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With lofty expectations from shipowners on prices when moving raw commodities; as costs would remain actively strong. Over the coming months, despite concerns facing economic growth and trades globally. Freight rates for shipping bulk industrial goods have soared in comparison to last five years. The recent upsurge in price is notably a boost for Brazil’s recommencement of iron ore exports.
The Baltic Dry Index, which measures the cost of moving supplies like iron ore, grain, and coal, is rising at levels previously reached in January 2014. While, owners of large shipments in the long-falling sector say the costs of moving raw materials in recent months to China from South America have tripled.
Shipping brokers in Asia and Europe noted that Brazil-based producer Vale SA is responsible for the operations and handling of Brazilian mines. The Brazilian mines are pushing out iron ore after varieties of fatal accidents that shut down the sites for months. Also noted by the Shipping brokers in Asia and Europe is the brisk demand of iron ore from China, the world’s largest commodities importer.
Norwegian broker, Fearnleys, suggested in a report, “Pacific activities are steady but modest”. With Vale’s return on the China/Brazil run joined with noticeably growing Trans-Atlantic volumes compose as the key drivers. Fearnleys also alleged that several ships turned in for maintenance in the dry docks. In the coming weeks, these numbers are projected to be back with the current climate maintained, which offers additional support.
A Singapore based broker noted Capesize vessels (largest dry-bulk vessels), now cost above $30,000 for daily usage. Which usually on the Brazil/China passage, is more than 150% rise (below $10,000 daily) in recent weeks. Dependent on the shipping path, some large Ships can command as high as $60,000 daily.
The Singapore broker also pointed out that notably this year, the Vale’s prices are pretty good. And with importers rerouting there, they are still not enough ships to sustain the demand.
Hamish Norton, President of Star Bulk Carriers, laid out his expectations of 50 days with practically failsafe high rates following the Brazilians production upsurge. Summer season is generally sluggish for dry-bulk shippers as operators rely on large Asian importers to restock their iron ore and coal supplies.
Some ship operators still maintain strong believe that current demands are likely to dwindle before September due to China’s slow economy in 2019. Also, the continuous trade dispute between China and the United States could affect the American soybean exportations.
Shipping firms also maintain expectations in terms of capacity increase for this period. The growth is down to operators recalling vessels into service that is currently going under retrofitting to meet new guidelines on emissions.


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SFA 'not aware' of evidence COVID-19 virus can be transmitted to humans via food, equipment or food packaging
SINGAPORE: The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) on Friday (Aug 14) said it was not aware of any evidence that suggested the COVID-19 virus could be transmitted to humans via food, equipment or food packaging.
The agency added that this was in line with the current state of knowledge across scientific communities and public health authorities worldwide, in response to CNA’s queries after several reports of the novel coronavirus being found on frozen food and on packaging in China.
SFA said it was monitoring developments closely and would “take the necessary actions to safeguard food safety in Singapore”.
It previously stated similar views in June amid reports that the novel coronavirus was found on chopping boards used for salmon at Beijing's Xinfadi market.
There have been at least three instances of the novel coronavirus being detected on frozen food or its packaging in China in the past week.
A sample of frozen chicken wings imported into Shenzhen from Brazil had tested positive for the novel coronavirus, after a city in Anhui province found the same virus on the packaging for shrimps from Ecuador.
Before that, authorities in China found the novel coronavirus on the packaging of imported frozen seafood that arrived in Yantai, a port city in Shandong, from Dalian.
The World Health Organization on Thursday downplayed the risk of the virus entering the food chain.
Viruses can survive up to two years at temperatures of minus 20 degrees Celsius, but scientists and officials say there is no strong evidence so far the novel coronavirus can spread via frozen food.
"People should not fear food, food packaging or delivery of food," the World Health Organization's head of emergencies programme Mike Ryan told a briefing.
"There is no evidence that food or the food chain is participating in transmission of this virus. And people should feel comfortable and safe."
ENVIRONMENT CAN BE "EASILY CONTAMINATED" WITH COVID-19 VIRUS: SFA
SFA noted however, the environment people interact with can be “easily contaminated” with the COVID-19 virus.
“In general, contact with food or food packaging and equipment is no different from contact with other non-food packaging and the environment,” it said, referring to common touch surfaces such as lift buttons and door knobs.
“As such, SFA continues to emphasise the importance of good public and personal hygiene practices to uphold a high level of public health standards in Singapore," it said, outlining several measures people could adopt.
- Seeking medical attention promptly and staying home if unwell
- Washing hands with soap and water regularly, including before eating and after going to the toilet
- Cooking food thoroughly before eating
- Avoid touching your face with your hands
- Covering mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and throwing the tissue away into a bin immediately
- Not engaging in any food handling/preparation if unwell
- Not sharing food/drinks with others

domain: news


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India has abstained from voting against the proposal of re-opening the international trade of Ivory in the conference of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
India’s decision has surprised many considering the importance of the elephants in the country. Besides adding to the animal habitat of the country, elephants are also an integral part of several cultures in the country. India has historically defended the rights of an animal, as the domestic trade of ivory was banned in India in 1986.
The international trade of elephants was banned in 1989. The decision was made when the African elephants were put in CITES Appendix 1. Animal species threatened with extinction are categorised in Appendix 1.
Almost a decade later, African elephants in Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia were moved to Appendix 2. This category suggests that the animals here are not necessarily on the verge of extinction, but their trade must be kept under check.
Following this change in the trend of the population, CITES allowed these three countries along with South Africa to conduct one-time sales of ivory, which was collected after the natural death of the animal and poacher seizures in 1999 and 2008.
The supporters of the Ivory trade, which included Namibia and several South African countries, stated that the elephant population of their countries had increased, and thus advocated for the international trade of ivory. The countries stated that the revenue garnered from the same could be used for the conservation of the animals.
However, those opposing the trade stated that elephant poaching was seen when CITES allowed one-time sales in 1999 and 2008.
For the 1st time in decades, India abstained from a vote seeking the commercial sale of African elephant tusks. This comes after speculation that Namibia allegedly asked for India’s support to withdraw the ivory trade ban in exchange for the 8 cheetahs. pic.twitter.com/blUTabaK5F
— Sanitary Panels (@sanitarypanels) November 26, 2022
Since the 1980s, India has been an opponent of the international trade of ivory. Indian capital New Delhi hosted the CoP3 in 1981, wherein India designed the CITES logo, with an elephant.
In the 1990s, India even opposed the down-listing of the elephant population from appendix 1 to appendix 2 in several South African countries.
As far as India’s abstention against voting for the ivory trade is concerned, it has been speculated that Namibia sought India’s support in this matter. Several reports are also linking the exchange of the 8 cheetahs, which were brought to India in September 2022.


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The blockchain revolution has the potential to transform our lives. By enabling organizations and institutions to transact with less friction and more trust, blockchain technologies will usher in the next era of the Internet.
It is being said that blockchain will do for transactions what the internet did for information. Right now, blockchain is helping reshape industries in domains as varied as finance, healthcare, government, retail and CPG. How do you prepare for a future with blockchain?
You can start by attending the NYC Blockchain Summit 2017 on Tuesday, February 28. This half-day executive event is designed to get you up to speed on the fundamentals of blockchain. You will have the opportunity to:
News of the first successfully completed vaccine trial has the potential to bring relief to billions of people around the world. But as encouraging as trials may be, it is extremely important to note that a vaccine cannot be as effective if it is not effectively distributed and trusted by the public. To their credit, […]
Every industry experiences a productivity hit when discrepancies arise around financial settlements. In the supply chain, for example, processes that may even be part of an automated procure-to-pay workstream grind to a halt when an invoice and the related goods received documentation don’t match up. Even data-driven industries like telecommunications are affected, with hundreds of […]
Blockchain struck society like a lightning storm on the plains. Fast and sudden. Over 10 years ago, a whitepaper was produced unveiling the technology and within seven years, families were discussing the topic over dinner, state legislators were passing bills, and CEOs were being asked for a “blockchain plan” by their Board. Some industries moved […]


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First look at Thunderbolt peripherals on the horizon
Peripherals exploiting Intel's new high-speed Thunderbolt connection have started to emerge
By Steven Borden-Weill | Network World US | Published: 16:00, 09 August 2011
Intel's new Thunderbolt I/O technology, which boasts up to 10Gbps connectivity between host machines like Apple MacBook Pros and peripherals, such as storage devices, has started to make its way into commercial products.
The technology, designed to provide better support for audio and video than earlier interconnect technologies, was first announced in 2009. In addition to Apple, which helped Intel develop Thunderbolt, Sony and other computer makers are expected to support the speedy interconnect.


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True-blue Aussie patriot Trevor Simpson says he is disgusted at Woolworths’ decision to de-range Australia Day merchandise, confirming he’ll now buy his cheap imported Chinese-made plastic genuine Australian flag at a German-owned supermarket store instead.
“Frankly it’s unAustralian,” Simpson said, furiously throwing a fridge-full of Woolworth’s food in the bin in protest. “When I celebrate Australia’s sacred day it’s my goddam right to do it while holding a piece of cheap merchandise made in a soulless factory in Shenzhen, distributed via a global system of shipping networks and sold to me by the Fresh Food People”.
He said he supported Peter Dutton’s push to boycott the supermarket chain. “Australia has become a bunch of woke lefty Communists. If a Government can’t dictate what a privately-owned supermarket sells in its stores, then I don’t know what this country stands for anymore”.


