#honda metropolitan

[shummthechumm]

car shopping while everything is inflated to hell is torture actually. do i drop 5k on a well-used car and risk getting shackled to a bad vehicle; or do i take several more months to save up 10k (at minimum) to get a less-well-used car but also restricting my university progression because my campus is 40+ minutes away + im not paying for a dorm

[ajleeblog]

(via The 2025 Honda Metropolitan: A Stylish Companion for Urban Commuting)

[yanderederee]

Boys on Bikes

A discussion piece about motorcycles!

Also note; these Motorcycles were Modified in the anime, since that’s what you did in a Biker Gang lol. The individuality of these loud modifications made them one-of-a-kind bikes! So stuff like Kazutora’s Windshield and Baji’s second-seater are not apart of the original design.

More Discussion Pieces here: BozosokuCulture

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈

Mikey - Honda: CB250t, Hawk (1978) / Scooter**

Draken - Kawasaki: Zephyr 400 (1989)

Baji - Suzuki: GSX250e (1984)

Kazutora - Kawasaki: KH400, Rocket (1976-80)

Mitsuya - Suzuki GSX400FS, Impulse (1982) *my personal favorite

Now listen.

There is something to be said about Mikey’s scooter.

This Scooter is fucking impossible to find. So much so I’m questioning it’s existence**.

(I also really like how Draken confirmed that most of the guys got their Bikes via Hand-me-down or through connections by their Senpai’s lol) / Besides Baji? Who I think found his.

** Honda came out with a lot of ‘scooter types’ in the early 2000���s, but nothing for the Hawk models.

I found this really hidden away Giorno 50cc model from 1995, and Japan did remodel them 2011-2022 era, so maybe this was the inspiration? But if you look at the Nose the Headlight of MIKEY’S Scooter, they closely resemble the Elite Model more.

Like ?? The Elite and Metropolitan models are the closest I could actually find.

Interesting.

—-…

I was raised around the Harley Davidson mechanic shops my dad owned/worked at, I wish I remembered which one he’d drive me around on as a kid, but we’re no longer close.

I could make a Part2 to this too lmao..

[beardedmrbean]

Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) was carjacked at gunpoint Monday outside his Washington, DC, apartment building, according to his office. 

The 68-year-old south Texas lawmaker was unharmed during the incident in DC’s trendy Navy Yard neighborhood at approximately 9:32 p.m., according to DC’s Metropolitan Police Department. 

“As Congressman Cuellar was parking his car this evening, three armed assailants approached the congressman and stole his vehicle,” Cuellar’s chief of staff Jacob Hochberg told The Post.

“Luckily, he was not harmed and is working with local law enforcement. Thank you to Metro PD and Capitol Police for their swift action and for recovering the congressman’s vehicle.”

Cuellar was reportedly outside “a dorm building in which dozens” of House members live, according to Axios reporter Andrew Solender, who cited a group chat used by the lawmakers who occupy the building. 

Three men reportedly held guns to Cuellar’s head as they took his phone and vehicle, which was parked on the street, according to the group chat. 

An MPD crime alert on the incident says police are on the lookout for “three black males wearing all black clothing” who made off with the congressman’s white Honda with Texas tags. 

The alert warns the public to “not take action” but instead call 911 if the vehicle or suspects are spotted.

Capitol Police told The Post that the armed carjacking is being investigated by DC police and USCP investigators.  

“Injuries were not reported. Detectives are working to track down the suspects,” a spokesperson for USCP said.

The incident is the latest in a series of violent crimes in the district this year that have affected members of Congress or their staffs. 

In February, Rep. Angie Craig (D-Minn.) was assaulted in the elevator of her northeast DC apartment building by a homeless man with a long rap sheet. She suffered bruises as a result of the attack and got away by tossing her hot morning coffee at the assailant. 

The following month, a staffer for Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.)  was brutally attacked in broad daylight by a knife-wielding assailant in DC, on the same street where Craig was assaulted. 

The staffer, 26-year-old Phillip Todd, suffered serious injuries in the attack, including multiple stab wounds to the head and chest.

In June, a staffer for Rep. Brad Finstad (R-Minn.) was attacked at gunpoint near Nationals Park in Washington, DC, just hours after the conclusion of the annual Congressional Baseball Game. 

That staffer suffered minor injuries in the attack, which occurred in the same neighborhood where Cuellar was carjacked. 

To date, 750 carjackings have been reported in DC this year alone, with 75% involving a firearm. 

That is a 115% increase in the number of carjackings from this time last year, according to DC police crime statistics.

[shachaai]

[Hetalia Version] The Lindworm’s Lullaby

Chapters: 4/14 Rating: Explicit (For Gore) Main Relationships: Arthur Kirkland (England)/Gabriel Cardoso Fernandes (Portugal) Characters: Arthur Kirkland (England), Gabriel Cardoso Fernandes (Portugal), Original Child Character(s), Ludwig Beilschmidt (Germany), Julia Blumenschien (Fem Prussia), Kiku Honda (Japan), Lovino Vargas (South Italy), Assorted Others Other Tags/Warnings: Alternate Universe - Human AU, FBI Murder Mystery/Thriller, Case Fic, Adapted from a Hannibal Fic, Baby Fic, Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics, Alpha Gabriel Fernandes, Omega Arthur Kirkland, Pre-Relationship, Unresolved Sexual Tension, Single Parent Arthur Kirkland, Violence and Gore Canon-Typical to Hannibal Levels, Cute Moments and Murder, Murder Scenes, Dead Bodies, Poisoning, Discussions about torture/infidelity/rape

The FBI is called in to investigate when a series of bodies shows up around Ohio: all of them alphas, and all of them skinned alive. With the killer’s motives a mystery, Ludwig Beilschmidt pulls Arthur Kirkland from the classroom and his vigil at the comatose Madeline Williams’ bedside once more to lend his insight to the case - with very little mind paid to the fact that the busy Arthur, omega and single mother to a six month-old daughter, might have some scheduling issues. Necessity - and pressure from Ludwig - drives Arthur into reluctantly asking Gabriel Fernandes for a favour at short notice. Gabriel is delighted to help Arthur with babysitting - once he has, of course, recovered from both the surprise of learning that Arthur Kirkland even has a baby to care for and, presented with the adorable armful that is a sleepy Lenore Kirkland, feeling a little skinned raw himself.

*****

CHAPTER 1 | CHAPTER 2 | CHAPTER 3

*****

*****

Chapter 4: fancy unto fancy

Arthur’s advice to Gabriel, mostly sent via text, is to take a longer and more circuitous route from Quantico to the Kirkland home in Wolf Trap rather than relying solely on the interstate highways. Fairfax County, where Wolf Trap is located, is part of the Washington metropolitan area and has the notorious achievement of being the third-worst area in the entirety of the United States of America for congested traffic. The effect is at its worst during rush hour, tired workers of the 9-to-5 regime making the commute to and from D.C., but the demands of the capital necessitate a workforce available at all hours of the day and night - and, thus, ascertain that the arteries which supply aforementioned workforce will never be clear.

