Acer Aspire One

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A friend of mine bought this netbook and asked me to add Linux to it. I installed Kubuntu "Lucid Lynx" 10.4.2 in dual boot mode. Lucid slid on like a silk glove. Everything worked "out of the box". Installed Skype and it worked well, too. The internal mic and webcam gave excellent results. It streamed a Tom Hanks movie from YouTube seamlessly in full screen mode.





I purchased the similar Acer Aspire AO521-3782 from Amazon as an Xmas gift for my wife. It, too, is running well and she loves it. She especially loves the portability of it, and its long battery life. She'll take it off the shelf, do her browsing and email, and the occasion photo session with DigiKam, plus watching videos. She can do that 3 or 4 times before the battery gets low and she has to plug it in. With the HDMI cable (Belkin F3U133-10 Hi-Speed HDNMI) I purchased from Amazon she can plug her Acer into our VISO HDTV and stream the movie to the "big screen"! I also bought her the car charger so she can take it with her and be able to recharge it while using it in the car. The last piece of equipment I bought for her Acer was the Samsung USB 2.0 8x DVD Writer External Optical Drive for Mac and PC SE-S084D/TSBS burner. It requires two USB ports to power it but it works VERY WELL with both Win7 and Linux.



This Acer, and my wife's, came with only 1GB of RAM, so one additional purchase really makes the Acer One's fast: replacing the 1GB stick with a 2GB stick: 2GB PC3-10600 (1333Mhz) 204 pin DDR3 SODIMM (CNF)

for $28 plus shipping. The speed increase when browsing, or running more than one app at a time (browser + email), I estimate to be nearly double. OF course, FireFox is always faster when you set up one pipeline for each tab you plan to open. I set up 8 pipelines. (URL is about:config - then search for "pipeline")



There is a known problem with the male power plug pin breaking off, so take ordinary care when inserting the power cord that you plug it straight into the power socket. Do not push it in at an angle and let the "hole guide it in". You'll catch the top of the pin with the plug and bend it. Acer Aspire One AOD255E-13639 10.1-Inch Netbook (Diamond Black)

its a great little netbook, I use it for doing homework and programming, other than that its not great for much else, the screen is too small to watch anything the speaker quality is okay but not anything special.

If youre looking for a small portable netbook to do some light work (word processing, web viewing, programming, etc) then this is perfect. Just don't expect to do any heavy computing

I recently got this little laptop as a gift after my main computer crashed and died. In short, I completely love the little thing! I rarely ever used CDs, so a netbook seemed to be the right choice for me.

The Windows 7 Starter program has a few niches that I don't enjoy, but are thigns I can completely live with (and could obviously change programs if I so desperately needed). The memory for this little baby is impressive. Its so small, I can fit it in one of my bigger purses and just go. The battery life is amazing as well, I can get it to be on for about four hours at a time sometimes.

The webcam and mic quality are perfect for talking to friends and family far away. Very happy with this product.

The only extreme downer is it's a little laggy with videos from Netflix. Youtube seems to work fine, but netflix and this laptop seem to not mix well.

This is taken directly from their support site "While the Aspire One AOD255 series supports a total of 2GB of DDR3 RAM, due to the design of the netbook the RAM on the Aspire One AOD255 series is not replaceable and Acer does not support upgrading or replacing the RAM."



This should be noted in the description, not that it stopped me since I was able to determine how easy it really is to replace the RAM. Not that I am going to do so, since it would void my warranty. ;)



For those who wish to void their warranty and install 2GB's of RAM, it should take you about 10mins tops to swap it out. ;)

I really liked this notebook at first. it was very uncomplicated, and I loved that it easily connected to my home wireless network, and I was sailing away fairly quickly.

I really dislike the office 10 starter, but I was planning to install my office 2003 when my external cd drive arrives.

After a couple week's use, I had put it in sleep mode, to return to my project later, but when I tried to "wake it up", nothing happened. After using the power button, I had to use the power button to shut it down manually, and then powered it back up, but nothing came on the monitor. I manually turned it off and on a few times, waiting until it had cooled enough, but though I could hear the motor going when I turned it on, the display was blank; I also didn't hear any of the usual sounds you might hear when booting up. So, I can't be sure what all went wrong, but I wasn't even able to retrieve any of the data I had put on it, nor could I uninstall anything or otherwise remove account information.

Fortunately I had bought it at costco, so I just returned it.

When you see this netbook at Amazon you also see "what other purchased". Well lots of people order the Crucial memory upgrade CT25664BC1067. However that memory is not for this computer. I know. I purchased it and it does not work. Using Crucial's web site the memory upgrade for this computer is listed below.



CORRECT MEMORY PART NUMBER: CT2035536



Module Size: 2GB

Package: 204-pin SODIMM

Feature: DDR3 PC3-8500

Specs: DDR3 PC3-8500 * CL=7 * Unbuffered * NON-ECC * DDR3-1066 * 1.5V * 256Meg x 64 *





INCORRECT MEMORY PART NUMBER:CT25664BC1067

In short, just not enough POWER! I know, I know, it's only a netbook and NOT meant to be some high level gaming platform. But, I need to do some HD video editing and playing in the field and also have the smallest device possible without getting into alot of money. So, I returned this netbook and purchased one with a N550 cpu and ion graphics for 100 dollars more and it does the trick!



However, if your looking for something to use Word/Spreadsheet, or just email and surf the web, then you can not beat this Netbook for the price (as far as I Know). Very sturdy and the outside looks very well designed. I gave it 4/5 stars to be fair because, again, for the price, it's still a good mobile netbook for basic applications and surfing.'

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Indoor Tv Antenna - antenna, rabbit ears

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This budget-priced indoor antenna unit does the job. I received all the local HD channels available in my area with minimal adjustments to the antenna positioning.



The coaxial cable is part of the unit and cannot be removed. The cable itself is rather skinny. That being said, the unit performs, flawlessly.



I have the unit placed behind my 42" plasma with the antenna extended and hidden from view. The location of my flatscreen is top-floor of a house and about five feet from the window. I also used this unit in my bedroom and it worked, flawlessly.



