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Vibescout, an innovative start-up that provides event listings and city guides, is now listing movies showing on 690 screens in 94 cinemas across South Africa. Vibescout is now officially the largest movie aggregator in South Africa and continues to take the country’s entertainment scene to new heights. Cape Town, South Africa, July 5, 2017 – Co-founded in 2015 by brothers’ Paul and Jonathan Myburgh, Vibescout’s vision is to provide an easy-to-use platform used to smartly curate the best things to do near you. This is done through event listings, comprehensive go-to guides and now, movie listings. The idea behind Vibescout was first born when Paul was travelling in Saigon, Vietnam in January 2014. After visiting all the regular tourist destinations, he scoured the hostel notice boards for more unique things to do and began to wonder how he could get better insight into truly local events and activities. After realizing there was definitely a void that needed to be filled in this space, Paul brought the idea back home to South Africa later that year and soon began work on Vibescout’s first version. Vibescout officially launched out of beta and started providing event listing in October 2016; by April 2017 they reached over 100 000 users for the month! As of 27 June 2017, Vibescout became the largest movie aggregator in South Africa, listing movies showing on 688 screens in 94 cinemas throughout the country. “It took roughly 6 weeks to get a MVP release and from it we have had amazing user feedback. We are currently getting nearly 10 000 users weekly using our movie section to find the latest movies and locate cinemas around them. We didn't realize it at the time and such a goal wasn't even on our radar, but we are now officially the largest movie aggregator in South Africa.” JONATHAN MYBURGH, CO-FOUNDER OF VIBESCOUT Connect with or contact with us: Jonathan Myburgh - . . .
Surfing: BOS Cape Crown presented by Billabong - Elkington and Nogueira Head Rankings Kommetjie the Venue for Fourth Stop in 2017 WSL Africa Junior Series Kommetjie local Jake Elkington and Kayla Nogueira of uMhlanga head the rankings for the second annual BOS Cape Crown pres. by Billabong that will be run at Long Beach in Kommetjie this weekend (20 & 21 May). The fourth World Surf League (WLS) Junior Qualifying Series (JQS) event of 2017, the BOS Cape Crown comprises JQS1,000 rated events for Men and Women and has attracted the cream of the country’s 18-and-under competitors who will competing for the prestigious titles and a total of R30,000 in prize money. The rankings points earned at the event will count towards the crowning of the 2017 WSL Africa Junior champions and also the selection of the top four men and top two women to represent the region at the WSL World Junior Championships in Australia in January 2018. Elkington, who has reached the final of all three junior men’s events this year (winning in Port Elizabeth and finishing third in East London and Durban), holds a slender 70 point rankings lead over reigning WSL Africa junior men’s champion Adin Masencamp of the Stand, who clinched the event title in Durban last month. They will be hard pressed to maintain their current standings on the leaderboard by East London event champ, Koby Oberholzer of Warner Beach and Elkington’s younger brother Max, who has contested two finals this year. Joshe Faulkner (Jeffreys Bay), Luke Slijpen (Hout Bay), Calvin Goor (Salt Rock) and Luke Malherbe (East London) fill the balance of the spots in the top eight and will be going all-out to move up the rankings with a good result on the weekend. Nogueira has been the form surfer in this year’s junior women’s events, clinching two event victories and building up a solid rankings lead over Sophie Bell (Salt Rock), Kirsty McGillivray (Jeffreys Bay) and Tayla de Coning (East London). But Bell . . .
Cape Town, May 20 and 21, 2017 BOS Cape Crown presented by Billabong - Venue and Swell Forecast. Cape Town – this year the BOS Cape Crown will once again return to Long Beach in Kommetjie, one of the most consistent surf spots in the deep south and a popular venue for the local contest organisers. Local surfers will get a big head-start on their peers from up country, with the Durban-based crew at a disadvantage due to the extreme cold water that is prevalent around Kommetjie. To be surfing in boardshorts or bikinis all year and to then climb into a 4’3 rubber wetsuit is obviously going to be restrictive, and this will most definitely play a part in the visitors performances. On top of this, a wetsuit that is holding water will weigh in at about 4 kg, also making a noticeable difference to surfboard performances. Slight adaptations to surfers’ craft might have to be made in order for the upcountry surfers to be able to adapt easily. Local surfers will already have all of this covered. The Elkington brothers have been on form of late, and will no doubt be ready for a big result at this venue. They will be joined by Eli Beukes, a Long Beach local who can kill it out there on any given day. Luke Slijpen from Llandudno is another surfer who will have no trouble if the water gets cold and the wind gets strong. Similarly Summer Sutton will undoubtedly put on a strong performance at this event as she is attuned to the conditions already. According to the noted surf forecaster Spike from www.wavescape.co.za there will be great waves on tap for the weekend. “There is some swell in the area, mainly from the west,’ said Spike. “This will be combined with southerly breezes, so the competitors are going to get good waves all weekend.” The 2017 Cape Crown presented by Billabong is already a step up from last year’s event with the addition of QS1000 Pro Junior Divisions for Girls and Boys and forms part of the Billabong Junior Series that along with other . . .
Nelson Mandela Bay Surf Pro presented by Billabong Day One – Pollock Beach Small, light onshore but highly contestable conditions met the competitors in the inaugural World Surf League (WSL) World Qualifying Series (WSL) event this morning. After a slight delay, while waiting for the conditions to settle, it was straight into the QS event. Comprising World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) rated events for men and women, plus Junior Qualifying Series (JQS) events for men and women aged 18-and-under, the Nelson Mandela Bay Surf Pro offers a total prize-pool of R80,000 plus points counting towards international and regional rankings lists. Billabong South Africa is the presenting sponsor, and they were in attendance as the best surfers in the country, as well as a contingent of international surfers, gathered for the start. "Billabong is really proud to be kicking off the inaugural Surf City Series in our backyard of Port Elizabeth. It is a fantastic initiative and an awesome opportunity for our local surfers to finally have their own domestic tour. Well done to everyone who made it possible and the best of luck to all the surfers competing," said Chad D'Arcy, Billabong South Africa's Marketing Manager. The QS1,000 rated men’s event features a 64 man field including the cream of South Africa’s surfers. The top seed is Michael February (Kommetjie), currently the country’s highest QS ranked surfer at No. 65, followed by 2016 WSL Africa champion Beyrick de Vries (uMhlanga), Dylan Lightfoot (Jeffreys Bay) and Braden Jones (USA). The QS1,000 women’s seeding is headed by Nicole Pallet (La Lucia), Emma Smith (Jeffreys Bay), Teal Hogg (uMhlanga) and Fay Zoetmulder (Cape St Francis) with Tayla Hanak (AUS) the only international among the 24 competitors. Reigning WSL Africa Junior champion Adin Masencamp (Strand), Sebastian Williams (Durban) and Kommetjie residents Jake Elkington and Ford van Jaarsveldt are the top four in the JQS1,000 junior . . .
If you think that dagga is a dangerous narcotic, then you have been duped through propaganda. Dagga is as traditional to SA as biltong, boerebeskuit and witblits. It fascinated JV Riebeeck and missionaries extolled its virtues. It grows like a weed, is medicinal in its natural form with a lower potential for harm to self and society than sugar. Supported by science (endocannabinoid system), legal in 24 USA states with 200 million US citizens having access to it as medicine (endocannabinoid system) + populations of 11 other countries. Deaths from opioid overdoses has also dropped by up to 25% in states with legal dagga. The current 'war on drugs' is a broken system. It's a war on people and does little to protect anyone from substance abuse. It's the same mentality that was used to justify enforcing the mixed marriages act, where the offender is also the victim. A perverse incentive to put people into prison. From physical prison to social prison with a subsequent criminal record. You will find plenty of peer reviewed studies, medical professionals (Joycelyn Elders, Andrew Weil, Lester Grinspoon, Deborah Malka, Sanjay Gupta, Abrams, Suzanne Sisley, Denis Petro, Ethan Russo, Uma Dhanabalan, Jeffrey Block, Bonni Goldstein, Juan Sanchez-Ramos..) who support dagga as a therapeutic plant. In SA, the Bobby Greenhash foundation PTY is supplying dagga oil to people suffering with terminal diseases. Their testimonials to the healing power of dagga is worth a read. The SA central drug authority (CDA) has also called for the decriminalization of dagga and a recent study they commissioned, concluded that dagga kills cervical cancer. Vilifying dagga and then using that stance to 'protect our children' is pointless. Rather fact based solutions (science) focusing on harm reduction through healthcare and education, as recommended by the SA substance abuse experts, S Kelley and Quintin Van Kerken. Better that control of dagga is removed from the streets and regulated . . .
Kenya’s economy has been growing consistently at the rate of 5.1% over the past 10 years. Inspite of this fact, power sector of the country is facing several hindrances in fulfilling the power generation needs which in turn is impacting the country’s economy and investing opportunities for other countries. To understand the challenges and prospects in power sector of Kenya, Bricsa Consulting in association with Kenya Renewable Energy Association, Alliance for Rural Electrification, East Africa Venture Capital Association and Green Africa Foundation are hosting: Power Tech Africa 2017 Conference, at Villa Rosa Kempinski in Nairobi, Kenya on 30th-31st January 2017. Julius Korir, Principal Secretary of State Department of Industry and Enterprise Development at the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Co-operatives will join the prestigious speaker panel at the conference. Robert Pavel Oimeke, Director of Renewable Energy representing the Energy Regulatory Commission, Zulandi Van Der Westhuizen, Deputy Director Scenarios and Resources from World Energy Council and Jonathan Lodompui, Director of Enablers and Macro Directorate at Kenya Vision 2030 will update the attendees on the latest development on power technologies in Africa . Identifying the effects on African economies due to the current scenario and an insight of the Institutional framework of the power sector will be some of the key topics open to discussion. In addition, the role of FDI policies in operating the power system in eastern African region, along with Solar Energy v/s Wind Energy as renewable source of energy will be explored. Discussion on the above topic will not only help in better understanding of the power sector in the sub-Saharan region, it will also provide the best platform to the solution providers who can showcase their products and services at the conference. It will also interest all the stake holders who are willing to invest in the power sector of Africa as the market industry is . . .
On-The-Ground Activations in Rio Highlight Meaningful Innovation and Accessibility for Everyone JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – 7 September, 2016 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Worldwide Partner of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) in the Wireless Communications Equipment category, announced its global Rio 2016 Paralympic Games campaign. This is a continuation of the brand’s Rio 2016 Olympic Games programme, which celebrates how meaningful progress comes from daring to defy barriers. The campaign kicks off with the announcement of several on-the-ground activations, including the transformation of Samsung Galaxy Studios in Rio, the Samsung Paralympic Blogger programme, official application and the Whang Youn Dai Award. “The Paralympic Games is a global movement that inspires and celebrates the spirit of perseverance and the human challenge,” says Michelle Potgieter, Director: Brand & Communications at Samsung South Africa. “Samsung strives to create breakthrough mobile technologies that help make the digital world more accessible for those with disabilities. We hope our Rio 2016 Paralympic Games campaign will help spark a global conversation around seeing ability over disability and enable everyone to participate in the Paralympic movement.” Accessible Experiences at Samsung Galaxy Studios In the lead-up to the Paralympic Games, Samsung has revamped its Galaxy Studios in Rio, including its flagship studio in Olympic Park. The revamp includes several accessibility features, ensuring all consumers, athletes and fans are able to take part in a variety of interactive experiences. Wheelchair accessible ramps and lifts enable visitors to reach the Gear VR 4D Experience Zone, where they will experience exhilarating Olympic Sports, roller coaster rides and kayaking through water rapids via Samsung Gear VR, paired with Galaxy mobile devices. Samsung also offers unique, hands-on opportunities for visitors to experience how Samsung . . .
Samsung underlines its commitment to Europe and unveils new products and partnerships for the European home appliance, visual display and home entertainment markets JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – 1 September, 2016 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. used its IFA 2016 press conference today in Berlin to demonstrate how it is redefining the consumer experience, showcasing a range of new products and partnerships for the home appliance, visual display and home entertainment markets. “At IFA 2016, we want to show delegates how we are continually striving to revolutionise the Samsung experience for all our customers and partners - and across all our product lines, from television and home audio to home appliances. Everything Samsung creates is borne out of our determination to enrich peoples’ daily lives with innovative technology, based on a deep understanding of what consumers really want and need,” said Matthew Thackrah, Deputy Managing Director Samsung South Africa. Committed to Europe’s Potential During the press conference, held in the CityCube at Messe Berlin, Samsung reiterated its commitment to Europe, employing 14 000 people in 34 countries. Samsung’s products are infused with European flair, fashion, design and the finest traditions of manufacturing excellence. With Q2 revenue up five percent year on year, seven out of 10 European households owning a Samsung mobile phone, as well as one in three families watching their favorite shows and films on Samsung TVs, the company believes now is the right time to invest even further in Europe’s potential. In keeping with this commitment, Samsung announced a new partnership with MakerBot, the global leader in 3D printing, which will equip schools, colleges and museums in five European markets with 3D printers, as well as train teachers and students alike in the use of the technology. With more than 100 000 MakerBot printers around the world, it represents the world’s largest 3D printing community and an . . .
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – 31 August, 2016 – Samsung Electronics Co. recently announced that all of its 2016 UHD TV models have attained the Ultra High Definition (UHD) TV certification from Digital Europe (DE), a collaborative body of European IT and consumer electronics businesses. Comprised of 62 corporate members and 37 National Trade Associations, DE is one of the most influential organisations representing the digital technology industry in Europe. According to Matthew Thackrah, Deputy Managing Director and Head of Consumer Electronics at Samsung Electronics South Africa, Samsung TVs, ranging from the 2016 SUHD TV lineup to the Series 6 UHD TVs, have all met the strict standards set for UHD TV certification as specified by DE. “These products will now carry the European UHD TV certification logo, as well as the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) label. Both certification labels will be on display on Samsung UHD TVs at this year’s IFA exhibition,” he explains. For certification purposes, DE has specifically defined a ‘pixel’ as the minimum picture resolution element capable of rendering the same luminance scale as the entire display. The horizontal and vertical pixel count must be of the complete red, green and blue triple sub-pixel block, while not counting additional non-RGB sub-pixels. Additional criteria listed to earn the DE certification include: Minimum native resolution of the display (e.g. LCD, PDP, OLED) or display engine (e.g. DLP) is 3840 x 2160 in 16:9 aspect ratio. Minimum supported colorimetric is at BT.709 or above. The display-device has at least one end-to-end signal path available to the user that does not render a UHD input at a frame rate or resolution lower than that received over the UHD interface from the source. The display-device has at least one end-to-end signal path available to the user that does not reduce the resolution, nor reduce the frame rate of a UHD input during processing prior to . . .
Promotion offers Samsung consumers the chance to win a trip to the Maldives JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – 31 August, 2016 – The majority of South Africans are thankful to note that winter is finally coming to an end and that they can once again get ready to unpack their shorts and sandals. Samsung Electronics South Africa shares this sentiment and has therefore decided to offer consumers a chance to get into the spirit of summer. The company is launching its ‘Kick Start Your Summer’ competition on the 1st of September 2016. Scheduled to run until 30th September 2016; the initiative will see 15 lucky winners win the trip of a lifetime to the beautiful islands of the Maldives. “Entering the competition is quite easy”, says Michael McKechnie, Director of Digital Appliances Group at Samsung Electronics SA. “Consumers simply need to purchase any qualifying Samsung air conditioning product through a recognised retailer, send the unique product serial number to the competition hotline via SMS and wait to see if they are one of the lucky names drawn at the end of the competition. Winners will be drawn on 14 October 2016 and proof of purchase, as well as the serial number will be required to validate wins” he explains. Once validated, the customer will receive an SMS with a winning pin code and the concierge service number to call to book their trips to the island. “The good news for customers is that this is just the first of a number of exciting promotions planned by Samsung over the course of the coming months,” McKechnie adds. “While a number of Samsung products qualify as entry to the competition, the start of the summer season is an ideal time to consider buying an air-conditioner. What better way to kick start your summer than by purchasing a product that could set you up with a dream ticket to the Indian Ocean paradise of the Maldives? So, if you are in the market for an air-conditioner this summer, then look no further than Samsung’s beautifully . . .