Gabriel takes the - unavoidable - I-95 north from Quantico in Arthur’s thoroughly-used car, the faint odour of damp canine and baby shampoo in his nose. The olfactory mix is strange but infinitely preferable to the overpowering and abominably artificial pine of Arthur’s car freshener which had assaulted Gabriel as soon as he had gotten behind the wheel of Arthur’s Volvo, drilling something sharp, chemical and lime green straight through to the back of his skull with all the painful, migraine-inducing grace of an ice-pick. Snatching up the little tree dangling from the rearview mirror, Gabriel had (after reading the 100% biodegradable obnoxiously emblazoned across its chemical-soaked surface) thrown the freshener out of the driver-side window with extreme prejudice, wiping his befouled hand - somewhat - clean afterwards on the leg of his trousers.

Lenore Kirkland immediately demonstrates better taste than her mother by clapping her little starfish hands together and shrieking with glee as the little tree, caught at once by the wind, whips past her window, dropping her drool-wet stuffed dog toy from her mouth onto her lap.

The infant’s absolute delight at such a simple thing is a pleasure to witness, the joy of discovery suffusing Lenore’s little body entirely and rendering her a creation of pure and innocent grace. A spotless child of the biblical Garden, still unaware yet of the difference between the corrupt definitions of Good and Bad. Still unspoilt by either serpents or gods, untainted by the taste of bittersweet knowledge on the tongue.

Lenore all but glows and her sweetly childish jouissance draws the twitch of a smile from Gabriel when he glances at the infant every so often in the rearview mirror. Focusing on the night black of her curls when the memories of another happily shrieking little brunette girl threaten to rise up close to the forefront of his mind, distant days where it had been bubbles blown through golden baby bracelets entertaining the little one, Gabriel humming nursery rhymes himself rather than listening to the vibration of recorded strings on the radio.

For all she remains obstinately awake, Lenore is a pleasant enough companion on their hour-long journey through Virginia to her home. She ba ba bas her way through several Mozart suites on the radio and listens in rapt silence to Saint-Saëns’ The Swan. (Relative silence. There is something coloured neon yellow and green rolling around in the passenger-side footwell that rattles loudly every time it moves, which Gabriel strongly suspects is one of Lenore’s baby toys.) She coos in fascination at the bright yellow car in the lane beside them at one set of traffic lights, and makes a long drawn-out ohh of wonder when Gabriel points out a whale-shaped cloud to her on their right.

Gabriel turns off the interstate as they approach Wolf Trap, taking the smaller roads that twist and turn through affluent suburbia in an effort to avoid the Dulles Toll Road. Multiple signs point to the way to the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts and all its associated performance halls, to the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens and countless parks and nature reserves full of winding trails and fishing spots. Woods and forests nestle leisure, culture and art in their bosom, and each turn in the road brings a new little patch of houses, a few shops, another sign pointing the way to another park - or a much less halcyonic Walmart.

Lenore is still quietly singing to herself (motivated, now, by Bach’s Air on a G String) as Gabriel makes the turn down the road that the sat-nav promises him will be the final one before the Kirkland home. The road is lined with trees. The red evening sun flashes down on Gabriel’s arms as he passes beneath the foliage, the asphalt ahead lined by the shadow bars of overhead branches and the speckled pattern of leaves swaying in the breeze. Here and there, between the trunks either side of the road, Gabriel catches glimpses of endless fields and scrubland, large individual homes at the end of long driveways. As fewer newer builds - McMansions - as older, more traditional ones.

Obviously - and more obviously by the second -, Arthur Kirkland lives as far away from other people as both convenience and suburbia will allow him to. Even though he’s still driving down the same road as before it has been some time since Gabriel last saw a patch of dwellings clustered close to one another, and the distance between mailboxes along the road is growing cumulatively longer and longer with each one passed. And yet. The turn-off to the home of Arthur’s nearest neighbour, the one Arthur had referred to as Nancy, is, truly, quite difficult to miss. One bright red mailbox thrusts itself prominently out into the road beside a well-kept and clean beige gravel drive, with multiple bright flower stickers covering the mailbox and multi-coloured yarn knitted around its pole. Someone has hung Chinese-style lanterns in the nearby trees - along with what looks like a giant knitted ladybird.

Gabriel ignores it. (Both the turn-off and the ladybird.) He had made up his mind about what he planned to do with Lenore that evening the moment he had laid eyes on the child, and none of it had ever involved foisting Lenore on the infamously be-permed Nancy.

Almost a full eight minute drive after Nancy’s mailbox, Gabriel’s sat-nav announces the turn-off to the Kirkland residence - apparently the last residential stop on the road for miles.

Gravel and dirt ping quietly off the body of the Volvo as Gabriel makes his way up the Kirklands’ drive, the vehicle's wheels crunching over dried leaves and browning sticks that have fallen onto the lane. The land around the drive - Arthur’s land - is still heavily wooded, obscuring the much-awaited sight of the FBI professor’s home until, quite abruptly, the treeline reaches its end and Gabriel is there.

In contrast to many of the large houses and mansions Gabriel had seen driving through the county, the house Arthur and Lenore Kirkland call home is a relatively normal-sized abode. Built farmhouse style, the house is a glimpse of rustic domesticity amidst fields of long, whispering grass, its clapboard walls painted a homely white in defiance of the not-too-distant shadowy woods. Ivy and honeysuckle climb the posts supporting the covered porch and local vegetation grows wild right up to the steps.

The front of the house is slipping into dark shadow as Gabriel inches up the gravel drive, the sun descending in the sky behind the building to the right, over what looks like a large barn or shed out in the nearby field. The sunset blazes some of its last glory even as Gabriel parks the Volvo and lets its engine die, a moment of perfect, still beauty hanging in the air like a teardrop from a phoenix’s eye.

Lenore Kirkland abruptly realises that the car’s radio has been switched off and starts shrieking in outrage, bursting apart the moment’s peace like a soap bubble in the sink.

Gabriel winces but leaves the infant to it. No doubt something else will take Lenore’s attention soon and the shrieking will stop, leaving Gabriel free to occupy himself with the other distractions Wolf Trap has to offer him. Just stepping out of the car he can hear multiple dogs barking inside the house - prompting the ruefully belated realisation in Gabriel that he had neglected to ask Arthur just how many dogs the professor actually owned. Too lost in his own starry-eyed wonder at the revelation of Lenore’s existence at the time, his thoughts sent in too many directions at once after only just learning about Arthur’s motherhood.

