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About the “Hot Rod”

The Oxford Dictionary defines “hot rod” as a car that an owner improves to “give it extra power and speed.” However, people tend to think of something far more specific when they see this term.

Acknowledging that the precise definition of “hot rod” is a matter of considerable debate among automotive aficionados, the Specialty Equipment Market Association asked members of the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) to share their understanding of this unique type of car. Describing hot rodding as an “art form” and a means of expression “through creativity and design,” these HRIA members demonstrate that hot rods are more than just vehicles. They reflect the attitude and aspirations of the people who own them.

Some historians trace the origins of the hot rod to bootleggers during the Prohibition Era. To outrun law enforcement during chases, they regularly modified their vehicles to make them go faster. Racing souped up cars on local dry lake beds, residents of Southern California became the first to label these modified vehicles as “hot rods” in the 1930s. While the etymology of the term is disputed, experts suspect that it originally referred to replacing the factory camshaft on a vehicle with a “hotter” component that boosted performance.

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What Is Due Diligence in Commercial Real Estate?

In commercial real estate, buyers protect themselves by conducting due diligence on a property or development. This procedure involves finding and analyzing all information that may affect the purchase or development of a property or site. This is necessary because, unlike in residential real estate where consumer law protects the parties involved against unforeseen flaws or problems to some extent, commercial transactions have few built-in legal safeguards.

Once the purchase agreement has been signed, the buyer has roughly 30 to 90 days for due diligence, possibly longer for complex zoning and title issues. The buyer picks up all expenses after putting up a deposit that can be returned if he or she determines the purchase is not in their best interest. The buyer must also research applicable zoning laws, permits, and taxes. A Phase I environmental site assessment must also be conducted. If the study reveals problems, the buyer may need the seller’s permission to conduct additional invasive testing. Purchasers should also estimate how much income the property brings in from leasing.

If the transaction involves developing a vacant site, due diligence may become more extensive. Buyers must make certain the terrain will support a particular building design and that utilities can meet the power, water, and sewage needs of the project. The potential for earthquakes should also be assessed. Finally, potential purchasers will need to have already worked with architects and general contractors to determine the project’s construction costs.

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Key Responsibilities of a Commercial Loan Officer

Commercial loan officers are essential in assessing and processing business loan applications for financial institutions. They advise clients on loan and credit options, consult with managers on credit policies and procedures, and handle tasks like obtaining and analyzing applicants’ financial statements and credit histories. They collaborate with other financial institutions to structure loan packages when large loans are involved.

A significant part of their work involves evaluating loan requests for risk, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing the commercial loan credit department. This includes hosting homebuyer seminars, maintaining client communication, and staying informed about lending programs and policies. Commercial loan officers benefit from understanding agricultural business management, finance, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Their responsibilities often include securing new loans, investment accounts, treasury management products, and depository accounts. They may also arrange appointments and escrow signings, facilitate financing for startups or existing businesses through Small Business Administration (SBA) programs, and review litigation invoices for accuracy and potential errors.

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Tips for Building a Strong Bond with Your Grandchildren

Bonding with grandchildren is a special opportunity to create lasting memories and build meaningful relationships. Children naturally bond with their parents at birth, but the grandparent-grandchild connection requires a more intentional approach. One of the best ways to strengthen this bond is to create a safe, welcoming space where your grandkids feel comfortable, heard, and loved.

Starting slow and steady is key. It’s important to manage expectations and not push for closeness. Children often drift into their own world, and that’s normal. Instead of feeling discouraged, it helps to stay patient and focus on being present in their lives. Let the relationship unfold naturally without putting pressure on how fast or deep it should grow. Maintaining a child-centered approach is more beneficial than making it about your own needs.

A crucial aspect of bonding is respecting the role of the parents in your grandchild’s life. Grandparents should reinforce the authority and values set by the parents. It’s important to avoid stepping into parental roles or undermining decisions, as this can damage trust and complicate the relationship. Instead, your role is to influence through love, wisdom, and support, offering advice only when asked.

Another tip for building a strong connection is to lead with love and understanding, rather than judgment. You may not always agree with your grandchild’s choices, but focusing on acceptance helps maintain the relationship. This doesn’t mean you have to condone every action - it simply means keeping the lines of communication open. Showing genuine interest in their world, asking questions, and empathizing with them will help you understand them better and strengthen your bond.

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Three Top Hidden Destinations to Visit in Mexico

Mexico offers many hidden gems beyond popular destinations like Cabo, Cancun, and Mexico City. Tourists can also visit less well-known destinations like Bacalar, Guadalajara, and Zacatecas.