I think the location of your home (relative to the broadcast towers) and positioning of the unit is what matters. Not the brand or price of the indoor antenna unit. RCA ANT121 Indoor Antenna

I just replaced a significantly more expensive Terk HDTVi indoor antenna with this simple and inexpensive RCA antenna. The Terk looked great, but had such a poorly designed base that it was nearly impossible to balance and position-I'll be sending that one back to Amazaon. I went over to my local Best Buy and found this unit, hooked it up-wala; picked up significantly MORE HD stations and this unit is stable and easy to position and move around (which is the objective in maneuvering for best reception). I'd highly recommend this unit-as far as I am concerned it does what it's supposed to do, easily outperforms (at least in my case) more expensive indoor antennas, and is just a great darn value!

Just as good as any other antenna I've tried. Its not worth it to buy the more expensive ones, they all work the same. The SIGNAL STRENGTH NEVER CHANGES, that is controlled by the tower location and your location. All you can do is get a bigger antenna!!.

So I got two of these, pointed them different directions, now I get all the channels I should without having to adjust (very much) the dipoles.

I finally made the leap to an hdtv, so I decided to see what was available over the air -- mostly out of curiosity, as I have cable with an hd package (although I hear OTA HD signals are better as they are not compressed). So last night I picked this up for $15 or so at a store two blocks from my home (paid a bit extra for the convenience, plus I like to support local merchants when reasonably possible). I live in a highrise in San Francisco, and the window behind my TV more or less faces in the direction of the Sutro Tower broadcast array, so I aimed the dipoles in that direction, and swiveled the UHF loop towards it as well. I did pick up several stations, but notably missing were two network affiliates (CBS and FOX - Channels 5 and 2 here), and KRON Channel 4 -- a local news station (it was the NBC affiliate until a few years ago) which has its station one block from my home! Also, no PBS affiliates came in at all (we have several in the SF Bay Area). I fiddled and fiddled with the dipoles and loop, faced everything in different directions, re-scanned several times, etc... I came up with several more obscure channels, but still these major stations were missing. Also, some channels displayed significant pixelation and freezing. I really don't know if it is the fault of the antenna, or just the luck of the draw as far as signal strength in my area, so I won't ding the RCA on effectiveness. However, on about the fifth repositioning, one of the dipoles snapped clean off at the base! I am fairly adept with technology and I fully understand how the antenna dipoles swivel -- this just plain snapped without me using any force or doing anything wrong. I still pick up stations with one pole -- my understanding is that most hdtv stations are in the UHF range anyhow (but I also read that this may be changing soon). I am not sure if the store will take this back -- will try tonight -- but I am sorely disappointed with the quality of this antenna.

With minimal adjustment, I was able to get solid signal on all my local HD channels. This antenna works as well or better than numerous other indoor and outdoor antennas I've tried, including antennas that are much larger and more expensive that this one. It might not be great if you're on a fringe area with faint signals, but for cities and suburbs it should be fine.

Rabbit ears are the tried and true design that became popular for indoor TV reception 65 years ago, and this basic design still works well in the digital age. The RCA ANT121 is a slightly upgraded model from the no frills, but excellent RCA ANT110, and includes a knob to restrict/increase the signal. This is a non-amplified antenna which works fine connected to a digital TV in a suburban setting.

This is a good antenna for urban areas and those not too far from the broadcast towers. For those that live in more rural areas farther away from the towers, this will not work very good at all for you. I live about 40 miles from all channels broadcast towers. I can pick up maybe 1 or 2 prime channels. When I moved to the Philadelphia suburbs, it works fine. - Rabbit Ears - Antenna - Hd Antenna - Tv Antenna'

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Nintendo Ds - adapters, nintendo

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This AC Adapter for the Nintendo DS Lite is identical to the one that comes included with the game system.



One nice feature is that the prongs of the plug swivel in and out. This means that, when folded in, the unit is fairly thin and easy to store. It seems well made and sturdy, even with the moving part. Nintendo DS Lite AC Adapter

I am happy that I do not have to search high and low for a replacement charger. My dog often eats the cord on my chargers. This is the nintendo brand one which is nice. It is only good for the lite. That is kind of sad. At least though there is no pieces to loose. It folds up flat for easy storage. I never worry about the prongs getting damaged.

The success of the Nintendo DS Lite brought out so many new gamers to a whole new generation of handheld gamers. Yet, for those who purchased the original DS, any of those have a set AC adapter to call their own. However, for the newer editions, you'd have to tackle a different way to plug in and charge up your Nintendo DS system. Well, this DS Lite AC Adapter from Nintendo is very convient and easy to install. Although there is one disadvantage with this AC Adapter. With this one, you unfortunately can't use this with the original Nintendo DS. Still, if you had to choose a adapter to charge up your Nintendo DS, I really recommend one from Nintendo over another company.



Price: A



Convience: A



Overall: A

The description says, "World traveler (100-240V). The innovative travel charger automatically adjusts to all voltages and frequencies in the U.S., Europe, and Asia," but in fact this power adapter only works with US voltage (110V). If you do plug into 240V you'll let the magic smoke out. - Adapters - Nintendo Ds Lite - Ds Charger - Nintendo'

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Universal Power Adapter

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This is all you need for any one device to the extent that it is rated for universal voltage of 100-240V AC.



Most existing laptops and other electronics are this way these days but some older devices may come with a 110/240V switch so make sure that you check before you plug your device into the foreign outlet, especially if you do it into the outlet of 'higher' voltage.



On this adapter's features:



- Works as a plug converter on both sides, meaning that you can plug in either a US, Euro or South American device on one end and the outlet you plug it into can be either of the above.

- Supports both 2-prong and 3-prong US plugs.

- It is NOT a voltage converter. If your device is not rated for 240V chances are it WILL be destroyed so be careful.