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Ad Age 2022 Marketers of the Year
Walmart leads our annual list of the best marketers of the year
In a year marked by economic anxiety, the best-performing brands calmly persevered—and even thrived—amid rising inflation and consumer spending pullbacks. Ad Age’s 2022 Marketers of the Year highlights some of the marketers that rose to the top, while offering marketing lessons for building consumer loyalty and breaking through into pop culture in tumultuous times.
The list is topped by Walmart, which beat even the most discount-focused competition with relentless marketing and merchandising innovation. McDonald’s gave a master class on how to permeate pop culture, while playing to its strengths and putting a new twist on the classics, such as marketing Happy Meals to adults. Mastercard showed how sound, taste and smell can be a vital part of the marketing mix, while Airbnb evolved to become a first stop for travel planning, rather than an afterthought.
The list was chosen by a team of Ad Age reporters and editors based on factors that include business results driven by breakthrough advertising and smart strategic thinking.
Read on for more lessons, including from United, which showed how purpose marketing can be more than a buzzword; and Liquid Death, whose unorthodox branding is an inspiration to agencies and marketers alike. To quote Lizzo, who also made the list, these companies had a 2022 that was good as hell.


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Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba created about 40.82 million jobs last year via its expansive retail ecosystem, up 10.9 per cent year-on-year, a recent report showed.
The company’s various e-commerce platforms, including Taobao and Tmall, provided about 15.58 million jobs for online retailers in 2018, according to a report from Renmin University of China.
Apparel and textiles, daily necessities and home appliances were the top three retail items that offered the most jobs.
Alibaba’s booming online retail service also helped boost demand for professionals in upstream and downstream sectors like R&D, design, manufacturing and logistics, totalling about 25.24 million jobs.
In a bid to help disadvantaged groups find jobs, the company provided training programmes through its learning platform “Taobao University”.
Yang Weiguo, a professor with Renmin University who led the research, said e-commerce platforms including Alibaba have played an important role in stabilising and boosting employment. |– China Daily
Japan’s FTC starts probe into shopping websites
The Fair Trade Commission in Japan has launched an investigation on major online shopping mall operators for any abuse of their advantageous positions over sellers using their platforms.
The commission will look into trade practices between the platform and seller sides through an online questionnaire of sellers on online malls. It also plans to hold hearings with both sides, if necessary. Companies subject to the investigation include Amazon Japan GK, a local unit of US e-commerce giant Amazon.com Inc, as well as Rakuten Inc and Yahoo Japan Corp.
The investigation is part of the Japanese antitrust watchdog’s broader probe of global information technology giants including Google Inc, Amazon.com, Facebook Inc and Apple Inc.
The watchdog is also conducting a survey of developers of apps for Google, Apple and other smartphones.
The antimonopoly law prohibits the abuse of advantageous positions in trade relations. However, a survey by the industry ministry last autumn revealed that more than 80 per cent of small businesses selling products on online malls have experienced unilateral contract changes detrimental to their interests.
Amazon Japan is facing criticism over its recently revealed plan to demand sellers on its website provide customers with reward points worth at least 1 per cent of purchases. – The Yomiuri Shimbun
Published : Jul 01, 2022
Published : March 04, 2019
By : Asia News Network


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Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, who’s pushing legislation to outlaw the sales of used cars with unrepaired defects, said disclosure isn’t enough.
“Disclosure is really no substitute for repair,” Blumenthal said. “The dealers who say disclosure is a substitute for repairs ignore the plain fact that unsafe vehicles are a menace. Not only to passengers and drivers, but to other motorists.”
AutoNation said it fully complies with all laws and regulations regarding recalls and said any suggestion that it is “knowingly or deliberately seeking to mislead consumers is entirely unfounded.”


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In the year since this blog post was first published, Lululemon’s inaccurate and potentially dangerous sunscreen advice continues to be printed on the bags that they hand out every day to customers. Lululemon WAS informed by the American Academy of Dermatology last year that its ‘sunscreen is dangerous’ quote printed on all its bags was spreading misinformation, and the company admitted that the message is “not research based” . If you are concerned about your risk of skin cancer and the potentially dangerous medical information Lululemon continues to dispense, email their ‘guest education center’ at firstname.lastname@example.org to voice your concerns. Pass this along!
The popular yoga and lifestyle wear retailer, Lululemon, has a manifesto, and it’s printed on every one of their bags. You’ve likely seen these bags or re-used them yourself! They make terrific totes and lunch bags. According to their website, Lululemon is “passionate about sweating every day and we want the world to know it. Breathing deeply, drinking water and getting outside also top the list of things we can’t live without. Get to know our manifesto and learn a little more about what lights our fire.” Unfortunately, Lululemon’s newest manifesto, which is currently printed on their bags, includes inaccurate warnings and potential misinformation about sunscreens!
Lululemon’s most recently-released manifesto reads: “Sunscreen absorbed into the skin might be worse for you than sunshine.”
It’s unusual for a major retailer to be offering medical advice, and it does a disservice to their clients who might be harmed by such advice! Business Insider has asked Lululemon to comment on this sunscreen advice, and they seemed to stand by their manifesto, stating, “The manifesto design that goes on our bags is a collection of statements that are ever-evolving and intended to spark conversation that is relevant at the time.”
Skin cancer remains the most common form of cancer in the United States, and we dermatologists at SkinCare Physicians treat patients for this disfiguring and potentially deadly form of cancer every day. And it has been clearly shown that regular sunscreen use and regular skin examinations remain the very best way to help lower skin cancer rates.
When used appropriately on the skin, there is no evidence that the ingredients in sunscreens are harmful. This holds true even for the class of sunscreen ingredients, like oxybenzone, about which concerns as endocrine disruptors have been raised. For patients who are worried about the chemicals in sunscreens, there are resources such as those published by the Environmental Working Group that can guide them in choosing among the many excellent sunscreens that are available.
Concerns that sunscreen may cause Vitamin D deficiency should not stop patients from applying sunscreens. According to the Institute of Medicine’s 2011 report on Vitamin D and calcium intake, most Americans and Canadians get plenty of Vitamin D from dietary sources, and blood levels among most are within the normal range. And fair-skinned individuals absorb maximal Vitamin D after just 15 minutes of sun exposure: sunscreens aren’t likely to have a great impact on that!
Bottom line: sunscreens can prevent skin cancer and protect against sun damage. If you have questions or concerns about skin cancer prevention, speak with your dermatologist at SkinCare Physicians rather than relying on advice on a yoga retailer’s bag!
Editor’s note: This blog was originally published on July 17, 2014.
Photo Source: lululemon.com


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Suggested Soundtrack: Glen Campbell - Rhinestone Cowboy
In an unusual twist that could be mistaken for a fashion faux pas, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is waving a red flag at rhinestone steering wheel decorations. 🚩
What's the Risk?
Accessorizing your steering wheel with stick-on rhinestones might elevate your interior's style. Still, it also boosts the risk of injury. In a collision, these glamorous decals can detach and take flight, potentially causing serious harm.
A Real Concern
This isn't hypothetical—adorned airbags have already turned into inadvertent projectile launchers, with one driver suffering vision loss from an airborne gem.
We’re slightly surprised the government needs to step in and say this. Next, NASA will announce that Wal-Mart bags should not be used as pillowcases despite their soothing scronchy sound.


