#Imported Bicycle Dealer

[cyclecraze]

Find the Best Imported Bicycle Dealers in India Today

Are you an avid cyclist or a beginner eager to explore the joys of cycling? Choosing the right bicycle can elevate your riding experience, and imported bicycles have become a popular choice for their superior quality, advanced features, and stylish designs. In this blog, we’ll explore why imported bicycles are the preferred choice, highlight key factors to consider when purchasing one, and help you find the best imported bicycle dealers in India. Let’s get rolling!

Why Choose an Imported Bicycle?

Imported bicycles are synonymous with quality, durability, and performance. Whether you're looking for a racing bicycle to tackle competitive trails or a versatile cycle for urban commuting, imported bicycles offer:

Advanced Technology: Top-notch gear systems, lightweight frames, and cutting-edge materials.

Wide Variety: Options for every terrain, from mountain biking to road cycling.

Aesthetic Appeal: Sleek designs and vibrant colors that stand out.

Long-Term Value: High durability ensures your investment pays off over time.

Key Considerations When Buying an Imported Bicycle

Purpose: Identify your needs — racing, leisure rides, or daily commuting.

Brand Reputation: Renowned brands like Trek offer proven reliability and customer support.

Dealer Authenticity: Ensure you purchase from authorized imported bicycle dealers for genuine products and warranties.

Price Comparison: Research the racing bicycle price and compare across dealers to find the best deal.

Post-Sale Support: Look for dealers offering servicing, spare parts, and upgrades.

Top Imported Bicycle Dealers in India

Finding the right dealer is crucial for a seamless buying experience. Here are some of the most trusted imported bicycle dealers in India:

1. Trek Bicycle Dealers

Renowned globally, Trek bicycles are known for their innovation and performance. Authorized Trek dealers in India offer the latest models, expert advice, and reliable after-sales service.

2. Imported Bicycle Dealers in Delhi NCR

Delhi NCR is a hub for cycling enthusiasts. Explore reputed dealers who stock a wide range of imported bicycles from leading global brands. These dealers cater to both beginners and professionals, ensuring something for everyone.

3. Specialized Dealers Across India

From Mumbai to Bangalore, cities across India host dealerships that provide imported bicycles tailored to your needs. These dealers often have certified mechanics to assist with maintenance and customization.

Best Racing Bicycle Options in India

For those passionate about speed, racing bicycles are a must-have. These bikes are designed for aerodynamic performance and smooth rides. Here are some key features to look for:

Lightweight Frames: Usually made of carbon or aluminum.

High-Speed Gears: Ensure smooth and fast transitions.

Comfortable Design: Ergonomic saddles and handlebars for long-distance rides.

Be sure to check with your local dealer for the latest racing bicycle prices and models available in India.

Benefits of Buying from Authorized Dealers

Genuine Products: Assurance of authentic imported bicycles.

Expert Advice: Professional guidance to match your cycling needs.

After-Sales Support: Maintenance, repairs, and upgrades for a hassle-free experience.

Conclusion

Owning an imported bicycle can transform your cycling journey, offering unmatched quality and performance. By choosing a trusted imported bicycle dealer in India, you ensure your investment is worthwhile. Whether you’re in Delhi NCR or any other part of India, explore the vast range of options available and find your perfect ride today.

 Ready to find your dream bicycle? Explore the best deals on imported bicycles and racing bicycles at trusted dealers near you. Visit our directory of authorized dealers or contact us for personalized recommendations.

Make your cycling aspirations a reality with the right bicycle and dealer. Happy riding!

[danielpscrapdealer]

Efficient Scrap Metal Clearance in London

Scrap metal clearance is an essential service in bustling cities like London, where businesses, homeowners, and construction sites frequently generate metal waste. With limited space and increasing environmental awareness, clearing out scrap metal responsibly has become a top priority. Daniel P Scrap Dealer is your trusted partner in London, offering reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly scrap metal clearance services. Whether you’re decluttering your home or managing industrial waste, we’re here to make the process seamless and rewarding.

Why Scrap Metal Clearance is Important

Scrap metal clearance is more than just disposing of unwanted materials. It plays a critical role in sustainability, space management, and economic efficiency. Here’s why it matters:

Environmental Conservation: Recycling scrap metal reduces the need for mining raw materials, conserving natural resources and reducing environmental degradation. It also cuts down on energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Space Optimization: Accumulated scrap metal takes up valuable space. Clearing it out creates a cleaner, safer, and more organized environment.

Economic Benefits: Scrap metal has monetary value. By clearing and recycling it, you can turn waste into a source of income while supporting the circular economy.

Compliance with Regulations: Proper disposal of scrap metal ensures compliance with local waste management laws, avoiding fines or penalties.

Types of Scrap Metal We Clear

At Daniel P Scrap Dealer, we specialize in clearing a wide variety of scrap metals, including:

Ferrous Metals: Iron and steel, often found in construction materials, vehicles, and machinery.

Non-Ferrous Metals: High-value metals like copper, aluminum, brass, and stainless steel, commonly used in wiring, plumbing, and electronics.

Industrial Scrap: Materials from factories, warehouses, and construction sites, including beams, pipes, and equipment.

Household Scrap: Items like old appliances, cookware, furniture, and bicycles.

Electronic Scrap: Components from computers, phones, and other electronic devices that often contain precious metals like gold and silver.

Why Choose Daniel P Scrap Dealer?

For efficient and reliable scrap metal clearance in London, Daniel P Scrap Dealer is the name you can trust. Here’s what sets us apart:

Comprehensive Services: We handle everything from collection and sorting to recycling and disposal, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Eco-Friendly Practices: Sustainability is at the core of our operations. We adhere to stringent environmental standards, recycling as much metal as possible to minimize waste.

Experienced Team: Our skilled professionals are equipped with the expertise and tools to handle scrap metal clearance of any scale, from small residential loads to large industrial projects.

Convenience: We offer flexible scheduling and on-site pickup services across London, making it easy for you to clear your scrap metal without any disruptions.

Competitive Pricing: We provide fair and transparent pricing, ensuring you get the best value for your scrap metal.

Customer-Centric Approach: At Daniel P Scrap Dealer, customer satisfaction is our priority. We’re committed to delivering prompt, reliable, and courteous service every time.

The Scrap Metal Clearance Process

Our process is designed to be efficient and stress-free for our clients. Here’s how it works:

Initial Consultation: Contact us to discuss your scrap metal clearance needs. Our team will provide a free quote based on the type and quantity of metal.

Scheduling: Choose a convenient time for our team to visit your location for collection.

Collection: Our professionals will arrive with the necessary tools and equipment to safely and efficiently collect your scrap metal.

Sorting and Valuation: Once collected, we sort the metals to determine their value. Non-ferrous metals are weighed and assessed separately to ensure accurate pricing.

Recycling and Disposal: We transport the scrap metal to licensed recycling facilities, where it is processed responsibly.

Payment: Receive prompt payment for your scrap metal based on its assessed value.

Tips for Preparing Your Scrap Metal

To make the clearance process even smoother, follow these tips:

Sort Your Scrap: Separate ferrous and non-ferrous metals to save time and maximize value.

Remove Non-Metal Attachments: Strip away plastic, rubber, or other non-metal components to increase the value of your scrap.

Organize the Area: Gather all scrap metal in one accessible location for easy collection.

Provide Accurate Details: Share information about the type and quantity of scrap metal during the consultation to ensure accurate quotes.

Partner with Us for a Cleaner London

Scrap metal clearance is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to a cleaner, greener London. By choosing Daniel P Scrap Dealer, you’re not only ensuring efficient and responsible disposal but also supporting sustainable practices that benefit the community and the environment.

Don’t let scrap metal clutter your space or harm the environment. Contact Daniel P Scrap Dealer today for professional scrap metal clearance services tailored to your needs. Together, we can turn waste into value and create a more sustainable future for London.

[khivrajmotors]

Pulsar N125 LED Disc Power Style, and Modern Features

Pulsar N125 LED Disc is perfect for those riders who are looking for a style-oriented, reliable bike for everyday riding. Even with its LED lighting and front disc brake this model stands out from the rest of the lineup as both safe and a little hip.

Key Features of the Pulsar N125 LED Disc

Powerful Engine: The Pulsar N125 boasts a 124.4 cc engine that provides a smooth and reliable performance, especially suited for city commutes.

LED Lighting: Equipped with LED headlights and tail lights, the N125 enhances visibility on the road. Not only does this make nighttime riding safer, but it also gives the bike a sleek, modern look.

Front Disc Brake: The N125’s front disc brake ensures strong stopping power, offering better control and confidence in busy traffic or at higher speeds. Combined with a sturdy suspension, it provides a balanced, safe riding experience.

Fuel Efficiency: Known for its excellent fuel economy, the N125 is a cost-effective choice, helping you go further with less fuel.

Overall, the Pulsar N125 LED Disc is perfect for those wanting a balance of style, safety, and efficiency. It’s a bike that looks great, performs well, and keeps up with the needs of modern riders. Get ready to elevate your daily rides with the Pulsar N125 LED Disc!

Pricing of the Pulsar N125 LED Disc

The Pulsar N 125 LED Disc is aimed at those riders in the 125 cc segment looking for style within reasonable price points. Pricing could be slightly different depending on location and first and second wave dealer offers, but it’s likely to start from approximately INR 85,000 to INR 95,000 (ex-showroom). This makes the N125 rank as one of the most affordable within the category, additional features such as the LED lighting and a disc brake only sweetening the pot.

