Introduction to Cordless Siding Nailer
When it comes to home improvement projects, siding installation is often a task that requires precision and efficiency. Whether you’re upgrading your home’s exterior or working on a construction project, getting your siding securely in place is crucial. This is where cordless siding nailers come into play. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what cordless siding nailer are, why they matter, and the purpose of this guide in helping you master the art of siding installation.
A cordless siding nailer is a specialized power tool designed to drive nails into various siding materials without the need for a traditional air compressor or hose. This innovative tool relies on rechargeable batteries to deliver the necessary power for nailing, making it a versatile and portable choice for siding professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
Unlike traditional pneumatic nailers, which require a constant supply of compressed air, cordless siding nailers offer unparalleled freedom of movement. This means you can navigate your worksite without tripping over hoses or worrying about the availability of air compressors. Cordless models are not only more convenient but also a more cost-effective choice, saving you from investing in expensive air compressor systems.
A. Importance of Cordless Siding Nailers
Cordless siding nailers have quickly become a game-changer in the world of siding installation. Their importance can be highlighted through several key advantages:
- Portability and Flexibility: Cordless nailers free you from the constraints of cords and hoses, allowing you to work in tight spaces and move around your project with ease.
- Time Efficiency: These tools are faster and more efficient, as they eliminate the need for setup and the constant repositioning of air compressors, which can save you valuable time on your projects.
- Reduced Operating Costs: Without the need for an air compressor, you’ll not only save on equipment costs but also reduce maintenance expenses, making cordless nailers a cost-effective choice in the long run.
- Improved Safety: Cordless siding nailers reduce the risk of tripping hazards associated with pneumatic hoses, enhancing overall safety on the worksite.
- Eco-Friendly Operation: Since cordless nailers don’t rely on fossil fuels, they are more environmentally friendly, contributing to a greener workspace.
B. Purpose of the Guide
The purpose of this guide is to empower you with the knowledge and skills needed to make the most of cordless siding nailers. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast taking on your first siding project, this comprehensive resource will cover everything you need to know about these remarkable tools. We’ll explore topics such as choosing the right cordless siding nailer, proper usage techniques, safety guidelines, and troubleshooting common issues. By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to handle siding projects with confidence and efficiency, all while making the most of the advantages cordless nailers offer.
In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into the world of cordless siding nailers, addressing the nuances of these tools and providing you with valuable insights to tackle your next siding project successfully. So, without further ado, let’s get started on your journey to becoming a cordless siding nailing pro.
Understanding Cordless Siding Nailers
When it comes to home improvement and construction projects, efficiency and precision are key. Cordless siding nailers have become invaluable tools for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. In this section, we will delve into the core aspects of cordless siding nailers, including what they are, how they work, their advantages, and the various types available in the market.
A. What is a Cordless Siding Nailer?
A cordless siding nailer is a specialized power tool designed for the precise and rapid installation of siding materials, such as vinyl, fiber cement, wood, or composite siding. Unlike traditional pneumatic nailers, cordless siding nailers operate without the need for an external air compressor or hoses. Instead, they are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
These nailers are engineered to drive nails or fasteners into siding materials with ease, providing a secure and neat finish. They come in various designs, often resembling traditional nail guns, but they are adapted for siding applications, ensuring proper nail placement and depth adjustment.
B. How Cordless Siding Nailer Work
Cordless siding nailers operate on a straightforward yet highly efficient mechanism. Here’s a breakdown of how they work:
- Power Source: The heart of a cordless siding nailer is its rechargeable lithium-ion battery. This battery powers the nailer and eliminates the need for a cumbersome air compressor or hoses, providing freedom of movement on the job site.
- Loading Nails: The user loads the nailer with a coil or strip of nails designed for siding applications. The magazine of the nailer holds these nails, ready for deployment.
- Trigger Operation: When the user presses the trigger, the nailer’s internal motor or mechanism is activated. This drives a nail from the magazine into the siding material with remarkable speed and precision.
- Depth Adjustment: Many cordless siding nailers offer depth adjustment settings, allowing the user to control how deep the nail is driven. This feature is crucial for ensuring the nails sit flush with the siding surface.
- Firing Mode: Cordless siding nailers often have selectable firing modes. Single-shot mode is used for precise placement of individual nails, while bump or sequential modes enable continuous nailing at a consistent pace.
- Safety Mechanisms: These nailers are equipped with safety features, such as a contact tip or safety nose, to ensure that nails are only fired when the tip is in contact with the work surface, preventing accidental discharges.
C. Advantages of Cordless Siding Nailer
Cordless siding nailers offer several advantages that make them a popular choice for siding installation:
- Portability: The absence of cords and hoses provides greater mobility and flexibility on the job site, allowing users to work in tight or hard-to-reach spaces.
- Efficiency: Cordless nailers are quick and efficient, significantly reducing the time it takes to complete siding projects.
- Reduced Noise: They produce less noise compared to pneumatic nailers, making them more user-friendly and less disruptive to the surroundings.
- No Compressor Hassles: The elimination of external compressors and hoses simplifies setup and reduces the overall cost of equipment.
- Battery Power: Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries provide long-lasting power, allowing users to complete a substantial amount of work on a single charge.
- Precision: Cordless siding nailers are designed to ensure accurate nail placement and depth, resulting in a professional finish.
D. Types of Siding Nailers
Siding nailers come in various types to accommodate different siding materials and project requirements. The primary types include:
- Coil Siding Nailers: These nailers use coiled nails and are suitable for high-volume projects. They require less frequent reloading and are often used for larger siding materials.
- Strip Siding Nailers: Strip nailers use nails arranged in a straight strip. They are more compact and ideal for precision work, especially with smaller siding materials.
- Brad Nailers: Brad siding nailers are used for thinner siding materials and more delicate applications. They use thinner nails that leave smaller holes, ideal for finishing work.
- Finish Nailers: Finish siding nailers are versatile tools that can handle a range of siding materials. They are commonly used for attaching trim, moulding, and other finishing details to siding.
Understanding cordless siding nailers and their various features is essential for making an informed choice when selecting the right tool for your siding projects. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, cordless siding nailers can greatly enhance your efficiency and the quality of your work.
Top 10 Cordless Sliding Nailer
Here are the top 10 cordless sliding nailer we have shortlisted for this review:
- DeWalt DCN66B Cordless Siding Nailer:
- Brand: DeWalt
- Features: Tool-free depth adjustment, adjustable rafter hook, sequential and bump fire modes.
- Nail Length: 1-1/2″ to 2-1/2″
- Battery: Compatible with DeWalt 20V MAX XR Lithium-Ion batteries.
- Makita XRN01Z Cordless Brad Nailer:
- Brand: Makita
- Features: Anti-dry fire mechanism, depth adjustment, LED work light, and brushless motor.
- Nail Length: 5/8″ to 2″
- Battery: Compatible with Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries.
- Bostitch BCN650D1 Cordless Siding Nailer:
- Brand: Bostitch
- Features: Depth adjustment, jam release, and a 20-degree magazine.
- Nail Length: 1-1/4″ to 2-1/2″
- Battery: 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery.
- Hitachi NR1890DR Cordless Framing Nailer:
- Brand: Hitachi (now Metabo HPT)
- Features: Brushless motor, selective actuation, and a high-capacity magazine.
- Nail Length: 2″ to 3-1/2″
- Battery: Compatible with Hitachi/Metabo HPT MultiVolt batteries.
- Ryobi P320 Cordless Brad Nailer:
- Brand: Ryobi
- Features: Adjustable air pressure, dry-fire lockout, and grip light for better visibility.
- Nail Length: 5/8″ to 2″
- Battery: Compatible with Ryobi 18V ONE+ Lithium-Ion batteries.
- Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless Brad Nailer:
- Brand: Milwaukee
- Features: Tool-free depth adjustment, sequential and contact actuation modes, and a brushless motor.
- Nail Length: 5/8″ to 2-1/8″
- Battery: Compatible with Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM batteries.
- Paslode 905600 Cordless XP Framing Nailer:
- Brand: Paslode
- Features: Compact design, dual-mode operation, and a lithium-ion battery.
- Nail Length: 2″ to 3-1/4″
- Battery: Paslode 7.4V lithium-ion battery.
- Senco Fusion FN65DA Cordless Finish Nailer:
- Brand: Senco
- Features: No-mar tip, adjustable depth of drive, and low fastener indicator.
- Nail Length: 1-1/4″ to 2-1/2″
- Battery: 18V Lithium-Ion battery.
- Metabo HPT NT1865DMA Cordless Finish Nailer:
- Brand: Metabo HPT
- Features: Selective actuation, tool-less depth of drive, and brushless motor.
- Nail Length: 1″ to 2-1/2″
- Battery: Compatible with Hitachi/Metabo HPT MultiVolt batteries.
- Ridgid R250AF18 Cordless Finish Nailer:
- Brand: Ridgid
- Features: Dry-fire lockout, no-mar pad, and a hex grip for improved handling.
- Nail Length: 3/4″ to 2-1/2″
- Battery: Compatible with Ridgid 18V Lithium-Ion batteries.
Comparison Chart – Cordless Sliding Nailer
|Brand and Model
|Features and Specifications
|Tool-free depth adjustment, rafter hook, dual modes
|1-1/2″ to 2-1/2″
|DeWalt 20V MAX XR Li-Ion
|Anti-dry fire, LED light, brushless motor
|5/8″ to 2″
|Makita 18V LXT Li-Ion
|Depth adjustment, jam release, 20-degree magazine
|1-1/4″ to 2-1/2″
|20V MAX Li-Ion
|Brushless motor, selective actuation, high capacity
|2″ to 3-1/2″
|Hitachi/Metabo HPT MultiVolt
|Adjustable air pressure, dry-fire lockout, grip light
|5/8″ to 2″
|Ryobi 18V ONE+ Li-Ion
|Milwaukee M18 FUEL
|Tool-free depth adjustment, dual modes, brushless
|5/8″ to 2-1/8″
|Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM
|Compact design, dual-mode, lithium-ion battery
|2″ to 3-1/4″
|Paslode 7.4V Li-Ion
|Senco Fusion FN65DA
|No-mar tip, adjustable depth, low fastener indicator
|1-1/4″ to 2-1/2″
|Metabo HPT NT1865DMA
|Selective actuation, tool-less depth, brushless
|1″ to 2-1/2″
|Hitachi/Metabo HPT MultiVolt
|Dry-fire lockout, no-mar pad, hex grip
|3/4″ to 2-1/2″
|Ridgid 18V Li-Ion
Please note that the specific features and compatibility may vary, and it’s essential to verify the latest product information and consider your project needs when making a selection.
Cordless Sliding Nailer Buying Guide
Selecting the right cordless siding nailer is crucial for any siding project. With various options available on the market, making an informed decision is essential. In this section, we will delve into the considerations you should keep in mind while choosing a cordless siding nailer, compare different brands and models, and also discuss budget considerations.
A. Considerations for Selection
- Nailer Type (Brad or Finish Nailer): When choosing a cordless siding nailer, one of the first decisions you need to make is the type of nailer that best suits your project. The two primary types are brad nailers and finish nailers.
- Brad Nailer: Brad nailers are lightweight and ideal for attaching thinner siding materials like trim or decorative elements. They use thinner gauge nails that leave smaller holes and are less likely to split the wood.
- Finish Nailer: Finish nailers are more powerful and suitable for attaching thicker siding materials. They use thicker gauge nails and provide a stronger bond.
- Nail Size Compatibility: The nail size compatibility of your cordless siding nailer is crucial. Ensure the nailer can accommodate the nail size required for your specific siding project. Some nailers are versatile and can accept a range of nail sizes, while others are more specialized.
- Power Source (Battery Type): Cordless siding nailers are powered by rechargeable batteries. It’s important to consider the type of battery and its runtime. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used for their reliability and extended runtime. Check the battery capacity and how easily you can find replacement batteries if needed.
- Weight and Ergonomics: The weight and ergonomics of your siding nailer can significantly impact your comfort and efficiency during extended use. Look for a model that is well-balanced and features ergonomic grips to reduce fatigue. Lightweight nailers are preferable for overhead tasks, while heavier ones may be better suited for vertical applications.