- Amazingly, for the price, it even offers some surge protection. Universal World Wide Travel Charger Adapter Plug, White

I purchased this converter to use with my laptop and cell phone / video camera charging. The converter itself is easy to use. It worked very well in Hong Kong because they use British style plugs. China uses the Australian type plugs. When using these plugs there is no third plug. Some circuits at upscale hotels will only work if 3 prongs are used, not just 2. When two prongs are used either in the Australian plug or the European plug, the connection is very flimsy and falls out of the socket easily. I did not have to use this much in China as the hotel I was staying at (a Mariott hotel) had several options on the wall plate that allowed me to use American plugs.



Regaring power transformers: Most of Asia uses 220 - 240 Volt circuits. If all you are using are laptops and cell phone / camera charging cords, most of those will tolerate up to 240 volts. Just check the sqaure/rectangular box attached to the cord to see how much voltage it will take. If you are using hair dryer / curling iron / electric razor / etc., you will need a power transformer as these appliances typically will not take voltage over 110 (used in America for most things).

I have had many an adapter. This is my first all-in-one. It performed flawlessly in the UK and Portugal, and should work everywhere. The great thing about it is that it also has reverse compatibility so that for example, a house guest from Europe could use this in your house in the US. Brilliant device!

I've noticed that most if not all of the other reviewers were commenting on their use in Europe. I thought I should add a review, commenting on my experience with this product, which I am using in Japan. Perhaps for European countries, 5 stars is appropriate-I can't comment on that part since I've never tried it there. But I will comment on the usage of it in Japan.



The basic problem I have which keeps it from five stars is that it will plug into a socket, but only barely. It kind of hangs loose from the socket which can make it difficult for the device to work properly. Once you get it to the right position, though, it will stay there. Essentially, at that point, you only need to not bump it in order for it to stay properly. For me, 9 times out of 10 of the device plugging in properly and working without additional effort is enough for me, but always having it loose is kind of worrisome for some people, I am sure. Finally, because the plug is apparently the same as in other countries, this review would in essence apply to usage in the US, Australia and Thailand.



Of course, if you are to use it elsewhere, this plug will likely do the trick. Therefore, and especially because of its price, I can still recommend this travel plug adapter. Since this is pretty much my only option for changing a 3 prong plug to a 2 prong plug (they don't have it in most of Japan), I am very grateful to have bought it.

I purchased the adapter to use on a trip to the UK with my cell phone, laptop, and camera battery chargers and a travel hair straightener - all dual voltage and so not requiring voltage converters, but only plug adapters. This plug adapter would not provide power to any of the four items, however. I had brought 3 other plug adapters with me, and tested each item with other adapters and they all worked, so I know it was a problem with this adapter. I am unsure whether the adapter is completely defective, or only the UK plug of the adapter. It would have been a major problem had I been relying on this adapter without bringing other ones. I was very surprised since the item had 7 positive reviews, so perhaps this was only an isolated incident; still, I would encourage you not to rely only on this adapter and to bring a back-up if you are going to buy it.

Bought this for a trip to Italy and France. I used this in various hotels and on our cruise ship along the Italian coast. Worked every time. As other reviewers noted, you do have to use the "unlock" switch on the top to release the prongs you need. Then, "lock" it to keep that prong extended. Note that when you slide the switch to unlock, you may have more than one type of prong pop out. Just push back the ones you don't need and lock it with the prong you do need. Our only small gripe is that the prong we needed for Italy and France (the two round prongs (2nd from the top in the picture) didn't pop out automatically. We had to unlock the device then pry up those prongs. But, once extended, they locked into place and fit every time.'

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Home Appliances - instapure, faucet water filters

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i had problems with leaks like some other reviewers stated. but then i contacted instapure and got the manual to re-do the installation. after reading the manual and adding 2+2 i figured out that the large black washer goes between the faucet and the double-threaded adapter. the red one is to be used between that adapter and the filter holder. once i had reassembled it all, no more leaks were noticeable at all and the water quality is just perfect.

Over the years we've tried several Britta and Pur units, and have spent many $$ for their replacement cartridges. We're now on our second Instapure 2, which is exactly the same as the Teledyne-branded one we used to have, and uses exactly the same filter elements. The lowest cost Instapure filter elements -- R2 -- in 4-packs are about the least expensive water filter elements there are from anyone. There are also Instapure R5 and R7 models for more money, but we're just using the filter to make city tap water tastier, not to remove contaminants.



Our coffee, tea, bourbon & water and even ice cubes now taste better than they did in pre-filter days, and the Instapure units are easy to install, seem to last a year or more, and are cheap to replace if they start leaking.



The "lasts a year or more" is the only reason for 4 stars instead of five. But then, I might be wrong. This is only my second one after we had its predecessor for a year, and I probably could have stopped the old one from leaking if I'd replaced the filter and tightened it correctly. No big deal either way.



The Culligan filters also look decent, but we haven't tried them.



One tip: you know your Instapure filter needs changing when it starts to run slow. No blinking lights needed.



Another tip: my wife likes to keep a cold pitcher of water in the refrigerator and used to use a Britta pitcher. Now she just keeps her cold-water jug filled with filtered water from the sink -- and she also refills 20 oz. travel-size water bottles from the filter-equipped tap so we have tasty water when we're outdoors in the hot Flora Duh sun.



Last tip: I have a Cuisinart Grind & Brew coffee machine with a built-in filter that costs a bunch to replace. So I haven't replaced it in 2 years. Once again, filtered tap water does the job and saves $$$.

The best thing about the design is that it is easy to see when the filter needs to be changed. The switch that allows you to change between filtered and unfiltered water is large and comfortable to use. And its overall streamlined design with the rest of the unit means that you are not constantly bumping into or hooking your sleeve on the knob when not in use. None of our general and hardware stores that used to sell this seem to have the replacement filters in stock anymore. Thank goodness they are available on-line!

I read all the reviews about water filters, and went to Lowe's looking for the Culligan one. But, nothing from that brand was there, and they had this Instapure filter, in addition to the PUR and the Brita. But I read a lot of bad reviews about the last 2, but did not know of Instapure. Given that it was real cheap, I decided to try it.



So far, so good. When I first installed it, it had a lot of leaks where it attaches. After removing it a few times, I discovered that when I tightened it a lot, the seal would get into the metal adapter. So the next time, I tightened enough so that the filter doesn't swing loosely, but not enough to make the seal pop into the adapter. That eliminated all leaks.