Some of Lenore’s charm begins to fade when the little girl, rather than quietening down, screams all the louder when Gabriel unbuckles her from her car seat, thoroughly upset now that music time is at an end. Even bringing her small body up against his shoulder does nothing; Lenore stubbornly refusing to be placated by her mother’s scent on the scarf that Arthur had loaned Gabriel, turning her face away from Gabriel’s throat and throwing a truly impressive baby temper tantrum with flailing hands and feet kicking against Gabriel’s chest. All the while shrieking. All furious infantile betrayal and upset. Endless wordless noise that makes Gabriel’s eardrums ring with Lenore so close to them in his arms.

With the infant protesting so much and so physically, Gabriel settles on taking just Lenore up from the car to the porch for now. Leaving their bags in the car, the tall grass parting around Gabriel’s ankles like Moses’ first faithful steps out into the waiting Red Sea. A divine miracle of timely seasonality.

Lenore rewards Gabriel’s focus on her care by kicking him rather hard - for a six month-old in soft footed pyjamas - in the ribs, prompting Gabriel to lift her teary scowling face up and away from his shoulder when they reach the cover of the porch. She throws Kitty behind them in the grass, and tears the clip of her pacifier from her cardigan when Gabriel tries to offer her the nub to chew on, flinging both pacifier and its beaded cord down in a melodramatic clatter on the porch’s planks. 

“That is hardly becoming behaviour for a little princess,” Gabriel firmly informs his charge, giving Lenore a gentle bounce in his arms. One, two: her mittens and the hood and little stubby tail on the back of her cardigan bounce as well. Her cheeks are red with fury. “Aren’t you going to welcome me to your home?”

Lenore yells even louder than before - directly into Gabriel’s ear. “Na! Nabayah!” And, louder and more defiantly to Gabriel’s third bounce - “NA!”

Her screeching has worked up the dogs inside the house even more. Judging by all the different barks, there has to be at least four canines in the pack; Gabriel can hear the thud of multiple heavy paws against the inside of the front door, the screen door rattling on the porch.

Inwardly, Gabriel sighs. It would be a bad idea to try and enter the house with Lenore in such a temper. Gabriel has some concern that Arthur’s dogs might actually attack him if they think he - a stranger - is endangering a member of their human family, so he takes a seat on the battered and creaking swing-seat nearby him on the porch instead. Rubbing soothingly against Lenore’s back even as the infant continues to scream, kick and flail at him, pushing his feet against the boards beneath them to set the swing-seat gently rocking.

If nothing else, Gabriel has to grudgingly admire the size of both Lenore Kirkland’s determinedly stubborn streak and her impressive lung capacity. Her passion for music. Perhaps Arthur has some fae banshee blood in him for his daughter to have inherited such a penchant for ear-splitting wailing, mother and daughter alike dark twin omens of imminent death and woe.

Gabriel will have to recommend Arthur get Lenore invested in swimming when she is a little older. With some training to accompany her natural ability, the child would be lethal underwater. Another Olympian for America or Great Britain’s swim-team - or a traditional ama of Japan, should the interest take her in that direction.

The wild grass in the fields continues to ripple and flow with the wind. In the distant trees, the shadows of birds take flight.

Gabriel begins to tell Lenore about ama as she continues to shriek against his shoulder and he continues to gently rock them both back and forth in Arthur’s creaking swing. Of the dwindling numbers of those freediving omega women of Japan who still dive without scuba gear or air tanks to bring up treasures from the deeps: seafood and abalones for shrines and the Japanese emperors. Shining sea pearls that had once birthed pearl aquaculture in Toba, Japan.

Ama begin their training in early adolescence, even before presentation of their secondary gender. Girls are favoured for the life due to the distribution of fat within their bodies, their perceived superior ability to hold their breath underwater for longer than boys. Of the secondary genders, omegas are preferred for their perceived purity. The touch of an omega is unable to taint the food or lustrous gems ama search for the way more carnal betas or alphas might do - but a truly talented beta or alpha could still, with enough persistence and patience for cleansing rituals, still be considered pure enough to remain an ama after presentation. The white uniforms - once, traditionally, only simple loincloths - worn by ama reflect their intensely honed skills and innate virtue, and their equally traditional headscarves are decorated with wards to bring them luck and protection whilst they dive.

Eventually, Lenore has to pause for breath. Eventually, Lenore has to pause for breath at a point when she is just too exhausted to pick up her wailing again afterwards, her small chest heaving against Gabriel’s larger one with tiredness. Sticky tears spot her cheeks like pearls and sea-spray.

“All finished?” Gabriel asks her then, his ears still ringing in the - relative - quiet.

Lenore hiccups back at him and burbles a long nonsense string of sad stuttering syllables, raising one of her hands to clumsily pat at Gabriel’s face again. Tug at one of his dangling curls. She smells like sour sweat and salt tears now over the creamy breastmilk note inherent to all infants, over the soft fruit and spice scents of her baby skin lotion and shampoo. Sadness and frustration.

“I know, ma boulette,” Gabriel comforts her, offering Lenore another gentle bounce when she hiccups wetly again, “I know. The universe is a large and uncaring place to exist within, and you are still so, so small. If God exists he answers prayers so rarely that to pray is to waste one’s breath, so scream as much as you feel the need to. If one cannot move Heaven, they must raise Hell instead.”

Lenore stares at him quizzically with her big, watery blue eyes, fat wobbling tears still clinging determinedly to her inky eyelashes. Gabriel brushes them away with the back of his knuckles before he lets Lenore snuggle-slump into the comfort of Arthur’s scarf again and all the scent trapped in its fibres, patting Lenore’s back with the slow and steady pace of a metronome to help her hiccups subside.

The sun has slipped well below the horizon now, somewhere behind the house, and long cool shadows snake their way up onto the covered porch where Gabriel sits with Lenore. It would hardly do for the infant to catch a chill so, after retrieving the abandoned Kitty and pacifier from the respective places Lenore had thrown them, Gabriel tries the door with the key Arthur had given him.

The dogs had stopped barking when Lenore stopped wailing, but they still rush out in an urgent wave of concern the moment the door swings open. And yes, dogs, plural: not two, not three, not even four but seven, a swirling maelstrom of wet noses and lashing tails that butt strongly against Gabriel’s ankles, knees and thighs. Two bark again at the sight of a stranger and one of the littlest - some terrier mix - growls, but all of them calm again when Lenore reaches down from her safe perch in Gabriel’s arms and babbles at them. Gives another little hiccup-hic, then giggles at herself.

Tails start tentatively wagging, and Kitty gets dropped again - bonking a momentarily confused border collie on the nose. Four of the seven dogs switch their priority from the stranger in their home to their need to go and relieve their bladders against a tree outside, leaving three - the terrier, an obviously elderly chihuahua mix with a tremendous underbite that may just be too tired to race off after the others, and a brindle-haired mutt with a sharp glint of intelligence in its eyes - to shadow Gabriel’s heels as he moves deeper into the Kirkland home, leaving the front door open behind him.