- Depth Adjustment: Depth adjustment is a crucial feature for controlling how deep the nails are driven into the siding material. Ensure your nailer has an easy-to-use depth adjustment mechanism to prevent overdriving or underdriving nails, which can affect the integrity of your siding.
- Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity determines how many nails your nailer can hold at a time. A larger magazine capacity means less downtime for reloading. Consider your project’s size and choose a nailer with an appropriate magazine size.
- Safety Features: Safety should be a top priority when selecting a cordless siding nailer. Look for safety features such as trigger locks, anti-dry fire mechanisms, and no-mar tips to protect the siding material’s surface from damage.
B. Comparing Brands and Models:
Once you’ve considered the specific features you need in a cordless siding nailer, it’s essential to compare various brands and models to find the one that best meets your requirements. Some well-known brands include DeWalt, Bostitch, Milwaukee, and Hitachi.
C. Budget Considerations:
Budget plays a significant role in your decision-making process. Cordless siding nailers can range from affordable to high-end models with advanced features. It’s important to strike a balance between your budget and the features you require for your project. Remember that investing in a quality tool may save you money in the long run by reducing the need for repairs or replacements.
Using a Cordless Siding Nailer
A. Safety Precautions
Before diving into using a cordless siding nailer, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Here are some key safety precautions to keep in mind:
- Protective Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses or goggles, ear protection, a dust mask, and gloves. These items shield you from flying debris and minimize the risk of injury.
- Check the Tool: Inspect your cordless siding nailer before use to ensure it’s in proper working condition. Look for any loose parts, damaged cords, or signs of wear. If you find any issues, address them before starting work.
- Battery Safety: If your nailer is battery-powered, make sure the battery is fully charged and securely attached to the tool. Store batteries in a cool, dry place, and replace them if they show signs of damage or decreased performance.
- Clear Workspace: Clear the work area of any obstacles, debris, or other potential hazards that might cause tripping or accidents. Maintain a clean and organized workspace to ensure smooth and safe operation.
B. Preparing the Work Area
Properly preparing your work area is essential for a successful siding nailing project:
- Inspect the Siding: Examine the siding material for any defects or inconsistencies. Replace any damaged pieces before starting the installation.
- Layout and Measurement: Plan your siding layout and measure accurately. Mark reference lines and make any necessary layout marks to guide your nailing.
- Secure Siding: Ensure that the siding is securely attached to the substrate, and any underlying sheathing is in good condition. Loose or damaged siding should be reattached or replaced.
C. Loading Nails
Loading nails into your cordless siding nailer may vary depending on the model, but the general steps are as follows:
- Read the Manual: Always consult your nailer’s user manual for specific loading instructions. Each model may have unique loading mechanisms.
- Select Appropriate Nails: Use the recommended nail type and size for your specific project and nailer. Loading the wrong nails can lead to jams or improper fastening.
- Load the Magazine: Most cordless siding nailers feature a magazine that holds the nails. Slide the nails into the magazine, following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
D. Adjusting Depth and Firing Mode
Proper depth adjustment and firing mode selection ensure precise nailing:
- Depth Adjustment: Depending on your siding material and thickness, adjust the depth setting on your nailer to control how deeply the nails penetrate. Test on a scrap piece to find the optimal setting.
- Firing Mode: Some nailers offer different firing modes, such as single-shot and bump-fire. Choose the mode that suits your project and experience level. Single-shot mode is ideal for accuracy, while bump-fire mode allows for rapid nailing.
E. Proper Nailing Techniques
To achieve a clean and secure siding installation, follow these nailing techniques:
- Nail Placement: Position nails approximately 1 inch from the top and bottom edges of the siding, and evenly space them along the length. Avoid nailing too close to the edges to prevent splitting.
- Nailing Angle: Drive nails into the siding at a slight downward angle. This helps prevent the nails from protruding and ensures a tight fit.
- Consistent Pressure: Apply consistent pressure when nailing to avoid overdriving or underdriving the nails. Experiment on scrap pieces to get a feel for the right pressure.
F. Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular maintenance and cleaning keep your cordless siding nailer in peak condition:
- Lubrication: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for lubricating moving parts. Proper lubrication reduces wear and tear and ensures smooth operation.
- Cleaning: After each use, clean your nailer of debris and residue. Use compressed air to blow out dust and sawdust from the nailer’s interior.
- Storage: Store your cordless siding nailer in a dry, cool place, and if possible, in a protective case to prevent damage during transportation and storage.
Tips for Efficient Siding Nailing
A. Positioning and Alignment
To achieve a professional finish, focus on positioning and alignment:
- Start at a Reference Line: Begin nailing at a reference line, ensuring that your first piece is perfectly aligned. This sets the foundation for the entire siding installation.
- Check for Level: Use a level to ensure that each piece is horizontally level. Adjust as needed before nailing.
- Vertical Alignment: Maintain consistent vertical alignment to create a clean, visually pleasing finish.
B. Overlapping Siding
Properly overlapping siding prevents water infiltration and enhances the appearance:
- Overlap Joints: Ensure that horizontal joints overlap properly, following manufacturer recommendations for the specific siding type.
- End Joints: Align end joints carefully and avoid butting them together. Allow for expansion and contraction of the siding material.
C. Handling Different Siding Materials
Siding materials vary, and each requires specific handling:
- Wood Siding: Pre-drill holes near the edges to prevent splitting. Use stainless steel or galvanized nails to resist corrosion.
- Vinyl Siding: Be cautious not to overtighten the nails, as vinyl expands and contracts with temperature changes.
- Fiber Cement Siding: Use specialized siding nails designed for fiber cement to avoid cracking or breaking the material.
D. Nailing in Various Weather Conditions
Nailing in different weather conditions requires some adjustments:
- Cold Weather: In cold weather, allow siding materials to acclimate to the temperature and avoid nailing when they are extremely cold or brittle.
- Hot Weather: In hot weather, work in the cooler parts of the day to prevent overheating of the nailer and siding material.
By following these tips and techniques, you can efficiently and effectively use your cordless siding nailer for a successful siding project.
Cordless Siding Nailer Accessories
Cordless siding nailers can be powerful tools, but having the right accessories can make your work even more efficient and effective. In this section, we’ll explore both the necessary accessories and optional accessories that can enhance your functionality.
A. Necessary Accessories
When working with a cordless siding nailer, there are some essential accessories you should always have on hand to ensure safety and efficiency:
- Nails: The first and most obvious accessory you need is nails specifically designed for your siding nailer. Make sure to choose the right nail size and type for your project.
- Battery and Charger: Since you’re using a cordless nailer, a reliable battery and charger are a must. Invest in high-quality batteries to avoid frequent interruptions.
- Safety Gear: Safety should always come first. Necessary safety accessories include ear protection, eye protection, and a dust mask to shield yourself from debris and loud noise.
- Carrying Case: A durable carrying case or bag can help you keep your nailer and accessories organized and protected when not in use.
- Allen Wrench and Tools: These tools are essential for routine maintenance and unclogging jammed nails.
B. Optional Accessories for Enhanced Functionality
While the necessary accessories are vital for safe and efficient operation, some optional accessories can take your cordless siding nailer game to the next level:
- Depth Adjustment Tool: Some nailers come with built-in depth adjustment, but having an additional tool for fine-tuning depth can be extremely helpful for achieving the perfect countersink every time.
- Work Light: A work light attachment can illuminate your work area, making it easier to see your target and work in low-light conditions.
- Belt Hook: A belt hook attachment lets you hang your nailer on your tool belt, keeping it within easy reach while leaving your hands free for other tasks.
- No-Mar Tip: This accessory prevents the nailer from damaging the surface of your siding material. It’s especially useful when working with delicate or finished surfaces.
- Extended Magazine: If your project requires a high volume of nailing, an extended magazine can save you time by reducing the frequency of reloading.
- Lubrication Kit: Regularly lubricating your nailer can extend its lifespan. A lubrication kit typically includes oil and instructions for proper maintenance.
Cordless Siding Nailer Safety
While cordless siding nailers can significantly boost your productivity, they are powerful tools that demand respect and careful handling. In this section, we’ll delve into various aspects of safety when using these tools.
A. General Safety Guidelines
When using a cordless siding nailer, safety should be your top priority. Here are some general safety guidelines to keep in mind:
- Read the User Manual: Before using your cordless siding nailer, thoroughly read the user manual to understand its features, limitations, and recommended safety practices.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing: Dress in appropriate work attire, including long sleeves, work pants, and steel-toed boots to protect yourself from debris and potential nail ricochets.
- Maintain a Clean Workspace: Clear your workspace of clutter and debris to reduce tripping hazards and to ensure a safe working environment.
- Keep Others at a Safe Distance: Ensure that no one stands in your immediate working area, especially when nailing, to prevent accidents.
- Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the battery when the nailer is not in use to prevent accidental firing.
- Inspect Your Nailer: Before use, inspect your nailer for any damage or loose parts. Make sure it’s in good working condition.
- Practice Trigger Discipline: Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to fire. Never point the nailer at yourself or others.
- Be Mindful of Nail Direction: Pay attention to the direction of the nail ejection to avoid accidentally shooting a nail towards yourself or others.
- Use Two Hands: Whenever possible, use both hands to stabilize the nailer for greater control.
- Avoid Nailing into Unknown Surfaces: Be aware of what’s behind the material you’re nailing into to prevent unintended damage or injury.
B. Eye and Ear Protection
Your eyes and ears are particularly vulnerable when using cordless siding nailers due to the loud noise and the potential for flying debris. Here’s how to protect them:
- Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from flying debris and potential nail ricochets. Safety glasses with side shields offer extra protection.
- Ear Protection: The noise generated by cordless nailers can be damaging to your hearing. Invest in quality ear protection such as earplugs or earmuffs to reduce the risk of hearing damage.
C. Handling Batteries Safely
Cordless siding nailers rely on batteries, so it’s crucial to handle them safely to avoid accidents and extend their lifespan:
- Store Batteries Properly: When not in use, store your batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Charge in a Safe Area: Charge your batteries in a well-ventilated, non-flammable area, and avoid overcharging them, as it can lead to battery damage.
- Dispose of Old Batteries Responsibly: When your batteries are no longer holding a charge or functioning correctly, follow local regulations for proper disposal or recycling.
This comprehensive guide to cordless siding nailers has provided a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced DIY enthusiasts and professionals. We’ve explored the fundamentals of cordless siding nailers, from understanding their operation and advantages to selecting the right model and mastering their use. By following the safety precautions, maintenance guidelines, and efficient nailing techniques outlined in this guide, you can significantly enhance your siding projects’ productivity and precision. Additionally, we’ve covered troubleshooting common issues and offered insights into essential accessories, ensuring that you have all the tools and knowledge needed to succeed. Remember that safety should always be a top priority, from using protective gear to handling batteries responsibly. With this information at your disposal, you’re well-equipped to tackle any siding project confidently and efficiently. Whether you’re working on a home renovation, siding repair, or any other siding-related task, a cordless siding nailer can be your trusted companion. So, go forth, transform your spaces, and create stunning exteriors with the power of this versatile tool at your side.