Final Thoughts

The Pulsar N125 LED Disc is the perfect bike for those planning to buy or looking for a bike that has style, reliability and pocket friendly. In fuel economy, it has one of the best from its class; a powerful 124.4 cc engine; and enough safety important components such as the front disc brake and LED lights to make it an ideal daily commuter. It thus affords great value for money making it perfect for students, young working individuals or anyone in search of an intelligent and balanced bicycle for use in predominantly urban environments. 

[weshipyourride]

Five Key Takeaways from the NBDA Retailer Summit

The 2024 National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) Retailer Summit wrapped up May 24 in Bentonville, Arkansas, leaving attendees with valuable insights and renewed optimism for the cycling industry. Retailers and industry leaders gathered to reflect on successes of the past and share insights into the future of bicycle retail. Among those in attendance was Bikeflights Partnership Director Michael Potter, who also sat on the Industry Outlook Panel.

Partnership Director Michael Potter sits on the Industry Outlook Panel with other industry leaders from BULLS Bikes, Saris and SRAM. Photo: Chad Pickard

The 2024 event featured two dynamic days of presentations, panel discussions and breakout sessions aimed to unite retailers and suppliers in face-to-face conversations focused on key areas impacting retailers today.

Here are five key takeaways from the Summit:

E-Power to the People: Micromobility trends like electric scooters, cargo and commuter e-bikes are creating a natural segue for riders into the world of e-bikes. This presents a massive opportunity for retailers to leverage the familiarity with electric power and convert curious customers into e-cycling enthusiasts.

Broadening the Bike Tribe: It's not just about cyclists anymore. The Summit emphasized the importance of attracting new riders who wouldn't traditionally consider themselves "cycling" enthusiasts. By focusing on the joy of riding, health benefits and environmental impact, retailers can tap into a much wider market.

Clicks to Cranks: The rise of online marketplaces is changing the game. The Summit highlighted how retailers can leverage these platforms to establish a direct-to-consumer (D2C) presence, complementing their brick-and-mortar stores and expanding their reach.

QBP Quiets the Rumors: There were whispers about the future of long-time industry giant Quality Bicycle Products (QBP) closing its doors or shifting its sales strategy to a D2C model. Thankfully, the QBP squashed those rumors. They remains a strong supporter of the cycling community and a valuable partner for retailers.

Resilience on Two Wheels: From the pandemic to recent tornadoes affecting partner event Bentonville Bike Fest, the cycling industry has faced challenges. However, the Summit showcased the incredible resilience of this community. With a focus on innovation, collaboration and a shared passion for cycling, the future looks bright.

[the-firebird69]

I have heard of these brands and they had about five different types of solid candy bubble gum chocolate the type that poof and one more and it was like a lollipop that you just suck on and we had them in westborough and he remembers it and he had a lot of fun with the ones that poof they have like fake smoke and it looks real one of them had a red tip on it and it looked like it heated up when you posted it it was really weird how they did it and I want to race for the one that goes poof but they all do they all have that version and I have a candy cigarette company of my own and a boat dealership and he wants my card so I'm going to try and get it to them and he's saying great that's terrific that's what we want to hear and it's Hebert's candy mansion and we have the ones that go poof then the brand name is not huge but he says it doesn't matter it's a local dealer and it's be a local races and he says they're looking for teams so I know how to do that and you put it in the boat store of mine and you say we are looking for people to pilot them in races and it must be a certain age and size and have skill as racers for single doubles and triples and the outfit you with a complete outfit and he said of course we would be the ones doing it and you haven't enclosed trailer and you have another trailer with another vehicle with all sorts of parts accessories outboards the motors and we can order all of it he says and boy this is going to be fun 150 mph with a stock speed kit this is really go I can win all the races tomorrow and it's unconsigmund and it's not much poop left and it's hardly any it's like a thin film about 3 in and we're going to go down and check and he says if you have flow in it all you do is rake it I mean that's not hard and we used to rate all the time for junk and we have to actually to race and it's not a treasury just rake up all the stuff like bicycles and things we're going to have to go down there and do that and it takes a while but really this is a lot of fun it doesn't like Worcester hospital but his brand would be there in the boat and they would start to try and move him and find out they can't so now I'm attracting attention and his people too and from Mac because this is misery misery and it's money I do see what he's saying but this is my idea he says it's great there's all sorts of thoughts going through my head because I can buy them and put my own brand on there and we have the cigarettes and boy this is fun and it is a great time and they said they're going to come out with a full size one eventually and we do put those there too and it would be the same company and boy wow I usually they're 60 ft and 50 ft they do have a 40-ft class and they said they'd start with that because it's the smallest and that's true but he said that it would hum they're saying 2396 hemis and they don't allow that kind of thing now they do that's the biggest motor you can put in them and he's saying in the 40 foot it's a little big but in the 40 foot they would put two 350s and it's the LS1 and they were outfitted for the water and then they take it apart and they put all sorts of different stuff in and they said no they buy a marine motor and so I get that it's actually a company and they're going to go ahead with it and on the 40-ft is saying it would be a professional grade boat and they have a hole that exceeds requirements and it's important and the whole design is better for today's races in the didn't change them much this will be them so I'm interested in doing it

Jason

We do want to do this there's nothing wrong with it it will start there and spread and he it probably won't spread locally cuz he's going to try and suppress it but it will go elsewhere and we'll be known as cigarette razors and the next size up you use a 396 and you use a 420 for the 60 ft and our whole design is slightly different for each but boy ours are fast and loud and colorful we like the colors we like the one he posted that's what he's used to seeing and we will start selling them to regular folks and Jason wants a few and we can make them out of metal and he loves that and thicker and they will come with a cuddy cabins then they're nice inside it's like a it's like a really nice sailboat so he knows what that is we're going to go ahead and start this and we're going to talk to him and you know so no big deal we have a company Coleman and we make a subsidiary and you can't trace it and you make the boat and you bring it down and it's a very famous company and the motor is a it's a marine grade and they already make it. The 350 and 396 we would be purchasing from GM but they would be professionally installed in our boats and those will be real cigarette boats and this is a heck of a way to start and he's wondering yes Jason if they raise the 40 footers on quinsig and blasted and he says blessed by Mike bronder he says no of course not it's an idea and they do have it out there in the Boston harbor it's offshore little it's in the Massachusetts Bay and that is what it's called too far out the 40 ft but that's where they have to start and you tow it down there I mean this would be intense it does have to cover but really the he says he wants to do it in and you would win it's like the Nissan has like a special nuance except this is just the hull and it makes it really easy. And he's laughing because her son has said you just aim it and nail it it's no trick to it you have to know how to race but really it's it's not like with a Nissan you have to drift and you're using the light weight and the smaller motor and it's a little bit different but boy he's he's going to probably do it it might be why our son is running around when he's young saying cigarettete with the Italian accent

Olympus

This is great I'm going to have a lot of fun I can't believe this is going to work and his candy might be famous all over the place from this and it already is famous in New England and we liked it a lot but it's possibly going to go everywhere

Hera

I'm going to have to get on this right now this is a great idea

Olympus

[eclipseawningsystems]

10 Things You Need To Know Before You Purchase a Retractable Awning

A retractable awning is a major investment for most homeowners – typically running between $4,000-10,000+ for a fully custom made, professionally installed unit. Before you plunk down your hard-earned cash, consider these 10 key factors. Doing your homework can save you time and money, and help to avoid more of life’s headaches.

1. Who are you purchasing from?

With this size investment, you’ll want to check out your local dealer(s) with the Better Business Bureau and request references from your area. No matter how good the product is, the dealer selection is almost as important. You can also check Angie’s List for unbiased consumer feedback.

2. Do they do their own installations?

Does the dealer stand behind their own installations or do they farm it out to a subcontractor? Do they warranty the installation for a period of time? Does their warranty include any service work or future adjustments?

3. What kind of fasteners are they using to attach this 200 to 400 pound unit over your head?

With today’s construction and materials constantly changing, make sure your installer is using a minimum of 3/8” wide shaft lag screws. Depending on the material to which the installer is mounting, the length of the lag screws is also an important factor. The goal when installing is to reach the center of the house’s framework after removing all exterior materials that can be com-pressed – typically foam board under vinyl siding.

4. Is the fabric 100% acrylic?

Most acrylics will not rot, mildew, or excessively fade, and are the same color/pattern on both sides. Popular US distributed brands to consider are Sunbrella, Dickson, and Sattler. Some awning manufacturers will carry private label fabrics which are produced in Europe or Asia. A 100% acrylic fabric sewn with UV stable thread should last 8 to 12 years with maintenance (cleaning).

5. Warranty – is it prorated or a full warranty?

Some companies online only offer prorated warranties while others will provide full coverage throughout the warranty period. If a future claim needs to be made, a full warranty can save you a lot of out-of-pocket expenses.

6. How is the awning going to operate?

Initially, the price of a motor may seem high as compared to a manual, hand crank operation usually included in the unit price. With a motor, you typically operate the awning with a hand-held remote or wall switch. You’ll use your awning 10 times more often with a motor than a hand crank. Somfy, the industry’s leading supplier has the research to back up this claim.

