text:
AKRONTire dealers looking for an intensive educational program aimed at developing the next generation of tire dealers have a new option.
Northwood University, located in Midland, Mich., has introduced Tire Leadership 21, a two-week program covering a wide range of business, management and leadership topics that the organizers say are critical to the success of future independent tire dealer managers and owners.
The program was created with the help of a group of tire dealers through an organization dubbed the Center for Tire & Service Education.
Northwood is a fully accredited, private, non-profit business university that specializes in managerial and entrepreneurial education.
The program's structure features a pair of one-week, on-campus sessions with students attending both sessions. The first session will take place April 14-19 at Northwood's Michigan campus; the second, Sept. 7-12 at Northwood's campus in West Palm Beach, Fla.
Between sessions, students will be required to complete an individual program that must deliver $25,000 in annual additional revenue or savings to their employers.
Cost of the program, which includes tuition, meals and class materials, is $5,995. On-campus hotel-style accommodations are available.
This program addresses a long-standing need in the tire industry, said Richard Brahler, president of Brahler's Truckers Supply Inc. in Jacksonville, Ill. Every tire dealer has wondered where they will find good managers to run a new store or how to retain and grow key employees to make this a career and not just a job. This program was designed to foster that growth.
Educational sessions will be taught by Northwood faculty, according to Brian Cruickshank, director of the school's University of the Aftermarket.
While Tire Leadership 21 is not a degree-seeking program, it will have the same academic rigor as any degree program, he said.
Faculty will come from a combination of Northwood's DeVos Graduate School of Management and experts within the tire and service industries.
Subject matter will cover finance, accounting, business strategy, management, corporate vision, leadership, operations, industry trends, marketing and social media, team and corporate culture, the customer experience, critical thinking and problem resolution.
The 2014 Tire Leadership 21 program will be limited to 30 participants on a first-come, first-served basis. Discounts are available for dealers sending more than one participant to the program.


text:
Sterling Furniture has signed a six-year, full-service contract hire agreement with Fraikin for 12 new DAF rigid trucks. The latest deal sees Sterling Furniture order nine 7.5-tonne DAF LFs and three 12-tonne LFs, all featuring Luton bodies. Each truck represents a like-for-like replacement for older assets previously supplied by Fraikin. The new additions join a 28-strong commercial vehicle fleet delivering furniture through Scotland and North East England. Craig Wilson, head of distribution at Sterling Furniture, said: “Contract hiring our trucks […]
The 50 largest commercial vehicle rental and leasing businesses in the UK had more assets on their books in 2016 than the largest 100 did in 2015 – according to research conducted for the 2016 edition of CV Informer.
Vehicle rental firm Ryder has relocated its Northampton operation to larger premises in the Swan Valley area.

domain: news


text:
Why come to Cannes and AI in action through Chef Wendy
Shortening attention spans, Vice partnership for Broadly and becoming a content producer
Marketing editor Rachel Barnes met up with Unilever CMO Keith Weed for an exclusive video in Cannes this week, where they discussed the utility of artificial intelligence, the company's partnership with Vice to launch a millennial women's channel and why marketers need to come to Cannes Lions.
Join a growing community of media, marketing and advertising professionals today
Read exclusive registrant only articles
Read more articles each month
Sign up for free specialised news bulletinsRegister Now


text:
Responding to a rise in anti-Asian sentiment, American Girl has created a Chinese American doll to be its 2022 “Girl of the Year,” to attempt to train kids to face towards racism.
The doll, named Corinne Tan, is 18 inches tall and comes with an fascinating again story: She is a powerhouse skier from Aspen, Colo., who’s constructing the braveness to answer “xenophobic feedback,” the corporate mentioned in an announcement final week.
Corinne’s story could also be fiction, however the feedback aren’t. Violence towards Asian Americans has swelled throughout the pandemic, largely perpetrated by those that tied the coronavirus to China.
That is why many Asian Americans have hailed Corinne as an necessary — and, maybe, overdue — step by American Girl to show kids about anti-Asian racism.
The firm’s “Girl of the Year” dolls, which have been rolling out since 2001, are meant to answer “the realities of the occasions — each good and dangerous,” an organization spokeswoman mentioned on Monday.
“We knew it was necessary for Corinne’s story to point out the unlucky rise in anti-Asian sentiment throughout the U.S. because the pandemic,” the spokeswoman mentioned.
The firm hoped that the doll would validate the experiences of youngsters who’ve endured racism, whereas additionally inspiring kids to be “antiracism allies,” the spokeswoman added.
In 2017, the “Girl of the Year” doll was Black; in 2018, it was Chilean.
Racism within the United States has usually translated into kids’s toy bins, the place dolls had been historically white. Children can derive significant classes from their toys, which is why some within the toy business have lengthy pushed for extra various dolls.
Over the years, toy analysts and fogeys of Asian kids have mentioned that Asian dolls have been among the many scarcest, making Corinne a considerably uncommon determination by American Girl.
Of the corporate’s roughly 60 dolls, six, together with Corinne, have been of Asian descent, one other American Girl spokeswoman mentioned. The firm discontinued its solely different Chinese American doll, Ivy Ling, in 2014, prompting an outcry from mother and father.
Business & Economy: Latest Updates
Updated Jan. four, 2022, 11:25 a.m. ETTesla opens a dealership in Xinjiang, drawing accusations it’s serving to China ‘cowl up genocide.’Five takeaways from the decision within the Elizabeth Holmes trial.Toyota topped G.M. in U.S. automotive gross sales in 2021, a primary for a overseas automaker.
In 2006 and 2011, the “Girl of the Year” dolls had been partially of Asian descent, the corporate mentioned.
American Girl has constructed an empire off its dolls, which have been a permanent phenomenon because the firm was based in 1986. Children have clamored for the dolls — which price upward of $100 — not only for the toys themselves, but additionally for the journey they convey. American Girl shops supply “spas” and “hair salons” the place kids can curl their doll’s hair or put cucumbers on their eyes.
Parents usually don’t thoughts the value, as a result of the dolls and their again tales have been used to elucidate troublesome topics, together with divorce, struggle and financial hardship.
In addition to racism, Corinne’s again story explores blended households. Her mother and father are separated, and she or he is studying to dwell with a brand new stepfather, the corporate mentioned. Her story was written by the creator Wendy Wan-Long Shang.
“What I actually hope is that there’s some a part of Corinne’s story that makes readers really feel seen,” Ms. Shang mentioned in an announcement.
When Corinne debuted final week, American Girl mentioned it was donating $25,000 to AAPI Youth Rising, a corporation that teaches college students about anti-Asian xenophobia.
Corinne went on sale final week and will likely be bought for 2 years “at minimal,” the corporate mentioned.
Some Twitter customers expressed pleasure over the doll and applauded the communities it represented.
“This makes me very proud,” one consumer wrote. “Finally after years of ready — far into maturity, this occurs.”
Corinne, who has a bit sister, has her detractors, nevertheless. Some Twitter customers have criticized the blue streaks within the doll’s hair, which have generally been used to point that an Asian girl is rebellious. Others have commented on how heavy Corinne’s story is, since she learns about divorce and racism at such a younger age.
It is certainly a tricky childhood for Corinne. On the American Girl web site, it says that she has to be taught “easy methods to stand as much as racist bullies,” together with when a boy tells her she has “Kung Flu,” a racist characterization of Covid-19 utilized by former President Donald J. Trump.
The web site added, “Corinne is proud to be Chinese American, however racism leaves her tongue-tied.”


text:
Nothing attracts buyers of old tech more than a price increase
While the social notworking site Meta appears to want to get everyone on board with its metaverse vision, it seems it is taking an odd approach.
Kiwi shrinks discover
A six-week clinical trial of a phone-based app called oVRcome, which is designed to treat phobias using a combination of mindfulness modules and virtual reality exposure therapy, has been successful.
In the office
Software King of the World Microsoft apparently has a problem with its managers using VR to watch soft porn in the office.
LED for augmented and mixed reality devices
Google has written a cheque to buy Raxium, a "five-year-old startup that develops tiny light-emitting diodes for displays used in augmented and mixed reality devices."
Will lean on Google
Facebook parent company Meta has stopped development of a new software operating system to power its virtual reality devices and upcoming augmented reality glasses.
Everything is about adverts
Sony Interactive Entertainment has worked out how to destroy VR by inserting adverts.
Software developer Danny Bittman tweeted about how he's convinced that his eyesight was damaged from wearing a VR headset for hours a day.
Analysis: The age of always-connected, 5G and XR is now
Olivia Newton-John released her song Physical in 1981. March and April 2020 have been full of news of the unfortunate COVID-19 around the world, but I wanted to point out that despite the desperation, this is a time for technology to thrive. Let’s not get physical to save lives and instead use connectivity Wi-Fi or 5G in an always-connected device is possible and in VR or AR.
Only minimum requirements for now
Valve has now revealed its VR-only Half-Life: Alyx, a prequel to Half-Life 2 and developed on Valve's Source 2 engine, and today, we see its first system requirements, at least the minimum ones.


text:
BMW Indicates That Dual-Clutch Transmissions Are on Their Way Out
BMW is casting aside dual-clutch and manual transmissions in favor of more advanced automatic transmissions
For years, one of the most relevant dichotomies in the automotive world was the choice between an automatic and a manual transmission. Unfortunately for those who can drive a stick and enjoy doing so, manual transmissions are slowly becoming a thing of the past, with more brands than ever abandoning the option.
One such brand is, surprisingly, BMW. The German automaker, famous for its performance vehicles, is only set to include manual transmission options for its M2, M3, and M4 models henceforth.
However, manual transmissions aren’t the only gearboxes in danger of disappearing from the BMW lineup. BMW representatives recently indicated that dual-clutch transmissions are on their way out as well.
Australian automotive news source Drive recently reached out to Peter Quintus, vice president of sales and marketing for BMW’s M division. According to Quintus, the dual-clutch (or double-clutch if you prefer) transmission variety only has a few years left as a part of BMW vehicles.
Dual-clutch transmissions have historically been valued for their light weight and higher shift speeds. Nevertheless, Quintus says that recent advances made to traditional automatic transmissions have virtually closed the gap.
“We are now seeing automatic transmissions with nine and even 10 speeds, so there’s a lot of technology in modern automatics,” Quintus stated. “Now, a lot of that shift-time advantage has disappeared as automatics get better and smarter.”
Meanwhile, Quintus gave a equally dismal outlook for the future of BMW vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. He credited their downfall to the increasing amount of horsepower produced by modern BMW performance vehicles.
According to Quintus, 450 horsepower is the limit of what European manual gearboxes can handle without suffering any lasting consequences. Meanwhile, many American performance vehicles can produce much more than 450 horsepower while still coming equipped with American manual gearboxes.
Nevertheless, BMW refuses to utilize the manual transmissions found in many American cars due to their weight and shifting capabilities. “We looked at US gearboxes,” Quintus said. “We found they were heavy and the shift quality was awful.”
As it currently stands, it would seem that manually shifting gears will soon become an impossibility for BMW drivers.
News Source: Drive
The News Wheel is a digital auto magazine providing readers with a fresh perspective on the latest car news. We’re located in the heart of America (Dayton, Ohio) and our goal is to deliver an entertaining and informative perspective on what’s trending in the automotive world. See more articles from The News Wheel.


