The Best Mafia War Loot Item

Attack
● Weapon: Ubijca Assault Rifle [43,18] | [Ep5-Ch2-Vory]
● Armor: Shturmovik [45,28] | [Ep4-Ch2-Vory]
● Vehicle: Zoloto Sports Car [43,22] | [Ep6-Ch3-Both]


Defense
● Weapon: Zmeya carbon Blade [28,44] | [Ep6-Ch2-Mafiya]
● Armor: Executive Overcoat [22,45] | [Ep6-Ch1-Both]
● Vehicle: Konstantin Cargo Carrier [18,44] | [Ep6-Ch2-Vory]

So don't waste your godfather point to buy weapon below the best weapon that you can get by doin the job in Moscow.

Mafia Wars Moscow Loot

Ubijca Assault Rifle

43 Attack 18 Defense 100-20

Zmeya Carbon Blade

28 Attack & 44 Defense 100-20

Konstantin Cargo Carrier

18 Attack 44 Defense 100-20

Zoloto Sports Car

43 attack, 22 defense 100-15

Executive Overcoat

22 attack, 45 defense 100-15

Armored Briefcase

25 Attack 36 Defense 100-18

Shturmovik

45 Attack 28 Defense 100-20

How to make your Taskbar in Windows 7 looks like Vista

Probably the biggest thing people have noticed when they use Windows 7 is the Taskbar’s appearance change. Now there are only those supper big icons on the taskbar ! So if I want to change it back to the old style how can I do that?

Well its easier than you think. First right click on the taskbar go to > properties.



Now Check “Use Small icons” under “Taskbar” Tab, and choose “Combine when taskbar is full or Never Combine” Under Taskbar Buttons.

Click Apply when done making the change. And Now you should see something more familiar.



Note: the old quick launch will now out of place. Simply keep all the application pinto the taskbar will now become the quick launch, and remove those programs to rearrange them all to the right.

Here is the beginning of my post. And here is the rest of it.

Dead Sea needs world help to stay alive

Dead Sea needs world help to stay alive AFP/File – Jordanians stand in a semi-deserted field near the Dead Sea south of Amman on November 9. The Dead Sea …
by Ahmad Khatib Ahmad Khatib – Wed Nov 25, 12:28 pm ET

GHOR HADITHA, Jordan (AFP) – The Dead Sea may soon shrink to a lifeless pond as Middle East political strife blocks vital measures needed to halt the decay of the world's lowest and saltiest body of water, experts say.

The surface level is plunging by a metre (three feet) a year and nothing has yet been done to reverse the decline because of a lack of political cooperation as a result of the Arab-Israeli conflict.

The shoreline has receded by more than a kilometre (around a mile) in some places and the world-famous lake, a key tourism destination renowned for the beneficial effect of its minerals, could dry out by 2050, according to some calculations.

"It might be confined into a small pond. It is likely to happen and this is extremely serious. Nobody is doing anything now to save it," said water expert Dureid Mahasneh, a former Jordan Valley Authority chief.

"Saving the Dead Sea is a regional issue, and if you take the heritage, environmental and historical importance, or even the geographical importance, it is an international issue."

Landlocked between Jordan, Israel and the West Bank, the Dead Sea is rapidly vanishing because water which previously flowed into the lake is being diverted and also extracted to service industry and agriculture.

Jordan decided in September to go it alone and build a two-billion-dollar pipeline from the Red Sea to start refilling the Dead Sea without help from proposed partners Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

However, that project is controversial and Mahasneh stressed that Jordan alone is not capable of solving the Dead Sea's problems.

The degradation began in the 1960s when Israel, Jordan and Syria began to divert water from the Jordan River, the Dead Sea's main supplier.

For decades, the three neighbouring countries have taken around 95 percent of the river's flow for agricultural and industrial use. Israel alone diverts more than 60 percent of the river.

The impact on the Dead Sea has been compounded by a drop in groundwater levels as rain water from surrounding mountains dissolved salt deposits that had previously plugged access to underground caverns.

Industrial operations around the shores of the lake also contribute to its problems.

Both Israel and Jordan have set up massive evaporation pools to vaporise Dead Sea water for the production of phosphate, while five-star hotels have sprung up along its shores, where tourists flock for the curative powers of the sea mud and minerals.

The salty lake is currently 67 kilometres (42 miles) long and 18 kilometres (11 miles) wide.

The top of the water was already 395 metres (1,303 feet) under global sea level in the 1960s but the drying out has lowered the surface further to minus 422 metres (1,392 feet), according to Friends of the Earth Middle East (FoEME).

Mahasneh says climate change is aggravating the crisis. "Climate change affected everything," he said. "It's an umbrella for many problems, including short rainfall.

"Nothing is being seriously done to tackle climate change. Sustainable and integrated solutions are needed."

The World Bank has funded a two-year study of the plan for a pipeline from the Red Sea to replenish the Dead Sea.

The project, agreed in outline by Israel, the Palestinian Authority and Jordan in 2005, aims to channel two billion cubic metres (70 billion cubic feet) of water a year via a 200-kilometre (120-mile) canal to produce fresh water and generate electricity as well as raise the Dead Sea.

But some environmentalists say the scheme could harm the Dead Sea further by changing its unique chemistry by introducing Red Sea water.

"We are dealing with at least two sensitive and different ecosystems: the Dead Sea and the Red Sea. We also need to keep an open mind about other possible alternatives," said Munqeth Mehyar, FoEME chair.

Mahasneh supports the plan, saying: "The Dead-Red project is like a salvage plan -- there is no other option. But it won't be an easy task for political and economic reasons."

Jordan's Environment Minister Khaled Irani said: "Let's wait and see the results of the study of the environmental impact."

"We might not go ahead with the project if it is going to create a major mess with the ecosystem, but if we can bring water to the Dead Sea and maintain the same ecological quality of the Dead Sea, why not?"

Friends of the Earth's Mehyar believes saving the Jordan River is key to the Dead Sea.

The waterway is under severe ecological strain because large amounts of raw sewage gush untreated at various locations into the relative trickle left after the diversion of most of the Jordan River.

During the past 50 years, the river's annual flow has dropped from more than 1.3 billion cubic metres (46 billion cubic feet) to around 70 million cubic metres (around 2.5 billion cubic feet), according to FoEME.

"We are working hard to push for rehabilitating the Jordan River by increasing and maintaining its flow in order to save it and save the Dead Sea," Mehyar said.

"The Dead Sea is in danger and that's for sure. I can't claim that we can prevent the level of the Dead Sea from dropping more, but I think we can control the problem and cooperation from all sides is a must."

Most of the springs in the Jordan Valley which flow directly into the Dead Sea are currently dammed, according to water experts.

Jordan, where the population of around six million is expanding by 3.5 percent a year, is a largely desert country that depends greatly on rainfall. It needs every drop of water to meet domestic, agricultural and industrial requirements.

The tiny kingdom, which forecasts it will need 1.6 billion cubic metres (56 billion cubic metres) of water a year by 2015, is one of the 10 driest countries in the world, with desert covering 92 percent of its territory.

"We need to make sure that there is always running water flowing into the Dead Sea," Irani said.

"The Dead Sea is unique in many aspects, not only for Jordan, but also for the Israelis and Palestinians."

One side effect of the lake's falling water volumes is the appearance of large sinkholes along its shores, creating serious problems for farmers and businesses.

"A sinkhole destroyed my farm 10 years ago and forced me to move and work for other farmers," said Izzat Khanazreh, 42, as he puffed on a cigarette, his face tanned by working long hours under a hot sun.

He used to grow vegetables in his farm in Ghor Haditha in the southern Jordan Valley, a bare and sun-baked area around the Dead Sea.

"Nobody compensated me for my loss. My land was full of cracks and it was impossible to do anything about it," said Khanazreh, standing beside a sinkhole about 20 metres (65 feet) wide and 40 metres (130 feet) deep.

There are an estimated 100 sinkholes in Ghor Haditha alone. They can open up at any time and swallow up everything above ground like a devastating earthquake.

"These sinkholes are time bombs. They can appear any time and eat everything up," said Fathi Huweimer, a field researcher with FoEME.

"Farmers do not feel secure and are anticipating more trouble. This problem is because of the degradation of the Dead Sea."

A factory for Dead Sea products in the area has had to relocate after a large sinkhole appeared beneath it, threatening the lives of more than 60 workers, Huweimer said.

Irani said Jordan will highlight the Dead Sea's problems at the Copenhagen summit on climate change next month.

