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At some point between the time she disembarked from a recent cruise in Miami and returned to Carmel, Ind., someone decided to go shopping with Jody Tzucker’s credit card. “They bought cigars and other odd things in Miami,” says Tzucker, a retired manager for a nonprofit association.
She suspects that the criminals may have skimmed her Visa account information while she was filling up her gas tank in South Florida. Or maybe not. Nowadays, hackers don’t even have to see your credit card to access the information on it. They can scan it from a safe distance.
One of the latest threats against travelers is invisible and silent: wireless attacks that siphon your credit card number, personal information and passwords. Anything with a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip, including your passport or a credit card, can be read from afar. Thieves can also mine valuable data from your smartphone when it automatically logs on to a WiFi network.
Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to thwart these wireless assaults, including new luggage products and common-sense steps that protect your devices and credit cards.
As it turned out, Tzucker’s card didn’t have an RFID chip. And she was lucky. Before the cigar-loving thieves could finish their shopping excursion, her bank’s fraud detection algorithm tagged her purchases as suspicious, disabled her account and refunded the fraudulent transactions. And that may be one of the most effective solutions — having a bank that can stop fraud quickly and cover any losses. After the incident, Tzucker also switched to using a prepaid debit card when she traveled, which contains no personal information.
But others haven’t been so fortunate. Nearly half of all travelers use their smartphones to access the Internet when they’re on vacation, according to a recent survey by security firm Kaspersky Lab. One-third of phone users store their passwords to online accounts, including bank and social networks, on their devices. While any phone can be a target, the most vulnerable wireless devices run on the Android operating system, according to Kaspersky.
The luggage industry offers one possible solution: new backpacks and suitcases with protective linings to shield your IDs and wireless devices.
This month, luggage manufacturer Briggs & Riley, based in Hauppage, N.Y., will add RFID-blocking pockets to its new @work briefcase and bag collection. The models offer two pockets with electromagnetic shielding, one for IDs and passports, the other for a smartphone or a tablet computer. The black ballistic nylon cases, priced from $129 to $479, are designed to appeal to privacy-conscious business travelers.
Richard Krulik, Briggs & Riley’s chief executive, says that his company is constantly adapting to the concerns and demands of travelers, something he refers to as “reality engineering.”
“Increasingly, travelers are coming to rely on their luggage to keep more than their belongings safe,” he adds. “They need protection for their personal information and data.”
Escape the Wolf, a travel security company based in Virginia Beach, is also introducing a product this month, aimed at leisure travelers and called the Zero Trace Two-Day Backpack. It offers a large interior compartment to store any electronics you want to protect from prying eyes or scans. The $199 backpack, which will be part of Escape the Wolf’s line of security-enhancing luggage, is minimalist on the outside but sophisticated on the inside for a reason, says Clinton Emerson, the company’s chief executive.


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Chaguanas businessmen are not expecting the retail sector to pick up overnight.
Stores in the Central Borough opened up as early as 8 am along the Main Road.
However there was a trickle of customers.
Manager of Vishnu Charran, who runs the Charran’s Plaza, opposite the Chaguanas Market, said it may take a year before sales return to the way it was.
Charran said people just don’t have the disposable income.
He said the book store section was slow for a back-to-school season
“Disposable income is not there for a lot of people. The retail sector opened this morning and we expect to see a lot of people out there. However it is not going to be that inflow people many hope to see. People may look for the necessity. I expect things to be quite slow , it’s never going to get back to the level it was before and businesses need to recognize that and plan their business accordingly,” he said.
Shoppers told Guardian Media that they were mostly shopping for shoes and underwear.
A 40-year-old woman, of Charlieville said, “I have to buy shoes and underwear, these are things I must get. I don’t have a lot of money to buy new clothes. There are really no occasions to attend.
Business was also slow at the malls.
Richie Sookhai, president of the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CCIC), said 80 per cent of businesses were opened with workers operating on a shift basis.
Sookhai and CCIC members toured the area around noon.
He said, “It is pretty slow right now, just as the restaurant sector took a little while and is still trying to recover.”
He said the spending power of consumers has been slashed and many consumers are cautious with their monies as school is set to open next month.
Dr Valmikki Arjoon, CCIC executive member, said some people who have a steady income, would have a pent-up demand for goods while those who have lost income would show a lower demand for goods.
“Their recovery would be hinging on their ability to acquire their jobs or acquire new jobs something that is not going to happen overnight,” he said.