Also, instead of first installing the adapter on the faucet, and then on the Filter, I first attached it to the filter, tightened it, and then spun the whole filter into the Faucet. This made it really easy to install.

This is the second unit I have purchased, I love it, the water tastes great. The reason a second unit? The first one lasted 8 years and became clogged because of the hard water we have here. Nevertheless, 8 years, what a great return on value. Thank goodness I could get another unit.

The person giving this a bad review obviously does not own this. This filter comes with a tool to use to screw the head off or on. If you take out all the original washers to the faucet and install this correctly it does not leak. Results are very tasty with this filter when installed correctly. The filter must be turned on for 2 minutes to flush it out. I was originally looking for the culligan one at my local hard ware store bought they only had this one so I just gave it a shot. It made a huge difference. It says it only removes 92% of cholorine and bad taste but let me tell you I could taste the chlorine before but now not at all and the taste is excellent. Not only that instapur gives great bulk deals for filters on their website. Let me say we buy no more bottled water with this filter.

The Instapure F-2C water filter I ordered was a replacement for the filter I'd been using for more than 5 years and which finally broke down. As far as I know, all it does is to remove the chlorine smell, which I found annoying at times, from tap water. This is all it claims to do and it fills this function adequately.



I had to order this item on the net because, although I live in the center of New York City, I could not find this type of simple low-priced filter in any of the near by stores, and I'm finding more and more that ordinary non high end merchandise is not available here. I find this trend, and what it says about our society, very negative. - Thirsty - Filter - Instapure - Faucet Water Filters'

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Jessica Chastain

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What I can't understand is actually the fuss surrounding this film. People aren't just confused by it, they're acting offended by it. Apparently audiences in a lot of showings were yelling at the screen and snapping at people who tried to shush them. This movie was unusual, but I don't get what caused people to be so actively offended by it when they can sit through most movies, ambitious or otherwise, without any real problem. Is it the norm in our culture now to react to unexpected or strange images on the screen by getting angry and yelling? Could I just go out on a limb and say that if you leave before a film's over or spend the entire time yelling at the screen, I have no respect for your opinion of the film?Chimps parading as people aside, I at least enjoyed the movie. I saw it late in its run so I never had to worry about an audience yelling at the screen.I'm the kind of person who's patient. If a movie confuses me I don't flip out or start yelling and ranting; I sit it out. So that's what I did with this movie. I tried my best to see what Malick was doing, because I think it's pretty obvious that such a respected filmmaker would have seen at least some reason for making this movie.First of all, there's one major reason why this film isn't for everyone and it's not one I've heard anyone else mention:The film, from top to bottom, is extremely musical. I mean that in many ways, but let me be clearer: The father in the family the story focuses on wanted to be a conductor and dropped off that career path in favor of a secure job. The soundtrack is all very carefully-chosen classical music.And if you zoom out far enough, the overall structure of the film is actually a very musical one - you could almost see it as some insane variant on sonata form. It's hard to describe, but visual themes resurface at various times in the film in ways that feel very similar to recapitulations in music.As I said; not for everyone. I picked up on this stuff, but I'm a musician. I loved it.As far as the images of dinosaurs and the cosmos interspersed in it, my impression was that Malick was trying to show cycles of creation, longing and destruction in frameworks other than those of humans. As I saw it - and this is up for debate - I read the movie as showing a very eastern sort of philosophy; one that involves a sort of reincarnation or continuation beyond the lives and deaths of individuals, species, or even planets.Call that pretentious if you want, I thought it was done very nicely, though, and I'm very decidedly buying it as soon as it's out on DVD.Also, I don't get why people bothered yelling at the scenes of the cosmos. If you didn't get it, I still think it was some of the most beautiful visuals I've seen in a film in a really long time. Relax. It's pretty. The Tree of Life (Three-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo + Digital Copy)

Terrence Malick's fifth feature is a mystifying and contemplative cinematic experience with a focus on the nature of good and evil, grace versus nature, god and his absence, love, grief, innocence, reconciliation and human existence all observed at times at a cosmic scale but mostly with intimate detail. Though far from containing a conventional narrative, the story within the enigmatic pondering of "The Tree of Life" revolves around Jack O'Brien, first seen as a wary middle aged man in modern times. He awakes one morning after he apparently dreams of his parents on the anniversary of the death of his brother who he loved deeply; a death that still troubles him. As he goes about his day working his corporate job the death of his sibling weighs heavily on him. Jack then begins, as he has probably done countless times before, to search for answers to that overburdening question `Why? Why do we die and what is the purpose of life'. Questions asked in hopes to better understand his loss and reconcile his grief.



The search for the answer, which inevitably questions god's existence, starts where one tends to look for something, the beginning. We are quickly transported to the very first moments of the creation of the universe and travel forward through time to the formation of earth, the dawn of living organisms at a microscopic level and eventually complex life forms. Next we get to the real center of the story as we witness the birth and childhood of Jack. This entire story is observed through Jacks memories of living in a small town in Texas during the 50's. I believe it is very important to consider that these scenes are told through his memory and so contain a dreamlike and visceral atmosphere. We are not watching it play out as a narrative would in any other film; instead we get fragments of his childhood, each an individual memory strung together as they flow through Jack's mind. The fact that these are memories also helps in understanding the view of his parents and the way in which they represent the sides of grace and nature to such extremes; as in Malick's "Days of Heaven" one questions whether they are a true representation of the characters or just how Jack remembers them so many years later.



Jessica Chastain plays `Mother', the way of grace, as a free spirited, caring and nurturing guide who teaches love, forgiveness and the enjoyment of life. The dueling force is nature, played incredibly well by Brad Pitt, as the disciplinarian father figure who runs his family with an iron fist in an attempt to instill toughness and a yearning for achieving greatness through any means. Together they reflect the inner workings of the cosmos and have a profound influence on Jack and at times he struggles to find a balance. As he grows he witnesses the harshness of the world around him, experiencing jealousy, lust, death and is often tempted by evil and sinful thoughts. At the same time however these struggles help him to grow and understand life and he comes to express a deep love and fondness for his family, especially his brother, though his mind still questions many things as it does for us all.



