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Despite the shift to e-commerce during the pandemic, attacks against POS devices persist. For example, Visa's payment fraud disruption team uncovered recent malware attacks on POS devices used by two North American hospitality companies.
John McAfee, the founder of the cybersecurity firm that bears his name who also is a serial entrepreneur and a former presidential candidate, has been charged with federal income tax evasion. Plus, the SEC is accusing him of promoting initial virtual coin offerings without disclosing he was paid to do so.
2020's health crisis has created an unexpected boom in telemedicine initiatives. But with this rapid innovation and adoption comes a corresponding uptick in fraud. Dean Nicolls of Jumio Corporation talks about how improving identity verification can help curb the trend.
Organizations around the world must build stronger cyber resilience programs to help ensure they can bounce back from cyberattacks, says Craig Rice, group director of cyber resilience at Aviva, a British multinational insurance firm, who describes how regulatory requirements will evolve.
A Chinese-speaking hacking group used a rare Unified Extensible Firmware Interface bootkit dubbed "MosaicRegressor" to target nongovernment organizations and diplomatic missions with an espionage campaign for two years, the security firm Kaspersky reports.
Security researchers are warning of a fresh wave of phishing emails with election-related lures that are designed to get users to click, opening the door to spreading the Emotet botnet or harvesting users' credentials.
Privacy regulators in Germany have slammed clothing retailer H&M with a $41 million fine for collecting and retaining private employee data in violation of the EU's General Data Protection Regulation. H&M has apologized, instituted changes and promised to financially compensate employees.
Organizations in all sectors need to end "the dichotomy between privacy and security" and avoid a checklist approach to privacy protection, says digital ethics expert Ivana Bartoletti, who explains why ensuring customers' privacy is essential to a company's survival.
A new malware variant dubbed Black-T developed by the hacker group TeamTnT targets exposed Docker daemon APIs to perform scanning and cryptojacking operations, according to researchers at Palo Alto Networks' Unit 42.
Security researchers at Appgate are warning about a recently uncovered ransomware variant called Egregor that appears to have infected about a dozen organizations worldwide over the past several months. The gang behind this crypto-locking malware is threatening to release data if victims don't pay.
Eight months after Microsoft issued a critical security update fixing a remote code execution flaw in Exchange Server, more than half of these mail servers in use remain vulnerable to exploits, according to the security firm Rapid7.
Among the most malicious and potentially dangerous cyber incidents affecting the healthcare, energy and other sectors are evolving "distruptionware" attacks - including ransomware - that aim to shut down businesses, says retired FBI agent Jason G. Weiss.


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Welcome back to "This Week In The Market," where we break down all of the latest market news in easy to read, easy to understand ways. Let's go!
JP's Back. Tell A Friend
The BFD: Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell spoke in front of a House of Representatives panel this week, specifically questioned on the topic of inflation. Powell attributes the recent spike in U.S inflation to the economy reopening and not, as he was very quick to say, similar to the 1970's and 1980's where inflation spiked more than 10%
In Plain Speak: Inflation is, generally speaking, not great. Sure it brings about higher wages and things like higher savings account interest rates, but you get hit on the backside with much higher costs of goods and services. The U.S is currently experiencing price spikes across the board, with the highest increases seen in lumber, food, airline and hotel tickets, as well as used cars. Powell attributes all of this to sheer demand by the American people as the world tries to get back to normal. People are leaving their homes, buying new homes like crazy and traveling as much as possible. With this, supply chain shortages, coupled with the insane demand, bring about higher prices for pretty much everything. Powell did admit however that the current rate of 5% inflation is more than they thought:
“I will say that these effects have been larger than we expected, and they may turn out to be more persistent than we have expected,” - Chairman Jerome Powell
How Can This Make Me Rich?: Profiting off of inflation isn't easy, as the cost of doing pretty much everything outpaces any potential wage growth you might experience. However, in times of mega-inflation, stores of value tend to increase. This could be gold, silver, copper, or even cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. If you believe that inflation is on the way, you could jump into these pretty quickly and easily. Also, companies that sell the inflated goods and services (Apple for phones, Microsoft for software, Kroger for groceries) and pay a dividend could provide you an investment double-whammy.
Weird Story of the Week
The Tokyo Olympic nightmare continues. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Japan announced in March that it had limited in-stadium spectators to only those that already live in Japan, meaning foreigners need not travel. Fast forward to this week, and the new Delta variant spread has led to the Japanese government now banning ALL spectators, meaning the vibes for the Olympics this year are going to be way off. Even getting to Japan is becoming a struggle. The Fijian team wins the Gold Medal for creativity by hitching a ride to Japan in a cargo plane full of frozen fish.
Stock of the Week
The market giveth, and the market taketh away. This week, it took hard.
Chinese ride-sharing company DiDi (NYSE: DIDI) make its triumphant debut on the public markets last week, and with some pretty phenomenal fundamentals. The "Uber of China" boasts over 90% market share in the country (compared to Uber's less than 35% market share in the U.S). It debuted at $14 a share, making it's $68 billion market capitalization one of the biggest IPO's of the year. Then, like Miley Cyrus through a wall, China came in like a wrecking ball.
On Tuesday, the Chinese government ordered the removal of Didi from major mobile app stores while it investigated cyber security concerns with the company. The stock plunged 19.5% when the markets opened, and then it got worse. The Chinese government is now mandating that DiDi remove 25 other applications on mobile stores that the company owns and operates, and American Congressmen are now demanding an investigation into the IPO in the wake of a report that China requested a delay to the IPO. Buckle up, folks. This could evolve into one of those precedent-setting cases that results in regulation changes for Chinese-based companies and their American Depository Receipts.
Thanks for joining us this week, and enjoy the weekend! Don't forget to sign up for our email list below so you can get these sent directly your inbox!

domain: news


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For Immediate Release
Carlisle Proves the Tuner/Custom Car Movement Still Alive!
2010 Carlisle Performance & Style Event: More Cars, More People
Monday, May 17, 2010
The feeling among many in the automotive industry and hobby is that the custom/tuner car and truck hobby is not as strong as it was five to eight years ago. Despite record winds and unseasonably cold weather, Carlisle Performance & Style proved over the weekend of May eighth and ninth, at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds, that enthusiasts involved today are even more passionate about their hobby than ever before! Carlisle Events, one of the world’s largest presenters of car, truck and motorcycle events hosted the fourteenth year of the Carlisle Performance & Style event and the enthusiasts came in droves. Vehicles that registered for the showfield were up over 5% from Performance & Style 2009, with almost 1,600 vehicles. With the cars came the people; attendees came through the Carlisle gates to see the cars, special displays, competitions and entertainment.
Highlights from the Carlisle Performance & Style event weekend included SEMA showcase vehicles on display and three special invitational displays – celebrating three aspects of the hobby (WR Team’s Tuned in T: celebrating Tuner/Sport-Compacts; RIX Magazine VIP/Luxury Lane: showcasing custom luxury vehicles; and the Modern Muscle/Import Performance Pavilion: highlighting domestic and import cars built for performance). In addition to the fantastic cars and trucks on display, the weekend included two model search/bikini contests, drifting exhibitions, auto-cross racing, free-style moto-cross exhibitions, a rap battle, club games, graffiti displays, the famous Carlisle burnout contest and much more! The excitement will continue next May, with the 15th edition of Carlisle Performance & Style – May 14-15. Patrick Lemay, Event Manager for Carlisle Performance & Style, had this to say about this year’s turnout and next year’s event, “Now that the world knows we are here (custom/tuner enthusiasts), let’s show everyone that Carlisle is the place to enjoy and showcase our passion in an even bigger way in 2011!”
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Journalist note: Information about Carlisle Events, its event listings, auction offerings and the Carlisle Expo Center is available to journalists by phone:
717-243-7855 ext. 133
# # #