"We will raise those issues in Copenhagen and say that Jordan is heavily affected and urge developed countries to allocate more resources to contribute to saving the Dead Sea," he said.

The Dead Sea may soon shrink to a lifeless pond as Middle East political strife blocks vital measures needed to halt the decay of the world's lowest and saltiest body of water. Environmentalists will plead for help at the Copenhagen summit on climate talks next month. Duration: 01:54

Four Things You Should Never Do While Building Muscle

If you love sports, then you would cherish bodybuilding as it would give you the necessary strength and stamina to perform well in your sport. No wonder, body building has gained a widespread momentum especially among youth.

A trainer would properly guide you. Seek his assistance. Initially when you start body building, your muscles may require some rest. Give them the rest as it would repair itself and it would improve your strength considerably.

Never overwork your abdominal muscles.

You should give exercise to them only when you are not performing weight lifting exercises. Abdominal muscles are weak and do not strain them as it would lead to unnecessary complications later. If you want to reduce fat, go out and run for several miles. It is the best way.

Don't just eat ANYTHING:

Body building depends mostly on the food you consume. Prefer a low-fat diet with high protein content. Protein is vital for the muscle growth. If you love your body, quit smoking. Don't go for fat rich items as it would not only hamper your body building but also your overall health. Drink water in plenty and avoid alcohol at all costs.

When you require advice

Seek it from a trainer and not from other bodybuilders. They may guide you in the wrong way as they themselves may not be aware of what they are speaking. A professional trainer would help you to get the maximum benefit out of a single exercise and minimize the risk of any possible injuries. Allow him to guide you in the right track.

Never overwork your muscles.

It is the primary rue in bodybuilding. After training allow it to recuperate for at least two days. You are not only giving rest to your muscles but also your internal organs like kidneys and liver. Sufficient rest coupled with effective training is the best way to start developing strong muscles.

Guidelines in Finding A Fitness Club

You would like to join a fitness club but there are so many choices! And then you will just end up having a headache! Fitness clubs are effective motivators. They should motivate us and not frustrate us. Before you choose on a fitness club, make sure that it suits your needs and goals. And before you do that, you should first learn and decide on what is your priority. By then, you will know what you really
need in a fitness club. Here are some guidelines you can consider in choosing a fitness club that is best for you:

Where is it located?

The location is the first thing that you should consider when finding a fitness club. If the club is far from your home, you will just another excuse not to work out. It is best to find a facility that is near your home.

Are the employees friendly and nice? Will they be able to help you reach your goals?

Make sure that the instructor has the necessary experience to work with you. The instructor should be a certified professional that can work with you safely and effectively. Your instructor should also know if you have physical limitations or you may find an instructor that is well trained to work with you. You can also check the age of the instructor especially if it is one factor for your motivation and learning. The staff should also be helpful, friendly and professional. You can also ask the services they offer and find what is important for you. Some facilities have their own dietician and physical therapists that can offer services for you.

What kind of programs does it offer?

Find time to see what programs are there for you and check if they suit your interests. Do they offer group classes? Choose the facility that offers the classes you really like. You can do a trial class to check it out if you want.

Are the facilities and equipments good and will they be available anytime that is most convenient for you?

Check if the equipments are enough for all members. Otherwise, you will waste your time falling in line and waiting for your turn. Also make sure that the facility is open during the time you are most likely to do work outs and exercises.

Is the entire facility well maintained, clean and safe for you?

Machines and other training facilities should be in clean and in good order. If you see a lot of "out of order" signs, it could be something to think about. Modern equipments are safer and more comfortable to use, so you may also want to consider that. Are the floors cleaned regularly to avoid accidents? Is there enough room for everyone? Also check if the facility is located in a place away from danger, consider also if the location is well lit.

Are the members of the club friendly and can they be your friends?

The fitness club is also a venue for social interaction. Take time to drop by and meet the members of the club before you enroll. Other members can be your buddies in the near future and should be considered.

What is the schedule of classes and will they be convenient for you?

Find out what classes are offered at a specific time and consider if you will be available at the schedules given.

How much would it cost you?

It is important to know the monthly membership fee and what it covers. Some fitness clubs have hidden charges and you should be keen in checking that. Check if they have promotions or discounts and do they offer services at an extra fee. It is also important to know how long the club has been and how often they increase rates.

How is it different from other fitness clubs?

Don't just stick into one fitness club. Try to visit as many facilities as you can and make a comparison. Then you can just narrow down your choices to the facilities that met your needs and priorities.

What do people say about it?

Take your time to gather feedback from other members. Ask them what they can say about the club and let them tell you about the experiences with the facility.

Choosing a fitness club is just like shopping on the best shirt for you. Do not be pressured and do not try to contact them right away. You can take your time to review and gather enough information if you are still not sure which one to choose. Once you have made your choice, enjoy and make the most out of it.

The Star will sing for you

THE STARS WILL SING FOR YOU
The songs may be hits, but the money is in the shows
2009/09/20

It's the festive season and you are throwing a dinner party for your friends and family. Being in a generous and expansive mood, you want top entertainment. SHUIB TAIB goes undercover to "book" the big names for your party.
FOR an artiste, it is vital to have a hit album. Your songs get played on the radio, you get invited to perform on television, and you get royalty from album sales. It's life changing.

Imagine having one hit album in a huge market like America. Your life will transform overnight. You can even retire early.

Sadly, that is not possible in a country with a proliferation of pirated CDs. Here in Malaysia, album sales have never touched the one million mark. Therefore, artistes need to secure singing engagements.

But the situation isn't all that bad. Once your song becomes a hit, you will most likely be invited to perform at big events and corporate functions and that is where you make money.

For the late Sudirman Arshad, a top entertainer during his heyday, the weekends were almost always reserved for shows.

Sudir performed almost everywhere and earned good money.

But he worked very hard too. When he performed for American Express, Sudir not only prepared the right songs, he even prepared jokes suited for the event.

"No wonder I see dollar signs in your eyes," he once told an American Express staff at one of his shows.

Indeed, an entertainer extraordinaire like him could earn a lot from one show.

Between the late 1980s and early 1990s, Sudir was making between RM25,000 and RM30,000 from one corporate dinner performance.

On special occasions like the Merdeka celebrations or New Year, his fees would double or triple.

But what about "lesser" artistes?


I recall a singer, Wann, who was famous in the late 1980s.
Wann had a different singing style -- she had a tendency to sound "constipated" -- yet, she was a saleable artiste.

Wann averaged between 20 and 25 shows per month, with payments between RM2,000 and RM3,000 per show.

That translated into more than RM60,000 per month.

Then again, not all artistes enjoy a long career. Some are a flash in the pan, which is why it makes sense for them to charge high fees while they are popular.

Also, as public figures, artistes need to always look their best. They need to be seen in expensive clothes, chauffeur-driven in big cars, and live in mansions. In short, their lifestyle reflects their popularity.

When our country enjoyed economic growth in the 1990s, so did our artistes.

DATUK SITI NURHALIZA
* RM45,000 for a 30-minute show
* RM70,000 for a one-hour show

SINCE winning the Bintang HMI more than a decade ago, Siti has remained as one of the strongest, most versatile and richest artistes the industry has ever known. Her vocal prowess is legendary. Her awards speak for themselves. Her influence is huge.

Her popularity is not only felt in Malaysia, but also in Indonesia, Singapore and Brunei. She is also the first Southeast Asian artiste to have held a solo concert at the Royal Albert Hall, London.

Siti's career defies showbiz logic, if we could call it that. Married artistes have a tough time keeping their fans but not in the case of Siti.

Siti does not accept many single singing engagements now that she is married, but when she was single, she was known to have five shows a week.

"That is how I get my vocal practice because I do serious singing almost every day," she once said.

Having released her latest album Tahajjud Cinta, Siti -- who is also adept at tackling irama Malaysia, pop, soft rock, pop rock, R&B and dance-pop as well as English numbers -- is expected to dominate the airwaves, too.

She has released 14 studio albums, nine video albums, seven concert albums, DVDs, compilations (both solo and otherwise) and live albums, making her the most active and saleable local artiste.

DATUK SHEILA MAJID
* RM35,000 for a 30-minute show
* RM55,000 for a one-hour show

WITH her trademark pop music mixed with jazz and R&B, Sheila is among the few who broke into the impenetrable Indonesian market.

The release of her album Emosi in Indonesia only further endeared her to the fans there.

Her popularity in Indonesia was boosted when she went on a nationwide tour there in 1988 that received overwhelming response.

From Indonesia Sheila spread her wings to Japan where she performed at the Tokyo Music Festival in 1989.