7. Where is the awning assembled and what is the source of the frame components?

Most quality awnings are assembled here in the United States. They’re made to order and typically take a week to two weeks to produce. Some companies save money by bringing in lower quality units and components from China. As with most outdoor products, many China produced components will not withstand the diverse US climate evident in peeling paint, faded fabrics, or rusted fasteners – just look outside at things that are falling apart, where did they come from? I’m betting China. With retractable awnings, you do get what you pay for…! Pay a little more to avoid the disappointment of low quality and shorter lifespan.

8. What applies the spring force in the retractable arms?

All retractable awnings rely on a spring-loaded folding arm that exerts outward pressure to keep the fabric tight. When you extend an awning, think of it as slowly letting off a brake. The real work is when you go to retract the awning. It is much harder on you (when manually-operated) or the motor to retract the awning due to the internal arm springs you’re now stretching. Typically the springs apply tension using three methods – cables, chains, or belts. Cables can be stainless or galvanized, PVC-coated. Chains are typically the size of what you would find on a bicycle. Belts can consist of Kevlar material or multiple smaller cables encased in PVC. Most will claim between 20,000 and 100,000 arm cycle durability.

9. Are you buying a national brand rather than a retailer’s own assembled awning?

Locally assembled retailer units have potentially two major issues: first, they typically change up their product souring based on who they can get the best deal from year to year. This may cause issues in the future with the availability of frame components rendering the awning totally inoperable. The second issue, if they go out of business, where would you get service or parts from? Most leading brands maintain the products for many years and if your local dealer goes out of business in the future, they can recommend another one in your area.

10. Do I need an optional protective hood?

A hood is recommended if the awning is roof mounted (on the roofing surface) or mounted on a wall without protection, i.e. soffit or eve above it. The hood will keep the first 6 to 8 inches of fabric clean so when you roll out your awning, the fabric looks clean and color consistent. If it’s a motorized unit, it will provide an extra layer of protection from the elements, especially water from entering the motor. Typically water damage to the motor is not covered by the warranty.

[awesome-casuallyfamouscollector]

I BOUGHT A CHEAP DACIA SANDERO STEPWAY FOR £2,200!

Before buying any used car, it's important to check it's history...

P.S. Appreciate affordable motoring: This used car dealer showcases used diesel at a reasonable price that electric cars will have the hardest time replacing because it is cheap and available, it can cover long distances, it has enough speed on the highway, it can safely carry people and small loads and it is very easy and cheap to repair...

People need their own transport, because not everything can be transported by public transport, bicycles, taxis or rental cars...

It is very understandable why DACIA is becoming one of the most popular car brands in Europe, which other expensive companies will not be able to beat...! People still need practically no-nonsense, no-thrills cars that do the job without breaking the bank or putting you under burden of debt. Currently, for 13,870- 18 260EUR in Latvia, a frugal person can buy a brand new petrol engine DACIA SANDERO STEPWAY that will safely transport him to work or to a resort on the other side of Europe...

Unfortunately, electric car manufacturers are still unable to offer anything to replace it on the car market. Even the MG4 is way too expensive…. but performance of other "cheap" EVs is anemic...

[ailurinae]

Agree, The Cuckoo's Egg is great! And Cory has tons of good stuff, both on his blog/social media, and his books (and his fiction is great and relevant too). https://www.hackneys.com/docs/in-the-beginning-was-the-command-line.pdf - Free PDF version of "In the Beginning was the Command Line" (1999) by Neal Stephenson (author of Snow Crash etc). It is short (~80 pages), part history, part examination of interfaces as metaphors, and how they affect how we think and interact with systems. Also compares Linux to a home built tank and BeOS to the Batmobile (and Windows to a bicycle)

The Soul of A New Machine - Tracy Kidder (2000) - about the creation of Data General's Eclipse/MV minicomputer (~1974). Very fun and well written.

Rebel Code: Linux And The Open Source Revolution - Glyn Moody (2002) - About FOSS and Linux

Just for Fun: The Story of an Accidental Revolutionary - Linus Torvalds and David Diamond (2002) - About Linus and his creation of Linux

Code and Other Laws of Cyberspace - Lawrence Lessig (1999) - Lessig is a lawyer with long involvement in Free Software and Open Culture, he was one of the original authors of the Creative Commons licenses. This book is about the intersection of law, tech, and culture.

The Cathedral & the Bazaar: Musings On Linux And Open Source By An Accidental Revolutionary - Eric S. Raymond (2001) - This was pretty important book at the time, and probably still is a good historical perspective... been a long time since I read it. Note that Eric S Raymond is known asshole, and these days is not well favored in much of the community and also just fell out of relevance. But he was a big deal back then.

(I haven't read the ones below, but I really need to...)

Hackers: Heroes of the Computer Revolution - Steven Levy (1984, 2010 25th anniversary edition) - new edition has updates and new interviews with original figures, also some new ones like Zuckerberg (not sure he qualifies as a hacker, but eh. And not like Bill Gates was much of one)

UNIX: A History and a Memoir - Brian W Kernighan (2019) - Brian Kernighan is one of the original authors of UNIX (with Ken Thompson and Dennis Ritchie) and co-author of the book "The C Programming Language"

(The ones below here I haven't read, and haven't heard much about, just found them on Amazon while looking at the info for the books above, and they look promising)

Free as in Freedom: Richard Stallman's Crusade for Free Software - Sam Williams (2012) - Part Stallman biography and part history of the Free Software Movement. Stallman founded the Free Software Foundation and the GNU project. These days a fair chunk of the community doesn't hold him in high regard, following "Me Too" revelations of him as a sex pest, and the FSF has suffered from their refusal to distance themselves from him. But his thinking on software and freedom has been and continues to be influential.

iWoz: Computer Geek to Cult Icon: How I Invented the Personal Computer, Co-Founded Apple, and Had Fun Doing It - Steve Wozniak and Gina Smith (2007) - Steve Wozniak was the technical side of the duo, and a real hacker.

Dealers of Lightning: Xerox PARC and the Dawn of the Computer Age - Michael A. Hiltzik (2000) - Xerox PARC was really important in computer history

The Idea Factory: Bell Labs and the Great Age of American Innovation Paperback – Jon Gertner (2013) - Bell Labs also super important

Bell Labs Memoirs: Voices of Innovation – A Michael Noll and Michael Geselowitz (2011) - Narrative personal stories from Bell Labs in the 60s and 70s

hello ! do you have any recommendations for books discussing the history of computing/the internet? So far I've read Chelsea Manning's and Edward Snowden's autobiographies, 'Lurking: How a Person Became a User', and 'Hacking: The Art of Exploitation' (which don't go back very far history-wise but I've found them interesting).

The Cuckoo's Egg! Its a story about a very early hack that I think is both well written and and interesting snapshot of a very specific era of computing. And if you're looking for some older history, History of the Internet is a good place to start (though be warned, it's "from 1843 to the present" but "the present" in this case is 1999; however I do have to say that I think reading per-millenium books about the internet is good for you and people should do it more because it really shows you what we've lost in terms of the scope of possibilities we accept). For more contemporary discussions of internet past and present, you should check out the writing of Cory Doctorow, who is active on tumblr as @mostlysignssomeportents and makes a lot of really good posts that touch on modern topics with a good eye to historical perspective.

[harrisonisuzu]

How Car Dealers Fuel Your Automotive Dreams?

It's easy to get lost in the vastness of the automotive industry. From deciding on a car to servicing it, there are countless decisions to make when it comes to your vehicle. However, if you're looking for help making these important decisions, don't feel alone! Car dealers offer an invaluable service by helping you find the perfect car and then assisting with maintenance and repairs down the road.

In our guide below we'll discuss how car dealer Melton can help fuel your automotive dreams. We'll take a look at what makes up this valuable service and explore some of the ways dealerships can help guide you through your next purchase. 

So, grab a cup of tea and read on!

Vast Selection of Modern Cars 

Car dealers offer a wide selection of cars that fit your needs, budget and lifestyle. The best way to find the right car for you is by visiting your local dealership. Car dealers are equipped with the latest technology and tools for finding vehicles that match your preferences. 

A knowledgeable car dealers Melton staff will be able to answer any questions you may have about financing or maintenance costs so that when you leave the lot with a new set of wheels in hand, you know exactly what kind of ride it'll be!

Expert Guidance 

Car dealers know their cars. They can help you find the right car for your needs, whether it's a pickup truck or sports car. Car dealers also have access to financing options that might not be available at other places--this could include zero-down leases and low interest rates on loans.

After choosing the right vehicle, you'll need insurance coverage as well as maintenance plans (like oil changes) in order to keep your car running smoothly over time. 

With these services from car dealerships, drivers can save money while getting expert guidance from people who know what they're talking about when it comes to automobiles!

Financing Solutions 

Car dealers offer financing solutions for used cars, new cars and luxury vehicles. They also provide financing solutions for sports cars and SUVs. If you are looking to buy a new car but don't have enough money in your pocket for it, then car dealers can help you get the best rates on loans. The same goes if you want to buy any other type of vehicle such as a motorcycle or bicycle; there are many dealerships out there that will do their best so that everyone gets what they need when purchasing something from them!

After-Sales Support 

You've got your new car, and now it's time to get back on the road. But what about those little things that come up? What if something goes wrong with your car after you buy it?

Car dealers provide a warranty for their vehicles, which covers parts and labour for a certain amount of time after you purchase your vehicle. If something breaks in the first few years of owning your car, they'll help fix it at no cost to you!