Even in the twilight gloom, Gabriel can see the continuous flow of being that moves through the Wolf Trap property, outside to inside to outside again. The interior’s colours are that of nature: that of stone and wood and foliage. The furniture is mismatched but alike in either deep orange, green, blue or brown, and the walls are painted a deep blue-green. Wide, open windows everywhere give sightlines to the fields everywhere around the main building, making the sky as much a backdrop of the rooms as the walls and ceilings are.

The front room - the living room - has a double-sized camp bed in it on one side. Arthur must use it as a daybed or casual nest for three sides of it have been piled high with overstuffed pillows, and the sheets in the soft basin that forms the middle of the nest are rumpled and unmade. It’s been recently used and smells strongly of both Arthur and Lenore from even a few metres away, a floating cloud of contentment that is drowsy with milk, with warm sunshine and sleep. The scent is as heavy in Gabriel’s nose as Lenore’s warm lulling weight is against his ribcage, a gentle tickling like featherdown at the back of Gabriel’s brain.

He turns his nose down into the collar of his shirt for a moment, breathing in the scent of his own cologne until his thoughts have lost some of their hazy edges.

The rest of the living room is dominated by bookshelves - packed tightly with a truly (fascinatingly) eclectic mix of fiction and non-fiction -, a fireplace, a dusty piano covered in tchotchkes, and several chairs. A table covered in shadowy unidentifiable objects has been positioned just so beneath one window so that, during the day, it must catch a favourable amount of light, but Gabriel cannot figure out what it might be used for until he switches on the overhead lights and literally illuminates himself.

Fishing. The crafting of fishing lures to be precise, though a line of fishing rods stand sentry on the wall beside the table, just waiting to be used. Drawers of bright threads and birds’ feathers sit beside rows of gleaming hooks, scavenged deer velvet and rabbit hair, a magnifying glass set up at the front of the table to study a half-finished lure waiting in its clamp for Arthur to return to it.

Gabriel admires both it and the rack of finished lures sitting at the back of the table: from what he can see, the craftsmanship of each of the lures is exquisite, the hooks beautifully, deceitfully, hidden from the sight of unsuspecting fish by glimmering scales and bright sprays of feathers. Lure by name, lure by nature.

Arthur has made an art of a bloodsport. Fishing is a hobby for the patient - and for the productive, taking life to bring life to others through food.

“Your mother is quite a remarkable man,” Gabriel informs Lenore, hoisting the little girl up in his arms again after she reaches down to wiggle her fingers at the brindle-haired mutt still dogging his footsteps. (Seeing that Gabriel is doing nothing of particular interest, the other two have given up.) “Isn’t he?”

“Ah-burr,” says Lenore quite seriously, and decides to wiggle her hot little fingers against Gabriel's face again instead, clumsily tracing the ridge of his nearest cheekbone.

Gabriel chooses to take that as agreement, silently observing the way the child’s pupils widen in wonder when she discovers the softness of his eyelashes - and making her giggle again when he blinks deliberately for her and tickles those lashes against her fingertips.

Brave curiosity ought to be rewarded.

The Kirkland home is, of course, not all rural serenity. Though the house is generally clean and obviously well-maintained, it cannot be denied that all the signs are there that Arthur Kirkland is the single mother to an infant child, with seven dogs, a very demanding and time-intensive job, and very little in the way of a support network. There is no dog hair on the furniture but the floor near the fireplace could do with some work, and chewed-up rope toys and tennis balls have been pushed under several seats and the nest Gabriel doesn’t dare to get too close to lest he mark it with his own alpha scent. Nearly every surface - including the piano’s closed lid - has been conquered by the type of clutter that always accumulates when raising a young child, and used baby bottles and empty mugs have been abandoned here, there and everywhere where an exhausted Arthur had no doubt left them during long and sleepless nights feeding Lenore.

Setting off to find the kitchen, the floorboards creak welcomingly under Gabriel’s feet. The brindle-haired dog and Lenore’s babbling keeps him company: both seem in happier spirits now, both equally fascinated by Lenore’s attempts to stick out her little pink tongue and blow raspberries at herself.

Gabriel wipes away the accumulating drool on her chin with Arthur’s scarf.

Beyond the living room, a small hallway leads to the dining room. The dining room table itself and two of its seats are currently occupied with dirty laundry - pre-sorted for a dark wash, lighter colours and woollens still dumped together at one side. Arthur must keep on top of the laundry; the dark pile is not too large and its contents seem relatively fresh, muddy towels, a few plaid shirts and some plain, darkly-coloured baby onesies waiting to be loaded into the washing machine in the dark kitchen just a little further on.

To the left is an open doorway leading upstairs. To the right is a mudroom, leading to another doorway outside.

Decisions, decisions.

Gabriel returns to the front room, negotiating with Lenore for a few moments to, firstly, wipe away the sticky tracks of tears from her face with wet wipes he finds on the piano, secondly, remove her from her little panda/fox cardigan, and, thirdly, place her in the baby rocker he’d spotted down by Arthur’s daynest. It isn’t the electronic kind but Lenore is still able to bounce herself if she wishes to, and the baby-proofed arch that hangs over her head is decorated with dangling bells and plush stars to encourage her to reach up and grab at them. Retrieving Kitty, once again, from the floor and handing her it earns Gabriel another point in the youngest Kirkland’s books - and the brindle-haired dog’s, who sits itself patiently and protectively down beside Lenore’s rocker as Gabriel leaves the house to go and retrieve both his and Lenore’s belongings from where he’d left them in Arthur’s car.

(As a group, Arthur’s canine pack make terrible guard dogs, but one of them, at least, might make for a ferocious nanny.)

Lenore is still, stubbornly, not asleep when Gabriel whistles all the dogs inside and returns to her side, but she seems placid enough with one of Kitty’s ears in her mouth again and her guardian dog’s nose resting on one of her little feet. The picture of a darling cherub, still all pink cheeks and glossy curls.

(As dangerous and deceitful a lure as the ones on the table.)

Surprisingly, peace reigns.

*****

*****

*****

*****

Northern Virginia, including Fairfax County, is part of the Washington metropolis area: the third-worst congested traffic area in the USA, in terms of percentage of congested roadways and time spent in traffic. Of the lane miles in the region, 44 percent are rated "F" or worst for congestion. Northern Virginia residents spend an average of 46 hours a year stuck in traffic. (Fictional Special Agent Arthur Kirkland, dragged hither and thither at the behest of the FBI and with probably over a 100 hours stuck in traffic per annum with all his travelling to crime scenes, Baltimore and Quantico, is an outlier and should not have been counted.)