She left such an impression at the Okinawa Music Pageant in 1990 that she was invited back to perform in Japan by popular demand that very same year.

Sheila can also look back on her successful stint at London's Ronnie Scotts, where her idols like Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder had performed.

On the home front, Sheila, who is married to musician Acis (of Gersang fame), performed before packed audiences in Kuala Lumpur three times, the first in 1990.


ANUAR ZAIN
* RM25,000 for a 30-minute show
* RM55,000 for a one-hour show

ANUAR, 39, began singing when he was in school. Fans would remember him as one half of the "Kain Pelikat" duo with Elina.

After years of silence, Anuar made a comeback when he released his eponymous album in 1998. Things have been looking up since then.

In 2000, Anuar was named Best New Artiste at the Anugerah Industri Muzik (AIM) awards.

Keabadian Cinta, the hit song from his second album won Best Song at the AIM again the following year. Anuar began to get more accolades.

He has somewhat "arrived". Anuar now has his own Secretaries' Day show, and people pay hundreds to see him perform live.

The string of awards that he has won has only strengthened his position as one of the top male singers in the country.

Her discography includes 10 full studio albums, three of which are full English albums. Ning's singing stints have taken her to Britain, Italy, France, China, Indonesia, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Pakistan, Monte Carlo (Monaco), Switzerland and United States.

Ning is also an adept actress, having worked on several movies. They include Gemilang, Maria Mariana 2, Bara, Mimpi Moon, Malaikat Di Jendela, Lady Boss, Diva and Yasmin Ahmad's Muallaf.

Like most local stars who have survived the test of time and economic recession, Ning has also won many awards.

Due to her versatility, Ning, who is the new face of Olay Regenerist, is also highly in demand at corporate events.

JACLYN VICTOR
* RM18,000 for a 30-minute show
* RM30,000 for a one-hour show

THE singer-actress popularly known as Jac won the inaugural Malaysian Idol and Ikon Malaysia. As winner of Malaysian Idol, she won a recording contract with Sony BMG Entertainment. This high-octave singer represented Malaysia in the first Asian Idol and Ikon Asean.

Jac was 9 when her father died. To help support her three younger siblings, Jac started singing at clubs and hotel lounges when she turned 18.

It was Malaysian Idol that made her a household name. Jac impressed judges and viewers week after week with her renditions of Alicia Keys' If I Ain't Got You, Chaka Khan's I Feel For You and Karyn White's Superwoman.

By the time she entered the finals, it was obvious that she was the clear winner. In the finals, Jac performed the ballad Gemilang (Glory), the song written for the winner of Malaysian Idol, which would appear on her debut album Gemilang.

Gemilang brought more glory to Jac when it won Best Song and Best Performance awards at RTM's Hits 1 in 2006. At TV3's Juara Lagu the same year, Gemilang was Best Ballad and Song Of The Year.

At the Anugerah Planet Muzik (Singapore) in 2006, Jac was named Best Female Artiste. And, at the 13th Anugerah Industri Muzik also in 2006, Jac was Best New Artiste, won Best Arrangement in a Song, Best Pop Album and Album of the Year awards.

She also emerged champion at the Asian Music Festival in Shanghai in 2005, again with Gemilang.

Mafia War Autoplayer

This is a free auto-play script which I have tested before and it works. I don't recommend you to use auto-play scripts at all as I don't use anymore, Up to you!!! Anyway, I briefly name the steps as follows:
1- You must use Mozilla Firefox browser.
2- You must install Greasemonkey add-on in Firefox. To install Greasemonkey:
2.1- Go to Tools menu -> Add-ons.
2.2- Search for Greasemonkey in the search box and then press Add to Firefox button.
3- Go to this link and install the script.
http://userscripts.org/scripts/show/43573

NOTE1: YOU MUST BE AWARE ABOUT WHAT SCRIPT YOU INSTALL ON YOUR COMPUTER BECAUSE SCRIPTS CAN ACCESS TO THE PRIVATE INFORMATION ON YOUR COMPUTER SUCH AS USER-NAMES AND PASSWORDS WHICH YOU SAVED ON THE COMPUTER AND SO ON. PLEASE BE CAREFUL!!!!!!

NOTE2: THERE IS A RISK THAT YOUR ACCOUNT MIGHT BE BANNED BY ZYNGA OR FB.

Furthermore, there are more information available on the following link that can be helpful about Greasemonkey add-on and the script installation:
http://userscripts.org/about/installing

Happy Playing ;)

Women Think About Sex At Work 34 Times A Day

Women Think About Sex At Work 34 Times A Day

WOMEN think about sex up to 34 times in an average working day, according to a survey. That works out at the equivalent of once every 14 minutes. The amount of time spent fantasising is perhaps less surprising given that one in three women complained she does not get enough action between the sheets.

More than 1000 women were quizzed for the survey to reveal the level of sexual satisfaction. Nearly half said they were dissatisfied with their sex life, prompting them to think about sex during their working day. And it seems that lust is not just a fleeting thought, with seven in 10 women finding up to an hour a day for their naughty fantasies.

Apart from current partners, celebrities were the most common fantasy figures, closely followed by strangers who women have caught a glimpse of and former lovers. And 53 per cent admitted to a crush on someone at work, while 36 per cent said every girl should have an "office object of affection" to while away the hours at work. More than one in three single women confessed to having someone they can call for no-strings-attached sex.

Mafia War Games : Tip For Not Being Robbed

If you're reading this, you've probably been robbed... and are probably annoyed because you have to pay for repairs all the time. Additionally, you make less money on properties until they are repaired, which is no fun either.

I am NOT a whiz here, just sharing my experiences. Here are the lil' tips for not being robbed again and again :

1. Your mafia size should be at least the equivalent of your level.

Unlike defending fights, the amount of mafia members that can "help out" is equal to your level. So, if you don't want to get robbed and are level 70, you should have at least 70 people in your mafia. By having less mafia members then your level, you become a big target.

2. Make sure your mafia is well equipped.

Mafia members are only as strong as the weapons and armor you give them. Make sure every mafia member has a decent weapon, armor,
and vehicle to use. Some clans feed their mafia family very well, so they are really strong and can't be robbed!

3. Level Up!

I'm not talking about leveling up to put more points in defense or get more mafia members. Getting out of the low levels early is important for property health - players at higher levels do not rob as often, if at all. Why? Because it is not worth the stamina. Fighting yields more experience and has a chance to drop the best weapons (TNT), vehicles (Humvees), and job items (like Blackmail Photos) that the high level players need.

The $ 650,000-750,000 that is standard for robbing a casino pales in comparison to the amount of cash the "Boss" jobs produce. High level players do jobs for money rather than rob. On that note, if you are power leveling, you may find it hard to keep your mafia size equal to your level. The solution is simple - if you can't keep your mafia size equal to your level, just don't buy property (aside from Mafia Mike's) until you are around level 150. Players around level 20-80 rob much more frequently then high level players.

4. Don't rob other players.

As noted in point #3, high level players do not like to rob. The only reason to rob is to get revenge for their low level buddies. So, if you don't piss anyone off (i.e. by robbing them), you are much less likely to get robbed in return.

5. Win a lot of fights.

In Mafia Wars, the best defense is a good offense. When robbing someone, you can only see a few statistics - number of mafia members, whether the property is protected. Since a player can't actually see your defense rating, a high level of defense does little to deter attacks. What they can see however, is your win to loss ratio on fights. I know I'm a lot less likely to try to fight or rob someone that has won 10,000 fights and only lost 1,000! However, when I see someone who has lost many more fights then they have won, I know it's an easy target.

6. Don't put people on the hitlist.

If you WANT to get robbed, be sure to put someone on the hitlist! Not only will the person you put a hit out on rob you repeatedly, but so will his friends. Additionally, when someone posts a hit, their name is shown on the hitlist as well. Some bored higher level players get entertainment out of robbing and attacking people who put out hits rather than attacking for the reward money! Avoid putting your name out there and you won't get robbed (or attacked) as much.

7. Protect your property.

Protecting your property is not as expensive as you might think - it only needs to be done once if you never get robbed! If you followed steps 1-5 and protect your property, the your odds of getting robbed are slim-to-none. If you never have to pay for repairs, you'll save a lot of money!

Summary

If you are getting robbed constantly in this game, just add more people to your mafia, win a lot of fights (if your attack rating is low find a whipping boy), don't rob other players, don't put out hits, and protect your property. If all else fails, level to 150 as fast as you can- people at that level don't rob as much. Do this and I guarantee you your robbery rates will go way down!