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Robbie Bach, president of Microsoft's entertainment and devices division, said it had been a "challenging year" for Windows Mobile, but things were set to improve with the release of Windows Mobile 6.5 later this year.
"You will have a very rich browsing experience on [Windows Mobile] 6.5 devices," he told analysts during a recent financial briefing. "It will give you access to more websites than you will be able to get to on an iPhone that will work actively and work well. It really is a much better experience."
Well, I'm not sure about that, but it's nice to see that Microsoft is finally waking up on mobile browsing. Can't wait to get an official 6.5 release.
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Tired of what he called "the bureaucracy of the big corporation," Ron Weber ended a 25-year career as a sales rep for manufacturers and dealers of office supplies and in 2005 bought Minnesota Computer Supply Co., a company that distributed computer accessories in the Twin Cities area.
Weber, 50, proceeded to expand the scope of the Plymouth-based business to include a broad array of office supplies and hoisted sales nearly 50 percent in three years, from $400,000 in 2005 to $590,000 last year. The company, now called Minnesota Computer & Office Supply, is on track to gross $650,000 in 2009 sales.
But all this was just buying time for Weber to reach his main objective, which was to mine the Internet in pursuit of some real growth.
It appears he hit the mother lode. Late in 2007, he founded iBuyOfficeSupply.com, an e-tailer of 50,000 stock-keeping units (SKUs) of office supplies and furnishings ranging from pencils and paper clips to clipboards and clocks and from calculators and vacuum cleaners to desks and chairs. Oh, yes, and Starbucks coffee and the equipment to brew it.
With a price-driven strategy based on a low-cost business model, Weber built iBuy's sales in 2008, its first full year, to $2 million. And with sales growing 10 percent a month for the past six months, the business is on track to approach $4 million in 2009 sales, he said.
"The perfect order for us is one we never touch," Weber said of iBuy's business model, which allows the company to survive in competition with the brawny likes of Staples, Office Depot and Office Max.
Translation: The company has no warehouses, owns no inventory and has most of its orders entered by customers online and processed automatically.
Seventy percent of the orders are filled by two major wholesalers with 90 warehouses scattered across the country, an arrangement that allows for one-day delivery in most cases. The other 30 percent of sales are large orders directly from the manufacturer at discount prices that iBuy negotiates. Clients range from school districts and individuals buying for their home offices to Fortune 500 companies and the federal government.
The upshot: iBuy has just seven employees, including Weber and John Jordan, a veteran Internet marketing specialist who labors as iBuy's director of online operations and makes the business click with optimization strategies that maximize website hits when consumers go searching for office supplies.
Equally important, Jordan, 48, has built relationships with more than 400 affiliate websites on which iBuy can be found and which collect small commissions on each sale they generate.
In short, their skills and experience complement each other perfectly, Weber said.
The focus, from top to bottom, is on price. Pricing on key items is changed up or down daily to reflect competitive moves or consumer demand. And across-the-board analysis of the pricing structure is conducted quarterly to assure competitiveness.
Meanwhile, the hunt for cost savings can involve even small items in the budget. For example, growing volume and tough negotiation have reduced payments to processors of iBuy credit-card sales from 3 to 2 percent of sales, which saves nearly $1,700 a month.
And work is outsourced whenever possible, including website programming and database management.
Weber expects growth trends to continue for several reasons, including the addition of 15,000 new products to the iBuy website in January and the listing of 14,000 SKUs on Amazon.com in February.
In addition, Weber cut a deal in March with an international shipping company to distribute orders overseas, and in the second quarter iBuy will add a Canadian website to be served by one of its U.S. wholesalers with five Canadian warehouses. Initially, the website will offer about 9,000 of the bestselling SKUs.
Perhaps most important, iBuy has reached agreement with a wholesaler of medical supplies used in the home to begin marketing items ranging from walkers, wheelchairs and adjustable canes to blood-pressure kits, diabetic supplies and carpal-tunnel braces.
Weber also is in negotiation with another wholesaler to add industrial items to his catalog such as safety helmets and glasses, hand tools and ladders and small engines and power washers.
All of which raises the question: What recession? Indeed, iBuy's pricing strategy clearly is attracting customers bent on savings as the economy nosedives.
In fact, even as Weber was describing the business for a visiting newshound, an order from a prominent customer for 15,000 small golf pencils popped into the iBuy system.
The customer: the Staples corporate office in New Jersey.
Dick Youngblood • 612-673-4439 • firstname.lastname@example.org
We apologize for the inconvenience.


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Acer presents its Liquid Glow smartphone at the 2012 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. Based on the Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich operating system, this smartphone brings the ultimate balance between style, performance and affordability — ideal for today’s fun-seeking, social-networking youth.
Android based network to study cyber disruptions – Sandia
As part of ongoing research to help prevent and mitigate disruptions to computer networks on the Internet, researchers at Sandia National Laboratories in California have turned their attention to smartphones and other hand-held computing devices. Sandia cyber researchers linked together 300,000 virtual hand-held computing devices running the Android operating system so they can study large


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On average employees lose 70 working days a year due to workplace distractions
UK businesses are losing out on an estimated £250m a year due to unproductive and ‘distracted’ employees, according to a report by the University of Leeds and Samsung Electronics UK.
The report, titled ‘Ahead of the Curve Report’, found that loud talkers (57%), ringing phones (39%), unnecessary meetings (26%) and emails (22%) were the top distractions, with 38% of employees claiming that their workflow is interrupted every 15 minutes in order to check emails.
Other office disruptions cited in the survey included office gossip (16%) and fellow staff members typing loudly (12%).
While office distractions were found to cause significant issues for employee concentration with 22% of flexible workers admitting to being more productive at home, home-based workers also admitted to being distracted.86% of home-based workers confessed that they get side-tracked, with the main distractions cited by respondents being the people they live with (36%), housework (36%), television (27%) and pets (15%).
Graham Long, vice president of Samsung’s Enterprise Business Team, commented on the report:
“Today’s workplace is an ‘always on’ environment and as workers, we are more distracted, and more connected, than ever before.
“The trend for working with more than one desktop display has been growing steadily in the past few years and it’s becoming clear that businesses are increasingly turning to a multi-screen environments to help employees manage their work content more effectively.”


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Qualcomm has beat analysts’ revenue and earnings estimates in its fourth fiscal quarter despite a year-long legal battle with Apple.
Qualcomm booked $5.96 billion in sales, or 92 cents per share, versus expectations of $5.8 billion and 81 cents per-share as the overall economics of the chip business continue to improve.
The numbers were good enough to bump shares of the stock up 54 cents (or 1 percent) in after-hours trading, to $54.00.
Qualcomm’s ongoing legal battle with Apple was not enough to completely overtake strength elsewhere in its business — including with Android handset makers like Samsung, Alphabet, LG and Xiaomi.
Indeed, as it looks out to next year, Qualcomm sees sales buoyed by increasing 3G and 4G penetration and growth in both the handset and Internet of Things markets, according to chief executive Steve Mollenkopf.
Chief among the reasons for Qualcomm’s stronger numbers is growth in the company’s business in China with original equipment manufacturers there.
As new technologies roll out, including 5G connectivity internationally, Qualcomm said it was well positioned to capture a significant piece of that market.
“We are very excited about the increased momentum of 5G around the world,” Mollenkopf said.
Still, Apple’s litigation is waiting in the wings. In January, Apple sued Qualcomm for just about $1 billion, for charging a hefty price for royalties on technologies that Apple said the chipmaker should not be associated with. Apple also alleged that the chipmaker had been withholding payments it was owed.
At issue is Qualcomm’s charges of a percentage of the total price of iPhones and other Apple products as the licensing fee for some Qualcomm patents.
Qualcomm has counter-sued, claiming patent infringement based on technologies Apple is buying from the chipmaker’s largest rival, Intel.
The company has already been fined $774 million by the Taiwanese regulatory agency for antitrust violations in a ruling that came down in October. Qualcomm has said it would appeal the decision.
Regulators in Korea and China have also dinged Qualcomm for anticompetitive practices, with Korea fining the company $854 million and the Chinese government leveling a $975 million charge against Qualcomm in 2015.
The spat between the two companies has apparently spilled into hardware design — as the world’s largest hardware manufacturer reportedly begins designing products without Qualcomm chips.
The billion-dollar spat with Apple has also taken its toll on Qualcomm’s share price, which has declined precipitously over the past year.
Yet all is not lost for the chipmaker. Its giant $47 billion bid for fellow semiconductor manufacturer NXP has been approved in the U.S. and is moving through the approvals process in Europe and China.
Earlier this month, NXP’s management said the $110 per-share price tag was a good deal for its own shareholders and it seems like the deal will wrap up in the early part of 2018.
That acquisition would position Qualcomm well against rival chipmakers Nvidia and Intel in the growing market for automotive technologies and in the burgeoning smart home and smart manufacturing categories.


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INDIANAPOLIS -- A bill that would allow for the sale and use of cannabis-derived CBD oil across the state is on its way to Gov. Eric Holcomb's desk.
The measure was overwhelmingly approved Wednesday by both the House and Senate in the closing hours of this year's legislative session.
Senate Bill 52 legalizes CBD oil as long as it has a THC level that is .3 percent or lower.
Cannabidiol, commonly referred to as CBD oil, is derived from marijuana and hemp but lacks the stuff that will get you high.
A law passed last year allowed those with a severe form of epilepsy to use the substance. Now lawmakers are going further, following an unexpected crackdown on CBD sales and widespread confusion over whether the product was actually legal.


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A new IBM global survey of over 32,000 consumers reveals that technology is givingconsumers a new source of power - pushing companies to engage them more directly via increased use of personalized promotions and offerings. However, companies need greater analytic tools to better understand the data flowing in from multiple channels.
To help retailers address these operational mandates, IBM has launched a new Center of Competency for Retail that will provide deep industry expertise in the areas of business analytics, customer insights and merchandising. By bringing together talent and technology assets, IBM hopes its new center will help companies make the best use of technology to streamline costs, reduce inefficiencies, aid product development and speed go-to-market activities, while also helping these companies build new capabilities to better understand, track and respond to consumer
The IBM study found customer data is likely to flow from a number of channels - and that consumers are more than willing to engage in two-way interactions via these channels. For example, 79% will use the web, 75% will use mobile phones, and 66% will use online channels to check on product availability.
In addition, the study found that 33% of respondents are somewhat or very likely to "follow" a company on a social networking site. But a value exchange is required. For instance, consumers want to follow retailers that will provide them with new samples to try, preferred customer status for special promotions or advanced sales, as well as allow them to influence product development and new service offerings. Younger consumers are even more likely to follow a company.
The survey also found that most consumers-whether or not they use social media - are more interested in providing constructive suggestions than they are in voicing criticism. Seventy-eight percent of respondents are willing to collaborate with companies to co-create new products and services that meet their needs. Traditional business intelligence and analysis solutions can help sift through this interactive data, but there are also text-mining tools available to measure sentiment.
"We are in a shopper's market today, because consumer access to technology and information gives them all the power," says Jill Puleri, IBM global industry retail executive for IBM Global Business Services. "Retailers cannot afford to sit still as this digital revolution happens. They must engage plugged-in consumers in new and different ways, on their terms, and with more bi-directional feedback and dialogue."
For more details, go here.