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Apple’s most radical product yet? MailOnline reveals what the tech giant’s first AR headset could look like – as experts say it could ‘replace the iPhone’
- Apple’s headset is expected to be unveiled in June before a release in September
- The ‘$3,000’ headset will overlay digital images on your real-life surroundings
- MailOnline takes a look at what to expect and if it will really ‘replace the iPhone’
Apple is less than two months away from unveiling a mixed reality headset that could ‘replace the iPhone’, according to an insider.
Expected to be called ‘Reality Pro’, the headset will transport notifications, messages, directions and more from your iPhone to right in front of your eyes.
After nearly eight years of development, it will be unveiled at Apple’s annual developer conference in June, according to respected leaker Mark Gurman.
But at a rumoured $3,000 (£2,400), the device could be restricted to only the most ardent – and wealthy – of Apple fans.
MailOnline takes a close look at the product and whether it’ll be Apple’s newest success story or a disastrous flop.
Expected to be called ‘Reality Pro’, the headset will transport notifications, messages, directions and more from your iPhone to in front of your eyes
WHEN WILL THE HEADSET BE LAUNCHED?
Apple announces WWDC where it’s expected to launch a HUGE new product – READ MORE
Although Apple hasn’t make any official mention of its mixed reality headset, Mark Gurman has said it will get its public debut in June
Reality Pro is set to be unveiled on June 5, the first day of the annual Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC), which Gurman says will be ‘one of the most important days in its history’.
‘The headset will be a risky, but potentially monumental launch for Apple,’ says Gurman in his Power On newsletter.
‘It will herald mixed reality as its next major product category, offering a glimpse of a future where people are interacting with the world via headsets and not pocketable touch screens.
‘Many executives at the company believe the device will have a slow start but eventually has the opportunity to replace the iPhone.’
Apple has confirmed the dates for WWDC but didn’t make any official mention of the headset in the announcement.
However, Gurman is certain it will be revealed on June 5 – less than six weeks away – and released to stores in September, around the same time as the company’s next iPhone.
Apple’s promo image for WWDC this year features curving coloured lines, which look ‘similar to the curved shape of the Apple headset facing upward’, he added.
A glimpse of the new headset? A cryptic promo image for Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) this year features curving coloured lines
This year’s five-day WWDC will be presented online, although there will be an opportunity for ‘developers and students to celebrate in person at a special experience’ hosted at Apple Park (pictured), the firm’s Cupertino HQ, on the opening day (June 5)
Apple is also working on a sleek pair of mixed reality glasses possibly called Apple Glass, which will come at a later date.
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
The headset ‘will start at around $3,000’ Gurman has said, which is around twice as much as some of the priciest smartphones on the market now.
Apple’s headset: Rumours
Release: September 2023
Type: Mixed reality
– One ‘higher-end’ similar to the M1 or M2
– One lower-end to manage ‘sensor-related aspects’
Operating system: xrOS
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E
Price: $3,000 (£2,400)
It’s possible that further versions of the device will get more affordable if the company wants to market them to a wider group of consumers.
Just like the iPhone and the Apple Watch, the headset will be followed by new updated iterations in the following years.
WHAT WILL THE HEADSET DO?
The headset will overlay digital images on real-life surroundings – technology known as augmented realty (AR).
But it will also be capable of virtual reality (VR), meaning it will project entirely virtual elements without the real life background.
AR layers computer-generated images on top of an existing reality – Pokémon Go being a famous example – while VR is wholly virtual, and mixed reality (MR) combines the two.
Whether it’s notifications, messages or map directions, wearers will be able to go along the street and constantly see their device interface in AR, without having to take their iPhone out of their pocket.
When the wearer is stationary, the device could be switched to VR, ideal for playing games, watching movies or having conversations with avatars online.
Reality Pro is expected to be launched with its own operating system, xrOS, which will host familiar Apple apps including FaceTime, Messages and Maps.
Gurman thinks the headset will be launched with a new portal for watching sports in VR as part of Apple’s push into streaming live games and news.
Rival tech firms such as Meta and Google have already launched AR or VR headsets, Pictured, Meta’s Quest Pro VR headset
They’ll also be advanced videoconferencing and virtual meeting rooms with realistic avatars, making users feel like they’re interacting in the same place.
However, Apple hasn’t really found a ‘killer app’ that will make the roughly $3,000 headset a must-have item, the expert added.
‘Instead, it’s trying another tactic – throwing everything but the kitchen sink at consumers,’ he said.
Apple headset will have 10 cameras and feature a 3D world – READ MORE
A drawing by The Information depicting what Apple’s device could look like
HOW WILL THE HEADSET WORK?
According to another leaker, Ming-Chi Kuo, the Apple headset will be marketed as an iPhone accessory and the two will need to be linked up.