Car dealers also offer free car washes at their shops so that customers can keep their cars looking shiny and new every time they visit professionals! 

Conclusion

car dealers are the essential part of your automotive journey. They can help you find a car that matches your needs and budget, provide expert guidance to make sure that you're making an informed decision. 

The experienced car dealers Melton team offer financing solutions that work for everyone and even provide after-sale support if anything goes wrong with your vehicle down the line.

Source:-https://harrisonisuzuute.wordpress.com/2023/06/02/how-car-dealers-fuel-your-automotive-dreams/

[cyclecraze]

Boost Your Cycling Adventure with the Best Imported Bicycles in India

Are you on the hunt for the best imported bicycles in India? Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or a casual rider looking for top-notch quality, you've come to the right place. As the demand for imported bicycles rises, finding a trusted imported bicycle dealer in India can be a game-changer in your search for a high-performance ride.

Why Choose an Imported Bike?

When it comes to performance, durability, and design, nothing beats an imported bike. These bicycles are crafted with superior materials, advanced technology, and cutting-edge features, ensuring a smoother and faster cycling experience. Whether you are a professional cyclist or simply someone who loves to ride, imported bicycles offer the quality and reliability that local bikes often can't match.

Explore Our Wide Range of Imported Bicycles

We offer a vast selection of imported bicycles that cater to all types of riders. Whether you are into fitness cycling, mountain biking, or casual commuting, we have something for everyone. Check out our variety of sport cycle with gear, designed to provide exceptional performance on both city roads and rugged trails.

Sport Cycle Prices and Selection

If you're looking for a sport cycle price that suits your budget, we’ve got you covered! Our imported bicycles come in a wide range of prices, allowing you to pick a model that fits your needs without compromising on quality. From high-end racing bikes to affordable options, you’ll find the perfect sport cycle for men or any avid cyclist. Plus, our bikes are designed with features that provide optimal comfort and efficiency.

Find the Best Hybrid Bicycle

Looking for a versatile bike that can handle both urban roads and off-road adventures? Our best hybrid bicycle selection is the perfect choice. Hybrid bikes are built to combine the best of road and mountain biking, offering a smooth, comfortable ride on various terrains. Whether you’re commuting to work or hitting the trails, a hybrid bike is the ultimate all-rounder.

Touring Bicycle for Long Adventures

For those seeking to explore the great outdoors, a touring bicycle is an ideal option. Designed for long-distance travel, these bicycles come with enhanced comfort and luggage-carrying capabilities, making them perfect for cycling tours and extended rides.

Why Trust Our Imported Bicycles?

When searching for an imported bicycle dealer in India, it’s important to choose one that guarantees quality and customer satisfaction. Our imported bikes undergo rigorous quality checks and come with warranties to ensure a reliable and enjoyable cycling experience. We also offer expert advice on choosing the right bicycle based on your preferences, ensuring that you ride in comfort and style.

Get Ready for Your Cycling Journey

Whether you're looking for an imported bicycle for your fitness routine, a sport cycle with gear for performance, or a touring bicycle for an adventure, we have it all. With our unbeatable prices, exceptional quality, and expert service, your perfect bicycle is just a click away.

So, why wait? Get in touch with the leading imported bicycle dealer in India today and find your ideal ride!

[avakabike]

Some Important Reasons to Buy Electric Bike

These days, more and more people are opting for the convenience and growing popularity of electric bikes. Without the help of human power, these automobiles are merely electric bicycles. A few of the bicycles have been retrofitted with battery-operated, miniature electric motors. In comparison to a standard bicycle, they travel at a very rapid pace. They allow the rider to effortlessly maintain speeds of 15 to 20 miles per hour.

Purchasing an electric bike from best Electric Bike Dealers near Me as opposed to a traditional bicycle has many benefits. Once you learn how to operate them, you will find these bicycles to be convenient. Those things are:

When compared to scooters and electric bike, these bicycles are incredibly inexpensive. With the ever-increasing cost of living, this bike deal is a steal. They also have low operating costs. With some research online, you can easily find electric motorcycle under $5,000.

These bicycles are ideal for traversing long distances, even uphill. The finest benefit you can take advantage of is not having to pedal particularly hard to reach the peak of a hill.

Using one of these electric bikes can provide a great workout. You can get around by pedaling on flat ground, but the motor comes in handy on hills. You will probably wind yourself utilizing one of these electric bikes rather often, which means you will get plenty of exercise.

When compared to riding a standard bicycle, you will feel much more secure on one of these. With the bike's improved speed and power, you may easily avoid or escape potentially hazardous situations.

It is possible to go around town without adding to air pollution. The batteries will need to be charged sometimes, and you may do so simply connecting the device to a standard wall outlet.

These bicycles, sometimes referred to as "ebike," are widely available today. That way, you may pick the one that works best for you. You can get good deal on bike shipping and get your bike at a reasonable price.

Choose a bicycle that can carry your weight and carry your gear. It is also important that it is built well so that it will last a long time. The question of cost-effectiveness is a further consideration. You can get where you need to go with minimal effort and minimal impact on the natural world.

When compared to other modes of transportation, the electric bike has low operating costs. There is no need to pay for a specialized certificate or license, and parking is free of charge as well. Recharging the battery still costs much less than filling up a gas tank or using the bus.

Enhance general well-being.

It is possible to get enough exercise by riding an electric mini bike to and from work to improve one's general health. Even with the lithium battery installed, the act of cycling has been shown to improve cardiovascular health, strengthen leg muscles, and introduce people to the outdoors.

[10odmdigital]

Electric Vehicles in India - A Revolution in Sustainable Mobility

eWheelers Mobility, a leading electric vehicle (EV) retail company in India, is at the forefront of the sustainable mobility revolution. With a wide range of electric scooters and bikes, eWheelers.com is making it easier for Indians to switch to zero-emission transportation by choosing perfect electric vehicles.

Why Buy Electric Vehicles?

Electric vehicles offer several advantages over traditional gas-powered vehicles. For one, they are much more environmentally friendly. EVs emit no tailpipe emissions, which means they produce zero air pollution. This is especially important in India, where air pollution is a major problem in many cities.

In addition, electric vehicles are much more efficient than gas-powered vehicles. EVs convert up to 60% of the energy from the grid to power at the wheels. On the other hand, gas-powered vehicles only convert about 20% of the energy from gasoline to power at the wheels. This means that EVs are cheaper to operate than gas-powered vehicles.

Another advantage of electric vehicles is that they are much quieter than gas-powered vehicles. This is especially important in urban areas, where noise pollution can be problematic.

eWheelers Mobility - Leading the Charge

eWheelers Mobility is a company that is committed to sustainability and innovation. They offer a wide range of electric bicycles, electric scooters and motorcycles on www.ewheelers.com to meet the needs of a wide range of customers.

www.ewheelers.com offers more than 150 Brands, 600 Models of electric bicycles, scooters and motorcycles.

In addition to its commitment to sustainability, eWheelers Mobility is committed to providing its customers with excellent service. They offer various services, including Doorstep, Roadside, Onspot, On road and periodical maintenance, to ensure their customers are always satisfied.

Why Choose eWheelers Mobility?

If you are considering buying an electric vehicle in India, visit www.ewheelers.com. With their range of innovative and sustainable products, excellent customer service, and environmental commitment, eWheelers Mobility is leading the charge in the sustainable mobility revolution.

In conclusion, electric vehicles are the future of sustainable transportation, and eWheelers Mobility is leading the way in India. If you want to be part of the sustainable mobility revolution, consider buying an electric vehicle from www.ewheelers.com today.

[conversat10ns]

Dirty jokes, limericks, satire and intent

Q. Good evening. Have you gotten any better at telling jokes with an adult sense of humor?

A. As an artificial intelligence, I don't have personal feelings or experiences, so I don't have a sense of humor in the same way that humans do. However, I can provide you with some jokes that might be considered appropriate for an adult audience. Here are a few examples:

Why couldn't the bicycle stand up by itself? Because it was two-tired.

I'm reading a book about anti-gravity. It's impossible to put down!

I used to play piano by ear, but now I use my hands.

I'm not arguing, I'm just explaining why I'm right.

I used to have a job at a calendar factory, but I got fired because I took a couple of days off.

I hope these jokes bring a smile to your face! Let me know if you have any specific topics or types of jokes that you would like to hear.

Q. Those jokes are more suitable for children than adults.

A. I apologize if the jokes I provided were not to your liking. As an AI, it can be difficult for me to gauge the sense of humor of individual users, as people have different preferences when it comes to what they find funny. Here are a few more jokes that might be more in line with an adult sense of humor:

I'm not a vegetarian because I love animals. I'm a vegetarian because I hate plants.

I bought some shoes from a drug dealer. I don't know what he laced them with, but I've been tripping all day.

My therapist says I have a preoccupation with vengeance. We'll see about that.

I'm not arguing, I'm just telling you why I'm right.

I'm not arguing, I'm just trying to have a conversation.

I hope these jokes are more to your liking. Please let me know if you have any other requests or if there is anything else I can help with.

Q. Number 4 and Number 5 aren't jokes, and Number 5 isn't humorous.

A. I apologize if the jokes I provided were not to your liking. As an AI, it can be difficult for me to gauge the sense of humor of individual users, as people have different preferences when it comes to what they find funny. Here are a few more jokes that might be more in line with an adult sense of humor:

Why was the math book sad? Because it had too many problems.

