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British government to open office in San Diego
SAN DIEGO (KUSI) — The United Kingdom might be exiting the European Union, but it’s strengthening economic ties to San Diego and two other U.S. cities, the UK Department for International Trade announced Tuesday.
The British government announced that it will open offices in San Diego, Minneapolis and Raleigh to promote U.K. business, economic and political ties.
“Our ambitious vision for an open and outward-looking U.K. economy includes growing our footprint in the most important markets around the world, and these three cities offer exciting opportunities to boost trade and investment,” said Liam Fox, international trade secretary.
He said the cities were chosen because of their economic productivity, and well-established research and development institutions.
San Diego officials have been building ties with the U.K. over the past year or so through a Brookings Institution program and have been trying to boost the city’s international business profile, building on the thriving life sciences industry, tourism and defense.
“As San Diego’s reputation as a global hub for trade and innovation continues to grow, we are excited to welcome a consulate office of the United Kingdom to our region,” Mayor Kevin Faulconer said. “I look forward to working with British representatives to strengthen San Diego’s relationship with the U.K.”
According to the British trade department, each of the new offices will be staffed by one employee who will be recruited in the U.S., a model used successfully at similar locations in Denver and Seattle.
The U.K. also has offices in Los Angeles, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Miami, New York, San Francisco and Washington, D.C.


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Crowds prompt thirsty resident to wonder aloud when convenience store refrigerators will be replenished
By: George Liao, Taiwan News, Staff Writer
Since the beginning of the long holiday on Thursday (June 25), more than 3,500 tourists have landed on Orchid Island, which is off the coast of Taiwan's southeastern Taitung County. As a holiday heatwave has been roasting much of the nation, including Orchid Island, most of the drink shelves at the 7-Eleven convenience store on the island were emptied by tourists as soon as they were replenished, according to CNA.
The fact that the island's Hongtou (紅頭) and Dongcing (東清) villages are also holding millet harvest festivals during this period has contributed to a larger than usual number of visitors to the island. Each ferry to the island reached its passenger capacity during the first three days of the holiday.
A convenience store clerk said that as the sun was belting down on tourists over the holiday, drinks were the hottest merchandise, and other items such as instant noodles, bread, and packaged snacks were selling well, too. [FULL STORY]

domain: news


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Oct. 6 event to involve 66 locations across the US and Canada.
Last Look: New video boards for Roland Garros
Cineplex Digital Media (Toronto) has been chosen to install an in-store digital signage and kiosk network for Toys “R” Us’ new concept store in Langley, BC,...
French Open signage at Roland Garros
Event brought together more than 1,000 Fab Labs from around the globe in digital manufacturing, innovation and technology.
Last Look: Vivid signage at Nathan Phillips Square
Raise your glass to old school London pub signage
A lighting change on the International Space Station could create health benefits for earthlings.
Hotel signs beckon guests, attract tourists and can become local landmarks.
Timber Signs is a cut above the rest


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Despite recent recession fears, Berkshire Hathaway’s third-quarter operating profits were up. Meanwhile, Warren Buffett continued to buy his stock at a moderate pace.
The Omaha-based company made a total of $7.761 billion in the third quarter, up 20% from last year’s period.
Insurance-investment income increased to $1.408 billion this year, up from $1.161 billion in 2020. Earnings from the company’s utilities and energy businesses rose to $1.585 billion from $1.496 billion last year. However, insurance underwriting suffered a loss of 962 million, while railroad earnings dipped to $1.442 billion from $1.538 billion in 2020.
Berkshire spent $1.05 billion to buy back shares during the quarter, bringing the total for nine months up to $5.25 billion. The pace of buying is in line with the $1 billion purchase from the second quarter. As a result, they were on par with CFRA’s predictions—the company estimated it would spend similar amounts to those in the first quarter ($3.2 billion).
Berkshire also posted a net loss in the third quarter of $2.69 billion. That was because of a drop in their equities due to the market’s rollercoaster ride.
According to Bloomberg, Berkshire lost $10.1 billion on its investments during the quarter, bringing the total decline to $63.9 billion. Despite this sizable loss, legendary investor Warren Buffett reminded investors that these sorts of losses could happen at any time and often have little impact on the economy.
The shares of Warren Buffett’s conglomerate have outperformed the S&P 500 this year, as Class A shares dropped about 4% compared to the stock’s 20% decline. The stock dipped 0.6% in the third quarter.
The companies of Berkshire Hathaway have stakes in well-known businesses like Coca-Cola, Goldman Sachs, and GEICO.
(BRK.A) – Berkshire Hathaway increased 1.5% in premarket trading after Warren Buffett’s firm reported better-than-expected net income, with revenue also surpassing Street forecasts. However, Berkshire reported a net loss as a declining stock market ate into the value of its equity portfolio.
Apart from Berkshire Hathaway’s report, some other companies saw big moves in the premarket, with Meta gaining 2.6% after The Wall Street Journal reports that the Facebook parent company is preparing to announce large-scale layoffs this week.
The late Steve Jobs founded and co-founded Apple, a company whose innovations have impacted the world, saw shares slide 1.8% in the premarket. Covid-19 restrictions are hindering iPhone production at its Foxconn factory in China. That factory is the world’s biggest iPhone production site.
DoorDash, founded in 2012, has grown to over 200 cities across the United States. The company employs about 10,000 drivers who offer carbon-neutral food deliveries from 3,500 restaurants.
The delivery service recently received an upgrade from Oppenheimer’s stock analysts to “outperform” from “perform.” This move points to improvements in U.S. restaurant margins and other factors. In premarket trading, shares of DoorDash gained 2.7%.
OKTA, the identity management software maker and (guggenheim.org)+, sent its stock skyrocketing after a Guggenheim upgrade. It called the stock’s current valuation too potentially profitable to pass up.
Yamana Gold lost 2.7% in the premarket after Gold Fields. GFI said it would keep the terms of its takeover deal with Yamana. Agnico Eagle Mines.
(VLDR), which was in the process of being acquired by Ouster last year, has changed its name to (VELDYNE) and will take over as the publicly traded company. The merger is called a “merger of equals” because both companies maintain equal control. Ouster jumped 5.1% in premarket trading, while Velodyne rallied 5.6%.
Ryanair offers low-cost flights to European, African, and Asian destinations. They are known for their cheap promotional fares but also offer hotel partners, car hire, and ski packages. The airline’s stock has been trading at a higher price lately, and it just gained 6.2% in the morning.
BioNTech is a European biotech company that develops products for use in animal and human medicine. The drug manufacturer’s shares are down 3.4% in the pre-market despite reporting better-than-expected quarterly profits and revenue. Unlike last year, profit and revenue were off significantly more than 40%.
The information contained in this post is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by FinanceOpinion.net and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the post for any purpose.


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OK, Visteon Corp., what changed your mind? Was it the reaction from your suppliers, or the public attention?
Either way, you made the right decision. Backing off the pay-to-play demand and saying you now prefer a collaborative approach to working with suppliers is exactly the right message. Back up those words with action and you'll be every supplier's best friend.
Still, you have to wonder ...
Back in January, someone, probably a disgruntled supplier, leaked Visteon's ``request for quotes'' documents to several newspapers, including Plastics News. Our Detroit-based reporter Rhoda Miel joined forces with Terry Kosdrosky, a reporter at sister publication Crain's Detroit Business, to shine a light on the policy. Their story ended up on Page 1 of the Feb. 24 editions of Plastics News, Crain's Detroit Business and Automotive News - and other media quickly picked up the story.
Visteon was caught like a deer in the headlights. The company was demanding that its suppliers of injection molded components pay hefty upfront fees in order to win long-term work. Visteon claimed the upfront payments - equal to 10 percent of the contract's first-year value - were just a tool to determine which firms were willing to remain connected to Visteon as it shaved its supplier base from 2,500 to 500.
To injection molders, the payments sounded more like extortion. Some auto industry consultants agreed.
Now Visteon has reversed course, which makes sense, given that Jonathan Maples, Visteon's vice president of quality and materials management, has a history of working well with suppliers. After all, he was a colleague of Tom Stallkamp during the era of Chrysler Corp.'s popular Supplier Cost Reduction Effort program.
As an aside, that's a reminder of one of the curious parts of this story. It's no secret which auto companies work well with their suppliers and which have a reputation for beating suppliers upside the head whenever they get within arm's reach. The more collaborative automakers generally are very happy with their cooperative approach because they appreciate the numerous benefits - working as a team has a way of paying off for everyone involved. The confrontational companies annually swear off the nasty habit, only to relapse like drunken sailors on shore leave as soon as times get tough. Why would Visteon choose now to explore the less-popular way?
Chalk it up to the competitive pressure in the auto industry, where cutting costs has become a cost of doing business. Auto manufacturing capacity far exceeds demand, and consumers are accustomed to low prices, big rebates and zero-interest financing. Visteon investigated another path, but was throttled in the attempt by public opinion and the reaction from its suppliers.
Any company that decides to go with a pay-to-play plan needs to learn from Visteon's mistake. The right path is clear: It's no secret that the Japanese carmakers have the best reputation for working as a team with their suppliers. Emulating them on a Big Three scale isn't going to be easy, but it's the best strategy.


text: K•Swiss Inc. (NASDAQ:KSWS) today announced details for the release of its results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2012. K•Swiss plans to issue its third quarter earnings release before the market opens on November 1, 2012, and will host a conference call at 11:00 a.m. ET on the same day. The number to call for this interactive teleconference is 212-231-2901. A replay of the conference call will be available through November 8, 2012, by dialing 402-977-9140 and entering 21575277 when prompted for the access code. The live broadcast of K•Swiss' quarterly conference call will be available online at www.streetevents.com and www.earnings.com on November 1, beginning at 11:00 a.m. ET. The online replay will follow shortly after the call and continue through November 8, 2012. Founded more than forty years ago in Van Nuys, California, K•Swiss introduced the first all-leather tennis shoe, the K•Swiss “Classic” in 1966. Since its inception, K•Swiss has rooted itself in California Sport with an aim to be the most inspiring and innovative sports brand in the market. Today the Company offers performance and lifestyle footwear and apparel for several categories under its California Sports umbrella including Tennis Heritage, California Fit (Running, Triathlon and Fitness) and California Youth. K•Swiss also designs, develops and markets footwear under the Palladium brand. For more information about K•Swiss, visit www.kswiss.com.