But considering Apple’s wearables will allegedly one day replace the iPhone, future iterations of the headset could work independently.
For now, not having to pack a load of hardware into the headset and instead rely on the iPhone is allowing Apple to keep it light so it doesn’t weigh down the wearer’s head.
Even so, the headset will contain sensors and its own processors – one ‘similar’ those used in its Mac computers and iPads, and another to manage ‘sensor-related aspects.
It’s thought it will work with the iPhone so that any alerts that come through on the phone will be displayed on the headset, but the new product will give Apple fans a whole new level of immersion and touchless control.
Reality Pro will have an interface similar to iOS that users can control with their hands through in-air typing and scrolling, while sensors in the device could track users’ eyes, potentially allowing them to select an app just by looking at it.
AREN’T THERE ALREADY VR AND AR HEADSETS?
Yes, rival tech firms such as Meta, Samsung and Microsoft have already launched AR or VR headsets, but Reality Pro is expected to be more like using a smartphone, except it’s over your eyes.
Meta – the company that owns Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram – launched its mixed reality Meta Quest Pro VR headset last autumn.
The $1,499 headset boasts new features that are meant to improve users’ perception of actually being in the presence of others.
However, Meta Quest Pro VR is mostly targeted at professionals in creative fields, businesses and enthusiasts, so it shouldn’t be a direct rival for Reality Pro.
Other big sellers in the space are the HTC Vive brand, owned by Taiwanese firm HTC, Samsung Gear VR and Microsoft’s mixed reality HoloLens headset – but these are quite bulky devices that target mostly gamers or professionals.
WHY IS APPLE DOING THIS NOW?
Apple has long been rumoured to be developing an AR wearable; the tech giant filed a patent in 2019 that gives a glimpse into what it may be developing behind closed doors, but work on the headset has been going on for the best part of a decade.
According to Gurman, Reality Pro could be the next major platform beyond the iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch, which was first released to much hype back in 2015.
Apple could introduce some HUGE changes with the iPhone 15 – READ MORE
iPhone 15 could have a thinner bezel, thicker camera bumps, more curved edges and haptic buttons controlled by touch
Gurman has called the June 5 launch ‘one of the most critical events in the company’s history’ and an opportunity ‘to herald a post-iPhone era’.
With Reality Pro, Apple is ‘preparing for a future beyond the iPhone and iPad’ – but execs are ‘clear-eyed about Apple’s challenges pushing into this new market’.
While Gurman thinks the first version will be a ‘dud’ in terms of sales compared with the company’s existing hardware, future versions will likely do better as the product finds its place.
For now, Apple will have to explain to consumers why they’d want to own such a device and how it’s an improvement over the likes of iPhone and iPad.
Paolo Pescatore, analyst at PP Foresight, said the device will appeal to loyal fans and those who want ‘an immersive experience in areas such as games and live events’.
But among the general public, adoption and awareness of AR and VR technologies ‘remains lackluster’ and could hamper sales of the headset.
‘The device will provide a much needed boost and reignite interest in the virtual and augmented reality market,’ Pescatore told MailOnline.
Apple has long been rumoured to be developing an AR wearable. The tech giant filed a patent in 2019 (pictured) that gives a glimpse into what it may be developing behind closed doors
‘Ultimately this is still at early stage and has some way to go before its mass market and widely accepted.
‘People are not rushing out of their seats to buy a VR headset or even watch 360 degree videos.’
Pescatore also said Apple ‘cannot solely rely on the iPhone forever’ given intense competition from rival firms in new product categories such as foldable devices.
‘The company has placed strong focus on the iPhone as a gateway to the Apple universe,’ he said. ‘This might suggest it is behind the curve on new hardware.’
Leaked video claims to show Google’s ‘Pixel Fold’ – leaving Apple as the last big smartphone maker to develop a foldable
Unlike Samsung, Huawei and many more of its smartphone rivals, Google is yet to release a foldable phone – but this may soon be about to change.
Leaked footage of what’s thought to be Google’s first foldable phone – called the Pixel Fold – has been posted to Twitter.
It shows a stylish black smartphone with a screen on the outside that unfolds to reveal a second tablet-sized display within.
Although it’s not known for certain if this is a Google device, the US tech giant is already expected to announce the Pixel Fold next month.
Apple is another tech giant that is yet to launch a foldable phone, although some iPhone fans previously created a prototype of what this might look like.
Source: Read Full Article


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WHY THIS MATTERS IN BRIEF
We already have invisibility cloaks thanks to metamaterials, and now phase change materials will hide you from infra red sensors to turn you completely invisible.