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Forrest Vickery , Will Brittain - 'Everybody Wants Some' premiere at SXSW - Arrivals at Paramount Theater - Austin, Texas, United States - Saturday 12th March 2016 (1 Picture)
Forrest Vickery and Will Brittain
Photo credit: Arnold Wells
View All: 'Everybody Wants Some' premiere at SXSW
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Finally I finished my final assignments
And I am totally free now..
Wednesday I went to Genting with my collegemates.
I am so happy can go enjoy with them!
It's a really fun trip..
We played a lot of things in theme park.
But we also missed a lot of things cause it's raining in the afternoon =(
So we waited until the rain stopped then continued
I love to play Flying Coaster, Corkscrew and Spaceshot!
I miss them! And I miss the cool weather there too!
Haahaa.. Really is a enjoyable trip with all of you..
Here're some photos, just a few only cause we were too busy in playing and nobody take photos for us..

domain: hobby


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Blackmail, lies and secrecy feature heavily in this TV3 documentary, which follows the teenage daughter of the photographer killed in the 1985 bombing of Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior. Marelle Pereira was just eight when her father Fernando died after French Secret Service agents set off two bombs in Auckland. The boat was set to protest nuclear testing in French Polynesia. Now 18, Pereira and her mum travel to French Polynesia, France and Aotearoa to ask why the French carried out the attack. Pereira interviews Rainbow Warrior crew and former Kiwi PM David Lange.
A helmet cam records the claustrophobic reactions of a rookie mercenary (Elliot Travers) as an interplanetary combat raid goes wrong in Ferand Peek's debut short. Peek produced the one-shot DIY Gravity in Wellington over five years. Audio was recorded first, then Travers (shot in a special rig), then CGI effects were forged with the help of Miramar/Weta filmmaking crew. The result was touted by io9 doyen Annalee Newitz: “All we see of the world around him are reflections in his helmet, and yet the suspense is incredible. Plus, the story [is] surprisingly moving.”
June 1944. On a sabotage mission shortly before D-Day, a Kiwi Commando (Outrageous Fortune’s Craig Hall) sneaks into a German bunker on the Channel Islands. Inside he finds an SS officer who is an expert in the occult (Out of the Blue’s Matt Sunderland), much blood, and a mysterious lone woman who may not be what she seems. Shot in Wellington, the feature debut of effects man Paul Campion ratchets up the tension in the claustrophobic setting. The makeup effects — horned demons, bullet wounds and gore — are led by Weta veteran Sean Foote.

domain: entertainment


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For the second time in history since the annual awards began in 1929, the Oscars will be without a host.
ABC Entertainment president Karey Burke said this years’ pre-eminent Hollywood event would only have “presenters host the Oscars”.
The ceremony, happening on Feb 24th (Feb 25th in Australia) is televised by ABC, who is also closely involved in planning the telecast.
The Oscars host traditionally opens the awards with a monologue, which usually focuses on celebrities, the movie industry and modern cultural and political affairs.
Comedian Kevin Hart was set to host this years’ ceremony, however, he has stepped down from the role following the resurfacing of past homophobic tweets.
No replacement was announced.
Burke said the decision for the Oscars to go hostless this year was made after “the messiness” over Hart’s withdrawal.
She told reporters at the Television Critics Association meeting in the Los Angeles suburb of Pasadena: “After that, it was pretty clear that we were going to stay the course and just have presenters host the Oscars.
“We all got on board with that idea pretty quickly”.
The Oscars ceremony has gone without a host only once before in its 91-year history, in 1989.
Frameplay today announced its first global integration with Magnite to provide advertisers with the ability to buy intrinsic in-game advertising programmatically. The combination of Frameplay’s software developed for in-game advertising and Magnite’s scale and experience in programmatic technology across any format and screen provides advertisers with greater access to engaged audiences. Current RTB programmatic capabilities […]
Advertising spend on e-commerce platforms is set to rise sharply this year despite the global recession, reaching a total of $US58.5bn ($83bn). Advertising investment across e-commerce sites such as Amazon, Tmall and Rakuten, omnichannel retailers such as Walmart and Carrefour, and social commerce on platforms such as Pinduoduo and TikTok is set to increase 18.3 […]
Online insurance comparison website, Compare the Market Australia has appointed Emma Alberici as Chief Strategy, Government Relations and Communications Officer. Previously, Alberici was chief economics correspondent at the ABC, one of many senior positions she held during her 18 years with the organisation. Before this, she was a senior journalist at the Nine Network, where […]
VA Media has announced the launch of new YouTube content ID service for producers, production companies and film & television distributors. VA Media owns and manages some of the world’s largest movie and TV-based YouTube channels, including Movie Central– which boasts an impressive 20M views monthly. The newly announced fee-based service is designed to enable […]


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On this particular episode, the Rogues reviewed "The Imitation Game." It was a bit freaky. Perhaps not freaky enough to make it to The Odds Must be Crazy, but I listened to their take on the movie with interest. I generally disagreed with the Rogues positive review.
First, Benedict Cumberbatch, known for his modern portrayal of Sherlock Holmes on the BBC and as Khan in "Star Trek Into Darkness," was the best thing about the movie. Cumberbatch probably could play a loaf of bread in a elementary school production of the food pyramid and make it work.