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It happens sometimes that tablet cases will be leaked in advance of a product unveiling for a tablet or smartphone, and this may be just such an occasion, as a possible iPad Pro 2020 case may have leaked, according to an image leaked by Ben Geskin, and later reported in detail at MacRumors.
MacRumors also writes that there’s an increasing amount of talk about an Apple event on March 31, so we could see some new iPad Pros unveiled then.
The estimated launch dates for the new iPad Pros have been unusually imprecise for a long time though. Currently, the consensus right now seem to be split between a March launch and a Q3 launch for the new iPad Pros.
But it could be that both of them are correct if we take some ques from Samsung and Huawei. Both of these tablet brands have launched their latest flagship tablets in Wi-Fi and 4G iterations first, and then 5-6 months later with a 5G option too, at a separate event.
A 5G iPad is expected in the second half of 2020, based on previous information from supply chain insiders.
- Apple iPad Pro 12.9 Now Expected In Q3 2020
- 5G iPads May Launch In Second Half Of 2020 According To Industry Insiders
– Tom Bowen


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9/15/2009 4:51:00 PM
Kondor signs American accessories deal
Kondor has signed a deal with an American audio visual brand Monster to distribute headphones designed by pop acts including Dr Dre and Lady GaGa.
The exclusive deal, which was signed on 14 September, will include products aimed retailers with an audio focus.
Dr Dre’s brand, Beats and Lady GaGa’s product, Heartbeats are designed to ensure that listeners can fully appreciate the music they listen to on their phones.
Other products include iPod and iPhone accessories and a retailer is yet to be secured.
Kondor managing director, Rob Haycock, said: ‘We are delighted to have signed this exclusive UK deal with Monster. Monster were looking for a distributor that understands the growing mobile music market and one that is recognised for its audio expertise and retailer reach across all channels. Kondor fit that bill.’


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The 40th edition of GITEX Technology Week kicked off on the 6th of December 2020 at the Dubai World Trade Center, with Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai inaugurating the event.
Attendees include dignitaries and leading global organizations from several industries to showcase over 1200 innovative tech exhibitions, share business portfolios, network, and create lasting business partnerships with other participants from over 60 countries.
Amidst the global pandemic, the UAE government has ensured that appropriate safety measures exist starting with the certification of the venue by the Bureau Veritas SafeGuard, verifying its compliance with the highest hygiene standards and effectively controlling the crowd size, ensuring they wear masks, have their temperature taken and maintain a safe social distance of 2 meters between guests Exhibition categories comprise of AI (Artificial Intelligence), cloud computing, cybersecurity, cloud services, technology for the healthcare sector, smart retail, flying cars, smart cars, robotics, and drones; alongside a conference lineup of over 350 in-person innovative speakers from 30 countries.
At the peak and thrill of the many attendees are exhibitions from Adran (37 years, London born, blue-colored, AI-powered humanoid robot), Future Flying Uber Taxi, Boston Dynamics Robot dog, Etisalat Virtual Reality simulation experience, among many other innovative solutions.
Day two wrapped up with a dance competition that lit up the atmosphere and attracted the attention of attendees as it involved an interactive voting process.
With three more days to go, the event only gets more interesting for her very many attendees inspiring hope, connectivity, and future innovations.
Content Source: Crenov8
Image Source: Dubai Media Office


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The robust flavor of Heavy Seas Beer's Plank III -- the Belgian-style Trippel recently named "Best of Show: Best Overall Maryland Beer" by the Brewers' Association of Maryland at the annual Comptroller's Cup -- comes from a pimento tree.
The idea that beer has just as much right as wine to be on a fancy dinner table is not a novelty. And during the annual Baltimore Beer Week celebration, which begins on Friday, it's a matter of principle.
Whiskey Island Mick, a former stunt man turned spice maker and bartender who was known for his colorful pepper-inspired kilts and bandannas, died Sunday from cardiac arrest at his Annapolis home. He was 48.
By By Frederick N. Rasmussen and The Baltimore Sun
In the world of tap handles, Mark Supik's shop has emerged as the preferred provider of custom-designed tap handles for the regional brewers, microbrewers and start-ups that compose the craft-beer movement.


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CHICAGO -- Mirroring trends seen in brick-and-mortar, where high-end retail and value brands are draining operators in the middle, the extremes of superpremium and deep discount within the tobacco category appear to be causing similar strains on premium and discount brands—with category innovation defying all trends.
Retailers staying on top of those turbulent forces are reaping the benefits, said Don Burke, senior vice president of Management Science Associates Inc. (MSA), Pittsburgh. Speaking at CSP’s recent Behind the Counter tobacco conference in Chicago, Burke said convenience stores are seeing strong growth in superpremium cigarettes, large cigars, moist smokeless and vapor products.
The big picture involves multiple, socioeconomic circumstances, but a common thread for c-store retailers is rising gasoline prices. “Economic factors like gas prices are slowly creeping up in consumers’ mindsets,” Burke told the 60 attendees at the summer conference.
Tobacco consumers pressured by rising prices at the pump and in household goods are either trading up for higher-quality product or trading down to get more for their money, he said.
More specifically, shipment volumes of premium cigarettes from wholesale to retail have seen a 6% decline in the first quarter of the year vs. the same period in 2017. At the same time, superpremium cigarettes saw a slight gain of 2.2%. Assuming that some customers might have simply stopped smoking, Burke said a causal relationship could possibly involve an in-for-a-penny mindset, where a customer who is already paying a higher price point may trade up to get the best of the best.
At the other end of the spectrum, discount cigarettes saw a 9.2% decline, while deep-discount brands saw a 1% increase in shipment volume. Here too, a causal relationship could mean that a value-price customer, when pressured by an overall perception of rising prices, may simply opt for the cheapest cigarette they can buy.
Meanwhile, e-cigarette cartridges for closed-system vaping devices have seen shipment volumes grow 40.6% in first-quarter 2018 vs. the same period in 2017. Though making up a mere 0.6% of total nicotine volume in the first quarter, vaping has shown the greatest percentage gains of all tobacco subsegments, Burke said.


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We have two seasons in this province – winter and construction, especially road construction. That may have caused people to defer the decision to buy a new vehicle.
We recently received the monthly sales figures for automotive dealers in the province for April. They generated a little more than $200 million in revenue for the month on the strength of 4,420 new vehicle purchases. The figures don’t include volumes for used or pre-owned units.
That is virtually the same as March and down about 100 vehicles from April of last year, breaking the trend that had emerged that showed consumers had rediscovered their mojo. We had seen improved sales volumes for the previous few months after a difficult year, one that had buyers either deferring the acquisition of a new vehicle by holding on to their existing unit or opting to go with used rather than new.
In general terms, we are headed into the much stronger summer buying season, suggesting dealers and consumers alike can look forward to at least a few upbeat months where growing numbers of people are picking up that new ride.


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If you find yourself in the emergency room needing stitches, you’re obviously going to hope that whoever performs those stitches on you knows what they’re doing. There’s not much need to worry – medical students receive incredibly thorough training, practicing all procedures on simulators multiple times before they ever have to try them on a patient. You may wonder, however, about the quality of those simulators. How close are they, in fact, to reproducing the properties of human tissue? It can be quite a different experience to practice on a training model than it is to work on an actual human being.
3D printing has improved the quality of training models so that they are about as close as a student can get to practicing on a human being. One company in particular, San Draw Medical, specializes in 3D printed training models that are highly realistic, thanks to advanced silicone 3D printing technology. Its suture simulator mimics human skin in all of its complexity, with its multiple layers and varying textures and thicknesses. Another model allows students to get a feel for giving injections to a real patient.
Now San Draw Medical has improved further on its suture training model by giving students something to suture. In traditional simulators, students have to cut the skin pad themselves with a scalpel, and it’s difficult to make a cut that actually resembles a real wound that a human would have. In addition, wounds created with the scalpel will be different every time, so it’s hard for the students to standardize their suturing technique.
San Draw is now 3D printing skin pads with multiple wounds already part of them. There are several different types of wounds that people can suffer, and San Draw designed eight of the most common ones for the simulator with the help of surgeons. Each type has a recommended suture for the students to practice. Customers can customize their pads with any of 256 selections.
“The silicone 3D printed wounds look and feel super realistic, and I believe this product can benefit thousands of students,” Dr. John Wu, Chief Innovation Officer of CEMS, Taipei Medical University, told 3DPrint.com.
San Draw debuted the new simulator at IMSH 2018, a major medical simulation conference and trade show, which took place from January 13th to 17th in Los Angeles. According to San Draw, the company drew a great deal of attention at the show, with several medical professionals trying out the new simulator.
You may not have realized there were so many different types of wounds, and that they all need different kinds of stitches, but it’s reassuring to think that now medical students can practice specific sutures for those specific wounds, rather than just stitching up a cut made by a scalpel. As medical training simulators get more complex and realistic, medical care gets better, and fewer errors are made. That’s comforting to a patient who has a nasty cut – it’s now more likely that the doctor stitching them up, no matter how new at his or her job, has done exactly this before.
Discuss this and other 3D printing topics at 3DPrintBoard.com or share your thoughts below.[Images provided by San Draw Medical]
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As equipment rolls over the finish line for the 2021 growing season, September sales numbers are in from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).
In Canada’s 2WD tractor market, less than 40 HP tractors saw a steady increase of 13.5 per cent year-over-year, rounding out at 1717 sold units. Total 2WD farm tractors saw a 7.7 per cent increase for the same time period.
On the other hand, the 4WD tractor category is down significantly by 24.3 per cent year-over-year.
Self-propelled combines experienced almost the opposite effect — with a 23.5 per cent increase from September 2020, up to 142 units.
In the U.S., it was the 100+ HP tractors that experienced the largest climb in the 2WD tractor category, at 23.0 per cent. Much like the Canadian market, 4WD tractors had a slight drop of 1.3 per cent year-over-year, to 369 units. Self-propelled combines in the U.S. increased the most overall, up 34.6 per cent to 848 units.
Check out the full report from AEM, here.