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In an effort to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment, Pennsylvania has recently implemented a plastic bag ban. This ban has sparked debates and raised questions about its impact on businesses and consumers. Here is everything you need to know about the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania.
The plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania prohibits the distribution of single-use plastic bags by most stores, including grocery stores, convenience stores, and retail establishments. However, there are exceptions to the ban, such as bags used for fruits, vegetables, or bulk items, as well as bags used for prescription medication or newspapers.
Under the new law, consumers are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags when shopping. This not only helps reduce plastic waste but also saves money in the long run, as many stores charge a fee for paper bags as an alternative to plastic.
While the ban aims to protect the environment, it has raised concerns among some businesses and consumers. Critics argue that the ban will lead to job losses in the plastic bag manufacturing industry and inconvenience for consumers who rely on plastic bags for various purposes. However, supporters of the ban emphasize the importance of prioritizing the health of our planet and finding sustainable alternatives to plastic bags.
Ultimately, the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania is a step towards a greener future. It encourages individuals to be more aware of their consumption habits and make conscious choices that positively impact the environment. By embracing reusable bags and reducing our reliance on single-use plastics, we can help create a cleaner and healthier state for generations to come.
- Overview of the Plastic Bag Ban in Pennsylvania
- Key points to know about the plastic bag ban:
- Understanding the Plastic Bag Ban
- What is the Plastic Bag Ban?
- Why is the Plastic Bag Ban Important?
- Impact on Businesses and Consumers
- Environmental Benefits of the Ban
- Alternatives to Plastic Bags
- Implementation and Enforcement
- State Government Role
- Local Municipality Role
- Questions and answers:
- What is the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania?
- When did the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania come into effect?
- Why was the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania implemented?
- How will the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania affect retailers?
- Are there any exceptions to the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania?
Overview of the Plastic Bag Ban in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania recently implemented a statewide ban on single-use plastic bags, joining a growing list of states and cities taking steps to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment. The ban on plastic bags went into effect on July 1, 2021, and applies to all retailers across the state.
This ban is part of a larger effort to encourage the use of reusable bags and reduce the consumption of single-use plastics. The aim is to reduce pollution, preserve natural resources, and promote a more sustainable future.
Key points to know about the plastic bag ban:
- Prohibition: The ban prohibits all retailers in Pennsylvania from providing single-use plastic bags to customers at the checkout. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, and other retail establishments.
- Alternatives: Retailers are encouraged to offer reusable bags or provide options like paper bags, but they may charge a fee for these alternatives.
- Exemptions: The ban does not apply to bags used for bulk items, perishable foods, or prescriptions. It also does not apply to bags used for newspapers, dry cleaning, or other similar products.
- Education and Outreach: The state is undertaking efforts to educate consumers and retailers about the ban and the importance of using reusable bags. This includes providing resources and information on alternative options.
- Enforcement: Penalties may be imposed on retailers who fail to comply with the ban. However, the focus is on education and voluntary compliance during the initial phase of implementation.
The plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania is a significant step towards reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices. By encouraging the use of reusable bags and reducing reliance on single-use plastics, the state aims to protect the environment and create a cleaner future for Pennsylvania.
Understanding the Plastic Bag Ban
In an effort to reduce plastic waste and promote environmental sustainability, Pennsylvania is implementing a ban on single-use plastic bags. This ban aims to encourage consumers to adopt more eco-friendly alternatives and reduce the reliance on plastic bags.
What is the Plastic Bag Ban?
The plastic bag ban is a statewide policy that prohibits the distribution of single-use plastic bags by retailers. Retailers are now required to offer more sustainable options, such as reusable bags or paper bags, for customers to carry their purchases.
Why is the Plastic Bag Ban Important?
The plastic bag ban is important because it helps to reduce plastic pollution and protect the environment. Single-use plastic bags are a significant contributor to plastic waste and often end up in landfills or as litter in waterways, causing harm to wildlife and ecosystems. By implementing this ban, Pennsylvania is taking a proactive step towards a cleaner and greener future.
|Benefits of the Plastic Bag Ban
While there may be challenges associated with the plastic bag ban, the benefits for the environment and future generations outweigh them. As consumers, we can support this ban by opting for reusable bags or other sustainable options when shopping and encouraging others to do the same. Together, we can make a positive impact on our planet.
Impact on Businesses and Consumers
The plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania will have a significant impact on both businesses and consumers. Businesses that rely on plastic bags for packaging and transportation will need to find alternative solutions. This may involve investing in more sustainable options such as paper or reusable bags.
While this transition may initially involve some costs for businesses, it also presents an opportunity for them to demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability. By offering reusable bags or encouraging customers to bring their own, businesses can align themselves with the growing trend of eco-conscious consumers.
For consumers, the plastic bag ban will require a change in behavior. They will need to remember to bring reusable bags with them when shopping or opt for alternative packaging options. This may take some adjustment but can significantly reduce plastic waste and have a positive environmental impact.
Consumer education will be key in ensuring a successful transition. Businesses can help by providing information on the plastic bag ban, offering incentives for using reusable bags, and assisting customers in understanding the environmental benefits of the ban.
|Impact on Businesses
|Impact on Consumers
|Investing in alternative packaging solutions
|Reminding to bring reusable bags when shopping
|Showcasing commitment to sustainability
|Adapting to alternative packaging options
|Aligning with eco-conscious consumers
|Reducing plastic waste
|Providing consumer education
|Understanding environmental benefits
Environmental Benefits of the Ban
The plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania has several significant environmental benefits. One of the main advantages is the reduction of plastic pollution in our environment. Plastic bags are one of the most common types of litter found in our streets, parks, and water bodies. They are not biodegradable and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, causing harm to wildlife.
By banning plastic bags, Pennsylvania can significantly decrease the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and natural habitats. This reduction in plastic pollution will help protect our ecosystems and preserve biodiversity. It will also prevent the release of harmful chemicals and microplastics into the environment, which can have long-term implications for human health.
Another significant environmental benefit of the ban is the conservation of non-renewable resources. Plastic bags are made from fossil fuels, mainly petroleum and natural gas. By reducing their consumption, we can decrease our reliance on these limited resources and promote a more sustainable and circular economy.
Furthermore, the ban encourages the adoption of alternative and eco-friendly packaging materials. Businesses and consumers will be encouraged to use reusable bags, paper bags, or compostable bags instead of single-use plastic bags. These alternatives have a lower environmental impact, as they are often made from renewable resources and can be recycled or composted.
Overall, the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania brings several environmental benefits, including the reduction of plastic pollution, conservation of resources, and promotion of eco-friendly alternatives. It is a crucial step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future for our state.
Alternatives to Plastic Bags
With the ban on plastic bags in Pennsylvania, it’s important to find alternative options for carrying groceries and other items. Here are a few eco-friendly alternatives to consider:
Reusable Shopping Bags:
Investing in a few reusable shopping bags is a great way to reduce your plastic waste. These bags are made from durable materials like cotton or canvas, and they can be used multiple times. Keep a few in your car or near your front door so you always have them handy.
If you forget your reusable bags or need an extra option, consider using paper bags instead. While they may not be as durable as plastic or reusable bags, paper bags can be recycled or composted, making them a better option for the environment.
Cartons and Boxes:
If you’re just grabbing a few items or don’t need a bag, consider using cartons or boxes to carry your purchases. Many grocery stores have these available near the checkout, and they can be reused or recycled for future trips to the store.
Mesh Produce Bags:
When it comes to fruits and vegetables, consider using mesh produce bags instead of plastic bags. These breathable bags allow your produce to stay fresh and can be reused multiple times. Plus, they can easily be washed and dried to keep them clean and sanitary.
Remember, the goal is to reduce and eliminate single-use plastic bags. By making small changes and using these alternative options, we can help protect the environment and create a more sustainable future.
Implementation and Enforcement
The implementation of the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania will require coordination between the state government, local municipalities, and businesses. The ban will be enforced by local authorities and failure to comply can result in fines and penalties.
State Government Role
The Pennsylvania state government will play a crucial role in implementing the plastic bag ban. It will be responsible for passing legislation and setting guidelines for the ban. The government will also need to allocate resources to educate the public and provide support to businesses during the transition period.
Local Municipality Role
Local municipalities will be responsible for enforcing the plastic bag ban within their respective jurisdictions. They will need to develop strategies and plans to ensure compliance and provide guidance to businesses and residents on alternative options for carrying their goods and groceries. Local authorities may conduct inspections and issue fines to businesses that continue to distribute plastic bags.
|Education campaigns to inform the public about the ban
|Issuing warnings to businesses that are not in compliance
|Working with retailers to promote reusable bags
|Conducting inspections to ensure compliance
|Providing support to small businesses to transition away from plastic bags
|Imposing fines and penalties on businesses that continue to distribute plastic bags
It is important for businesses and individuals to be aware of their responsibilities under the plastic bag ban and to take necessary steps to comply with the new regulations. By working together, Pennsylvania can reduce plastic waste and preserve the environment for future generations.
Questions and answers:
What is the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania?
The plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania refers to the prohibition of single-use plastic bags at retail stores in the state.
When did the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania come into effect?
The plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania came into effect on July 1, 2021.
Why was the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania implemented?
The plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania was implemented to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment. Single-use plastic bags are a major source of pollution and can take hundreds of years to decompose.
How will the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania affect retailers?
The plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania will require retailers to provide alternative options to customers, such as reusable bags or paper bags. Retailers may also choose to charge customers a fee for providing bags, as an incentive to reduce plastic bag usage.
Are there any exceptions to the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania?
Yes, there are exceptions to the plastic bag ban in Pennsylvania. Some examples include bags used for prescription medication, bulk items, and raw meat or fish. Additionally, small retailers with less than 2% of annual sales from food items are exempt from the ban.


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“I find out what the world needs. Then, I go ahead and invent it” – Thomas Edison.
A vision that dares!
In this regard, Shypple, a Rotterdam-based startup established itself to make the sea and air cargo market transparent and also to make world trade accessible to more people.
Sprout Startup of the Year!
Recently, Shypple named Sprout Startup of the Year. In fact, the Rotterdam startup defeated two other finalists — Closure, termination service for surviving relatives and Spielwork, a creative vacancy company.
The jury consisted of Sprout editor and jury chairman Philip Bueters, NBI Investors partner Janneke Bik, informal investor Fonq founder Patrick Kerssemakers and Lennart van der Ziel, co-founder of Travis, which became Startup of the Year last year.
What Shypple is all about?
In an attempt to put an end to this excessive paperwork created by the communication and documentation, the company offers a web application with simplified administrative handling and communication between parties.
It has a real-time dashboard that displays the status of the shipments while offering shippers with several booking, planning and communication possibilities. On top of that, the company has a communication tool, much like a chat-app Slack for the industry for shipment level conversation.
Aiming to tackle the European market from Rotterdam.
At present, Shypple currently has 120 customers who regularly ship freight through the service. According to founder Jarell Habets, about 85 per cent of the revenue comes from Dutch customers.
Further, Shypple provides service for customers in other European countries like Poland, Germany, France, Spain, and a handful of customers in Asia as well. So far the company has raised around € 1.7 million in funding.
Launch a subsidiary company in China is the “endgame”
Furthermore, Shypple will soon open a branch in China, since its the production house of the world. “The booking of freight is not necessarily a unique idea, everything revolves around execution,” says Habets. The logistics platform is heading for a turnover of 21 million euros this year, added Jarell Habets. He added, “When it comes to price and usability, we always win.”
Check out our interview with Jarell Habets:
Stay tuned to Silicon Canals for more updates in the tech startup world.


