a quick trip to Fraudville instead of your dream destination.

Fake Travel Reservation Websites

According to estimates by the American Hotel & Lodging Association approximately 15 million online hotel reservations are made on bogus third-party sites every year. These rogue websites trick people into thinking they’re reserving directly with their hotel of choice. Instead, the victims are making reservations on phony sites set up to steal their money, credit card information, and dreams of a relaxing overnight stay. With cybercriminals pocketing more than $1.3 billion in fake hotel reservations, consumers need to beware when booking hotel rooms and other travel reservations online — such as for airline flights and rental cars, too.

How to Avoid Online Travel Reservation Scams

1. Go directly to the official website of the hotel, airline, or rental car agency to book your reservations. It should have “HTTPS” in the URL. If you’re not sure you’re on a real site, call the company to verify. Or try Norton Safe Web to find out if a website is safe, for free.

2. If you decide to use a third-party site, choose a well-known and reputable brand.

3. Get recommendations for trusted travel companies or sites from your network of friends and family. If you’re ever uncertain about if a company is legitimate, check with the Better Business Bureau (link is external).

4. Use a credit card instead of a debit card to book online. In case the website is phony, you won’t have given the cybercriminals direct access to your bank account. Many credit card companies offer fraud protection.

5. After you make an online reservation, always call the company afterward to confirm. If there is no record of your reservation, it’s better to know sooner rather than later. You’ll be able to alert your credit card company, report the fraud, and still have time to book reservations with the real deal.  b

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Open Reduction / Internal Fixation – Howard Marans MD

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Open Reduction / Internal Fixation – Howard Marans MD

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Dr. Howard Marans - Internal fixation is a procedure in which a device is attached to a bone to stabilize it and help it heal. Internal fixation is highly effective at aligning bones and promoting healing. Pins, plates, screws, and rods can all be used to fixate a bone internally.

How it Works

During internal fixation, the patient is taken into the operating room and the area that will be operated on is sterilized. The doctor makes an incision above the bone. Once the bone is accessed, the first step is to place the bone in its natural position (open reduction). Then, the bone is stabilized and kept in that position through the use of special implants.

Implants that can be used in internal fixation include:

Plates – Internal splints that are connected to the bone with screws. Plates are often left in place after healing is complete.

Screws – Screws can be used along or in conjunction with other implants. Screws may either be left in place or removed after healing.

Rods – Rods are inserted through the hollow center of a bone, typically a bone with marrow in the center, especially shinbone and thighbone fractures. Rods are secured with screws at the top and bottom, to prevent the bone from shortening or rotating. Rods may be left in or removed after healing.

Pins – Used to treat bones that are to small for screws. Pins are usually removed after healing.

There is typically a hospital stay of 1-7 days after an internal fixation. This varies on the type of fracture and age/health of the patient.

When It’s Necessary

Simple fractures in which the bone is cracked but stays in place can often heal without surgery, simply by casting and immobilizing the bone. However, in cases where the bone is fractured in many places or where the pieces of the bone separate significantly, internal fixation may be required.

Fractures are usually immediately apparent after they occur, and internal fixation is usually performed on an emergency basis, as soon as medical imaging confirms that the nature of the fracture requires open reduction and internal fixation.

Prompt Treatment of Fractures is Essential

The importance of prompt treatment for fractures cannot be overstated. If a fracture is suspected, it is always best to seek medical treatment. Signs of fractures include severe pain, visible or palpable bumps on the bone, and an inability to move a joint.

Without prompt treatment, a number of significant complications can occur due to a fracture. Examples include:

Compartment syndrome – A life-threatening and limb-threatening condition in which pressure in a muscle compartment builds up to dangerous levels. Compartment syndrome is an emergency that requires surgery. It can occur even with prompt treatment, but prompt treatment is essential to prevention and treatment.

Nonunion – Nonunion occurs when the bone fails to heal at all.

Malunion – Malunion occurs when the bone heals in a misaligned manner. For example, bones that are not properly set may heal shortened or crooked. It is much harder to treat nonunion and malunion than to treat the fracture when it initially occurs.

Nerve damage – If the bone moves so that it presses against surrounding structures, it may press against the nerves. If not treated promptly, nerve damage may occur.

Infection – Infection can occur in the bone, especially if the bone pokes through the skin. Without prompt treatment, the bone and surrounding area are vulnerable to infection.