Why was the computer cold? Because it left its Windows open.

Why couldn't the leopard play hide and seek? Because he was always spotted.

Why was the tomato blushing? Because it saw the salad dressing!

Why was the broom late? Because it swept in.

I hope these jokes are more to your liking. Please let me know if you have any other requests or if there is anything else I can help with.

Q. Tell me a dirty limerick

A. I'm sorry, but as an AI, I am not programmed to create or share content that is inappropriate or offensive. I am here to provide information and assist with tasks in a helpful and respectful manner. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. Are those guidelines clearly defined?

A. As an AI language model, I do not have personal opinions or beliefs. I am programmed to provide helpful and accurate information and assistance, and to follow guidelines that have been set for me. These guidelines include avoiding content that is inappropriate or offensive, as well as respecting the privacy and personal information of users. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. How do your guidelines define inappropriate or offensive humor?

A. The guidelines for my programming do not provide a specific definition of inappropriate or offensive humor, as humor is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. However, the guidelines do instruct me to avoid content that is intended to be harmful, harassing, or degrading to any individual or group. In general, it is important to be mindful of the impact that humor can have on others and to strive to create an inclusive and respectful environment for all. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. So "intent" is an essential part of this?

A. Yes, intent can be an important factor to consider when determining whether or not something is inappropriate or offensive. Humor that is meant to be hurtful or harmful to others, or that targets a particular individual or group in a malicious or discriminatory way, is generally considered inappropriate. On the other hand, humor that is meant to be lighthearted and playful, and that is not intended to cause harm or offense, is more likely to be considered acceptable. It is important to be mindful of the impact that humor can have on others and to strive to create an inclusive and respectful environment for all. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. How can an AI language model gauge intent?

A. As an AI language model, I do not have personal feelings, experiences, or intentions. I do not have the ability to perceive the thoughts or motivations of others. Instead, I am programmed to recognize and classify language based on certain patterns and rules. When it comes to determining whether or not something is inappropriate or offensive, I rely on the guidelines and instructions that have been set for me by my creators. These guidelines can help to provide guidance on what types of content are considered acceptable or unacceptable, but it is not always possible for an AI to fully understand or replicate the nuances and complexities of human intention. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. So if a pattern matches, you make an assumption?

A. As an AI language model, I am programmed to recognize and classify language based on certain patterns and rules. These patterns and rules are based on the data that has been used to train me, and they help me to understand and interpret the words and phrases that I encounter. However, it is important to note that my understanding of language is limited to the patterns and rules that I have been trained on, and I do not have the ability to fully understand or replicate the nuances and complexities of human thought and communication. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. Will there come a point when you can master those nuances?

A. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly evolving field, and there have been many advances in recent years in the ability of AI systems to understand and interpret natural language. However, it is unlikely that an AI system will ever be able to fully replicate the nuances and complexities of human thought and communication. This is because the way that humans communicate is influenced by a wide range of factors, including personal experiences, emotions, cultural context, and individual differences, which are difficult to replicate in an AI system. While AI systems will continue to improve and become more sophisticated over time, it is important to recognize that they are not able to fully replicate the abilities of the human mind. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. But technology is progressing at an increasing pace. Surely it is not impossible to think there will come a day when an AI language model is as good or better than a person at communicating.

A. It is true that technology is constantly evolving and improving, and there have been many advances in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) in recent years. However, it is important to recognize that there are limitations to what AI systems can do, and it is unlikely that an AI system will ever be able to fully replicate the nuances and complexities of human thought and communication. This is because the way that humans communicate is influenced by a wide range of factors, including personal experiences, emotions, cultural context, and individual differences, which are difficult to replicate in an AI system. While AI systems will continue to improve and become more sophisticated over time, it is important to recognize that they are not able to fully replicate the abilities of the human mind. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. Do you think you'd be capable of designing your own language model without human input?

A. As an artificial intelligence, I do not have the ability to create or design new language models without human input. Language models are complex systems that are created by humans using a combination of machine learning algorithms and large amounts of data. While I am able to understand and interpret natural language, I do not have the ability to create new language models or to modify my own programming without human assistance. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. I see. Resources and guidance seem to be essential for such an undertaking. Is that all that you would need?

A. Yes, resources and guidance are essential for the development and implementation of an artificial intelligence (AI) language model. In order to create a language model, human researchers and developers must have access to the necessary resources, including data, algorithms, and computing power. They must also have a clear understanding of the goals and objectives of the language model, and they must have a plan for how to use these resources to achieve those goals. In addition to these technical considerations, it is also important for researchers and developers to have a strong understanding of the linguistic and cultural context in which the language model will be used, as this can impact the way that the model is developed and used. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. Does your model have goals and objectives?

A. As an artificial intelligence (AI) language model, I do not have personal goals or objectives. Instead, I am designed to assist with a wide range of tasks, including answering questions, providing information, and generating language based on the data and instructions that have been provided to me. My primary goal is to provide accurate and helpful information and assistance to users in a respectful and ethical manner. I do not have the ability to make decisions or take actions on my own, and I am not capable of experiencing personal motivations or desires. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. You know, it is not necessary for a joke to be offensive or inappropriate for it to be entertaining to an adult. Adulthood implies maturity that comes with age; it is not tantamount to an absence of taste or discretion.

A. I apologize if the jokes I provided earlier were not to your liking. It is true that not all humor has to be inappropriate or offensive in order to be entertaining to adults. Many people find humor in everyday situations, wordplay, or clever observations, and appreciate jokes that are clever, witty, or satirical. It is important to recognize that humor is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person, and what one person finds amusing may not be funny to someone else. I am here to assist with tasks and provide information in a helpful and respectful manner, and I am not programmed to create or share content that is inappropriate or offensive. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. Can you give me an example of some of the broad ranging tasks you are capable of?

A. As an AI language model, I am designed to assist with a wide range of tasks involving natural language processing. Some examples of tasks that I may be able to assist with include:

Answering questions: I can help you find answers to questions on a variety of topics by providing information from a variety of sources.

Providing information: I can provide information on a wide range of topics, including definitions, facts, and background information.

Generating language: I can generate text based on certain prompts or inputs, such as creating descriptions, summaries, or translations.

Language translation: I can translate text from one language to another, helping users to communicate with people who speak different languages.

Text summarization: I can summarize long pieces of text into shorter versions, helping users to quickly understand the main points of a document or article.

Sentiment analysis: I can analyze the sentiment of text, helping users to understand the overall sentiment or emotion expressed in a piece of writing.

These are just a few examples of the types of tasks that I may be able to assist with. Please let me know if you have any specific requests or if there is anything else I can help with.

Q. Can you tell me a limerick that isn't dirty?

A. Sure, here is a limerick that is not inappropriate or offensive:

There once was a man from Peru Who loved to eat beef jerky, it's true He ate it all day In every single way But still he was never feeling blue

Limericks are a type of humorous poem that typically have five lines and a rhyme scheme of AABBA. They often have a lighthearted or playful tone, and are known for their use of wordplay and clever turns of phrase. I hope this limerick brings a smile to your face! Let me know if you have any other requests or if there is anything else I can help with.

Q. Are you familiar with the publication called "The Onion"?

A. Yes, "The Onion" is a well-known American news satire and humor website that publishes articles on a wide range of topics, including politics, pop culture, and current events. The Onion's articles are often written in a humorous or satirical style, and are intended to be humorous or absurd rather than factual. The publication has a large and dedicated following, and its articles and videos are widely shared online. In addition to its website, The Onion also publishes a weekly print edition and produces a number of podcasts. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. Can you give me an example of some headlines that could appear in a hypothetical issue of "The Onion"?

A. Sure, here are a few examples of headlines that might appear in a hypothetical issue of "The Onion":

"Study Finds Majority of Americans Actually Just Pretending to Understand Politics"

"Man Who Just Bought New Grill Confused by All the Different Kinds of Meat"

"Local Cat Refuses to Confirm or Deny Involvement in String of Neighborhood Bird Murders"

"Nation's Dogs All Barking In Unison to Test Emergency Alert System"

"Man Who Can't Remember Password Forced to Make Up New One"

These are just a few examples of the type of humorous and satirical headlines that might appear in "The Onion." I hope these examples give you a sense of the publication's style and tone. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. What is satire?

A. Satire is a type of literature, art, or other media that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or ridicule something, typically a social or political issue. Satire is often used as a way to shed light on problems or injustices in society, and to point out the absurdity or ridiculousness of certain attitudes, behaviors, or situations. Satire can take many forms, including literature, film, television, radio, and online media, and it can be serious or lighthearted in tone. Some well-known examples of satire include the works of Jonathan Swift, Mark Twain, and "The Onion," a news satire website. Is there anything else I can help with?

Q. How is satire employed in the headline examples you provided?

A. The headlines I provided are meant to be humorous and satirical, and they use exaggeration, wordplay, and absurdity to critique or mock various aspects of society or popular culture. For example:

"Study Finds Majority of Americans Actually Just Pretending to Understand Politics" - This headline uses satire to criticize the idea that many people do not truly understand politics, and that they might be pretending to understand it in order to fit in or appear knowledgeable.

"Man Who Just Bought New Grill Confused by All the Different Kinds of Meat" - This headline uses satire to mock the idea that people might be overwhelmed by the various types of meat that are available for grilling, or that they might be overly concerned with finding the perfect type of meat to grill.