AL6XN is a super-austenitic alloy, the most abundant element being iron. It is the most popular of the 6% molybdenum alloys. Common usages are in the food processing, pharmaceutical and biotech industries. In most environments, it shows superior corrosion resistance when compared to duplex alloys. Due to the lower nickel content, AL6XN fasteners are generally more economical than the high nickel alloy fasteners.
- Plate: ASTM A240, ASME A240
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“I know nothing about this,” said former National Security Advisor Susan Rice of federal surveillance of Donald Trump or his campaign-turned-transition team during the last year of the Obama administration.
In an interview aired March 22 with PBS NewsHour, Rice denied having any knowledge of what has been branded “incidental collection” of communications between Trump’s political teams and foreign state operatives.
In early February, The New York Times and The Washington Post coordinated with anonymous federal bureaucrats to undermine Trump’s former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn. Flynn subsequently resigned following claims that he misled Vice President Mike Pence regarding the nature of his communications with Russian Ambassador to the U.S. Sergey Kislyak; he did not advise Pence that sanctions on Russia had come up in conversation with Kislyak.
On Monday, Bloomberg’s Eli Lake reported that Rice requested the “unmasking” of identities of Americans whose communications had been “incidentally” surveilled by federal authorities. Citing anonymous federal officials “familiar with the matter,” he wrote:
White House lawyers last month learned that the former national security adviser Susan Rice requested the identities of U.S. persons in raw intelligence reports on dozens of occasions that connect to the Donald Trump transition and campaign, according to U.S. officials familiar with the matter.
The pattern of Rice’s requests was discovered in a National Security Council review of the government’s policy on “unmasking” the identities of individuals in the U.S. who are not targets of electronic eavesdropping, but whose communications are collected incidentally. Normally those names are redacted from summaries of monitored conversations and appear in reports as something like “U.S. Person One.”
Mike Cernovich first reported Susan Rice’s involvement in the “unmasking” of American identities “incidentally” surveilled by federal authorities on Sunday, connecting it to Rep. Devin Nunes’ (R.-Calif.) recent assertions:
The White House Counsel’s office identified Rice as the person responsible for the unmasking after examining Rice’s document log requests. The reports Rice requested to see are kept under tightly-controlled conditions. Each person must log her name before being granted access to them.
Upon learning of Rice’s actions, H. R. McMaster dispatched his close aide Derek Harvey to Capitol Hill to brief Chairman Nunes.
Political and news media observers will also recall that Rice was deployed by the Obama administration in 2012 to push a false narrative that the Islamic terrorist attack on the American diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya, was provoked by what she described as a “hateful [anti-Islam] video.” Occurring months before a presidential election, the incumbent President Barack Obama mobilized his administration to play down perceptions of his team’s negligence with respect to the attack that left four Americans dead.
H/T William A. Jacobson at Legal Insurrection
Follow Robert Kraychik on Twitter.


Antarctica reveals lost world frozen 14 million years ago
Relics of a prehistoric world have been found frozen deep inside Antarctica, scientists said today.
Researchers discovered mosses, beetles and midges that died and have remained in a natural deep-freeze for an incredible 14 million years.
The discovery shows that the continent was plunged into permanent cold in a relatively brief 200,000-year period.
Barren: Antarctica today. But the new findings show it supported vegetation 14 million years ago
Antarctic areas which are now utterly barren were once more like the tundra of northern Canada or Siberia, where frozen soil thaws annually and supports hardy plants, animals and insects.
US geoscientist Adam Lewis came across the remains of moss on a valley floor on a research trip with colleagues.
Further study uncovered remains of tiny crustaceans, small midges and beetles, and pollen from beech trees and plants.
'We knew we shouldn't expect to see something like that,' he said.
Because it was essentially freeze-dried, the moss still retained the soft tissues that would have been replaced by minerals if it had merely fossilised.
'All the details are still there,' said Dr Lewis, of North Dakota State University. 'These are actually the plant tissues themselves.'
Some mosses and insects have previously been found near the coast of Antarctica but the new discovery is far inland.
Scientists hope the findings - reported in a U.S. journal, the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences - will throw fresh light on the Earth's shifting climate system.
Dr Lewis said his findings show that climate had crossed a 'threshold' - cooling by 8°C in 200,000 years - which had killed off tundra plants and insects and turned Antarctica from periodically to permanently icy.
'You have to understand where these thresholds are,' he added, 'Because, if human beings are unfortunate enough to push climate over one of these thresholds, it could be a total catastrophe.'
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NLP FAQ's / Help Center
How to use the SCORE model with individuals?
To really get the best from the S.C.O.R.E. it needs to be more than a cerebral paper-and-pen exercise. Instead, lay the timeline on the floor and mark out Causes, Symptoms, Outcomes and Effects as spaces along it. Resources should be somewhere off the timeline.
The model will have more impact if the explorer physically steps into each location as they investigate it. This helps to physically associate the person into the state and frame of mind of each component of the model, making it easier to access all the information at each stage.
By walking through the sequence from Causes, through Symptoms and Outcomes to Effects, the explorer will begin to condition in a metaphorical sequence of moving from ‘problem’ to ‘solution’. They can step off the timeline and gather what they need from the Resource location any time it feels right.
The ‘Dancing S.C.O.R.E. Format‘ developed by Judith DeLozier takes this principle even deeper into the kinaesthetic realm, inviting the client to adopt the posture and movement that feels characteristic of each stage. By moving repeatedly through the sequence of postures from problem to solution, the client begins to internalise the direction of change ‘in the muscle’.
A skilled NLP practitioner will be able to make the process more effective by anchoring the ‘positive’ stages (Resources, Outcomes and Effects) as appropriate. You could also use embedded suggestion and hypnotic tonality in your questions to help the client associate more fully into these stages.

domain: psychology


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Colfax wrestlers ready to roll
A new head coach greeted the Bloomer-Colfax co-op wrestling team this year as Jim Poirier took over the top job from Clete Bohl. There are 12 seniors, three juniors, seven sophomores and nine freshmen competing for spots on a team that finished with a 5-11 record last year (4-4 in the Heart O’ North Conference).
Competing from Colfax this season are sophomores David Blanchard, Matt Shaw and Robert Rands while Jon Hayton is injured and will miss the season but is part of the team. Freshmen are Brady Simonson, Preston Klukas, Tucker Hovde and Stephen Snyder.
The team will begin competition Dec. 6 against Superior at home in Bloomer then will wrestle at the Eau Claire North Invitational Dec. 8.


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Financial cybercrime is on the rise and above all, there are some Interstate gangs that are targeting citizens at ATMs. The Mira Bhayandar-Vasai Virar (MBVV) police in Maharashtra have detected 16 cases with the arrest of four persons who distracted people at ATM centres and stole their money. But telephone money scams are yet to be controlled. In a crackdown on ATM frauds across Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli and nearby areas, the anti-extortion cell of Thane police arrested four members of an inter-district gang after solving eight such cases.
The accused used to trick women, senior citizens and teenagers on the pretext of helping them at the ATM centres and replacing their ATM cards, getting its PIN and using it to withdraw money. The gang had managed to withdraw lakhs of rupees from the ATM centres in this manner. A total of 101 ATM cards were seized from them by the police. The police have recovered Rs 70,000 in cash and Rs 4.06 lakh worth of vehicles and other items used by the gang to carry out the crime. The commoners are gullible targets and the police are sometimes most helpless. There was one television series called Jamtara – Sabka Number Ayega, it showed how this group of small-town young men run a lucrative phishing operation until a corrupt politician wants in on their scheme — and a cop wants to fight it.
In real life too there are youngsters who trap their targets through social engineering. There are a bunch of small-town young guns that operate a successful phishing racket. Phishing attacks, where a cybercriminal sends a deceptive message that’s designed to fool a user into providing sensitive information such as credit card numbers or to launch malware on the user’s system, are on the rise. There was a 61% increase in the rate of phishing attacks in the six months ending October 2022 compared to the previous year.
The attacks are also getting more sophisticated, and are spreading beyond emails to text messages and other forms of personal communication. Phishing is on the rise, and anyone who uses email, text messaging, and other forms of communication is a potential victim.
Fraudsters send messages over email, text or social media, posing as trusted organisations to trick people into handing over money or personal details. But who is most at risk, and what can we do to protect ourselves? New data have revealed half of the adults reported receiving a “phishing” message in the month before being asked. Those aged 25 to 44 years are most likely to be targeted, according to results from the Telephone-operated Crime Survey of England and Wales (TCSEW).
Traditionally sent via email, phishing involves messages from fraudsters posing as legitimate organisations to extract personal information, or money, from the victim. They have exploited significant events, including the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the rising cost of living, to target victims. There is also evidence of fraudsters taking advantage of widespread behavioural changes because of the pandemic, such as the rise in online shopping.
This includes a nine-fold rise in “advance fee fraud” (victims making upfront payments for goods or services which then do not materialise) and a 57% rise in “consumer and retail fraud” from pre-pandemic levels. Advance fee fraud is significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels
An October 2022 study by messaging security provider SlashNext analyzed billions of link-based URLs, attachments, and natural language messages in email, mobile and browser channels over a six-month period, and found more than 255 million attacks. That’s a 61% increase in the rate of phishing attacks compared with 2021. The study revealed that cybercriminals are shifting their attacks to mobile and personal communication channels to reach users. It showed a 50% increase in attacks on mobile devices, with scams and credential theft at the top of the list of payloads.
One of the iterations of phishing that people need to be aware of is spear phishing, a more targeted form of phishing that often uses topical lures. While it is not a new tactic, the topics and themes might evolve with the world or even seasonal events. During regional tax seasons, threat actors might similarly try to exploit users in the process of filing their taxes with phishing emails that contain tax themes in the subject line.

domain: law


text:
Jan 22, 2016 4:07 PM
Portsmouth woman indicted after prosecution says she gave phony pay stubs to get out on bail
PORTSMOUTH - A woman already in prison is facing new charges that she used fake pay stubs to get released on bail.
Danielle Rollins, 36, was indicted on two counts of falsifying evidence.
She is already serving prison time for stealing more than $108,800 from her boss.
Prosecuters said she submitted the pay stubs during a May 28 bail hearing.
Officials also say she submitted a fictional letter hoping it would influence a judge at her sentencing hearing on Dec. 14.