A little about ama. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ama_(diving)]

If I cannot move Heaven, I will raise Hell. - Virgil, Aeneid, Book VII.312

NEXT CHAPTER

[takurohtoyama]

Tokyo Arts and Space Annual Report 2022

トーキョーアーツアンドスペース アニュアル 2022

編集　杉本勝彦、トーキョーアーツアンドスペース(市川亜木子、関 朝子、武智あさぎ)

インタビュー　内田伸一 翻訳　ロバート・リード(プロフィールを除く)、トーキョーアーツアンドスペース

インタビュー撮影　トヤマタクロウ

撮影　大野隆介、加藤 健、佐藤 基、髙橋健治、トヤマタクロウ、中川 周、丸尾隆一、 トーキョーアーツアンドスペース

デザイン　加瀬 透、本田千尋 印刷　株式会社シナノパブリッシングプレス 発行　公益財団法人東京都歴史文化財団東京都現代美術館　トーキョーアーツアンドスペース事業課　東京都江東区三好4-1-1

発行日　2023年6 月16日

非売品・転売禁止

Tokyo Arts and Space Annual Report 2022

Editors　SUGIMOTO Katsuhiko, Tokyo Arts and Space (ICHIKAWA Akiko, SEKI Asako, TAKECHI Asagi)

Interviewer　UCHIDA Shinichi

Translation　Robert REED (except artist profiles), Tokyo Arts and Space

Interview Photos　TOYAMA Takuroh

Photos　KATO Ken, MARUO Ryuichi, OHNO Ryusuke, SATO Motoi, TAKAHASHI Kenji, TOYAMA Takuroh, NAKAGAWA Shu, Tokyo Arts and Space

Design　KASE Toru, HONDA Chihiro

Printing　SHINANO PUBLISHING PRESS CO., LTD

Published by Tokyo Arts and Space, Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation for History and Culture 4-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto-ku, Tokyo Publication Date: June 16, 2023

The sale or resale of this publication is strictly prohibited.

©2023 Tokyo Arts and Space, Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation for History and Culture

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[rayofalltradesyt]

Honda Metropolitan FIXED! Part 2 2007 Honda Metro / Ruckus 50cc low power Fix – Carb Cleaning #honda #atvrepair #scooter Hi Everyone! Welcome to the Ray of all Trades Struggling with a Power issues on your honda mini bike? In this video, I’ll walk you through diagnosing the issue, cleaning the carburetor, and uncovering a surprising find along the way. If your scooter has been sitting for a while or won’t start despite a good battery, this guide will help you troubleshoot and fix common problems. Follow along as I get this quad back up and running! Have questions or your own honda scooter stories? Share them in the comments below. Find all the tools and resources mentioned in the video below! Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more small engine repair tutorials. Links to products on Amazon: Ultrasonic cleaner: https://amzn.to/3THH7Ub funnel water separator: https://amzn.to/3TAhCEg Torch tip cleaner: https://amzn.to/4gBgrOY Air filter: https://amzn.to/4goOQ1S Similar Bead breaker: https://amzn.to/3CyJdjW Tire spoons: https://amzn.to/4aFY1dg Valve stem tool: https://amzn.to/4jyJ2G5 Bead blaster: https://amzn.to/3EdKwFl Tire soap: https://amzn.to/3WHU16c Fuel sending unit: https://amzn.to/4goOQ1S Intake boot: https://amzn.to/3WHU16c Affiliate Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of them, I will receive a commission (at no cost additional to you). I only ever endorse products that I have personally used and benefited from. Thank you for your support! Disclaimer: If you try one of the suggestions made in this video, you do so at your own risk. No information in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee. Any injury, damage, or loss resulting from the improper use of tools, equipment, or information in the video is the sole responsibility of the viewer and not Ray of all Trades. Please follow all proper and recommended safety measures before attempting any project. Ray of all Trades assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred due to any of the information contained in the video. Want to send me swag, merchandise, tools I don’t have, or equipment to review? Send them to: Ray of all Trades 754 Warrenton Rd Suite 113-131 Fredericksburg, VA 22406 *Please note that items will not be returned unless postage is provided I appreciate each one of you!! Thanks for hanging out with me - Ray 🔗 Stay Connected With Me. 🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@RayofallTrades/?sub_confirmation=1 📩 For business inquiries: roatrades@gmail.com ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUwviLbngJU ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSs-bT6y7hI ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXD5pnPchI8 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Kmsz5TS1TU ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01xCTJb6GaY ================================= 🔎 Related Phrases: Arctic Cat 400 ATV No-Start Troubleshooting, How To Clean An ATV Carburetor, Diagnosing Fuel Delivery Problems In ATVs, Arctic Cat 400 Carb Cleaning Guide, Fixing No-Start Issues On Arctic Cat Quads, Troubleshooting Arctic Cat 400 Fuel Problems, Step-By-Step ATV Carburetor Cleaning, ATV No-Start Repair Tutorial, Common Arctic Cat No-Start Issues #honda #ruckus #atvrepair #nostartatv #carburetorcleaning #vespa #smallenginerepair #quadlife #scooter #diyatvrepair #atvtips #atvmaintenance via Ray of all Trades https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO8aYQQNE3e0PMp1qX8RU-w February 08, 2025 at 08:30PM

[visionarycios]

Waymo Set to Launch Autonomous Vehicle Testing in Tokyo by 2025

Source: hindustantimes.com

Waymo Robotaxi, a subsidiary of Alphabet, has announced its plans to begin testing autonomous vehicles in Tokyo in early 2025, marking the company’s first international expansion. While the Robotaxi developer has not yet committed to launching commercial services in the city, this move signals a major step toward expanding its global footprint.

Partnership with Japanese Taxi Operators

Waymo will partner with Nihon Kotsu, Japan’s largest taxi operator, and the taxi app GO to kick off its testing phase. Initially, Waymo’s Jaguar I-PACE vehicles will be manually driven by Nihon Kotsu drivers to map key areas of Tokyo, including districts like Minato, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Chiyoda, Chūō, Shinagawa, and Kōtō. These test drives will provide essential data to train Waymo’s artificial intelligence systems to navigate Tokyo’s roads efficiently.

In parallel with mapping the streets of Tokyo, Waymo will also conduct tests on a specialized closed course in the United States. This course will replicate Japanese driving conditions, helping the company prepare its self-driving technology for real-world scenarios in a left-hand traffic market like Japan.

Waymo Robotaxi said that this initial phase of testing and data gathering, which will last several quarters, is a crucial step toward understanding Tokyo’s transportation landscape. The company also stated that it plans to remain in Japan for an extended period to evaluate how its autonomous services can benefit local communities.

Nihon Kotsu will play a critical role in overseeing the management and servicing of Waymo’s vehicles throughout the testing phase.

Strategic Expansion in the U.S. and Beyond

This announcement follows a series of expansions by Waymo across the United States throughout 2024. Earlier this month, the company revealed plans to begin testing its self-driving vehicles in Miami in 2025. In November, Waymo’s driverless ride-hailing service became fully operational across Los Angeles, and in September, the company announced its planned expansions into Austin and Atlanta through a partnership with Uber.