The jewel-toned paradise of Bacalar, just two hours south of Tulum, is a serene escape for wellness travelers and adventurers. Nestled by the stunning Laguna de Bacalar, Mexico's second-largest lake, this quiet pueblo offers its famous "Lake of Seven Colors," where visitors can marvel at the lagoon's ever-changing hues throughout the day. Unlike the bustling beaches of Tulum, Bacalar provides a peaceful atmosphere for kayakers and nature lovers.

Next, Mexico’s second city, Guadalajara, is a dynamic cultural capital for artistic, creative, and tech-savvy folks. It feels like a toned-down version of Mexico City, and traditional handicrafts from Tlaquepaque are in abundant supply. For souvenirs and local cuisine, the massive Mercado Libertad is the place to be, after which one can dip in the Puerto Vallarta beach afterward. The nearby town of Tequila offers an authentic experience of Mexico’s most famous spirit.

Finally, Zacatecas, a compact mining city in Central Mexico, offers a mix of historical charm and creative energy. The downtown region features colonial architecture and lively shops and markets offering leather goods, regional food and drink, and gems from the local mines. Visitors can enjoy the Teleferico gondola ride over the city and view Indigenous and contemporary local art that contributes to the art scene in Zacatecas - Dali, Miro, and Picasso exhibited in the town. Then, visitors can visit museums, such as Museo de Francisco Goitia, Museo de Art Abstracto Manuel Felguerez, Museo Pedro Coronel, and Museo Rafael Coronel.

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Historic Pula on the Adriatic Coast of Croatia

As the Alexandrian poet Callimachus described in the 3rd century BC, the Colchians pursued Jason and his Argonauts on their quest for the Golden Fleece upstream along the Ister River (now the Danube). Unable to secure the Argonauts, the Colchians settled in Polae, a “city of fugitives.” The Histri people subsequently controlled it and built a series of hilltop forts across the region. Then, the Romans subdued the Histri in 177 BC after a two-year siege.

Pula, controlling coastal routes, became home to a Roman garrison and thriving commercial center. The Romans constructed temples, theaters, a sewage system, and the arena at Pula, one of half a dozen largest and most well-preserved ancient amphitheaters. It features a system of rain-fed reservoirs along the top rows of seating. These supplied a fountain to cool down the crowd with scented water and wash the grounds of blood following gladiatorial games.

Pula also retains two of its 12 Roman gates, with the single-arched Gate of Hercules featuring a relief of the Roman hero with his club. An elegant landmark beckoning visitors to the old city is the Arch of the Sergii, which features elaborate Corinthian capitals and fluted columns and celebrates Roman military victory. In many ways, Pula has the feel of a time capsule, though with a lively local culture that includes rustic taverns serving local brews and authentic pizzas.

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The Habitat for Humanity HabiStore in Tuscon Arizona

Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that coordinates volunteer-staffed home-building and renovation projects. Its members strengthen the communities they serve by addressing housing instability and shortages and helping individuals and families reach self-reliance. The HabiStore is a nonprofit home improvement store and donation drop-off site with nationwide locations supporting Habitat for Humanity’s mission.

Instead of brand-new items, customers buy discounted donated furniture, appliances, and building materials. However, it does not accept mattresses, clothes, or televisions.

In Tucson, the store is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It accepts dropped-off, gently used items, or its staff can schedule a pickup. On Tuesdays, older adults receive 10 percent discounts, while all military veterans receive a permanent discount. To rotate each location’s inventory, unbought items in the store for at least a month receive a colored tag, denoting a cumulative 25 percent discount.

Sales from the Tucson store fund Habitat Tucson, helping it source materials for building new homes.

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What Is a Codeshare Flight?

A codeshare flight occurs when airlines partner to offer seats on one another's flights. Airlines are subjected to limitations regarding airspace usage, with regulations determining their permitted flight routes and schedules. Airlines logically work hand in hand with other airlines to expand their international presence. When you look up flights to Istanbul, you will discover numerous options on American Airlines, Delta, and United websites.

When you look closer, you will notice that the highest-ranking results often feature flight numbers corresponding to the airline you are checking out. For example, if you look up flights from JFK in New York City to IST in Istanbul on the American Airlines website, the top option appears to be a flight with one stop at LHR in London Heathrow. They both carry American Airlines flight numbers, yet neither is operated by American Airlines.

A codeshare agreement is a smart business strategy as forming alliances enables customers to purchase one-ticket journeys for extended flights. It allows tasks like forwarding a checked bag to its destination and accumulating reward miles with the airline of your preference. You can also check an airline's various partners by checking its webpage.