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State Department considers new endowment as Egypt extends emergency law
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton issued a mildly worded statement Tuesday criticizing the Egyptian government’s decision to extend its "state of emergency" another two years and urged Egypt to adhere to "legal principles that protect the rights of all citizens." Meanwhile, her department was preparing to enter into negotiations with Egypt over Cairo’s proposal for ...
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton issued a mildly worded statement Tuesday criticizing the Egyptian government's decision to extend its "state of emergency" another two years and urged Egypt to adhere to "legal principles that protect the rights of all citizens."
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton issued a mildly worded statement Tuesday criticizing the Egyptian government’s decision to extend its "state of emergency" another two years and urged Egypt to adhere to "legal principles that protect the rights of all citizens."
Meanwhile, her department was preparing to enter into negotiations with Egypt over Cairo’s proposal for a new $4 billion aid endowment that critics say would unfairly reward an authoritarian regime that has jailed or marginalized its opponents, rigged elections, and censored or manipulated the press for the nearly three decades that President Hosni Mubarak has been in power.
The State Department is still evaluating the proposal, but advocates of the endowment approach say that by setting American economic aid to Egypt for the next 10 years, the United States could build cooperation with the Egyptian government, show long-term U.S. commitment to helping the Egyptian people, and help Egypt develop key sectors of its civic infrastructure.
Critics, which include former Bush administration officials, human rights groups, and regional experts, say Egypt is attempting to secure aid outside of congressional oversight and without being compelled to make progress on democracy and human rights. They question why Egypt, which by all accounts has actually been backsliding on reform in recent years, should be singled out for such a unique and lucrative prize.
Egypt’s proposal (pdf), which was obtained by The Cable, seeks for aid to be given in a way that is "predictable and not related to conditionalities that may hamper implementation."
Under the Egyptian plan, about half the money would come from the U.S. government. The other half would largely be redirected from the Egyptian government’s debt payments to the U.S., another provision many see as highly unusual.
The State Department has prepared a counterproposal, which has not yet been presented to the Egyptians nor publicly released. A draft version (pdf) was obtained by The Cable. That draft suggests a much smaller endowment, about $300 million over five years, and includes several conditions, such as that the endowment be housed within a U.S.- or internationally based non-profit corporation and that the U.S. be able to terminate the program if it does not meet clear measures of success.
"We’re still finalizing our internal deliberations and our hope is that we can present our counterproposal to the Egyptians in the near future," a State Department official told The Cable. "We see this proposal as an opportunity to work and cooperate with Egypt in a field that would directly help the Egyptian people."
A long engagement
Originally, large amounts of U.S. economic aid to Egypt were proffered as part of the Camp David package in 1978, with both Egypt and Israel being guaranteed 10 years of both military and economic aid as part of the overall U.S.-brokered peace agreement.
Both Egypt and Israel renewed those packages twice, but in 2006 the Egyptians decided to propose a new model of economic aid — the endowment — which was heavily supported at the time by then Ambassador to Egypt Francis J. Ricciardone and Faiza Abu El Naga, who runs Egypt’s Ministry of International Cooperation.
J. Scott Carpenter, who was deputy assistant secretary of state for Near East affairs from 2004-2007, was a key player on this issue toward the end of the Bush administration. "The Bush administration was working very hard with the Egyptians to come up with a new 10-year proposal," he said. "The challenge was trying to figure out what to do with the money."
But no agreement was reached and appropriations were made year to year after that — inviting unwanted scrutiny and amendments from Congress, which the Egyptians resisted. In its 2009 budget, the outgoing Bush administration cut Egypt’s economic aid, some of which was slated for democracy-related projects, from $415 million to $200 million.
Meanwhile, in Foggy Bottom, work on the endowment continued.
"When no one was looking, the State Department managed to move the process forward to the extent that when the Obama administration came in, they were predisposed to reduce the friction between the U.S. and Egypt by going along with this," Carpenter said.
The Obama team worked with Congress to reduce the amount of democracy-related funding from $50 million to $20 million. The first stage of the proposed endowment, as envisioned by the Egyptians, would be called the Mubarak-Obama Education, Science, and Technology Fund (pdf), which they would want to be rolled into the larger endowment later on.
Carpenter said the Bush team had discounted education funding because that sector was so large the endowment funding would have little impact. The State Department official said education funding could be a good focus because "it would really benefit U.S. and Egyptian interests and would be seen by the Egyptian people as something our governments are doing cooperatively that benefits them."
Mubarak’s slush fund?
Outside experts, human rights groups, and lawmakers are also raising questions about the proposed endowment and what it says about the U.S. approach to the Egyptian government and its people.
"The (proposed) endowment’s lack of a clear governing structure is cause for concern," wrote Stephen McInerney, director of advocacy at the Project on Middle East Democracy in a recent article for Foreign Policy‘s Middle East Channel. "Congress ought to be wary of allocating resources while leaving those details to be determined after the fact, which would risk turning the endowment into the slush fund that critics fear."
In fact, that’s exactly what Congress did last year, when it passed an appropriations bill that authorized $50 million to start the endowment without any strings attached. The money was put in by Sen. Judd Gregg, R-NH, the ranking Republican on the foreign operations appropriations subcommittee. Gregg had previously but unsuccessfully proposed $500 million for the endowment.
It’s unclear exactly why Gregg is pushing the endowment so strongly. A Gregg staffer argued that Congress could always rescind the money in the future and that increased cooperation benefits both sides. But the New Hampshire senator’s advocacy is opposed by several lawmakers who are critical of Egypt’s human rights record, including Sen. Sam Brownback, R-KS, and Rep. Frank Wolf, R-VA.
Tom Malinowski, Washington advocacy director for Human Rights Watch, argued that shifting the bulk of U.S. economic assistance to an endowment will inevitably be seen in Egypt as empowering Mubarak.
"I don’t think there’s a way to do it that avoids that perception in the mind of Egyptians," he said, "Everything the U.S. does in its relationship with Egypt should be to promote political and economic reform … and to convince the Egyptian people we are in line with their aspirations."
The Egyptian proposal comes as the gap between the Egyptian government and its people is getting wider, warned the Carnegie Endowment’s Michele Dunne, who worked on Egypt both at State and on the National Security Council. "This would remove congressional oversight and place the aid into the hands of the Egyptian government, which of course is why they are so keen on it."
Josh Rogin covers national security and foreign policy and writes the daily Web column The Cable. His column appears bi-weekly in the print edition of The Washington Post. He can be reached for comments or tips at email@example.com.
Previously, Josh covered defense and foreign policy as a staff writer for Congressional Quarterly, writing extensively on Iraq, Afghanistan, Guantánamo Bay, U.S.-Asia relations, defense budgeting and appropriations, and the defense lobbying and contracting industries. Prior to that, he covered military modernization, cyber warfare, space, and missile defense for Federal Computer Week Magazine. He has also served as Pentagon Staff Reporter for the Asahi Shimbun, Japan's leading daily newspaper, in its Washington, D.C., bureau, where he reported on U.S.-Japan relations, Chinese military modernization, the North Korean nuclear crisis, and more.
A graduate of George Washington University's Elliott School of International Affairs, Josh lived in Yokohama, Japan, and studied at Tokyo's Sophia University. He speaks conversational Japanese and has reported from the region. He has also worked at the House International Relations Committee, the Embassy of Japan, and the Brookings Institution.
Josh's reporting has been featured on CNN, MSNBC, C-Span, CBS, ABC, NPR, WTOP, and several other outlets. He was a 2008-2009 National Press Foundation's Paul Miller Washington Reporting Fellow, 2009 military reporting fellow with the Knight Center for Specialized Journalism and the 2011 recipient of the InterAction Award for Excellence in International Reporting. He hails from Philadelphia and lives in Washington, D.C. Twitter: @joshrogin
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BEIJING — China’s shaky financial recovery in the coronavirus outbreak is gaining power as customers come back to shopping malls and auto dealerships while the United States and Europe suffer painful contractions.
Growth in the planet’s approximate economy accelerated to 4.9percent above a year before from the 3 months ending in September, up from the last quarter 3.2 percent, official statistics showed Monday. Retail spending rebounded to over pre-virus amounts for the very first time and mill output rose, boosted by demand for exports of masks and additional medical equipment.
China is the only major market that’s forecast to grow this season whilst action in the USA, Europe, and Japan shrinks.
The restoration is”receding and getting less reliant” on authorities’ stimulation, Julian Evans-Pritchard of Capital Economics said in a report. He said the expansion is”still quickening” going in the current quarter.
Most Asian stock exchange s climbed on the information of greater activity in China, the largest trading partner for everyone its neighbors.
China’s benchmark Shanghai Composite Index dropped 0.7percent on expectations that the comparatively strong data will lower the odds of further stimulation which may increase share rates.
China, in which the pandemic started in December, became the first significant market to return to growth following the ruling Communist Party announced the disease in check in March and started reopening factories, offices, and shops.
The market contracted by 6.8percent in the first quarter, its worst performance since the mid-1960s, before rebounding.
The market”continued the continuous recovery,” that the National Bureau of Statistics said in a report. But it cautioned, “that the global environment remains complex and intense.”
Police have raised curbs on travel and company however people to authorities and other public buildings are still assessed for the virus’s most telltale fever. Travelers coming from overseas need to be quarantined for 2 weeks.
Last week, over 10 million individuals were examined for the virus at the southern port of Qingdao following 12 instances were discovered there. That broke a two-month streak-free of virus broadcasts reported in China.
Industrial production climbed 5.8% over precisely the same quarter this past year, a noticeable improvement over the first half of the 1.3percent regeneration. Chinese exporters are taking market share from overseas competitors that nevertheless are hampered by anti-virus controls.
Retail sales climbed 0.9percent above a year before. Online trade rose 15.3 percent.
In a signal demand is quickening, sales in September rose 3.3 percent.
“China’s recovery in personal consumption is gathering momentum,” stated Stephen Innes of AxiCorp in a report.
Economists say China is very likely to recuperate faster than other significant savings as a result of the ruling party’s choice to inflict the most intensive anti-disease steps ever. Those briefly cut off most accessibility to cities having a total of 60 million individuals.
The International Monetary Fund is predicting China’s economic growth at 1.8percent this year although the U.S. market is predicted to shrink by 4.3 percent. The IMF anticipates a 9.8percent contraction in France, 6% in Germany, and 5.3percent in Japan.
Private sector analysts state just as much as 30 percent of China’s urban workforce, or around 130 million individuals, might have lost their jobs at least briefly.
The ruling party promised in May to invest $280 billion on fulfilling goals such as creating 9 million new jobs. However, it’s prevented joining the USA and Japan in rolling out stimulation packages of $1 trillion or more because of concern about adding to already high debt.