Waymo’s move into Tokyo is particularly significant as it marks the company’s entry into a left-hand traffic market for the first time.

Japan’s Focus on Driverless Technology

Japan has emerged as a key market for autonomous vehicle technology, driven by the need to address challenges like an aging population and labor shortages. Both the Japanese national government and the Tokyo Metropolitan government have been actively promoting driverless transportation as a solution. Tokyo has designated specific test zones to accelerate the development of safe self-driving systems in the city.

Several domestic companies are also working on autonomous vehicle projects in Japan. Local startup Tier IV and robotics company ZMP are testing delivery vehicles and buses in Tokyo, while Monet Technologies, partly owned by Toyota, announced plans earlier this year to test a self-driving taxi service in Tokyo’s Odaiba district.

Competition and Market Landscape

Waymo Robotaxi’s expansion into Japan comes at a pivotal time in the autonomous vehicle industry. Just a week prior to the announcement, General Motors revealed it would shut down its Cruise Robotaxi division. Cruise, which had been a major domestic competitor to Waymo, faced significant setbacks leading to its closure.

Honda, an investor in Cruise, had initially planned to launch a driverless ride-hailing service in Japan by early 2026. However, following GM’s retreat, Honda stated that it would reassess its plans and make necessary adjustments.

Future Prospects for Waymo in Japan

With strong government backing and a growing focus on driverless technology in Japan, Waymo’s entry into Tokyo’s market positions it well for future opportunities. The partnerships with Nihon Kotsu and GO, combined with data gathered through extensive testing, will help Waymo fine-tune its autonomous systems to navigate the complexities of Tokyo’s urban environment.

As Waymo Robotaxi begins its operations in Tokyo, the company will explore how autonomous vehicles can integrate into the city’s existing transportation ecosystem. This move not only highlights Waymo’s ambition for international expansion but also underlines Tokyo’s role as a testing ground for cutting-edge mobility solutions.

[bikegearindia]

Find Honda OEM Parts for Top-Quality Motorcycle Repairs and Upgrades

Find Honda OEM Parts for Top-Quality Motorcycle Repairs and Enhancements in India On the off chance that you're a Honda motorcycle owner in India, you know it is critical to keep your motorcycle moving along as expected. Whether you're cruising through the clamoring roads of Delhi or requiring an end-of-the-week ride along the beautiful thruways of Goa, your Honda motorcycle needs to perform at its ideal.

Why Go for Honda OEM Parts in India? Honda motorcycles are known for their strong performance, eco-friendliness, and strength — characteristics that make them a top decision for riders all over India. In any case, to keep your motorcycle in top shape, utilizing certified Honda parts is vital. Here's the reason adhering to Honda OEM parts is a shrewd move for motorcycle fixes in India:

Perfect Fit Every Time Whether you need a new air filter, spark plug, or brake pad, Honda parts will fit your bike perfectly. This means you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues or poor performance—your bike will be as good as new. And when you’re riding in India, where roads can vary from smooth highways to rough village lanes, you need parts that are up to the task.

Performance You Can Count On You’ve chosen a Honda for a reason—its excellent performance. By using Honda OEM parts, you ensure that your motorcycle continues to ride smoothly, accelerates quickly, and handles like it did when you first got it. In cities like Mumbai or Chennai, where traffic is unpredictable, having a bike that can respond instantly is crucial. OEM parts help maintain that high level of performance.

Long-Term Durability Honda motorcycles are totally solid, however, provided that they're appropriately kept up with. Utilizing OEM parts rather than less expensive options guarantees that your motorcycle stays with everything looking good for a long time. This is especially significant in India, where weather patterns can differ generally — from the outrageous intensity of Rajasthan to the weighty storms in Kerala.

Safety First Prosperity should constantly be a first concern. Expecting that you're riding in busy time gridlock in profound metropolitan regions like Delhi or Bengaluru, your brakes, suspension, and electrical systems ought to be in top condition. Honda OEM parts are planned in light of security, so you can ride with certainty realizing that your motorcycle won't let you down when you want it most.

Common Honda Motorcycle Parts to Replace in India Each motorcycle proprietor realizes that normal upkeep is an unquestionable requirement. Over the long haul, certain pieces of your Honda motorcycle will normally break down or need supplanting. Here are a few normal parts that might require consideration:

Engine Parts The motor is the core of your motorcycle. Things like flash attachments, oil channels, and gaskets might require supplanting from time to time. Utilizing Honda OEM motor parts guarantees that the motor moves along as planned keeps up with power, and stays eco-friendly — particularly significant when fuel costs are continuously fluctuating across India.

Brakes and Suspension In India, streets are frequently erratic, including potholes to rock tracks. Thus, your brakes and suspension must be capable. Certifiable Honda brake cushions, circles, and suspension parts will ensure your motorcycle handles unpleasant territory and abrupt stops effortlessly.

Electrical Parts With the intensity, residue, and dampness normal in many pieces of India, your motorcycle's electrical systems can endure a shot. If your lights, battery, or wiring aren't working as expected, it's fundamental to supplant them with Honda OEM parts. This will guarantee that your motorcycle stays solid, in any event, during long rides or around evening time.

Air and Fuel Channels Contamination in Indian urban areas can be extraordinary, so keeping your air and fuel channels clean and supplanted consistently is fundamental. Honda OEM channels are intended to keep your motorcycle running spotless and productive, so you don't need to stress over motor issues not too far off.

Where to Find Honda OEM Parts in India Looking for genuine Honda parts in India? You’ve got options. Honda-authorized dealerships across the country offer a wide range of OEM parts, from basic engine components to advanced electrical systems. You can visit a local Honda service center, where professionals will help you find the right parts for your bike.

What's more, online commercial centers are likewise an extraordinary choice, yet you'll need to ensure you're purchasing from a confided-in merchant. Search for all-around explored web-based stores that spend significant time in motorcycle parts, and in every case two-fold check that the parts are certified.

A Quick Word on Counterfeit Parts Unfortunately, counterfeit motorcycle parts are common in India. These cheaper knockoffs might seem tempting because of their low price, but they can cause serious damage to your Honda motorcycle over time. Counterfeit parts can compromise your bike’s performance, safety, and longevity. Stick to genuine Honda parts to avoid these risks.

Conclusion Dealing with your Honda motorcycle in India is tied in with utilizing the right parts. Honda OEM parts guarantee that your motorcycle stays in top condition, whether you're driving in the city or continuing long rides the nation over. From motor parts to electrical systems, picking certified parts is the most ideal way to keep your motorcycle running like it ought to.

In this way, whether you're in the core of Mumbai or the calmer streets of Himachal Pradesh, ensure you're getting your Honda OEM parts from confided-in sources. It's an interest in the performance, security, and lifespan of your motorcycle — something no rider can bear to disregard.