As expected with any Malick film the events in Jack's life are not a direct depiction of reality, and Malick really doesn't care much about their outcomes or how the story unfolds in a literal sense; instead what matters is making the audience experience these events through the inner mind and consciousness of the characters. As with his other work he relies heavily on voice over narration to convey the intimate thoughts of these characters, but this time they seem to be speaking for us and not just for themselves. All of this is constructed within a very visual backdrop with breathtakingly beautiful imagery utilizing lights, shadows, sounds, CGI, nature and settings with such perfection only a true artist like Malick could achieve giving even the most simple images complex meaning.



Together it is all truly poetry in motion and though it is a term I have used many times before it has never been more fitting. The entire film is unlike any other I have seen, one that will rattle your perspective on the world. Personally, the entire experience challenged me emotionally, mentally and spirituality; I'm not a religious man and I understand the examination of Christian values and Gods part in the story but the spiritualism at play I believe transcended religion or faith and although it looks to god for answers and at times tries to explain his actions, the thematic outcomes are open to so much interpretation that to claim you know the answer would undermine the films intentions. In the end there are no definitive answers; in the bigger picture of things we live but a small moment in time. One of the final scenes depicts what is seen to be `heaven' but not in a literal sense. God does not show his presence, and it isn't located among the clouds. One does not encounter angels and no answers are given to such complex questions like `Why are we here?", instead there are only the ones we love as we remember them. Heaven is merely the place within our hearts where we cherish the memories of the past and it is in those memories and through those people we lived them with that we find a meaning and a reason to love and live. It is there where one finds true reconciliation, understanding and peace and by films end that is what Jack and the audience get. It is such a powerful and poignant culmination of everything that comes before it and one cannot help but be moved by it all.



I should mention that Pitt's character genuinely believes that the world is a `survival of the fittest' sort of place, which plays a big part in his personality and how he treats his children. But at the same time he does want love and there is evidence of a level of grace within him, maybe because his father and mother represented the same sort of divide between grace and nature, instilling these sorts of things on him and though he tried to rejected certain aspects and struggled to find a balance like Jack his father's views were too strong and had the big impact on him. Now he is doing the same to his children whom I think at times he understands and possibly regrets but honestly thinks it is for the best. I think it does sort of show just how Pitt's character's parents had a similar effect on him (this struggle between toughness/love; mother vs./ father) which gets passed down throughout the generations, especially at that time in history when we tend to viewed father figures as disconnected and tough workers and mothers as simply caring nurturers.



I do think it is his best performance. There is so much complexity; he isn't just this authoritarian father figure, though on the surface that is what we see. He strongly has a desire to make it in the world and do the best for his family, but the only way he knows how is to be aggressive and when that creates a divide or he doesn't succeed you can see the disappoint and you understand the pain it must bring to him so he becomes a very sympathetic character and Pitt plays him all too well, expressing so much pain and anger in his face and movements. I would love to see him nominated for this role.



Jessica Chastain puts on just as wonderful of a performance playing the mother. This has a lot to be with her just being such a beautiful and elegant individual in real life and so was easily able to embody the character of `grace'. I must also mention Hunter McCracken who is just fantastic as Jack's childhood image. A young actor whose eyes seemed to express years of pain and deep thought, a rare thing.



Overall "The Tree of Life" will undoubtedly divide the general film going audience. In the showing I attended I saw one couple walk out while at the same time as the final scenes began to play a woman in front of me was in tears. No one will be affected in the same way as others; those with no previous experience with Malick's work might find the whole thing pretentious, difficult to understand and hard to sit through which is very understandable. Those with a bit of patience and an open mind will bear witness to what might possibly be one of the most ambitious, beautiful and best films ever that will stick with you long after you leave the theater and will be discussed and analyzed for years to come.'

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5 Inch Random Orbital Sander

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I purchased this sander a few months ago to replace a similar type Bosch. I run a small custom cabinet shop and use finish sanders hard and constantly. So far this sander is performing without any problems and has ample power to do what I need it to do. The biggest problem that I have run across with other sanders like the Bosch, Dewalt, and Porter Cable sanders is that they do not have enough power. They work ok until you add some top pressure, then they bog down and run hot. This sander does not. The Dewalt sander has a slightly higher amperage rating than this one and still seems to slow down. Consistent sanding RPM is a key factor in getting a proper and evenly sanded surface (if not, you'll find out when the stain goes on!). The adjustable second knob handle is very convenient for applying even sanding pressure and can be moved to any position around the sander or removed completely. The dust bag would be the only complaint since they have only a minimal effect on capturing dust (all dust bags on these type of sanders really do not work). This sander was instead easily connected to a dust extraction machine in my shop but could also be connected to a shop vac the same way with the right hose and adapter (Amazon carries all the hoses and fittings to make this work).

With all things considered, Makita has designed and built a good sander for the price. Sure there are bigger and more powerful sanders but they are not in the same class as these lightweight and compact sanders. I am purchasing another one of these to replace a Porter Cable sander that broke for the last time. Makita BO5041K 5-Inch Random Orbit Sander Kit

This is a great sander. While I don't have experience with other sanders, this one was great. The addition of the handle and rubber palm top adds great stability. The variable speeds offer different options for sanding surfaces. The hook loop is definitely a much easier method for changing sand paper surfaces.

When buying power tools from outside America, beware of the voltage of the tool to suit your countries voltage. Otherwise you have to buy a transformer which is not cheap. Amazon says you can return it knowing full well that you want because of the cost of returning it. It may be cheap but in the end it becomes more expensive. Buyer beware.

I went through a ridgid (runner up) dewalt (worst) and Milwaukee orbitals. I dint have a lot of time to write a full review, but If you want a professional product then go with the makita... Hands down it is the best



Hope this helps

I was concerned that any hand sander would be too heavy and run away from me when it was powered up. I was so pleased that neither of those concerns became a reality. The hand handle works well to keep it where you want it. FYI - the papers at your local hardware store are less than what is recommended for you when you buy this sander. This sander was so much fun, I'm actually looking for areas where I can use it!