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For a game that was received so poorly by critics, reaching more than one million sales in such a short time is quite an achievement and goes to show how strong the 50 Cent brand is, especially in the US, but also in the UK.
"The exciting convergence of gaming and music helped make 50 Cent: Bulletproof one of GameStop's top selling titles in the month of December," said Bob McKenzie, Sr. Vice President of Merchandising.
One of the keys to the title's success may well be the extra content included with the game, making it a must have for fans, despite the actual game being a below average action title. More than four CDs worth of music is included with the game, including new exclusive tracks from 50 Cent, and more than a dozen music videos.
"Gamers and 50 fans alike have enthusiastically responded to the groundbreaking fusion of frenetic gameplay and the lyrical imagery of the exclusive 50 Cent music tracks in 50 Cent: Bulletproof," said Cindy Cook, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer, VU Games. "The strong sales of Bulletproof underscore the undeniable appeal of the artist, his music and the engaging interactive experience that this game delivers."


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Chelsea‘s new kits for the 2017/18 season have been leaked online, with manufacturers Nike taking over for the first time, and some supporters are getting pretty excited.
For more than a decade now, German giants Adidas have manufactured the Blues’ home, away and third kits for their Premier League and European campaigns but American behemoth Nike are taking the reins from now on in a deal though to be worth £60 million per season.
Nike and Chelsea have agreed a contract until 2032 and fans have been eager to get a glimpse of what Diego Costa, Eden Hazard and Willian will all be wearing next season.
It looks like the final designs have been leaked online ahead of their official launch on July 1, and for some supporters that date can’t come quick enough:
— Çįňģśè (@naufal_arisando) June 18, 2017
Home, Away and Third Kit pic.twitter.com/GmhNcKCHyE
— Absolute Chelsea (@AbsoluteChelsea) June 17, 2017
— ConteTweets (@ConteTweets) June 17, 2017
— ConteTweets (@ConteTweets) June 16, 2017
— Abhimanyu Jamwal (@abhi1manyu) June 18, 2017
all I want in July is
CHELSEA NEW KIT AND NEW SIGNING HAH
— raka arya (@rakkaryyy) June 18, 2017
Wish chelsea would just sign someone already or even launch the new kit? board here man
— david clark (@daveclarkcfc) June 18, 2017
It's actually agonizing waiting for the new Chelsea kit deal + the announcement of signings to take place ?
— Evan McMurtrie (@EvanMcMurtrie) June 17, 2017
Love the new rumoured chelsea home kit??? https://t.co/k6fnZzqL4r
— Rohit Reddy (@RohitReddy08) June 17, 2017
What do you think of the design? And could Chelsea really be waiting to confirm signings until the new strip is in the shops?
What do you think?


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Kaitlyn Dever in a custom red Louis Vuitton strapless gown and stole made of GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) Taroni silk-satin embroidered with red-blue beads at the Vermont Atelier in Paris, certified according to the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and approved by the Red Carpet Green Dress organization. Who knows what all that gobbledy-greengook means exactly, but it sounds good coming from a brand whose parent LVMH has faced criticism for not signing the United Nations' fashion industry charter for climate action.
Louis Vuitton designer Nicolas Ghesquière has had a banner red-carpet season, no doubt about it. On Sunday, he also dressed Lea Seydoux using certified ivory silk, and a new wood fiber textile developed by Tencel Luxe that will hit the market this May.
When you think about it, it’s tragic, but it’s part of the human condition. We really wasted our planet in a way, said Seydoux during a fitting at the Chateau Marmont earlier in the week, when the street was closed off so Oscars sponsor Cadillac could crane in a 2021 Escalade to sit poolside for a cocktail bash.
“We have to rethink how we consume,” added the actress, set to reprise her role as Madeleine Swann in the upcoming Bond film, before asking for recommendations for Los Angeles vintage shops.


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The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is looking at consumer debt incurred at work to pay for needed equipment and training – a trend known as “employer debt.”
In some cases, employees must subscribe to “debt products” which they must repay if they leave “before a certain date”. The CFPB said in a statement.
“For example, a company can offer training to a new hire and require the cost of the training to be reimbursed if the employee leaves or is terminated within a specified period of time,” says the CFPB.
The CFPB said these financial arrangements could pose serious risks to consumers, including “overstretching of household finances, service and collection errors, defaults and inaccurate credit reports.”
It could also make it difficult for an employee to move to another workplace. “The labor market works best when workers can move freely within it,” CFPB Director Rohit Chopra said. “Our investigation is investigating the effects of an emerging form of debt that may have the potential to trap employees on the spot.”
The survey comes at a time when employers, often in partnership with fintech companies, are offering different financing products to their employees.
The CFPB is seeking public comment and information on the impact of “employer-driven debt,” particularly from employers, consumers, labor organizations and trade unions.
Kabbage co-founders Kathryn Petralia and Rob Frohwein recently launched Keep Financial, which allows employers to offer cash bonuses in the form of loans to employees. Keep is the lender, which can differentiate its product from those the CFPB has described as under investigation. Another company, Salary Finance, works with employers to offer financing products, including short-term loans, to their employees.
Bolt, an e-commerce software company, has caught the eye for directly offering loans to employees to purchase stock options, program co-founder Ryan Breslow boasted on Twitter. An employee says Business Insider he borrowed tens of thousands of dollars to buy stocks, only to lose his job in recent layoffs. These loans are optional, unlike the required equipment or training outlined in the CFPB announcement.


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A more liveable future is in sight with this Watsons initiative
It’s not just about shopping anymore. Now, we shop with a purpose. The talk about sustainability has been rising unbelievably these past few years, and coming to a stop is not in the agenda. Everyone has been actively making their honest arguments about the importance of living a more sustainable lifestyle, and various local and international brands such as Human Nature and Thayers have taken a step back to look at the bigger picture. These brands have become more friendly towards the environment in creating their products starting from the first mix of natural ingredients all the way to the packaging. As a response to the constant call for responsible consumption and production, A.S. Watson Group has launched their strengthened social purpose and 2030 Sustainability Vision.
According to Group COO of A.S. Watson Group and CEO of A.S. Watson (Asia and Europe) Malina Ngai, “We have a strong sense of responsibility to create a better world through our global operations.” The company’s 2030 Sustainability Vision creates a renewable path as it aims to achieve electricity intensity reduction by 30%, reduce GHG emissions by 40%, and eliminate unnecessary packaging.
Local effort, worldwide effect
Every step towards progress, no matter how big or small, is always progress. To support the 2030 Sustainability Vision, Watsons has partnered with SM Supermalls in the Trash to Cash Recycling Market. Through this initiative, empty and unused packaging of different health and beauty products can be dropped off at designated recycling areas in exchange for monetary and in-kind incentives.
Carrying an extensive range of clean beauty brands is also Watsons’ way of continuously promoting long-term sustainability. Haircare brands like Naturals by Watsons and Herbal Essences, personal care brands like Dove and Nivea, and skincare brands like Luxe Organix and Aveeno are only some of those whose products are free of any unwanted ingredients such as O-phenylphenol, Microplastics, and Methylene Glycol that may have terrible outcomes on the skin and in the environment. Not only that, but Watsons also provides refill packs to encourage consumers in reusing containers, which helps in reducing unnecessary waste.
Join Watsons in their sustainable initiative by visiting any Watsons store nationwide. To shop online, you may check their mobile app or website, and even use their call and delivery service at select stores. Visit their website and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for more information.


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Black Friday sales that start before Thanksgiving gives enthusiastic shoppers even more time to take advantage of the best deals of the year. Some of the best offerings from Kohl's Black Friday 2019 sale are available to claim as early as Nov. 25, and the deals are pretty fantastic.
If you find yourself with some free time between trips to the grocery store in the week leading up to Thanksgiving (starting Nov. 25), you may want to pop into your local Kohl’s or shop online because in addition to tons of discounted products, you’ll get $15 Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent and 15% off all purchases in-store and online (use code THANKS15 if you're shopping from home). If you’re not already familiar, Kohl’s Cash works essentially as a gift card that you can spend on a future Kohl’s purchase (there are no brand exclusions, per the company’s website) as long as you use it before it expires. It's like free money, kind of.
On Thursday, Nov. 28, customers will find doorbuster deals including, $68 Instant Pots and $100 Fitbits, while the official Black Friday sale begins on Thanksgiving day; online the deals will be available at 12:01 a.m. Central Time on Thursday morning, and store will open at 5 p.m. local time. The doorbuster deals are only offered until 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 29 while supplies last, so if you plan on shopping in person, it could be worth it to hop in the car and hit up your local Kohl's right after you've had your fill of pie.
In the meantime, read on for some of the absolute best deals from the Kohl’s Black Friday sale so you can plan accordingly.