If you have symptoms of a fracture, you should call your doctor or visit the emergency room immediately.​

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Howard
Marans MD: Affordable Ankle Surgery in Orange County, CA

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Howard
Marans MD: Affordable Ankle Surgery in Orange County, CA

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Affordable ankle surgery is a dicey subject – there are many surgical interventions that can be performed on the ankle, and the costs vary depending upon the complexity of the procedure. The patient who is having ankle distress symptoms should worry more about the cause of their issues instead of worrying about affordability. However, if you health insurance coverage, you can be assured your surgery will be covered and your co-pay very reasonable, depending on your insurance plan. With health insurance coverage, you can have affordable ankle surgery, no matter the dysfunction.

Ankle Surgery Funding

Ankles require surgery due to arthritis, injury, and birth defects. Complex surgical procedures, even if uninsured, can be afforded with funding loans or payment schedules with the surgeon and hospital. It is not unusual for the ankle joint to have to be totally reconstructed after an accident, and you should seek out the highest authority in orthopedic surgery to treat your issue, even if you must have affordable ankle surgery.

Orange County Orthopedic

Whether you want to get back to your softball league or play on your school team, Orange County Orthopedic provides you with prompt care by utilizing state of the art surgical, arthroscopic, and orthopedic treatments and procedures.

As an Orange County, California specialist and surgeon, Dr. Marans not only is the go-to authority for sports injuries to vital joints and the reconstruction to complete health, but he volunteers as physician for the sports teams at local secondary schools. This is an outstanding benefit to his community and its families, and is indicative of the overall caring character of this highly skilled surgeon.

Sports Medicine and Reconstruction

Dr. Howard Marans has expertise in all of the human joints as an authoritative surgeon of wrists, elbows, shoulders, ankles, hands, and knees. His medical practice dates over twenty years in the operating rooms performing surgery for athletes, people in law enforcement, and others. Among the difficult procedures which Dr. Marans performs with expertise is the Achilles tear and reconstruction, joint replacement, and treating de Quervain's Disease. Some of his male patients have experienced the need for rotator cuff repair, and he has extensive experience in ACL knee repair and reconstruction.

His practice and studies have taken him to Canada, Australia, and the U.S. His offices in Fountain Valley, California have the highest quality equipment and diagnostic tools and his staff shares his mission of caring for patients with professionalism and timeliness.

Top Affordable Ankle Surgery in Orange Couny, CA

Dr. Howard Marans has received the following honorary awards for exemplary service:

- J.C. Kennedy Award for Excellency in Sports Medicine

- Excellence in Research Award (Sport Sciences) American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine

- Healthgrade Honor Roll

If you are experiencing any inflammation, stiffness, pain, or limited movement in your ankle, contact Dr. Howard Marans immediately for his evaluation and correction of your medical issue.

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Ramesh Shivakumaran More Vital Port Management Concepts

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Ramesh Shivakumaran More Vital Port Management Concepts

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Owing to the extent and complexity of operating ports, there are still remaining concepts Gulftainer Company Limited shares to its website guests who include owners, investors, workers and clients of ports around the world. These principles involve specific requirements for port managers to consider in operating port facilities. Gultainer’s almost four decades of experience in port management and interacting with other port management companies has allowed it to expand its own knowledge and capability in the industry.

Here are some vital concepts worth considering:

1. Understanding the responsibility for and nature of marine operations allows port managers to recognize the special skills needed to operate ports. Some of these particular tasks include conservancy, dredging, proper use of navigation aids, navigation control techniques and other functions related to the industry. One almost has to have direct experience in the tasks mentioned above in order to truly appreciate the value and purpose of these functions. Many, if not all, boat captains once worked as a young sailor or a first mate before given the daunting task of ship pilot. So with running ports; one needs to have his hands dipped into one of the menial tasks of the business first in order to fully understand the significance and importance of the whole operation.

2. Understanding the management of cargo operations on board and ashore will provide port managers a working knowledge of the dynamic requirements of the business. In connection with this, one also has to appreciate the vital importance of preventing traffic and cargo congestion within the port environment to achieve a smooth operation. Nothing can mess up a port more easily than the lack of coordination and loss of time arising from machinery breakdown and worker inefficiency. Maintaining a ship-shape company requires proper training and regular monitoring of employee skills and morale.

3. Fully understanding the value of safety management provides port managers the capacity to establish a risk-free environment for workers and clients. Use of heavy equipment and moving of large cargoes and transport vehicles require utmost care and skills on the part of operators and also managers. Working as a team, safety for all concerned will be achieved according to well-established safety measures learned and developed through many years of experience.