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|WMECo Posts Rate Decrease|
02:19PM / Wednesday, June 02, 2010
Western Mass. Electric Co. says its residential and commercial and industrial who purchase their energy supply through WMECo will see a decrease in supply rates beginning July 1.
The drop in price is a result of the latest round of competitive bidding, according to Peter Clarke, president and chief operating officer of WMECo. He added that "Summer, however, is traditionally the time of year when energy consumption increases, so we encourage all customers to review their energy use and consider ways to conserve."
From July 1 to Dec. 31, residential customers will see a supply rate of 7.647 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh), a 7 percent decrease over the current fixed rate of
Read More >>


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Final month, the Artifact information app launched an choice for customers to flag an article as clickbait. Now, the app based by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger has launched a brand new function to let AI rewrite a headline for you when you come throughout such an article.
The app makers mentioned that if a person marks a title as clickbait, the app calls on a GPT-4 mannequin to rewrite the headline.
On the time of launching the clickbait flagging function Artifact mentioned that it has a guide course of to vet articles to mark them as clickbait after a number of customers report them.
With the brand new replace, if an article is marked as clickbait by the Arificat staff, AI will rewrite the headline for all customers. Folks will see a star icon subsequent to the headline to point that AI has rewritten it.
Moreover, the startup is already engaged on tech to detect clickbait articles with out counting on guide reporting. It mentioned that when that system is in place, the app will robotically detect and rewrite headlines.
With these options, the app is taking numerous editorial accountability on itself that starting from appropriately figuring out clickbait articles and using AI to rewrite headlines that aren’t deceptive themselves. However the firm is just not shy of taking these steps.
In an interview with TechCrunch in March, Systrom admitted that working of a information app entails taking editorial selections not directly.
“Truly, constructing the algorithm is enormously editorial. “As a result of what you select to coach your algorithm on — the target operate, the info you set in, the info you embrace, the info you don’t embrace — is all in editorial judgment. The best way you weigh completely different goals,” he mentioned.


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Bad news for online shoppers – it looks like Visa will be following Mastercard’s lead by hiking its interchange fee.
An interchange fee is basically a transaction fee that merchants pay whenever a customer uses a credit or debit card. The money goes to the card issuing bank, rather than Visa, to cover things like admin fees, and loss through fraud and bad debts.
At the moment, Visa charges EU merchants 0.3% for credit card and 0.2% for debit card payments, regardless of whether the transaction is in person or online.
But it seems the card provider will be moving UK-issued cards from the Intra Visa Europe interchange fees bracket to the Inter Visa Europe interchange fees one, which means that the fees will become 1.5% for credit card and 1.15% for debit card payments made online.
Like Mastercard, in-person payments are not affected.
Visa hasn’t publicly announced the change yet, so we don’t know when this will come into effect, but Sky News made the revelation earlier this week.
As I explained previously, the effects are purely speculative at the moment.
Interchange fees are paid by merchants rather than consumers, and under EU law, merchants are not allowed to pass these fees directly onto consumers anymore.
But that doesn’t mean the charges won’t be passed on in some other way, for example, if a merchant sets different prices for different currencies or increases the service charge or shipping fees for UK orders.
It would also be interesting to see whether this will increase demand for alternative forms of payment, such as Klarna.


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TVS Motor Company has announced the launch of a new Matte Silver shade for its popular 125 cc scooter - TVS NTorq 125. The new colour has been launched to commemorate the NTorq 125 becoming the most awarded scooter in India in the 2018-19 financial year, by winning 9 automotive industry awards. The new special edition Matte Silver NTorq will also feature a special 'Scooter of the Year' insignia on the front apron to differentiate it from the regular NTroq scooters. Furthermore, the new TVS NTorq 125 Matte Silver option will be only available in the disc brake variant, which is currently priced at ₹ 59,995. The drum brake variant is priced at ₹ 58,552 (both ex-showroom, Delhi).
First launched in February 2018, the TVS NTorq 125 was the first 125 cc scooter in India to come with a connected technology called Smartxonnect, featuring a fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation. This, of course, is in addition to a bunch of smart features and aggressive styling. The scooter comes with features like T-shaped taillamp, 12-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, Batwing-style daytime running lamps, afterburner style rear vents, and stubby tyres. The NTorq 125 also comes with multiple modes - street, sport, and ride stats, along with a lap timer and call and SMS alerts.
Performance-wise, the TVS NTorq 125 is powered by a CVTi-REVV 124.79cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, 3-valve, air-cooled SOHC engine, that is tuned to churns out around 9.3 bhp at 7500 rpm and develops a peak torque of 10.5 Nm at 5500 rpm. The scooter comes with a top speed of 95 kmph, and is the most powerful offering in TVS' scooter line up. The NTorq 125 comes with telescopic front forks and gas-filled hydraulic type coil spring shock absorber at the rear. The 12-inch wheels are shod in 100x80 mm tyres up front and 110x80 mm rubber at the rear. Braking duties are handled by a 220 mm disc up front and a 130 mm drum unit at the rear.
In addition to the new Matte Silver share, the TVS NTorq 125 will continue to be offered in the existing 6 colour options - Matte Yellow, Matte White, Matte Red, Metallic Blue, Metallic Grey and Metallic Red. The NTorq 125 has also crossed the 2-lakh sales milestone in India in less than 1 year of its launch.


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Imagine an ID card that remembers all of your personal records. This one card serves as your driver’s license and a catch-all that includes information about your health insurance, tax payments, and bank accounts. Oh, and it’s a MasterCard.
Now imagine you’re required to have it to vote. By 2019, that will be the case in Nigeria, where the government is running a large-scale pilot program with MasterCard, the U.S. credit card giant. An initial 13 million Nigerians will participate in the pilot program, but all those above the age of 16 — a whopping 160 million people — are expected to carry the cards by 2019.


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What's become an annual, unsuccessful push for Idaho to tax Internet sales got started in the state's House Revenue and Taxation Committee.
The latest bill was discussed on Monday.
Similar bills have failed the last four years
Proponents say it's only fair to tax Internet sales, because not doing so puts brick-and-mortar businesses at a 6 percent disadvantage, the rate of the state's sales tax.
Some lawmakers want to join a national effort to voluntarily tax Internet sales, at least until Congress acts to require it.
But it's been a tough slog, since so many of Idaho's lawmakers don't like taxes, even if the debate is framed in terms of tax fairness.
One thing that's changed this year is, Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter came out in favor, at least in concept.


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The POCO F1 is turning out to be the deal of the year. Retailing for the equivalent of $300, the phone is currently the most affordable device to be powered by the Snapdragon 845. POCO had to cull a few features to get to that $300 figure, and as such the F1 misses out on NFC.
The lack of NFC doesn't hinder sales in India, where the device is primarily targeted. But with the phone set to go on sale in over 50 global markets — including 30 European markets — the omission of NFC could turn out to be a dealbreaker.
Furthermore, the POCO F1 isn't quite as affordable in global markets, with the phone retailing for €330 ($385) in Spain. You do get a lot for the asking price, including 6GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, a MicroSD slot, dual 12MP + 5MP cameras at the back, 20MP front shooter, and a massive 4000mAh battery with Quick Charge 3.0.
On the software side of things, the POCO F1 is running a custom version of MIUI that includes a launcher and other tweaks to make it more palatable to a Western audience. The skin is based on Android 8.1 Oreo, with POCO stating that it will roll out the Pie update in the coming months.
If NFC is a feature that you absolutely need to have in a phone, there's always the Nokia 7 Plus. It's available officially in the UK for £299 ($385), and while the Snapdragon 660 isn't as powerful, you do get NFC and the promise of quick updates with Android One.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
OnePlus 8 launch event to go ahead as planned as camera details leak out
A new leak has shed light on the camera hardware of OnePlus' upcoming flagship phone. The OnePlus 8 Pro will have a 48MP primary sensor, 48MP ultra-wide-angle lens, an 8MP telephoto lens, and a 5MP "color filter."
Daily Coronavirus updates: US COVID-19 death toll could exceed 100,000
COVID-19 has already infected over 720,000 people globally and caused over 34,000 fatalities. It has also had a huge impact on the tech industry, affecting the global supply chain and causing interminable product delays. Here are all the ways the coronavirus is affecting the world.
Control's Foundation DLC shows Remedy's still in top form
Remedy takes us back to the Oldest House on another exciting mission to save the Federal Bureau of Control. If this expansion is any indication, the next one potentially involving Alan Wake should be incredible.
People into rooting and modding should check out these phones
If you're looking ahead and know you'll want to change something on your next phone that requires custom software or root access, these phones are the best options.