text:
Brazilian transgender model Valentina Sampaio has become clothing chain Victoria Secret’s first transgender model.
After Sampaio announced the news on Instagram, ET Online reported that it confirmed the move with Victoria’s Secret:
“The 22-year-old model and actress is their first transgender model. She’s one of many models and campus reps featured in the current VS PINK back-to-campus campaign, the source says.
“Additionally, Sampaio's agent, Erio Zanon, confirms to ET that she will be featured in the new Pink campaign that's set to be released in mid-August.”
“The confirmation comes after Sampaio took to Instagram last week to share a pic of herself at a Victoria's Secret shoot. ‘Backstage click,’ she wrote alongside the photo of herself in a white robe, even tagging the lingerie company.”
In March of 2017, Sampaio became the first transgender model to appear on a cover of Vogue magazine (Vogue Paris).


text:
Bondholder Kenneth Dart, after staying quiet, says he wants full payment—just like Paul Singer
Does SodaStream's turn toward branding itself as a sparkling water vendor—and its dismal financial performance—suggest that it's seeking a different future?
A federal judge in New York refuses to exterminate an asbestos union's inflatable rat, saying "Scabby the Rat" is covered by the First Amendment
In October, more than two customers joined T-Mobile from a competitor for every customer that left it
Dominique Strauss-Kahn acquired a 20 percent stake in a Luxembourg finance firm last year, but quit his chairmanship on Oct. 20. His ex-partner Thierry Leyne died on Oct. 23
Ministry of Supply’s Aviator jacket combines the structure of a tailored garment with the functionality of a windbreaker
Marvel isn't keeping quiet about its movie plans now that DC has publicized its long slate of superhero vehicles
The schools are spending $52,000 to mail 100,000 apology letters to Montana voters
This year's must-have Silicon Valley office accessory: a $199 bear costume
Nokia (NOK) veteran Vanjoki is the most visible advocate for the Finnish handset maker's transition from hardware manufacturer to provider of mobile Internet services. As executive vice-president, markets, Vanjoki is responsible for convincing consumers as well as business partners that Nokia's devices are useful for much more than talking and occasionally snapping a photo. The "multimedia computers," as Vanjoki likes to call Nokia smartphones, are becoming gateways to the Internet and services such as social networking, music downloads or navigation. Nokia will need all the determination that the hard-driving Vanjoki, who hunts bear in his spare time, can muster. It's directly taking on Apple, Google, and Research in Motion.


text:
Despite being the first virtual show in its history, The Game Awards 2020 hit new records with viewership stats from host Geoff Keighley.
Following its reveal at The Game Awards, it's been revealed that Vin Diesel will play a larger role in the development of Ark 2.
Sephiroth has found his place in the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate character mural and if you know him well, it's no surprise where.
The Last of Us Part II won the top prize of Game of the Year, and you can find the rest of the winners from The Game Awards 2020 right here.
Capcom revealed a new story and gameplay trailer for Monster Hunter Rise at The Game Awards 2020, introducing The Rampage and new monsters.
Hazelight Studios premiered the first gameplay footage from It Takes Two at The Game Awards 2020, and it looks funny.
Check out the upcoming content to Call of Duty Black Ops Cold War on December 16 in the gameplay trailer of Season One.
Disco Elysium: The Final Cut will bring the detective RPG to consoles and PC with new quests, full voice acting, and more new features.
Night City and Britain get closer as Quadra joins Forza Horizon 4 from CDPR's recently launched Cyberpunk 2077.
Former Halo developers shared a new trailer from Scavengers, their new online free-to-play project, tonight at The Game Awards 2020.
Microsoft's The Initiative officially revealed its very first project with a cinematic trailer and it's Perfect Dark.
The Game Awards 2020 included some brand new battle gameplay for the upcoming PC, PS4, Xbox One remaster of NieR Replicant by Toylogic.
The Game Awards officially revealed that the Final Fantasy villain will be heading to Super Smash Bros. Ultimate as the next DLC fighter.
The Game Awards are officially kicking off tonight, and here's all you need to watch the ceremony unfold for this year's big show.
The "Future Class" of The Game Awards has been announced, recognizing 50 members of the "bright, bold and inclusive future of video games."
With this year's The Game Awards about to kick-off tonight, let us know your predictions for what might be revealed at this year's show.
There's no room for movie stars at The Game Awards 2020 while the veterans of the video game industry have been almost forgotten.
The staff of DualShockers will be streaming The Game Awards with our live reactions, and you're invited to join in and watch with us.
After Joker's reveal in 2018, it looks like Nintendo is preparing to reveal a new Smash Bros. fighter at tonight's The Game Awards 2020.
Focus Home Interactive teases announcements for The Game Awards 2020.


text:
Tim White tried to keep the Hiawatha Thriftway open in ways that might bring customers through the door. He welcomed community growers to have a farmers market in the parking lot. He stocked his store’s fresh section with locally-grown produce.
But, still, last year, White had to close its doors. Business was not enough to keep the store running.
“In my particular situation, the Hiawatha population is decreasing,” White says. “It also has a Walmart in the same town and it has pushed local owned businesses out.”
Another factor for customers could be the 6.5 percent food sales tax, added to the county and local sales tax that could end up being nearly 10 percent or more in sales tax for shopping outings.
“One of the biggest barriers to access to healthy food in Kansas is cost,” says Ashley Jones-Wisner, State Policy Director for KC Healthy Kids. “When state and local taxes are added to their bill, some Kansans are paying 11 percent sales tax on their groceries. Food is not a luxury item and should not be taxed as such. Lowering the sales tax on food would put money back in the pockets of Kansas consumers.”
About 75 miles north of Topeka, Hiawatha is just 17 miles from the Nebraska border. Customers could go across the state line and save the tax on groceries.
“That did have some impact on us,” White says.
But many people in rural, central Kansas do not have the same options as Hiawatha Thriftyway customers who could go across the state line. Studies show that many rural communities find themselves in a food desert with limited options for groceries. That makes the food sales tax even more of a hinderance to someone on a limited budget – they don’t have options to shop for cheaper food.
Eliminating the food tax is an especially good idea for those in central Kansas, who might not have the luxury of crossing borders, White says. In his case, residents in Hiawatha who are “close to the border has an impact” on where they shop.
White might have sold his store but he has stayed in the independent grocery business. He now manages Jim’s Horton Thrift way in Horton, Kan., the last locally owned grocery store in Brown County.
By Traci Angel
What Does Your Legislator Think?
KC Healthy Kids surveyed every candidate running for the 165 seats in the Kansas Legislature to find out what they think about the Kansas grocery tax and other healthy eating and active living policy issues. See Their Responses (11×17 PDF)
Photo: KHI News Service


text:
Annual New Bern Home & Garden Show to give preview of spring
March 4, 2015 - garden totes
Nothing says forget a ice, sleet and cold sleet like a glance into a open and summer renovation of convenience living.
The New Bern Home Garden Show will yield that discernment with some-more than 100 vendors Mar 14 and 15 during a New Bern Riverfront Convention Center.
“For many, a New Bern Home Garden Show is a central start of spring,” pronounced eventuality organizer Judy Avery of a Sun Journal.
Show times are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mar 14 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mar 15.
The uncover is a prolongation of ENC Shows, sponsored by Moen, Bath Fitter and a Sun Journal.
It is a giveaway event, with demonstrations, products, services and esteem drawings, along with giveaway receptacle bags both days while reserve last.
“This is a best approach to see what is new on a marketplace for scarcely each area of your home and garden,” Avery said. “The Home Garden Show provides a ideal event to pronounce with a professionals and get your questions answered.”
The uncover has been going on for some-more than 30 years.
“The uncover has continued to grow over a years,” Avery said. “In a early years, before a gathering center, we hold a uncover in whatever empty building was accessible in New Bern.”
Those venues enclosed a aged JCPenney building before it was ripped down, inside a initial building of a Kress Building before it was renovated, in a aged Helig Levine building downtown and also in a aged Roses store on Neuse Boulevard.
“We’ve modernized from masking fasten on a building to symbol a counter space to siren and furnish dividers,” Avery said.
She pronounced a uncover is a bonus for internal residents and a good kick-start for vendors.
“Some of a participating businesses tell us that they’ll book as most as a third of their annual business from a show,” Avery said. “Others tell us that people will come into their store years after and remember vocalization with them during a show.”
For some-more information, revisit ENC Shows on Facebook.
Charlie Hall can be reached during 252-635-5667 or 252-259-7585, firstname.lastname@example.org, on Twitter @Charlie.HallNBSJ


text:
M&S has swapped plastic for recyclable paper packaging across its range of sandwiches and toasties available in all of its UK cafes.
The move is set to save the retailer over 4 million units of plastic, supporting M&S’ Plan A target to remove 1 billion units of plastic packaging by 2027, on its roadmap to net zero by 2040.
M&S Food head of sustainability Lucinda Langton commented: “With a brand-new menu for 2024, came an opportunity to innovate in our packaging – removing and reducing unnecessary plastic, to lower our impact on the planet.”
The sandwiches will be available in easy to recycle FSC approved cardboard or paper packaging which uses 79% less plastic – but doesn’t compromise quality or customer selection.
The small window allows customers to see the product inside but is accepted by recyclers to be recycled with paper in the paper waste stream.
Subscribe to Sustainability Beat for free
“We know plastic is an issue our customers care deeply about and this small change to packaging in our Café’s – with no compromise on quality or taste – will make a big impact on our Plan A roadmap to net zero,” Langton added.
Elsewhere the retailer expanded its refill scheme to 25 stores across the UK, a move which is expected to remove an estimated 150,000 pieces of plastic.
At the time, Langton said the scheme so far has “proven hugely popular”.
“There is high demand for refillable and great value options – so we’re delighted to be able to introduce this into even more of our stores across the UK this month.”