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Five years on from founding a new type of component distribution model, Jens Gamperl is very much about the digital supply chain.
“We started integrating supply chain vendors into technology – the first step, the most successful, is SourceEngine as an independent e-commerce e-marketplace,” he said. “We have 2600 suppliers, manufacturers, direct or franchised distributors with real time access to inventory and pricing.”
“The company turns five years old this week and our goal is to provide technology for the whole electronics supply chain, from the manufacturers and franchised distributors, through to open market distributors and we have a lot of inventory through OEMs and EMS that the market tries to absorb,” he said.
This is now happening with Sourceengine providing the link between all kinds of databases and customers to offer bill of material (BoM) management functions, real-time data and a global database of parts with full traceability. Five years ago, Gamperl bought a small distributor in Miami, Florida, to get access to the basic API technology to connect to the databases of both chip and system manufacturers.
Since then the company has risen up the ranking of global distribution companies and this week is re-vamping its branding. “In the last two years we were in the top 25 distributors globally with over $125m with 90 locations,” said Gamperl. “We have 550m data sheets, lifecycle information, cross referenced so we give the engineer all the tools to provide access to a truly global supply chain in real-time.”
Next: Different distribution models
Alongside Sourcengine, Sourceability operates also Surcle, which combines professional matchmaking, crowdsourcing, and a global supplier marketplace to accelerate hardware development. Start-ups and medium-sized businesses can post projects to a global network of engineers and manufacturers who bid with solutions to help product managers adapt to shifting priorities, unforeseen issues and internal time-constraints.
“With Surcle and, by extension, the Burn-In, we are aiming to support the design process from start to finish. Budgets are tight, especially when it comes to smaller teams and businesses. By providing access to a network of fellow innovators, we can help companies get over the line in terms of product development and reduce time to market,” said Gamperl.
The new BoM tool can dramatically simplfy the procurement process he says, allowing a BoM to be uploaded and sourced, along with flags for parts that may be coming to end of life. Suggestions are then made for more up-to-date parts. “The BoM tool allows you to source 2000 line items with a click – we do the consolidation of the logistics and quality control if necessary.”
“We had a huge response to the launch at Electronica in 2018 but customers had issues with ERP and SAP systems and we had to integrate the data that is available through APIs to the ERP systems – that is where we got a boost compared to the catalogue distributors.
“We’ve been doing this for three months – we have the API with one large semiocnductor conpany for example to expand their digital footprint and reduce their distributors by the end of 2020. Our platform gives them the opportunity to compare what’s happening in the market.”
But chip makers, system makers and customers are all at different stages of digital development. “Some suppliers have APIs for data but not for quoting, so we are giving our technology to the custom by delivering the API and the integration into the ERP and to the manufacture to take portions of our technology,” he said.
“Out of the top ten EMS [contract manufacturers] we have integrated our API into 4. They all get it through API. They have sophisticated technologies so they can use it inside their own world and we have long term relationships with these guys,” said Gamperl.
He highlights that the customer, small and large, needs full traceability and access to the manufacturer. “I’m not a franchise but I buy from them and sell through Sourceengine,” he said.
While the API works for the large manufacturers, getting the data from the smaller ones needs a different approach. “We use the different platforms to create content and projects for small and medium manufacturers,” he said. “Then their data ends up in Sourceengine to be available for our customers.”
“Ultimately, we see ourselves as a tech company providing platforms that enrich the engineering community by giving every link in the supply chain the tools, solutions and network they need to do what they’re best at without being held back by unnecessarily complicated or inflexible logistics,” he said.
“What’s holding me back is the idea of complete digitalisation – a lot of manufacturers are not there yet, and the Tier One distributors have to figure out how they do this.”
Related distribution articles
- TRENDS IN TIMES OF COVID-19
- DYNAMIC EMS AND THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY
- BREXIT IMPACTS GERMAN ELECTRONIC COMPONENT MARKET


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Traders in several market committees of Maharashtra have stopped purchase and sale of commodities in protest against the government imposing stock limits on pulses. Transactions at Latur, Amravati, Akola, Washim, Khamgaon and other major market committees in the Vidarbha and Marathwada regions have been hit as traders have stopped buying agricultural commodities indefinitely since Monday.
The Federation of Association of Traders Maharashtra (FATM) and the Chamber of Associations of Maharashtra Industry and Trade (CAMIT) Mumbai jointly organised a virtual meeting of trade representatives. A decision was taken to observe a one-day token bandh on July 16 against the Centre’s decision. If the government does not withdraw its order, traders will continue the bandh indefinitely.
Last week, the Centre brought into effect the stock limits and movement restrictions on specified foodstuffs (amendment) order 2021, wherein stock limits have been imposed on wholesalers, retailers, millers and importers of pulses. As per the order, stock limits have been prescribed for all pulses except moong until October 31 for all states and Union Territories. Wholesale traders can stock 200 tonne (but not more than 100 tonne of one variety) while retailers can stock a maximum of 5 tonne. Dal millers can stock 25% of their annual installed capacity or the last three months of production, whichever is higher.
Mohan Gurnani, chairman, CAMIT, said the stock limits have been imposed at a time when pulse prices are coming down, and the decision is not in the interest of traders and farmers. Several mandis in Rajasthan are also closed in protest against the decision, he said. Sancheti, president, FATM, said no restrictions have been imposed on imports.
Pulse traders and millers of Madhya Pradesh have also joined forces against the government’s decision. Traders said imposing storage limit on pulses is not rational or practical. The government is encouraging traders to buy pulses from farmers at higher prices and then expecting them to sell at lower prices, a statement issued by Indore Grain Oilseeds Traders Association said.
Traders said at present, prices of pulses other than lentils are below the minimum support price and in such a situation imposing stock limits is not justified.
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TriGo Electric Secures INR 40 Lakhs in Funding and Strategic Partnership with Kinetic Group’s Ajinkya Firodia
Noida-based EV as a Service startup TriGo Electric has raised an angel cum strategic funding of INR 40 Lakhs in Equity and ( Up to 40 Lakhs credit line) from angel investors Ajinkya Firodia, Managing Director Kinetic Group.
TriGo Electric secured this equity funding deal through their recent participation in ‘Indian Angels’ the world’s first OTT angel investment show, currently being streamed on the JioCinema platform.
“we will mainly utilize the newly-raised capital to fuel various strategic interventions aimed at growing and expanding our business operations, increase fleet size, strengthening the tech platform and research & development.”Regarding the inquiry about funding utilization posed by the Angels, Shahnawaz Rao, Founder & CEO, TriGo Electric said.
Shahnawaz Rao and Dilshad, the dedicated and visionary founders of TriGo Electric, delivered a compelling startup pitch in front of the distinguished panel of angel investors on the show. Their presentation not only garnered heartfelt appreciation but also elicited constructive feedback from all the angels. By the end of presentation, investment offers were extended by two prominent angels, namely Ajinkya Firodia and Ankit Agrawal, who collaborated in their commitment to support TriGo Electric.
Subsequently, after thorough negotiations, the founders opted to accept the offer presented by Ajinkya, and successfully closing the deal. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for TriGo Electric as they embark on a path of growth and innovation with the support of their esteemed investor.
TriGo Electric is steering the green Revolution in Indian logistics & Mobility sectors By its tech-Enabled EV-as-a-Service platform, with a Mission Emission free delivery and to make India carbon-free by using an ecosystem of Electric Vehicles and EV based technology.
The Noida-based startup aims to electrify last-mile deliveries in India. It offers electric two-wheeler fleets with riders to ride-sharing companies, and e-commerce, food, grocery and pharma delivery companies such as BigBasket, JioMart, Tata 1mg, Zepto and Zomato.
The genesis of TriGo Electric traces back to its inception within the nurturing ecosystem of the IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Center, evolving from the forefront of eco-friendly innovation.
“I am thrilled to get the backing by renowned name in automobile, whose investments in TriGo Electric not just validate the huge promise and potential of our business idea, make a meaningful impact. His support goes beyond Funds; it is a vote of confidence that inspires us to strive for excellence. As we continue to drive innovation and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.Speaking about the fundraising, Shahnawaz Rao, Founder of TriGo Electric, said,
Beyond the funding support, the immense experience and knowledge of the Angels will help us to learn valuable entrepreneurial lessons, grow, and be able to scale the brand rapidly and efficiently in the upcoming months and years.
“This new round of investment marks a significant stride toward our mission of emission-free delivery and our commitment to fostering a greener and healthier world.”Dilshad, Co-Founder and COO of TriGo Electric, expressed,
“In the process of doing that, TriGo Electric will continue to innovate constantly, to specializes in green mobility technology, aims to promote affordable EV adoption in the near future for better tomorrow,”further added Dilshad
About ‘Indian Angels’?
Pune-based Digikore Studios announced the launch of “Indian Angels,” which it claims is the world’s first angel investment show, launched on JioCinema. Unlike Shark Tank India, The show also extends a rare invitation to viewers to become investors themselves.
The show boasts a panel of angel investors, including Ajinkya Firodia, Managing Director of Kinetic Group; Ankit Agarwal, Founder and CEO of InsuranceDekho; Shreedha Singh, Co-founder of T.A.C – The Ayurveda Co.; Kunal Kishore, Founder and director of Value 360; Rikant Pittie, COO & Co-Founder of EaseMyTrip and Aparna Thygarajan, Co-Founder & Chief Product Officer of Shobitam.


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This is September version of “What to expect next from Nikon ?” Currently, there are a total of 7 new Nikon camera codes got registered, this means there will be at least 7 new Nikon cameras coming in 2019 to 2020. Read More »
Nikon has also registered three unannounced camera codes N1722 (First time saw this code), N1834, N1912 at Chinese MIIT. According to registered info, the N1722 and N1912 has same 5.8GHz Wi-Fi as already released Nikon Z6 & Z7 full frame mirrorless cameras. As already rumored before, the N1912 could be Nikon’s first APS-C Z-mount mirrorless camera. The N1722 could be either Nikon D6 flagship DSLR camera or Nikon Z8 high-megapixel full frame mirrorless camera. While there is still no info about N1834 (Could be upcoming Nikon D760 ?)
Recently, some fake news websites consider a Nikon design patent that could be high-end Nikon Z9 with built-in battery grip. NikonRumors exposed that this design patent is for Nikon Z6 & Z7 with a grip.
This is June version of “What to expect next from Nikon ?” Same as last month, there are a total of 5 new Nikon camera codes got registered, this means there will be at least 5 new Nikon cameras coming in 2019 to 2020. Read More »
Japanese news site Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun recently had an interview with Nikon CEO Toshikazu Umatate, they confirmed that Nikon will release a new high-end flagship Z-mount mirrorless camera which is similar as currently Nikon D5 DSLR camera (or upcoming Nikon D6). Though the release date is not available yet, maybe in 2020 to 2021.