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Vinexpo Hong Kong salutes Italy’s continued rise in terms of wine production and exports. China and Hong Kong are importing increasing volumes of Italian wine, with 2.63 million 9-litre cases exported to the region every year, making Italy the 5th biggest wine supplier to China and 6th biggest to Hong Kong.
With over 606 sqm the Italian pavilion at Vinexpo will house more than 60 premium Italian wine producers and exporters. Some of the prestigious Italian wineries present at the show include; Biondi Santi, Chianti Classico, Antinori and Masi Agricola to name a few. The best labels of traditional Italian liquors will be on hand, ranging from vermouth to gin and more.
To promote ‘Made in Italy’ wines, and to highlight excellent-quality, as well as the less-known wines, Vinexpo Hong Kong will be hosting a range of conferences, masterclasses and seminars led by experts in the field of wine.
On Wednesday,25 May (from 8.30-9.30amat the Vinexpo Academy Level 2, room 211/212) James Suckling and Vinexpo CEO Guillaume Deglise will host a seminar”Piccola Colazione con James Suckling”, on business opportunities for Italian wines in Asia Pacific. It will address up-and-coming wine regions in Italy, challenges facing Italian wine production, and what Italians can do to better promote their wines in Asia. Entry is free.
Vinexpo has teamed up with Michel Bettane and Thierry Desseauve, two highly-respected, leading wine critics and writers from France and created the brand Vinexpo feat. bettane+ desseauve, a new event concept featuring a series of tastings and masterclasses during the show. With reference to Italy, the duo will be presenting Italian Classics at their Best: Northern Italy, which they feel is one of the most exciting viticulture regions. (Tuesday, 25May, 1p.m. to 2p.m. Level 1 , room 101B) The second event, Italian Classics at their Best: Central & Southern Italy, is a master class which aims to show the brilliant personalities of the great red wines from Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany and Abruzzo (Wednesday, 25 May, 5p.m. to 6p.m. Level 1, room 101B).
The Italian Trade Commission (ICE) will organize a series of tastings led by some of the greatest Italy specialists at the heart of the Italian Pavilion: Debra Meiburg MW will lead a seminar on, Barolo: The Wine of The Kings, The King of Wines on 24 May (from 2.30pm – 4pm). Then the following day Debra will host “Italian Heritage, Southern White Varieties” from 2:30pm – 4pm. Lastly on 26 May, Debra will present the Montepulciano, Pecorino & Sagrantino Grapes, a Pride of Central Italy. Mr. Nelson Chow, the Chairman of Hong Kong Sommelier Association will host the Italian Heritage, Southern Red Varieties on 25 May from 11:00am– 12:30pm, Sangiovese and Friends on 25 May and The Rarity of Italy on 26 May.
The Italian wine guide ‘Gambero Rosso’ is showcasing an exclusive selection of top Italian wines and spirits with a tasting on Wednesday, 25 May from 10am-1pm in the Grand Foyer – and a Masterclass presented by Massimo d’Addezio on Thursday 26 May from 10-11.30am at the Vinexpo Academy ( Level 2 room 209/210). This will be a masterclass seminar dedicated to premium Italian spirits.
To further support Italian wines, The Blend / Aperitivo Italiano – Vinexpo’s after-show networking event – will feature Italian Chefs from around Hong Kong preparing Italian dishes. This social highlight will be held on Wednesday, 25 May from 6 – 8:30pm in the Grand Foyer and hosted by Italy’s most flamboyant bartender, Roman maestro, Massimo d’Addezio, who was the winner of the Best Bar in the World in 2008 and is most certainly Rome’s most famous bartender. Also attending the event to showcase his talents is mixology aficionado Marco Sabellico, curator of the Vini d’Italia guide and author of multiple works about the world of wine, spirits, and beer.
Wednesday, 25 May 2016
Detailed information on Italy events: www.vinexpohongkong.com/program/32884/


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You can now buy the fantastic Delhi hop-on hop-off open top bus tour tickets online from CityXplora
Online PR News – 19-February-2015 – Edinburgh – Imagine exploring Delhi aboard an open top hop-on hop-off bus? Well booking tickets on one of the world's best hop-on hop-off buses is now even easier thanks to CityXplora.
CityXplora - the online market place for sightseeing bus tours - has teamed up with the Delhi HoHo operators to offer the tickets to their worldwide website visitors. Within a few clicks customers can buy these great value tickets and have them delivered straight to their in-box as an email e-ticket voucher - simple!
Commenting on the Delhi launch, Iain Coupar the director behind CityXplora and this latest online deal said: "The Delhi HoHo bus was launched for the Commonwealth Games in 2010 and has gone from strength to strength. Delhi is now seen as one of the world's most popular tourist destinations which is enjoyed by millions of people every year and what not better way to see this great city is by open top hop-on hop-off bus!"
You can simply buy the Delhi tickets by searching 'dehli hop on hop off cityxplora'


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The company initially planned to stop rolling out app updates to Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 on July 1, 2023, according to the original schedule.
“You’ll still be in a position to publish updates to any or all apps (including individuals with Windows 8 and 8.1 packages). However, these updates will only be distributed around Windows 10 devices,” the company told developers in the announcement.
But because reported on Twitter by @nawzil10, the deadline was quietly gone to live in July 1, 2019. “Microsoft will stop distributing app updates to Windows Phone 8.x or earlier devices, and Windows 8,” the message now reads.
What’s vital that you know is that this updated schedule only concerns Windows 8, and never Windows 8.1. Based on Microsoft’s announcement, Windows 8.1 app updates continue to be projected to become retired on July 1, 2023.
“Windows 8 no more receiving support”
Microsoft pulling support for Windows 8 app updates sooner than anticipated isn’t necessarily surprising news. Not only that Windows 8’s share of the market is currently very small, however the operating system itself no longer receives support since 2016. Users can upgrade to Windows 8.1 free of charge.
In the meantime, Microsoft is pushing harder for Windows 10, so the easiest way to carry on receiving app updates is to upgrade to this latest operating system.
“As a part of our Windows device life-cycle, Microsoft Store will quickly stop accepting newly discovered apps with Windows Phone 8.x or earlier or Windows 8/8.1 packages (XAP and APPX). Right after that date, we will stop distributing app updates to Windows Phone 8.x or earlier and Windows 8/8.1 devices; in those days, updates will only be made available to customers using Windows 10 devices,” Microsoft explains.
Windows 8 was officially launched on October 26, 2012, while Windows 8.1 was introduced only a year later.


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#39;Financial year 2020-21 could be the year for agricultural sector#39;
2020-6-2 07:15 pm
The Union Cabinet on June 1 approved the minimum support price for 14 kharif crops. The higher prices will provide farmers nearly 50-83 percent more than the cost.
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ASL has helped Spectrum Graphics strengthen its offering through the purchase of a Canon imagePRESS C9010VP. The new device will allow the Kent-based family run design and printing service to produce exceptional quality prints, whilst helping it become more efficient and costeffective.
Spectrum Graphics approached ASL in early 2020 looking to purchase a new device that would allow it to broaden its product offering and strengthen its quality of output. The business had worked with multiple print providers in recent years; however, it was experiencing difficulties with its existing product range and the service it was receiving from suppliers.
After exploring products from various manufacturers, Spectrum Graphics invested in the Canon imagePRESS C9010VP, which boasts impressive colour, performance, and consistency. The purchase will help the company grow into new markets, as it can now offer its customers a wider range of outstanding quality products with an extremely high level of consistency.
Will Doherty, Commercial & Industrial Printing Systems Director, ASL Group, said: “We’re delighted we’ve been able to support Spectrum Graphics on its journey, helping the business identify a Canon product that uniquely fits its business needs. We pride ourselves on our consultative approach, and hope that the new device will open up exciting opportunities in the future.”


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Your Day in Health: Cadbury News & More
SCIENCE OF US: If Your Exercise Routine Isn’t Making Any Difference, You May Be a ‘Non-Responder’
“First, let’s get the bad news out of the way: If you’ve been plugging away at the same workout for what seems like forever and you still aren’t seeing much of a change, there’s a good chance you never will. And it’s not for lack of effort, or because you’re doing it wrong — it’s just a quirk of your own unique biology. As the New York Times explained earlier this week, there’s a name for that in exercise science: ‘non-responders,’ people seemingly immune to the beneficial effects of a given workout.” Read full story.
PEOPLE: Oreo Cadbury Creme Eggs Are Now a Thing and the Internet Can’t Handle It
“Those in Canada and Britain are particularly excited (and lucky) because it’s been revealed they’ve had access to Oreo-flavored Cadbury Creme Eggs (!) for more than a year. The news broke when an Instagram post from Junk Banter calling the eggs a ’10/10′ went viral, causing Americans to again consider a mass exodus toward our neighbors to the north (or across the pond).” Read full story.
RELATED: 15 Sauces Worse Than Oreos
MEDICAL DAILY: Does A Vegetarian Diet Make You Sexier?
“As the adage goes, you are what you eat, but what does that mean for those who choose a diet completely void of meat? In a recent article, Psychology Today investigated some of the strangest rumors surrounding a vegetarian diet, and what it does to both your health and sex life.” Read full story.


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Canadian supply chain salary survey reports some get less pay than before
Toronto, ON - Salaries for supply chain professionals working in manufacturing dropped in 2011. In 2010, those professionals earned $83,500, while this year saw them take home $75,400-a difference of $8,100 or 9.7%.
Toronto, ON – Salaries for supply chain professionals working in manufacturing dropped in 2011. In 2010, those professionals earned $83,500, while this year saw them take home $75,400-a difference of $8,100 or 9.7%.
Organizations with 5,000 or more workers saw supply chain salaries drop from $94,100 in 2010 to $93,800 in 2011, down 0.3%. Also experiencing a drop were companies with 250 to 499 employees, with salaries falling 2.5% from $80,700 in 2010 to $78,700 this year.
These are some of the results from the 2011supply chain salary survey which, for the fourth year in a row, Purchasingb2b and M&D magazines (sister publications to Machinery & Equipment MRO) have produced in partnership with the Purchasing Management Association of Canada (PMAC). The survey questionnaire – fielded this summer to PMAC members and supply chain professionals who subscribe to Purchasingb2b and MM&D – drew 1,567 responses.
Those working on a professional SCMP designation saw their salary jump 3.0% from $67,200 on average in 2010 to $69,200 this year. When asked about the importance of a professional designation, 77% of PMAC member respondents said it was important to get ahead in their jobs. For non-PMAC members, 62% said it was important.
PMAC members also took a more positive view of the availability of supply chain jobs. In total, 71% said there were more jobs in supply chain than five years ago (with 23% saying much more). That’s compared to non-PMAC members, 56% of which saw more jobs than five years ago.
Full details of the study can be found on this link: http://www.canadianmanufacturing.com/purchasing-and-procurement/news/the-2011-supply-chain-salary-survey-47825


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UK: Medics Warn Men Over Bra Dangers
Undoing a woman's bra can cause men serious finger injuries more associated to dangerous sports such as rock-climbing, medical experts claimed on Friday.
Plastic surgeons from St George's Hospital in London say up to 40 per cent of young men risk injury to their digits by failing to grasp how to undo the clasp.
In one such case, a man suffered a broken finger and severe ligament damage after catching it as he tried to unhook his lover's bra.
The patient's surgeon, Andrew Fleming, said: "It was a very nasty injury... the type of thing that is more commonly associated with sport, particularly rock climbing."
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A new IPC-A-610 trainer for Elexon Electronics
The introduction to women of typically male-dominated industries is becoming a hot topic.
There are many myths and stereotypes about women in manufacturing.
However, Elexon Electronics has always been successful in creating an inclusive work environment realizing that women are critical to manufacturing’s future.
Kylie Christensen certified for IPC training
Kylie Christensen is a great example of how women can take their professional development and career advancement to the next level.
Kylie has just successfully finished the IPC-A-610 Trainer Course.
She about to start another chapter of her journey within Elexon Electronics manufacturing as the new internal IPC trainer.
Thanks to her achievement, the company is empowered to reach new markets, for instance, the defence industry.
Women at Elexon
Women at Elexon Electronics have always formed the stable core of the company.
Currently, more than one-third of the most crucial roles in management, manufacturing and engineering are occupied by women.
The company takes pride in supporting employees who are looking for a new career path by offering training and employment opportunities.
Congratulations Kylie and thank you for taking on this important role!