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For those who are looking for that secret pill that will help them lose weight will have not one but two new drugs to choose from in the near future.
The US Food & Drug Administration has given the two pharmaceutical preparations the go-ahead. They are aimed at helping to reduce the obesity epidemic which is sweeping across the USA and the West.
The two medications are Belviq and Qsymia. The first of the two apparently acts as an appetite suppressor, and is considered to be similar to another product that was withdrawn in 1997 after worries over a potential link with heart failure. Belviq however is considered to be safer as the dosage is low.
Qsymia on the other hand is a combination of two other and older medications – topiramate, which is an anti-seizure drung and phentermine, a well-known stimulant. The product is thought to work in a similar fashion to Beliviq, but is also believed to be more powerful in its effects.
Speaking with reporters, Dr. Donna Ryan who is a lead researcher at the Pennington Biomedical Research Centre where trials took place said of Belviq: “Belviq was developed specifically to avoid the receptor on the heart valve which had been associated with heart damage, and there’s no evidence in our research that heart valve problems will develop.”
One of the problems in trying to lose weight which most, if not all obesity patients will be well aware of is that hormones are released that stimulate appetite. The aim of these particular drugs is to try and control this by suppressing the release of hormones.
However Dr. Ryan told reporters that the drugs are not magic bullet. Rather they just help patients eat less. She said: “Patients must intentionally go on a diet, try to reduce food intake and increase physical activity.”

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This week, Google announced two new projects. Both projects are mainly based on Blockchain technology. One is a cloud platform and the other is an audit system.
As regards the audit system, the company initially filed a patent application in September 2017. According to the filing published by the US Patent and Trademark Office, Google plans to create a so-called “tamper-proof” repository based on Blockchain technology that will store signatures and verify whether the stored information has not been altered. This system will detect any unusual behavior, from where, it will be able to detect the nature of the change and when it occurred.
Technically, Google has proposed a system that will use 2 independent Blockchains. The first is called the Target Blockchain, it will be used to store the first signatures. The second Blockchain will be used to store data that has been verified by the first target Blockchain. It is also mentioned that these Blockchains can be stored in a single device or on several storage spaces.
After banning ads related to crypto-currencies and ICOs, Google is now preparing two projects based on Blockchain technology. In this context, Ramaswamy the vice president responsible for advertising, spoke at a press conference in London, that this is only a research topic, and that they do not have much information to say on how Blockchain technology will fit into their current operational framework
According to Google announcements, both projects are underway, but, there are no precise dates for the release of both platforms.