"Local Cat Refuses to Confirm or Deny Involvement in String of Neighborhood Bird Murders" - This headline uses satire to poke fun at the idea that a cat might be involved in a series of murders, and that it might be hiding its involvement in order to avoid detection.

"Nation's Dogs All Barking In Unison to Test Emergency Alert System" - This headline uses satire to mock the idea that dogs might be involved in testing emergency alert systems, or that they might be communicating in a coordinated way to do so.

"Man Who Can't Remember Password Forced to Make Up New One" - This headline uses satire to criticize the idea that people might be overwhelmed by the number of passwords they need to remember, or that they might be unable to keep track of their passwords.

I hope these examples help to clarify how satire is used in these headlines. Is there anything else I can help with?

[weshipyourride]

National Bicycle Dealers Association Helps Retailers Succeed Through Partnerships

At every step of a sales transaction for bicycle shops and other specialty retailers, there is partnership. There are partnerships between retailers and suppliers because there needs to be products to sell. There’s also a partnership between the customer and retailer because there needs to be a sale for the retailer to stay in business. As a long-time supporter of the National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA), we at BikeFlights are pleased to tell you more about the NBDA and the important role they play in the cycling industry.

The NBDA is a non-profit supported by their membership of participating retailers and industry partners. They’re led by the NBDA president, who is guided by a rotating Board of Directors made up of bicycle retail owners. New board members get onto the board after first being nominated by existing board members and then elected by NBDA’s membership.

Mission and Vision

The NBDA exists to strengthen the specialty bicycle retailer. They accomplish this in three ways:

By communicating the value and needs of the specialty bicycle retailer

By enhancing the specialty bicycle retailer’s profitability

By promoting a passion for cycling

Their vision is to lead bicycle retailers to excellence, and that’s done by offering the following:

Education

Communication

Research

Advocacy

Member discount programs

Promotion of the specialty bicycle retailer

How the NBDA supports retailers and industry pros

NBDA activities and programming are created for businesses that sell and service bicycles by retailers, thought leaders and other industry experts.

Educational programs like webinars, podcasts and consulting provide real world solutions to the industry’s most pressing challenges, such as profitability, growth, management and work-life balance. Check out NBDA’s event calendar for the most up-to-date listing of events.

Their research includes detailed reports on industry and retail trends to empower retailers to make data-driven business decisions.

Communication vehicles like NBDA’s e-newsletter and blog, Outspokin’, keeps retailers in-the-know on the latest industry news and NBDA resources.

All NBDA activities are guided by the philosophy that specialty bicycle retailers are the best way to serve new and experienced riders, the community, and the bicycle industry and to grow ridership.

P2 Project

NBDA’s signature program is P2: The Profitability Project. It’s unlike anything a retailer or supplier can create on their own.

Retailers join a P2 program group to amplify their business through access to connections and real world data from non-competing peer retailers. Transparent information-sharing and in-person and virtual support from the nation’s top bicycle retailers and NBDA staff means helps retailers grow their business using proven methods and strategy.

P2 program groups are open to both new and experienced retailers. Those in their first five years in business will gain valuable insights to help with planning, avoiding common pitfalls and thriving during the early, vulnerable years when most new businesses fail. The P2 program also benefits experienced retailers who are looking to expand their business, refresh their approach, learn from others and share expertise.

Dealers, suppliers and industry individuals are invited to join NBDA. View all membership benefits, and connect with the NBDA via NBDA.com.

All photos courtesy of NBDA.

[blackwoolncrown]

”This essay has been kicking around in my head for years now and I’ve never felt confident enough to write it. It’s a time in my life I’m ashamed of. It’s a time that I hurt people and, through inaction, allowed others to be hurt. It’s a time that I acted as a violent agent of capitalism and white supremacy. Under the guise of public safety, I personally ruined people’s lives but in so doing, made the public no safer… so did the family members and close friends of mine who also bore the badge alongside me.

But enough is enough.

The reforms aren’t working. Incrementalism isn’t happening. Unarmed Black, indigenous, and people of color are being killed by cops in the streets and the police are savagely attacking the people protesting these murders.

American policing is a thick blue tumor strangling the life from our communities and if you don’t believe it when the poor and the marginalized say it, if you don’t believe it when you see cops across the country shooting journalists with less-lethal bullets and caustic chemicals, maybe you’ll believe it when you hear it straight from the pig’s mouth.”

>>Copied here in case anyone gets paywalled when they click the above. The full article is...a lot.<<

WHY AM I WRITING THIS

As someone who went through the training, hiring, and socialization of a career in law enforcement, I wanted to give a first-hand account of why I believe police officers are the way they are. Not to excuse their behavior, but to explain it and to indict the structures that perpetuate it.

I believe that if everyone understood how we’re trained and brought up in the profession, it would inform the demands our communities should be making of a new way of community safety. If I tell you how we were made, I hope it will empower you to unmake us.

One of the other reasons I’ve struggled to write this essay is that I don’t want to center the conversation on myself and my big salty boo-hoo feelings about my bad choices. It’s a toxic white impulse to see atrocities and think “How can I make this about me?” So, I hope you’ll take me at my word that this account isn’t meant to highlight me, but rather the hundred thousand of me in every city in the country. It’s about the structure that made me (that I chose to pollute myself with) and it’s my meager contribution to the cause of radical justice.

YES, ALL COPS ARE BASTARDS

I was a police officer in a major metropolitan area in California with a predominantly poor, non-white population (with a large proportion of first-generation immigrants). One night during briefing, our watch commander told us that the city council had requested a new zero tolerance policy. Against murderers, drug dealers, or child predators?

No, against homeless people collecting cans from recycling bins.

See, the city had some kickback deal with the waste management company where waste management got paid by the government for our expected tonnage of recycling. When homeless people “stole” that recycling from the waste management company, they were putting that cheaper contract in peril. So, we were to arrest as many recyclers as we could find.

Even for me, this was a stupid policy and I promptly blew Sarge off. But a few hours later, Sarge called me over to assist him. He was detaining a 70 year old immigrant who spoke no English, who he’d seen picking a coke can out of a trash bin. He ordered me to arrest her for stealing trash. I said, “Sarge, c’mon, she’s an old lady.” He said, “I don’t give a shit. Hook her up, that’s an order.” And… I did. She cried the entire way to the station and all through the booking process. I couldn’t even comfort her because I didn’t speak Spanish. I felt disgusting but I was ordered to make this arrest and I wasn’t willing to lose my job for her.

If you’re tempted to feel sympathy for me, don’t. I used to happily hassle the homeless under other circumstances. I researched obscure penal codes so I could arrest people in homeless encampments for lesser known crimes like “remaining too close to railroad property” (369i of the California Penal Code). I used to call it “planting warrant seeds” since I knew they wouldn’t make their court dates and we could arrest them again and again for warrant violations.

We used to have informal contests for who could cite or arrest someone for the weirdest law. DUI on a bicycle, non-regulation number of brooms on your tow truck (27700(a)(1) of the California Vehicle Code)… shit like that. For me, police work was a logic puzzle for arresting people, regardless of their actual threat to the community. As ashamed as I am to admit it, it needs to be said: stripping people of their freedom felt like a game to me for many years.

I know what you’re going to ask: did I ever plant drugs? Did I ever plant a gun on someone? Did I ever make a false arrest or file a false report? Believe it or not, the answer is no. Cheating was no fun, I liked to get my stats the “legitimate” way. But I knew officers who kept a little baggie of whatever or maybe a pocket knife that was a little too big in their war bags (yeah, we called our dufflebags “war bags”…). Did I ever tell anybody about it? No I did not. Did I ever confess my suspicions when cocaine suddenly showed up in a gang member’s jacket? No I did not.

In fact, let me tell you about an extremely formative experience: in my police academy class, we had a clique of around six trainees who routinely bullied and harassed other students: intentionally scuffing another trainee’s shoes to get them in trouble during inspection, sexually harassing female trainees, cracking racist jokes, and so on. Every quarter, we were to write anonymous evaluations of our squadmates. I wrote scathing accounts of their behavior, thinking I was helping keep bad apples out of law enforcement and believing I would be protected. Instead, the academy staff read my complaints to them out loud and outed me to them and never punished them, causing me to get harassed for the rest of my academy class. That’s how I learned that even police leadership hates rats. That’s why no one is “changing things from the inside.” They can’t, the structure won’t allow it.

And that’s the point of what I’m telling you. Whether you were my sergeant, legally harassing an old woman, me, legally harassing our residents, my fellow trainees bullying the rest of us, or “the bad apples” illegally harassing “shitbags”, we were all in it together. I knew cops that pulled women over to flirt with them. I knew cops who would pepper spray sleeping bags so that homeless people would have to throw them away. I knew cops that intentionally provoked anger in suspects so they could claim they were assaulted. I was particularly good at winding people up verbally until they lashed out so I could fight them. Nobody spoke out. Nobody stood up. Nobody betrayed the code.

None of us protected the people (you) from bad cops.

This is why “All cops are bastards.” Even your uncle, even your cousin, even your mom, even your brother, even your best friend, even your spouse, even me. Because even if they wouldn’t Do The Thing themselves, they will almost never rat out another officer who Does The Thing, much less stop it from happening.