[car-hamro]

Hyundai Xcent: A Comprehensive Overview of a Versatile Compact Sedan

Introduction

The Hyundai Xcent, a popular compact sedan in the Indian automotive market, has garnered a significant following due to its blend of style, comfort, and practicality. Introduced as a sub-4-meter sedan, the Xcent was created to meet the demands of metropolitan drivers seeking a vehicle with excellent fuel efficiency, a spacious cabin, and modern features, all wrapped in a stylish package. This piece will examine in detail the Hyundai Xcent, exploring its design, performance, features, safety, and explanations for why it is still the best option among compact sedans.

The Hyundai Xcent was launched in 2014 as a sedan variant of the popular Hyundai Grand i10 hatchback. It quickly became a strong contender in the compact sedan segment, competing with models like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Honda Amaze, and Tata Zest. Hyundai’s reputation for building reliable and feature-rich vehicles was crucial to the Xcent’s success.

Design and Exterior Features

One of the key selling points of the Hyundai Xcent is its well-thought-out design. The front fascia is adorned with Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille, flanked by stylish swept-back headlamps. The chrome accents on the grille and the LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) add a touch of sophistication to the overall look.

The alloy wheels, body-colored ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) with integrated turn indicators, and a sculpted rear with wrap-around tail lamps contribute to the car’s modern and dynamic appearance.

Interior Comfort and Features

Step inside the Hyundai Xcent, and you���ll be greeted by a well-appointed cabin that exudes comfort and quality. The interior layout is designed with ergonomics, ensuring that all controls are easily accessible to the driver. The dual-tone color scheme and premium materials create an inviting and pleasant environment.

The well-cushioned seats provide good support, making long drives more enjoyable. The rear seat has a center armrest and cup holders, adding convenience to passengers.

The Hyundai Xcent is packed with modern amenities and features. One of the infotainment system’s touchscreen displays has Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice recognition. The system makes driving more enjoyable overall and is easy to use. Additionally, the car comes equipped with automatic climate control, steering-mounted audio controls, rear AC vents, and power windows, further enhancing the comfort and convenience of occupants.

Performance and Engine Options

The Hyundai Xcent has petrol and diesel engine options, catering to different driving preferences. The 1.2-liter gasoline version has a Kappa Dual VTVT engine, which delivers 83 PS and 114 Nm of torque. This engine is known for its smooth and refined performance, making it ideal for city driving.

The Hyundai Xcent’s suspension is tuned for comfort, quickly absorbing road imperfections. The car’s compact dimensions and responsive steering make navigating through congested city streets easy, while the engine’s power delivery ensures a smooth and hassle-free driving experience.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel economy is among the essential elements buyers consider when choosing a compact sedan, and the Hyundai Xcent does not disappoint. The gasoline version has a fantastic range of approximately 19.1 km/l, while the diesel variant boasts a fuel efficiency of approximately 25.4 km/l. These figures make the Xcent an economical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel, further solidifying its position as a practical and budget-friendly vehicle.

Safety Features

Hyundai prioritizes safety, and the Xcent is fitted with several safety measures to guarantee the well-being of its occupants. The car has dual front airbags as standard across all variants, providing essential protection during a collision. Higher variants offer features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera, enhancing the vehicle’s overall safety.

The Xcent’s body structure is designed with high-strength steel, which improves crashworthiness and passenger protection. The car also features impact-sensing auto door unlock, a rear defogger, central locking, and child safety locks, making it a secure and family-friendly vehicle.

For More Details, Click Here

[bsauto]

Activa Accessories for Safety and Comfort

A Honda Activa scooter is a lifestyle choice that offers convenience, fuel efficiency, and dependable performance, going beyond simple transportation. Millions of riders, including those who ride for fun and everyday commuting, have chosen this scooter because of its easy handling and adaptable design, particularly in the case of the well-liked Activa Black model. The Activa provides passengers with unmatched convenience as it navigates through congested metropolitan streets with ease thanks to its small design. Its outstanding fuel efficiency is another feature that sets it apart from the competition and makes long-distance driving without many stops at gas stations an affordable option for daily travel.

1. Crash Guard Black

A crash guard, one of the most important Activa accessories, offers vital protection in the event of falls, mishaps, or small collisions. This is particularly crucial if you wish to prevent expensive damages or serious harm from an accident involving an Activa. The Black crash guard for the Honda Activa preserves the scooter's elegant appearance while providing strong protection.

Benefits:

Impact Protection: Minimizes repair costs by protecting the scooter’s body from dents and scratches, especially in the event of an accident.

Balance: Improves stability while riding on uneven surfaces or taking sharp turns.

Durability: Crafted from rust-resistant material, the black crash guard is built to last​.

2. Baby Seat for Scooters

For riders who frequently travel with children, a baby seat is one of the most vital Activa accessories for safety. This seat ensures your child is securely seated during rides, reducing the risk of accidents or falls.

Benefits:

Child Safety: Prevents accidental slips or falls, especially during sudden stops or maneuvers.

Comfort: Padded seating offers a smooth ride for children, even on bumpy roads.

Peace of Mind: Allows parents to ride confidently, knowing their child is safe and secure.

Conclusion

The appropriate scooter accessories can significantly improve your comfort and safety when riding. The best accessories to enhance your riding experience are the Crash Guard, Baby Seat, Univercel Backrest, Premium Seat Cover, and Grip Covers. These add-ons not only shield you and your scooter from mishaps like an Activa collision, but they also guarantee a more pleasurable and pleasant ride—whether you're traveling farther or just taking short journeys. 

Learn more about activa accessories:

https://bsautoaccessories.com/top-activa-accessories/

[gujarattaxi]

Welcome to Gujarat Taxi, the fastest growing online car rental booking and taxi hiring Service Company in India, committed to provide door-to-door best car rental services to the travelers. We provide local travel, out station car rental, long term car rental, corporate cab booking and various other tour packages in more than 100 metropolitan and small cities of India. Our aim is to provide the world class car rental service to the travelers at an affordable price along with utmost efficiency and comfort. Gujarat Taxi provides premium class railway transfers and airport transfers for pick up and drop facilities. We have various types of cab such as the Crysta, Swift Dzire, Toyota, Honda, Tavera ECS etc. We endeavor to constantly improve your car rental experience with our company. Wherever you are traveling in India you're searching for a car rental stop at Gujarat Taxi.

[motorgroup]

Why South Morang is the Go-To Spot for Car Dealerships

South Morang, a vibrant suburb located in Melbourne’s northern region, has become a hub for car enthusiasts and prospective buyers alike. The area is home to a wide range of car dealerships, offering everything from brand-new vehicles to high-quality used cars. But what makes South Morang stand out as the go-to spot for car dealerships? Let’s delve into the factors that contribute to its growing reputation in the automotive market.