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Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) is considering an investment in mobile startup Cyanogen, according to multiple reports. Cyanogen is seeking to chip away at Google's (NASDAQ: GOOG) control over the Android mobile platform by offering a modified version of the software.
According to reports from the Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg, which each cited unnamed sources, Microsoft is in talks to become either a backer or partner of Cynaogen. The reports differ on the details of how Microsoft and Cyanogen might work together though. Microsoft and Cyanogen declined to comment, according to the reports.
The WSJ reported that Microsoft would be a minority investor in a roughly $70 million round of equity financing that values Cyanogen in the high hundreds of millions of dollars. The report said the financing round could grow with other strategic investors that have expressed interest in Cyanogen because they also want to weaken Google's control over Android. Prior investors in Cyanogen include Benchmark Capital, Redpoint Ventures, Andreessen Horowitz and Chinese social networking company Tencent.
Meanwhile, Bloomberg reported that Microsoft wants to work with Cyanogen to create a version of Android that's friendlier to Microsoft services. Before Microsoft purchased Nokia's (NYSE:NOK) devices business, Nokia had created a series of phones based on a modified version of Android that featured Microsoft services including Skype and One Drive, but Microsoft scrapped those phones in 2014 after its purchase of Nokia's phone business closed.
Bloomberg said Microsoft may invest in Cyanogen and strike a commercial partnership, and that the companies are discussing deal terms but Microsoft hasn't committed to an investment. Cyanogen is raising a round of financing that could value it at around $500 million, Bloomberg reported.
Microsoft supports its own Windows Phone platform for phones, but only has around 3 percent market share globally.
Cyanogen offers features and options not found in the official firmware distributed by Android device vendors. Cyanogen takes the Android source code and modifies it to let users customize the user interface. In the same way that Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) has modified the Android Open Source Project for its Kindle Fire tablets and Fire phone, and created its own application ecosystem, Cyanogen wants to create an alternative to Google's version of Android and the Google Play store. Such forked or modified versions of Android are also popular in China. Google is trying to counter that trend with its Android One program, which seeks to bring low-cost Android phones with up-to-date software and Google services to consumers in emerging markets.
Although Google distributes Android for free as part of an open-source project, it exerts control over the look and feel of Android phones that run Google services like Search and Maps. Part of that effort can be glimpsed in the "Mobile Application Distribution Agreements" OEMs have signed with Google, which require manufacturers to make Google Search the device's default search engine. The agreements even require placement of Google apps in certain locations on the device, such as having its Play Store icon "immediately adjacent" to the home screen.
Google is facing an antitrust suit that claims the company forces its Android hardware partners to use Google Search, Maps and other services as default applications. Such restrictions in Android mean that for companies like Microsoft, users get less exposure to its Bing search engine and other mobile services.
Cyanogen's modified version of Android lets companies get around those restrictions. The firm also claims to have a volunteer army of 9,000 software developers working on its own version of Android, according to the WSJ.
"We're going to take Android away from Google," Cyanogen CEO Kirt McMaster told the Journal in a brief interview last week. The next day, at an industry event sponsored by tech website The Information, McMaster said Cyanogen had raised $100 million to date; previously the company had disclosed that it raised $30 million of funding. McMaster also said more than 50 million people use a version of the Cyanogen version of Android, most of whom have installed it in place of their phone's initial operating system.
Cyanogen is also working on deals with hardware makers to install the software on their devices, and it recently inked a deal with Indian smartphone maker Micromax to ship phones with Cyanogen's software. Cyanogen has also worked with OnePlus to ship its software in the company's One smartphone.
- see this WSJ article (sub. req.)
- see this Bloomberg article
- see this Ars Technica article
- see this Business Insider article
Google seeks to toss out antitrust lawsuit over default Android apps
New Google antitrust suit over Android could provide ammo to Microsoft, Oracle
Google pushes to dismiss U.S. antitrust suit targeting its Android practices
Analysts: 30% of Android phones in 2015 won't access Google services
Google documents reveal stipulations on Android phone makers accessing Google services


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Samsung has begun the Android 5.0 Lollipop update roll-out for Galaxy Note Edge smartphone. It is currently available over-the-air (OTA) in Australia and is expected to reach other markets in the coming weeks.
The official change-log is not available, but you can expect to see upgraded TouchWiz UX, performance enhancements, ART as default runtime, enhanced notifications, and more.
To remind you, Samsung Galaxy Note Edge is the first curved-screen smartphone from the company and was unveiled alongside Note 4 at IFA trade fair last year. It is currently on sale in select markets globally and will soon be joined by another curved-screen phone from Samsung, which is likely to be dubbed Galaxy S Edge or Galaxy S6 Edge. [Source: YouMobile]
Samsung Galaxy Note 2 to get Lollipop update
In related news, Samsung has confirmed that it will be releasing the Lollipop update for Note II smartphone. Galaxy Note 2 was originally unveiled with Android 4.1 in August 2012 and has since received Android 4.3 and 4.4 updates. Android 5.0 will be the last major Android update for the update.
There is no word on the when the update will reach the smartphone, but we will let you folks as as soon as we hear something credible. [Source: Samsung Poland &


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Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI) has revealed it has developed new technology for detecting tyre wear levels.
Falken Tyre’s parent company, Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd. has opened a new testing facility at its winter tyre development base, Nayoro Tyre Proving Ground in Hokkaido, Japan.
Falken is expanding its motorsport commitment and will be the new Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS) sponsor for the 2021 season.
With over 30 years’ experience, Andy ‘Ace’ Harrison is amongst the UK’s foremost specialists for one of the world’s most loved cars, the original Mini.
Falken’s regional RI 151 and BI 851 tyres have helped customer Kevin Hancock and his Iveco campervan – converted from a former life as a mobile police office –
Falken’s high-performance Azenis FK510 tyre has been selected by Toyota as original equipment for its new electric Mirai.
“All-round talent with good driving characteristics in all weather conditions, balanced steering behaviour and short snow braking distances”,
The Falken tyre brand is this season extending its cooperation with Borussia Mönchengladbach of Germany, and Atlético Madrid of Spain.
Falken and the digital marketing specialist Pixelgenau have been honoured with the German Design Award 2021 in the ‘Special Mention’ category for the sales campaign ‘Falken says tanks’.
“Convincing driving characteristics on snowy and wet slopes; quiet rolling noise” are strengths that the independent testers of Auto Bild Sportcars magazine
Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI), manufacturer of the Falken tyre brand, recently began proof-of-concept testing for a new kind of tyre pressure management solutions service that remotely monitors tyre pressure and temperature.


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NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- When faced with a financial crisis, consumers more often are opting to pay their credit-card bills first before turning to their mortgage payments, according to a report released by Trans Union Wednesday.
In the past, strapped consumers typically would let their credit cards slide and make sure their mortgages were covered, said Sean Reardon, the study's author and a consultant at the Chicago-based credit bureau. But those priorities flipped in the first quarter of 2008, according to the study, and the trend has been picking up steam.
In fact, 6.6% of consumers were delinquent on their mortgages, but current on their credit cards in the third quarter of 2009, according to the most recent data available. Meanwhile, just 3.6% were behind on their credit cards and current on their mortgages.
Why the change? A "perfect storm" of deteriorating housing prices and rising unemployment is likely the reason, Reardon said. It's much easier for consumers to walk away from mortgage payments when their homes aren't building equity, he said, than to neglect their credit cards when that may be the only way they're covering daily expenses.
Just two years earlier, in the third quarter of 2007, the situation was reversed: 3.95% of consumers were delinquent on their mortgages, and current on their credit cards, while 4.6% were behind on their credit cards and current on their mortgages.
In California and Florida -- two of the states hit hardest by the burst housing bubble -- consumers were even more likely to pay their credit cards before their mortgages.
In California, 10.2% were delinquent on their mortgages but current on their credit cards in the third quarter of 2009, vs. 2.7% in the reverse situation. In Florida, 12.4% were behind on their mortgages and current on their credit cards, compared to 3.9% in the opposite situation.
Trans Union conducted the study among consumers that had at least one credit card and one mortgage, and examined 30-day credit card and mortgage delinquency data between the second quarter of 2008 and the third quarter of 2009.
Musk is a long-term thinker in a short-term world, but his runway is running out. More
Producer and consumers may disagree. But analysts say the oil price was near perfect earlier this year. More
Cell phone location data aggregator, LocationSmart, said it has taken a demo feature offline after cybersecurity experts revealed it could be exploited to find location data for millions of cellphones. More
In 1998, Ntsiki Biyela won a scholarship to study wine making. Now she's about to launch her own brand. More