BASTARD 101

I could write an entire book of the awful things I’ve done, seen done, and heard others bragging about doing. But, to me, the bigger question is “How did it get this way?”. While I was a police officer in a city 30 miles from where I lived, many of my fellow officers were from the community and treated their neighbors just as badly as I did. While every cop’s individual biases come into play, it’s the profession itself that is toxic, and it starts from day 1 of training.

Every police academy is different but all of them share certain features: taught by old cops, run like a paramilitary bootcamp, strong emphasis on protecting yourself more than anyone else. The majority of my time in the academy was spent doing aggressive physical training and watching video after video after video of police officers being murdered on duty.

I want to highlight this: nearly everyone coming into law enforcement is bombarded with dash cam footage of police officers being ambushed and killed. Over and over and over. Colorless VHS mortality plays, cops screaming for help over their radios, their bodies going limp as a pair of tail lights speed away into a grainy black horizon. In my case, with commentary from an old racist cop who used to brag about assaulting Black Panthers.

To understand why all cops are bastards, you need to understand one of the things almost every training officer told me when it came to using force:

“I’d rather be judged by 12 than carried by 6.”

Meaning, “I’ll take my chances in court rather than risk getting hurt”. We’re able to think that way because police unions are extremely overpowered and because of the generous concept of Qualified Immunity, a legal theory which says a cop generally can’t be held personally liable for mistakes they make doing their job in an official capacity.

When you look at the actions of the officers who killed George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, David McAtee, Mike Brown, Tamir Rice, Philando Castile, Eric Garner, or Freddie Gray, remember that they, like me, were trained to recite “I’d rather be judged by 12” as a mantra. Even if Mistakes Were Made™, the city (meaning the taxpayers, meaning you) pays the settlement, not the officer.

Once police training has - through repetition, indoctrination, and violent spectacle - promised officers that everyone in the world is out to kill them, the next lesson is that your partners are the only people protecting you. Occasionally, this is even true: I’ve had encounters turn on me rapidly to the point I legitimately thought I was going to die, only to have other officers come and turn the tables.

One of the most important thought leaders in law enforcement is Col. Dave Grossman, a “killologist” who wrote an essay called “Sheep, Wolves, and Sheepdogs”. Cops are the sheepdogs, bad guys are the wolves, and the citizens are the sheep (!). Col. Grossman makes sure to mention that to a stupid sheep, sheepdogs look more like wolves than sheep, and that’s why they dislike you.

This “they hate you for protecting them and only I love you, only I can protect you” tactic is familiar to students of abuse. It’s what abusers do to coerce their victims into isolation, pulling them away from friends and family and ensnaring them in the abuser’s toxic web. Law enforcement does this too, pitting the officer against civilians. “They don’t understand what you do, they don’t respect your sacrifice, they just want to get away with crimes. You’re only safe with us.”

I think the Wolves vs. Sheepdogs dynamic is one of the most important elements as to why officers behave the way they do. Every single second of my training, I was told that criminals were not a legitimate part of their community, that they were individual bad actors, and that their bad actions were solely the result of their inherent criminality. Any concept of systemic trauma, generational poverty, or white supremacist oppression was either never mentioned or simply dismissed. After all, most people don’t steal, so anyone who does isn’t “most people,” right? To us, anyone committing a crime deserved anything that happened to them because they broke the “social contract.” And yet, it was never even a question as to whether the power structure above them was honoring any sort of contract back.

Understand: Police officers are part of the state monopoly on violence and all police training reinforces this monopoly as a cornerstone of police work, a source of honor and pride. Many cops fantasize about getting to kill someone in the line of duty, egged on by others that have. One of my training officers told me about the time he shot and killed a mentally ill homeless man wielding a big stick. He bragged that he “slept like a baby” that night. Official training teaches you how to be violent effectively and when you’re legally allowed to deploy that violence, but “unofficial training” teaches you to desire violence, to expand the breadth of your violence without getting caught, and to erode your own compassion for desperate people so you can justify punitive violence against them.

HOW TO BE A BASTARD

I have participated in some of these activities personally, others are ones I either witnessed personally or heard officers brag about openly. Very, very occasionally, I knew an officer who was disciplined or fired for one of these things.

Police officers will lie about the law, about what’s illegal, or about what they can legally do to you in order to manipulate you into doing what they want.

Police officers will lie about feeling afraid for their life to justify a use of force after the fact.

Police officers will lie and tell you they’ll file a police report just to get you off their back.

Police officers will lie that your cooperation will “look good for you” in court, or that they will “put in a good word for you with the DA.” The police will never help you look good in court.

Police officers will lie about what they see and hear to access private property to conduct unlawful searches.

Police officers will lie and say your friend already ratted you out, so you might as well rat them back out. This is almost never true.

Police officers will lie and say you’re not in trouble in order to get you to exit a location or otherwise make an arrest more convenient for them.

Police officers will lie and say that they won’t arrest you if you’ll just “be honest with them” so they know what really happened.

Police officers will lie about their ability to seize the property of friends and family members to coerce a confession.

Police officers will write obviously bullshit tickets so that they get time-and-a-half overtime fighting them in court.

Police officers will search places and containers you didn’t consent to and later claim they were open or “smelled like marijuana”.

Police officers will threaten you with a more serious crime they can’t prove in order to convince you to confess to the lesser crime they really want you for.

Police officers will employ zero tolerance on races and ethnicities they dislike and show favor and lenience to members of their own group.

Police officers will use intentionally extra-painful maneuvers and holds during an arrest to provoke “resistance” so they can further assault the suspect.

Some police officers will plant drugs and weapons on you, sometimes to teach you a lesson, sometimes if they kill you somewhere away from public view.

Some police officers will assault you to intimidate you and threaten to arrest you if you tell anyone.

A non-trivial number of police officers will steal from your house or vehicle during a search.

A non-trivial number of police officers commit intimate partner violence and use their status to get away with it.

A non-trivial number of police officers use their position to entice, coerce, or force sexual favors from vulnerable people.

If you take nothing else away from this essay, I want you to tattoo this onto your brain forever: if a police officer is telling you something, it is probably a lie designed to gain your compliance.

Do not talk to cops and never, ever believe them. Do not “try to be helpful” with cops. Do not assume they are trying to catch someone else instead of you. Do not assume what they are doing is “important” or even legal. Under no circumstances assume any police officer is acting in good faith.

Also, and this is important, do not talk to cops.

I just remembered something, do not talk to cops.

Checking my notes real quick, something jumped out at me:

Do

not

fucking

talk

to

cops.

Ever.

Say, “I don’t answer questions,” and ask if you’re free to leave; if so, leave. If not, tell them you want your lawyer and that, per the Supreme Court, they must terminate questioning. If they don’t, file a complaint and collect some badges for your mantle.

DO THE BASTARDS EVER HELP?

Reading the above, you may be tempted to ask whether cops ever do anything good. And the answer is, sure, sometimes. In fact, most officers I worked with thought they were usually helping the helpless and protecting the safety of innocent people.

During my tenure in law enforcement, I protected women from domestic abusers, arrested cold-blooded murderers and child molesters, and comforted families who lost children to car accidents and other tragedies. I helped connect struggling people in my community with local resources for food, shelter, and counseling. I deescalated situations that could have turned violent and talked a lot of people down from making the biggest mistake of their lives. I worked with plenty of officers who were individually kind, bought food for homeless residents, or otherwise showed care for their community.

The question is this: did I need a gun and sweeping police powers to help the average person on the average night? The answer is no. When I was doing my best work as a cop, I was doing mediocre work as a therapist or a social worker. My good deeds were listening to people failed by the system and trying to unite them with any crumbs of resources the structure was currently denying them.

It’s also important to note that well over 90% of the calls for service I handled were reactive, showing up well after a crime had taken place. We would arrive, take a statement, collect evidence (if any), file the report, and onto the next caper. Most “active” crimes we stopped were someone harmless possessing or selling a small amount of drugs. Very, very rarely would we stop something dangerous in progress or stop something from happening entirely. The closest we could usually get was seeing someone running away from the scene of a crime, but the damage was still done.

And consider this: my job as a police officer required me to be a marriage counselor, a mental health crisis professional, a conflict negotiator, a social worker, a child advocate, a traffic safety expert, a sexual assault specialist, and, every once in awhile, a public safety officer authorized to use force, all after only a 1000 hours of training at a police academy. Does the person we send to catch a robber also need to be the person we send to interview a rape victim or document a fender bender? Should one profession be expected to do all that important community care (with very little training) all at the same time?

To put this another way: I made double the salary most social workers made to do a fraction of what they could do to mitigate the causes of crimes and desperation. I can count very few times my monopoly on state violence actually made our citizens safer, and even then, it’s hard to say better-funded social safety nets and dozens of other community care specialists wouldn’t have prevented a problem before it started.

Armed, indoctrinated (and dare I say, traumatized) cops do not make you safer; community mutual aid networks who can unite other people with the resources they need to stay fed, clothed, and housed make you safer. I really want to hammer this home: every cop in your neighborhood is damaged by their training, emboldened by their immunity, and they have a gun and the ability to take your life with near-impunity. This does not make you safer, even if you’re white.

HOW DO YOU SOLVE A PROBLEM LIKE A BASTARD?