An example is United, which collaborates with airlines like Lufthansa, Air Canada, Swiss, and ANA. American Airlines' codeshare partners encompass Alaska Airlines, Qantas Airways, British Airways, and Japan Airlines. Likewise, checking Delta's site for the same New York City to Istanbul route would show flights listed with Delta flight numbers. However, Delta isn't the airline that is running these flights. Instead, Delta has codesharing arrangements with KLM, which provides these flights and stops at Amsterdam (AMS).

Codeshares offer numerous benefits for airline companies, including operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. They can also enhance their prestigious status.

The major advantage for a customer when reserving a codeshare flight is ease and convenience. If you intend to fly from Los Angeles to Tel Aviv, Israel, you can book through their site As a Delta loyalist. Unfortunately, the only available option you could find was a stopover in Paris, and Air France manages the next leg of your journey from Paris. As a result of codesharing agreements, you can purchase your full itinerary via Delta’s website, even for the segments operated by Air France.

Booking a codeshare flight can also benefit you strategically when you want to earn elite status credit. In most U.S. airline loyalty programs, the allocation of miles and the granting of elite status are determined by the amount spent on the ticket. If you book a flight through a partner airline, your chosen airline might not know the amount you paid. Consequently, certain airlines determine miles and elite credits based on the distance flown and the fare class.

You can frequently spot signs of a codeshare flight at an international airport. Even if you have a reservation with KLM, the departure board could display flight numbers for Air France, Etihad Airways, and Air Malta for the same plane. They all share flights with KLM. The person beside you could have reserved the spot using any airline. If the person reserved with a different carrier than yours, the amount the person would pay would not be the same as yours.

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Essential Considerations When Building Hot Rods

Modified automobiles or hot rods undergo engine and chassis upgrades to improve motor capabilities and appearance. The automotive subculture originated in the early 20th century and involved enthusiasts modifying cars for competitive racing or street use. The hot rod community remains active, with enthusiasts continually refining their craft.

Hot rod styles vary widely. Traditional builds emulate mid-20th-century designs, featuring period-specific components like flatheads and vintage-inspired interiors. Rat rods embrace a deliberately weathered, rustic appearance, contrasting with the polished look of modern rods. High-tech variants integrate new technology and styling, from the interiors and fuel-injected engines to electronics. The hot rod category includes custom trucks, high-performance roadsters, sport-oriented sedans, and coupes.

Choosing a suitable base (original vehicle to modify) is crucial when starting a hot rod project. Builders should align their choices with their preferred style and project goals to ensure sustained motivation throughout the build. Due diligence on the seller is essential to avoid title issues or fraud. Furthermore, considering the base vehicle's weight, structural integrity, and compatibility with desired modifications can significantly impact how the hot rod will perform. A good base also makes customization easy.

Cost considerations are paramount in hot rod projects. Partially completed builds generally offer a lower entry point and a solid foundation, especially for those with limited skills. A thorough assessment of the remaining work is also crucial to gauge total investment. Starting from scratch gives builders customization freedom but requires a significant time commitment, skill development, component availability, and thorough planning.

To manage costs, builders should source affordable yet quality parts. Non-critical systems like exhaust systems, wheels, and tires are a few areas builders may consider for inexpensive choices. Repairing or rebuilding components, rather than replacing them, can also save money and allow for budget allocation to more critical areas. Additionally, developing DIY skills can significantly reduce professional labor costs.

Before starting, builders should develop a comprehensive plan outlining goals, timelines, and a parts list to manage tasks and expectations. Consulting seasoned builders can provide accurate time and cost estimates across various build phases. A toolkit, ranging from essential hand tools to specialized equipment such as engine hoists, is also crucial. Additionally, builders should set up a dedicated, organized workspace for the project that allows for efficient work and easy access to tools and materials.

Organization extends to the initial disassembly phase of a hot rod project. While some builders might prematurely discard or sell parts they consider unimportant, retaining all components is essential, as they may prove crucial later. Builders can use labeled storage containers for small parts, document the disassembly process with photographs, and create notes on component locations and relationships. This approach facilitates smoother reassembly.

A comprehensive cleanup is necessary when it comes to the build. This phase involves removing old undercoating, scraping off rust, grime, and old paint, and steam cleaning the engine. After stripping the body down to bare metal, paint and bodywork can follow. While bodywork can be a DIY task, complex repairs require professional expertise. For self-managed projects, builders should invest in high-quality materials: durable paints, body fillers, protective coatings, and adhesives.