text:
NEW DELHI: Orbic, a US-based smartphone maker has partnered with India’s Dixon Technologies to manufacture smartphones for Orbic at the latter’s Noida facility.
Under the partnership, Dixon will manufacture a 5G millimeter-wave (mmWave) compatible smartphone — Orbic Myra 5G UW smartphone — and export it to the US.
The Orbic Myra 5G UW will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G 5G chipset and will be the first 5G mmWave device to be produced in India for export to the US.
"This Partnership with Dixon further expands Orbic's presence in India with software development for its smartphones being done in Bangalore. Qualcomm Technologies has been critical to the development and expansion of 5G and has also been invaluable in enabling us on this journey,” said Mike Narula, CEO of Orbic North America.
"We are extremely excited to partner with Orbic for the manufacturing of mobile phones. Orbic has established a strong and trusted partnership with its growing global customer base,” added Sunil Vachani- Executive Chairman of Dixon Technologies.
“This is a golden phase for India's manufacturing industry considering it is being supported with the new Industrial friendly policies and incentives which are being rolled out by Government of India and we are proud that Dixon is a part of making India 'Atmanirbhar' or 'Self-reliant',” Vachani said.
To recall, Dixon is one among 14 local and global companies that has received approval from the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for IT hardware manufacturing.
The company has also proposed to file necessary applications with Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) or any other nodal agency to avail benefits under the PLI Scheme of Government of India.
Moreover, it has previously inked an agreement with Bharti Enterprises Limited to form a joint venture (JV) for manufacturing telecom and networking products such as modems, routers, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, among others.
The two companies had said they will also invest Rs 200 crore to Rs 250 crore to commence telecom equipment manufacturing under the PLI scheme for telecom.
Coming back to the 5G smartphone, it comes with a 6.78-inch FullHD screen, 6GB RAM, and 64GB storage (expandable).
It features the Snapdragon X52 5G Modem-RF system that will allow US customers to access Verizon’s nationwide 5G network.
It packs a triple-rear camera set up with a 48MP main sensor along with an 8MP ultra-wide sensor with a 118-degree field of capture, There's also a 2MP macro sensor for close-up shots.
At the front, it features a 16MP camera for selfies.
The Orbic Myra 5G UW is powered by a 5000 mAh battery and 18-watt charger with Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 technology.
"Right now is the investment phase. Monetization will come from our side...To me, right now, we have to create a base and right now we are only focused on the rollout of the 5G network. And do keep in mind that there's already offload happening from the 4G network to 5G, which will also improve the 4G quality," said Mittal.


text:
Tester and DeLauro keep pressure on USDA to suspend Brazilian beef exports
By Dan Flynn, Food Safety News by Marler Clark
November 20, 2021
Two powerful Democrats, one from the House and the other from the Senate, want to suspend Brazil beef exports to the USA and are willing to make it happen with legislation.
And while it seems long ago, USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) last targeted on-site equivalence verification audit of Brazil from Jan. 13 through Jan. 24, 2020. The final audit report, certifying that Brazil’s beef is as safe as America’s, became public on Feb. 20, 2020.
However, support for suspending Brazilian beef exports led by American beef producers is on the rise.
Sen. Jon Tester, D-MT, and Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-CT, are supporting the suspension with legislation.
Tester, the only farmer in the U.S. Senate, wants a study of safety risks involving Brazilian beef following what he calls “repeated reporting issues” involving delayed reporting of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), or Mad Cow Disease, in Brazilian beef.
Tester wants a suspension on Brazilian beef imports to the United States “until experts can conduct a systematic review of the commodity’s safety.”
“Montanans demand the highest level of safety and certainty in their beef, and Brazilian imports aren’t making the cut,” said Tester...
more, including links


text:
It was one of the popular e-book apps on the Android app store
Moon+ e-Book reader application has been removed from the Google Play store. The app was one of the popular e-book apps on Android app store as it has features like customisable user interface, support for a wide range of eBook file formats, and an option to sync bookmarks and the last read position across devices using cloud storage service like Dropbox.
According to its developers, Google has removed it from the store for using the Open Publication Distribution System or OPDS which could be potentially utilised for piracy or download of pirated E-Books using the integrated browser. But the Open Publication Distribution System protocol is primarily a format for cataloging eBooks, and it's used by eBook catalogs offering free or public domain works.
"The reader can access OPDS web sites just like that a web browser can access html web sites with standard protocol, if they think any book site has problem, they should contact the web server provider to stop the services, a web browser can't know if a web site is illegal," said the developer of Moon+.
The removal of the application sounds a bit harsh for the independent developer who has spent 100's of hours shaping the application to perfection. Also the reason given by the developer is also correct that if you have to stop piracy you have to kill the source and not the method.
As of now the application has been removed from the Google Play store and is only available through the developer's website (http://www.moondownload.com/).
Cyanogen update is rolled out via OTA and is based on Android 5.1.1 Lollipop OS.
As per the latest tweet from Evan Blass, Sony is set to launch three phones, namely the Xperia Z5, Z5 Compact and Z5 Premium.
Despite assurances, Huawei has so far failed to update its smartphones to the latest Android version
SF1, a 4G/ LTE variant is priced at $199 (approx Rs 13,144), and the SJ1.5, a 3G variant is priced at $129 (approx Rs 8,517) and will be available to the consumers in October.
A new Lenovo smartphone, Vibe P1, with a huge 5000 mAh battery has been spotted online.
Wileyfox has unveiled two CyanogenOS powered smartphones Swift and Storm in London.
The tours and activities will range from volcano mountain bike trails in Indonesia to desert themed rides in Dubai to themed tours and day trips across Asia, Middle East and Africa.
Both the Nokia 222 and Nokia 222 Dual SIM phones come with same specs except that the latter supports dual-SIM connectivity.
This smartphone comes with whooping 256 GB of internal storage which is further expandable to up to128 GB via a micro SD card.
The new update brings a new set of emojis for the Android WhatsApp app including a new Spock-inspired vulcan salute and a middle finger gesture.


text:
APW/Bakers Pride/Star Holdings Appoints Western Regional VP
Valerie Hanson has joined the APW/Bakers Pride/Star Holdings Group as western regional vice president of sales; she’ll report to Group Vice President Dave Hinton.
In her new role, Hanson’s tasked with accelerating market growth for each of the group’s brands within her territory. The group includes APW, Bakers Pride, Holman, Lang, Star, Toastmaster, Wells and Wells Ventless.
Hanson comes from within the commercial foodservice equipment industry, having previously served as national accounts and regional sales manager at Beverage-Air, an Ali Group North America brand. She began her industry run in 2014 as a business development specialist with Avanti Restaurant Solutions.


text:
The QWERTY-fied HTC Vision has not been officially announced by the company yet but the phone has just been spotted selling on a Croatian website.
The HTC Vision will go on Eclair (a.k.a. Android OS v2.1), a zippy 1GHz CPU and 1.2GB of memory on board. As for the screen, it is said to measure 3.7 inches.
Official release date and price is not fixed yet,the unit on the images above is selling for 3800 Croatian kune (or about 660 US dollars).


text:
By the year 2018, the market for wearable technology is set to be worth an estimated $60 billion. And that’s a conservative estimate. What’s equally […]
We have sent a confirmation to the email address provided.
“The best computer is the one you have with you when you want something” Jacob Neilsen. 90% of multiple device owners move between screens to […]
The ongoing proliferation of mobile technology is considered to be the greatest megatrend of all time. With the forthcoming advent of wearable technology and the […]
If you’re a product manager, it’s not always easy researching and designing the next big thing for your company. There are numerous factors you have […]


text:
French PS4 sale leads to rowdy crowds being pepper sprayed by police
A new PS4 for just over $100!By Rob Thubron
WTF?! What would you endure to get a PlayStation 4 for just $107? Being almost crushed? Pepper sprayed by police? That's what happened to those who turned up at a store outside of Paris, which was offering the console at around a third of its usual price.
As part of its opening celebrations, the Lidl store in Orgeval, around 28 miles northeast of Paris, put the 500GB variants of the PS4 on sale for 95 Euros (around $107)---several hundred dollars less than its usual price.
RT reports that a member of staff revealed the deal early on social media, where it went viral. The temptation of grabbing a PS4 for a bargain price brought huge crowds, who certainly weren't following social distancing rules---France's Covid-19 guidelines state that no more than 10 people may gather in any one place at present.
Ça gaze ! Et ça pique le nez / les yeux. Donc tout ça pour un #PS4 ! @lidlfrance Orgeval pic.twitter.com/lYH88ygrK8--- Olivier Dauvers (@Dauvers70) June 17, 2020
Police were brought in, and as you can see in the video from Commerce writer Olivier Dauvers, it appears they used pepper spray on the crowds. Dauvers said the liquid "stings the eyes and nose." In another Twitter video (below) from user @rayanhmbrk1, some of the crowd, including police officers, are seen moving away while holding their faces.
#lidl les gendarmes qui s'auto GAZ ????? pic.twitter.com/O3S89LKrpd--- Rayan?? (@rayanhmbrk1) June 17, 2020
Lidl France said the discount was part of an ongoing destocking operation, and similar offers at other stores hadn't led to near riots/police intervention/pepper spraying. The company tweeted: "Today, we believe that the security conditions are not met to keep the supermarket open. The sale of the PS4 is also permanently cancelled."
With the PlayStation 5 arriving in a few months, sales of current-gen consoles have fallen in recent times, leading to some retailers selling them off at huge discounts. Lidl is famed for offering certain goods at low prices, but don't expect to see any more cheap PS4s from the company.
Main image credit: Olivier Dauvers


text:
Las Vegas – Chinese technology company Changhong’s latest H2 smartphone can scan items to determine their molecular properties.
Consumer Physics has been touting its SCiO technology since 2014, but the molecular scanner has thus far been a stand-alone device that people can carry with them. The partnership with Changhong brings the same technology to a smartphone, eliminating the need to carry an extra device when a person wants to scan an item.
The phone can scan food to determine its molecular content, from water level to how many carbohydrates it contains. Other apps enable users to verify pills to ensure they are not counterfeit and to analyse body fat composition.
‘Consumers usually just consume what they are given, but we wanted to provide people with the ability to gain more information about their physical world,’ Dr Damian Goldring, co-founder and chief technology officer at Consumer Physics, told LS:N Global.