As for me, I don't like being robbed. Sometimes mafias don't need any reason to rob others. So after I obtain my achievement by selling 50 Mega Casinos, I just sell all of them and satisfy by owning lots of Mafia Mike's. You can't rob me!


PS : Credit goes to the original writer!

Mafia Wars Games : Reward Point

Mafia Wars Rewards points allow players to obtain favors from the Godfather, like more energy. These points lead to advanced game play. Here is how to obtain them easily.

Mafia Wars for Facebook has an interesting spin on the Godfather. Reward points that can be earned through various aspects of the game. Reward points are given by the Godfather as players level up to the next level, but not on every level. Reward

points can also be obtained by doing favors for the Godfather as he indicates on this page in the game.

Reward points can be traded in for different items. Often there will be a special weapon or gift located on the homepage that can only be obtained using reward points. These gifts usually carry more defense and attack points than typical inventory weapons and so are much more valuable to have. Other items that can be bought with Reward points include:

~ Full Health Refills
~ Full Stamina Refills
~ Full Energy Refills
~ “X” Amount of Players added to Family
~ “X” Amount of Cash
~ Surprise Gift

Occasionally there might be more gifts to choose from. Of all the rewards, the Energy refill can be the most beneficial in advancing in game play. This refill allows more jobs to be completed and in turn more levels to be completed.

Obtaining Rewards Points
Waiting to get Rewards points from the Godfather is a slow process, however, for the more serious gamers there are alternative methods. These methods include:

* Purchasing Reward Points: Reward points can be purchased in varying amounts starting at $5 for 10 points. This money goes to run Zynga, the company that runs the game on Facebook.

* Reward Points Free Offers: Underneath the “Purchase Points” section on the Godfather page there is a listing that is sortable. Click on “Free” and all of the free offers that result in added Reward points appear. For example, one coupon website gives free Rewards points just for downloading and installing their toolbar. The toolbar can be removed without affecting Reward points once they are in your game. There are a lot more free offers that give points.

* Reward Points for Purchases or Trial Offers: These yield the most reward points. Credit reporting companies, identity protections companies and more offer free reward points for trying their service. They offer a one month, no obligation free trial. Once the application is completed and the credit card information is verified, the reward points are credited. Because these are trial offers, there are no fees as long as the service is cancelled within the time frame in the details.

Obtaining Rewards points is not difficult but it does take a little time. To seriously move up in game play getting more points is the most vital aspect as it allows more jobs to be completed. Earning favors from the Godfather can be the result of hard work or it can be from cold, hard cash, either way the results are more completed jobs and more levels climbed in the Family.

PS : Credit goes to Sharon Chapman!

....

Mafia Wars Games : Hard Labor Day Loot

Surprise from Zynga.
Preview all the items we've hidden in the game for the coming Labor Day weekend. From Friday to Monday, take part in Mafia Wars: Hard Labor Day.

Be ready guys... Make sure you play Mafia Wars on this weekend..

Proton Exora MPV

Proton EXORA MPV - The Malaysia’s first MPV Proton Exora launched on April 15 2009. After so long waiting this Malaysian made MPV Proton Exora, with so many leaked Proton Exora pictures and rumors, now answered. Here you are, we bring you the most wanted picture first, the back of Proton Exora. Looking at the previous leaked pictures, it is so different and this one really looks cool! We are at the EON Glenmarie during launching of Proton Exora. We are really surprised with what Proton
offers compare to the price which is around RM69k to RM75k.
Overall, the Proton Exora exterior is absolutely great and nothing else to say, Proton Exora is going to be the most desireable MPV in Malaysia. I personally proud of what Proton has made to produce our first MPV. The quality of the Proton Exora interior, nothing feels cheap. Meaning that the interior of this 7 seater MPV is nice and well designed. Especially the steering wheel which look like Honda’s steering. The 5 spoke sport rims really satisfy the eyes of observer which looks fit to the Proton Exora MPV.
From bonnet to bumper, your elegant cruising machine Proton Exora is fitted with only the best in aesthetics. Take a glance at its stylish body featuring a sporty winged grille, plus integrated head lamps and fender design. Look around some more and you’ll soon see that aerodynamics was not Proton only concern. Sophistication mattered too.
PROTON EXORA

Proton Exora Carries up to 7 adults comfortably in plush leather seats*. For more room, the 2nd and 3rd rows can be arranged and folded in 6 different ways, including completely flat.

Surprisingly, the 2nd and third row of Proton Exora fit 5 adults with comfortable space. I have tried sitting at the back and i feel that there is no problem for me to sit there for a long journey because Proton Exora can fit me without feeling uncomfortable. Amazing for an MPV below RM80k! I would say the space for third row is better than Rondo and Grand Livina. Proton Exora is really for 2 adults, not just 2 small kids.
Proton Exora comes with dual blower and individual air-cond outlets at every row, built-in entertainment system* and 10 cup holders. Interior finishing of Proton Exora is very nice.

ALL-ROUND PROTECTION : High tensile steel cage and hydro forming sub-frame technology for a safe, lightweight body that is designed to meet European impact standards. Dual airbags, smart anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake force distribution system (EBD) come standard.

SOLID PERFORMANCE : A CAMPRO CPS engine with 125hp and 150Nm of torque powers the Proton Exora economically, while Lotus driving dynamics provide agility. Sound absorption technology ensures peaceful journeys.

INTELLIGENT ELECTRONICS Access all essential electronic functions via an integrated Electronic Control module. Enjoy conveniences like signalling lane change with a swift touch of a switch, or even programming the speed of your front wipers.
Proton Exora Front bumper adds to a tough and sturdy image while its front grille carries a unique wing design.

Proton Exora Side mirrors with LED turning signal for better visibility.

A trendy LED tail lamp gives a balanced look to Proton Exora’s overall rear design. LED lights also have a longer life span compared to normal bulbs.

Wraparound bumper - clean and sleek look.

Very Sporty rear spoiler of Proton Exora
The third and second row of Proton Exora can be arranged in so many formation due to its ability to be folded and really carries the name of Multi purpose Vehicle with the function to fit big and many stuff there in Proton Exora. At third row, you will not have to sit like on the floor because it is quite high of seat height. The leg room is good for a person around 178cm high. At front row, no complain at all.. Spacious. Same with the second row seat.
he meter panel is quite simple.

Step inside the Proton Exora and you’ll realise why Proton Exora can easily be your family’s living room on the road. Be greeted by sleek trimmings, high-quality finishes and all-round comfort.

Thoughtfully crafted Proton Exora ergonomic seats for first-class comfort — perfect even for long-distance family road trips.

Boldly designed illuminated black fascia Proton Exora meter display. It gradually lights up when the Proton Exora comes to life.

Proton Exora Design with practicality and convenience in mind. Power window controls are alongside pockets and bottle holders.
The Proton Exora is powered by CAMPRO CPS 1.6 litre engine. Proton Exora is enough to bring this MPV with 7 passenger inside anywhere. Reading so many Proton Exora test drive review recently, they were all satisfy with the performance of this CAMPRO CPS under the hood of Proton Exora. But Proton Exora will not beat the Nissan Grand Livina’s 1.6 CVTC responsive engine due to the weight of Proton Exora is more than Livina eventhough both engine have same 1600 cc displacement. However, the performance of Proton Exora is acceptable and you will have no problem with Proton Exora to bring a body of a quite big MPV. Anyway, this is an MPV, not a racing sports car.

The Proton Exora center panel on dashboard is pretty nice. Looks simple yet elegant. the gated auto gear which only have on high end cars available in Proton Exora is easy to reach.
Proton Exora ,Very spacious MPV. Proton Exora is what you need if you have a big family. Proton Exora really can fit 7 adults. Enough to bring other 6 members of your family happily anywhere. About fuel consumption of Proton Exora? For now there is no data provided by Proton in terms of km/l or litre per 100km. Basically Proton Exora will be slightly fuel consuming than the Proton Gen2 CPS with the same 1.6 litre campro cps engine. But yet still among the best fuel consumption in its class as an MPV.

Info credit to Kereta Info

Michael Jackson Dies at 50

According to multiple reports, Michael Jackson had a heart attack Thursday, June 25 in his home in Los Angeles. Paramedics were called to the house, and they arrived shortly before 12:30 p.m. Michael wasn’t breathing, so the paramedics began performing CPR. He was then taken, by ambulance, to UCLA Medical Center.

Around six p.m. tonight, TMZ confirmed Michael Jackson’s death. They claim Michael s
uffered cardiac arrest, and that the CPR performed on Michael at his home was unsuccessful. Michael’s body was taken to UCLA, where he was pronounced dead:

We’ve just learned Michael Jackson has died. He was 50.