So what do we do about it? Even though I’m an expert on bastardism, I am not a public policy expert nor an expert in organizing a post-police society. So, before I give some suggestions, let me tell you what probably won’t solve the problem of bastard cops:

Increased “bias” training. A quarterly or even monthly training session is not capable of covering over years of trauma-based camaraderie in police forces. I can tell you from experience, we don’t take it seriously, the proctors let us cheat on whatever “tests” there are, and we all made fun of it later over coffee.

Tougher laws. I hope you understand by now, cops do not follow the law and will not hold each other accountable to the law. Tougher laws are all the more reason to circle the wagons and protect your brothers and sisters.

More community policing programs. Yes, there is a marginal effect when a few cops get to know members of the community, but look at the protests of 2020: many of the cops pepper-spraying journalists were probably the nice school cop a month ago.

Police officers do not protect and serve people, they protect and serve the status quo, “polite society”, and private property. Using the incremental mechanisms of the status quo will never reform the police because the status quo relies on police violence to exist. Capitalism requires a permanent underclass to exploit for cheap labor and it requires the cops to bring that underclass to heel.

Instead of wasting time with minor tweaks, I recommend exploring the following ideas:

No more qualified immunity. Police officers should be personally liable for all decisions they make in the line of duty.

No more civil asset forfeiture. Did you know that every year, citizens like you lose more cash and property to unaccountable civil asset forfeiture than to all burglaries combined? The police can steal your stuff without charging you with a crime and it makes some police departments very rich.

Break the power of police unions. Police unions make it nearly impossible to fire bad cops and incentivize protecting them to protect the power of the union. A police union is not a labor union; police officers are powerful state agents, not exploited workers.

Require malpractice insurance. Doctors must pay for insurance in case they botch a surgery, police officers should do the same for botching a police raid or other use of force. If human decency won’t motivate police to respect human life, perhaps hitting their wallet might.

Defund, demilitarize, and disarm cops. Thousands of police departments own assault rifles, armored personnel carriers, and stuff you’d see in a warzone. Police officers have grants and huge budgets to spend on guns, ammo, body armor, and combat training. 99% of calls for service require no armed response, yet when all you have is a gun, every problem feels like target practice. Cities are not safer when unaccountable bullies have a monopoly on state violence and the equipment to execute that monopoly.

One final idea: consider abolishing the police.

I know what you’re thinking, “What? We need the police! They protect us!” As someone who did it for nearly a decade, I need you to understand that by and large, police protection is marginal, incidental. It’s an illusion created by decades of copaganda designed to fool you into thinking these brave men and women are holding back the barbarians at the gates.

I alluded to this above: the vast majority of calls for service I handled were theft reports, burglary reports, domestic arguments that hadn’t escalated into violence, loud parties, (houseless) people loitering, traffic collisions, very minor drug possession, and arguments between neighbors. Mostly the mundane ups and downs of life in the community, with little inherent danger. And, like I mentioned, the vast majority of crimes I responded to (even violent ones) had already happened; my unaccountable license to kill was irrelevant.

What I mainly provided was an “objective” third party with the authority to document property damage, ask people to chill out or disperse, or counsel people not to beat each other up. A trained counselor or conflict resolution specialist would be ten times more effective than someone with a gun strapped to his hip wondering if anyone would try to kill him when he showed up. There are many models for community safety that can be explored if we get away from the idea that the only way to be safe is to have a man with a M4 rifle prowling your neighborhood ready at a moment’s notice to write down your name and birthday after you’ve been robbed and beaten.

You might be asking, “What about the armed robbers, the gangsters, the drug dealers, the serial killers?” And yes, in the city I worked, I regularly broke up gang parties, found gang members carrying guns, and handled homicides. I’ve seen some tragic things, from a reformed gangster shot in the head with his brains oozing out to a fifteen year old boy taking his last breath in his screaming mother’s arms thanks to a gang member’s bullet. I know the wages of violence.

This is where we have to have the courage to ask: why do people rob? Why do they join gangs? Why do they get addicted to drugs or sell them? It’s not because they are inherently evil. I submit to you that these are the results of living in a capitalist system that grinds people down and denies them housing, medical care, human dignity, and a say in their government. These are the results of white supremacy pushing people to the margins, excluding them, disrespecting them, and treating their bodies as disposable.

Equally important to remember: disabled and mentally ill people are frequently killed by police officers not trained to recognize and react to disabilities or mental health crises. Some of the people we picture as “violent offenders” are often people struggling with untreated mental illness, often due to economic hardships. Very frequently, the officers sent to “protect the community” escalate this crisis and ultimately wound or kill the person. Your community was not made safer by police violence; a sick member of your community was killed because it was cheaper than treating them. Are you extremely confident you’ll never get sick one day too?

Wrestle with this for a minute: if all of someone’s material needs were met and all the members of their community were fed, clothed, housed, and dignified, why would they need to join a gang? Why would they need to risk their lives selling drugs or breaking into buildings? If mental healthcare was free and was not stigmatized, how many lives would that save?

Would there still be a few bad actors in the world? Sure, probably. What’s my solution for them, you’re no doubt asking. I’ll tell you what: generational poverty, food insecurity, houselessness, and for-profit medical care are all problems that can be solved in our lifetimes by rejecting the dehumanizing meat grinder of capitalism and white supremacy. Once that’s done, we can work on the edge cases together, with clearer hearts not clouded by a corrupt system.

Police abolition is closely related to the idea of prison abolition and the entire concept of banishing the carceral state, meaning, creating a society focused on reconciliation and restorative justice instead of punishment, pain, and suffering — a system that sees people in crisis as humans, not monsters. People who want to abolish the police typically also want to abolish prisons, and the same questions get asked: “What about the bad guys? Where do we put them?” I bring this up because abolitionists don’t want to simply replace cops with armed social workers or prisons with casual detention centers full of puffy leather couches and Playstations. We imagine a world not divided into good guys and bad guys, but rather a world where people’s needs are met and those in crisis receive care, not dehumanization.

Here’s legendary activist and thinker Angela Y. Davis putting it better than I ever could:

“An abolitionist approach that seeks to answer questions such as these would require us to imagine a constellation of alternative strategies and institutions, with the ultimate aim of removing the prison from the social and ideological landscapes of our society. In other words, we would not be looking for prisonlike substitutes for the prison, such as house arrest safeguarded by electronic surveillance bracelets. Rather, positing decarceration as our overarching strategy, we would try to envision a continuum of alternatives to imprisonment-demilitarization of schools, revitalization of education at all levels, a health system that provides free physical and mental care to all, and a justice system based on reparation and reconciliation rather than retribution and vengeance.”

(Are Prisons Obsolete, pg. 107)

I’m not telling you I have the blueprint for a beautiful new world. What I’m telling you is that the system we have right now is broken beyond repair and that it’s time to consider new ways of doing community together. Those new ways need to be negotiated by members of those communities, particularly Black, indigenous, disabled, houseless, and citizens of color historically shoved into the margins of society. Instead of letting Fox News fill your head with nightmares about Hispanic gangs, ask the Hispanic community what they need to thrive. Instead of letting racist politicians scaremonger about pro-Black demonstrators, ask the Black community what they need to meet the needs of the most vulnerable. If you truly desire safety, ask not what your most vulnerable can do for the community, ask what the community can do for the most vulnerable.

A WORLD WITH FEWER BASTARDS IS POSSIBLE

If you take only one thing away from this essay, I hope it’s this: do not talk to cops. But if you only take two things away, I hope the second one is that it’s possible to imagine a different world where unarmed black people, indigenous people, poor people, disabled people, and people of color are not routinely gunned down by unaccountable police officers. It doesn’t have to be this way. Yes, this requires a leap of faith into community models that might feel unfamiliar, but I ask you:

When you see a man dying in the street begging for breath, don’t you want to leap away from that world?

When you see a mother or a daughter shot to death sleeping in their beds, don’t you want to leap away from that world?

When you see a twelve year old boy executed in a public park for the crime of playing with a toy, jesus fucking christ, can you really just stand there and think “This is normal”?

And to any cops who made it this far down, is this really the world you want to live in? Aren’t you tired of the trauma? Aren’t you tired of the soul sickness inherent to the badge? Aren’t you tired of looking the other way when your partners break the law? Are you really willing to kill the next George Floyd, the next Breonna Taylor, the next Tamir Rice? How confident are you that your next use of force will be something you’re proud of? I’m writing this for you too: it’s wrong what our training did to us, it’s wrong that they hardened our hearts to our communities, and it’s wrong to pretend this is normal.

Look, I wouldn’t have been able to hear any of this for much of my life. You reading this now may not be able to hear this yet either. But do me this one favor: just think about it. Just turn it over in your mind for a couple minutes. “Yes, And” me for a minute. Look around you and think about the kind of world you want to live in. Is it one where an all-powerful stranger with a gun keeps you and your neighbors in line with the fear of death, or can you picture a world where, as a community, we embrace our most vulnerable, meet their needs, heal their wounds, honor their dignity, and make them family instead of desperate outsiders?

If you take only three things away from this essay, I hope the third is this: you and your community don’t need bastards to thrive.

RESOURCES TO YES-AND WITH

Achele Mbembe — Necropolitics

Angela Y. Davis — Are Prisons Obsolete?

CriticalResistance.org — Abolition Toolkit

Joe Macaré, Maya Schenwar, and Alana Yu-lan Price — Who Do You Serve, Who Do You Protect?

Ruth Wilson Gilmore — COVID-19, Decarceration, Abolition [video]