If you don’t want to be found then there’s good news for you. Recently I showed off the world’s first real invisibility cloak, and now, in an effort to create the ultimate cloaking device researchers at the University of California San Diego have announced they’ve “developed a wearable technology that can hide its wearer from heat-detecting sensors such as night vision goggles,” even when the ambient temperature of the environment they’re in changes. In short not only could you make yourself invisible from people but now you could hide your heat signature aswell.
The battery powered device, which can be embedded into any fabric and controlled by a wireless circuit board, has a surface that can quickly cool down or heat up in order to match the ambient temperature, thereby camouflaging the wearer’s body heat, and thereby them, from anyone who wants to find them, and it’s surface can go from 10 to 38C, or 50 to 100F, in less than a minute while the inside of it remains comfortable cool.
In order to build the device the team used a phase-changing material that’s similar to wax but with more complex properties. The melting point of the material is 30C, or 86F, the same temperature as the surface temperature of human skin, and if the temperature on the outside of it is higher than that then the material will melt and stabilise, insulating the wearer, and if it’s colder it’ll slowly solidify, still acting as an insulating layer.
The team, led by UC San Diego mechanical and aerospace engineering professor Renkun Chen, detailed their work in a recent issue of the journal Advanced Functional Materials.
At the core of the device though are materials that can create heating or cooling effects when the ambient temperature changes, and flexible electronics that can be embedded into clothing. The outside layer of the device is driven by a technology that Chen and colleagues detailed in a paper in Science Advances made of thermoelectric alloys — materials that use electricity to create a temperature difference — sandwiched between stretchy elastomer sheets, and the device can physically cool or heat itself to a temperature that the wearer chooses.
Current state of the art heat stealth technology consists of a surface coating that changes how much heat clothing emits at the surface. The coating absorbs the heat from the wearer’s body and reflects only enough energy to match the ambient temperature. However, the coating only works at a predetermined temperature so if the ambient temperature rises or falls it no longer works so the teams new device is a breakthrough in camouflage technology. And you can probably guess where it will end up going…
Now though the researchers’ biggest challenge is to scale it up and their ultimate ambition is to create a jacket with it, but under current conditions the garment would weigh 2 kilograms or 4.5 lbs, be about 5 millimeters thick and only function for one hour, so the team will be looking to find lighter, thinner materials so it could weigh two or three times less.


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Press Release from 4Kids Entertainment International
YU-GI-OH!, the smash hit kids franchise from 4Kids Entertainment International, is increasing its presence in Italy with a series of new deals.
After launching in Japan in 1999, YU-GI-OH! has captivated children across the globe. 17 million video games have been sold to date worldwide and over 18.1 billion YU-GI-OH! trading cards have been translated into seven languages and sold in 51 countries worldwide -- approximately six million 6-8 year olds collect and play the trading card game across the globe.
The franchise has proved extremely successful in the Italian market. On TV, YU-GI-OH! GX season 3 continues to air Saturday mornings on Mediaset's Italia 1, which has also acquired the first season of the new YU-GI-OH! 5D'S series. Set in Domino City, transformed into a futuristic metropolis, 5D'S feature duelists battling it out on motorcycles or 'Duel Runners', in a new form of dueling called 'Turbo Duels' -- hi-octane contests in which the winners and losers are no longer separated by skill and strength, but by speed.
The brand is equally popular with licensees and new deals include an apparel license with Linea D to include T-shirts, sweatshirts, underwear, jeans, towels, jackets, and shoes, whilst Giochi Preziosi has been signed up for back-to-school and stationery. A new toy line is due to launch in Fall '09 from Upper Deck, which will include a range of products guaranteed to delight YU-GI-OH! fans -- such as action figures, wrist card holders and Duel Runners.
"YU-GI-OH! is hugely popular in Italy and its success shows no signs of abating," said Sandra Vauthier-Cellier, Managing Director of 4Kids Entertainment International. "The brand is absolutely red hot at the moment and the arrival of 5D's is adding to the excitement surrounding it."


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17 October, Singapore – Samsung held a gala launch event at the Ritz-Carlton to unveil their Be Creative celebrity ambassadors.
The talented Singaporean singer/songwriter Olivia Ong is Samsung’s celebrity ambassador for the new GALAXY Note II LTE. Olivia announced at the event that she will be working with Samsung on “The Wonderland” project, and embark on a creative journey to compose an original song “Wonderland”. “Wonderland” will then be made into a music video, to capture the story behind the song and it will involve her fans in her creativity process by interacting and sharing ideas with Olivia.