Michael suffered a cardiac arrest earlier this afternoon at his Holmby Hills home and paramedics were unable to revive him. We’re told when paramedics arrived Jackson had no pulse and they never got a pulse back.

A source tells us Jackson was dead when paramedics arrived.

LaToya ran in the hospital sobbing, after Jackson was pronounced dead.

Michael is survived by three children: Michael Joseph Jackson, Jr., Paris Michael Katherine Jackson and Prince “Blanket” Michael Jackson II.

Jackson had 13 number one hits during his solo career.

Michael Jackson was one of the biggest celebrities in the world. He sold millions of albums, entertained millions - if not billions - of people, and inspired countless others. He is survived by his three children: Michael Joseph Jackson Jr., 11, Paris Michael Katherine Jackson, 10, (both with second wife Deborah Rowe), and Prince Michael Jackson II, 6. It was known that he was in poor health in the past few years, but it’s shocking and terribly sad that he died so young. Prayers to his family, his kids, and his fans. Rest in peace, King of Pop.

Farrah Fawcett Dies

Musim celebrity meninggal dunia....

Actress Farrah Fawcett, the Charlie's Angels television star whose big smile and feathered blonde mane made her one of the reigning sex symbols of the 1970s, has died after a long battle with cancer.

She was 62.

Fawcett, first vaulted to stardom by an alluring poster of her in a red swimsuit, was diagnosed with anal cancer in late 2006. It spread to her liver in 2007, proving
resistant to numerous medical treatments in Germany and California.

"After a long and brave battle with cancer, our beloved Farrah has passed away," Fawcett's long-time companion, actor Ryan O'Neal, said in a statement.

"Although this is an extremely difficult time for her family and friends, we take comfort in the beautiful times that we shared with Farrah over the years and the knowledge that her life brought joy to so many people around the world."

Fawcett's death in a Los Angeles hospital came just six weeks after the TV broadcast in May of a video diary she made chronicling her battle with cancer and her final months.

Called Farrah's Story, the documentary was effectively a self-penned obituary by the actress, who was bedridden and had lost her famous hair by the time it was shown.

O'Neal said she had wanted to tell her story on her own terms.

FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES

Fawcett's close friend Alana Stewart, ex-wife of rocker Rod Stewart, told Entertainment Tonight after leaving the hospital on Thursday; "I just lost my best friend. Her death was very peaceful."

Jaclyn Smith, Fawcett's co-star in 1970s television show Charlie's Angels, said: "Farrah had courage, she had strength and she had faith. And now she has peace as she rests with the real angels."

Actress Cheryl Ladd, who replaced Fawcett on Charlie's Angels, said in a statement: "I'm terribly sad about Farrah's passing. She was incredibly brave, and God will be welcoming her with open arms."

John Forsythe, who co-starred with Fawcett in Charlie's Angels, also expressed his sorrow: "Though I did not know her well, Farrah left an indelible mark on me and the public during her one-year reign on Charlie's Angels. She put up a gallant fight against her unforgiving disease, and I send my deepest sympathies and prayers to her family and friends."

Actor Lee Majors, who was married to Fawcett from 1973 to 1982, told celebrity news outlet Entertainment Tonight: "My wife, Faith, and I were saddened to hear of Farrah's passing. She fought a tremendous
battle against a terrible disease. She was an angel on Earth and now an angel forever."
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Oscar winner Robert Duvall, who co-starred with Fawcett in 1997 movie "The Apostle," said she would be missed: "Farrah had an outstanding talent, better than most feature film actresses that I've seen. She
was great to work with and will be missed."

ANGEL CULTURE

Fawcett, born February 2, 1947, in Corpus Christi, Texas, was an art student in college before she began modelling, appearing in shampoo ads.

She started guest-starring on TV in the late 1960s and appeared on the television hit The Six Million Dollar Man after marrying the show's star, Lee Majors, in 1974. The couple divorced in the early 1980s.

Fawcett's career took off thanks to a poster of her posing flirtatiously with a brilliant smile in a red one-piece bathing suit. It sold millions of copies and led to her being cast in 1976 in Charlie's Angels, an action show about three beautiful, strong women private detectives.

As the tanned and glamorous Jill Munroe - part of a trio that included Jaclyn Smith and Kate Jackson - Fawcett was the hit show's most talked-about star. She left Charlie's Angels after only one season but lawsuit settlements brought her back to guest-star in subsequent years.

Fawcett's face appeared on T-shirts, posters and dolls. She came to epitomise the glamorous California lifestyle and inspired a worldwide craze for blown-out, feathered-back hair.

The New York Times once described that hair as "a work of art ... emblematic of women in the first stage of liberation - strong, confident and joyous."

"Her hair needed its own phone line," Charlie's Angels co-star Smith recalled later.

In late 2008, Fawcett shaved her own hair when it began falling out because of her cancer treatments.

SERIOUS ROLES

While Fawcett's early career was marked by lightweight roles, the actress sought to play down her sex symbol image in more challenging dramas in the '80s.

She earned critical acclaim for her performance as a battered wife in 1984's The Burning Bed, for which she received the first of three Emmy nominations.

The off-Broadway play and subsequent film Extremities, in which Fawcett played a woman who takes revenge on a would-be attacker, earned one of her six Golden Globe nominations.

Fawcett posed for Playboy magazine in 1995, the same year she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

She had one son, Redmond, with O'Neal. Redmond O'Neal, now 24, was arrested on several occasions in 2008 and 2009 for heroin and methamphetamine offenses leading to time in jail.

In the last few years, Fawcett appeared frequently on entertainment TV, where she shared details of her battle with cancer.

But she was outraged when news of her deteriorating condition was leaked to tabloid newspapers.

A Los Angeles hospital employee was charged in 2008 with stealing and selling Fawcett's medical records, leading to a new California law imposing tighter controls on medical files and stiffer penalties for privacy breaches.

- Reuters

New flyover in Kuching City

New flyover in Kuching City.... When they want to build flyover at Petrajaya???

KUCHING: Another flyover will be built in Kuching, this time at the Jalan Tun Jugah - Jalan Song junction in the direction of the airport to Kuching and vice versa.

Global Upline Sdn Bhd, who had recently completed the Kenyalang Interchange and the new Airport Road, will undertake the work as continuation of the overall road upgrading along Jalan Tun Jugah. The whole project is estimated to cost RM75 million.

Apart from the flyover, which will be a dual-carriageway, the existing 2.1km stretch of Jalan Tun Jugah between Kenyalang Interchange and Simpang Tiga will be widened to three- and four-lane carriageway in each direction.

Preparatory work will commence middle of this month, while work at the flyover will start immediately after the Rulers Conference in Kuching at the end of July.

Global Upline advisor Tan Sri Ting Pek Khing said the project will take six to eight months to complete.

“(During the construction period) motorists are advised to avoid using Jalan Tun Jugah-Jalan Song intersection, especially during rush hours, otherwise there will be traffic jam.

“Just give us six months, then the cars can (use the) fly over,” he told reporters yesterday, after briefing Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud on the project at Four Points by Sheraton hotel.

Taib, in his brief comments, said he was confident that Global Upline could complete the project in the soonest time possible. He also said the project, once completed, would improve the flow of traffic there.

According to a statement released by Global Upline, Jalan Tun Jugah is the main gateway to Kuching city as it formed part of the Sarawak first trunk road linking the city with other major towns in the state, as well as the gateway to the ‘outside world’ as it is the main access road to the Kuching International Airport (KIA).

Despite the upgrading of Jalan Tun Jugah-Jalan Song junction from the old roundabout into a signalised junction some years ago, it was never able to cope with the traffic volumes as it still experienced long delays in all the four directions during rush hours, it added.

“With the recent completion of Kenyalang Interchange, it becomes very apparent that the section of Jalan Tun Jugah between that Interchange and Jalan Upland is grossly under capacity, especially at its signalised junction with Jalan Song, with traffic jam the norm even during non-rush hours.

“During the morning and rush hours, delays of up to 20 minutes in all four lanes are common. It is obvious that traffic capacity at the junction is incompatible with other sections of the road and needs urgent improvement,” it said.

Although the contract period for the project is 12 months, Global Upline said it would endeavour to complete work in shortest time possible and to minimise any obstruction during the construction period.

On another development, Ting said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak will be in Kuching to declare open the KIA runway and official opening of Four Points by Sheraton hotel next Wednesday (June 17).

Both projects were undertaken by Global Upline.