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ver a million users of the cryptocurrency exchange Gate.io were at risk of losing money due to an ongoing scam involving a Tether giveaway after hackers took control of the company's official Twitter account.
The most efficient way to connect with the cryptocurrency community is through the social media site Twitter. As a result, the habit of using verified accounts' official Twitter names to promote scams is becoming more popular.
Unknown hackers took control of Gate.io's Twitter account and changed the URL of the website from Gate.io to gte.com (https://xn--gte-ipa.com/) — a fake website pretending to be an exchange.
The fake website actively advertises a fictitious giveaway of 500,000 USDT and requests that visitors connect their wallets (like MetaMask) in order to get the rewards. The moment a person links their wallet to malicious websites, the hackers have access to their existing funds and can start draining their assets.
Peckshield, a blockchain researcher, validated the attack while it was happening by identifying the phishing website and warning users about the possibility of losing private keys.
Cointelegraph contacted authorities to inform them of the ongoing hack and to request information from Gate.io regarding necessary corrective action. Gate.io responded by confirming with Cointelegraph that all users had been informed of the hack and then published a post about it. They added:
“We were made aware as soon as it happened, we have put out a notice and the account was locked down soon after being compromised.”
Investors are encouraged to double-check the website URLs of the trading platforms to guarantee the integrity of the offerings at a time when cryptocurrency frauds are predicted to reach all-time highs.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) of the United States recently issued a warning that scammers are increasingly using cryptocurrency ATMs to collect money from victims.
According to the FBI, con artists utilize wire transfers, prepaid cards, and crypto ATMs to evade law enforcement:
“Many victims report being directed to make wire transfers to overseas accounts or purchase large amounts of prepaid cards. The use of cryptocurrency and cryptocurrency ATMs is also an emerging method of payment. Individual losses related to these schemes ranged from tens of thousands to millions of dollars.”
As soon as the victims agree to pay up, the con artists demand that they pay more taxes, "leading them (investors) to lose additional funds."


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HONOR celebrates the most exciting time of the year with the simultaneous launch of mid-range powerhouses HONOR 9X and HONOR 20 Lite. The announcement comes after HONOR’s successful release of its line of wearables, which include HONOR Band 5 and Watch Magic.
“We are excited to share these two new additions to HONOR’s line of devices. There have been much anticipation surrounding the arrival of these smartphones and, now that they are here, we invite everyone to test out the premium quality offered by HONOR 9X and HONOR 20 Lite,” said Kevin Wu, Country Manager of HONOR Mobile Philippines.
Successors of the smartphone blockbusters HONOR 8X and 10 Lite, the latest gadgets from HONOR has been in the radar of tech enthusiasts since early this year. HONOR 9X is sought-after for its combined gaming and lifestyle capabilities, powered by features like a high-spec triple camera and HONOR’s signature GPU 3.0 Turbo technology. HONOR 20 Lite, meanwhile, zooms in on delivering effortless beauty with its “32MP Selfie Master” camera.
Both phones remain well within the budget, with HONOR 9X retailing at Php 12,490 and chic HONOR 20 Lite available for only Php 9,990.
For a full overview of these powerhouses, you may check out the table below:
HONOR 20 Lite
Xtraordinary Camera for Photography and Videography
Triple Camera; 48MP Main with f/1.8 aperture, 8MP super-wide angle, 2MP depth-assist
Triple Camera; 24MP Main with f/1.8 aperture
16MP Pop-Up Selfie Camera
32MP Beauty Selfie with AI Technology
Pro-grade video stabilization
480fps super slow-motion video
AIS Super Night Mode, 3D Portrait Lightning
Super Night Shoot, 1.8m, AI Backlighting Imaging Technology, AI Scene Camera
Xtraordinary Gaming Technology
Latest GPU Turbo 3.0 Technology
6GB + 128GB (up to 512GB expandable storage)
4GB + 128GB ROM
6.59” HONOR FullView display
91% screen-to-body ratio
2340 x 1080 pixel resolution
6.21” with dewdrop notch, HD borderless display
1080 x 2340 pixel resolution
4000 mAh with USB Type C fast-charging port
EMUI 9.0 (Android Pie), Kirin 710F Octa-core Processor, GPU Turbo 3.0
EMUI 9.0 (Android Pie), Kirin 710F Processor, GPU Turbo 2.0
Dynamic X Design, Blue Light Filter, AI Signal Enhancer
TÜV Rheinland Certified Eye-Care
Midnight Black & Sapphire Blue
Phantom Blue and Phantom Red
HONOR 9X PRE-ORDER
Starting on November 29 until December 6, HONOR 9X will be available for pre-order exclusively on Lazada. The first 50 to order online from Lazada retail store (http://bit.ly/9XLazadaOfficialStore) will receive JBL GO+ portable Bluetooth Speakers and HONOR gift kit. The same freebie is up for grabs for the first 300 buyers visiting the 15 HONOR key stores nationwide (http://bit.ly/HONOR9Xlistofstores):
1 SM CEBU LOUNGE
2 SM BACOLOD KIOSK
3 GMALL CONCEPT STORE
4 SM PAMPANGA LOUNGE
5 SM SJDM CONCEPT STORE
6 BAGUIO MOUNTAIN STUDIO KIOSK
7 MEGAMALL KIOSK
8 SM FAIRVIEW CONCEPT STORE
9 SM NORTH EDSA CONCEPT STORE
10 SM MANILA KIOSK
11 SM SANGANDAAN KIOSK
12 SM BACOOR KIOSK
13 Memo Express – MALL OF ASIA
14 Memo Express – SM VALENZUELA
15 Memo Express – CASH AND CARRY MAKATI
HONOR 9X will be available in HONOR concept stores and kiosks and multibrand stores nationwide (http://bit.ly/2Ol7JcA) come December 7, 2019.
HONOR 20 Lite Pre-Order
Following suit, HONOR 20 Lite will be exclusively available for pre-order at Shopee (http://bit.ly/30RogI0) from December 9 until December 13. The first 50 will likewise bring home JBL GO 2 portable Bluetooth Speaker. Availability nationwide will be on December 14 in HONOR concept stores and kiosks and Memo Express stores nationwide (http://bit.ly/2Ol7JcA).
End your year on a high note with these two new phone upgrades from HONOR Mobile. Don’t miss on any of the surprises still awaiting 2019, follow HONOR on its website (https://www.hihonor.com/ph/) and social media accounts on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (http://www.instagram/com/honorph) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/honorph).


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AGC Asahi Glass agreed to acquire CMC Biologics, a contract manufacturing and development organization (CDMO), in a deal that is expected to close next month. AGC manufactures glass, chemicals, and high-tech materials.
“I am thrilled that we now will be a central part of AGC's pharmaceutical services business, with biologic manufacturing operations in Europe, U.S.A., and Asia,” said David Kauffmann, chairman of CMC Biologics. “AGC's commitment to best technology solutions and longtime partnership with clients align so well with CMC Biologics' mission to be the preferred biologics CDMO service partner for the world's top pharmaceutical and biotech companies.”
CMC Biologics will retain its distinct brand and independence and continue to provide services to the biopharma marketplace, according to company officials.


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Updated: Jun 13
We are excited to announce that PeerGaming HQ has been featured in the latest edition of CIOReview Magazine. Our team has worked tirelessly to create a platform that offers operators cost-saving benefits for player acquisition and retention, and we are thrilled to see our efforts recognized.
CIOReview Magazine is a leading enterprise technology publication highlighting innovative companies' contributions to diverse industries. Being featured in their magazine is a great honor and confirms that we are on the right track to revolutionizing the gaming industry.
We extend our gratitude to CIOReview Magazine for featuring PeerGaming HQ. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for our SaaS platform and the gaming industry as a whole.


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Australian internet service providers that complain about the fee they have to pay per megabit for access to the national broadband network don’t care about consumers or quality of service, according to NBN Co non-executive director Michael Malone.
The founder of ISP iiNet, which was acquired by TPG in 2015, said in an exclusive interview with Fairfax Media that providers were not provisioning enough internet traffic for users to have an enjoyable internet experience, and were to blame for slow speeds across the nation.
“The reason they [telcos] are moaning is that they are price fighting,” Malone said of ISPs. “They don’t give a f— about the quality of service.”
Malone said that media needed to “be careful about who they speak to” in the industry when it came to the ISP sector complaining about effectively being taxed for internet traffic.