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MANILA – The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has opened an innovation hub that aims to align skills of local talents to the demand of the technology job market.
The PCCI has partnered with Huawei Technologies Philippines, Inc. for the PCCI Innovation Center located in Double Dragon Meridian Park in Pasay City.
At the soft launching of the innovation center, PCCI president Benedicto Yujuico said the innovation hub will offer educational programs aligning with in-demand skills and knowledge, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, coding, big data analysis, Internet of Things, satellite internet connectivity, and blockchain.
“We envision that our Center will facilitate knowledge-exchange among start-ups, established businesses, and LGUs (local government units) in moving toward digital transformation and software solutions in the areas of smart cities, medical technology, security systems, and digital banking, among others,” Yujuico said.
He added the innovation hub would be PCCI’s legacy and contribution to achieve the government’s Ambisyon 2040.
“We hope to accelerate the achievement of Ambisyon 2040 through introducing innovation to local government, the academe, NGOs (non-governmental organizations), MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises), and other sectors such as agriculture, agribusiness, logistics, and transportation,” the PCCI executive said.
PCCI Innovation Center managing director Miguel Yujuico said the innovation hub aims “to bring the startup spirit of Silicon Valley” to the country.
“There are lots of bright minds and talented people here in our county, but it’s a shame they often have to leave to find opportunities elsewhere,” he said.
He added the Center is creating the innovate.com.ph to reach out to entrepreneurs and innovators, creating business accelerators for local startups, and providing them training and mentorship programs.
“We are the one-stop shop to turn innovative ideas into full-fledged companies,” he said.” We look forward to seeing the innovators and entrepreneurs who are going to be walking through our doors in a few weeks, and look forward to seeing the great things they’re going to create.” (PNA)


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Canada Dry throws it back — playing at our heartstrings through nostalgia
Canada Dry is thrilled to unveil its new visual brand identity that will be applied to all company assets, including Canada Dry Ginger Ales and classic mixers, such as Tonic Water and Club Soda. Bold brand refresh, with the same great taste!
This rebranding pays tribute to the brand’s iconic heritage and personifies the meaning of authentic refreshment, quenching your thirst with each comforting sip that tastes like home. “This new look encapsulates everything Canada Dry stands for, as a brand grounded in nostalgia, but always facing the future for growth,” said Keurig Dr. Pepper Canada Vice President of Marketing Tebbie Chuchla.
This bright new look is bold, sharp and clear, cutting through with confidence and informed by heritage. Each element combines to modernize the overall design while championing the brand’s legacy.
Canada Dry’s new look is highlighted in the brand’s new ‘Tastes Like Home’ campaign, across social media and has started to roll out on shelves across the country.


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Tesco’s UK Import Warehouse to be 100% Biomass Powered
UK retailer Tesco plans to tap into a 295 megawatt biomass power plant in Teesport, England, to supply 100 percent of the energy needs for its import warehouse, reports, Biomass Magazine.
The $815 million powerplant will be run by MGT Power. It will use about 2.4 million metric tons of wood chips a year and will begin construction next year.
MGT says it will source the wood chips from certified sustainable forestry operations in the North and South America, as well as the Baltic.
Tesco only recently opened the warehouse, which cost more than $80 million and is adjacent to the forthcoming MGT plant.
Tesco will not be MGT’s only customer. The MGT plant will supply power to other operations as well.
Several months ago, Tesco achieved its goal of diverting from landfills 100 percent of waste from its UK operations.
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Mitsubishi has revealed that the first deliveries of its new upgraded Outlander PHEV have arrived in the country ahead of going on sale on 1 August.
The new SUVs are fresh off the boat at Bristol Royal Portbury Docks having made the long journey from Mitsubishi’s Nagoya plant, where right-hand drive models for the Japanese domestic market are built.
The 2019 model year Outlander PHEV has been upgraded with a suite of changes, including tech updates to the 2.4-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine that produces 133bhp and 156lb-ft torque. The electric motor at the rear of the powertrain has been boosted to 94bhp and the electric battery gets a 10 percent increase in output too, with 13.8kWh thanks to new battery cells. Mitsubishi says that the Outlander PHEV manages 139mpg on the WLTP economy test.
Changes have been made to the suspension to improve both ride and handling, alongside a remapped power steering system. Larger front brakes boost stopping power while a new “Snow Mode” on the 4x4 system will help when the weather gets cold.
On the styling front, there are new front and rear bumpers, a redesigned grille with a new honeycomb mesh and new headlights that feature LED high-beams. Two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels complete the exterior package.
Inside there are new seats, revised switchgear, an upgraded instrument cluster and more convenient USB ports says the Japanese carmaker.
Rob Lindley, Managing Director, Mitsubishi Motors in the UK said: “The engineering improvements on the Outlander PHEV show a significant and progressive step forward and demonstrate Mitsubishi’s knowledge and expertise as one of the pioneers of plug-in hybrid technology,” said Rob Lindley, Mitsubishi UK’s managing director. “The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV remains the UK’s most popular plug-in vehicle, and the revisions made for 2019 should help retain this status.
These first examples of the new 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV will be delivered to UK dealers in the coming weeks prior to the on-sale date of 1 August. Mitsubishi says that UK pricing and specification will be announced as the car goes on sale.


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Nick Summers is a technology journalist for The Next Web. He writes on all sorts of topics, although he has a passion for gadgets, apps and Nick Summers is a technology journalist for The Next Web. He writes on all sorts of topics, although he has a passion for gadgets, apps and video games in particular. You can reach him on Twitter, circle him on Google+ and connect with him on LinkedIn.
Samsung launched a second version of its Galaxy S4 zoom, an Android smartphone that boasts a 16-megapixel sensor, Optical Image Stabilization and 10x optical zoom, with LTE in Europe today.
Given that the device takes such high-resolution photographs and video, 4G-connectivity will be a welcome addition for anyone hoping to quickly upload their best shots to the Web while out and about.
Announced in June, the Galaxy S4 zoom runs on Android version 4.2 alongside Samsung’s Touchwiz skin. It packs a 1.5 GHz dual-core processor, 4.3-inch Super OMOLED display and 8GB of internal storage, coupled with a microSD slot compatible up to 64GB.
Samsung says the new LTE version will be available on a number of networks, including Deutsche Telekom, Tele2, TeliaSonera and Orange.
➤ Samsung Galaxy S4 zoom (via press release)
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With the new mandate in place, Enormous aims to build connected consumer experiences across all the brands under Nuvoco.
Nuvoco has awarded its complete communications mandate to Enormous. Nuvoco is the fifth-largest cement group in India, which acquired LaFarge cement and Emami's cement brands, and is spread across 11 cement plants nationwide, with a strong manufacturing forte. Its vision is to ‘Build a Safer, Smarter and Sustainable World'.
Chirag Shah Vice President - Nuvoco says, "As we know the very competitive cement industry requires a robust brand strategy and engaging communication to create an impact in today’s market, we are delighted to have Enormous Brands on board as our creative partner. We believe they are an idea-first agency with the right strategy and digital communication balance."
Speaking on the mandate win, Ashish Khazanchi from Enormous says, "Nuvoco is an eminent cement brand, and we are honoured to be associated with them. The idea is to build connected consumer experiences across all their brands. The potential creative opportunity that exists within the cement industry is challenging yet exciting. We intend to augment its brand connection through long term strategic and creative thinking. We are really excited to be working with a super sharp team at Nuvoco."
The mandate is for strategy, mainline creative, and digital for all of Nuvoco brands.


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USA – Mondelēz International, an American multinational food and beverage company has inaugurated its newest “Factory of the Future” in the Kingdom of Bahrain as it aims to meet the growing consumer demand.
The company invested US$90 million in the state-of-the-art biscuit manufacturing plant that produces iconic Power Brands, including Oreo cookies and Barni soft cakes.
It will also work for local consumers and serve as a hub for exports to the Gulf region, the Levant and Africa, reducing delivery costs and improving product freshness.
The 250,000 square meter manufacturing facility is about the size of 30 soccer fields with production capacity of nearly 45,000 tons per year.
This new plant is located alongside Mondelēz International’s existing manufacturing site, which has been producing Kraft cheese and Tang powdered beverages since 2008.
The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of His Highness Shaikh Isa Bin Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, H.E. Zayed R. Al Zayani, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism; Daniel Myers, Executive Vice President, Integrated Supply Chain, Mondelēz International; Maurizio Brusadelli, EVP & President, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, Mondelēz International; and distinguished VIP guests and members of the news media.
“The Middle East and Africa are priority markets for us, and we’re confident in our selection of Bahrain as the preferred location for our plant, due to its business-friendly environment, skilled local workforce and excellent transport links, all of which will be instrumental to the success of our growth plans,” said Brusadelli.
“We thank the Government of Bahrain for their continued support.
This site is our second major investment in the Kingdom over the past 10 years, further strengthening Bahrain’s position as a strategic business hub and contributing to national economic growth.”
The new plant has already made a valuable contribution to the local economy and takes advantage of the region’s highly skilled and educated local workforce.
The site creates about 150 direct jobs and helps sustain over 12,000 more indirect jobs in the local economy through its two plants.
“This investment in Bahrain is a great example of how we’re building a world-class supply chain, with Factories of the Future in strategic locations around the world.
It is designed to simplify operations, increase flexibility, improve productivity and meet the growth demands of our Power Brands,” said Myers.
“We’re keenly focused on winning with our consumers and customers, as we simplify and modernize our operations and production capacity.
We’re making our company more nimble and efficient, creating the fuel we need to invest in our brands and our people – our most important assets – and deliver sustainable, profitable growth for our shareholders.”