Ruger Super Redhawk Standard 454 Casull 7.5″ Barel Hogue Tamer Monogrip 6rd
KSRH-7 Super Redhawk .454 Casull Caliber 7.5 Inch Barrel Satin Stainless Finish 6 Round
Perfect handgun for scoped big-game hunting. Hammer spur has been lowered for better scope clearance and easy cocking. Integral scope mounts and one inch stainless-steel rings are included. Triple locking cylinder. Black Hogue Tamer Monogrips. Ramp front and adjustable rear sights. Hammer forged barrel. Satin stainless finish. Includes hard plastic case.
The potent Ruger Super Redhawk revolvers are popular among hunters, metallic silhouette shooters and those looking for an added level of safety when outdoors in dangerous game country. Ruger Super Redhawks are available in standard satin stainless or the unique low glare target grey.
Ruger Super Redhawk revolvers are strong handguns that easily withstand the stresses imposed by the calibers for which they are chambered.Category : RevolversType : RevolverAction : Single/DoubleCaliber : 454 CasullBarrel Length : 7.5″Capacity : 6Hammer Style : SpurredGrips : Hogue Tamer Monogrip BlackSights : Ramp Front, Adjustable RearWeight : 53 ozFrame Description : Stainless
Ruger Super Redhawk
Unit of Measure:


2017 Mercedes-Benz E300 4Matic 30-Day Test Verdict
Evaluating the extended stay
Our 30-day stint with the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E300 4Matic included commutes along broken city streets, family excursions into rural communities, and highway journeys across the great state of Michigan. This extended stay was valuable, allowing us to properly dissect the technically-sophisticated, all-new midsize Mercedes and assess if a four-cylinder gasoline engine can actually work in an E-Class.
Let's deal with the elephant in the room, the engine, straight away. The new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and 9-speed automatic combination in the E300 works well in normal driving. There's only the occasional low-speed hesitation that annoys, when the engine is caught off boost and the transmission has chosen too tall of a ratio. Pushing the Mercedes harder does reveal one other negative. The old entry-level E-Class, the E350, delivered 302 hp from its naturally aspirated, 3.5-liter V-6. Two extra gears in the E300's transmission can't hide a loss of 61 horsepower or the slight drone of the four-cylinder engine during heavier throttle applications. The relaxed nature of the E300 combined with impressive low-end torque means this won't likely be an issue for less-sporting buyers in most driving condition, but we still wish Mercedes also offered a mid-range, luxury-focused E-Class sedan like the E400 in the States instead of jumping from the E300 straight to the upcoming 396-hp Mercedes-AMG E43. Audi has the A6 3.0T and BMW offers the 535i, but the E43 is a BMW 550i and Audi S6 competitor. At least Mercedes will sell the 329-hp, turbocharged V-6 E400 4Matic wagon in the USA starting in early 2017.
Chassis-wise, we'd need to directly compare the optional $1900 air suspension-equipped E300, like our test car, to a standard, steel-sprung car before making a final call on the recommended setup. Our 18-inch-wheel-equipped E-Class offered impressive isolation and body control over rough roads, especially at lower speeds. Higher speeds bring along a bit too much of a floaty, pillow-like feel. Stiffening up the suspension to one of the two sportier settings via the various drive modes helps, but we'd prefer a dedicated suspension button for quick adjustments. Overall, chassis grip is impressive and the E-Class will dance quite impressively when pushed on the back roads. but as we noted in the intro story, our test car carried Euro-spec performance tires. We'll see how the standard run-flat, all-season tires fitted to all U.S. E300 models alter the chassis feel and performance.
Then we come to the advanced technology in the new E-Class—most importantly the optional semi-autonomous Driver Assistance Package Plus. Bundled into the $10,400 Premium 3 package, this radar cruise control on steroids allows extended no-hands driving by adding the ability to follow the path of the car in front instead of just relying on road markings to automatically steer the car. Additionally, the E300 is able to change lanes without manual steering input when the driver activates a turn signal and the blind spot assist system confirms there isn't a vehicle in the adjacent lane. The overall system works quite well but it's important to view it more as a group of features designed to help the driver from a safety and fatigue aspect versus proper autonomy. Like the systems presently offered by other car companies, you still very much need to pay attention and be aware of your surroundings. The new Mercedes setup is another small step towards full autonomy, but we have a long way to go.
Fiddling around with this technology is done within a lovely and cosseting cabin. Our minor complaints about Mercedes burying too many functions into the infotainment screen versus fitting dedicated buttons didn't change by month's end. Sure, we figured out how to get to most of the features somewhat effectively but we still would prefer choosing the next music track or picking a radio preset via a button versus a multi-step process using one of the three systems fitted by Mercedes for controlling the infotainment screen. Speaking of, we found ourselves using the traditional rotary controller the majority of the time, but the centrally mounted touchpad and thumb controllers on the steering wheel both have their place and certain users may prefer their function. It's nice to have choices. Overall, we love the quality and aesthetic design of the interior in new E-Class but we wish it wasn't such a stylistically-led progression compared to the extremely functional layout in the old car.
It's clearly apparent after a month with the new E-Class that the BMW 5-Series and, to a lesser degree, the Audi A6, are both the sportier options in the class. That's nothing new and should surprise few. Mercedes' traditional lazy throttle pedal remains in the E300, as does the more relaxed transmission calibration. These aren't negatives, per se, as they fit the long-standing character of the E-Class—a character that we quite appreciate.
The Mercedes is a very refined and quiet automobile, with an unmistakable depth of engineering. Some may complain about the lack of a V6 engine in the base E-Class but the off-idle grunt of the turbocharged engine fits the E300 nicely in the majority of driving conditions. Both BMW and Audi have long offered a gasoline four-cylinder engine in this midsize luxury car segment, and it was only a matter of time before the pursuit of fuel economy standards forced the company carrying the three-pointed star to follow suit in the U.S. market. Remember, it's the lemming-like Germans we're talking about. The key is that the new E300 is still 100% a Mercedes through and through and stays true to what makes the E-Class such an impressive automobile to live with day-to-day.
2017 Mercedes-Benz E300 4Matic Specifications
|Price:||$55,575 (base), $72,245 (as tested)|
|Engine:||2.0L turbo DOHC 16-valve I-4/241 hp @ 5500 rpm, 273 lb-ft @ 1300 rpm|
|Layout:||4-door, 5-passenger, front-engine, AWD sedan|
|EPA Mileage:||22/29/24 mpg (city/hwy/combined)|
|L x W x H:||193.8 x 72.9 x 57.8 in|
|0-60 MPH:||6.3 sec|
|Top Speed:||130 mph|