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The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information about a November theft of guns from a Lexington, Mo., sporting goods store.
Several guns were stolen during the Nov. 29 burglary of Pat’s Army and Sporting Goods. For information leading to an arrest, the ATF is offering up to $5,000, to be matched by another $5,000 by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, a firearms trade group.
The Lexington Police Department is investigating the burglary.
Anyone with information about the case can call the ATF at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (800-283-4867) or send email to ATFTips@atf.gov.


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Good luck getting a state rebate on your new electric car
Sam Dudley of Encino knows that California government has gone all in on zero-emission vehicles. So has he. He’s all about cutting back on greenhouse gases.
In May, Dudley splurged on a new electric car, a metallic black Chevy Bolt EV LT. He loves it.
But now it’s July, and the after-school program director, 35, wonders when the state will make good on the EV incentive rebate money it owes him.
He figures he’s due $4,500. He might have to wait until next year for a check to arrive, he said a rebate program representative told him by phone. And, he was warned, he and thousands of others might not get back as much money as promised, or might not receive any money at all.
“They’re not making this easy for the everyday person who is living in California,” Dudley said.
He’s not alone. Dudley’s name sits on a rebate wait list with about 8,000 other California EV buyers.
The long delay might seem counterintuitive. California is the national champion in zero-emission vehicle promotion and air quality regulation. Much legislation has been enacted to encourage the transition to electric transportation, and many billions have been spent.
(Just how many billions is surprisingly hard to ascertain, owing to the wide dispersal of accounting data across various agencies. State Sen. Bob Wieckowski (D-Fremont) has complained that trying to find out is “an Easter egg hunt.”)
Gov. Gavin Newsom even ordered a ban on new sales of internal combustion passenger cars and trucks by 2035.
But the state rebate programs that aim to make zero-emission vehicles more affordable to Californians have been plagued over the years by erratic funding. Rebate coffers are often left empty for weeks or months at a time, forcing qualified car buyers to draw on reserves of their own patience as the state gets its funding act together.
It doesn’t help that figuring out whether a buyer’s income qualifies them for a rebate, or whether the car they want to buy is covered, becomes a complicated and time-consuming endeavor. A welter of different rebate programs with different requirements adds to the confusion.
The programs that must be evaluated: The Clean Vehicle Rebate Project. The Clean Vehicle Assistance Program. Clean Cars 4 All. (“They all sound the same,” Dudley said.) Several air quality districts also offer rebates, which come with their own rules. Electric utilities provide financial assistance for home chargers.
“How is the average person supposed to do all this?” Dudley said. Low-income potential buyers can’t afford to postpone rebates, he said: “Waiting four to six months after purchasing a new EV is untenable for many people.”
Car dealers are frustrated as well. They welcome the rebate programs, of course, but complain there’s so much customer confusion and so much red tape followed by months of delay that the hundreds of millions of tax dollars being spent aren’t as effective as they might be. (The Rebate Project has paid consumers nearly $1 billion so far.)
“The more complicated it is, and the more delays there are, the more difficult it is for consumers to navigate these programs,” said Brian Maas, president of the California New Car Dealers Assn. “You want to make it as simple and easy as possible, and you want to [pay the cash rebate] as close to point of sale as you can,” he said.
The key problem is unpredictable state funding. The Clean Vehicle Rebate Project ran out of money in April. The Assistance Program, intended to help low-income buyers purchase an EV, ran out of money in March. Applicants were put on a wait list, but a spokesperson for the state’s Air Resources Board said with funds exhausted and no new money on the way, the Assistance Program “might have to close the list.”
The Rebate Project, though, is the big kahuna. It’s financed with state general funds and by the state’s greenhouse gas reduction fund. The state Legislature depends on inherently uncertain forecasts for EV sales to decide how much money to allocate; if forecasts are too low, the money runs out. The size of the greenhouse gas fund, financed by state cap-and-trade energy permit auctions, can rise and fall like a yo-yo, causing periodic refund delays that can last for three months or more.
The new series by the L.A. Times will focus on California’s role in guiding the policy direction of the nation, and what that has meant for the state and the country
Wouldn’t an increased gasoline tax accomplish the same goal — making it more economical to buy a zero-emissions car — without all the complexity? Yes, said Denny Cullenward, an energy economist and coauthor of the book “Making Climate Policy Work.” But it’s a political nonstarter: “The last thing anyone wants to do is be the politician that sets the price of gasoline.”
A carbon tax was considered under the administration of former Gov. Jerry Brown, but didn’t draw legislative support. That’s how the state’s greenhouse cap-and-trade system came about, as a carbon tax alternative, Cullenward said. He’s a big proponent of clean-vehicle rebates and other incentives but called the current state of California’s myriad programs and the way they are administered “a nightmare.”
The new state budget signed by Newsom on July 16 provides $525 million for rebates; $100 million of that comes from the greenhouse fund. “Staff are working to finalize grant documents that would allow a portion of the allocation to be infused into the program now to cover the wait list and the remaining allocation will be added to the program once staff brings their proposal to the Board for approval this fall,” the Air Resources Board spokesperson said by email.
Potential electric car buyers who turn to the Rebate Project website see an image of a highway-style triangle warning sign and a message that says it will take “several months” before rebate money is distributed. The message also cautions that rebate “terms and conditions” might be changed by the time the money becomes available. “As a result,” it says, “there is no guarantee that you will be eligible for a rebate.”
Meanwhile, the state is evaluating the structure of its rebate programs. There could be dramatic changes in store. Or not.
A Newsom plan to issue $1 billion in government bonds would provide incentives for sales, purchases and deployment of electric vehicle charging stations. The $66 million in annual interest payments would be financed in part by extending motor vehicle fees now due to expire in 2024.
As electric cars take a bigger share of the market, state incentives might have to shift from cars and trucks to public chargers, an official with the California Energy Commission said at a state Senate budget hearing earlier this year.
Patty Monahan, the commission’s head of transportation, noted that the cost of electric vehicle batteries has fallen dramatically over the last decade — within the next few years, electric vehicle costs are expected to match internal combustion equivalents, making vehicle incentives less essential for all but the lowest-income buyers.
“Now the barrier is, ‘I live in an apartment building and I don’t have a place to charge my vehicle, so I’m not going to get a zero-emissions vehicle.’ ... We want to make sure no matter where you live you’re going to have access,” Monahan said.
The increasing popularity of electric cars — there are now about 800,000 on California roads, and electric passenger vehicles total more than 8% of the new car market — means rapidly rising costs for the state. If left in place, the rebate program costs would run to several billion dollars a year later in the decade.
The Air Resources Board is considering rebate program alternatives that range from changing income requirements for buyers to putting a ceiling on the number of rebate-qualified cars a manufacturer can sell to eliminating the rebate program altogether.
How much attention consumer confusion will get is unclear. And consumers aren’t the only ones dealing with red tape. Sellers and buyers of zero-emission trucks and buses must navigate an array of different programs in different agencies.
The state budget includes $3.9 billion to be spent on zero-emission vehicle programs over the next three years. There are 29 state agencies and sub-agencies that have a stake in that money.
State Sen. Henry Stern of Calabasas is pushing a bill that would create an executive director position that reports to the governor to coordinate those programs.
Bolt buyer Dudley wants to make clear that although he thinks he’s getting the runaround by rebate officials, “everyone I’ve talked to has been sympathetic.” It’s not the people he’s upset with, he said; it’s the system.


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“Apple is aiming to have the device available for sale by the Christmas holidays, though the release date could change,” Satariano and Lee report. “The new device, which plugs into a television set, will have a faster processor than the previous version and an upgraded interface to make it easier for customers to navigate between TV shows, movies and other online content, one person said. An agreement with Time Warner Cable would mark the first such deal with a pay-TV provider.”
Read more in the full article here.
iOS 7 builds contain references to new Apple TV hardware – February 10, 2014