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Submitted by Scott Cleland on Thu, 2007-02-22 19:06
While at first glance it may not be obvious how the public policy debate over "net neutrality" affects the advertising sector -- it does -- and big time.
Let me explain "net neutrality" in the context of advertiser interests.
So why should advertisers care who wins? There are three big reasons why that cut right to the advertising sector's bottom-line and future.
First, companies that advertise very little want to regulate some of the advertising sector's absolutely best corporate clients.
Submitted by Scott Cleland on Thu, 2007-02-22 10:42
eBay-Skype's recent petition to the FCC to impose a form of wireless net neutrality on the competitive wireless carriers is radical, outrageous and incredibly self serving.
Why is this a radical, out-of-the-mainstream idea?
Submitted by Scott Cleland on Tue, 2007-02-20 19:38
I had to flag for folks a seminal quote on net neutrality in the Washington Post article today "Neutrality on the Net gets high '08 Profile."
This obviously very sharp Democratic operative understands what's really going on.
Submitted by Scott Cleland on Tue, 2007-02-20 17:44
The common theme of net neutrality supporters is that there is not enough competition or competitive forces to prevent discrimination.
They assert a broadband duopoly even though the evidence and data don't support their assertions. This is one of the main reasons net neutrality has had so little success in forums where substance, evidence and proof matter.
Last week at the FTC workshop, Amazon and eBay took this competitive discussion to a whole new level of la la land.
Amazon and eBay are no longer for free markets, but for Big Government industrial policy and European style socialism with them as the designated online national champions.
Submitted by Scott Cleland on Mon, 2007-02-19 23:15
It looks like some national net neutrality proponents groups have suckered some well-intentioned, but unsuspecting Maryland delegates into sacraficing Maryland consumers as pawns in their national chess strategy over net neutrality. Maryland consumers deserve much better.
I'll bet the national activists that sold this fraudulent bill of goods to the unsuspecting state delegates, only told their unsubstantiated side of the story -- ill serving Maryland consumers and lawmakers in the process.
Submitted by Scott Cleland on Fri, 2007-02-16 14:13
Qualcomm's MediaFlo subsidiary has a network innovation and will soon have a commercial offering that will make it easier to broadcast TV content to mobile phones.
Qualcomm reportedly is spending about $800m in risk capital to gain spectrum and build a mobile broadcast network for cellphones that will be able to reach about 100 million potential users in the U.S. by mid-year.
Submitted by Scott Cleland on Fri, 2007-02-16 11:11
The Wall Street Journal's lead editorial today: "Broadband Breakout" once again proves that they have a very knowlegable and sophisitcated understanding of the successes of broadband competition, deregulation, and competition and of the risks of "net neutrality" or Internet regulation
The Journal also picked up the point I made here in a previous blog that you have to look at the trajectory of competition, is it increasing?
Submitted by Scott Cleland on Thu, 2007-02-15 18:26
Tim Karr, the campaign director of Free Press that runs much of the SaveTheInternet effort, blogged a personal attack on me today, that I responded to on his blog.
It's not the first time I've been called names by people who wanted to discredit me and my analysis. Among others, you share the august company of the now-imprisoned Bernie Ebbers, who routinely derided me as the "idiot analyst" because I had his number in calling WorldCom "dead model walking" before anyone else in the country figured it out. He too was mistaken that name calling and intimidation could muzzle my views.
Submitted by Scott Cleland on Thu, 2007-02-15 10:51
The highlight of the FTC Broadband connectivity workshop was Phoenix' George Ford's evisceration of Tim Wu's Wireless net neutralty paper.
Mr. Ford also eviscerated Mr. Wu's recommendation to apply the monopoly Carterfone decision to the competitive wireless industry.
Mr. Wu's biggest mistake was submitting this paper before the FTC an organization well-known for its analytical rigor and expertise in the subject of competition.
Submitted by Scott Cleland on Wed, 2007-02-14 10:09
Overall I think the FTC has done a pretty good job of presenting a balanced view of the net neutrality issue. I commend them for calling the workshop "broadband connectivity competition policy." That is what the issue is all about-- in generic non-loaded terminology.
To be brief, I will highlight just what I thought was most noteworthy.
The distinguished practioner and academic, Fred Kahn, is always a joy to learn from. Besides making his main point that government should resist its propensity to meddle he was particularly critical of many people's use of the term "discrimination." As an economist, he was frustrated that people were using the term discriminatory just if it was differential. For those that don't know or understand economics or competition policy, Mr. Kahn stated simply -- if there is opportunity cost involved, its not discriminatory. What he reminded people of is that there are lots of legitimate economic, functional, and consumer welfare reasons why service and prices can and should be different.
Alan Davidson of Google clearly took a different tack than usual. He further retreated trying to respin Google's grandiose vision of net neutrality to be more "reasonable." He gave Google's blessing to the Internet continuing like it is -- charging differently for different speeds. He also gave America Google's permission to continuing caching and stopping denial of service attacks on the Internet. Thank you Google for your permission, it means so much.
Alan Davidson of Google then went on to say that Google only has a very "small" problem with just "one type" of router discrimination -- trying to appear reasonable. Unfortunately, to anyone that uderstands networks and competiton, his "reasonable" approach is about as "reasonable" as a doctor telling a patient that all the parts of their body are healthy but that he just needs to remove their "small" cerebellum.


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Markets rallied Wednesday — pushing U.S. retail stocks to their best day in over a month — as investors sensed that central bankers in Europe and the U.S. were warming to the idea that the economies might require a cash infusion.
The S&P Retail Index rose 2.4 percent, or 14.33 points, to 607.30, the strongest gain since April 27. The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 2.4 percent, or 286.84 points, to 12,414.79.
Among the gainers were three retailers schmoozing with investors at Piper Jaffray’s 32nd Annual Consumer Conference in New York. Urban Outfitters Inc. rose 3.3 percent to $27.59, as Nordstrom Inc. gained 1.6 percent to $47.82, and Abercrombie & Fitch Co. advanced 0.7 percent to $32.64.
Investors wanted to know about Europe, the Internet and everything in between. Here’s what executives had to say.
Michael Koppel, executive vice president and chief financial officer, Nordstrom Inc. • “The e-commerce channel is the next major wave of consumer distribution as malls were 40, 50 years ago.”
• “When we brought [private sale firm HauteLook] back in March of 2011 it had four million members; now it’s got over eight million members. We’re a 110-year-old company and we have roughly 10-plus million names that we had some relationship with and here is this small company and a small shop with less sophisticated technology.…There’s something to be learned there.”
RELATED STORY: Fashion Execs Expect Growth Despit Clouds >> Frank Conforti, cfo, Urban Outfitters Inc. • “It’s very difficult with social media to go and to say, ‘How did that translate into a sale?’ But the way we look at it is all traffic is good traffic. And if our marketing efforts, if our social blogs, if our community is increasing the amount of users that we have, it’s increasing our demand, then that’s good for us.”
• “The Urban brand has 30-plus stores in Europe now, and we believe it could get to a 100-plus stores. Anthropologie is in Europe [and] now has three stores, and we believe that brand can continue to grow [there].”
Jonathan Ramsden, executive vice president and cfo, Abercrombie & Fitch Co. • “If you go back to three years ago today, we had one [Abercrombie & Fitch] store in Europe and we had three Hollister stores in Europe opened. By the end of this year, we’re going to have over 100 stores in Europe and over that relatively short period of time we built a highly profitable, very significant business in Europe and we fully expect to continue with that.…We clearly need to be mindful of the environment and a little bit more conservative in the volumes that we are looking at in the current environment.”
“My personal philosophy to beauty is paying attention to oneself. I love to be outdoors, lots of fresh air, trying to take care of yourself as best you can. I always notice that comes through,” says Felicity Jones, the global face of @shiseido-owned @cledepeaubeauteus, which launches today. Head to WWD.com to read more about the actress’ love for beauty and how she prepared for her new role in “The Basis of Sex,” playing the young Ruth Bader Ginsburg. #wwdbeauty (📷: @dandoperalski)
For men’s fall 2018, @giuseppezanotti drew on elements from streetwear, sport, biker, combat and rock ‘n’ roll. Pictured here are a pair of shoes from the collection, featuring zippers, rhinestones, and silver hardware. Head to WWD.com to see a roundup of the accessories from Milan’s men’s fall 2018 shows. #wwdfashion (📷: Andrea Delb)
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of @ralphlauren’s snowboarding collection, the brand is mining its archives. The iconic brand is reintroducing vintage styles and dropping new designs for a color capsule that will be available in Ralph Lauren stores and @openingceremony on January 25. The capsule will consist of 10 pieces, including the Snow Beach Pullover, pictured here, which is a collector’s item that rapper Raekwon wore in Wu-Tang Clan’s “Can It Be All So Simple” video. #wwdfashion (📷: Tom Gould)
For @rochasofficial’s pre-fall 2018 collection, creative director Alessandro Dell’Acqua channeled the sophisticated and intriguing Catherine Denevue in the film “Belle de Jour.” Polished collarless coats, midi skirts, suits and ’60s graphic motifs were all featured in the collection, adding a sense of discreet luxury. See the rest of the photos on WWD.com #wwdfashion
“We tried to produce clothing of that couture quality, but the most daunting part was that we only had a matter of days [to do it],” said costume designer Lou Eyrich, who recreated Gianni Versace’s iconic looks for @americancrimestoryfx. Eyrich searched online retailers and vintage shops for original pieces from the design house and for @penelopecruzoficial, who plays Donatella Versace. Head to WWD.com to read how she created the Versace world. #wwdfashion
Only three months after her stellar debut catwalk season, @kaiagerber has inked her first big design collaboration –– with @karllagerfeld. The collection blends Lagerfeld’s Parisian chic aesthetic and the model’s signature West Coast casual style via RTW, accessories, footwear and more. The #KarlLagerfeldxKaia collection will launch in September with a series of events. Get all the details on WWD.com. #wwdnews #wwdfashion
Harrods plans to remove the famous statue of Princess Diana and Dodi Al Fayed from the bottom of the Egyptian escalators and hand it back to Mohamed Al-Fayed. “We are very proud to have played our role in celebrating the lives of Diana, Princess of Wales and Dodi Al Fayed at Harrods and to have welcomed people from around the world to visit the memorial for the past 20 years,” said Michael Ward, Harrods managing director. “With the announcement of the new official memorial statue to Diana, Princess of Wales at Kensington Palace, we feel that the time is right to return this memorial to Mr. Al Fayed and for the public to be invited to pay their respects at the palace.” More on the news, with reporting by @loreleimarfil, at WWD.com. #wwdnews