4. Completely appreciating the importance of security to prevent terrorism, illegal immigration, theft and smuggling reduces the occurrence of illegal and criminal acts perpetrated by insiders as well as outsiders. Such activities are deemed unavoidable in many port terminals all over the world. Syndicates thrive because corruption breeds among discontented workers and petty criminals among employees who may conspire with criminals or terrorists to gain personal benefits. Providing tight security protection and safeguards is demanded of port managers, without any exception or excuse.

5. Finally, port managers must understand the role of trade unions and other labor organizations including the ITF to be able to appreciate the needs of workers and their demands for certain benefits or concessions from the company. Bargaining with these unions and organizations fully armed with the facts and figures will help ease tensions and alleviate unprofitable work stoppages and violent confrontations which sometimes happen anywhere where there is labor dispute.

Gulftainer is aware of all the issues involved in port management; after all, it has been in the business for 39 years already. The social, legal, political and economic issues that revolve around operating these ports can easily beset and stall the unprepared, the uninitiated and the unappreciative company. All these dimensions exist because the company is dealing with real-life conditions that affect the survival of not one company or a few individuals but millions of lives located in many cities and nations of the world.

Ramesh Shivakumaran and Gulftainer has made it its business to provide service that covers and resolves all these issues for the benefit of all people concerned.

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Learning, Ethics & Money (LEM) by Meir Ezra

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Learning, Ethics & Money (LEM) by Meir Ezra

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(4 days)

This is one of the most powerful seminars you will ever experience - not only due to the extremely rich and powerful content, but because in this seminar you will ensure you can learn anything within any subject PERFECTLY – GUARANTEED!

Have you ever excitedly started to learn a subject only to find yourself completely quitting it soon after beginning? Have certain subjects “scared” you away from learning them, i.e. “Jeeze I’ll never get myself to learn what the heck my lawyer is talking about!”

Well in this seminar, you will find out why this happens and how to ensure it never happens to you (or your colleagues and friends) again. You will find out how to study any subject with ease… You will actually realize that you cannot know anything if you don’t know it fully or perfectly.

For example: you cannot know 75% of flying an airplane - as 75% will be taking off, flying but not landing! You can see the absurdity of not knowing something perfectly. You either know it or you don’t know it - and after this seminar you will know how to learn anything to perfect results.

Furthermore, by the end of this course you will become stable as a being and you will trust yourself.

In this seminar

You will uncover the reason why you limit your ability to HAVE. This includes things such as fulfilling relationships, a career you enjoy, or money in the bank. There is also a correlation between the amount of money you have and your ability to communicate - and this seminar will reveal to you this crucial connection!

You will find out that your problems have nothing to do with what has happened to you, but everything to do with what you have done. While this may be hard to grasp, you know instinctively that it is true.

The seminar will prove it and this seminar will give you the tools to take full responsibility for what you have done and so open the doors of success for YOU.

Most people, most businesses, are failing to achieve their dreams. It seems like this universe has been constructed to have only a few people really succeed. By the end of this seminar, you will find WHY and HOW to handle this situation and become one of those “few special selected” people.

And like in all our seminars – you will get rid of tons of false data and you will know that the only limiting factors in your life are untruths and that the truth is truly freeing.

Get ready for a brand new life!

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Norvell IP LLC CLIENT REFERENCES Intellectual
Property Law Group

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Norvell IP LLC CLIENT REFERENCES Intellectual
Property Law Group

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Law firms are known by their clients. Norvell IP is very proud of its client base, and believe it is second to none. Representative clients of the firm include:

Apollo Tyres Limited

AtHome America Corporation

Brix26.com

Brunswick Corp.

Chicago Board of Trade

CME Group

DKNY

Donna Karan

Dow Jones Indexes

Energizer Holdings

Fellowes, Inc.

Giraffe, LLC

Incisive Media

Jantzen Apparel, LLC

Juicy Couture

Kate Spade New York

Leapfrog Online Customer Acquisition, LLC

Lucky Brand Jeans

Luna Carpet

Maestro-Matic

Marlin Equity Partners

McMaid

Merieux Nutrisciences Corp.

Moji

New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc.

Original Penguin

Perry Ellis

PrivateBank

Revenge of the Electric Car (WestMidWest Productions)

Robert Trent Jones II LLC

Robert Trent Jones, Jr.

Rubicon Offshore Ltd.

Schick-Wilkinson Sword

Sea Ray

Silliker Group Corporation

Sir Richard Branson

Southern Smokeless Co.

Sun Chemical Corporation

Sundog Pictures

Swanson Tool Co. Inc.

US Soccer Federation

V2 Capital, LLC

Villa Brands-ANA FAIR Tequila

Virgin Enterprises Limited

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Norvell IP Intellectual Property Law :: CLIENT REFERENCES