VERY VERY URGENT - PLEASE READ

THIS IS NO JOKE

IF A PERSON CALLED SIMON ASHTON ( SIMON25@HOTMAIL.CO.UK ) CONTACTS YOU THROUGH EMAIL DON'T OPEN THE MESSAGE. DELETE IT BECAUSE HE OR SHE IS A HACKER!!

TELL EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST BECAUSE IF SOMEBODY ON YOUR LIST ADDS HIM THEN YOU WILL GET HIM ON YOUR LIST. HE WILL FIGURE OUT YOUR ID COMPUTER ADDRESS, SO COPY AND PASTE THIS MESSAGE TO EVERYONE EVEN IF YOU DONT CARE FOR THEM AND FAST BECAUSE IF HE HACKS THEIR EMAIL HE HACKS YOUR MAIL TOO!!!!!...

Anyone-using Internet mail such as Yahoo, Hotmail, AOL and so on. This information arrived this morning, Direct from both Microsoft and Norton. Please send it to everybody you know who has access to the Internet. You may receive an apparently harmless e-mail titled 'Mail Server Report'

If you open either file, a message will appear on your screen saying: 'It is too late now, your life is no longer beautiful.'

Subsequently you will LOSE EVERYTHING IN YOUR PC,
And the person who sent it to you will gain access to your name, e-mail and password.

This is a new virus which started to circulate on Saturday afternoon. AOL has already confirmed the severity, and the anti virus software's are not capable of destroying it .

The virus has been created by a hacker who calls himself 'life owner'.

PLEASE SEND A COPY OF THIS E-MAIL TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS, And ask them to
PASS IT ON IMMEDIATELY!

Mafia War Cheat, Weapons, Armours and Vehicles

Weapons, Armours and Vehicles

Street Thug (lvls 1 - 4)
Beat Up Rival Gangster = .22 Pistol [2, 0 weapon]
Rob a Pimp = 9mm Semi-Automatic [3, 2 weapon]

Associate (lvls 5 - 8)
Collect Protection Money = Butterfly Knife [2, 1 weapon]
Rough Up Dealers = Brass Knuckles [2, 2 weapon]
Take Out a Rogue Cop = .45 Revolver [3, 2 weapon]
Perform a Hit = Tactical Shotgun [3, 2 weapon]

Soldier (lvls 9 - 12)
Destroy Enemy Mob Hideout = C4 [5, 2 weapon]
Kill a Protected Snitch = Stab-Proof Vest [2, 5 armor]
Bust a Made Man Out of Prison = Automatic Rifle [4, 4 weapon], Shamrock Medallion [1, 7 armor]
Fight a Haitian Gang = Firebomb [4, 2 weapon], Semi-Automatic Shotgun [5, 4 weapon]
Clip the Irish Mob's Local Enforcer = Automatic Rifle [4, 4 weapon], Shamrock Medallion [1, 7 armor]
Steal a Tanker Truck = Firebomb [4, 2 weapon], Semi-Automatic Shotgun [5, 4 weapon]

Enforcer (lvls 13 - 17)
Smuggle Across the Border = Armoured Truck [8, 4 vehicle]
Rob an Electronics Store = Computer Set-Up, Concealable Camera, Untraceable Cell Phone (* special *)

Hitman (lvls 18 - 24)
Repel the Yakuza = Grenade Launcher [14, 10 weapon]
Disrupt Rival Smuggling Ring = .50 Caliber Rifle [16, 11 weapon]
Invade Tong-controlled Neighborhood = Armored Car [14, 15 vehicle]
Sell Guns to the Russian Mob = RPG Launcher [20, 12 weapon]
Protect your City against a Rival Family = Bodyguards [8, 25 armor]
Assassinate a Political Figure = Night Vision Goggles [5, 16 armor]
Exterminate a Rival Family = Napalm [25, 9 weapon]
Obtain Compromising Photos = Blackmail Photos (* special *)

Capo (lvls 25 - 34)
Steal an Air Freight Delivery = Prop Plane [5, 20 vehicle]
Run a Biker Gang Out of Town = Harley Davidson "Fat Boy" Motorcycle [18, 6 vehicle]
Steal Bank Records = Illegal Transaction Records (* special *)

Consigliere (lvls 35 - 59)
Influence a Harbor Official = Luxury Yacht [10, 20 vehicle]
Ransom a Businessman's Kids = Porche 911 [20, 14 vehicle]
Fix the Big Game = Bookie's Holdout Pistol [24, 12 weapon]

Underboss (lvls 60 - 99)
Break Into the Armory = Humvee [26, 22 vehicle]
Rip Off the Armenian Mob = AR-15 Assault Rifle [32, 10 weapon]
Take Over an Identity Theft Ring = Falsified Documents [2, 30 armor]

Boss (lvls 100+)
Buy Off a Federal Agent = Federal Agent [15, 25 armor]
Make a Deal with the Mexican Cartel = Private Jet [12, 38 vehicle]
Blackmail the District Attorney = Police Cruiser [22, 28 vehicle]
Shake Down a City Council Member = Armoured Limosine [16, 36 vehicle]

Mafia War, Rewards for mastering the Tiers (Cheat)

Rewards for mastering the Tiers

Street Thug (lvls 1 - 4)
You have mastered all of the level 3 “Street Thug” jobs earning the title of “Master Street Thug”.
A Pistol Bayonet has been added to your inventory, giving you +4% damage dealt in fights.

Associate (lvls 5 - 8)
You have mastered all of the level 3 “Associate” jobs earning the title of “Master Associate”.
A Bugatti has been added to your inventory, giving you -7% damage received in fights.

Soldier (lvls 9 - 12)
You have mastered all of the level 3 “Soldier” jobs earning the title of “Master Soldier”.
A Golden Skull has been added to your inventory, giving you a 30 second reduction on your health regen timer.

Enforcer (lvls 13 - 17)
You have mastered all of the level 3 “Enforcer” jobs earning the title of “Master Enforcer”.
A Money Plate has been added to your inventory, giving you a 5% discount on property purchases.

Hitman (lvls 18 - 24)
You have mastered all of the level 3 “Hitman” jobs earning the title of “Master Hitman”.
A Chainsaw Bayonet has been added to your inventory, giving you a 30 second reduction on your stanima regen timer.

Capo (lvls 25 - 34)
You have mastered all of the level 3 “Capo” jobs earning the title of “Master Capo”.
A State Senator has been added to your inventory, giving you a 5% discount on property repairs.

Consigliere (lvls 35 - 59)
You have mastered all of the level 3 “Consigliere” jobs earning the title of “Master Consigliere”.
A Helicopter has been added to your inventory, giving you a 30 second reduction on your energy regen timer.

Underboss (lvls 60 - 99)
You have mastered all of the level 3 "Underboss" jobs earning the title of "Master Underboss".
A Private Island has been added to your inventory, giving you a 5% bonus on job experience.

Boss (lvls 100+)
You have mastered all of the level 3 "Boss" jobs earning the title of "Master Boss".
A Golden Throne has been added to your inventory, giving you 2x the energy regenerated per regen period

Mafia War, Special Collection Rewards (Cheat)

Special Collection Rewards

Diamond Flush Collection (Street Thug Tier) = +1 Energy
Heart Flush Collection (Associate Tier) = +5 Health
Club Flush Collection (Soldier Tier) = +3 Attack
Poker Chips collection (Soldier Tier) = +2 Attack
Sculptures collection (Soldier Tier) = +3 Defense
Spade Flush Collection (Enforcer Tier) = +2 Stamina
Cigars Collection (Enforcer Tier) = +2 Energy
Ties Collection (Hitman Tier) = +6 Defense
Rings Collection (Hitman Tier) = +5 Defense
Cufflinks Collection (Capo Tier) = +10 Health
Paintings Collection (Capo Tier) = +6 Energy
Horses Collection (Consigliere Tier) = +7 Energy

Info about KWSP

The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) also known in Malay as Kumpulan Wang Simpanan Pekerja.

The Malaysian EPF was formally founded after the enactment of the Employees Provident Fund Act 1991 (Act 452), which grants employees retirement benefits via a body that is intended to manage their savings.As of 31 December, 2006, a total of 11.4 million members have registered to the EPF, of which 5.4 million are active and contributing members, and 416,000 are active employers.

The EPF is intended to help employees from both private and non-pensionable public sectors save a fraction of their salary in a lifetime banking scheme, to be used in an event that the employee is temporarily or no longer fit to work. The EPF primarily applies to retirement, but sickness, disabilities or unemployment are also covered. The EPF also provides a framework for employers to meet legal and moral obligations to their employees.