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Game meat, venison and duck are helping a Cornish restaurant fly high.
The magazine Condé Nast Traveller voted the Ugly Butterfly at Carbis Bay Hotel one of the top restaurants in the UK. Part of its success is sourcing game locally.
Head chef Connor Blades says they source their meat from West Country Premium Venison. He says: “It’s just an amazing product. It is really local and the meat they supply is brilliant. At the moment we’ve got duck on the menu which was shot locally. We just love using things that are close to the restaurant. That’s really close to our heart.”
You eat parts of deer and pheasant at the Ugly Butterfly restaurant that you may not have previously considered.
Connor says they use all of each duck. He says: “We use the breasts on the crown and finish on the barbecue. We confit the legs that roll into a sausage. We make the skin really crispy. That sits on top of it. And all the carcases we make into our sauce.
Reducing food waste at the Ugly Butterfly restaurant is central to its ethos. Its motto ‘why waste?’ inspires its menus.
Connor says the outlook of the Ugly Butterfly owner Adam Handling on food and his restaurants is ‘sustainability’ which, unlike many people in the world of hospitality, he defines. He says: “This means keeping everything as local as possible and minimising food waste. At the moment, with the cost of food going up, you can’t waste anything. Everything is so expensive. If you throw something in the bin it’s money down the drain, and it’s also just a waste of the product.”
The Ugly Butterfly restaurant is leading the way in making game meat delicious.
Connor grew up in the Yorkshire countryside. He says: “I think it’s an amazing opportunity for myself because of where I’ve come from. I was raised around shooting, fishing, and using game of all sorts. It’s great to come back around to it and be able to use it in my professional career. To be able to utilise the skills that I developed as a kid growing up, and now to use them in the restaurant.”
The pheasants, partridges and venison served at the Ugly Butterfly all lived and died in Cornwall.
In the same county, Ollie Williams runs the Cornish Sporting Agency. He is proud to produce game meat for local food businesses.
He says: “The shoots produce pheasant, partridges and a few duck, which we give and sell locally to restaurants and cafés.”
Outside the pheasant shooting, season he runs a deer management program which produces venison. He says: “It’s sustainably shot and managed for local restaurants and communities. For example, I gave a lot of venison away to people during lockdown with care packages in meat drops.”
Wild-sourced venison is more more free-range than farmed meats. It is healthy in comparison to other red meats as it contains less fat. It’s also a fantastic source of protein, containing more per gram or pound than beef, pork or chicken.
Annette Woolcock is head of sustainable food at BASC. She says game is an under-utilised meat that offers many benefits.
She says: “It’s what the consumer is looking for. They’re looking for something that has a benefit to the climate, that is wild, that has no additives and is good for their health.”
Ollie is a fan of the health benefits of game. He says: “When you compare venison, rabbits, grouse and pheasant to beef, the fat content is far lower. The iron content is far higher. And the lean protein content is also much better for your health.”
He says game has an unwarranted poor reputation, but people need to think again.
It’s not just restaurants that are selling game. A motorway service station outside Gloucester has a farm shop that offers commuters locally-sourced game.
BASC says that eating game meat is a great way of reducing food miles. Ollie says communities need to be more conscious of their carbon footprint and high food.
Annette says with game meat the key consideration is ‘net gain’. She says: “A net gain is the positive effects game meat has on the climate and biodiversity. So, for instance, in game birds, it’s all about the enhancements that goes along to the woodlands and the cover crops, which will attract wild birds and insects. And then with the stalking, it’s about protecting the woodland and crops while we’re culling the deer.”
Connor says game meat causes less harm to the land and doesn’t damage the environment as much as farmed meat.
He says: If the animals are traveling from overseas they have more miles and a bigger carbon footprint. He says: “We have so much good local produce that we can utilize. We don’t need to get it from abroad. And yes, that is cheaper, but I think if you’re buying meat, you shouldn’t look for the cheapest thing. It’s not a cheap product. It’s a higher price for a reason because there’s so many steps and people involved. The need to manage the system to be able to put it on our plates.” He says it’s amazing that such tasty meat like game is available from nearby countryside.
World class chefs such as Connor hope their dishes will help show people that sustainable game meat isn’t just healthy and good for the environment. It’s also delicious.
He says: “The animals are there regardless, and you have to manage them at some point. If the animals are managed, then they need to be used as well. We take them in the restaurants, we eat them, serve them to guests, and the guests love it. So it’s a full circle.”
With the Eat Game Awards in London just around the corner, wild-sourced food is making a comeback as a delicacy. Now we should work on making it a staple.


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The Weinig SERVOLock is a smart compact tool that improves the process of tightening and loosening the spindle nut while clamping moulder cutterheads into position on Weinig...
Weinig Holz-Her USA announces spring Technology Expo April 19 & 20, 2018
On August 25th, our sales and service office in Mooresville had a prestigious visit.
EnVision It, the theme for this year’s AWFS Fair, offers our customers a true definition of what Industry 4.0 is all about.


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Eagle River Interactive, a tiny Avon, Colo., agency similar to CKS, filed a registration statement with the Securities & Exchange Commission Jan. 29.
Cupertino, Calif.-based CKS, with $200 million in billings, raised $40 million in a December IPO; its stock has since gone from $20 a share to $34, making the company worth more than $400 million on paper. Chicago-based True North Communications, with more than 10 times CKS' revenue, is worth about the same.
Formed two years ago, Eagle River had revenue of $5.3 million in 1995, about a sixth of CKS' revenue. It has yet to post a profit, but is seeking to raise almost as much as CKS-about $36.6 million.
Both companies derive some 30% of their revenue from interactive work and expect that number to grow to 50% this year. Most of Eagle River's revenue comes from its outdoor media operation. CKS also works on package design, corporate identity and advertising, mostly on a project basis.
Eagle River's prospectus says it "seeks to become the leading worldwide developer of interactive marketing solutions for Fortune 1,000 companies," working on Web sites, kiosks, CD-ROMs and proprietary online offerings.
Eagle River clients include American Express Co., Sun Microsystems and Sprint.
Terence Graunke, chairman, president and CEO, joined Eagle River in 1994. By going public, he hopes to tap into the excitement generated on Wall Street by high-tech companies like Netscape Communications and CKS. The latter's stock is trading at a 510-to-1 price-earnings ratio.
CKS plans to use some of its IPO winnings to grow through acquisitions. Carlton Baab, chief operating and financial officer, said CKS is interested in traditional marketing-communications agencies and high-tech companies that could help on the back end of interactive-marketing programs.
Alice Z. Cuneo contributed to this story.


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“Vegan choices should be so delicious that everyone should want to include them in their lives, whether a strict vegan or someone who has never thought of themselves as a vegan before.”
Peterborough-based restaurant chain, Wagamama is moving ahead with a new vegan-themed menu for Veganuary amid its pledge to make 50% of its menu meat-free by the end of 2021.
According to the pan Asian restaurant, the move is in line with its campaign ‘Small Choices, Big Change’ – launched in response to growing climate concerns.
The new menu launching on 5th January will offer plant-based versions of cult favourite dishes; Chilli Squid, sticky ribs, Firecracker Curry and Grilled Duck Donburi, which the company hopes will entice even their ‘most set-in-their-ways meat-eating fans’.
‘Championing a plant-based diet’
Acknowledging the bizarre decision of launching a new menu, in the middle of a second wave of the pandemic, Wagamama chief executive Emma Woods said the group wanted to ensure 2021 is a “year of change”.
She told the PA news agency: “2021 feels like a year that we should be trying to make a positive impact.
“For us, that’s about championing a plant-based diet. That’s one of the promises we’re making as a business.”
Wagamama’s new vegan menu
The four new vegan dishes on the menu include Wagamama’s iconic king oyster mushroom-based Chilli ‘Squid’, which will be served with a tantalising dipping sauce of chilli and coriander.
The Vegan Sticky Ribs are made combining mushroom and soya protein and the No-Duck Donburi is made with shredded seitan and shiitake mushrooms coated in a cherry hoisin sauce.
Wagamama has also veganised Firecracker – one of its popular curries and crowd favourite.
According to Woods, “Vegan choices should be so delicious that everyone should want to include them in their lives, whether a strict vegan or someone who has never thought of themselves as a vegan before.
“As Covid causes us all to press pause on so many things, let’s make sure we fast forward the small decisions which can better our planet”.
‘Can’t wait to try it’
“Thrilled” at Wagamama’s commitment to half meat offerings on menus by 2021, Toni Vernelli, International Head of Communications at Veganuary said: “It’s a big step as a high street restaurant shows their dedication to making vegan eating as accessible as possible to the masses.”
He added: “Every year Wagamama has consistently made it easier to persuade people to try vegan food by introducing great-tasting, high-quality vegan dishes to their menu.
“This year is no different, as their Small Choices, Big Change campaign continues to champion the vegan movement by empowering their teams and guests to make sustainable choices.
“This new menu clearly embraces the opportunity to create vegan versions of fan This new menu clearly embraces the opportunity to create vegan versions of fan favourites, while also introducing guests to new innovative plant-based options. It will appeal to non-vegans and vegans alike, and we can’t wait to try it.”
While all Wagamama sites have closed for dine-in options, 118 of its 148 sites will remain operational for takeaway and click and collect services.
Share this story to let others know about Wagamama’s new vegan-themed menu for Veganuary.
Vegan culture, food, beauty & more
8 practical ways you get your loved ones to quit eating meat
- Mohsina Dodhiya
- 31st March 2023
Eating meat has long been a contentious issue, with people often having strong opinions on both sides of the discussion. For those who are committed to a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, it can be difficult to watch their loved ones continue to consume meat. However, there are ways to have a constructive and persuasive conversation …
Continue reading “8 practical ways you get your loved ones to quit eating meat”
The Lord of the Rings franchise under fire after horse dies on set for the second time
- Mohsina Dodhiya
- 27th March 2023
PETA renews calls for Hollywood to replace animals with CGI Amazon’s television series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power has come under fire after a horse died during rehearsals for a season 2 scene in the UK. The horse was one of about 30 on set that day and died of cardiac …
Continue reading “The Lord of the Rings franchise under fire after horse dies on set for the second time”
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All the quizzes you love to binge!
QUIZ: If you score 11/12 on this quiz, you’re a verified vegan food expert
- Marlon Farrugia
- 10th January 2020
How much vegan knowledge do you have stored away? Do you have to Google your way through a shopping trip, or do you have all the bad E-numbers memorised? Find out now with this quiz. Marlon Farrugia Marlon Farrugia is a freelance writer from Brighton. He has been a dedicated vegan for many years, and …
Continue reading “QUIZ: If you score 11/12 on this quiz, you’re a verified vegan food expert”
QUIZ: What is your perfect Vegan Halloween Costume?
- Marlon Farrugia
- 13th October 2019
Spook Season approaches. There will be ghosts, goblins, ghouls, and glucose. You need a costume, and you want to it to show off your personality, which means VEGAN. But what to choose? Take our quiz to find out your perfect outfit. Marlon Farrugia Marlon Farrugia is a freelance writer from Brighton. He has been a …
Continue reading “QUIZ: What is your perfect Vegan Halloween Costume?”
QUIZ: What kind of vegetable are you?
- Marlon Farrugia
- 26th September 2019
“If you were a vegetable, what kind would you be?” A question that has tormented humanity throughout the ages – until now. Read: QUIZ: If you score 19/20 on THIS quiz, you’re a Vegan God Marlon Farrugia Marlon Farrugia is a freelance writer from Brighton. He has been a dedicated vegan for many years, and …