Reassembly demands patience and precision. Rushing leads to costly mistakes like paint scratches or upholstery damage that may need additional work hours to correct. Exposed surfaces need careful protection with appropriate materials (e.g., tapes and plastic sheeting). Builders should also ensure proper alignment of parts before securing them and consider test-fitting components to avoid needing later adjustments with a checklist that helps builders track parts during reassembly.

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The Benefits of Volunteering for Personal Growth

Volunteering benefits communities and individuals who experience personal growth. Volunteering provides numerous benefits, such as boosting confidence, developing skills, and providing a sense of purpose.

Volunteers often step out of their comfort zones as they meet new people, tackle challenges, and complete tasks. Some organize fundraisers, teach a class, or lend a hand at a local food bank; every small victory adds up. Individuals start to see themselves in a new light as they feel more capable, resourceful, and ready to take on the world.

Next, volunteers can develop their skills. For example, many people want to improve their public speaking, learn how to manage projects or learn basic carpentry skills. Nonprofits need all kinds of help, so volunteers will find themselves completing tasks they have never completed. Each new task offers an opportunity to learn and grow, making volunteers more flexible while improving their resumes.

In addition, volunteers can expand their social and professional networks. They can connect with like-minded individuals with a passion for making a difference. These connections can lead to enduring friendships, mentorship opportunities, and job prospects. Since various people volunteer, they never know who will serve food at a homeless shelter or organize a community event alongside them. These relationships can be incredibly enriching, providing support and encouragement long after volunteering.

One of the most profound benefits of volunteering is its sense of purpose and fulfillment. When people volunteer, they make a tangible difference in someone's life. That feeling of knowing their efforts are helping others can be gratifying. It gives life an added layer of meaning. Many people find that volunteering helps them put their own problems into perspective, making them feel more grateful and content.

Many volunteers will find that volunteering boosts their mental health. It can reduce stress, combat depression, and provide a sense of accomplishment. The social interaction aspect of volunteering can alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation. People remain positive and focused when they engage in meaningful activities and connect with others. Helping others releases endorphins or feel-good chemicals in the brain, giving a natural high and a happier outlook on life.

Volunteering can also enhance career prospects. Some employers look for volunteer work on resumes. It shows that applicants have a proactive and dedicated mindset and indicates that they have a variety of skills and experiences. Whether someone is looking to break into a new field or advance in their current career, volunteering can provide the experience and connections needed to stand out.

Moreover, volunteering often brings people into contact with individuals from different walks of life. This exposure can broaden horizons, helping volunteers understand and appreciate diverse cultures and perspectives. It's a great way to develop empathy and become more socially aware. This kind of personal growth is invaluable in personal and professional life, making one more compassionate and well-rounded.

In many cases, volunteering fosters a sense of community. When people volunteer, they help to build a stronger, more connected community. They contribute to a collective effort to make the world a better place. This sense of belonging and contribution can be incredibly empowering and uplifting.

Finally, for retired individuals, volunteering can be especially beneficial. Retirement often brings a lot of free time, and volunteering is a proper way to stay active and engaged. It provides a sense of structure and routine many retirees miss after leaving the workforce. Additionally, volunteering can help retirees stay socially connected, reducing the risk of isolation and loneliness. It's a chance to share their wealth of knowledge and experience with younger generations, leaving a lasting impact on the community. Many retirees find renewed purpose and joy in giving back, making their golden years even more fulfilling.

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Building a Hot Rod on a Budget

Building a hot rod is a thrilling undertaking for automotive enthusiasts. It mixes creativity, technical skill, and passion for classic cars. Yet, it does not end there. Building a hot rod can be a pricey assignment, particularly if not schemed carefully. Understanding the essentials and making informed decisions can be a deal breaker for those looking to build a hot rod on a budget.

Hot rod concepts have a rich history, born in the United States during the 1930s and 1940s. Enthusiasts would modify their cars for better performance and uniqueness. The hot rods are typically custom-built cars from the early to mid-20th century, modified with large engines for increased speed and enhanced aesthetics. These vehicles often feature altered bodies, upgraded suspensions, and custom paint jobs, reflecting the owner's identity and style.

There are two primary practices when building a hot rod: building from scratch or purchasing a part-built project. Building a hot rod from scratch involves sourcing every component, from the chassis and engine to the smallest bolt. Enthusiasts who want complete control over the design and build benefit from this strategy, although it requires more time and money. It also requires extensive knowledge, skills, and specialized tools and equipment access.

On the other hand, a part-built project provides more practicality. Enthusiasts can find partially completed hot rods at lower prices, offering a solid foundation for customization. Buying a part-built project allows builders to stamp their design on it while saving money on initial costs. Auctions, classified ads, or online marketplaces serve as some places to find them.