Strategic Location and Accessibility

One of the key reasons South Morang has become a prime location for car dealerships is its strategic positioning within Melbourne’s northern suburbs. The suburb is easily accessible via major roads such as Plenty Road and the Metropolitan Ring Road, making it a convenient destination for buyers from across Melbourne. Whether you’re coming from the city or the outer suburbs, South Morang’s central location ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey.

In addition to its road accessibility, South Morang is well-served by public transport, including the South Morang train station and several bus routes. This connectivity makes it easier for customers to reach the dealerships without relying solely on cars, broadening the potential customer base.

Diverse Range of Dealerships

South Morang boasts a diverse array of car dealerships, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Whether you’re in the market for a brand-new luxury vehicle or a reliable, budget-friendly used car, you’ll find plenty of options in South Morang.

The suburb is home to several well-established dealerships representing leading automotive brands such as Toyota, Ford, Mazda, Nissan, and Honda. These dealerships offer the latest models, complete with cutting-edge technology and advanced safety features. For buyers looking for something more premium, South Morang also hosts dealerships specializing in luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi.

For those interested in used cars, South Morang offers a wealth of options. Many dealerships in the area have a strong focus on certified pre-owned vehicles, ensuring that buyers receive high-quality cars that have been thoroughly inspected and come with warranties. This focus on quality and reliability has earned South Morang’s dealerships a reputation for trustworthiness, making it a popular choice for used car buyers.

Competitive Pricing and Attractive Deals

Another factor that draws customers to  Car Dealerships in South Morangs is the competitive pricing and attractive deals on offer. The concentration of dealerships in the area has led to healthy competition, resulting in better prices and incentives for buyers. Whether it’s seasonal discounts, trade-in offers, or financing options, South Morang dealerships are known for providing excellent value.

This competitive environment also means that dealerships are more likely to go the extra mile in terms of customer service. From personalized buying experiences to after-sales support, customers can expect a high level of care and attention when purchasing a vehicle in South Morang.

Comprehensive Services Under One Roof

South Morang’s car dealerships offer more than just a wide selection of vehicles; they provide a comprehensive range of services that cater to all aspects of car ownership. Many dealerships in the area have integrated service centers, offering everything from routine maintenance and repairs to specialized services like detailing and customization.

This one-stop-shop approach is highly convenient for car owners, allowing them to handle all their automotive needs in one place. Whether you need a quick oil change, a major repair, or are interested in upgrading your vehicle’s features, South Morang’s dealerships have you covered.

Furthermore, many dealerships in South Morang offer finance and insurance services, making the car-buying process smoother and more straightforward. Customers can explore various financing options, get pre-approved for loans, and even purchase insurance, all within the dealership’s premises.

Strong Community Presence and Reputation

South Morang’s car dealerships have built a strong presence within the local community, further cementing the suburb’s reputation as a top automotive destination. Many dealerships actively engage with the community through sponsorships, local events, and partnerships with nearby businesses. This involvement helps to foster a sense of trust and loyalty among customers, who are more likely to return for future purchases or recommend the dealerships to friends and family.

The positive word-of-mouth and strong online reviews that South Morang’s dealerships consistently receive are a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction. This reputation has spread beyond the local community, attracting buyers from other parts of Melbourne and even regional areas.

Future Growth and Development

Looking ahead, South Morang is poised for continued growth and development, which will likely enhance its appeal as a car dealership hotspot. The ongoing infrastructure projects in the area, including road upgrades and the extension of public transport services, will further improve accessibility and convenience for customers.

Additionally, the increasing population in Melbourne’s northern suburbs is expected to drive demand for cars, which in turn will lead to more dealerships and services being established in South Morang. This growth will not only benefit buyers but also contribute to the overall economic development of the area.

Conclusion

South Morang has firmly established itself as the go-to spot for car dealerships in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. Its strategic location, diverse range of dealerships, competitive pricing, comprehensive services, and strong community presence all contribute to its growing reputation in the automotive market. Whether you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle, South Morang offers an unbeatable car-buying experience, making it the ideal destination for your next vehicle purchase

[twittercomfrnklin2001-blog]

Gojira

If you only know GODZILLA from the mangled version shown in the U.S. or its increasingly juvenile sequels, then, if I may be brutally frank (I’m Frank, goddamn it!), you don’t know GODZILLA. Ishiro Honda’s GOJIRA (1954, TCM, Max, Plex, Tubi, YouTube) may have started out as just a monster movie, a blatant rip-off of THE BEAST FROM 20,000 FATHOMS (1953),but in Honda’s hands it rose to metaphoric levels as a commentary on a world at the mercy of unfettered nuclear testing. The film also bears numerous echoes of the U.S.’ firebombing of Tokyo and the dropping of the A bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The story is familiar and mostly follows what would become the tried-and-true giant monster formula. Attacks in isolated areas (here the fishing lanes near the fictional Odo Island) lead to the discovery of a giant critter that moves on to a major metropolitan area (Tokyo) until someone can figure out a way to get rid of it. But Honda, who co-wrote the screenplay starts it all with the sinking of a fishing boat that mirrors the then-recent plight of a boat that had sailed too near the U.S. nuclear testing grounds in the Marshall Islands. When word of the monster’s appearance spreads, there’s a brief shot of three people on a train lamenting that they may have to evacuate again. The woman in the group even mentions that she had barely avoided being caught in the bombing of Nagasaki. Later, she and one of the men are on the party boat that first sights Godzilla in Tokyo Bay. Her face is one of the film’s most telling expressions of horror. There are frequent references to radiation and its perils, and the newly developed weapon that could save them all has the potential to destroy humanity, much like the atomic bomb that helped end World War II.

There are flaws of course, Some of the mattes of Godzilla’s attacks are clumsy. At one point you can see the wires moving his tail around. And I could do with less of the romantic triangle that figures into the denouement (though the rejected suitor played by Akihiko Hirata is quite good). But without the Raymond Burr narration added to the American version, you can tell what a good storyteller Honda is. The action moves along quickly until almost the end, with information conveyed through newspaper headlines and radio and TV broadcasts. Honda is also a master of montage who clearly learned his lessons from Sergei Eisenstein. Godzilla’s attacks are conveyed through their effects on repeated characters like the broadcast journalists reporting from a TV tower that eventually becomes one of the monster’s targets. There are also shots of a woman huddled near a building with her children. As Godzilla approaches, she tells them, “We’re going to join Daddy! We’ll be where Daddy is soon!” It’s a devastating image of wartime destruction you won’t find in your run-of-the-mill monster movie.

[jimtrenarychevrolet]

Let’s look at the 2024 Honda Metropolitan today! This unit has a Programmed Fuel Injection 49cc Liquid Cooled engine. Everything you would expect from Honda! The Metro also comes with a V-Matic Automatic transmission, 22 Liters under seat storage and a combined braking system! Come to Jim Trenary Motorsports today to check out this EURO Style Scooter!