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7-Eleven worker paid as little as 47 cents an hour, lawyers say
A Pakistani student was paid as little as 47 cents an hour to work at a 7-Eleven store in Sydney, lawyers representing employees of the convenience store chain have said.
ABC's Four Corners program and Fairfax last year revealed workers at the convenience stores were systematically paid about half the minimum wage,with many of those affected being foreign workers.
The convenience store chain set up an independent panel to assess the claims of about 20,000 past and present workers from 7-Eleven franchises.
Maurice Blackburn Lawyers is representing 60 workers who are claiming back pay from 7-Eleven.
They said one Pakistani student, named Sohail, was paid one lump sum of $325 for about 685 hours of work at a Sydney store
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Finland’s state-run gaming operator saw profit fall to €680.2m for full-year 2020.
Finland.- The state-run gaming monopoly Veikkaus has reported a 32.6 per cent drop in profits for 2020 due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Publishing its results for the financial year, the operator reported profit of €680.2m. Gross gaming revenue (GGR) fell 25.5 per cent to €1.26bn.
More than half of GGR (56.6 per cent) was generated through Veikkaus’s retail network. The share taken by its digital channel increased by 11 per cent.
Veikkaus put the drop in profits down to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, noting that its slot machines had been out of action for five months.
The operator has also been reducing the number of slot machines it operates as part of its safer gambling initiatives.
The operator highlighted its commitment to its responsible gaming initiatives in 2020 despite the impact of the pandemic.
Hanna Kyrki, senior vice president for legal affairs and corporate social responsibility, said: “Despite the challenges and insecurity caused by the epidemic, we made major decisions to work on the building of a more responsible gaming environment in 2020.”
Veikkaus reported that 58.1 per cent of gaming in the period was authenticated through ID checks. Within that, 11.5 per cent of slot gaming was authenticated, with the operator beginning to pilot authentication requirements for slots in October before making it obligatory in January.
GGR for the entire Finnish gambling market in 2020 is estimated at €1.59bn, a drop of 21 per cent year-on-year. That would mean that Veikkaus serves 80 per cent of the market. However, its share of the online market is estimated at 63 per cent.
Regina Sippel, Veikkaus’s chief financial officer, said: “We had to take major, difficult decisions, on a tight schedule at Veikkaus due to the coronavirus epidemic in 2020, in order to protect the health of our staff, customers, and retailers.
“For Veikkaus, just as for many other companies, the year of the coronavirus was challenging; however, it was also a year of positive, remarkable solutions that have enabled the building of a more responsible gaming environment.”


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Customers enjoyed a spec-tacular event at Fort Kinnaird, as Specsavers launched its brand new store.
The launch party, held on Saturday, 18 April, included a fashion show in conjunction with New Look, with staff modelling the season’s sunglasses range along with the latest fashions.
Oompa-loompas were also present, handing out golden tickets to lucky customers offering money off designer frames.
Staff and customers also enjoyed a photo-booth, DJ, face-painting, a balloon modeller and piper and drummer welcoming customers to the new store.
And the celebrations didn't stop there.
To mark the opening, staff hosted an in-store raffle in aid of the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS), offering the chance to win a signed top from Andy Murray.
Tracy Galloway, retail director at Specsavers Edinburgh, says: ‘We are thrilled that our launch event attracted so many of our loyal customers from our previous base in ASDA, The Jewel, while encouraging new customers to come in and see our new store.
‘I hope our customers enjoyed the event as much as we did, and look forward to seeing more new faces pop into the store and experience our state of the art optical and hearing facilities.’


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Sedano’s highlights expanded fresh offerings in new store
The new store will feature an array of hot foods.
Sedano’s Supermarkets is highlighting an expansive store-branded hot food station and sandwich bar in its newest location in Hialeah, Fla., where the independent Hispanic grocer was founded in 1962. The 35,000-square-foot store, Sedano’s 35th overall, is also its 10th location in Hialeah. The store, which opens Wednesday, also includes Sedano’s new look and décor.
The first 200 customers during the store’s grand reopening will receive a complimentary reusable branded grocery bag with a Sedano’s gift card ranging between $5 and $200. Other festivities during the week-long opening celebration will also be held, including live cooking demonstrations.
Founded by the Herrán and Guerra families, Sedano’s serves Florida’s booming multicultural communities, with more than 3,000 employees and stores in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Orange and Osceola counties. Sedano’s is recognized for its ethnic product offerings, among other things.
The number of Hispanics in the U.S. is expected to grow from 49 million in 2010 to 62.3 million in 2020, with two-thirds of them having been born in the U.S.


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Apple has only just begun to address the consumer electronics market in China, but it is seen by many industry watchers as being integral to Apple’s continued growth. On Tuesday, Apple announced that it will finally launch its current-generation iPad tablet in China on July 20th, and pricing will align with U.S. pricing. Apple’s iPad 2 will also be available starting at $399. Apple’s third-generation iPad first launched in the United States and other key markets on March 16th, and it quickly became Apple’s fastest-selling tablet ever. Apples press release follows below.
New iPad Arrives in China on Friday, July 20
CUPERTINO, Californiaâ€•July 10, 2012â€•Apple ® today announced the new iPad ®, the third generation of its category defining mobile device, will arrive in China on Friday, July 20. The new iPad features a stunning new Retinaâ„¢ display, Apple’s new A5X chip with quad-core graphics and a 5 megapixel iSight ® camera with advanced optics for capturing amazing photos and 1080p HD video. The new iPad still delivers the same all-day 10 hour battery life* while remaining amazingly thin and light.
The new iPad Wi-Fi models will be available in black or white for a suggested retail price of $499 (US) for the 16GB model, $599 (US) for the 32GB model and $699 (US) for the 64GB model. The iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular models will be available for a suggested retail price of $629 (US) for the 16GB model, $729 (US) for the 32GB model and $829 (US) for the 64GB model. In China the new iPad will be available through the Apple Online Store (www.apple.com), select Apple Authorized Resellers and by reservation from Apple retail stores. Reservation requests will be accepted daily from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. beginning Thursday, July 19 for pick up the following day. Additionally, iPad 2 is available at a more affordable price starting at just $399 (US).
*Battery life depends on device settings, usage and other factors. Actual results vary.


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US dairy cooperative Land O’Lakes has acquired local peer Vermont Creamery for an undisclosed sum.
Vermont Creamery will become an independently operated subsidiary of Land O’Lakes and continue to produce fresh and aged goat cheeses, cultured butter and fresh dairy at its creamery in Websterville.
Bob Reese and Allison Hooper, Vermont Creamery’s co-founders, will work as advisors and brand ambassadors for the business, Land O’Lakes said. “President Adeline Druart and the leadership team will remain in place as will all employees of the business.”
Druart said the deal would bring “additional resources and dairy expertise” for Vermont Creamrey’s continued growth.
Vermont Creamery’s Ayers Brook Goat Dairy, which is not included in the acquisition, will continue to be owned by the Hooper family, become “a key supplier” to the business and be a “catalyst for the growth of the goat dairy industry in Vermont”, Land O’Lakes said.
Land O’Lakes president and CEO Chris Policinski said: “We purchased Vermont Creamery and welcome them to the Land O’Lakes family because we love their brand… We share a value-added, branded approach to marketing our products, a meaningful respect for our customers and deeply rooted rural values.”
Land O’Lakes reported a “record year” for earnings earlier this month, which it attributed to its “marketplace back” approach.


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December 26, 2011
US November beef output slides 4% on-year
US beef production this November totalled 2.15 billion pounds, down 4% on-year, according to the November Livestock Slaughter report.
Total US commercial red meat production decreased by 2% from last November's totals, moving from 4.33 billion pounds last year to 4.26 billion pounds.
Veal production totalled 10.8 million pounds, 5% below November a year ago. Calf slaughter totalled 73,000 head, up slightly from November 2010. The average live weight was down 14 pounds from last year, at 255 pounds.
January to November 2011 commercial red meat production was 45.0 billion pounds, up 1% from 2010. Accumulated beef production was up slightly from last year, veal was down 3%, pork was up 2% from last year, and lamb and mutton production was down 9%.
Pork production totalled 2.09 billion pounds, up 1% from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.04 million head, up 1% from November 2010. The average live weight was unchanged from the previous year, at 278 pounds.


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Price rises have not disappeared completely
The Kuwait Central Bank governor Sheikh Salem Abdul Aziz al-Sabah has said that inflationary pressures in GCC countries have been “contained” though they haven’t disappeared completely, Bloomberg has reported. “The global increase in food prices needs attention,” Sheikh Salem said in a speech delivered at a meeting of central bankers from the GCC countries. “Inflation in the GCC has been noticeably contained, but that does not mean that these pressures have disappeared completely.”
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