Just purchased this product recently and I am glad I did. The sander comes in a nice plastic case. Very easy to install the discs on the sander. And love the 5-speed settings on the sander. Makes it extremely easy to control the speed of sanding based on the surface its being used on. And the best part is the extra handle which is also removable. Makes it extremely comfortable to sand any item as the handle makes it very easy to hold the sander and manoeuvre it around. I do not know of any other brand....Milwaukee, Dewalt, Bosch or other that has this extra handle. The vibrations are not too visible and noise level is not too high either. I would recommend this product to everyone. High quality product to say the least.....Makita does not disappoint, and you will not be disappointed.'

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Touch Screen Stylus - ipad, ipad stylus

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The Kensington Virtuoso Touch Screen Stylus and Pen (i.e., the Kensington 2nd Generation Stylus and Pen, as Amazon lists it), measures 5 1/8" from the stylus tip to the end (by my own measurements). This makes it nearly an inch longer than my BoxWave Capacitive iPad Stylus, which is 4 1/4" from stylus tip to the end (not including the part protruding from the end that allows the user to attach a short string to the BoxWave at the other end of which is a plug that can be stuck into the iPad audio out port). Please note that BoxWave now has a stylus on the market that is virtually identical in appearance and function to the Kensington Virtuoso, called the BoxWave Styra. I haven't tried one and that is not the BoxWave model I'm comparing the Virtuoso with. I have big hands (x-large size gloves, larger if available), and the extra 7/8" in length really makes a difference in stylus holding comfort. Plus, it enables me to move my fingers back further on the stylus so that my fingers are further from the iPad screen, which is especially useful when I am using the SketchPad Pro app.



This is subjective, but it seems to me that the Kensington tip glides a bit more smoothly on the iPad screen than the BoxWave, but it also seems that I have to tap the screen a bit harder with the Kensington than I do with the BoxWave in order for the screen to respond.



Both styli are equally slim, and while I prefer fat pens (e.g., Dr. Grip) for non-digital use, the slimness of the Kensington and BoxWave styli seem to make them easier to use on the iPad's smallish screen, at least for me. I've tried grips on these styli and while this felt comfortable, I did not like how it affected my visual experience of my hand over the iPad (I'm left-handed and like most lefties I have to hold my hand above whatever I'm writing or drawing on - paper or touch screen, meaning that my hand is already in a position that tends to block what I'm working on, so this is a factor that may not be an issue for right-handers).



If I could only have one stylus, I'd choose the Kensington, because of it's longer length. That it has a built-in ballpoint is nice in that it's convenient, though the cap cannot be placed over the stylus end when the ballpoint is in use.



Another plus to this type of pen (this would apply to the BoxWave Styra, which is also a stylus/ballpoint, but not to the BoxWave listed at Amazon as the "BoxWave Capacitive iPad Stylus"), is that the cap that covers the ballpoint and that has a clip on it rotates, whereas the standard BoxWave clip does not. This matters to me because I find it uncomfortable to use the stylus when the clip is resting against the part of my hand between my thumb and forefinger, and because the clip on the standard BoxWave (and I imagine on other styli that are not stylus/pen combos) does not rotate, this means that the user is always applying the same part of the stylus tip to the iPad screen. It may take a long time for the tip to begin to wear to the point that it interferes with the stylus's functionality, but having to use the tip in only one position is kind of like having to use a pencil eraser on only one edge so that it wears down unevenly. (A user on an iPad app forum reports that he literally wore a hole in the tip of his iPad stylus after heavy use over time.)



Finally, I suggest that anyone considering this stylus check out the video review of it for which you can find a link (to YouTube) Kensington's page for the Virtuoso at their US website (Amazon deleted the link from this review, so you'll have to find it via a search).



I should add that it's a very nice looking pen. I have a pen collection, mostly fountain pens, and for a cheap pen (compared to the kinds of pens collectors tend to collect), this pen is good quality and looks like it's good quality. The no-name brand ballpoint ink cartridge is the fat type, and in the video I mention above the reviewer (Josh Smith from Notebooks dot com) says that the cartridge can be replaced with "a standard Parker refill." Kensington 2nd Generation Apple iPad 1 and 2 / iPhone / iPod / Motorola Xoom Tablet / Galaxy / Blackberry Playbook Virtuoso Touch Screen Stylus and Pen (Black) Newest Model

I use this pen with my ipad to take notes and do some sketches. I like that it's a little longer than other stylus pens. It has a reel pen feel to it rather than a short, difficult-to handle stylus. It looks nice and it very light. I definitely recommend.

This is my first stylus, so I don't have much to compare it to, but as far as I can tell, it works great and the pen on the other side is useful ... for the few times that I need to use paper.



What I like most about this stylus is when it's paired with the iPad 2 SmartCover. When moving around the office, I can stick the stylus to the side of the SmartCover and walk around without worrying about where I left the stylus. It relies on the magnets in the cover and since the stylus is steel it sticks to the cover.



It's probably unintentional feature, but very handy. - Ipad Pen - Ipad - Ipad Stylus - Ipad Stylus Pen'

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Diamond

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Does what it says ... sort of. I bought this item mainly to play mp4 files but when I tried none of my mp4 files would play - "unsupported file format" was the error message. I tried the photo function for playing slide shows of jpg files and that worked fine. I produce my own mp4s using an iMac and iMovie as well as one other software program so I thought this could be a compatibility problem. I contacted the Diamond support desk and they were quite helpful although they confirmed the problem was that there are several types of mp4 files and the ones produced by my Mac weren't compatible with the HD Diamond. There is a solution though if you're faced with this dilemma. I checked and found DivX conversion software ([...]) and downloaded the trial version and converted my unplayable mp4 file to a DivX file which played with no problems on my TV using the HD Diamond Media Wonder. This software costs about $10 so it's an added cost if you have a Mac. I have no idea if Windows-produced mp4s are OK or whether similar problems would be encountered on other media player products but if playing mp4s is what you're after, before you spend your hard-earned dollars you might want to check to see if your files are compatible. Diamond HD Media Wonder Mini Media Player

This product does what it says. For the size and the price - a good buy. Able to play recognized formats straight off external hard drive, or flash drives. Does not play MP4, most of my stuff .avi, so not a real issue. Only problem I can see is if you loose or break the remote the device is useless. Take good care of the remote.