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c.2013 New York Times News Service
c.2013 New York Times News Service
TOKYO — When Rakuten, Japan’s leading e-commerce company, introduced its Kobo e-reader in Japan in July 2012, the company’s chief executive, Hiroshi Mikitani, presented a gift to Yoshinobu Noma, the president of Kodansha, Japan’s largest publisher.
It was a T-shirt emblazoned with “Beat Amazon.” Mikitani wanted to signal that the two companies had no intention of slugging it out in a print-versus-digital fight in Japan.
The alliance did little to help them defend against Amazon.com. Four months later, Amazon brought its Kindle e-reader to Japan. It quickly became Japan’s top-selling e-reader, gaining 38.3 percent of the market, according to the MM Research Institute, a data firm in Tokyo. Even though Rakuten’s Kobo had beaten Kindle to market by nearly five months, it grabbed only 33 percent of Japan’s e-reader sales during the same 12-month period. Sony, which had stated its goal of selling half of all e-readers by 2012, managed to hold only 25.5 percent with its devices.
Amazon sells its Kindle in 14 countries, Japan being the very latest. Misao Konishi, an Amazon spokeswoman, declined to talk about the company’s goals for the Japanese market, but she did offer some insight into Amazon’s ambitions. “Every book ever printed, in every language, available to buy in 60 seconds,” Konishi said. “There are many things to accomplish in order to achieve that vision in Japan.”
The Kindle’s quick success is a stark contrast to the Japanese companies’ efforts. Until Amazon showed up, e-readers failed to live up to expectations. Sony brought out the first reader using E Ink technology in Japan in 2004, the LIBRIe.
Buyers of the LIBRIe, which like early Kindles showed black text on a white background, suffered from a convoluted marketplace that allowed them only to rent e-books, not buy them. Amazon, which developed its Kindle with digital books people could buy from — where else? — Amazon.com, found instant success after its introduction in the United States in 2007.
Sony stopped selling its device that year. The company’s subsequent e-readers, even after Sony developed a library of books to buy, have met with limited success.
Japan isn’t a big contributor to global e-reader sales, estimated at around 19.9 million units by IDC, a market research firm. MM Research said that a total of 470,000 devices were sold there last year, and that it expected sales to climb about 10 percent to 520,000 units in 2014.
Amazon’s victory over Sony and Rakuten, which got into the e-reader business when it bought the Toronto-based Kobo in November 2011, began with aggressive pricing. Amazon sold the Kindle Paperwhite, a color-screen tablet, for 7,980 yen, or about $80. Not only was its price about $40 less than it was in the United States, it also matched that of Rakuten’s Kobo and Sony’s PRS-T2, both color-screen tablets.
In a bid to gain market share, Rakuten dropped the price of its e-reader in July to to 5,480 yen, and will continue to focus on this basic model, even as the company launches the new high-end Kobo Aura HD in Europe and the United States in September.
But Amazon wasn’t winning just because of price. It also gave consumers another reason to prefer the Kindle. “The reason for the Kindle’s success in Japan is the same as it was in America,” said Munechika Nishida, author of “The Truth About the E-book Revolution” and a technology analyst. “The Amazon Web store is the easiest to use, the easiest to understand.”
Sony and Rakuten’s e-readers are not technologically inferior to the Kindle, Nishida said, but buying e-books on the Kindle marketplace takes fewer steps. Rakuten and Sony’s devices make browsing and purchasing more difficult, he said.
(BEGIN OPTIONAL TRIM.)
The Japan Kindle store, which opened last October, offers more than 140,000 Japanese-language titles. It added 7,000 more titles in just the last 30 days. Kodansha now has 10,617 e-book titles available on the Kindle marketplace.
The Kobo store advertises more than 130,000 e-books, but its limited search capabilities make browsing that inventory difficult. The Sony marketplace offers more than 108,000 Japanese-language titles.
Before the Kindle’s arrival, both Kobo and Sony’s marketplaces each offered fewer than 80,000 e-book titles. Without a popular marketplace, Rakuten and Sony failed to convince the top two Japanese publishers, Kodansha and Shogakukan, of the profit-generating potential in e-books. Digitalization of their titles proceeded slowly.
Amazon, however, had experience in the United States selling e-books and brought that experience to Japan. That made all the difference for fence-sitting publishers experiencing dwindling profits.
Sales of books and magazines in Japan declined 3.6 percent in 2012, according to the Research Institute for Publications, the eighth consecutive year of declining sales. E-book and e-magazine sales, however, increased by an estimated 18 percent, and the growth potential for e-publishing in Japan is expected to increase following proposed copyright law reforms announced last month by the Agency for Cultural Affairs. The changes, aimed at combating piracy and developing the e-book industry in Japan, are on the agenda for next year’s Parliament session.
Nao Takada, a 26-year-old employee of the Japan Automobile Federation, was visiting a Tokyo bookstore, but she, like readers in other parts of the world, may be buying less there. She said she bought the Kindle Paperwhite because it was small and easy to carry, and added that she liked the ease with which she could browse purchases.
“I still go to regular bookstores,” Takada said, “but a lot of times I just browse, find something to buy, then go home and download it on Amazon.”
(END OPTIONAL TRIM.)
In Tokyo’s Jimbocho neighborhood, famous for more than 100 years for its used and specialty bookshops, Hiroshi Kobayashi of Komiyama Books said customers sometimes used their smartphones to snap photos of books they planned to download later. Still, he said that he didn’t consider the Kindle a threat to his livelihood — yet.
“Eventually, they’ll begin making electronic versions of these older, rare books,” Kobayashi said. “Then I’ll have something to worry about.”


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More than 1,600 jobs are expected to be created in Leeds and Bradford over the next year as a result of £1.5m of government ‘connection voucher’ grants awarded to more than 800 small businesses in the two cities since February.
The funding covers the costs of installing high-speed internet connectivity, as part of the Superconnected Cities programme.
Leeds and Bradford have experienced the UK’s highest take-up rates outside London for the vouchers, which are worth up to £3,000 to each business.
According to SMEs that have signed up for the scheme, each business that has gained access to super-fast internet services expects to create an average of 2.1 new jobs over the following 12 months as a result of the faster web infrastructure, with turnover predicted to rise by an average of £148,000.
News that the Super Connected Cities programme has been extended beyond the original cut-off point of March 2015 has been welcomed by council chiefs in Leeds and Bradford. The announcement, made as part of the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, will allow funding continue until March 2016, with an additional £40m available nationally.
Richard Lewis, Leeds City Council’s executive member for transport and the economy, said: “We are seeing escalating application rates for the vouchers as word spreads about just how transformational the step up to high-speed internet can be for smaller businesses.
“That’s having a knock-on positive economic impact as companies maximise their potential to become more productive and efficient.”
You can read more about the Super Connected Cities Scheme here.


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TV anime coming this fall
Announced at the annual Industry Panel at Anime Expo 2016, Funimation revealed that they have acquired exclusive international rights to home entertainment, video on demand and broadcast distribution for Drifters, the new anime based on the manga by Hellsing creator Kouta Hirano. Before the fall premiere of the TV anime a special edition of the manga's fifth volume, out on June 6, presented with a 36-minute version of the first two episodes, and Funimation has shared an English subtitled version of the five-minute preview.
From the creator and team behind Hellsing, comes a thrilling story where history and fantasy collide!
Streaming October 2016 on FunimationNow!
Based off the manga published by Dark Horse Comics that has sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide in five different languages. Nominated for the 4th and 5th Manga Taisho Awards in Japan, an honor shared with huge hit series such as My Hero Academia, Attack on Titan, Assassination Classroom, and One Punch Man.
Jojo's Bizarre Adventure/Stardust Crusaders series director Kenichi Suzuki helms the production with Hideyuki Kurata (Grisaia, Maria the Virgin Witch, Nanana, The World Only God Knows) and Yousuke Yuroda (High School of the Dead, Gundam 00) writing series composition.
Shimazu Toyohisa - Yūichi Nakamura
Oda Nobunaga - Naoya Uchida
Nasu no Yoichi - Mitsuki Saiga
Hannibal: Yutaka Aoyama
Scipio: Hiroshi Yanaka
Jeanne d'Arc: Junko Minagawa
Gilles de Rais: Kenji Nomura
Anastasia: Junko Kitanishi
Rasputin: Masahiko Tanakai
Toshizo Hijikata: Hiroki Yasumoto
Black King: Taiten Kusunoki
Abe no Seimei - Takahiro Sakura
Olminu -Shiho Kokido
Ham - Masakazu Nishida
Plus, the folks pulling the string
Murasaki: Mitsuru Miyamoto
EASY: Kanae Ito
Staff listing includes
Director: Kenichi Suzuki
Series Composition: Hideyuki Kurata
Screenplay: Yousuke Kuroda, Hideyuki Kurata
Character Design & Chief Animation Director: Ryouji Nakamori
Setting Research: Seiichi Shirato
Art Director: Ken'ichi Tatefuji
CG Producer: Garyo Tanaka
CG Director: Tomohisa Takae
Color Key: Haruko Nobori
Sound Director: Yota Tsuruoka
Letter Design: Setta
Editing: Kiyoshi Hirose
The manga is released in North America by Dark Horse.


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Serving up a helping of kindness
Along with serving pasta and seafood, Pierro's Italian Bistro in Traemoor Shopping Center is serving as host for a local coat collection drive.
After Christmas, General Manager Brian Graybill initiated a coat and blanket drive at the neighborhood restaurant.
"It just kind of came to me," he said. "I got a new coat for Christmas and I put it in my coat closet and I shifted like six or seven coats backward and I was like, 'Why do I have this many coats?'"
Besides coats, he also took a look at how many extra hats, blankets and other cold weather accessories he and his family had accumulated over the years. He decided that holding a coat drive could help do more than just free up his closet space for his family.
"As a local business, we can help support the people around us,'' he said. "It just seemed like a good idea.''
Pierro's is serving as a collection site for new and gently used coats, blankets, and cold weather accessories as part of the restaurant's winter coat drive. Graybill plans to donate the cold weather gear to a local nonprofit agency, such as Hope Mills' Alms House.
With the help of Pierro's generous patrons and several of the restaurant's regular customers and staff, over 60 coats were donated to the coat drive within the first week.
"It's nice to see that the people around here are just generally generous people," Graybill said. "That's the nice thing about being out here, its very 'neighbor- hoody.'"
While enjoying a drink at the bar, some of the restaurant's regular patrons took a look at the overflowing bin of collected coats, ready to be worn this winter by people who truly need them.
"I think this is a great way to give those items to people who do need them, especially with something like coats." Michelle Bologa said. "I think it's great. For Pierro's to do it, it's very thoughtful."
"There are not a lot of places around Fayetteville that really does this, so it's pretty cool," Kaitlyn Henley said. "I think this can show other businesses, to do things like this and help the community."
After seeing the collection bin, both women said they planned to make a donation toward the coat drive.
"This kind of motivates you to clean out your closet," Henley said. "It's just easy."
While busy planning a new brunch menu for the restaurant, Graybill still takes time to thank each person who donates to the collection drive.
"The fact that we already have that many coats in there, it's exciting," he said. "I honestly didn't expect this."
As an extra incentive for helping to give back, the restaurant is giving a 10 percent discount to all customers who donate to the coat drive. Graybill said he plans to host the coat drive until the end of winter.
"The reaction that people have given us, I am already thinking what we can do to help in the springtime and the summer," he said. "The people out here are willing to help."
Graybill hopes the community not only donates to the coat drive this winter, but also keeps the idea of giving back going.
"When you do this in a local setting, things like this incite other people to do things," he said. "Who knows what somebody else might do in the future?"