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Who’d have thought the M4 and V4 sale would last a whole month? It used to be my entire post would change daily but during June there have been only things added and very little dropping off. Even the longest sales and Fast Grab items that have been stuck there forever will come to an end though.
The only new additions to the store so fare today are the Platinum Club items — which are very reasonably priced even if you are in the PC+ beta, so you can breathe a sigh of relief there. I decided to try it out and make up my own mind. I knew what I was letting myself in for, having followed the forum discussions, and so far I’m happy enough. Yes, prices of $1.99 items have jumped, but many not by much, and the extra coupons were welcome. However, I know some were quick to join in the expectation that the ‘plus’ meant only benefits, and the price changes to the $1.99 products came as an unpleasant surprise. It will be interesting to see what the verdict is from DAZ at the end of it all.
I must be up too early as there’s also a flash sale on Thorne this morning, but it’s not quite right yet. If you are an early bird like me you’ll need to wait for the pricing on that one to be fixed. Thorne is the creator of all those big-eyed cuties which make perfect faeries, and also the popular head and body resource kits for all 3 of the latest generations. I picked up an older character of hers yesterday (Princess) for only a couple of dollars, which is a complete bargain in anyone’s money. I did have some trouble locating the files, which were in character presets and didn’t have the usual dials (I think the character pre-dated a lot of Genesis conventions) but the skin texture is lovely.
Fast Grab — not yet changed from yesterday’s selection; it might change later but then again when it features high-value items like the M5 Pro Suite they tend to stay there a few days.
Get the newest 3d model giveaway from the Freebies Page.
Find the nitty-gritty of stacking sales on the Current Promotions Page
On Sale Today on DAZ3D: Wednesday 25th
|Start||End||Deal||Model||Vendor||Price USD||You Save|
|1st||30th||Monthly Freebie||Tubo Hotel||Forbidden Whispers, FWDesign||Free for PC||$16.95|
|24th||30th||Weekly Freebie||The Chair Collection||ARTCollaborations||Free*||$6.95|
|25th||25th||Flash Sale||Entire Store||Thorne||Various||60%|
|24th||25th||Gift Card Discount||Gift Cards||DAZ3D||$50, $100, $200||$3, $12, $36|
|24th||25th||Bundle Sale||Victoria 6 Pro Bundle||DAZ3D||$62.48 ($43.73)||50% (65% PC)|
|24th||25th||Bundle Sale||Victoria 6 Starter Bundle||DAZ3D||$39.98 ($27.98)||50% (65% PC)|
|24th||25th||Category Sale||Victoria 6 Related Items||DAZ3D||Various||50%|
|24th||25th||Bundle Sale||Victoria 5 Pro Bundle||DAZ3D||$24.99 ($17.49)||80% (86% PC)|
|24th||25th||Bundle Sale||Victoria 5 Starter Bundle||DAZ3D||$13.99 ($9.79)||80% (86% PC)|
|24th||25th||Category Sale||Victoria 5 Related Items||DAZ3D||Various||60%|
|24th||25th||Fast Grab||Michael 5 Pro Suite||DAZ3D||$59.99||$139.96|
|24th||25th||Fast Grab||Michael 5 Pro Bundle||DAZ3D||$37.49||$87.46|
|24th||25th||Fast Grab||Unshaven Bundle for Genesis||DAZ3D||$11.99||$27.96|
|24th||25th||Fast Grab||Manly Men M5||DAZ3D||$6.89||$16.06|
|24th||25th||Fast Grab||Aiden for M5||DAZ3D||$5.99||$13.96|
|24th||25th||Fast Grab||James for M5||DAZ3D||$5.99||$13.96|
|23rd||25th||Bundle Sale||Michael 6 Pro Bundle||DAZ3D||$74.97 ($52.48)||40% (58% PC)|
|23rd||25th||Bundle Sale||Michael 6 Starter Bundle||DAZ3D||$47.97 ($33.58)||40% (58% PC)|
|23rd||25th||Category Sale||Michael 6 Related Products||Various||Various||50%|
|21st||25th||Half Price||M4 Clone for G2M||Slosh||$9.47||50% Off|
|21st||25th||Half Price||V4 Clone for G2F||MallenLane||$7.47||50% Off|
|12th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Diane||Various||80%|
|11th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Arien||Various||80%|
|10th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Luthbel||Various||80%|
|9th||25th||Fast Grab||Starla Hair||DAZ3D||$7.19||$16.76|
|9th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||bucketload3d||Various||80%|
|8th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||4blueyes||Various||80%|
|7th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Dorkati||Various||80%|
|4th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Surreality||Various||80%|
|4th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Predatron||Various||80%|
|3rd||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||xenic101||Various||80%|
|2nd||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Lyoness||Various||80%|
|2nd||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Mada||Various||80%|
|1st||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Thorne||Various||80%|
|31st||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Silver||Various||80%|
|31st||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Muscleman||Various||80%|
|30th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||FWArt||Various||80%|
|30th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Virtual_World||Various||80%|
|29th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||-esha-||Various||80%|
|29th||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Orestes Graphics||Various||80%|
|28th May||25th||Artist Sale||Selected M4/V4 Items||Raiya||Various||80%|
|26th May||25th||Category Sale||1103 Victoria4 Items||Various||Various||80% (86% PC)|
|26th May||25th||Category Sale||343 Michael4 Items||Various||Various||80% (86% PC)|
|27th May||25th June||Fast Grab||Pure Hair Punk||DAZ3D||$4.49||$10.46|
New To Platinum Club this Week: June 25th – July 1st
If you are trying out the Platinum Club + beta (me too) you might have been worried about this week’s pricing. However, the difference is small and more than made up for by the extra coupons, so no need to stop buying up new stuff that catches your eye.
- Vintage Fayre by Sarsa. Beautiful Sarsa texturing work gives this PC dress 2 gorgeous new looks with lace, ribbons and floaty sleeves. You do need to own the Fayre for Genesis/G2F dress.
- Summery Feel for Emotions by Moyra. This is so pretty and I just wish I owned the Emotions outfit these textures are for. It was too gothic-looking for me, but Moyra’s Japanese-inspired textures give it a completely new look.
- Fairy Poses for Genesis 2 Females by Cake One. 15 varied poses make it easy to bring a fairy look to any of your Genesis 2 girls and women. Several flying and standing poses, plus kneeling and leaping.
- Electrocar by petipet. Something different after all that femininity – a rugged and realistic cargo trailer that will fit right into any modern or futuristic scene. Great detailing and it comes with driver poses (M4 and Genesis) too!


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Reef Travel :: For the adventurous world travelers...
Now that you have done your dive course come and travel with Reef Divers and explore the wonders of the underwater world with us.
Reef Divers travels to all the major diving spots in South Africa and the rest of the World.
If you know what you want - Reef Divers will get you there!
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For those divers who know what they want, book with us for tailor made excurtions.
For those who don't know and are new to diving, have a look at our travel pages and contact us.


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LONDON: UK-based international humanitarian charity Penny Appeal has announced that it has partnered with the Beirut Marathon Association and their “Right to Run” initiative to create a platform that would support children of all backgrounds in Lebanon.
Ridwana Wallace-Laher, Penny Appeal’s CEO, attended the press conference in Lebanon to kick off the initiative, the charity said in a statement on Wednesday.
“The weekend witnessed the launch of an inspiring program that promotes fitness, empowerment, and equality for all, with a special focus on underprivileged communities,” the charity added.
The “Right to Run” series is an annual celebration organized by the Beirut Marathon Association, which also champions gender equality and the need for a more inclusive society.
The program includes a range of races and activities, bringing together children aged 7 to 17 of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
“United by their shared commitment to breaking barriers and advocating for inclusion, these young runners are set to make a powerful impact in the future,” the charity said. “Penny Appeal is proud to be the lead sponsor in the delivery of this project, contributing toward our shared vision for a more inclusive society.”
It also said the event was “a bittersweet moment” for Wallace-Laher, who was in Beirut for the second time since the explosion at the port in August 2020.
“It only took a few minutes for the blast to destroy large portions of the city and cause mass devastation, but the people of Lebanon had been experiencing hardship and neglect for years before this tragedy occurred,” Penny Appeal stated.
A large amount of ammonium nitrate stored at the Port of Beirut exploded on Aug. 4, killing at least 218 people, injuring 7,000, leaving nearly 300,000 people homeless, and causing $15 billion in property damage.
As part of the charity’s Disaster Response Team, Wallace-Laher was on the ground delivering critical aid in the days following the tragedy.
In the aftermath, Penny Appeal stated that with its partners, the charity was able to help 23,691 people in Lebanon, delivering 21,000 hot meals, 7,080 food packs and 2,330 hygiene kits. The aid teams also provided 500 medical consultations, as well as shelter and community psychosocial support.
“Three years later, Ridwana is back in Beirut, remembering the lives that were lost in the 2020 blast while working toward building futures and opening opportunities for generations to come,” Penny Appeal stated.
Wallace-Laher reportedly said at the press conference on Tuesday: “As I stand before you in this beautiful city of Beirut, I am reminded of the heartbreaking scenes I witnessed firsthand in 2020 at the site of the explosion, and my heart is broken as I remember all of those who were affected by this horrific tragedy.”
“Out of such a horrific calamity, however, we also saw the very best of communities, with everyone coming together to help, support, and rebuild the lives of those affected.
“The love, strength of community, and unparalleled compassion that I witnessed in Lebanon have stayed with me ever since, and I’m really grateful to all of you for allowing me and Penny Appeal the opportunity to come back to Beirut today for the ‘Right to Run’ 2023,” Wallace-Laher added.