Like the the title says the Diamond Multimedia Mini Wonder MP700 Player

Works Great and at the price (I ordered at the $32.99 price and also got the

$20 mail-in rebate bringing the price down to a whopping $12.99 incl. shipping)

how could anyone complain - as the other reviewers stated 'it mostly does what is stated that it's capable of... That is it plays many formats streamed to ANY television. I could see how this would be a nice feature for older flat panel wide-screen TV's but It seems many of the newer LED Flat panel TV's have this technology built in - they come with USB and Memory Card slots to allow playing of data files.

Where this little unit really shines is for use with old-school analog tube TV's.

With only an RCA plug for L/R and Video I'm able to watch (with very nice quality I might add) all the content on my little 500GB WD Passport portable USB drive (no additional power supply needed - the Mini Wonder provides all the power needed to run your external USB drive). It also allows for plugging in your memory card at the same time and switching between the two via the remote. It brings photos up in thumbnail format for your choice of viewing and also offers slideshow ability with customizable

transitions and you can even have it play your choice of music (off the same drive/card) in the background while the slide show runs.



Format recognition is not very diverse but enough are recognized to make the unit more than useful. Another user mentioned using a DivX converter and that will come in very handy for the 10 out of about 100 movies I have on my external USB drive.

That's right only 10 out of 100 of my titles wouldn't play without conversion.

That's a decent enough ratio to make the Mini Wonder well worth the money.

If you get the Diamond Mini Wonder MP700 Multimedia Player expect to have a little learning curve about media formats. Not all AVI, MP4, MPEG etc. files are created the same. The unit DOES play all the formats mentioned but not every type of those formats.

As long as you plan on needing to convert some things and that most stuff will play fine this product should more than meet your expectations.

I also wanted to touch on the size and portability that many mention is important to them. Yes the unit is half the size of an iPhone; and yes it is extremely portable, perfect for carrying around with you. BUT, unfortunately the small size is somewhat negated by the fact that you must have the power adapter, TV patchcord and remote along with the unit for everything to work. So yes it very portable all things considered, but it's not like all you have to carry around is the little 2.5" x 2.5"

player.

At the current $32.99 price the Diamond Multimedia player is a good value, if you can find it for less it makes it a GREAT value! Buy one NOW!



Edit Addition:

Forgot to mention a few things which I find important features of the Mini Wonder.

The player recognizes and will 'play' (bring up on screen) plain text (.txt) files - great for lists, descriptions, reminders etc.

One of the major assets when using the Mini Wonder is having the ability to copy and/or delete files directly. You can choose single or multiple files (in the same directory) to delete or copy to the same device or the other device. So if you have

a new movie on a memory card and you have an external USB drive connected you can copy between the two. Copy and delete operations are pretty fast -almost instant (though I would think the class/speed of a given memory card has something to do with that speed).

Especially handy when you have a large drive that needs 'weeding' - you can just sit back on the couch and using the Mini Wonder remote, go through the drive to delete

what you no longer need/want. Also handy to delete the movie you just watched but don't intend to keep/archive.

All-in-all I'm liking the Diamond MP700 Mini Wonder Multimedia player more and more the more I use it.

I can't say much in regard to the long term durability and reliability of the unit since I've only had it about a week - seems fairly sturdy but I could imagine frying the thing if it is left powered-on 24/7.'

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Braves Baseball Cap - hats, braves cap

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I got this as a complement to the traditional red, white & blue cap. I have a fairly big noggin (about size 7 1/2), and the cap easily adjusted to fit my head. It probably wouldn't fit people with extremely large heads (I have a friend who has never found a cap he could successfully wear), so don't take this to mean it will fit everyone.

But it's comfortable, and I like the plain navy-and-white look. Atlanta Braves Clean Up Adjustable Cap

I love this hat. It fits great and looks great. The twill is soft and comfortable, not rough as it appears in the photos.



The hat is adjustable and the strap slides into a slot on the back to keep it out of the way. The buckle for the strap snaps on and off the back of the hat, making it easier to adjust. Unsnap it, adjust strap length, snap it back on and tuck the excess strap into the slot. You don't have to unsnap the buckle to adjust the strap, but it can make it easier to get a perfect fit.



This is my second version of this hat. I wore out the first one and had to finally throw it out after about four years of wear. I was very happy to get a replacement.

I have to thank a previous reviewer who mentioned that this cap had a snap back to adjust it. I like to wear my hair in a pony-tail and like it when you can unsnap the adjustable strap and put it under my ponytail and snap the hat on. It is difficult to find baseball hats these days with that feature. Many have the plastic back strap with various snap backs--but I don't like those. I was looking for a hat with the metal snap to keep the hat in place. I wish I could find more styles. I am not a huge Braves fan--but I am a big fan ot his hat. The fact that it is navy blue and goes with most of the sports outfits I wear is an added bonus. - Braves Baseball Cap - Braves Cap - Hats - Braves Hat'

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Adventure - cultural, italy

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"Made in Italy" takes us on a richly layered tour of the country's landscape, art, cuisine and culture. The novel centers on Frank Avetta, a down on his luck, 40-something Italian-American. When an unexpected inheritance draws him to a small Italian mountain town, Frank embarks on a journey of self-discovery as he learns about his ancestral roots. He quickly finds himself pulled into a dangerous turf war involving preservationists, greedy corporate developers and centuries-old antiquities. Along the way he meets a colorful array of characters (including a mysterious love interest) who take him on an insider tour of the countryside. The lush writing conveys a multi-sensory experience of Italy's food, wine, and traditions. And the suspenseful story keeps you turning the pages. It's a fast-paced, exciting, educational read. Made in Italy

I loved this book. Once you start the book you don't want to put it down. You find yourself wondering what happens next to Frank Avetta, a former Olympic bronze medalist in cross-country skiing, who is currently in Aspen and down on his luck when he inherits a house of his own in the Italian mountains. There he confronts a multitude of problems! It will educate you on the history and culture of Northern Italy. As mentioned above the descriptions of food are mouth watering.