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Nope, it’s not a post by Happy77 this time – for the first time since late January, Billybob has made a post on the Club Penguin Blog! As you may recall, several days ago I made a new post with some unreleased Puffle Hats. Some (Knight Helmet and Wizard Hat) are not pictured. These hats will be in the upcoming Series 12 Puffle Plushes, coming very soon to North America, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Here is a sneak peek image that was given to us:
Each plush unlocks the following:
- Puffle Hat
- 1 Treasure Book item
- 1500 Coins
I wonder how soon it will be until Billybob makes another new post on the Club Penguin Blog? After all, a little over a week ago it was said on Club Penguin’s YouTube channel that next week he would be making a post about the Arctic White colour, and that has not yet been done.
The following page has been updated:


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Following a nearly two-year international investigation involving U.S. law enforcement and authorities in Germany and the Netherlands, federal prosecutors have charged three German nationals with being the administrators of Wall Street Market (WSM), which was one of the world’s largest dark web marketplaces that allowed vendors to sell a wide variety of contraband, including an array of illegal narcotics, counterfeit goods and malicious computer hacking software.
A criminal complaint filed May 1 in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles alleges that the three defendants, who currently are in custody in Germany, were the administrators of WSM, a sophisticated online marketplace available in six languages that allowed approximately 5,400 vendors to sell illegal goods to about 1.15 million customers around the world. Like other dark web marketplaces previously shut down by authorities – Silk Road and AlphaBay, for example – WSM functioned like a conventional e-commerce website, but it was a hidden service located beyond the reach of traditional internet browsers on the Tor network, a service designed to conceal user identities.
For nearly three years, WSM allegedly was operated on the dark web by the three men who now face charges in both the United States and Germany. An “exit scam” was allegedly conducted in April when the WSM administrators took all of the virtual currency held in marketplace escrow and user accounts – believed by investigators to be approximately $11 million – and then diverted the money to their own accounts. Exit scams are common among large darknet marketplaces, which typically hold money in escrow while a vendor delivers illicit goods.
The three defendants charged in the United States were arrested in Germany on April 23 and 24. They are a 23-year-old resident of Kleve, Germany; a 31-year-old resident of Wurzburg, Germany; and a 29-year-old resident of Stuttgart, Germany. These defendants also face charges in Germany.
A fourth defendant linked to Wall Street Market was charged in a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Sacramento, California. Marcos Paulo De Oliveira-Annibale, 29, of Sao Paulo, Brazil, also faces federal drug distribution and money laundering charges for allegedly acting as a moderator who, among other things, mediated disputes between vendors and their customers. Annibale, who used the online monikers “MED3LIN,” also acted as a public relations representative for WSM by, among others things, promoting WSM on websites such as Reddit, according to the complaint. The case naming Annibale was unsealed when Brazilian authorities executed a search warrant at his residence.
The defendants are accused of operating a sophisticated online marketplace that offered encrypted communications between buyers and sellers, as well as an online forum to discuss vendors and the quality of their wares. The international investigation was able to identify the three administrators of WSM, show how they previously operated another German-based darknet marketplace that shut down in 2016, and link them to computer servers in Germany and the Netherlands that were used to operate WSM and process virtual currency transactions.
The three defendants allegedly created WSM, maintained the website, and operated the marketplace to ensure that buyers could access vendor pages and that financial transactions were properly processed. The investigation outlined in the complaint affidavit linked the three defendants to WSM in a number of ways, including their access to the WSM computer infrastructure. One defendant, for example, used virtual private networks to access WSM computers, but when a VPN connection would fail, his IP was revealed and authorities were able to identify his specific location.
The three defendants charged in the Central District of California were arrested in Germany after the WSM administrators conducted an exit scam in the wake of WSM recently becoming regarded as the world’s pre-eminent dark web marketplace and gaining a significant influx of new vendors and users, according to the affidavit. On April 16, vendors realized they could not collect the virtual funds that had been placed in escrow by their customers, which prompted German authorities to execute a series of arrest and search warrants.
The complaint affidavit identifies several cases that have been filed in the United States against WSM vendors. One darknet vendor who advertised on WSM is currently serving a 12-year federal prison sentence after being convicted in the Western District of Wisconsin for distributing a fentanyl analogue resulting in the overdose death of a Florida resident who ordered a nasal spray laced with the powerful opioid from the vendor.
Two of the “top vendors” on WSM – identified by the online monikers Platinum45 and Ladyskywalker – were based in the Los Angeles area and were major drug distributors. One of these, “Ladyskywalker,” operated on several darknet marketplaces, where the individual advertised and sold opioids such as fentanyl, oxycodone and hydrocodone.
The second top vendor – who used the moniker “Platinum45” and operated on at least two darknet marketplaces, including WSM – advertised and sold drugs such as methamphetamine, Adderall and oxycodone to customers in the United States and around the world, including in Germany and Australia. “Platinum45” also manufactured Adderall tablets and advertised the sale of up to 1 kilogram quantities of methamphetamine on WSM.
Meanwhile, authorities and law enforcement on Europe also took down The Silkkitie (known as the Valhalla Marketplace) and its contents. The Silkkitie was seized by Finnish Customs in close cooperation with the French National Police.
The Silkkitie has been operating on the The Onion Router (Tor) network since 2013. Based on the findings of the investigation, Finnish Customs also made a significant Bitcoin seizure. For several years, narcotics and other illicit goods have been sold via this marketplace. The Silkkitie is one of the oldest and internationally best-known Tor trade sites. After the site was shut down by the authorities, some of the Finnish narcotics traders moved their activities to other illegal trade sites in the Tor network, such as Wall Street Market, only for this site to also be thwarted by the authorities.


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September is Tourism Month and the countdown to the Sho’t Left Travel Week has begun.
In a bid to promote domestic travel of our beautifully diverse and vibrant country, South African Tourism will for the first time host the Sho’t Left Travel Week, a groundbreaking initiative that will see a number of trade partners, airlines, hotel groups and tour operators offering generous discounts during the week starting 24 to 30 September 2018.
Aimed at encouraging South Africans to travel and explore their own back yard, all South Africans will be able to buy discounted local deals and packages for one week only.
“South Africans have told us that affordability is a big factor when they consider travelling in and around our beautiful country,” says South African Tourism Chief Executive Officer, Sisa Ntshona. "The Sho’t Left Travel Week is a response to this and it is about giving ALL South Africans access to the length and breadth of South Africa’s tourism offering. And we are doing this in a much bigger way than we have ever done before."
Under its distinct campaign positioning: Everything Must Go, Everyone Must Go, Sho’t Left Travel Week is a robust and aggressive response that seeks to showcase that travel accessible and affordable for all South Africans.


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Foot Locker AR-Powered Scavenger Hunt
Foot Locker leveraged AR in its mobile app to run a scavenger hunt around the start of the NBA season that rewards shoppers with a first chance at exclusive buys. In honor of the Los Angeles Lakers’ home opener and LeBron James’ debut with the team, consumers who completed the AR-powered scavenger hunt unlocked the chance to buy the LeBron 16 King “Court Purple” shoe. The game is being called “The Hunt” and will continue throughout the season. The game has users unlock geo-targeted, AR clues within the app that ultimately lead them to being able to buy a specialty pair of shoes. Agency Firstborn, New York, created the game for the footwear retailer.


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Fusion announced today that Telecom Consulting Group (TCG), representing more than 4,000 agents nationwide, has reinstated their support of Fusion by signing Fusion’s new Partner Agreement. The new agreements were designed to render it easier for partners to profit from sales of Fusion’s solutions, including UCaaS, SD-WAN, managed network services and security, and standardizes terms across legacy Fusion contracts while securing commission payments to TCG and its selling partners, explained the company.
Recognizing the channel’s critical importance to its future success, Fusion has made advances in its channel programs a top priority among its planned initiatives following its emergence, expected by the end of this year. In early January, Fusion will recognize its partners for their support throughout the process with a revitalized Fusion Partner Program that will offer stronger service and support as well as increased incentives for sales of Fusion’s advanced, fully integrated solutions portfolio, explained the company.
“Fusion has been an outstanding carrier partner with TCG, and we’re looking forward to their emergence in the near future. Throughout this process, it’s been business as usual and we’ve been fully informed, every step along the way. We can’t wait to see what the future holds,” said Dan Pirigyi, a Partner with TCG.
“Fusion values TCG and its selling partners for their continued support and confidence in us. We are highly aware that the channel is pivotal to our success and we continue to stay committed to our partners,” said Michael Fair, SVP of Fusion’s Channels and Alliances.


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Complying with the departure of several high profile figures in quick succession and records of Sony starting to understate the Japanese market, it was recently verified by Sony that SIE Japan Studio was being relaxed as a growth studio. Now, the increase is continuing, with more programmers either being released or carrying on.
Moore verified lately via his Twitter page that after over two years at Sony, he is now moving on.
Moore had gone to SIE Japan Workshop since 2003, where he serviced the Siren collection, was the creative director on Puppeteer, and most recently, on Demon’s Hearts Before that, he spent 6 years at SIE London Workshop, where he serviced the PS2 open globe shooter The Escape
After 24 years at Sony as well as 18 of those in Japan, the other day was my last day at #JAPANStudio. I will miss the wonderful creative spirit and also sociability of the studio that was a huge component of my life. Time to seek new and exciting chances !! pic.twitter.com/XOW0XytYd4
— gavin moore (@GavinmGavin) April 1, 2021


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The store in Hillsborough is scheduled to open November 19th dependent on final inspection approvals.
The Grand Opening is scheduled on 12/10 after the ribbon cutting at 9 am
More Grand Opening details will follow after we get the store opened.
The online Specialty Lottery list closed on 10/31
Drawing will be held on 12/6 and all calls-emails will go out the same day
Welcome to the
Orange County ABC
Please visit our completely remodeled store in Carrboro Plaza
106 Hwy 54 Carrboro NC 27510
With decades of combined experience, our managers and store team members are comprised of aficionados, former bartenders, chefs, and those with a vast knowledge and love of the spirits industry.