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American Eagle Outfitters Inc. (NYSE: AEO) reported its financial results for the quarter ended May 2, 2020, on Wednesday before the market opens. The bottom line was wider than the analysts’ expectations while the top-line missed consensus estimates.
The company slipped to a loss in the first quarter of 2020 from a profit last year due to higher impairment and restructuring charges as well as lower revenue. The results were impacted by store closures and aggressive inventory liquidation but customer engagement remained high and digital demand accelerated, well-exceeding its expectations.
In order to preserve financial liquidity in response to COVID-19, the company has reduced its fiscal 2020 capital spending plans to a range of $100-125 million, prioritizing strategic customer-centric and supply chain investments aimed at further strengthening its competitive position.
To preserve liquidity, the company has suspended its Q2 dividend and at this point does not anticipate declaring a dividend for the rest of this year. As previously announced, the company’s Q1 cash dividend was deferred until 2021 and will be payable on April 23, 2021, to stockholders of record at the close of business on April 9, 2021.
An innovative product portfolio that is capable of outshining the legacy databases has helped MongoDB (NASDAQ: MDB) stay largely unaffected by the market turmoil so far. Of late, the database
Retailer Macy's (NYSE: M) posted mixed results for its first quarter of 2020. While the topline missed the market's estimates, bottom line topped the targets. There were no change in
STZ Earnings: Key quarterly highlights that you need to know from Constellation Brands Q1 financial results
Constellation Brands (NYSE: STZ) today announced its first quarter financial results for the period ended May 31, 2020. First quarter net loss was $177.9 million, or $0.94 per share, compared


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Almost a decade after being discontinued the BMW 8 Series is all set to make a comeback. Today the coupe is regarded as one of the most daring and intriguing models the German luxury marque has ever produced. And after a new 8 Series concept was unveiled in May this year at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, it’s now been confirmed production of a new 8 Series will get underway in Germany in 2018, with a convertible variant set to arrive a year later in 2019.
Production of the new models will be carried out at BMW’s plant in the southern German town of Dingolfing, where the brand’s 3 to 7 Series models are already built, and where its current annual production record of 369,000 is already set to be beaten this year.
ALSO READ: Get your hands on Lamborghini Aventador S Roadster at ₹ 5.79 Crore
The new 8 Series will finally appear for sale next year in Europe and the United States as a coupe, with the convertible following in the same territories in 2019. These new models will be direct competitors of the Mercedes-Benz S-class coupe and convertible. BMW CEO Harald Krueger told shareholders at the company’s annual meeting in May that the 8 series will become the flagship model spearheading BMW’s renewed focus on high-margin, high-end luxury cars, instead of more affordable but less profitable compact models.
Although we have seen plenty of glimpses of what the new 8 Series will look like, thanks to the concept from earlier this year, spy shots of vehicles undergoing testing and images released by BMW, we’ve yet to hear much about what will be powering the new flagship coupe. However, just like its great rival Mercedes, BMW likes to share its powertrains around its related sedan and coupe models. That means BMW’s 3.0-liter inline-six is likely to make an appearance in the 8 Series, although it should be tuned to develop a little more than the 320 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of torque, it currently develops when it finds itself in the new model.


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India is looking at going all electric, on the automotive front by 2030. Therefore, global electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are looking at bee-lining it to India to cash in on the opportunity. UK’s Laureti Automotive Corporation clearly doesn’t want to miss out on that despite being a rather small player in the EV space.
To kick off their Indian innings in 2021, Laureti will do so with their DionX e-SUV that is touted to compete in the premium segment. It is a full-size SUV that boasts that typical British design; for example, you can see a hint of Aston Martin in the way the front end has been designed. The lines are contemporary and sharp which give this vehicle a sporty appeal. The cabin is lauded to be comfortable and spacious. The fit and finish look commendable and the company promises cutting-edge tech at your fingertips.
According to the brand, the EV utilises breakthrough technologies — that have been sourced from numerous joint ventures and cooperative efforts with companies based in France — including a highly-efficient drive system and extended battery life.
To demonstrate this fact, the company is setting out on the ‘Laureti Endurance Trip’ in August 2019. The target of this trip is to cover a distance of 6,000 km in less than 12 charge cycles. The DionX will flag off from Leh in Kashmir and drive down to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. The Laureti DionX will be built at a facility in Puducherry, however, no details have been revealed about the pricing just yet.


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New parish facility can put you on the ‘road to riches’
Norco ‘incubator’ to provide gear and guidance to help you start or build your business
|Norco Co-Op Photo.|
Business 'incubator'will be housed in this building.
Corey Faucheux, director of economic development and tourism for the parish, says the food incubator was created to help entrepreneurs from “mom and pop start-ups” to established small businesses create, market, and mass-produce their products for sale to grocery stores and other outlets.
That means your pecan pralines or “secret hot sauce” could be on the shelves of major stores with help from the incubator.
“I can’t give you an exact date, but this spring we are opening the incubator,” Faucheux told the Herald-Guide.
“The facility will have a federally approved, government-certified kitchen facility and anyone with a recipe can rent the facility by the hour, daily, weekly, or monthly to cook, market and mass produce their food products.”
Faucheux says he worked closely with Louisiana State University’s Agriculture Center to develop this project.
“Through the LSU Ag Center support, training and other services will be provided to our clients,” he continues.
“LSU’s Small Business Development Center and the food sciences department were instrumental in helping us get things started.”
Incubator services include shared space, shared equipment, management assistance, training and food technology support, food preparation and regulation compliance, packaging and warehousing, distribution, all in conjunction with LSU’s Agriculture Center.
“If someone has a praline recipe or special sauce they are making at home, they can rent the facility and begin the process to take it from the commercial kitchen to the store shelves,” Faucheux told the Herald-Guide.
Faucheux says that no decision has been made at the cost of renting the facility.
“We are still in the planning phase of this project, but we expect to have it ready by summer of this year,” Faucheux tells the Herald-Guide.
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The Nintendo Switch Road Trip Is Heading To A Town Near You!
Published on May 31st, 2019 | Updated on May 31st, 2019 | By FanFest
Nintendo will be heading out on the road to bring the Nintendo Switch to various towns this Summer and Fall.
Nintendo has announced plans to bring the Nintendo Switch, along with photo opportunities and various activities, on the road between June 26th and early October. Nintendo has stated that they plan to “offer visitors a colorful and highly interactive space featuring demos of some of the hottest Nintendo Switch games of the summer like Super Mario Maker 2 and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.”
“The stops throughout the road trip are designed with kids and families in mind, offering them a one-of-a-kind Nintendo-themed experience that they can enjoy together,” stated a Nintendo press release.
Nick Chavez, Nintendo of America’s Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, stated, “The Nintendo Switch Road Trip highlights the portability of Nintendo Switch as we travel the country to bring our games directly to fans. Whether you’re visiting a state fair or just out for a day with the family, our event provides an opportunity to relax, play some games and have some fun.”
The traveling Nintendo Switch vehicle will offer individual spaces for various games, including a warp pipe filled stage for Super Mario Maker 2, a neon-colored paradise for Splatoon 2, and a large TV and bucket race car seats for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
Social media will be a big draw at each stop, with Nintendo providing ample opportunities for fun photos. Nintendo-themed challenges and discount coupons to retailers like Target will also be available at each stop will supplies last.
Below is the list of Nintendo Switch Road Trip scheduled stops:
- June 26th – 30th, 2019: Chicago, Illinois (Navy Pier)
- July 3rd – 7th, 2019: Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Summerfest)
- July 12th – 14th, 2019: Sacramento, California (California State Fair)
- July 19th – 21st, 2019: Seattle, Washington (Bite of Seattle)
- August 2nd – 4th, 2019: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (Musikfest)
- August 8th – 11th, 2019: Des Moines, Iowa (Iowa State Fair)
- August 15th – 19th, 2019: Louisville, Kentucky (Kentucky State Fair)
- August 22nd – 25th, 2019: Syracuse, New York (The Great New York State Fair)
- August 30th – September 2nd, 2019: Saint Paul, Minnesota (Minnesota State Fair)
- September 6th – 8th, 2019: Albuquerque, New Mexico (New Mexico State Fair)
- September 11th – 15th, 2019: Pomona, California (LA County Fair)
- September 26th – 29th, 2019: West Springfield, Massachusetts (The Big E)
- October 3rd – 6th, 2019: Perry, Georgia (Georgia National Fair)
Games playable during the Nintendo Switch Road Trip are:
- Super Mario Maker 2
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
- Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu!
- Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee!
- Overcooked! 2
- Super Mario Party
- Splatoon 2
Visitors who have a My Nintendo account can check in at each Road Trip stop using their My Nintendo QR Code and receive a gift, while supplies last.
Will you be checking out any of the Nintendo Switch Road Trip stops? Let us know in the comments!
Richard Allen is a freelance writer and contributing editor for various publications. When he’s not writing about video games on FanFest.com you can find him on Broadway World or in Graffiti Magazine. He can be contacted via email at firstname.lastname@example.org or email@example.com. You can visit his website at facebook.com/richardallenwrites