text:
CARACAS — When it comes to cars, Venezuelans hold age in high esteem.
Take, for example, Antonio Gil, a taxi driver from Caracas. In 1990, Gil bought a Chevrolet Monza for $750. More than a decade later he resold it for $1,850. Now, Gil has a Nissan Sentra that he bought two years ago for $17,000. When he decides to sell this car, he believes it could fetch between $23,000 and $28,000.
Like many Venezuelans, Gil has benefited from an extraordinary situation: Cars in this nation appreciate in value as they age. With gas prices low — here in Venezuela, it costs just $1.50 to fill a tank with gas — it seems that this South American petro-state would be a paradise for car lovers.
But for Venezuelans wishing to buy a new car, circumstances are far from ideal. At a Toyota showroom in the Caracas neighborhood of Los Palos Grandes, waiting lists for some new cars run up to two years, a dealer said. New cars are so scarce that buyers don’t even get to choose their preferred brand or color.
This undersupply is partly due to legislation — which went into effect in early 2008 — that set quotas on car imports in order to boost the national car manufacturing industry, said Antonio Martinez, president of the Venezuelan Automotive Chamber (CAVENEZ). While Venezuela doesn't have car brands of its own, it is home to several factories that assemble cars for international brands such as Ford, General Motors, Toyota and Hyundai.
Martinez said that CAVENEZ supported the government’s bid to stimulate the national car manufacturing industry. But labor disputes and restrictions on imports of raw materials prompted a decrease in automobile production in the country: In 2008, production was down 12.4 percent over 2007.
With all the various restrictions and disputes, new car sales plummeted last year. Sales slumped from 449,549 vehicles in 2007 to 252,375 in 2008, a drop of 43.9 percent. Demand in Venezuela, meanwhile, is for 600,000 new cars a year.
Due to the shortage of new vehicles, used cars are in high demand. And because there's so much demand for a limited number of used vehicles, the prices go up.
“It doesn't make sense, but it's a reality of the Venezuelan economy and if there were normal conditions it would not occur,” Martinez said. “Cars deteriorate, but as there isn't a real situation of supply and demand, or where people can save, that creates a situation where you can buy a car today and sell it for 30 percent more tomorrow.”
The other factor contributing to this counterintuitive phenomenon is Venezuela’s high inflation rate, which ended the year at just under 31 percent, explained Robert Bottome, editor of Veneconomia, Venezuela’s leading business magazine.
“When there's inflation there's a tendency to buy physical assets — that's a fact,” Bottome said. “A car is a bit of a status symbol here, but it's also very practical.” Inflation is almost double the interest rates set by the Central Bank of Venezuela, which leaves little or no incentive to save, he added.
The situation is affecting individuals such as Manuel Cajide, who runs a used car business in Sabana Grande in central Caracas. He currently has just seven cars for sale in his lot next to one of the city’s main highways, and he bemoans the fact that individuals with the right connections are making healthy profits from selling their nearly brand-new cars. Websites such as tucarro.com are awash with cars barely off the production line that sell for up to 50 percent more than cars in official dealerships.
These individuals “have the contacts to obtain new cars,” Cajide said. “They buy them and sell them on and make good money. To me that doesn't seem ethical but neither is it illegal. It's supply and demand.”
Venezuela’s chronic shortage of available cars is likely to worsen, given the government's plans to further restrict the import of cars from abroad.
But there may be one benefit to the current state of affairs: Many Venezuelan cities are traffic-chocked, with rush hours that seem to last nearly all day. The recent crisis may at least prevent traffic from getting much worse. “If they can restrict imports for five years it might solve the traffic problem!” Bottome said.


text:
Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has set his sights on the race to modernise the fast-food industry.
The first international plant-based burger bar, Neat Burger has just opened its first shop near Regent Street in London and has two more London locations on the cards, a US launch next year, as well as 14 outlets planned across Europe over the next two years.
Neat Burger will make use of the Beyond Burger, the beetroot-based burger that “bleeds”, for which one of Hamilton’s co-investors, Tommaso Chiabra, was one of the original backers. The Beyond Burger leaves out the cholesterol and uses peas to provide the protein, beet for juiciness and coconut oil and potato starch for texture.
Himself a vegetarian, Hamilton says, “I’m very passionate about being kinder to our world and also really respect Neat Burger’s commitment to more ethical practices and supporting small businesses, so this is something I’m also really proud to support.”
Hamilton continues, “But it is also about the product. As someone who follows a plant-based diet, I believe we need a healthier high-street option that tastes amazing but also offers something exiting to those who want to be meat-free every now and again. Beyond Meat is an incredible partner, and I can’t wait to work with the team to expand Neat Burger internationally.”
No word on any expansion plans for Asia just yet, but in the meantime, there are a host of Hong Kong places that serve up the Beyond Burger.
For more hot F&B new like this, like Foodie on Facebook


text:
U.S. consumer sentiment dropped to a six-month low in June as Americans' view of the economy soured, a survey released on Friday showed.
The Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan's final reading on the overall index on consumer sentiment fell to 73.2 in June from 79.3 in May.
It was the lowest level since December and fell short of economists' expectations for the index to hold at the same level as June's preliminary reading of 74.1.
The deterioration in consumers' attitudes came mostly from households with incomes over $75,000; sentiment among lower-income households was little changed, the survey said.
"While the overall level of consumer sentiment is substantially above last summer's low - which would normally indicate a growth slowdown, not a downturn - the buying plans of upper-income households have also sharply declined," survey director Richard Curtin said in a statement.
"Since these households account for a large share of total spending, if the declines continue in the months ahead, it could have a substantial impact on total spending."
The overall measure of buying plans for durables and vehicles fell to 125 from 132.
News of economic developments heard by consumers was increasingly negative. When asked about their expectations for the unemployment rate, survey respondents were more likely to expect increases rather than declines.
Consumers were also more likely to report economic conditions had weakened recently, and less likely to expect them to improve in the coming year.
The survey's barometer of current economic conditions fell to 81.5 from 87.2, while the gauge of consumer expectations slid to 67.8 from 74.3. Both indexes were at their lowest levels since December.
The survey's one-year inflation expectation rose for the first time since March to 3.1 percent from 3.0 percent, while the survey's five-to-10-year inflation outlook climbed to 2.8 percent from 2.7 percent.


text:
The world's No. 1 and No. 3 art-auction houses held competing Hong Kong sales this weekend, and found strong interest for top lots as Chinese collectors continued to buy expensive paintings and antiques in Asia's largest art hub.
But though sales remained strong, some categories—such as contemporary Chinese art—remain below their highs of spring 2011, the peak of the art-market boom in China.
"The cowboys have left town," said François Curiel, president for Christie's in Asia, alluding to the speculative buyers who sent prices skyrocketing in the past. He believes they're no longer bidding.
The weekend marks the beginning of the final stretch to a subdued 2012 auction year in Hong Kong. Sales are down compared with the previous year's, hurt by China's slowing economy. But optimistic market watchers say that the strong bidding for certain major lots, especially those by 20th-century Chinese oil and ink painters, show that the market has matured and is focusing on the best items—while ignoring lesser works that once might have fetched high prices.
In the head-to-head matchup, Christie's, the world's largest auction house by sales, won out, selling 783 million Hong Kong dollars (US$101.6 million) worth of art and wine from Friday through Sunday at Hong Kong's convention center. Just a short walk away at the adjacent Grand Hyatt hotel, Poly Auction, the third-largest auction firm in the world, sold HK$518 million worth Saturday and Sunday.
The Christie's weekend sales offered wine, 20th-century Asian art and contemporary Asian art. Its sales of Chinese ink paintings and antiques, traditionally the most sought-after collectibles among Chinese collectors, will occur later in the week. Poly sold jewelry, modern and contemporary Chinese art, Chinese ink painting and Chinese antiques.
Bidders showed most interest in major 20th-century Chinese artists. Christie's set an auction record for Chu Teh-Chun, a Chinese-born abstract painter who spent most of his career in France. His "La forêt blanche II" sold for HK$60 million to an unnamed Asian buyer before a packed auction room on Saturday night, beating the pre-sale high estimate of HK$45 million. The large painting spans nearly four meters (390 centimeters, or 153.5 inches) and fuses traditional Chinese landscape with Western abstract aesthetics.
"We're doing very well," said Mr. Curiel. "The results show that there's a strong, but realistic market."
Poly Auction said the sale, its first outside of mainland China, was deliberately scheduled on the same weekend as Christie's. Some collectors could be seen running between the sites to bid on items at both auctions. Poly, which began in 2003, has grown to become China's biggest auction house. Its main Chinese rival, China Guardian, held its first Hong Kong event in October, on the same weekend as a Sotheby's sale.
Poly's top item sold was the ink painting "Two Tibetan Ladies With Dogs," by 20th-century master Zhang Daqian. It sold to an Asian collector for HK$42 million—more than four times the high presale estimate of HK$9.2 million.
"I'm very satisfied," said Alex Chang, managing director for Poly Auction in Hong Kong. "We had a lot of collectors come from China, but most of the big bidding came from collectors from Hong Kong, Taiwan and other parts of Asia."
The two salesrooms each held more than 150 bidders and spectators for the most popular lots. Both Christie's and Poly said that the timing of their sales may have brought out more buyers than usual.
"Poly brought out new buyers from China for us, who had heard of Christie's but had never been to our auction before," Mr. Curiel said.
Poly and Christie's were the largest but not the only art sales in Hong Kong this past weekend. Taiwanese-based auction house Ravenel held a sale on Sunday in the ballroom of the same hotel that hosted Poly's event. The company sold HK$104.5 million worth of modern and contemporary Asian art, led by "Lumière éternelle" by Chu Teh-Chun, which went for HK$18.6 million to an Asian buyer.
English auction house Bonhams concluded a three-day Hong Kong event on Saturday. An 18th-century jade " Xianglu Feng " brushpot that brought HK$8.1 million was the most expensive lot of the day, contributing to the three-day total of HK$240 million worth of collectibles.
While the demand for art among Chinese collectors has weakened from the record sales volumes of spring 2011 in Hong Kong and China, market watchers say that the market is maturing—focusing on top lots while ignoring lesser works. As well, Chinese art insiders say that they expect buying to pick up now that the China's political situation has been sorted, with the once-a-decade Communist party leadership transition earlier this month.
"Not that it's over, we should see a recovery soon," said Cheng William Qian, managing director at Qianart, attending the Poly Auction sale on Sunday.
Still, many lots were left unsold. Christie's sale of Asian Contemporary art sold 78% of the items on the block. Poly sold just 64% of the fine Chinese paintings on offer.
"We will analyze the market and see what the buyers want," said Jiang Yingchun, general manager of Poly Culture Group Co., the parent company of Poly Auction. "We still see the sale as a good success."