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WASHINGTON (CBS.MW) - Mylan Laboratories tentatively agreed Wednesday to pay up to $147 million to settle allegations it masterminded a scheme that artificially jacked up the price of two popular anxiety medications.
Pittsburgh-based Mylan (MYL), in a statement, denied all wrongdoing, but said a settlement was in the best interests of the company.
Under the terms of the settlement, Mylan would pay $135 million to federal and state authorities, as well as private plaintiffs. The company also agreed to pay up to $12 million in attorney fees.
The FTC and states will receive $100 million in the settlement, with private plaintiffs getting around $35 million. The FTC had sought around $120 million in fines and disgorgement of the company’s allegedly ill-gotten gains.
The FTC and 33 states filed suit in December 1998 alleging that Mylan violated state and federal antitrust laws by using its market power and long-term profit sharing agreements to corner the market on ingredients for two popular drugs -- chlorazepate and lorazepam.
The settlement requires the approval of the FTC commissioners and the state attorneys general, as well as U.S. District Court Judge Thomas F. Hogan.
In a statement, Richard G. Parker, head of the FTC’s Bureau of Competition, said that “in light of the settlement offer made by the defendants, all parties are seeking suspension of pretrial proceedings” in the cases.
The FTC’s decision to seek disgorgement marked a historically aggressive turn for the agency, which has traditionally sought cease-and-desist orders against antitrust violators. Mylan had previously urged the court to throw out the FTC's request for disgorgement, but was rebuffed.
The settlement also addresses claims in several related private class-action lawsuits filed on behalf of consumers and third-party reimbursers. But some private class action suits are still pending, the company said.
The lawsuits alleged that Mylan raised the price of lorazepan by more than 2,000 percent, while the price of chlorazepate soared by 3,000 percent.
“We continue to believe we acted properly. However, the board and I view these settlements to be in the best interest of our company’s shareholders, customers and employees. By putting a significant portion of this case behind us, we can now look forward to devoting our full resources to the business of this company,” said Mylan chief executive Milan Puskar.
The company said it has paid around $20 million to date in legal fees to outside attorneys since the cases were filed in late 1998. A Mylan official said outside legal fees associated with the case were running around $6 million a quarter.
Mylan said it also indemnified three other defendants in the case - Cambrex Corp., Italian drug ingredient maker Profarmaco SrL, and New York-based drug distributor Gyma.
Shares of Mylan rose 7/16 to 19 15/16.


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Gisele Bundchen won't get out of bed for US dollars
Linda Evengelista may not get out of bed for less than $10,000 a day but Gisele Bundchen won't get out of bed for dollars, full stop! The world's richest model has revealed that she refuses to get out of bed unless she is paid in euros now that the US dollar has hit an all time low.
"Contracts starting now are more attractive in euros because we don't know what will happen to the dollar," said her sister and manager, Patricia Bundchen.
One newspaper reported that the supermodel demanded to be paid in euros, following her contract with Pantene. She is also expected to be given a cheque in euros for her work in promoting Dolce & Gabbana's fragrance 'The One'.
Bundchen raked in an estimated $30million (£14million) in the year leading up to June '07in comparison to Kate Moss, who earned an estimated $9million (£4million). So I guess it's only smart business thinking!


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February 10, 2005
Weiler Brothers Open Parts Store In Memphis
The new year has opened with a new business just off the southeast corner of the Memphis square. Weiler Auto Parts opened for business on January 31st, offering a full line of parts for cars and light duty trucks as well as farm machinery.
Owners Galen and Mark Weiler are no strangers to the automotive business. They own and operate a service garage in Rutledge. The brothers recently purchased the former Harris Motors building next to U.S. Bank and have spent the past month preparing to open the parts store.
The Parts Plus affiliate will carry standard vehicle parts as well as a line of tools, repair manuals and Heritage batteries. The store also features Amaco mufflers and carries exhaust pipe for custom jobs. Weiler Auto Parts is a Baldor electric motor dealer, carrying models from ½ horse power up to 10 horse power for grain bin augers and other applications.
Weiler Auto Parts is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday and from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday.
- CHURCH NEWS
- CLASSIFIED ADS
- LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
- SOCIAL NEWS


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Under the Radar Cannabis Stocks That Could Breakout Soon
Without a doubt, the hottest story of 2019 is cannabis.
Multi-billion-dollar industries are already being uprooted by cannabis, including beverages, alcohol, beer, sports drinks, pharmaceuticals, tobacco, and the $3.2 trillion wellness industry, as the cultural renaissance just gets underway.
All thanks to growing acceptance following Canada’s October 2018 legalization, broad approval for its recreational and medicinal use throughout the U.S., and corporate interest.
According to analysts at Cowen, U.S. cannabis sales alone could reach $80 billion by 2030 – an increase of $5 billion from earlier estimates, and a 4% compound annual growth rate.
Globally, Piper Jaffray believes the market for legal cannabis could be worth $15 billion to $50 billion a year, with global sales growing to $250 billion to $500 billion. All thanks to growing acceptance and legalization in countries around the world.
Even with all of this excitement, there are still stocks that are flying well under radar, including:
The End of a Prohibition
Learn How Average Americans are Becoming Marijuana Millionaires!
GET THE FULL REPORT HERE!
OrganiGram Holdings (OGRMF)
OGRMF produces and sells medical marijuana in Canada. As Canada moves to legalize marijuana use on the federal level, the company is ramping up production to capitalize on new market opportunities as an existing licensed producer. An active expansion includes a 15,000 sq. ft. extract processing facility that could prove quite useful, as the market begins to explode.
Another reason to like OGRMF is its agreement with Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation.
"We are pleased to announce our supply agreement with NSLC," says Greg Engel, Organigram's CEO. "Our home markets have always been a key priority for Organigram and this announcement solidifies our position as the market leader here in the Maritimes. With supply arrangements in place in six provinces, we take great pride in our place as a national leader working towards a sustainable and successful adult-use recreational cannabis market."
Khiron Life Sciences (KHRNF)
Analysts at Canaccord Genuity raised their price target on Khiron Life Sciences Corporation to C$6.50 a share. “In our view, the company has a significant number of potential catalysts that should keep share price momentum going. Commercial sales of medical CBD products are expected in the early part of Q2, while a generous commercial THC quote toward mid-year could further validate Khiron’s distribution strategy,” the analysts noted.
“The passing of Mexican medical and recreational cannabis laws (likely in Q2) are also significant potential catalysts and we note that the company is co-hosting a large cannabis conference, CannaMexico, April 25-26.”
PharmaCielo Ltd. (PHCEF)
Analysts at GMP just initiated coverage on PharmaCielo Ltd. with a Buy rating and a price target of C$12. They also note that PCLO is the best pure-play on the global CDB market. “We consider PCLO to be the most advanced Colombian licensed producer currently, providing a ~6–18 month first-mover advantage over nearly all Colombian competitors. In addition, with CBD extract capacity expected to reach ~17 tonnes in 2019, we believe this qualifies PCLO as the largest international publicly-traded producer.”
“With favorable Colombian regulations, we estimate PCLO could have CBD yields ~250x–300x higher than those available to global peers. We believe PCLO could achieve CBD extract production costs as low as ~$0.15–0.25/gram, potentially the lowest globally.”
Bonus Report: Turn a Small Stake into a Fortune:
A new earth-shattering government announcement could completely change the legalization of marijuana - forever. In fact, thanks to this historic legislation, tiny pot stocks trading for under $5 are getting set to double, triple, or quadruple. In an exclusive interview with Money Morning, pot stock expert Michael Robinson shares all the good news - including details on five tiny weed stocks that could potentially turn a small stake into $100,000. CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE.Back


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Gordmans, Anytime Fitness open on Airport Road
Businesses want residents to stay local for shopping and workouts
COSHOCTON - Filling perceived needs in the community is a goal of two new businesses opened in the mini-mall near the Coshocton Wal-Mart on Airport Road.
Gordmans Store and Anytime Fitness recently opened next to each other. One is selling apparel, home decor and more and the other is offering a variety of wellness and workout options around the clock. Management at both said citizens would need to go to bigger cities like Columbus, New Phildelphia or Zanesville to find similar businesses.
Stage Stores recently re-branded its Peebles outlets into Gordmans with 25 being in Ohio. Part of the change over had Stage Stores donating $1,000 to schools in the area of the new Gordmans, with the local dollars going to Coshocton City Schools.
Kim Porter, manager of the local store, said most people compare Peebles to a JC Penny while Gordmans is more like a T.J. Maxx or Marshalls. It has a lot of clothes, furniture, pet items, toys, home decor and more at prices lower than many other chains and isn't tied to specific brands. Inventory will have frequent rollover offering a wider selection.
"Peebles was more of a branded store or department store. We carried specific brands and that was about it," Porter said. "As a Gordmans we're more treasure hunting. We're an off-price store. We'll have new stuff every week and it will be like Christmas every week. Most of the time it won't be the same thing."
Porter said they have some temporary employees to get started, but they will settle around 22 workers. John Schie is a sales associate and freight worker. He enjoys working at the store and said his fellow employees feel like a happy family. He also sees the importance of the store for shoppers being able to get what they need locally.
"We'll have a wider range of variety here that will save the citizens of the community not only time, but money as well than going all the way somewhere else then having to come back home," Schie said.
Founded in 2002, Anytime Fitness has more than 4,000 franchises in 50 countries. It's a co-ed health and fitness club open 24-hours a day all year around. Forbes ranked the firm as the fastest growing health club franchise in 2014 and Entrepreneur Magazine had it at the top of the publication's global franchise list in 2015.
Hannah Bush, manager of the local gym, said they will have three personal trainers and three floating managers who work at various outlets, plus two others helping her run the outlet locally. Bush said they had about 200 sign-ups before the club opened. A grand opening has yet to be set, but members are already using the facility.
They offer VIP platinum and gold memberships with each offering different benefits. The club has 24-hour access, tanning and health coach phone app. Equipment includes weights, cable machines, pin machines, exercise bikes, stair machines and more. Fitness classes will include Pound Fit, Pilates and Zumba. Bush said they hope to have some classes outside in a rarely used rear parking lot.
"It's more to get people excited, involved and to meet. We can build relationships inside the gym and, who knows, you might find a best friend outside the gym also," Bush said of the classes. "It's another way to hold you accountable and have fun with it."
Bush said the phone app includes 1,100 workouts, allows you to put in your own workout goals and can put you in contact with the membership experience manger.
"We don't want anyone coming in here feeling like they're lost or that they don't have a plan," Bush said. "If people can download an app and be able to have immediate access to something, it's great for them and will keep them excited about coming in here."
The VIP membership also includes a fitness consultation, which is basically a free hour with a personal trainer. The trainer will go over a person's goals and health history to help them formulate a workout catering to their needs.
"A lot of people come in here and they haven't joined a gym. They don't know what they're going to be doing," Bush said. "If you tell (the trainer) exactly what you're looking for, they're going to give you a workout getting you to exactly where you want to be."
Bush sees the location as a major asset as they're near a major shopping area and just off U.S. 36. She knows a lot of people go by on their way to other cities for work or to take advantage of other fitness clubs.
"You can come in before work, after work, your days off," Bush said. "This is another 24-hour option for everybody that is close to home and has friendly faces."