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SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) -- Palm Inc. PALM, +0.00% after Monday's closing bell said it now sees fiscal second-quarter earnings per share of 10 cents to 11 cents, compared with its prior view of 15 cents to 18 cents. The smartphone company, citing a delay in completing the certification process for a product that had been expected to ship within the quarter, said it now sees quarterly revenue of $390 million to $395 million, compared with its prior outlook of $430 million to $450 million. Before items, the company now sees quarterly per-share income of 15 cents to 16 cents, compared with its prior view of 20 cents to 23 cents. The company added that it now expects to start shipping the Treo 750 for the United States market early in the fiscal third quarter.
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David Boxer auction sparks a bit of art interest
The David Boxer auction held earlier this month provided a snapshot of the state-of-art investment in Jamaica, with just half the nearly $20 million worth of pieces on sale finding buyers.
The auction saw the unlocking of 101 works by a series of Jamaican masters and intuitives that were held by Dr Boxer, the late artist and former curator of the National Gallery of Jamaica. His personal collection spanned thousands of works, but the auction focused on a small section of his catalogue.
“It was last public offering in terms of the Boxer collection, so people were willing to part with some of their money,” said David Nunes, one of the trustees of the David Boxer estate.
The interest in the art scene shot up due to this occasion, Nunes said.
Technical pieces by Boxer sold for $1 million and a Colin Garland for more than $660,000, but those pieces sold within the market estimate, as outlined in the programme. Ras Dizzy, a famed intuitive artist, fetched above market value with two or three bidders duking it out. In the end, a Canadian claimed top bid on nearly all of the Dizzys on the night.
“The Dizzys did well. We started bidding at $40,000 but some went for $80,000,” said Nunes. “But outside of Dizzy’s, I think the majority of art fell within the estimated price range.”
The auction was a relative success when viewed within context of an overall lull in the art market, said Nunes, himself an artist.
Of note was the underperformance of the Christ by Karl Abrahams, a small piece the size of a Bible which sold for roughly $130,000 despite the estimated value of $400,000. A Christopher Gonzalez watercolour piece sold for $155,000, which was below its $180,000 value. A large Omari Ra painted in the philosophical colours of Rastafari and snagged at its opening bid at $120,000, the low end of its value, while a small clay sculpture by Edna Manley sold for $85,000, arguably at its value.
Heads of listed investment firms, hoteliers and prominent lawyers joined art collectors at the auction, but Nunes said the event only had an average turnout.
On the night, the Financial Gleaner counted some 40 of the 101 lots sold, but Nunes said after the auction other lots were sold, pushing the total over 50.
Architect Evan Williams, the man behind the new R Hotel in New Kingston, said he acquired pieces at the Boxer auction for the planned art gallery and art museum at the R, which opened for business last year at Renfew Road. He said the museum would form an attraction for visitors, while the gallery would allow for art purchases.
Galleries are key to the art scene, giving artists a place to sell their works and art collectors a place to resell. Today, there are a handful of galleries in the island.
“You mean frame shops,” said Miguel Gonzalez, an artist and businessman. “There are no real stand-alone galleries any more, or very few,” he asserted.
Gonzalez hopes that the resurgence of new money – with the boom in listings on the Jamaica Stock Exchange, inflows of cash from Airbnb listings, and new housing developments – will pump new life into art.
“Today, you can buy a master’s work like Christopher Gonzalez at half price when compared to a decade ago during the height of the Ponzi schemes,” said Gonzalez, who is also the nephew of the famed artist.
Unregulated investment schemes that offered annual returns of more than 120 per cent were at their zenith a decade ago. Prior to that, the art market witnessed another peak in the early 1990s when the financial sector was booming.


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ImpactAlpha, January 25 – Among the world’s largest producers of food, India stands out for its 130 million independent smallholder farmers who till, on average, less than four hectares of land each.
It’s not new that these smallholder farmer generally get a raw deal from the agrifood value chain from which they source seeds, fertilizer, equipment and loans, and into which they sell their harvest. Government extension services are spotty, crop prices are under-valued by intermediaries, and affordable insurance and financing options to purchase inputs and equipment remain limited.
What is new is investor interest in a growing crop of tech entrepreneurs who are taking aim at that fragmented, opaque and underdeveloped value chain to streamline India’s $280 billion agriculture industry. Many share a strategy: boosting farmers’ incomes and improving their livelihoods through access to information, technologies and markets.
“These digital solutions are throwing up information in what, in the past, was a black box,” says Ritu Verma of Mumbai-based Ankur Capital. Ankur backed a $20 million Series C round this month for Bangalore-based CropIn, which provides data analysis on crop yields and risks with satellites, sensors and weather data.
CropIn’s financing was among more than half-dozen agtech deals in the past 60 days that signals the investor traction the digitization of Indian agriculture has gained despite – or because of – COVID-related disruptions. Digital agtech platforms today reach perhaps 10% of India’s smallholders, Verma says. “We’re just at the tip of the iceberg, so that’s what is attracting investors.”
Indian agtech startups raised more than $360 million in 2020, up from about $300 million in 2019, and $118 million in 2018.
The mix of engaged investors includes Ankur, an early-stage impact tech investor increasingly focused on agtech opportunities, dedicated agtech VC firms Omnivore and Nabventures, first-time agtech investor Quona Capital, and generalist VC firms Sequoia, Beenext and Accel.
“Indian entrepreneurs are solving for the low-hanging fruit in the sector, which is in turn helping farmers reach slightly better income levels and expand into horticulture and commercial farming,” Omnivore’s Jinesh Shah tells ImpactAlpha. “That will, in turn, help them make more money and also bring more investment into the sector.” Startups that have recently raised capital include:
- DeHaat, which runs an online marketplace that connects India’s farmers with financial services and buyers for their products.
- Arya, which offers hyper-local warehousing services and financing.
- Intello Labs, which has developed an artificial intelligence-powered imaging system to track food quality as products move from farm to consumer.
- Unnati, which collects data at the individual farm level to help farmers get access to financial services.
- Krishify, which has built a social media platform to correct information asymmetry around crop pricing by connecting farmers to each other.
Demonstrable traction and scalability has sped up follow-on rounds. When Cropin raised its seed round in 2013, Ankur was among the only early-stage tech investors looking at the agriculture sector. Cropin raised a Series A financing in 2016 and Series B in 2018 before this month’s series C. In contrast, DeHaat’s Series A and B rounds were only nine months apart, as were Arya’s second A and B rounds.
“These businesses are getting de-risked and larger investors are getting comfortable with the sector,” says Verma. “We also had a pandemic.”
Disruptions to food logistics and vulnerabilities in supply chains drove more investors to the sector. A mid-year agrifood tech investing report from AgFunder showed 2020 investment trends were on par with and projected to surpass 2019.
Investors have shown a clear preference for companies with solid track records and scalable solutions. Early-stage startups have had a comparatively rougher time. Nabventures estimates that of the 42 ventures that raised about $360 million last year, only 15 startups were first-time fundraisers. That’s fewer first-timers than in 2019, despite a modest increase in total fundings.
“Startups that had already raised got further support from existing investors and also from some new investors,” says Nabventures Rajesh Ranjan. The support helped tide proven entities over through the cash shortage and liquidity squeeze caused by the pandemic. “That happened at the expense of smaller deals. A number of startups didn’t receive funding.”
If the pandemic demonstrated the utility of agtech solutions, the pause in dealmaking and subsequent reassessment had a “corrective effect,” deflating the valuations of many companies and making them more attractive to investors, says Ranjan.
“COVID actually gave us the opportunity to deploy capital at reasonable valuations,” he says. Nabventures reached a first close on its first fund in 2019, but waited until 2020 to cut its first checks because it felt that many companies were overvalued. It made its first deal in fintech company Jai Kisan in June and backed three more companies by year-end.
Investors in the sector are poised to ramp up investing in 2021. Omnivore closed its $97 million second fund in 2019, while Ankur reached a first close on its second fund in January 2020.
Much of the focus will be on the expansion of digitization platforms like CropIn and DeHaat. Watch for the rise of integrated platforms that leverage different platforms’ strengths in technical assistance, farm inputs or financing and market access. Another key area to watch: digital monitoring of food quality standards and transparency across the agrifood value chain. “Currently, we don’t know what farmers are getting paid, because of the difference in the perception of product quality,” Shah explains.
AgNext, an Omnivore portfolio company, is trying to improve product quality, with a network of sensors that monitor crop growing conditions and analyze crop quality.
Adds Shah, “If you’re able to crack solutions to the quality problem, that will bring increased transparency on prices for farmers, which will create more value for the sector as a whole.”