Legally, the EPF is only obligated to provide 2.5% dividends (as per Section 27 of the Employees Provident Fund Act 1991).

The EPF claims that the lowered dividend is the result of its decision to invest in low-risk fixed revenue instruments, which produce lower returns but maintains the principal value of its members' contributions. This is due to the EPF primarily aimed at providing a stable financial security of its members.

In addition, the EPF further elaborates dividend rates and their performances are calculated and influenced based on the full distribution of net EPF revenue, depending on the return on investments that in turn is based on asset allocation.

The EPF also attributes the declining interest market rate since 1996 to the interest market rate. Because 75% of investment funds are concentrated towards bodies closely linked to trends in the interest market rate, including Malaysian Government Securities, loans or bonds, and money market instruments, low interest rates for the past few years had an adverse effect on returns for EPF investments.

In April 2007, criticism was raised at a proposed amendment of EPF guidelines (the EPF Bill (Amendment) 2007) that cuts monthly contributions of members above 55 years by 50% (6.2% from 11% for employees, and 5.7% from 12% for employers).The change was described as a disadvantage to tens and thousands of members compared to those under the pension scheme as the former is not given free medical treatment after retirement, and was described as a form of discrimination towards senior members. Under the proposal, an employer of foreign workers may also optionally contribute RM5 monthly per head, raising concerns of employers' preferences towards foreign employees. The government responded by claiming that the proposal may be studied, and later states that members can contribute at any amount above the slashed contributed amount.The EPF guideline for employers of foreign workers remains unchanged, citing that the policy has been implemented before in 1998.

Withdrawal

As a retirement plan, money accumulated in an EPF savings can only be withdrawn when members reach 50 years old, during which they may withdraw only 30% of their EPF; members who are 55 years old or older may withdraw all of their EPF.When a member dies beforehand, the EPF fund is withdrawn in favour of a nominated individual.Withdrawals are also possible when a member will emigrate,[11] becomes disabled, or requires essential medical treatment.Members above 55 years old can choose not to withdraw EPF savings immediately and withdraw only later, and, under existing guidelines, employers may continue to contribute 12% of the members' salaries at their own discretion.

Accounts

Effective 1 January, 2007, a member's EPF savings consists of two accounts that vary by their share of savings and withdrawal flexibilities. The first account, dubbed "Account I", stores 70% of the members' monthly contribution, while the second account, dubbed "Account II", stores 30%. Account I restricts withdrawals to the moment the member reaches an age of 55 years old, is incapacitated, leaves the country or passes away. Withdrawal of savings from Account II however, is permitted for down payments or loan settlements for a member's first house, finances for education and medical expenses, investments, and the time when the member reaches 50 years of age.

As of November 30, 2006 , the size of the EPF stood "in excess" of 260 billion ringgit.[2]

[edit] Savings and investments

As of 2007, the EPF functions by procuring at least 11% of each member's monthly salary and storing it in a savings account, while the member's employer is obligated to additionally fund at least 12% of employee's salary to the savings at the same time.[1]

While in savings, a member's EPF may be used as investments for companies deemed profitable and permissible by the organisation, from which dividends are banked to respective members' accounts. Alternately, members may use their EPF savings in their own investments, although such activities are not covered by the EPF and the members are to bear any losses made.[1]

Compared to those declared by several other agenda, the EPF declares an annual dividend on funds collected which has been progressively declining since 1987:

Father Throws 10 Month-Old in Boiling Water on a Dare

Father Throws 10 Month-Old in Boiling Water on a Dare

A 10 month-old Taiwanese girl was severely burned at the hand of her father last week in Taiwan.
Mr. Huang, a 47 year-old alcoholic noodle factory owner, had beenout all night drinking with some friends. When he returned home, veryintoxicated, his girlfriend and the baby’s mother, Ms. Lin, wasextremely angry and they began to argue.




Lin was holding their baby in her arms and at one point in theargument, dared Huang to throw their daughter into a gigantic wok ofboiling water.
Huang, furious and angry, jumped over and snatched his daughter from Lin and dumped her into the boiling water.



Lin in shock, managed to pull the baby out of the boiling water, but it was too late as 90% of the babies body was scalded.
She tried to cool the baby by running cold water on her and removingher clothing, but it only added to the babies pain as parts of her skinfell off.
Lin ran with the baby to her house, where her brother rushed them to the hospital.





A doctor described the baby’s pain as ‘being slashed by a thousand knives’, and almost 10 times worse than labor pains.
When the police arrived at the noodle factory to arrest Huang, theyfound him standing there cooking noodles as if nothing had occured.
Huang later told the police that he “didn’t mean to put the baby inthe boiling water. I really regret what I did after having a drop toomuch.’
Initially the baby’s condition looked to be improving, but Monday night, she took a turn for the worse.


3 days later, the 10 month-old girl died from multiple organ failure.“We respected the mother’s wish not to defibrillate or performcardiopulmonary resuscitation and we gave the baby all the medicationwe could, including antibiotics. Unfortunately, the girl left us at10:05am,” Changhua Christian Hospital emergency room supervisor ChouChih-chung (周志中 said.
“It was just too painful for her,” the mother said.

No More, Perodua Kancil ....

RAWANG, May 4 — Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua (Perodua) is preparing to phase out its first and oldest model, Kancil, next month after 16 years on the road.

Managing Director Datuk Syed Abdull Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar said Perodua would stop production of the popular 660cc Kancil and would replace it with the Viva.

“Right now we are in the final month of the production of the Kancil. After 16 years (and) after 750,000 Kancils on the road, we are ready to phase it out.”

“We would probably launch the Viva 660 basic to replace the Kancil around July,” he told Bernama in an interview recently at the manufacturing plant here.

The Kancil was the first model manufactured by Perodua, introduced shortly after the company’s incorporation in 1994.

The first batch of Kancils was launched on August 29, 1994, with a manufacturing capacity of 45,000 units per annum.

“For April this year, almost 1,000 units of the Kancil have been registered and we are now down to the final 1,000 to be sold in May or early June the latest”, he said.

Since its maiden launch, the Kancil has been through several processes of modifications, upgrades and facelifts.

As for the basic Viva, he said the price would be cheaper compared to the current Viva.

Perodua expects to sell a RM25,000 entry level car.

Currently, he said the cheapest Viva is about RM28,000.

“We are doing all these to prepare for our big launch in November of our Multi-Purpose Vehicle. Our mass production will start sometime end-September. So we do this in preparing for this new line for the MPV,” Syed Abdull said.

The new Perodua MPV is internally codenamed Perodua D46T and is expected to be priced between RM60,000 and RM65,000, he said.

The new Perodua D46T will be based on the Toyota Passo Sette, also known as the Daihatsu Boon Luminas.

It measures 4,180mm long, 1,695mm wide and is 1,620mm tall, with a long 2,750mm wheelbase to maximise the interior space (2,550mm long). – Bernama

Sin Chew Daily : Bye Bye 30%

Sin Chew Daily : Bye Bye 30%

Farewell, 30%!
Posted by admin
Tuesday, 28 April 2009 21:50

Without this "30%," perhaps Malaysian companies could emerge more energetic, the ecomomy could grow faster, the Malays could be more competitive, and non-Malays could be less dejected and unsatisfied.

By TAY TIAN YAN/Translated by CHONG CIEW JU/Sin Chew Daily

Don't know since when Malaysia has become a country of "30%."

To set up a company, we must have 30% bumiputra equity; to list a company on the stock market, we must have 30% bumiputra equity; and to bid for a government project, we also must have 30% bumiputra equity.

All these are done in the name of the New Economic Policy (NEP).

Having said that, "reserved 30% bumiputra equity" has never actually been gazetted in the 1971 New Economic Policy.

The objectives of the NEP were: to eliminate poverty regardless of race; and to restructure the society and do away with the identification of race according to economic activity.

There is no problem with the policy itself, and the guiding principle is absolutely correct.

But, in the executive orders that follow, the very crude '30%" has been universally employed to achieve the targets of NEP.

Government officials hold dearly to the "30%" to slice up the economy. They pick up their parangs, axes and electric saws and chop up the companies into pieces.

Politicians and those with good relations with the government are fast grabbing this "30%" bounty. Without having to put in the slightest effort or making any real contribution at all, they unashamedly share the 30% benefits.

"Without the bondage of this "30%," Malaysia could absolutely be a more united, harmonious and progressive country."
As such, many companies which are vibrant, innovative and with great prospects are either nibbed in the bud or left struggling for mere survival.

In order to achieve the 30% target, the country has paid a hefty price over the past few decades.