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This release contains: 1 Related Document, 3 Photos Indianapolis 500 victory highlighted in monthly racing recap Series viewership expands with new broadcast, cable partners Total reach now extends to 135 million households Takuma Sato’s thrilling victory in the 101st running of the Indianapolis 500 is featured in the latest edition of Honda Racing: at Speed, the monthly recap of Honda Racing and Acura Motorsports activities. The new episode recently premiered on MavTV, a variety of other broadcast and cable providers, and on the Honda Performance Development YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvqVNyhyqhA . May was a banner month for Honda Racing, including Sato’s historic victory at the Indianapolis 500, Formula One champion Fernando Alonso’s foray into Indy car competition at the “500”, Scott Dixon’s thrilling pole run and the Indianapolis debut for Acura sports car team Michael Shank Racing.
Honda Automobiles: All-New 10th Generation Honda Accord Launching This Year with Advanced New Powertrain Lineup
This release contains: 1 Related Document, 6 Photos, 1 Video Two high-performance, high-efficiency turbocharged engines First-ever 10-speed automatic transmission for a front-wheel drive car Available 6-speed manual transmission for both turbo engines Next-generation Honda two-motor hybrid powertrain technology New, more aggressive design direction complements powertrain lineup Honda will launch the most stylish and fun-to-drive Accord ever later this year. The all-new, completely redesigned and reengineered 2018 Honda Accord is the tenth generation of America’s best-selling midsize sedan, the number one choice of individual American car buyers cumulatively since 2010 1
This release contains: 1 Related Document, 2 Photos Next-generation CR-V to make television debut during Super Bowl LI, as America’s best-selling SUV celebrates its 20 th Birthday Builds on last year’s widely viewed Ridgeline pickup introduction Honda is set to return to the big game in 2017 with the television debut of the completely redesigned and reengineered 2017 Honda CR-V on Sun., Feb. 5 during Super Bowl LI, where more than 100 million viewers will get a closer look at the newest edition of America’s best-selling SUV. This is the third time CR-V will be featured during the big game, including the 2012 launch of the previous generation CR-V in a commercial paying homage to a well known coming-of-age characterin “Matthew’s Day Off,” and following the CR-V’s first appearance in 2007
Honda Automobiles: Honda to Debut All-New 2018 Odyssey Minivan at 2017 North American International Auto Show
This release contains: 1 Related Document, 5 Photos Next gen Odyssey to feature new powertrains, advanced connectivity, entertainment and safety promising the ultimate in family-friendly versatility and comfort Odyssey teaser sketch reveals sophisticated, low and wide design “Teaser scribbles” showcase vision of youthful designers Press Conference scheduled for Jan. 9, 2017 @ 12:00 p.m
Honda Automobiles: 2017 Honda Ridgeline is the First and Only Pickup Truck to Earn TOP SAFETY PICK+ Rating from IIHS
This release contains: 1 Related Document, 1 Photo Six Honda models among top IIHS-rated vehicles for 2017 Honda is a top leader in safety ratings TORRANCE, Calif. – The 2017 Honda Ridgeline, a finalist for the 2017 North American Truck of the Year award, is the first and only pickup truck to earn the highest possible safety rating of TOP SAFETY PICK+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). For the 2017 model year, three Honda models earned a TOP SAFETY PICK+ and three models received a TOP SAFETY PICK rating under the Institute’s more stringent 2017 ratings requirements, making Honda a top leader in safety ratings in the automotive industry


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Insights from the UK and beyond
A new report from Ofcom, reveals that more than 30 percent of homes in Britain don’t have basic broadband service.
The study will become part of the government’s Digital Britain report, which is intended to help keep the UK economically and culturally competitive by promoting broadband access.
“We hope the research will help assist an informed debate on the options available to society to help ensure that the social and economic benefits of the Internet are spread as widely as possible,” the media regulator said in a statement.
“The inclusion of everyone into the digital world has emerged as an important principle in our society.”


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Actress Tayo Sobola Expresses Shock Over Alias Given To A ‘Boyfriend’
Fast rising Yoruba actress, Sotayo Sobola, popularly known as Tayo Gaga or Sotayo Gaga has taken to social media to reveal the shocking thing she saw on someone’s phone.
Tayo revealed the name used to store the number is “My future”.
Asking if people still store their lovers’ names with such, she wrote;
“Someone’s phone rang and i saw My future… Ehen… Really??? People still dey store numbers like this?”


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📩 06/03/2023 12:05
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang presented the Government Working Report at the 14st Meeting of the 1th National People's Assembly. Li Keqiang stated that in 2022, the Chinese economy has achieved stable growth, the quality of development has increased, social stability has been preserved, and new achievements have been achieved in China's development, which is not easy.
Recalling that last year, China's economic growth faced pressures brought by many unexpected domestic and foreign factors as well as COVID-19, Li noted that under the leadership of the CCP Central Committee, economic and social developments were advanced while the epidemic was brought under control, and epidemic prevention measures were improved.
Prime Minister Li reminded that the Chinese economy grew by 3 percent last year, the unemployment rate in the country decreased to 5,5 percent and the CPI was recorded as 2 percent, while reaching the annual development targets set for the Chinese economy in a complex and volatile environment, while maintaining a strong economy. underlined his resistance.
Reminding that China's GDP has reached 121 trillion yuan, Li stated that the average annual growth rate in the last five years has reached 5,2 percent. "China's GDP has increased by about 70 trillion yuan in the past ten years, and the annual average growth rate has reached 6,2 percent," said Li, adding that while the reform and opening-up practices in the country continued in the last 5 years, the joint construction of the Belt and Road He stated that China's foreign trade volume has exceeded 40 trillion yuan.
In the report, which draws attention to the fact that China continues to rank first in the world in terms of foreign capital attracted and foreign investments, it was noted that fruitful results were obtained in areas such as fighting poverty, scientific and technological innovation and improving the ecological environment.
The growth target for 2023 is around 5 percent.
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang announced that the growth target of the Chinese economy this year is set to be around 5 percent. In the report, the target of creating 2023 million new jobs in cities and towns and reducing the registered unemployment rate in cities and towns to 12 percent in 5,5 was also set.
Li also stated that they will work to maintain the Consumer Price Index (CPI) at 2023 percent in 3 and to keep the income growth of the people at the same level as economic growth. Prime Minister Li said that while the stability in foreign trade is preserved and the quality of foreign trade is increased, the balance of payments will also be preserved, and that grain production will be kept above 650 million tons and the ecological environment will be improved.


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HSN promotes two executives
March 8, 2013 01:46 PM
TV and web retailer HSN Inc. made two executive promotions this week.
Bill Brand becomes chief marketing and business development officer, giving him oversight of the retailer’s overall marketing standards and direction. Andy Sheldon is the new chief creative officer for HSN and general manager of HSN Productions, a job that will have him managing the retailer’s live productions, along with HSN’s live music and entertainment business.
"Bill and Andy have the vision and expertise to help us continue to redefine the shopping experience and drive growth across all our businesses," says HSN CEO and director Mindy Grossman. “Both Bill and Andy have been an integral part of the transformation of HSN over the past six years and we will now leverage their talent and expertise across our portfolio.”
HSN is No. 26 in the Internet Retailer Top 500 Guide.
Brand previously worked as HSN’s executive vice president of programming, marketing and business development, a job he started in March 2009, according to his LinkedIn profile. He joined HSN in 2006 as its senior vice president, programming. He had held a variety of media-related jobs, including as a TV news director and a vice president for MTV Networks.
Sheldon was HSN’s executive vice president television and executive creative director, according to his LinkedIn profile. He’s worked at HSN for about seven years. His previous job was head of broadcasting for iBuy TV, a U.K.-based home shopping network.
At the Internet Retailer Conference & Exhibition 2013 in Chicago this June, Grossman, the HSN CEO, will give a keynote speech on June 6 entitled "How Boundaryless Retail Drives 21st Century Success.” That speech reflects the conference’s theme of “Breaking Barriers Toward a New Retail Economy.”