text:
As the demand for cannabis legalization increases worldwide, Canada has the potential to become the world leader in cannabis exports. As the first G7 country to legalize the consumption and procurement of recreational cannabis, Canada has the advantage to build relationships overseas.
Canadian licensed producers with proper certifications and permits can export cannabis for medical and clinical research purposes, leading some larger producers to turn to the medical cannabis market, as recreational sales forecasting has not reached the goals anticipated for the industry.
In Canada, the recreational sector has an oversupply of cannabis. Companies are carrying it on their books and inventory, selling it at bottom low prices or destroying it. It is estimated that 425,325 kgs of unpackaged cannabis was destroyed by LPs in 2021. As for the product that is packaged, the amount sitting in corporate inventories far exceeds the amount sold. Proposed solutions for oversupply issues are to funnel funds from the cannabis excise tax back into the industry to help producers export their products rather than destroy them.
Canadian LPs can export cannabis for medical and clinical research purposes.
Tilray, based in Nanaimo, Canada, is a global pioneer in the research, cultivation, production, and distribution of cannabis and cannabinoids, currently serving tens of thousands of patients and consumers in 17 countries spanning five continents. They recently reported being the first cannabis company to be approved to ship medical cannabis into Spain. Through continued work with regulators around the world, Tilray is grateful to partner and establish themselves as pharmaceutical leaders through Worldpharma Biotech on the distribution of Tilray medical cannabis.
Cronos Group, headquartered in Toronto, Canada, cultivates and sells medicinal and recreational cannabis through its medicinal brand, Peace Naturals, and its two recreational brands, Cove and Spinach. Although it primarily operates in Canada, Cronos exports medical cannabis to Poland and Germany.
Aphria, now operating as Tilray has received its first two essential European quality standard certifications, which the Canadian medical cannabis producer says will allow it to export finished dried flower and oil in bulk to European Union countries with established medical marijuana regimes. The company earned a certificate of EU-Good Manufacturing Practice compliance for its facility located in Leamington, Ontario.
MedReleaf’s Aurora Cannabis reported significant quarterly and annual losses, but the Alberta-based marijuana producer said it’s on track to report a profit next year on the back of strong growth in the European medical market.
Aurora Cannabis also finalized the largest acquisition in cannabis industry history, establishing themselves as global medical cannabis leaders through the purchase of CanniMed Therapeutics Inc., that had recently created a lucrative agreement in Australia. CanniMed shipped commercial cannabis oil to Australia through the sale and delivery of 3,600 ml of CanniMed Oils to Health House International. Upon completion of the first shipment, the company received three additional import permits from Health House, issued by the Australian Department of Health.
Meanwhile, Canopy Growth is ceasing any more cannabis cultivation in Africa, Canada, Colombia and the United States in a bid to improve efficiencies in its global operations.
The downsizing does not affect Europe, with a partnership agreement in Spain with pharma company Alcaliber S.A., with a subsidiary in Germany that imports medical cannabis, Spectrum Therapeutics GmbH, and has a partnership with Spectrum Cannabis Denmark, a medical cannabis grower.
In short, Canadian LPs could stand to take advantage of international demand for cannabis legalization, readjusting their focus to the medical sector. Considering recreational sales forecasting continues to fall short, LPs could profit from a pivot from the recreational cannabis market, leveraging relationships overseas. This in turn could eradicate the losses caused by oversupply and funnel funds back into the industry fostering Canada to be a world leader in cannabis exports.


text:
UFCW members speak out against the unsafe working conditions pharmacy workers face.
UFCW stands together with retail pharmacists and technicians to improve the working conditions
in pharmacies. On October 2, 2017, UFCW Local 770 members shared their testimony during a CA State hearing about the numerous health and safety issues the pharmacy workers face.
Over the last few years, retail pharmacists have taken additional roles aside from dispensing medications but do not have adequate support to meet health regulations and ensure patient safety. Retail pharmacists are now expected to provide health care services including administering immunizations, prescribing birth control, and managing administrative duties. While these new roles were intended to expand health care access to underserved communities, pharmacists are not provided with the adequate support they need. Often pharmacists are working longer shifts but have little to no support staff leaving them alone to attend to both patients and administrative duties. These working conditions are unacceptable and risk patients’ and pharmacists’ health and safety.


text:
Gionee India today launched their new flagship device, Elife S7 which keeps up the tradition of thin mobiles with 5.5 mm. What is interesting to note is that Gionee is now aiming to get all their mobile phones, 4G enabled, and this is the start. The phone runs latest version of Android aka Lollipop.
When it comes to the specification, the phone sports a 5.2 inch Super Amoled display, 1080 x 1920 pixels, 424 pixels per inch (PPI) which is outstanding in my opinion. When it comes to build and design, its a U-shaped skeleton on an aviation level alloy to ensure a sturdy yet delivers beautiful design.
However the phone is powered by Octa-core Cortex-A53 clocked at 1.7 GHz with Mali processor which we will have to look into for its performance. The phone has 1 GB of RAM, 16 GB of internal storage, and packs in a non-user replaceable 2750 mAh battery. It comes with most of the required sensors like accelerometer, gyro, proximity and compass.
To make sure your pictures aren’t disappointing the rear camera is 13MP autofocus, with LED Flash, while the selifie camera is 8 MP. The phone can record video in FULL HD. Gionee is claiming to have improved their camera algorithm which we will soon test. All those who hated the protruded camera, this time, the camera stays inside.
The phone is priced at priced at Rs. 24,999 and comes in White, Black & Blue colors. The phone will go on sale from mid-April in India.


text:
Based on the company’s latest numbers, less than 0.1 per cent of all Android devices are running the latest version called Lollipop.
Google's latest update for its Android Wear software features one very useful upgrade: The option to listen to music from your smartwatch, no phone required.
This Android tablet has got an 11-inch screen, magnetically-attaching keyboard, kickstand coming out the back...wait, that seems familiar.
Flipkart on Monday launched an app compatible with the Android wearable technology to support viewing of the e-commerce website's wishlists on the wearable gear.
Rubin’s departure is part of a series of recent executive moves that seem to give Page more room to focus on the company’s longer-term bets.
There’s no shortage of great Android phones on market. Even so, there are some that stand above others, either for specs or ease of use. Check out 5 of best.
Uber's Android app may be sending your private data back to the company, reports Cult of Mac. The data transfer was reportedly discovered by Joe Giron, who runs a cybersecurity firm.
“In a line up to the ongoing digital revolution in the country, Videocon is determined to introduce cost-effective consumer-focused devices,” Pereira said.
Toshiba has a global network of over 590 consolidated companies employing over 200,000 people. It has annual sales of over $ 63 billion.
The 7.9-inch N1 tablet will first be available in China in the first quarter of 2015 with an approximate price tag of $250, before being introduced to other markets.


text:
Scientific study gave the result that resveratrol, which is present in red wine, has positive effects on health and longevity of animals. After a long investigation period, scientists managed to create a similar compound in capsules.
According to a team of U.S. researchers, women who drink red wine are less likely to raise weight than abstemious women.
Although wine has calories, according to these scientists they replace those in other foods which are not consumed, since wine would partially satisfy the appetite.
The research, published in Archives of Internal Medicine followed over 19,000 women for 13 years. At the time of starting the study, all were 39 years or older and normal weight. The participants reported how many alcoholic drinks consumed per day, and during the 13-year study, all of them gained weight progressively.
The study, conducted at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, analyzed the consumption of 4 alcoholic beverages: red wine, white wine, beer and liquor.Read more
This is the time for great meals, and 2 new studies conclude that the best drink to pair them is wine, not only to improve digestion, but also to avoid having to make more holes on your belt.
The first study comes from the University of Navarra, and is part of the SUN project (Monitoring of the University of Navarra), which intends to follow the habits of thousands of people to find healthy norms of behavior.
They found that drinkers of beer and spirits tend to gain weight, gaining an average of 120 grams each year, while wine drinkers showed no weight gain. "There was no apparent association between wine consumption and weight change per year, or the risk of developing obesity," wrote the authors of the study, scheduled for publication in a forthcoming issue of the medical journal "Nutrition."


text:
Filed under: Beckett Media, NHL, Panini | Tags: 2010-11 Score Hockey, Hockey, NHL, Panini, Panini America, Score, Score Hockey
By Chris Olds | Editor
The first of the new Score hockey sets produced by Panini America will arrive in little over a week with something that just might make you remember the hockey cards from another day.
No, it’s not some uber-vintage inclusion or card set styled after something from several decades ago.
Instead, they are 20th anniversary buyback autographs — as in 1990-91 Score, the arrival of the line to the NHL. As in the rookie year of Eric Lindros, Martin Brodeur and even guys like Rob Blake and Keith Primeau.
Those memorable reddish-orange white and purple-bordered cards will once again be coming out of packs like they did out of those odd plastic wrappers years ago — a year when Score and Upper Deck both entered the hockey card arena, bringing along with them countless collectors (myself included) who had dabbled in others sports but maybe didn’t follow the game all that closely.
Even though they’re not items from many a decades’ past, they are still reflective of how much trading cards have changed since that time. Just think about it, the certified autograph barely existed then — and the game-used memorabilia card was still several years from reality.
According to Panini America officials, the buybacks will be noted as being from the buyback program as well as numbered.
“Every buyback we issue has a mark on it,” said Panini America’s Scott Prusha, “and they are numbered.”
For collectors like myself, who may not dabble in hockey as heavily as they did back in 1990, these cards will be an instant throwback to the not-so-distant past — something that just might make me want to rip into a pack or two … or three, or …
This year’s version of Score arrives on Oct. 20 packing seven cards per pack, 36 packs per box and 20 boxes per case with the almost-throwback price of 99 cents a pack. Collectors will find one autographed per case — so they aren’t going to be easy — but there will be plenty of inserts and base cards to be found (500 standard cards and 50 rookies in the base set alone).
Chris Olds is the editor of Beckett Baseball. Have a comment, question or idea? Send an e-mail to him at email@example.com. Follow him on Twitter by clicking here.
1 Comment so far
Leave a comment


text:
List of dating service scams datingprogramma tv
has more than 125 million players worldwide, and that tremendous pull extends to hackers and scammers too.Players and parents should pay attention as Fortnite creator Epic Games is warning gamers about the most common Fornite scam involving "free V-bucks." Scammers offer free or discounted v-bucks, the in-game currency, to help players elevate their game.This new smartphone scam uses phishing emails to send Apple users to a fake Apple website.i Phone users receive a pop-up image of a system dialog box that tells users their phone has been "locked for illegal activity." When users click on the link, scammers enroll them into a fraudulent "mobile device management service" that allows scammers to send malware apps to i Phones.
If you receive such an email and recently placed an order, go to to check your order status.
This car scam starts with a criminal posting an online advertisement with a low price to get the attention of a buyer, including photos of the vehicle and contact information.
When a buyer reaches out, the "seller" sends more photos and what appears as a logical reason why the price is discounted and indicates a need to sell.
The criminal then instructs you to purchase prepaid gift cards in the amount of the sale and share the prepaid codes.
You're usually told you'll receive the vehicle in a couple of days, but victims never hear from the scammers again.That's an increase from 2017, which had a reported 45,401 scams.