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Stakeholders operating at the Tincan Island Port have lamented the 45 percent increase in the cargo handling charge introduced by the Management of the Ports & Terminal Multiservices Limited, PTML, even as it was done without adequate stakeholders engagement as required by law.
Primetime Reporters gathered that PTML management had late last month issued a notice to it customers announcing increment in its handling charges by 1st July, 2023 citing surging inflation, devaluation of Naira as well as petroleum subsidy removal which it said led to increased cost of operation as reason for the increment.
Speaking on the development, the Managing Director of Gold Link Investment Limited, Sir Tony Anakebe admitted that some terminal operators have readjusted their handling charges, at least, marginally by five to six percent while some of them who had not done so were still planning to readjust their charges.
“The terminal operators and shipping companies are killing Nigerians with their charges”, he added.
On his part, the Chairman of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria, APFFLON Mr. Darrick Jude Ige observed that in keeping with its notice, the PTML management had jacked up its handling charges by 45 percent which he said is bitting hard not only on the importers but also on the freight forwarders and the consuming public as the importers would eventually transfer the cost of clearing to the final price of the goods in the market.
“Assuming they were collecting N1.5 million before for face duty, it will be jacked up to N2.1 million or N2.2 million and the charge will continue to add each day until you take delivery of the consignment. It is called progressive charge and each of the five days, the charge increases. If they charge N2,500 this week, by next week, they will charge N5,000 and by the following week, it will increase to N7,500 until when it gets to about 20 day before it will now be at a stable charge until you evacuate your good.
“The notice we saw was within five days to July 1st. We are still looking for a way to dialogue with them and see how they can review the charge because from N5,000 earlier charged on non starting vehicles, they now jacked it up to N50,000. Is it normal? Without consulting the stakeholders. It is too outrageous!
“Even before the increase in exchange rate, there has been an argument on this N50,000 increment for the past two to three months. So, they now use the opportunity of this increment in exchange rate to jack up but if they jack up only their charges, it would have been understandable but why the increase from N5,000 to N50,000?”, Ige queried.
He, however, told this medium that the leadership of the freight forwarding associations operating at the terminal were mobilizing themselves for a meeting with the management of PTML for a possible downward review of the increment.
“No matter how the margin of increment, nobody will be comfortable with it even if it is one naira but in all, we will sit down with them and see how to resolve it. However, we have no plans to protest because we believe that there will be a headway”, he stated.
Also speaking, another Chieftain of APFFLON, Mr. Godfrey Emeka Nwosu hinted that the increment was only effected at the PTML for now as according to him, others were yet to effect any increment in their handling charges.
“Mind you, they were the ones that announced this increment in their handling charges by 1st of July. Other terminal operators did not say anything about it but I know how it works here, once one successfully jacked up charges, others will follow. So, we should not expect anything short of uniform increment by these terminal operators.
“Looking at the invoice, handling charges of about N90,000 is now getting close to N130,000. Before now, handling charges for PTML or for instance Port & Cargo, you see 1×40 footer container paying N130,000 as handling charges but now it is something up to N160,000 to N170,000”, he submitted.
Lamenting lack of stakeholders engagement before increment as required by law, he said, “Today in this industry, we wake up in the morning and read in the papers about increment, change of policies without any consultation. This recent increment in the Central Bank rate for duty payment was implemented without consulting anyone . We woke up to be informed that there is an increment in the exchange rate which has now affected duty rate. Nobody was consulted. They no longer find a reason to consult the stakeholders. All they will do is to serve you paper notice.
“Like what they did recently, it was in the news that we read that from the 1st of July, 2023 handling charges will be increased by 45 percent. That is the only way they communicate with us”, he added.
Send your press invite, news, press releases/articles to email@example.com. Also, follow us on Twitter @PrimetimeRepor1 and on Facebook on facebook.com/primetimereporters or call the editor on 07030661526.


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Mastercard, AP Sign Pact to Create Digital Ecosystem in State
Mastercard, through a mobile app, will help create a marketplace solution for farmers to buy and sell crops in a safer and simpler way besides being able to get access to credit and transparent pricing.
Picture for Representation. (Reuters)
Global payments technology major Mastercard and the Andhra Pradesh government today signed a pact to create a "digital ecosystem" in the state. It focuses on implementing a 4-pronged agenda for the state. Signed by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Mastercard President & CEO Ajay Banga, the pact will see the implementation of innovative payment technologies that will help the state move towards a cashless society as also to elevate its foothold as a smart city.
Mastercard, through a mobile app, will help create a marketplace solution for farmers to buy and sell crops in a safer and simpler way besides being able to get access to credit and transparent pricing. "The first one is to really work hard in enabling farmers to find access to the new ways to be able to get their produce to markets and connect to buyers and get paid for it in the form that does not allow middleman to get between them and take away what is theirs," Banga told reporters at the MoU signing.
The two-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) 'Fintech Valley' was inked between Mastercard and Andhra Pradesh Electronics IT Agency (APEITA) to enable a safe and secure digital solution at the state level. Naidu said he strongly believes in technology and fintech (financial technologies). "I think we can do wonders. Technology is going to bring revolution now. I strongly believe that compared to physical currency, digital currency will be cost-effective."
The pact will also include collaboration on a smart city and develop smart transit solutions to help speed daily commutes and bring efficiency across public transportation system. "To me it (smart city) is about making lives easy for the citizen of a city," Banga said. They should be able to commute through multiple ways seamlessly without having the need to pay at each instance separately, he added. Besides, Mastercard will work on cybersecurity to make digital payments secure and hold a global conference in Andhra Pradesh annually from mid-2018 for the exchange of ideas. And lastly, the partnership will work towards enhancing financial, digital literacy and expertise through a knowledge sharing and skill development programme to support a Centre of Excellence at a leading university in Andhra Pradesh.
"This initiative will provide access to Mastercard Labs and Global Technology Hubs to support the dynamic vision of building capacity to make Andhra Pradesh a model for digital payments excellence," the company said in a statement. Mastercard Senior Vice President and Group Head, Global Community Relations Ravi Aurora said the company is deeply committed to India and it will invest USD 750-800 million over the next four to five years. "Mastercard has a very deep commitment to India, we have since 2014 invested over USD 500 million in India. We have a commitment in the next four years for another between USD 750 -800 million investment in India," Aurora said. He said India is a key market and Mastercard is committed both for 'Make in India' and 'Skill India'. Of its total global workforce of 15,000 employees, about 14 percent are employed in India, he added.
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Despite continuing economic fears, PC shipments during the first quarter of 2008 in Western Europe rose by 14.1 per cent on the same time last year.
Among the key drivers for the continued rise in sales is the difference between the pound and the dollar, with the exchange rate helping to drive down the ASP for many laptops and desktops.
The 15.2 million PCs shipped during the quarter show that, despite increasing fears over the economic environment, consumers are proving surprisingly resilient when it comes to the PC market, Gartner’s principle analyst Ranjit Atwal said.
"The decline in pricing helped outweigh any negative influences driven by economic concerns in the first quarter of 2008," he said. "While the PC market is not immune to an economic downturn, continued strong mobile penetration helps to sustain robust growth."
In the UK specifically, first quarter shipments increased 11.2 per cent, slightly down on the average rate of growth across the region but still strong, totaling 3.1 million units. Growth in the mobile sector is still growing though, with it passing the 40 per cent mark for the first time.
Mobile PC sales made up over 60 per cent of the market during the first quarter and nearly 70 per cent of consumer PCs. However, it wasn’t such good news for the desktop market with it seeing a 15 per cent decline in both the consumer and professional markets; the latter is an area where it has remained strong in previous quarters.
Dell and HP both remained leaders in the market, with the vendors seeing market share of 24.6 per cent and 22.6 per cent respectively. Acer continued its climb with its market share reaching 11 per cent.
Toshiba and Fujitsu Siemens made up fourth and fifth, with eight per cent and five per cent respectively.


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Security firm IOActive warned on Tuesday that it has uncovered multiple vulnerabilities in Belkin WeMo Home Automation devices that could affect over 500,000 users.
Belkin’s WeMo uses Wi-Fi and mobile Internet to enable users to control home electronics from any location in the world from their smartphone.
According to Mike Davis, IOActive’s principal research scientist, vulnerabilities in WeMo give attackers the ability to remotely control WeMo Home Automation attached devices over the Internet, perform malicious firmware updates, and in some cases, remotely monitor the devices.
Additionally, Davis found that if an attacker successfully connects to a WeMo device within a victims’ network, the device can be used to access other devices such as laptops, mobile phones, and attached network file storage on an internal home network.
“As we connect our homes to the Internet, it is increasingly important for Internet-of-Things device vendors to ensure that reasonable security methodologies are adopted early in product development cycles,” Davis said. “This mitigates their customer’s exposure and reduces risk. Another concern is that the WeMo devices use motion sensors, which can be used by an attacker to remotely monitor occupancy within the home.”
“While the benefits of [the Internet of Things] are myriad, the reality is that it offers hackers millions of new access points to a variety of networks,” Chris Hinkley, a Senior Security Engineer at FireHost, wrote in a recent SecurityWeek column.
According to IOActive, the vulnerabilities found within WeMo devices expose users to several dangerous threats, from fires to the waste of electricity.
“The reason for this is that, after attackers compromise the WeMo devices, they can be used to remotely turn attached devices on and off at any time,” IOActive explained. “Given the number of WeMo devices in use, it is highly likely that many of the attached appliances and devices will be unattended, thus increasing the threat posed by these vulnerabilities.”
According to IOActive, the vulnerabilities include:
Unauthorized Firmware Updates – The Belkin WeMo firmware images that are used to update the devices are signed with public key encryption to protect against unauthorized modifications. However, the signing key and password are leaked on the firmware that is already installed on the devices. This allows attackers to use the same signing key and password to sign their own malicious firmware and bypass security checks during the firmware update process.
SSL Certificates Not Validated – Belkin WeMo devices do not validate Secure Socket Layer (SSL) certificates preventing them from validating communications with Belkin’s cloud service including the firmware update RSS feed. This allows attackers to use any SSL certificate to impersonate Belkin’s cloud services and push malicious firmware updates and capture credentials at the same time. Due to the cloud integration, the firmware update is pushed to the victim’s home regardless of which paired device receives the update notification or its physical location.
Vulnerable Communication Protocol – The Internet communication infrastructure used to communicate Belkin WeMo devices is based on an abused protocol that was designed for use by Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services to bypass firewall or NAT restrictions. It does this in a way that compromises all WeMo devices security by creating a virtual WeMo darknet where all WeMo devices can be connected to directly; and, with some limited guessing of a ‘secret number’, controlled even without the firmware update attack.
Vulnerable API – The Belkin WeMo server application programming interface (API) was also found to be vulnerable to an XML inclusion vulnerability, which would allow attackers to compromise all WeMo devices.
“IOActive feels very strongly about responsible disclosure and as such worked closely with CERT on the vulnerabilities that were discovered,” IOActive stated.
According to IOActive, CERT made several attempts to contact Belkin about the issues, however, Belkin was unresponsive.
In its advisory issued on Feb 18., CERT warned: “We are currently unaware of a practical solution to this problem.”
Because Belkin did not issue any patches for the security gaps outlined above, IOActive issued its own advisory on Tuesday and suggests that until an update is made, customers should unplug all affected WeMo devices.
A Belkin spokesperson responded to a SecurityWeek inquiry several hours later, saying they were looking into the vulnerability reports.
“Our security teams are looking into the vulnerabilities now,” the spokesperson told SecurityWeek. “I hope to have an official statement later on this afternoon on potential fixes and timing and will update you as soon as I can.”
*Updated with additional details from CERT, comment from Belkin