domain: sociology


text:
Ferguson confident Tevez will stay
"He (Tevez) should be here next season, I certainly hope so," manager Alex Ferguson told reporters.
"I think he genuinely wants to stay and that's something we are trying to work towards. I've told him that repeatedly and there's not much more I can do."
Media reports from Tevez's homeland this week suggested the player was unhappy at being left out by the Premier League leaders for some important games and may find a new team for next season.
"Of course we are vulnerable because he is on loan, no question about that," added Ferguson. "That is our weakness."
However, the manager said Tevez had been given a key role at United and hoped the forward acknowledged the part he had played in their success.
"We are where we are, six games left in the Premier League and at least two games in the Champions League. Hopefully at the end of the season he'll realise he has made a big contribution," said Ferguson.
"That is what we say to all the players. When you deal with the squad I have got, and they are all internationals, at the end of the season if we have won something they should all feel they have made a contribution to that success."
Champions United are three points clear at the top of the table and have six matches remaining, including a game in hand on second-placed Liverpool.
They have also won the League Cup, with Tevez playing from the start against Tottenham Hotspur in the final at Wembley, and face Arsenal next week in the semi-finals of the Champions League.
Tevez has played 24 of 32 Premier League games, including eight as substitute, but did not start against Inter Milan or Porto in the Champions League although he came off the bench to score against the Portuguese in the quarter-final first leg at Old Trafford.
"Whether the games he has played are important games or not is a different question but he has played in quite a few big games," said Ferguson.
"I don't want him to be unhappy because he is an important player for us.
"The difficulty is when you've got the options I've got. I bought another striker in (Dimitar) Berbatov, as well as having the option of playing (Cristiano) Ronaldo as a striker.
"You create problems for yourself because all good players want to play in every game but they can't play in every game in this league, it's impossible."
Tevez is hugely popular with United fans, a minority of whom jeered Berbatov in the midweek home league win over Portsmouth, and his work rate has not gone unnoticed by Ferguson.
"He does give fantastic effort," said the manager. "That is one of his best qualities.
"He is a tiger, he fights for every ball, he holds it up well, he is a handful to play against, we know that, but I go back to the point he has played more minutes than any of the other players up front and I think if he looked at that he would think differently."

domain: game


text:
What is it with people and their high horse?
I have seen plenty of posts over the pas three or four days about the new movie "sensation." I don't think I need to say which movie because only one movie currently in theaters is gaining this kind of double edged attention.
There are the fans of the book who are flocking in droves to see the movie. Some are so obsessed with the books and their, so-called, "brilliance" that they do not want to even acknowledge the existence of any negative review. Sometimes even the best written book has a horrible screen adaptation. For me the prime example of such a case is "The Sheltering Sky." The book was a piece of literary brilliance. Paul Bowles captured a kind of angst that besieged two lost souls who wandered through Africa. The movie, unfortunately was simply lost. Even with Debra Winger and John Malkovich as their leads, the movie was a major flop.
Fifty Shades of Gray has nowhere near the acting quality in their cast and the book is poorly written from a technical standpoint and from the standpoint of art. Reading some of the paragraphs is like reading short stories I wrote in sixth grade; except Shades was not written that well.
On the other side of this debate are the right wingers who once again feel themselves justified in condemning those people who like this book series and the move for their "indefensible" choice to support "domestic violence."
Look, we get it, anyone who has sex before they are married, or thinks about sex or does anything other than missionary is an evil person doomed to rot in hell for their lack of morals. Yes, this makes the religious right feel, well, right and the rest of us condemned.
Here's the thing, though, while you are all feeling very good about your self-righteous, sanctimonious bullshit, you fail to even comprehend the topic to which you refer - domestic violence. You haven't actually read the book, or seen the movie, yet you condemn its message. How is that possible? Simple. You regurgitate what your pastor/preacher says without daring to spend even a moment of reflection on the topic.
Domestic violence is atrocious. I am almost fifty years old (more irony?) and have never hit another person in anger; man or woman. This movie is not about domestic violence, nor is the book. It is about a topic that most right wing Christians dare not take the time to accept as a legitimate sexual choice for some people; BDSM. These people refuse to accept that there are subsets of people who actually enjoy this time of lifestyle.
Like it or not, this is a lifestyle choice that many, many people make. It is called "informed consent" and it is legitimate. Your unwillingness to accept it notwithstanding, as someone married to a woman who suffered REAL domestic violence, it is insulting to me personally that you lump this lifestyle choice into that category.
News flash religious right, separation of church and state means that you do not get to set the rules of justice for this nation based on your personal religious views. Your puritanical view on sexual mores does not exclude the existence of other views. You do not make the rules and you do not get the right to condemn the choices of others.
I am a Christian. And, in my Bible, I think I read somewhere that only God gets to pass judgment on others for their sins. Take your puritanical bullshit back to the 1690's where it belongs and let the rest of the world live their life as they see fit. That is freedom, your way is spiritual bondage.

domain: literature


An evil is stalking the world now that wasn’t here when Irealised i was a player. Maybe it’s been here all along but as young I never saw it lurking close to the cotton fields of north Alabama. We knew what the devil was of course, from to be able to the West Huntsville Baptist Church weekly morning and evening, nevertheless i don’t think it entered our minds to think he was walking down the same road as mankind.
During WWII, a gun called the Liberator was dropped in the tens of thousands into enemy terrority by america. Over a million of these nifty little pistols were made at a cost of $2.10 each adjusted to your USD today it was probably $150.00 each. The pistols were single shot and came with I believe ten rounds of bullets. They shot the heavy hitting, slow moving .45 ACP with full jacket ball ammo. Weapon was good for someone simply up on the German or Japanese soldier and execute them using a round along with the head. The rounds would penetrate the helmets used at the time.
A slightly heavier and larger diameter bullet would solve the thing is without sacrificing sufficient velocity and therefore trajectory. If Ordinance foregoes politics and incredibly try’s execute the right thing, Believe that they should come lets start on the same conclusion. Suggest other thing they need is to minimize that stupid crimp in the inkjet cartridge. It was supposed to stop people from shooting street cartridges in the full auto M-16, but we all know 410 ammo how easy it is to modify.
Lower plasma energy: A lot of the plasma weapons in Halo 4 use much more energy than their Halo Reach equivalents. The plasma pistol is among the list of weapons most affected this particular change; both single and overcharged shots consume more and more energy. Conserve energy by charging the plasma pistol as low as possible before shooting. Even if you do this, you will need to swap for about a fresh plasma pistol frequently in Halo 4 trailer than in Halo Reach out to.
To do this, head to your local gun shop or hunting outfitter and test several different brands of shotguns. To test the weapon, pull it to your shoulder and tuck it into your shoulder. Never point the muzzle towards anyone if. Only point it within a safe direction, and check to positive that the gun moves in place easily.
35 Remington ammo and effective Nerf gun accessory allows you to connect 2 of your N-Strike clips together. These ammo holders come standard with each one of the N-Strike blasters that use a clip; similar to the Longshot, Recon, Longstrike and Deploy.
Maggie and Bill for you to make a grand jury appearance on a number of sales cases they made previously. Drug always head to the grand jury rather this normal court system during which the facts and circumstances are presented to be able to Magistrate judge. The assistant prosecuting attorney presenting scenario must call witnesses and offer the evidence seized or purchased in the preliminary hearing. This often involves the testimony with the undercover Examiner.for all the world to see. In order to protect the identity for the undercover Detective, drug cases are always referred on the grand jury where the situation will go directly to your Circuit Court level and bypass the preliminary hearing before a Magistrate judge.
#7. In the event you may think you can sell anything you are not using in the moment, you can definitely find you need those same items later, so to be able to degree it may be better to store onto certain mats temporarly while. It may be worth it to design a bank alt to mail all the stuff toddler give up and can’t use.


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A never-seen-before phenomenon has been observed by NASA scientists: Scientists have observed a change in the way water is produced on a comet.
The comet called Lovejoy, aka C/2014 Q2, which lies in the Oort cloud, was analysed by NASA scientists from the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland in partnership with Hawaii's W M Keck Observatory on Mauna Kea, according to a NASA statement.
The cohort of researchers examined the comet at infrared wavelengths a few days after it passed through its perihelion — the closest distance to the sun.
The research team focused at the water present on Lovejoy, and calculated the amount of water it released while producing a heavier form of water (2H2O) known as deuterium oxide (also known as HDO), which comprises more hydrogen isotope deuterium.
"A hydrogen atom has one proton, but when it also includes a neutron, that heavier hydrogen isotope is called deuterium," the NASA statement said.
The researchers found a chemical fingerprint by evaluating the D to H ratio; which helped them find out from where these space rocks have originated in the Oort cloud blanketing the young sun during the early days of the solar system.
The D to H ratio also helps in finding out how much of Earth's water has come from asteroids and comets thaat have struck our planet.
These findings were compared with those of another team made before Lovejoy reached its perihelion.
The researchers used ground-, as well as space-based telescopes and detected a difference. It was found that the levels of water remained constant, but the levels of heavy water doubled or even tripled.
"The change we saw with this comet is surprising, and highlights the need for repeated measurements of D-to-H in comets at different positions in their orbits to understand all the implications," said Lucas Paganini, a researcher with the Goddard Center for Astrobiology and lead author of the study.
It was previously believed that the levels of water increased or decreased in tandem, while retaining a constant D to H value, but this new discovery has debunked the old belief.
"If the D-to-H value changes with time, it would be misleading to assume that comets contributed only a small fraction of Earth's water compared to asteroids, especially, if these are based on a single measurement of the D-to-H value in cometary water," Paganini stated.
Compared to water production, HDO generation is comparatively lower, which made it previously hard to measure.
Comet Lovejoy generated 1,500 times more water than heavy water. The brightness of the comet helped researchers in evaluating the value of the HDO as it passed by Earth.
Ground-based telescopes are now being equipped with advanced detectors that will help in taking the water measurements in comets further out.
The alteration in water levels in Lovejoy's D to H is likely to the outcome of an increase in the energetic processes, such as the solar radiation, when the comet was closer to the sun. This may have caused changes in the water present on the comet's surface. The different stages of a comet's lifecycle can also be detected with the help of D to H value.
"Comets can be quite active and sometimes quite dynamic, especially when they are in the inner solar system, closer to the sun," said Michael Mumma, director of the Goddard Center for Astrobiology and co-author of the study.
"The infrared technique provides a snapshot of the comet's output by measuring the production of H2O and HDO simultaneously. This is especially important because it eliminates many sources of systematic uncertainty," Mumma concluded.
This research is also published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters.

domain: chemistry