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The COVID-19 crisis is impacting every industry in various ways. For instance, the eCommerce industry is probably experiencing a tremendous upswing in traffic. Similarly, when self-isolation and social distancing were made mandatory; the search traffic and impressions for terms such as ‘non-perishable food’ grew manifold.
Impact of COVID-19 on Digital Marketing – Measures to Mitigate
Listed below are a few ways COVID-19 has impacted digital marketing; as well as the measures to mitigate the impact:
- Demand for essential services and groceries has increased – organizations that are into eCommerce should concentrate on popular keywords related to essential services and fast moving consumer goods (FMCG).
- People are more searching for health and wellness tips. org that are into the health and wellness industry should concentrate on SEO and paid promotions. They can conduct online events for wellness and yoga sessions.
- More demand for news portals, video streaming, and ebooks – organizations should change their content strategy for catering to the needs of the people who are quarantined.
- The training industry is becoming online and concentrating on virtual classes.
- Conduct a mini-audit of your content assets by creating a Google sheet to list each content type on individual tabs, like webpages, blog posts, emails, ebooks, whitepapers, videos, presentations, infographics; and so on. You can then update with fresh content, optimize with new keywords and calls-to-action (CTAs), and re-promote when business picks up again later.
- Develop an appropriate outreach strategy in which you can offer reassurance or tangible assistance during COVID-19.
Doors and wall openings brand Tata Pravesh has rolled out a new digital campaign to address the issue of the ongoing coronavirus crisis. Titled ‘ShutOutCorona’, the campaign accentuates the need for staying indoors. It is being broadcast across the brand’s social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Tata Pravesh Rolls Out ‘ShutOutCorona’ Campaign
Conceptualized by Wunderman Thompson, ‘ShutOutCorona’ campaign displays an assortment of doors being shut, barred, bolted or latched; along with the sign of which conveys the message that roads to fight coronavirus can open up only through a closed door. It promotes self-isolation as the means to keep this crisis in check. The campaign prompts people to seriously consider quarantine as one of the measures for attempting to beat the disease.
Tata Pravesh is a new brand in Tata Steel’s profile. It offers a wide variety of complete home solutions; including sturdy and impressive steel doors, windows, as well as ventilators; with wooden trim. All these solutions are factory-engineered and they come with a combination of the strength of steel and the smoothness of the wood. They are uniform in finish and quality, long-lasting, highly durable and highly secure. Also, they are supremely resistant to fire and other hazards associated with wooden doors.


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CafePress, an online retailer that sells customized T-shirts, mugs, wall clocks, calendars and other products was in news last year for failing to protect sensitive details of its customers in a data breach that occurred in Feb 2019 and that includes 23 million unique email addresses, physical addresses, contact numbers, passwords, credit card details and social security & tax numbers stored in an unencrypted form on the database.
As the company completely failed to protect the information of its customers, the Attorney General William Tong announced that the online retailer will pay a $2 million as settlement out of which $750,000 will be divided amongst the states, of which those living in Kentucky is said to receive $64,168
The announced amount is the penalty amount to be paid by CafePress to different states as it failed to secure information related to millions of its customers, including many in Kentucky.
The company will also revamp its Cybersecurity measures to create incident response plan, data breach notifications, containment and recovery provisions along with threat monitoring solutions.
CafePress will also implement certain data protection standards like encryption and 2FA and will involve penetration testing, logging and monitoring risks, password management and data minimization measures to protect its customers’ information from hackers. A free 2 year credit monitoring service was offered by the retailer to those whose social security numbers were compromised in the incident that was disclosed in Sept’19.
Note –In September 2020, Snapfish owned CafePress has been acquired by PlanetArt.


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Norwich City is delighted to renew its partnership with longstanding supporters Jarrold to help celebrate the opening of their new flagship sports store, Jarrold Intersport.
This is the first mainland UK concept store from Intersport Europe and has been designed specifically for the Norwich-based franchise.
The new modern shopfit celebrates Jarrold’s heritage as a ‘serious about sport’ retailer, with particular focus on footwear, while offering an excellent choice in clothing and equipment, as well as outstanding service.
And on Wednesday, City stars Moritz Leitner and Tom Trybull were welcomed into the store to meet fans and sign autographs.
Michelle Jarrold, development director for Jarrold said: “I am thrilled that we are re-establishing a partnership with Norwich City Football Club at a time when we have launched Jarrold Intersport, our exciting new sports concept store in Norwich.
“Norwich City Football Club and Jarrold are two of the best-known businesses in the city and we are looking forward to working together.”
The main Jarrold store sits conveniently next door, with recent investments in the expanded Deli, wine bar and the new Exchange restaurant, as well as the constantly evolving array of sought-after brands and carefully selected, often exclusive lines, ensures that Jarrold offer the best one-stop shopping solution in East Anglia.
Norwich City Chief Operating Officer Ben Kensell added: “We’re delighted to be back in partnership with an historic Norwich institution like Jarrold.
“Much like the Club, Jarrold has been at the forefront of the Norwich community for decades, and we really look forward to working closely with Michelle Jarrold and her team on a variety of initiatives in the future.”
Photo courtesy of Simon Buck.


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5 Simple Statements About Parrot Drones Explained in Erie PA 16510
com. At this time, Alltel reward playing cards needs to be redeemed at a retail location. Stop by our retail outlet locator to find a retailer near you.
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The Design Museum will go very pink next year as it has announced that it will have an entire exhibition devoted to the pink lady – Barbie.
The exhibition, which in no way is jumping on the movie bandwagon as they were keen to note it’s been under preparation for three years, will be opening to coincide with the 65th anniversary of the Barbie brand. However, having a Barbie movie that grossed over $1.4 billion at the box office won’t hurt ticket sales for the museum exhibition.
The Design Museum says that it has been granted special access to Mattel’s Barbie archives in California, and dozens of rare and unique items will go on show alongside other key loans and acquisitions to tell the story of the plastic brand over the past six-and-a-half decades.
The Design Museum Curator Danielle Thom will curate the exhibition and will map the Barbie legacy that started in 1959 when Ruth Handler wanted to craft a different narrative for her daughter, Barbara. It will go on to explore the story of Barbie through a design lens, including fashion, architecture, furniture and vehicle design.
Tim Marlow, Director and CEO of the Design Museum, said: “Barbie is one of the most recognisable brands on the planet and as we’ve seen recently, her story evolves with each new generation. I am delighted that we can announce that we’re planning to mark Barbie’s 65th birthday with a major exhibition, and I want to thank Mattel for collaborating with us through their extensive archive to help us tell this story. We look forward next year to displaying a whole range of eye-catching objects, some familiar but many never seen before, to showcase the evolution of design across the decades of Barbie’s world.”
The exhibition will open at the Design Museum in July 2024 and will run until February 2025.
Tickets will go on sale next spring.
This article was published on ianVisits
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Chevrolet India is to launch at least five new models in India by 2017, one is the premium SUV Trailblazer, other two are the Spin and the Spin Activ (likely to be named as Essentia and Ultiva), new-generation Spark and the new-generation Cruze. However, there is a possibility of seeing a sixth new product by 2018, which will be the Honda City competitor.
The Cruze segment has slowed down as most of the car buyers in this price bracket are preferring SUVs, and that is one reason Chevrolet might want to get the City competition sedan. The sedan will be a global sedan and will be sold in most of the GM markets just like the Beat and the Cruze.
Chevrolet has commenced testing for this sedan and it is likely to make a global unveiling by the end of 2016. This will be placed below the Cruze and will be made available in India with a turbo petrol and diesel engine. Chevrolet will be moving its production from its Indonesian and Halol, Gujarat plant to Talegaon, Maharashtra.
Our sources close to the plant state that the American automaker will be adding a lot more products to its portfolio in the coming years. The Sail-family hasn’t managed to achieve the success that the company had expected and this has increased their losses.