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Netflix, Inc. (NFLX) Rating Reiterated by Piper Jaffray Companies
Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX)‘s stock had its “overweight” rating reaffirmed by research analysts at Piper Jaffray Companies in a report released on Wednesday. They presently have a $215.00 price objective on the Internet television network’s stock. Piper Jaffray Companies’ price target points to a potential upside of 16.56% from the stock’s current price.
Other equities research analysts have also recently issued research reports about the company. Cantor Fitzgerald upped their price target on Netflix from $165.00 to $190.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a research note on Tuesday, June 6th. Vetr upgraded shares of Netflix from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating and set a $168.81 price objective on the stock in a research report on Monday, June 12th. Canaccord Genuity lifted their price objective on shares of Netflix from $165.00 to $175.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a research report on Friday, June 16th. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued an “outperform” rating and issued a $175.00 price objective on shares of Netflix in a research note on Friday, June 16th. Finally, BidaskClub cut shares of Netflix from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Saturday, June 17th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seventeen have issued a hold rating and twenty-nine have issued a buy rating to the stock. The stock presently has an average rating of “Buy” and a consensus price target of $180.91.
Netflix (NASDAQ NFLX) traded up 2.94% on Wednesday, reaching $184.45. 9,176,629 shares of the company were exchanged. Netflix has a 52 week low of $97.63 and a 52 week high of $191.50. The stock has a market capitalization of $79.64 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 224.39 and a beta of 1.09. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $176.72 and a 200 day moving average price of $162.91.
Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Monday, July 17th. The Internet television network reported $0.15 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts’ consensus estimates of $0.16 by ($0.01). Netflix had a return on equity of 12.82% and a net margin of 3.55%. The company had revenue of $2.79 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.76 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $0.09 earnings per share. The firm’s revenue was up 32.3% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts forecast that Netflix will post $1.17 earnings per share for the current year.
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In related news, CEO Reed Hastings sold 109,214 shares of Netflix stock in a transaction on Monday, July 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $188.61, for a total value of $20,598,852.54. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 109,214 shares in the company, valued at approximately $20,598,852.54. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, insider Gregory K. Peters sold 12,768 shares of Netflix stock in a transaction on Tuesday, July 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $177.38, for a total value of $2,264,787.84. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 19,208 shares in the company, valued at $3,407,115.04. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 310,325 shares of company stock worth $55,807,018 in the last ninety days. Corporate insiders own 4.90% of the company’s stock.
Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Almanack Investment Partners LLC. purchased a new position in Netflix in the 2nd quarter worth about $101,000. TD Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in Netflix during the 2nd quarter worth about $105,000. SRS Capital Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in Netflix by 3,361.9% during the 1st quarter. SRS Capital Advisors Inc. now owns 727 shares of the Internet television network’s stock worth $107,000 after buying an additional 706 shares during the period. Harfst & Associates Inc. acquired a new stake in Netflix during the 1st quarter worth about $109,000. Finally, Aviance Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in Netflix during the 2nd quarter worth about $137,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 81.03% of the company’s stock.
Netflix, Inc is a provider an Internet television network. The Company operates through three segments: Domestic streaming, International streaming and Domestic DVD. The Domestic streaming segment includes services that streams content to its members in the United States. The International streaming segment includes services that streams content to its members outside the United States.
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Players who use a casino’s cashless system for gambling tend to spend more, even though the technology is not yet perfected, two experts said Wednesday.
“It’s about a 15- to 20-percent increase in their funds access,” said Darren Simmons, executive vice president and FinTech business leader for Everi Holdings, whose CashClub Wallet debuted in late 2020. He said individual transactions tend to be smaller than comparable ones using physical cash, but users make more of them, “so they’re actually getting more cash.”
Omer Sattar, co-founder and co-CEO of Sightline Payments, said he had found a similar trend.
While consumers of nongaming industries typically spend 12-18 percent more after switching to electronic transactions, Sattar said, “We’re seeing a number much higher than that” – in some cases as much as 30 percent. He cautioned that operators should not expect that large a jump in slot drop, but they should weigh the increase in spending by customers using cashless against the reduction in casino income resulting from fewer people paying onsite ATM fees to access their money.
Sattar and Simmons spoke at an AGS GameON Customer Summit session called “Money Talks: Cashless Tech is Here to Stay.” David Lopez, the chief executive of AGS, moderated.
While the goal is to make cashless transactions as easy as possible for customers, Simmons and Sattar do not foresee what some might consider the ultimate attraction: a single e-wallet that could be used at any casino, regardless of brand or casino-management system. They said gaming executives do not want players to access money in one casino, then spend it at a competitor across the street.
Sattar said a universal e-wallet accepted at casinos throughout the United States would need 25 million customers. Building a brand of that size would require a $3 billion marketing campaign, “and no one’s cutting a $3 billion check,” he said.
Sattar cited table-game players as one hurdle that cashless technology providers must overcome.
“How do you get a consumer to sit down and easily buy into a table game without slowing the flow? Will you change the economics of the game by making it too slow?” he asked. He also pointed to basic questions, such as printing receipts to put into the drop box and how accountants treat a cashless buy-in.
Simmons said cashless transactions will not totally replace folding money.
“Cash is still king,” he said. “We’re fully invested in (cashless), but I think it’s about choice.” People use all sorts of different payment methods, including PayPal, Apple Pay, cash, and going to an ATM. “Our view is you give people choice. That’s what they want.”
Using cash provides a degree of anonymity, panelists said, and some players use cash as a sort of budgeting tool. If they spend the cash they brought or withdrew from an ATM, they’re done.
Sattar predicted that 50-60 percent of casino transactions will still be in physical money five years from now.
The rate of players converting to cashless will vary, he said, with destination resorts, such as those on the Las Vegas Strip, having fewer than other operations. He compared players to Starbucks customers who get a latte every three months and those who stop every workday.
“Are (occasional customers) really going to download the mobile app and create an account and re-fund the account? Do (they) really care about Starbucks loyalty?” he asked.
Simmons said one of Everi’s customers reported about 20 percent of active players use the cashless wallets, with more signing up each day.
Sattar and Simmons cited the safeguards that cashless transactions offer for responsible gambling and transparency of transactions.
Sattar said regulators now are quicker to accept cashless technology, a “completely different world from three or four years ago.”
Simmons said regulators value the responsible-gambling tools built into cashless transactions, including the ability to set personal spending limits or self-exclude.


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Spring 2020 | Designer Week + Furniture Sample Sale CANCELLED
Sunday, March 29th
IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO BUYERS
Corona Virus Update: LA Mart Spring Market and Designer Week is canceled.
In light of the spread of COVID-19 into a global health pandemic, and regulations nationwide aiming to restrict its spread through our communities, Spring Market and Spring Designer Week has now been canceled. Please check back regularly for updates.


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Inflation has jumped by a record 0.9%, with the hospitality sector leading the way on price rises in August.
Inflation across the British economy has surged, with the Consumer Price Index including owner occupiers' housing costs (CPIH) measure hitting 3% for the 12 months to August.
In its latest update, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) also revealed Consumer Price Index inflation (CPI), without housing costs, has reached 3.2%.
The climb of 0.9% on last month’s 2.1% CPIH figure represents the biggest jump recorded since the introduction of the measure in January 2006.
A 3% reading is uncomfortable for the Bank of England, which is mandated to keep inflation to 2%. It further calls into question claims that above-target inflation is merely a short term blip, or ‘transitory’.
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The ONS said the largest contributors to the overall rise in prices were restaurants, hotels, recreation, culture, food and non-alcoholic beverages.
This does offer some mitigation for policymakers to point to, as August 2020 saw the government’s Eat Out To Help Out scheme artificially supress pricing across the hospitality sector.
There is diminishing room for manoeuvre however, and each reading well above 2% brings rate rises nearer.
“It’s undeniable that markets are worried,” commented Scott Spencer, investment manager at BMO Global Asset Management. If inflation persists, it could spur the Bank of England to lift interest rates to quell rampant economic growth.”
“The concerns are not new, but investor unease is the highest it has been for around 15 years. In broad-brush terms, rising inflation tends to be seen as bad news for markets.”
“For equities, it can make it harder for companies to increase their earnings growth and, with bonds, it can make the securities that investors hold feel less valuable. If interest rates go up, it makes the returns available on newly issued bonds look more attractive.”
Becky O’Connor, Head of Pensions and Savings at interactive investor, said: “Rapidly rising prices affect everyone, and today’s data confirms what people have felt over the summer – that everything is suddenly, noticeably more expensive."
“While inflation affects everyone, it is more of a problem for people on lower fixed incomes, including pensioners. It’s also relentlessly hard on savers, who are also likely to be older and who were already struggling to make saving at low interest rates worthwhile."
Debapratim De, senior economist at Deloitte, said: “August's annual inflation figure overstates price rises due to base effects, but the monthly inflation estimate, which has hit a three-year high, does not. The higher-than-expected monthly rise in inflation and input prices testifies to supply shortages, building up further price pressure.”
“The data seem consistent with the Bank of England's expectations of some modest tightening in the coming years. If UK growth continues as currently forecast, we are likely to see the first rate rise by next summer.”
- Will ‘transitory’ inflation start to be worryingly persistent soon?
- The inflation-proof shares fund managers are backing
- Ian Cowie: four inflation-beating trusts yielding 4.5% or more
Rachel Springall, finance expert at Moneyfacts.co.uk, said: “Savings rates have improved vastly since last month which will be great news for consumers looking for a competitive return on their cash.
“However, inflation overshadows the positive shift, as the latest figure of 3.2% is the largest rise month-on-month since records began and not one standard savings account can beat its eroding power.
“There is an expectation for inflation to stay above the Bank of England target of 2% for some time yet, but it is vital savers do not become apathetic as they could miss out on some of the best rates we have seen all year.”
“Locking cash away for longer may not be feasible for some, indeed consumers may be reluctant to invest longer than a year at most due to the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic on their financial health.”
These articles are provided for information purposes only. Occasionally, an opinion about whether to buy or sell a specific investment may be provided by third parties. The content is not intended to be a personal recommendation to buy or sell any financial instrument or product, or to adopt any investment strategy as it is not provided based on an assessment of your investing knowledge and experience, your financial situation or your investment objectives. The value of your investments, and the income derived from them, may go down as well as up. You may not get back all the money that you invest. The investments referred to in this article may not be suitable for all investors, and if in doubt, an investor should seek advice from a qualified investment adviser.
Full performance can be found on the company or index summary page on the interactive investor website. Simply click on the company's or index name highlighted in the article.