What could be better than a return to Italy (or your first visit if you've never been)? Romance, food, wine, ambiance, culture, antiquities, and more await. Have dinner first or you'll be too hungry to finish Frank Avetta's most excellent adventure. Then put your feet up, open a bottle of vino, and enjoy. I sure did!!

I loved this book. It is a beautifully written and conceived adventure/mystery for the thinking person. Frank Avetta, a former Olympic bronze medalist in cross-country skiing, is drifting in Aspen, working on other people's houses and barely avoiding bankruptcy, when he inherits a house of his own in the Italian mountains. There he confronts corporate developers, art thieves, and his own lack of connection with his heritage and other people. The pacing is excellent as the book leads to its climax, and along the way we gain with Frank knowledge of the history and culture of Northern Italy as well as an abiding sense of place. The characters are compelling and the prose is first-rate. The descriptions of food alone are so vivid you will gain 5 pounds just reading the book!

This is a wonderful, well-written book. A real page-turner with substance. Immerse yourself in the adventures of a failing former Olympic skier, as he discovers his rich heritage in the Italian Alps. Loved it!!

Set in the mountains in northern Italy, "Made in Italy" chronicles the adventures of Frank Avetta, a former Olympic medalist in cross country skiing who inherits an ancient property in northern Italy. Down on his luck, he leaves Aspen to check out his inheritance, only to fall in love with the scenery, people, wine and food in the small mountain village. Alas, not all is idyllic, and Frank soon finds himself up against a lot more than he bargained for when antique smugglers, rogue real estate developers and shady lawyers are all trying to divest him of his property in more and more drastic ways. This is a page-turner and I found myself reading through the last half of the book almost in one sitting. As fast paced as it is, the author slows down the action to allow you to savor the tastes, smells, and scenery of the region, as well as introducing compelling characters. A very enjoyable book...highly recommended!

This certainly meets my definition of a "page-turner". I ended up procrastinating on a number of worth-while projects in order to find out where this story would go. Some interesting cultural insights (including North American resort) enhanced the flavor of the book. My advise: Yes, absolutely, read it, but in order for you to keep in good standing don't start reading just before an event that is important for you to be in attendance (like an aniversary dinner with your significant other).

Does anybody have a spare airline ticket to Milan they would like to donate to me? - Action - Cultural - Romance - Italy'

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Summer Studies - summer studies, reading

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We live abroad and so our kids' English isn't up to the level of their peers in the States. We'll be moving back to the States this coming year though and I wanted to be able to see where exactly my kids stood vis-a-vis their English skills, so I could then work on the areas they needed help in. I bought the reading and writing books in this series from grades 1-4. The books are not only an excellent tool in tracking where your child needs extra help or where his strengths lie - they are also loads of fun for the kids. With these books and some extra effort on the kids' part, I feel confident that we can get them at or near the appropriate level for their age by the time we move. No more guessing about what material to cover or whether particular texts are too easy or too difficult. These books make learning fun for the kids and they take a lot of the stress away for parents. I highly recommend the series! 1st Grade Writing Practice (Practice (Scholastic))

I am a homeschooling mom, and I used this workbook at the beginning of the school year as a review for my second grader. It is only about 46 pages long so I couldn't use it as a curriculum for the whole year. The beginning is very easy but it gets progressively harder towards the end. It goes over, what makes a sentence, capitals, punctuation, nouns, verbs, adjectives, beginning, middle, end, and writing sentences/short stories. Most importantly it held my daughter's attention (she has ADHD and it's difficult to find material that will keep her attention), she enjoyed reading the stories, and writing the sentences. It was an inexpensive and wonderful workbook. She was a reluctant writer before, but now she really enjoys writing sentences and stories. I really can't say enough good things about it. I am now going to order the 2nd grade writing practice to supplement her current writing program. - Reading - Summer Studies - Language Arts - School Zone'

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Ankle Weights

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After all the negative reviews I've read about other ankle weights, I got these and they are perfect. I think they cost a bit more than the usual but well worth it. I put them on the first time and not one complaint and I have very small ankles and am a beginner exerciser, so I was worried, but they are perfect. I highly recommend them. Thera-Band Comfort Fit Ankle/Wrist Cuff Weight Sets - Sold in Pairs-5lbs (two 2.5 lb cuffs)-Blue

I wear the green ones when power walking. It's only been about a week but I can already tell the difference in my thighs and glutes. Today, by accident, I discovered that they're much more comfortable if I wear them with the closure in the back.



It doesn't say in the product description, but the grey ribbon at the top and bottom is reflective -- a small but very effective safety feature. I walk along residential streets near my home, so being seen by drivers is important.

I bought the 1 lb. weights to put on my wrists when I do aerobics but my wrists are so skinny that they would shift every time I lifted my arms up and down. So I decided to put them on my ankles instead. If you put on a pair of thin socks and then the weights over them, its a pefect fit. Snug, no movement...can't even tell you have them on. Great for wearing while doing housework or anything while moving around. I may get the 2 lb. weights for a better workout.

Works really well and super comfortable. It is lined with soft terry cloth so no chaffing on your ankles. I wear them almost everyday doing my mat and barre workouts and they add that extra resistance comfortably.

These work just like they are supposed to. The straps are very adjustable, so they fit well around my small ankles. I got the 3 lbs. and am glad I did. I use these with "Brazil Butt Lift" and was going to go with the lighter weights, but these are just the right weight. It makes the work harder, I feel a burn, but it isn't too difficult.

These ended up being exactly as I expected. Great quality, easy to use and they don't make you look like a dork.. A great work out is wearing them while on the treadmill and holding arms out straight in front of you.

Very pleased with them. I use both 2.5 cuffs on my ankle to do an exercise that my physical therapist instructed me to do, twice a day. Easy to attach. My only concern is over the long run, how durable will the velco straps prove to be. Only time will tell. Thinking of buying the one pound weights in the future.'

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