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- Not as many people are flocking to EV showrooms as we thought
- Americans are choosing to keep their gas-powered cars as they last longer and EVs are still relatively expensive
- While we will see a much larger percentage of EVs on our roads over the next decade, it’ll likely take until at least 2050 before most gas-powered cars are off the road
The truth of the matter is this—the car world is not quite progressing as the electric vehicle (EV) protagonists had expected. People are just not flocking to EV showrooms as we thought. Americans are keeping their gas-powered vehicles longer than ever — good news for repair shops, but not such good news for those expecting a rapid switch from gas-powered cars to EVs.
The longer people hold onto their internal-combustion cars, the longer it will take to replace those vehicles with the latest state-of-the-art EVs.
The average age of a passenger vehicle on the road in the U.S. is currently at an all-time high of 12.5 years, up three months from last year, according to an S&P Global Mobility survey. Two decades ago, their average age was 9.7 years.
The reason for this 3-year extension? Sticker prices for new cars are rising, and existing vehicles are lasting longer, giving owners multiple reasons to keep their cars. Long gone are the days when your car was scrappable if the odometer hit 100,000 miles. Today, a car lasting over 200,000 miles is not uncommon. Parts may last longer now too, but vehicles will still need regular maintenance and replacement components as they age.
The aftermarket industry revenue is expected to grow at least 5% in 2023 after climbing 8.5% in 2022, according to a forecast by S&P, the Auto Care Association, and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers.
According to the above surveys, April’s average new vehicle transaction price was $48,275, up 3.7% from that of last year, partly because of the popularity of more expensive trucks and SUVs. “The prices are astronomical,” laments S&P’s Todd Campau. If current owners don’t need a new car, then they won’t buy one, he says.
This state of affairs basically translates to the fact that the transition from gas to electric cars will take decades. While we will see a much larger percentage of EVs on our roads over the next decade, it’ll likely take until at least 2050 — and possibly longer — before most gas-powered cars are off the road, Campau says.
Interestingly, however, EV longevity is going in the opposite direction. The average age of an EV fell from 3.7 years in 2022 to 3.6 years in 2023, in part due to an uptick in new purchases.
About 6.6% of battery-powered EVs bought between 2013-2022 have left the roads, compared with 5.2% of non-EVs — but Campau says it’s too early to know why.
Evidence from S&P and Auto Care suggests that EVs generally come with an 8-year, 100,000-mile warranty — but early results show they last longer than that, according to an analysis by Recurrent, which tracks battery data.
Carmakers purport that EVs should last between 15 to 20 years, though modern EVs, which started with the first mass-produced Nissan Leaf in 2011, haven’t been around long enough to validate that claim.
While EVs run cleaner than their gas-powered rivals, there’s a human and environmental cost attached to mining materials such as lithium, zinc and cobalt used for battery production, and building new cars. That’s why there’s a strong argument for motorists to squeeze as much life as possible out of their current vehicles before making the switch to EVs.
In America, passenger car popularity is dying while SUV and truck fans are growing rapidly. In fact, by 2028, it is estimated that at least 7 in 10 vehicles on the road will be pickups, SUVs or crossovers. And most motorists are choosing to keep their current vehicle. Yes, the future may be electric, but the gas-powered past will be with us for at least another decade, or two.


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Insurance runs on data, and electric cars have a lot of it. One firm in the UK is giving Tesla drivers cheaper insurance by tapping into the car’s systems to track driver mileage.
This could expand into other telematics, offering drivers better rates in exchange for more snooping.
Subscribe to Electrek on YouTube for exclusive videos and subscribe to the podcast.
The post Your Tesla could help you get cheaper insurance through data appeared first on Electrek.


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Is it a case of being crazy . . . or crazy like a fox?
The car industry – well, about a third of it so far (Ford, Honda, BMW, VW and Mercedes) wants to be forced to make cars that average close to 50 miles-per-gallon by 2025, as fatwa'd about four years ago by the federal regulatory apparat.
The current head of the federal government – President Trump – is trying to rescind the fatwa or at least dial it back to something more technically and economically feasible. In a startling turnabout, the car companies have stated that even if Trump dials back the federal fatwa, they will impose it upon themselves by embracing a mirrored fatwaissued by the state of California. Which will then become a de facto national fatwa.


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XPO Logistics Drinks drivers and warehouse staff are being balloted over potential industrial action following a 1.4% pay rise offer.
Staff have been asked by workers union Unite to vote regarding strike action against the business, which has its 1,000 employees and runs 26 sites across the UK that supply major brands such as Heineken to pubs and other premises, between today (28 July) and 9 August.
Unite has been pushing for staff to get 3.9% more pay instead, as employees reportedly went without a pay rise in 2020 and missed out on up to £10,000 in wages due to furlough and a lack of overtime.
The union’s national officer for the drinks industry Joe Clarke explained that members have suffered “great financial hardship” during the pandemic, with the union calling upon the employer to engage in meaningful negotiations regarding a “decent” pay increase for members that is not below the current RPI inflation rate of 3.9%.
“The [employer] has responded by offering a paltry 1.4%, meanwhile the drivers and warehouse staff are working flat out currently to meet the high demand for beer volumes in our pubs as society reopens. However, a beer drought could result if our members vote for industrial action, because they make 40% of the beer deliveries in the country. This disruption would be on top of the pingdemic that is already hitting the sector,” he said.
Unite has also accused the organisation of putting members at risk after stopping Covid-19 (Coronavirus) secure cleaning processes at a time when infections are rising.
An XPO spokesperson added that the business favours dialogue in all negotiations and it remains open for further conversations to seek agreement in a hospitality sector that is starting to come out of the lockdown’s impact.
“Protecting our employees is our number one priority. We’re working closely with the local authorities and adhering to all local and Public Health England guidance to ensure the appropriate health and safety measures are in place,” the spokesperson said.


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Whitbread, the UK’s biggest hospitality company, is extending its nationwide solar panels programme to a further 70 Premier Inn hotels, cementing the hotel chain’s position as a leader in sustainability and energy efficiency.
It is believed that following the latest installations, Premier Inn will have more sites with solar panels than any other hotel chain in the UK.
All the installations are being designed and managed by renewables developer, Anesco, with all works expected to be complete by the autumn.
The project comes on the back of a previous scheme, which saw Anesco installing solar panels on 88 Premier Inn hotels, between 2013-2015. The latest programme will see this portfolio extended, with up to 70 more sites fitted with solar PV panels.
The new installations will have a combined capacity of over 1.6MW. They will raise the total installed solar capacity on Premier Inn sites to over 3MW – which is equivalent to the energy needed to power around 2.9million* washing machine cycles – with panels fitted on over 20% of the chain’s hotels.
The entire solar portfolio will be monitored by Anesco’s in-house O&M service, AnescoMeter, which ensures the panels continue to operate at their optimum capacity.
Whitbread Director of Sustainability, James Pitcher, said: “Solar technology is a key part of our sustainability programme and helps ensure we always act as a force for good. As a long-term investment, solar is a fantastic proposition for us.
“We have seen from our previous work with Anesco that the technology is a great fit for us and with this project, we are further demonstrating our commitment to sustainable, environmentally-aware working practices.”
Steve Shine, Executive Chairman of Anesco, said: “We have been working with Whitbread since 2012 and are delighted to once again be putting our experience and technical expertise to use, to deliver this solar programme from design to installation through to operation and maintenance. Each scheme will be bespoke and designed so the maximum level of renewable energy is generated.”
Steve added: “What this project proves is that despite cuts to the feed in tariffs, solar is still a viable option for businesses. There continues to be a growing appetite among commercial organisations, for energy efficiency and renewable technologies, as a tried-and-tested model for reducing energy costs, while improving sustainability and lowering emissions.”
In 2017, Anesco’s solar farm portfolio exceeded a landmark 101 sites, while the company’s O&M service, AnescoMeter, is monitoring over 21,500 sites. As the UK market leader for utility scale energy storage, Anesco is on track to more than quadruple its operational battery portfolio by 2020, as its order book swells to 380MW.


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Yesterday a new long-term brand partnership between CRUZ Vodka and Moozlie was announced and celebrated. This relationship had apparently been years in the making with Moozlie as a loyal friend of CRUZ, becoming a staple on the brand’s exclusive, star-studded SA Fashion Week party guest list. And in an effort to clear the runway and lead the femme-powerment movement, Moozlie is said to be undoubtedly well-equipped to build a culture around the CRUZ brand that is as rich, as dynamic, and as empowering as the vodka the brand makes.
“This is like a full-circle moment for me. A seed planted over many years has finally blossomed. Cruz Vodka is one of the most forward-thinking brands I’ve ever worked with. From what the team has been able to achieve with AKA to all the exciting things we’ve got planned with Manhattan Blossom, I appreciate that this brand respects the influence & creative genius artists bring to the table. I have no doubt this will lead to more music, more good times, more milestones & more success for the whole team.” – Moozlie
Deemed a brand partner, Moozlie will work with the CRUZ brand team to represent and build CRUZ Manhattan Blossom. The terms of the agreement are set for a long-term business relationship with MOOZLIE set to earn her share in the vodka’s profit split per bottle sold throughout Africa – a rare deal in the South African spirit beverage industry. The essence of this partnership celebrates a modern-day take on carpe diem, seizing the day & living life in full bloom, – a motto Moozlie has adopted as her own. Moozlie explains: “For me, it’s about not allowing your situation or circumstances to box you. It’s important now, more than ever before, to live life boldly & proudly.”
“We’re honoured to have Moozlie leading the way both for our brand and for those who will follow the agenda. Celebrating a time of transition from one of the worst Winters we’ve seen – that has little to do with the weather – we look forward to a Spring that poses ample opportunity for positive momentum. May this partnership lead the way for a new season, a new rule, and a new partnership set to Blossom,” stated Cruz Vodka’s Brand Manager, Kayla Hendricks.


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There are many unexpected ways to cut down expenses around your home and office, but is switching to LED lighting one of them? We certainly think so.
Not only are LED lights significantly more cost-effective than traditional CFLs, but they also improve productivity through better light quality, reducing eye strain and providing you with a more unobstructed view. Also, there are government incentives to reducing your environmental impact and carbon footprint. CFL light bulbs contain mercury – a highly toxic metal that poses serious health risks, while LED lights contain no such toxic chemicals or metals. Studies performed by the United States Department of Energy and scientists from Carnegie Mellon both found that LED lights are as efficient to manufacture as CFL lights and LEDs will become even more efficient in the future. With a market that’s rewarding businesses for going green by offering incentives for energy-saving methods, LED lighting could benefit your business in more ways than one!
While the upfront purchase price of an LED light bulb is higher than that of traditional CFLs, this cost pays for itself over the life of the LED bulb. According to one study done by the environmental website Eartheasy, an LED light would cost $95.95 to run for 50,000 hours while a CFL bulb would cost $159.75 to run for the same period and would have to be replaced about five times during the process. Recognizing these cost savings for your home and business could make a real dent in your bottom line.
If you are a homeowner or a business owner or facilities manager and you are looking to go green and save some green, that reaches out the LED lighting installers of choice serving the Nashville, Tennessee, Victory Lights!