Many local and foreign investors would rather dump their money elsewhere than to have their 30% plundered. Many companies choose not to expand their businesses lest they are put into the restructuring list, while others have to reluctantly swallow the 30% equity arrangement, making compromises in their company equity, management and vibrancy.

The majority of the Malay community has not really benefited from the 30% bumiputra equity policy, which benifits only a handful of privileged individuals, allowing these privileged few to take the lion's share of the benefits. This has further widened the gap between the haves and haves-not within the Malay community itself while creating entrenched class confrontation.

Without this "30%," perhaps Malaysian companies could emerge more energetic, the ecomomy could grow faster, the Malays could be more competitive, and non-Malays could be less dejected and unsatisfied.

Without the bondage of this "30%," Malaysia could absolutely be a more united, harmonious and progressive country.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has started to lift this bondage which has enslaved Malaysians for nearly four decades, allowing Malaysians to feel instantly invigorated and relieved.

But to be truly emancipated, more "30%" needs to be lifted. Besides, we must also keep an eye on non-compliance in our bureaucratic system as well as backlash from the vested interests.

Father tries to cash in on daughter's fame

Father tries to cash in on daughter's fame
By Mazher Mahmood, 19/04/2009

THE poverty-stricken father of Slumdog Millionaire child star Rubina Ali plans to become a millionaire himself-by SELLING his nine-year-old daughter.

In a bid to escape India's real-life slums, Rafiq Qureshi put angel-faced darling of the Oscars Rubina up for adoption, demanding millions of rupees worth £200,000.


As he offered the shocking deal to the News of the World's undercover fake sheik this week, Rafiq declared: "I have to consider what's best for me, my family and Rubina's future."

Rafiq tried to blame Hollywood bosses for forcing him to put his daughter up for SALE.

As he tried to fix the illegal adoption deal, real-life slum dweller Rafiq declared: "We've got nothing out of this film."

Then, almost embarrassed to speak it out loud, he whispered to an accomplice the price tag he has put on his innocent young daughter: "It's £200,000!"

That was an astonishing FOURFOLD increase on his opening demand. But Rafiq's equally demanding brother Mohiuddin insisted: "The child is special now. This is NOT an ordinary child. This is an Oscar child!"

BUY MY DAUGHTER: Father Rafiq (centre) and uncle Rajan More (left) pose with Rubina and our undercover team
Dad Rafiq is desperate to cash in on their nine-year-old's success in the blockbuster film by selling her to the highest bidder

He sees it as his family's escape route from the notorious Bandra slum sprawl of Mumbai.

Rafiq revealed his scheme to undercover News of the World reporters posing as a wealthy family from Dubai.

Slumdog Millionaire star Rubina Ali's dad puts his daughter up for sale

Riches
We travelled to Mumbai to expose the illegal sale after a tip-off from a concerned close family friend and former neighbour.

Shockingly, this sort of transaction is far from unusual in an impoverished nation where human life comes cheap and children are often treated as a commodity.

Rubina won the hearts of film-lovers around the world playing young Latika in British director Danny Boyle's movie that picked up eight Oscars and a pile of other glittering awards. It tells the rags to riches story of a young man from the slums who wins the Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

Filmed in Mumbai's seething pauper ghetto it depicts starkly true scenes of poverty and child cruelty, where young orphans are blinded and crippled by Fagin-like thugs and forced to beg on the streets. And with a staggering 11 million children abandoned in India every year, there is no shortage of young prey.

Our informant, now a city tour guide, told us: "Rubina's family are furious that despite the film doing so well and their pretty daughter becoming so famous, they are still living in such rough conditions.

"They were approached by one wealthy Middle Eastern family who saw their plight in an item on Al Jazeera TV. The couple expressed an interest in adopting young Rubina and her parents' eyes lit up.

"Dad Rafiq is streetwise and knows that soon his daughter's success will be forgotten and her moment of fame will be over. He has a family to feed and simply can't afford it. He is keen to find a rich family to bring up Rubina but only if they are willing to help the whole family to get out of the slums.

"The Middle East family were moved to tears by the plight of the young orphans shown in the film and fell in love with Rubina.

"Just as Western stars like Madonna do, they want to adopt children from poor areas and give them a better life.

"This family wanted to take Rubina abroad. They agreed to come to Mumbai to discuss the adoption in May.

"But the approach has made Rafiq very greedy and he has said that he will consider the highest offer for his child. But they realise that the money will soon stop coming in and Rafiq is open to all offers."

Our investigator made contact with Rafiq and said we had heard he was considering having Rubina adopted. He told Rafiq he was acting for a wealthy Arab sheik who wanted to take the youngster to live with him 2,000 miles away in Dubai.

Rafiq replied: "Yes, we are considering Rubina's future.

SECRET SHAME: Rubina Ali is held aloft at Mumbai celebrations by dad now trying to sell her
"Why don't you speak to my brother-in-law, Rajan, and he will discuss it with you? I will ask him to call you."

After contacting us, Rubina's uncle Rajan More - who speaks good English - confirmed: "Yes, we are interested in securing our girl's future.

"Rubina's life is miserable and she lives here with her stepmother. Most of the time she stays with me because she is not happy at her parents' home.

"Obviously if you wanted to adopt we could discuss this, but her parents would also expect some proper compensation in return. We are talking of around £50,000 for this to happen." In another phone call, father Rafiq coolly confirmed: "Whatever you have discussed with Rajan, I agree with. Whatever money is agreed by Rajan, I will accept.

"We can discuss everything about this deal when we meet. There's a lot of interest in Rubina, she's become very famous."

Without querying the background, intentions, or even the names of Rubina's prospective new parents, Rafiq arranged to meet us.

Purifying Charity (Zakat)

Conditions for Obligation

* Free, adult, sane Muslims.

* Possession of Nisab, and the passage of one, uninterrupted lunar year over it (uninterrupted in the sense that at no point during that period does the amount of money drop to zero. However, if it drops below the Nisab without disappearing completely, the year is not considered to be interrupted as long as the amount is over the Nisab at the period-end.)

* Zakat is due on : gold, silver, cash, gold or silver jewelry, produce, livestock, trade-goods.

* Non-zakatable items : house one lives in, cars one uses, clothes one wears, household furniture, weapons one uses, jewels or other jewelry besides gold and silver unless acquired for trade, interest (riba) - it must be disposed of.


Zakat on Gold, Silver and Cash

* Nisab for gold is 20 mithqal = 2.81 troy oz.= 87.48g

* Nisab for silver is 200 dirhams = 19.69 troy oz = 612.36g (~$)

* 2.5% on the amount present at lunar year-end.

* Gold and silver jewelry is zakatable, as are gold and silver utensils.

* Loans to others are zakatable provided they are guaranteed.


Zakat on Trade-Goods

* Zakat due on any trade-goods (including raw materials) if their value reaches the nisab value of gold or silver. The year need not be uninterrupted.

* Value of goods is added to value of gold and silver for purposes of nisab.

* Shares and bonds are zakatable on the income from investment if the company deals with land and immovable property the income and current share-price in other cases

* Machinery, land, fixtures and fittings are exempt fom zakat.

Zakat on Other Items
Produce: 10%
Animals.


Payment of Zakat
- Intention is essetial

May only be given to the following categories:

* faqir : poor; one who has some money, but not sufficient for his basic needs

* miskin : destitute; one who has nothing

* `amil `alayha : zakat collector, appointed by the Caliph

* mu'allafah qulubuhum : 'those whose hearts are to be reconciled'

* fi'r-riqab : to slaves to purchase their freedom

* gharim : one in debt for a legitimate reason

* fi sabilillah : in the path of Allah = mujaahidin.

* ibnu's-sabil : wayfarer; one stranded away from home, with no money available to him.

May be given to any or all of these categories. It is preferred to give to one's needy relatives for whom one is not financially responsible Islamically. It is disliked to give too much or too little to any one individual.

May not be given to:

* non-Muslims

* well-off or rich people

* father, grandfather, etc.

* son, grandson, etc.

* wife or husband

* Banu Hashim (family of the Prophet-saw) and their freed slaves

* an employee or laborer as wages

* an institution

It is disliked to transfer zakat funds to another country, unless there is a legitimate need.


Etiquettes of Paying Zakat


1. Understand the rationale
- test of love for Allah
- ridding oneself of miserliness
- thankfulness to Allah

2. Pay it in secret, preferably.

3. Do not ruin it by reminder and injury.

4. Do not consider it to be big.

5. Spend the best of your wealth.

6. Seek out the most pious, knowledgeable and dignified people