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Coronavirus isn’t exactly the ideal brand association.
Being associated with a potentially fatal disease is not what most advertisers want for their products.
However, others adhere to the old adage that all exposure is good exposure.
Like Pepsi, who have drawn ire for using a poster directing people to a coronavirus testing site to promote their soda.
What absolute dystopian hell world are we living in. https://t.co/Srnot6ZUji — Firr (@Firr)
Reportedly located in Orlando, Florida, the poster directs people seeking a test to a local Walmart.
It also features a giant picture of an ice-cold Pepsi, accompanied by the tagline “That’s what I like”.
The poster did not have the intended effect; instead it left consumers with rather a sour taste.
There were jokes about the implied sponsorship.
@Firr Covid-19, brought to you by Pepsi cola. — Dragoneer (@Dragoneer)
Several people compared it to Mike Judge’s 2006 sci-fi comedyIdiocracy.
Me, in the early 2000s: Idiocracy is a mean-spirited movie and is wrong on how intelligence develops in humans over… https://t.co/yISatzDrST — Philipp Bayer (@Philipp Bayer)
Some defended Pepsi, arguing that at least the sign existed.
But it was quickly pointed out that in other countries, corporation tax paid by the likes of Pepsi means that the government can fund non-branded public health signage.
@PhotonWolfsky @Firr You do know other countries just have corporations pay tax so that the elected government can… https://t.co/ZgCa2NiQ4h — 🇳🇿 Alison Sammes▪ (@🇳🇿 Alison Sammes▪)
Pepsi’s quality of flavour was even questioned.
@Firr Imagine having covid AND having to drink pepsi. — John Notabear (@John Notabear)
Although some pointed out that could make it pair well with a particular Covid-19 symptom.
@Beartruck1 @Firr Well, COVID does knock out your taste buds, so I guess that works out — Megs (@Megs)
All in all, it was basically a disastrous branding exercise.
Pepsi weren't the only offenders though; Subway were also called out in the thread for giving away free PPE... if people bought sandwiches.
@Firr I take your Pepsi and up you a Subway! 🤦🏻♀ Linking Fred PPE to purchase is surely one step worse? WTF is wr… https://t.co/1qrrtXs4zP — Kalin 11:11 🤍 (@Kalin 11:11 🤍)
As for Pepsi, they told TheHuffington Postthe sign has been taken down, saying it was:
An unfortunate mistake by one of our local sales associates that in trying to move with speed to get this important testing message up, did not follow proper approval protocols.
Perhaps a billboard would be more effective next time.


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2015 New Spring Summer Louis Vuitton Menswear Collection Launched
louisvuitton Fashion Trends
Early in last week, on June 26th, Louis Vuitton had been launched its 2015 Spring/Summer Menswear collection in the Paris Men’s Fashion Week. The latest new mens Louis Vuitton fashion collection made for the “modern Maharajah,” designed by Kim Jones. Under Kim Jones, meanswear at Louis Vuitton has always exuded a certain easy luxury focused no the details and fabrics, as is fit for the luxury male consumer, and this season was no different.
In the 2015 Spring Summer Mens Collection, V-focused iconography that cropped up in this collection in lock step with his reformed female counterpart. Look at the latest Kim Jones’s LV Menswear collection, it is a former Central Saint Martins professor who had suggested that Jones make a pilgrimage to India last February. And the collection is informed with the modern Indian cool which featuring contemporary DB suits, military-inspired flight jackets and jumpsuits, and chinos and short-sleeved shirt combinations accessorized with decadent touches. Here, we take a full view about latest new Louis Vuitton Spring 2015 menswear collection below, take a view and you can also bough mens lv handags at purselvforum.com.
Tag: Louis Vuitton Menswear


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It’s hard to imagine that the OTT space could get even more crowded than it already is, but that’s what 2019 is about to usher in. A slew of new streaming services will arrive on the scene, going toe-to-toe with current big players like Netflix, HBO Now, Hulu, Showtime, Amazon and YouTube Premium.
Here are the biggest streaming offerings set to roll out next year.
The company, which completed its $85 billion purchase of Time Warner in June, will launch a direct-to-consumer offering in Q4 of 2019.
The still-unnamed OTT product, which AT&T first announced in October and shared more deals about with investors last month, will rely heavily on content from WarnerMedia, including HBO and the Warner Bros. library.Randall Stephenson said earlier this month that it will be a three-tiered service with a “core platform of movies,” which will be followed by a second tier of original programming and blockbuster movies and a third layer that features the library content (some of which could be licensed from third-parties), including classics, kids/family and niche programming.
AT&T doesn’t intend for the service “to become another Netflix,” said Stephenson, explaining that it is “not our ambition” for the OTT product to rival Netflix as a “warehouse of content.”
Disney has slowly rolled out information about its upcoming OTT channel, Disney+, which is expected to launch in late 2019.
The channel will feature a second live-action Star Wars series, currently in development, and though it will have less content than Netflix, Walt Disney Company chairman and CEO Robert Iger said it would be cheaper. The app will feature programming from brands such as Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Lucasfilm.
“We’re going to walk before we run as it relates to volume of content, because it takes time to build the kind of content library that ultimately we intend to build,” Iger said in August.
Apple has greenlit a number of original shows during the past year—including one about the morning news starring Steve Carell, Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Aniston—but it’s not clear on which platform that content will live when it is finally released. That content is finally expected to be rolled out next year, though specifics remain under wraps.
Viacom CEO Bob Bakish said his company is taking a “multifaceted” OTT strategy and will include direct-to-consumer options as well as producing content to sell to other services or content library.
“We do believe there is an opportunity on AVOD, ad-supported video on demand, and that is useful for building a funnel into our subscription products,” Bakish said at the UBS Global Media and Communications Conference.
Viacom has already tiptoed into the OTT space and has content from its Nickelodeon brand on a standalone “NickSplat” channel on video aggregation platform, VRV.
Discovery, Inc. executives have said they’re considering a direct to consumer offering, especially now that the company has 17 networks in its portfolio after merging in March with Scripps Networks Interactive.
Though execs have said they’re only considered the options, which could include bundling a number of brands, like HGTV, Food Network and TLC, in one channel. In theory, it could cost as low as $5 to $8 per month, said president and CEO David Zaslav in July.
There’s no timetable on when such a bundle might be available, though—if they decide to move forward with it. The channel, made up of “these great global brands with characters and shows and a fantastic library,” could sell globally, Zaslav said.


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Grower-shippers began harvesting in late September and increased volume since then.
Al Finch, vice president of sales and marketing for Florida Classic Growers, the marketing arm of the Dundee Citrus Growers Association, said retailers have scheduled December promotions for 4- and 8-pound bagged navels.
“Quality has been good,” he said in early November. “The internal and external quality has been excellent, and sizing has been running on the normal sizes. This has been a traditional season, but it should be an outstanding year for navels.”
The ending of the offshore deal in late October helped boost trade interest in promoting Florida’s navels, Finch said.
When Florida growers harvested from larger navel acreage, volume typically ran past Christmas.
Today, most growers try to finish by Christmas, said Russell Kiger, sales manager of DLF International Inc., Vero Beach.
“This year, the navels are a very good-looking crop overall,” Kiger said in early November. “The flavor’s very good on them early. They have good size and strong flavor. Everything’s good about them this year.”
A small number of growers usually pack navels after Jan. 1, but the deal won’t bring the heavy volume it normally ships during the latter part of the year, said Dave Brocksmith, Florida citrus manager for Vero Beach-based Seald Sweet International.
The November fundraising business helps drive sales, he said.
“The quality this year is excellent,” Brocksmith said in early November. “It has good acids and good sugars, which make it a fine eating piece of fruit.”
Sizing is large this year, Brocksmith said.
He said navels are peaking on the 64s, 56s and 80s in respective volume.
Because of later running imports, Florida grower-shippers missed the deal’s early window, said Kevin Swords, Florida citrus sales manager for DNE World Fruit Sales in Fort Pierce.
He said imported fruit remained heavy in key Northeast supermarkets in mid-November.
“The navel situation has been tough,” Swords said. “And with California starting early we have lost a lot of marketing opportunities. We have had several customers that went from imports to California. It has made it a challenge as far as promotions.”
Typically, California begins volumes in mid-November. This year, however, it began strong shipments in mid-October, Swords said.
Swords characterized eating quality as good and said the season is bringing more medium sizes, which Swords said is more compatible with demand.
He said color was maturing and retailers should find adequate volume for promotions.
After navels finish harvesting in late December, a variety of midseason oranges help keep movement going until the late season valencias begin harvesting in late February and March.
Hamlins, pineapples and valencias are the juice oranges or the varieties consumers us to make fresh juice.
Hamlins run through early January and temples start in mid-January and harvest through mid-February.
Florida Classic’s Finch said the hamlins look strong and are producing sizes peaking on the 125s and 100s, making them suitable for 4-pound bag promotions.
Temples typically begin harvesting in January.
“We always have nice temples,” said Matt Reel, director of sales for IMG Citrus Inc., Vero Beach. “Though the variety has been around for a long time, the temples are good for retailers that want to do something different. They’re a good product retailers like to promote from mid-January through mid-February.”
Reel said temple demand went well last season.
Though it’s too early to discuss what this year’s valencia crop could bring, DLF’s Kiger said growers expect a favorable season.
Kiger said strong juice demand helps keep prices a little higher than in the past. Fresh shippers must often battle cannery buyers for fruit, he said.
IMG’s Reel said the juice oranges are seeing increased demand.
More shoppers and retailers are getting into fresh squeezing, he said.
In mid-November, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported these prices for 4/5-bushel cartons of U.S. No. 1 Florida navels arriving in Boston: $19 for 40s, 48s, 56s, 64s and 80s.
Last year in early November, the USDA reported Florida navels in Boston selling at $22 for 36s, 40s, 48s and 80s; $20-21 for 56s and $20 for 64s.