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ID fraud hits a quarter of adults
ONE in four UK adults have been affected by ID theft as the cost of the crime soars to £1.3bn a year. Research by consumer group Which? also found the crime is a concern to two thirds of consumers.
Which? editor Malcolm Coles said a researcher was able to steal his identity with ease, obtaining his birth certificate, his mother's maiden name, place of birth, mortgage value, a plan of where his flat is on his street, medical data and details of his shopping habits.
An attempt to access his credit card account using this information was only foiled by the fact that Malcolm hadn't got round to telling his bank he'd moved.
Coles said: 'I couldn't believe how easy it was for someone else to assume my identity.
'Sitting on my desk was a folder with my birth certificate, a print-out of how often I went to the gym and my mortgage details. If this is what an amateur can do, imagine how easy it is for an experienced criminal.'
ID thieves gain access to bank accounts to steal money, run up bills, launder money or carry out benefit fraud.
The payments association Apacs is expected to produce figures next week that confirm that identity fraud is rocketing in the UK.
Internet scams include spam e-mails containing viruses that access information on peoples' computers, and 'phishing' e-mails that look like bank correspondence asking people to 'confirm' their security details.
Offline, thieves make bogus phone calls from 'banks' requesting security details to check suspected fraud, read credit card strips to clone cards or shop online, and even raid bins for sensitive documents - armed with some details, it's easier to get more.
Coles added: 'Even a simple step taken by industry to stop accepting mother's maiden name and place of birth as default passwords would be a good start, as it's too easy for fraudsters to get hold of this basic information, which is where the process of stealing an identify begins.'
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Opensignal regularly analyses mobile networks around the world, having recently looked at the 5G experience worldwide as of Jan 2021, with its latest report looking at T-Mobile's standalone 5G network, one of the world's only standalone access 5G deployments to date.
The outages experienced by many companies in the US on Tuesday (Australian time) were apparently due to T-Mobile making changes to its network configuration resulting in a series of cascading failures for its users which affected both voice and data networks, the chief executive and co-founder of web-infrastructure and website-security company, Cloudflare claims.
Despite COVID-19 resulting in revenue pressures from slowing sales and consumer demand for new products, many major telecoms carriers say they still have the cash flow to move ahead with 5G deployments, according to one global data and analytics firm.
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Hi Hedware, I asked, they’re in Sydney Australia.The full list is here:https : // www . alibabacloud . com /[…]
Looks like the ban hammer struck again on innocent players! I was one of them! been missing out on 2[…]
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Where are the servers based?


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Teppen to Add Jill Valentine to the Game, Announces World Championship Plans
During the Teppen Asia Japan Premiere event in Tokyo, Teppen GungHo Online revealed that the game is now available in Japan, Australia, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Singapore, and Thailand. In addition, Jill Valentine revealed Jill Valentine and her three unique Hero Arts abilities. The first expansion has been announced, “Day of Nightmares”, and it will offer elements from Raccoon City to the Land of Illusion.
The Teppen World Championship is official and will be the first worldwide tournament for the Ultimate Card Battle game, for a shot at a large cash prize. The Teppen World Championships will take place in Tokyo this December, and qualifying matches will begin in October 2019. The PAX West Invitational Tournament was also announced, as was the Tokyo Game Show Cup. There will be tournaments in other regions as well. Players can also look forward to more Heroes and card packs later this year.
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On Monday, federal authorities arrested 13 people in conjunction with an enormous international credit card fraud scheme, filled with fake identities, altered credit reports and other forms of intrigue.
According to authorities, the scheme is one of the largest credit card fraud cases ever brought by the Department of Justice, involving eight countries and 28 states, and scamming financial institutions out of more than $200 million. Federal prosecutors filed a criminal complaint in New Jersey.
The defendants, who include five people not currently in custody, allegedly formed fake businesses just to get credit card terminals and use the money on things like gold, spa treatments and fancy cars. They are accused of making up fictional people to add as users on the credit cards, and conspiring with a credit repair company to improve credit scores using fake lines of credit.
Read more at the Wall Street Journal.
For more InsideCounsel coverage of credit card-related lawsuits, see below:


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The £2m campaign, which is aimed at both pay-monthly and pay-as-you-go customers, focuses on four “simple” services that help improve customers’ every day lives. It will run across out of home, retail, radio and digital.
The ads follow Vodafone group chief executive officer Vittorio Colao’s ambition, announced last year, to get more customers using its data services and make use of all the functions their smartphones have to offer.
In the UK, part of chief executive officer Guy Laurence’s “three pillars” for growth is increasing the 80% of UK mobile phone users that have mobile internet access to close to 100%. The other objectives include changing Britain’s companies’ working culture and “giving something back”, which is implemented through Vodafone’s Text Giving programme, amongst other initiatives.
Almost half of the UK population owns a smartphone, with smart devices accounting for just under 70% of mobile sales in the 12 weeks to 2 October, according to Kantar Worldpanel ComTech.
Smartphones and data services are lucrative products for mobile operators, as they provide higher margins than more traditional feature phones and voice plans. Rival mobile operator Three revealed in a blog post earlier this week that 97% of all its network use is now data.
Vodafone’s campaign also coincides with the launch of Vodafone UK’s “Tech Team” – specially trained staff available to speak to online, in-store and on the phone, that are tasked with helping customers get the most from their devices. Tech Team emulates rival O2’s specialist online and in-store customer service team “O2 Gurus”.
The four service elements featuring in the UK ad campaign are: Vodafone’s unlimited data offer for the first three months on new contract plans; its service that transfers customers’ contacts and media on to their new phones; the Buyback scheme that gives customers the opportunity to trade in their old phones; and Sure Signal, that lets customers boost the mobile signal in their homes.
The creative for the campaign, which carries the strapline “Another small thing that can mean the world”, was the first produced by Vodafone UK’s newly appointed agency RKCR.


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This week, Myke, Stephen and Federico gather from across the globe to discuss WWDC, beekeeping and some of their new favorite apps.
Tagged with “technology” (1014)
Dan and Haddie are joined by Shawn Blanc and Myke Hurley to talk about last week’s Apple World Wide Developers Conference in San Francisco, the best and worst airports, iOS 7, the App of the Week, Kickstarter of the Week, Video of the week, and more.
Nora Young speaks with Elizabeth Lawley. She’s a professor of interactive games and media, and head of "Just Press Play" at the Rochester Institute of Technology. They talk about adding a "game layer" to education. Click the Listen button to stream this interview now, or download the podcast here.
On Monday, Apple announced iRadio — its entry into the crowded field of music streaming services. iTunes has become the top music retailer by selling song files. But no one in the music business thinks the iTunes model is the future. Pandora is the oldest and most successful streaming service so far. But it’s been a disappointment to investors.
Friedrich Kittler - The Philosopher’s Zone - ABC Radio National (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
Some understand him as a Teutonic version of Marshall McLuhan. They both peered into the black box of modern, mediated life but Friedrich Kittler’s understandings of the machine were altogether different.
Friedrich Kittler’s theories pressed mathematics, music, technology, media, and ancient Greece into fierce engagement. Who was this enigmatic media philosopher-cum-intellectual star who inspired a generation of students, artists, researchers, computer programmers, and the odd scientist? And what does Pink Floyd have to do with it? He would have been 70 this month; a chance to reflect.
Axel Fliethmann, Monash University
Joulia Strauss, Artist
Geoffrey Winthrop-Young, University of British Columbia
All our digital devices are wired up now. Next in line is the world of things.
Door locks that recognize you and yield at your approach. Machines at the gym that know your Tuesday workout and go straight to it when you walk in. Anything, anywhere with embedded intelligence and connectivity, responding to you and to other things around you. A programmable world of objects, things.
It may sound like heaven. It may sound like hell. It’s happening.
Bill Wasik, senior editor of WIRED magazine. Author of this month’s cover feature: “Welcome to the Programmable World.” (@billwasik)
Jason Johnson, chairman of the Internet of Things Consortium. CEO of August. (@jcjohnson)
Sherry Turkle, professor of the social studies of science and technology at MIT. (@sturkle)
Haddie and Dan talk about choosing Dan’s new camera, selling Haddie’s Swedish camera, getting the Jackal shirts shipped out in time for WWDC, the babies in mugs meme, password tattoos, why people are moving to Texas, Zynga closing three more offices, a Go
Dan Benjamin is joined by Sunni Brown, Dave Gray, and Mike Rohde to discuss visual thinking, visual note-taking, and the doodle revolution.
"Father of the Spreadsheet," Dan Bricklin, is this week’s guest.
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