When building a hot rod on a budget, explore some considerations, starting with choosing the right project vehicle. The type of vehicle, its model, and body type significantly influence the overall cost. Complete thorough research to find a car that meets the owner's needs and budget. If buying an incomplete project, inspect it in person or hire a trusted agent. It can save unforeseen problems and expenses. It also helps ensure the vehicle's frame and body are in decent condition to avoid costly repairs.

Another consideration is the availability of vehicle parts. The availability of spare parts can affect the project's cost and timeline. Some vehicle models have a higher availability of aftermarket reproduction parts, which are generally more affordable and easier to find. Choosing a model with good parts availability is important to avoid delays and excessive costs. It will require researching suppliers, local junkyards for parts, and online forums and communities dedicated to hot rod building.

Deciding whether to do the work or hire professionals is another consideration. If the project is a personal passion and the owner has the necessary skills and tools, it can balance personal satisfaction and cost-effectiveness. However, some tasks may require specialized equipment or expertise beyond the owner's capability. In such cases, hiring a skilled professional might be necessary. In the case of hiring professionals, it is important to check the shop rates and ensure there is a clear contract to avoid any unexpected costs or issues. Even after hiring a professional, doing some work helps bring down costs.

Lastly, having an appropriate workspace is also essential for building a hot rod. A well-equipped garage with lifts and multiple stalls makes the work easier and more efficient. However, avoid overlooking limited workspaces like a carport or a small garage with essential tools. Many have built impressive hot rods in modest settings.

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Chevy Chevelle - Iconic Muscle Car of its Era

One of the most versatile muscle cars of its era, the Chevy Chevelle first came off the production line in September 1963, introduced at a Chicago press conference. Built on an A-body platform, the Chevelle shared the same underlying frame as the Oldsmobile Cutlass, Pontiac Tempest, and Buick Skylark. Its niche was between the large Impala and compact Chevy II/Nova, and its nearest competitor at launch was the Ford Fairlane. The popular mid-size sold 338,286 units in its first year and remained in production until 1977.

Introduced as a 220-horsepower 283cid, the Chevelle was initially available as a two-door hardtop, the Sports Coupe, or a convertible. A smaller number of four-door sedans and two or four-door station wagon models also made it to showroom floors. One hallmark was that it returned the 115-inch wheelbase of 1955 to 1957 Chevys. This created a smooth ride that backseat passengers appreciated, making it a popular family vehicle. By the end of 1964, the Chevelle was available with a top-line 300 horsepower 327cid engine that solidified it in the performance category.

By 1965, Chevy offered a performance 350hp L79 engine on its Super Sport (SS) trim model. Innovations included vinyl bucket seats with a floor console, a four-gauge cluster, and an optional dash-mounted tachometer that measured revolutions per minute.

In 1965, Chevrolet upped the ante, introducing the Chevy Malibu SS 396 Z16. The Z16 replaced the small-block engine of previous SS models with a big-block V8 engine known as the 396 (or L37). This delivered a full-throated 375 horsepower and is seen by many as the start of the classic muscle car era. The Z16 is also one of the most sought-after models by vintage collectors, as only 201 of the new trim was manufactured in its inaugural year.

The popularity of the higher-performance Super Sport packages on the baseline Chevelle was such that in 1966, Chevrolet made SS its model, which featured a 396 engine and horsepower options between 325 and 375. This more limited version of the first-generation Chevelle, the SS396 series, lasted through 1968.

Spanning 1968 to 1972, the second generation of the Chevelle relegated Super Sport to an engine package again and represented a radical redesign of the vehicle. The 396 cubic inch, 375hp engine remained the top-of-line option. Aesthetically, the taillights were bigger, and the back of the vehicle was shorter and curvier. With a cut wheelbase, the second-generation Chevelle also featured a noticeably longer hood.

The 1970 Chevelle LS6 introduced the iconic twin racing-stripe front hood option, which is familiar from car chase scenes in movies and TV series of the era. Its taillights were bumper-mounted, and with a 450 horsepower 454 block, it had one of the most powerful engines of the era. The highly collected model only lasted a single year: already, United States regulations were on the horizon that would make better mileage vehicles a must, and in 1971, the vehicle returned to a small-block 350 engine.

The mid-1970s oil crisis and further fuel economy regulations stripped the Chevelle line of its power and luster. By 1977, the Chevrolet Chevelle and Malibu series had only 145 horsepower, a far cry from their muscle car heydays. The following year, the Chevelle was folded into the Malibu brand as Chevy streamlined operations.