text:
SingTel, Southeast Asia's largest phone firm, reported a 3.3 percent rise in quarterly profit, broadly in line with expectations, and kept its full-year forecast as its key emerging markets
businesses continued to grow.
However, its Optus unit, Australia's second-largest mobile operator, reported a 5.6 percent decline in underlying net profit to A$123 million (US$114 million) despite a 3.7 percent increase in operating revenue to A$1.93 billion.
Singapore Telecommunications Chief Executive Chua Sock Koong has previously said she expects higher sales from a surge in mobile phone and broadband subscriptions, and a strong performance in Singapore, SingTel's home market.
Singtel raised its sales growth guidance in August to more than 5 percent as strong economic growth in Singapore boosted demand from corporate customers. Singapore had been viewed as a low-growth market.
State-controlled SingTel -- Singapore's largest listed company -- reported July-September attributable net profit of S$988 million ($683 million) compared with S$956 million last year and compared to an average net profit forecast of S$997 million from three analysts surveyed by Reuters.
SingTel posted underlying net profit, before goodwill and exceptionals, of S$914 million in the quarter, versus S$815 million a year ago.
Operating revenue in the quarter climbed 11 percent to S$3.7 billion, while operational EBITDA rose 3 percent to S$1.12 billion.
SingTel shares rose 18 percent in the July-Sept quarter, and have gained a third in value so far this year, just above a 30 percent rise in the benchmark Straits Times Index.
Facing a home market of just 4.7 million people, where mobile penetration has reached 100 percent, SingTel has spent S$18 billion in recent years buying stakes in operators in high-growth Asian nations, and in the bigger Australian market.
SingTel now derives about 75 percent of revenues and two-thirds of pre-tax earnings from operations outside Singapore.
It owns Australia's No 2 mobile operator Optus and major stakes in six emerging market operators, including India's Bharti Airtel, Globe Telecom in the Philippines, and Indonesia's Telkomsel.
Most of these investments have shown phenomenal growth in wireless subscribers in recent years. Bharti, India's top mobile services firm, last week beat forecasts with a 73 percent rise in quarterly profit, as its user base surged in the world's fastest growing mobile market.
Optus has been grappling with ebbing subscriber growth and regulatory changes in a saturated domestic market.
But Optus Mobile which holds a third of the Australian market, is SingTel's single-biggest revenue generator. It competes with Telstra Corp, Vodafone Group and Hutchison Telecommunications (Australia).


text:
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has become the latest entity to trial a blockchain shipping solution developed by IBM and Maersk, a press release confirmed Thursday, Oct. 25.
TradeLens, which creators unveiled in August this year after a 2017 pilot, aims to simplify logistics processes.
The first such border agency to investigate the platform, CBSA will now “determine what role the platform could play in its business processes,” the release explains.
“TradeLens could create a singular, trusted digital supply chain for all shipments entering Canada. The TradeLens pilot gives us an opportunity to not only find process efficiencies and gain analytical insights, but improve data providence, accuracy and targeting capabilities,” CBSA president John Ossowski commented, adding:
“The end result may be a faster and more reliable national supply chain, which could positively impact Canada’s economic output.”
The CBSA has also partnered with the Montreal Port Authority to use TradeLens for shipping and handling.
As Cointelegraph has reported, the further use of smart contracts on blockchain allows swaths of the distribution and trade process to become automated, cutting out middlemen and decreasing cost and margin for error.
After its official release, TradeLens client CEVA praised the tool, saying it constituted a “big step forward toward establishing a market standard for blockchain solutions.”
The U.S. has also recently confirmed it is planning to use blockchain in a similar border capacity.
Last week, the National Bank of Canada announced it was piloting a blockchain project to leverage smart contracts in order to replace current email-based procedures. More recently, Air Canada said it would participate in a blockchain-based travel distribution platform created by Swiss blockchain startups Winding Tree.


text:
While Brits are known for their queueing etiquette it’s no surprise that we lose literally hundreds of hours of our lives standing patiently in line. According to a 2017 report from Swiss Air, the total amount of time spent queuing in the UK is 333 million hours a year, equivalent to half an hour a month per person.
This is a problem that many entrepreneurs have tried to solve and make money from, including one of the most successful small cap companies listed in London, Accesso Technology. Previously known as Lo-Q, the company created and sold a device which enabled theme park visitors to electronically book their place in a queue for a ride, freeing up their time to do other things. Investors have done very well out of the business, with the shares rising by 11,300% over the past ten years.
Another company looking to cut help down on queueing times, and make money at the same time, is Zapaygo Investments. Zapaygo has built a core platform and smart phone application that makes ordering goods and services easier for consumers, who can pre-order and pay for goods before arriving at venues, or without having to leave their seats. The technology reduces queuing times whilst improving the efficiency of service and delivery for venue operators.
To date, the company has secured corporate deals with major industry partners including the NEC, Europe’s largest event and leisure destination, where the technology has been trialled. A BETA version is ready to go live in other high profile venues. All of these serve large visitor numbers where queueing is problematic for both venue and customer.
The on-demand mobile ordering and payment platform is embracing blockchain technology to create a new tokenised eco-system, which the company has branded, The RewardZ MarketPlace. Here consumers, venues and brands will be able to exchange, upcycle and trade tokens to unlock benefits, and value, creating a truly sustainable and scalable business model.
Zapaygo has recently launched an Initial Coin Offering (ICO) of its tokens on Crowd for Angels to fund the company’s growth. The company is looking to raise a soft cap of $2 million, with the “ZAP Tokens” available through Crowd for Angels at a discounted price of $0.000625.
The funds raised from the ICO will enable Zapaygo to create the exclusive tokenised RewardZ MarketPlace and finance the rapid expansion of the Zapaygo business, which is ready to launch into its chosen domestic and international markets. The minimum investment is $100 (£79) and can be paid via Debit Card, Crypto or Bank transfer.
For the full pitch visit https://crowdforangels.com/company/token/Zapaygo-Investments-Ltd-2002
RISK WARNING: Cryptocurrencies, tokens and other digital currencies are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Capital at risk.


text:
Domain values reportedly increased by at least 59 percent in 2007 for owners of LLL (three-letter) domains. This is true for many top generic domains, as well those whose sales remained private or failed to meet the $100,000 requirement for inclusion in the top 100 list.
According to the Daily Domainer, only 33 domains (31 percent) of the 105 highest-priced domains sold in 2007 actually have been developed or properly redirected. Of those 33 domains, three are affiliate sites, 10 are abandoned or claim to be under construction, four don't resolve, and 55 (52.58 percent) display pay-per-click ads.
The top nine domain sales in 2007, according to the Daily Domainer, include Porn.com, Computer.com, Seniors.com, Tandberg.com, Scores.com, Vista.com, Chinese.com, Guy.com and Topix.com.


text:
Asian Games' first beauty products released in Hangzhou
China's artistic swimmers are featured on a Maogeping poster in Hangzhou. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]
Maogeping Beauty, a sponsor of the Asian Games Hangzhou 2022, released the first themed beauty products in the history of the Asian Games on Aug 10.
Maogeping Beauty becomes the official sponsor and service provider of China's national artistic swimming team. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]
Maogeping Beauty signed an official sponsorship agreement with the Hangzhou Asian Games Organizing Committee in July 2021.
The Hangzhou-based cosmetics brand was also announced to be the official sponsor and service provider of China's national artistic swimming team during a ceremony attended by HAGOC and the Chinese Swimming Association.
"Artistic swimming combines sports and arts. A team's overall score includes the 'artistic impression', which involves swimmers' makeup," said Mao Geping, founder of the brand.
A poster shows Maogeping Beauty's themed products for the Asian Games Hangzhou 2022. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]


text:
Lamborghini, like many other automakers, has recently seen the effects of the most simple equation in car manufacturing: that making SUVs skyrockets sales, because people buzz toward them like bugs to lightbulbs. But, Lamborghini’s now having to remind itself, it doesn’t want sales to skyrocket too much.
With its new 650-horsepower, twin-turbocharged V8 Urus SUV maxing out sales so far in 2019, Automotive News Europe reports that Lamborghini CEO Stefano Domenicali said the carmaker expects to sell more than 8,000 vehicles this year. That’s creeping ever closer to the brink of Lamborghini’s comfort zone, since ultra-luxury automakers are all about exclusivity.
Here’s an excerpt from the Automotive News story, which published around the time Lamborghini’s record half-year sales were announced last week:
“We must not go on growing forever. We now have to consolidate these results and preserve exclusivity,” Domenicali said at an event on Tuesday for the inauguration of the new paint shop inside its Sant’Agata Bolognese plant in Italy.
The 2019 sales level is “the right dimension of our company with our current product portfolio,” Domenicali said.
Domenicali, Automotive News wrote, said an increase to 10,000 vehicles sold per year would be possible “only with the addition of a fourth model,” but that it would have to be discussed with shareholders first. While 10,000 doesn’t seem like a lot of vehicles sold, it is for a company like Lamborghini—McLaren, for example, sold just 3,340 vehicles in 2017 and 4,806 in 2018.
All of this talk came after Lamborghini announced last week that it had sold 4,553 vehicles through the first six months of the year, covering Jan. 1 through June 30. It sold a little more than half of that number, 2,327, through the first six months of 2018, before it began deliveries for the Urus SUV that’s made up nearly 60 percent of its model sales so far this year. The company’s even selling less of its other two supercars, the Huracan and Aventador, than it did in 2018, but said it still hit a “new half-year sales record” this year.
It seems almost counterintuitive to introduce a vehicle targeting a booming segment of the market and turn right around to say that sales can’t boom too much, but exclusivity is the brand at companies like Lamborghini. If sales climb too much and its badge becomes a regular sight on the streets, be it on the Urus or a more traditional supercar, it loses some of its mystique among passerby.
And that, of course, would be almost as bad as everyone finding out its cars are really Volkswagens or something. How horrifying.


text:
Owens Corning lowers guidance
Owens Corning has lowered its earnings expectations for 2012 based on a weak selling environment for its roofing and composites. Full-year adjusted earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) for the company are now expected to be in the range of $280 million to $310 million, with the primary uncertainty through the remainder of the year attributed to roofing volumes.
Weakness in the U.S. roofing shingle market, combined with a mid-September price increase, resulted in the company lowering its roofing revenue outlook for the full-year, now estimated to be approximately $2 billion.
In the second half of 2012, composites demand will be impacted by lower global industrial production, particularly in Europe, as well as by the weaker U.S. roofing market. In response, Owens Corning has initiated further production curtailments to bring inventories in line with previously discussed year-end targets.
The company maintains its earlier guidance of significantly narrowing losses for its insulation business in 2012. The effects of higher volumes as a result of an improving U.S. housing market, as well as continued operating leverage in the business, continue to support this outlook.
Owens Corning will announce its full third-quarter 2012 results on Oct. 24, 2012, prior to the opening of the market.
Ply Gem Windows to add 200 jobs
Ply Gem Windows will expand its facility in Rocky Mount, Va., adding 200 jobs and upgrading new extrusion tooling, equipment, products and information technology. The Cary, N.C.-based manufacturer of residential and light commercial window and patio doors expects to complete these capital investments at its Rocky Mount plant by the end of 2014.
New hires will include such jobs as unit assemblers, coordinators, value stream leaders, process owners, process engineers, technicians and IT support.
“We are focused on enhancing Ply Gem’s product offering and customer experience to support planned growth from the housing market recovery, as well as improved market share from new customers and products,” said Lynn Morstad, president, Ply Gem Windows.
The investment was made possible, in part, by grants from the Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission, Franklin County and the Town of Rocky Mount. The company also is receiving assistance from the Virginia Jobs Investment Program through the Virginia Department of Business Assistance.
The current manufacturing facility was established in 1939 and acquired by Ply Gem in 2004. Over the years, the plant has manufactured such products as storm windows, aluminum windows, and window and door frames.
ProBuild withdrawing from some Eastern markets
ProBuild Holdings, the nation’s largest pro dealer, has decided to close down some of its newly built facilities in the Pittsburgh area, as well as operations in Hagerstown, Md.
An HCN confirmation of an internal memo by ProBuild CEO Rob Marchbank last week showed that the Denver-based pro dealer has revisited its decision to operate three brand new LBM facilities in the Pittsburgh region.
An attempt to reach ProBuild for comment or explanation received no response.
In January 2012, ProBuild opened a new location in Altoona, Pa., approximately 100 miles east of Pittsburgh. The 65,000-sq.-ft. Altoona facility included a kitchen, bath and millwork showroom, as well as a full assortment of building materials. ProBuild Altoona also offered installation services.
Last year, ProBuild opened two other locations near Pittsburgh, which is the home turf of rival pro dealer 84 Lumber: White Oak, Pa., and Morgantown, W.Va.
ProBuild will close operations in Pittsburgh, affecting the Altoona and White Oak, Pa., locations, as well as Morgantown, W.Va., and Hagerstown, Md.; in last week’s announcement, Marchbank said the Winchester, Va., and Frederick, Md., locations will handle the redirected Hagerstown business.
"The strategy of opening a greenfield location in a competitive market with challenging economic conditions is not an effective approach to market growth," Marchbank wrote in the memo.


text:
Vivendi Games Mobile scored a major win at the 4th annual Spike TV Video Game Awards held on Friday, December 8th in Los Angeles.
Less than a year into its emergence as a global games publisher for mobile phones, Vivendi Games Mobile won the Best Wireless Game award for its shooter action title SWAT Force, beating out contenders Diner Dash, Tower Bloxx and Super K.O. Boxing.
“I can’t think of a better way for Vivendi Games Mobile to celebrate its successful entry into the business,” said Paul Maglione, president of Vivendi Games Mobile. “The quality of our games is being recognized across our entire slate of titles, but to receive this special acknowledgement for SWAT is indeed an honor. We look forward to building the SWAT franchise and evolving the title to deliver an even better game for mobile devices worldwide.”
Virginie Grange, director of Corporate Business Development for Vivendi Games Mobile, accepted the Spike TV Video Game award and gave a brief acceptance speech. “This award is a great validation for Vivendi Games Mobile and its ability to successfully translate popular video game franchises such as SWAT into a superlative mobile game.”
Over the course of 2006, SWAT Force has racked up accolades from major game reviewers, including a Mobie Award nomination from CNET Networks Games & Entertainment and an IGN Editor’s Choice Award. In its review, IGN stated, “SWAT Force is one of the better PC-to-mobile games we have played.” SWAT Force is currently available to Cingular Wireless, Sprint Wireless, and Amp’d Mobile customers in the US, and will soon be available to Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile customers as well. SWAT Force has also launched on mobile carriers throughout Europe.
Actor Samuel L. Jackson hosted this year’s Spike TV Video Game awards event, which featured performances by Tenacious D and AFI, and special guest appearances by 50 Cent, Tyrese, Heroes’ stars Hayden Panettiere and Masi Oka, Eva Mendez, Rachel Leigh Cook, Sarah Silverman, and others. The Spike TV Video Game Awards broadcast will debut this Wednesday, 12/13, at 10 p.m. ET/PT.


text:
10 Reasons Amazon Should Pick Toronto for HQ2
October 25, 2017
Let’s do this, Amazon …
Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos is busy taking over the world. He doesn’t have time to read in-depth proposals from cities vying for Amazon’s second headquarters (HQ2), a jackpot worth $5 billion U.S. and 50,000 lucrative tech jobs.
To keep things simple, here’s a quick business case championing Toronto for Amazon HQ2, gleaned from my 83% win rate on RFP project teams across the U.S., Canada and Europe.
1. Top tech talent:
Nicknamed Silicon Valley North, Toronto is North America’s fastest growing tech market.[i] It’s home to:
- 4100 active tech startups;
- Technology graduates from prestigious schools (including nearby University of Toronto, York University and University of Waterloo); and
- Amazon’s rivals, tech giants Apple, Facebook, Google, plus Google’s new cutting-edge Alphabet Labs tech neighbourhood.[ii]
Amazon would gain impressive tech expertise — at more affordable rates than in the U.S., saving $1.5 billion per year (!) on salaries — while keeping a close eye on its fiercest competitors in Toronto’s thriving business environment.[iii]
Investing in the future: Federal and provincial governments
are funding AI and supply chain education and research
to support sustainable economic growth.
Looking to the future, Toronto received praise for government commitment “to STEM fields like no other city in the U.S.”[iv] The government of Ontario committed $30 million to boost the number of artificial intelligence (AI) graduates in the province.[v]
2. Serious brain gain:
The U.S. administration’s America First policy threatens non-U.S. talent, who need the H-1B “genius visa” to work in the United States. (At competitor Facebook, such foreign guests account for 15% of workers.)[vi]
By contrast, Canada’s tech sector is happy to welcome brilliant minds from all over the world. That’s why Business Insider called Canada’s immigration policy more liberal and welcoming than America’s.[vii]
Why does this matter? To be the best in the world, Amazon needs the best talent in the world.
That’s why Jeff Bezos is not afraid of Trump. Not even a smidge. He knows his company will long outlast the current administration and any protectionist policies it puts forth.
Smokin’ hot tech scene: Toronto’s thriving tech community includes proven experts like tech marketing star Jason Goldlist, Co-founder at TechToronto.org (#TechTO) on the hoverboard.
3. Cheap Canadian dollar:
With a comparatively lower dollar, “Toronto looks cheap compared to premium U.S. markets like San Francisco, New York and Boston.”[viii] The Canadian dollar would give Amazon a sustained source of cost efficiency the retailer won’t achieve in its domestic market.
Such cost control is imperative since (it’s core to the Amazon brand and) the company is serious about conquering everyday low price retailer Walmart.
Surprising many, Toronto’s HQ2 bid did not offer any financial incentives. Why? Because we *are* the financial incentive.
4. Continental domination:
Establishing an eastern presence for HQ2 balances out Amazon’s Seattle headquarters in the west. Creating a robust supply chain network in Toronto will ensure the e-commerce giant serves shoppers with even greater agility and speed for a superior customer experience across the entire continent.
5. Local bounty:
To continue to beat Walmart in e-grocery by offering the fresh, local and organic products consumers crave, Amazon and Whole Foods will benefit from a Toronto location. More than 70,000 farms exist nearby within the province of Ontario, ready to serve hungry in-store and e-grocery shoppers.[vi]
Drake + Amazon: Think about it.
6. Cultural hotspot:
Toronto is a destination city with a vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to international stars like rap mastermind Drake, literary giant Margaret Atwood and the Raptors basketball team, among others. The abundance of cultural options would offer Amazon employees a fulfilling quality of life.
BBC Radio even declared Toronto the most diverse city in the world, as 51% of residents were born outside Canada.[x] Toronto’s inclusive rainbow of ethnicities means Amazon employees would feel at home, no matter where in the world they’re from.
Yet an inclusive culture means more than feel-good, “kumbaya” benefits …
Toronto’s diversity is also a business asset. Amazon is thinking beyond North America to compete with Asia’s retail monsters, including China’s Alibaba and JD.com. (Amazon even considered buying India e-grocer BigBasket the week it acquired Whole Foods.)
As Amazon’s first of many international headquarters, Toronto would offer an abundance of culturally-diverse talent. These citizens could also give Amazon insights into other markets and continents it plans to conquer — while minimizing the risk of foreign expansion.
7. Justin Trudeau:
As former TD Bank president CEO Ed Clark declared, “The American dream hasn’t died; it just lives here in Canada.”
That’s because Canada’s progressive prime minister aligns with many principles that values-oriented millennial and Gen Z Amazon shoppers (and tech workers) desire, including diversity, openness, innovation, sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Plus he’s dreamy.
8. Saucy humour:
Where else in the world will you find a giant phallic symbol (the CN Tower, above) or trade the American eagle for the equally-dignified beaver as a national animal?
Toronto’s long history of comedic brilliance, which produced such stars as Mike Myers, Jim Carrey and Martin Short, will keep Amazon employees laughing all year round. And happy workers are productive workers, so cha-ching!
9. Safest city by far:
The Economist Intelligence Unit just named Toronto the 4th safest city in the world after Tokyo, Singapore and Osaka — making Toronto the safest city in the Western hemisphere.
This significant announcement comes at a time when security is a profound strategic advantage to keep employees and assets safe, and reduce the risk of business disruption.[viii]
10. International respect:
Just announced: For the second consecutive year, Canada ranks 2nd in the world on the 2018 Best Countries list compiled by U.S. News in partnership with Wharton. (Switzerland ranks 1st.) The U.S. slipped to 8th place, proving Canada is an attractive, strong and worthy competitor.[xii]
The Bottom Line for Amazon HQ2:
It’s time to put the “eh” in Amazon.
For a strategically sound, safe and affordable source of productive employees who will delight shoppers (and accelerate Amazon’s global retail and tech domination), Toronto is where it’s at.
What do you think? Is Toronto ready for this retail tech jackpot — or is another city a better fit for Amazon HQ2?
Lisa Goller is a marketing and communications professional with over 15 years of experience serving B2B, tech and retail companies. She helps businesses tell their story through irresistible content marketing and strategic communications.
[i] Jackson, Brian. Tech talent in Toronto, Vancouver is top quality at budget rate: CBRE Report. IT World Canada. July 20, 2017.
[ii] Dingman, Shane. Toronto’s tech startup scene in a ‘blossom state.’ The Globe and Mail. February 14, 2016.
[iii] The Canadian Press. Amazon would save $1.5B a year in salaries if new HQ in Toronto area: Ed Clark. CBC News. October 18, 2017.
[iv] Cawley, Conor. The Case for Each of Amazon’s HQ2 Finalist Cities. TechCo. January 18, 2018.
[v] The Canadian Press. Ontario commits $30M for A.I. grads in bid to woo Amazon. CBC News. October 18, 2017.
[vi] Haavardsrud, Paul. ‘Trump has scared the bejesus out of everyone’: How Canada could win the Amazon sweepstakes. CBC News. September 23, 2017.
[vii] Green, Dennis. Canada just escalated the $5 billion war for Amazon’s second headquarters. Business Insider. September 25, 2017.
[viii] Jackson, Brian. Tech talent in Toronto, Vancouver is top quality at budget rate: CBRE Report. IT World Canada. July 20, 2017.
[ix] Statistical Summary of Ontario Agriculture. Ontario Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs. June 5, 2017.
[x] Flack, Derek. Toronto named most diverse city in the world. blogTO. May 15, 2016.
[xi] Bennet, Bailey. These Are the Safest Cities to Live in Around the World. Travel + Leisure. October 12, 2017.
[xii] Drew, Kevin. America Slips in the Eyes of the World. U.S. News. January 23, 2018.


text:
Microsoft is apparently gearing up to take on the Apple TV at the Consumer Electronics Show with the introduction of Windows TV. The new product from Redmond is said to be a stripped down version of the Windows operating system with the Windows Media Center interface bolted on top, according to the Seattle Times.
Windows TV will support media streaming and remote control support, and like other Microsoft products, it will be up to third-party manufacturers to build devices based on the platform. Hints of the new platform showed up when Microsoft introduced its new embedded software products in April, 2010, and at the Intel conference a few months later in September.
According to reports, Windows TV products are expected to go on sale later in 2011 and will be priced around the US$200 mark. At twice the price of the new Apple TV, however, Microsoft’s partners may have a hard time selling to price-conscious consumers.
Company’s could potentially draw in consumers by offering features like built-in storage since the Apple TV only offers video and audio streaming and doesn’t include a hard drive.
Assuming Microsoft is ready to announce Windows TV, the company will likely do so at its keynote presentation at CES Wednesday evening. The Mac Observer will be on location with event coverage.


text:
Bitcoin has continued its big December rally over the previous few days, climbing to a complete worth of around half a trillion dollars ($500 billion).
The bitcoin value, breaking $28,000 per bitcoin for the primary time ever over the Christmas weekend, has added over 50% this month—with different main tokens ethereum and litecoin surging along with it.
The December Santa rally, pushing bitcoin properly past its 2017 all-time highs and serving to ethereum and litecoin attain triple-digit proportion level positive aspects for the 12 months, could have been helped by the world’s largest asset supervisor, BlackRock
BlackRock is looking to hire a blockchain vice chairman “to create and implement methods designed to drive demand for the agency’s choices,” based on a job advert that seems to have been posted on Christmas day, December 25.
BlackRock’s New York-based VP of blockchain will assist with the valuation of crypto-assets and “improve the worth proposition to shoppers of the agency’s investments and expertise choices.”
Potential candidates ought to be capable of “devise and articulate basic valuation methodologies for crypto-assets; consider recreation concept and decentralizing governance fashions related to blockchain expertise,” based on the job put up.
The bitcoin value has added over 10% since Christmas day, with ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency by worth after bitcoin, climbing virtually 15% to over $700 per ether token—it is highest since Could 2018.
Litecoin, the fifth Most worthy cryptocurrency after the embattled XRP and generally referred to as the silver to bitcoin’s gold, has additionally added round 15%, reaching $130.
BlackRock, which manages round $8 trillion price of belongings, despatched shockwaves by way of bitcoin and cryptocurrency markets in latest weeks after its chief funding officer bitcoin is “right here to remain” and Larry Fink, BlackRock’s chief government, warned the rising reputation of bitcoin and digital currencies is having a “real impact” on the U.S. dollar.
In the meantime, bitcoin and cryptocurrency merchants are frantically readjusting to bitcoin’s new bullish paradigm.
“The important thing bitcoin ranges the market has in sight short-term are $30,000 and $36,000,” crypto dealer Alex Krüger, who’s assured extra institutional traders and Wall Road giants will quickly by wading into bitcoin and crypto however warned they want sturdy nerves, stated by way of Telegram.
“New traders want to have the ability to abdomen a 20% correction, as it should come, possible quickly,” Krüger stated.
“I am nonetheless anticipating a lot greater costs in 2021 and for so long as leverage and positioning do not develop into too excessive, as measured by funding charges and open curiosity metrics, I will not be frightened in regards to the draw back. I wager many huge names will quickly be asserting contemporary bitcoin positions. Others are nonetheless to comply with.”


text:
Presented by Hemp Hop, The High Times Hemp Cup: People’s Choice Edition unites competitors and judges from all areas of the hemp space. The festivities begin this January as High Times begins accepting entries, and the event wraps up April 3, 2022, with the official Digital Awards Show.
The High Times Hemp Cup: People’s Choice Edition aims to identify and award the best hemp-derived CBD products across the nation. That’s why we provide a wide range of different categories, covering everything from topicals to pet products.
The 2018 Farm Bill pretty much changed everything, for better or for worse. It reshaped the landscape for hemp farmers, processors and extractors, paving the way for hemp competitions that are open to the public.
This event will be the only the second time this competition is open to the nationwide public, and we will see the largest pool of judges in the cup’s history. This is a sampling dream to get your products into the hands of hundreds of new customers—complete with feedback on your entries and thousands of impressions. May the best products win!
Competitor product submissions can be sent to Long Beach, California during the time period spanning January 17-21, 2022. And guess what? Judge Kits will be on-sale for online ordering across the nation on January 29, 2022. The judging timeframe runs from January 29, 2022 through March 20, 2022.
The Digital Awards Show will take place on Sunday, April 3, 2022, where we will present the more luxurious hemp offerings around. With this in mind, stay hydrated, stash some munchies, find a designated driver or do whatever other steps you need to ensure it’s a safe competition.
Keep in mind—this is strictly a hemp-derived CBD competition only. All products must be registered by the State of origin and must have proof of lab results confirming the product is hemp-derived and under 0.3 percent delta-9 THC. Also keep in mind, Delta-8 THC products will be judged separately from the other categories.
We also want to give a shoutout to our Silver Sponsor, Orange County CBD, as well as our Bronze Sponsor, Sweet Sensi. We couldn’t bring these amazing events to the public without their support.
Hemp Cup: What You Need to Know
There will be plenty of categories to choose from covering all of the facets of the hemp industry. Entry categories include Hemp-Derived CBD Edibles: Gummies (NO Delta-8 allowed); Hemp-Derived CBD Edibles: Non-Gummies (NO Delta-8 allowed); Hemp-Derived CBD Tinctures + Capsules (NO Delta-8 allowed); Hemp-Derived CBD Topicals (NO Delta-8 allowed); Hemp-Derived CBD Flower (NO Delta-8 allowed); Hemp-Derived CBD Pre-Rolls (NO Delta-8 allowed); Hemp-Derived CBD Concentrates (NO Delta-8 allowed); Hemp-Derived CBD Vape Pens (NO Delta-8 allowed); Hemp-Derived CBD Pet Products (NO Delta-8 allowed) and Delta-8 Products – Mixed Products.
Each category has different benefits and perks for being crowned with a High Times Hemp Cup Award, depending on the award.
Please keep in mind the entry requirements, which are different for each category, and they are listed below:
Flower: (200) 1-2g samples
Pre-Rolls: (200) samples around 1-2g
Concentrates and Vapes: (200) .5-1g samples
Edibles: (200) Samples
Topicals, Tinctures and Capsules: (200) samples
Delta-8 Products: (200) samples
Pet Products: (100) samples
Entry pricing is $500 per entry that is submitted. Enter 3-4, and get one more—free. Enter 5-7 and get two more free entries. Enter 8-11 and get three more free entries. Enter over a dozen and get five more free.
Since 1988, High Times Cannabis Cup events have taken shape all over the world. Now’s your chance to be part of the action.
The post High Times Hemp Cup: People’s Choice Edition 2022 Takes Shape appeared first on High Times.
We’re excited to announce the High Times Hemp Cup: People’s Choice Edition is returning in 2022. You don’t want to miss this.
The post High Times Hemp Cup: People’s Choice Edition 2022 Takes Shape appeared first on High Times.Cannabis Cup, Events, News, awards, California, competition, Delta-8, featured, Hemp, Hemp Cup, hemp-derived, High Times, Judge Kits, judges, Long Beach