MediaCorp artiste, Desmond Tan is chosen as the celebrity ambassador for the Samsung GALAXY camera. Desmond Tan, a photography buff and self-confessed closeted fashionista loves to share photos with friends, fans and family.
The Samsung GALAXY Note II LTE is now available in Samsung experience stores, major electronic retailers and telcos for S$998 (without contract). The GALAXY Camera will be released in November 2012.


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In rhetoric at least, Obama has indicated willingness to impose protectionist measures on China, especially over its reluctance to allow more currency flexibility. Recall that Obama was (is?) a member of the resident Congressional China-bashing crew, the so-called "China Currency Coalition." I recently suggested that the credit crisis is exacerbating the worst tendencies of various world economies. This is especially the case with China, which has reinstated all sorts of export subsidies and is now, get this, back to devaluing the yuan. Yesterday established a one-day record for yuan losses vis-a-vis the dollar, with more RMB weakness likely in store as China tries to safeguard dwindling exports [click chart above to enlarge]. At this rate, USD/CNY should be above 7.00 in no time. Given that the China bashers were already unhappy with the nominal rate of yuan appreciation, this marked reversal should rock their world.
China bashers and others clamoring for a more activist US economic policy have largely been disappointed by Obama's economic team choices. Summers? Volcker? It's true that Obama is now answerable to a wider constituency than the understandably more trade-phobic Illinois set he used to mind. Even if I don't agree with them, it's a shame how Democratic presidents seem to discount the organized labor / tradophobic sets whose support they have exploited upon reaching office. Call it the Clinton effect: President Bill said he wanted to tie China's human rights record to renewal of its most-favored nation (MFN) status. Now Obama says trade deals ought to be tied to environmental and labor standards. Same banana.
So, I lie in wait for the Great Protectionist Legislation of 2009. With Bush removed from office, a major impediment to such a bill passing is now gone. C'mon, Obama, you know you like it--let some protectionist legislation go through. Slap some good ol' Super 301 action on China. (Maybe you should aid Detroit while you're at it, too.) I want to see global economic imbalances licked for good. If you think things are bad in the US now, think what will happen when the world finally tires of funding America's endless deficits while being treated so poorly. Your erstwhile China Currency Coalition colleagues are counting on you:
The China Currency Coalition ("CCC"), whose members represent a broad cross-section of American manufacturers, producers, farmers, and unions, today congratulated President-Elect Barack Obama on his historic victory yesterday and expressed the hope that with his leadership the economy and national security of the United States will be strengthened.Remember that the WTO has no stipulations on currency manipulation. And, of course, many of these proposed "remedies" would be WTO-illegal to boot.
As part of this process, the CCC urged in a letter (available at www.chinacurrencycoalition.org) by its Co-Chairmen, Doug Bartlett and Richard L. Trumka, that the 111th Congress pass and President Obama sign bipartisan trade legislation in early 2009 that allows affected American industries to offset with countervailing or antidumping duties unfairly priced, injurious imports from China or any other country that supports exports by means of enforced undervaluation and fundamental misalignment of its currency. This approach is incorporated in the Bunning-Stabenow-Bayh bill, S. 796, The Fair Currency Act of 2007, which has ten co-sponsors including President-Elect Obama. It also is embodied in companion legislation by Congressmen Tim Ryan (D-OH) and Duncan Hunter (R-CA), H.R. 2942, The Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act of 2007, which has 77 co-sponsors.
The CCC estimates that, despite a nominal appreciation of approximately 17 percent since July 2005, China's renminbi remains substantially undervalued against the U.S. dollar - by 35 percent in real terms. As a result, China has amassed enormous foreign exchange reserves in excess of $2 trillion and has had in recent years an annual trade surplus with the United States of roughly $250 billion. In an attempt to remain competitive with China, other countries have similarly undervalued their currencies.
"It would be difficult to overstate how critical market-driven exchange rates are to U.S. commerce and global trade," commented Bartlett. "By fundamentally misaligning and undervaluing the renminbi, the Chinese government has been creating extremely dangerous imbalances that severely undercut U.S. manufacturers' ability to compete with Chinese products in the United States as well as in third countries and that often shuts U.S. exports out of China. This arrangement obviously is not sustainable for the United States, especially in this time of worldwide financial and economic turmoil. It seriously weakens our economy and undermines our national security. If we are to recover from the current economic crisis, we must be able to manufacture products here, provide good jobs for Americans, and create wealth at home - not send it overseas."
Added Trumka, "President-Elect Obama knows from his campaigning across the United States how many Americans and their families are suffering due to cheap imports from China and other countries that undervalue their currencies. It is time to put a stop to these unfair trade practices that have resulted in millions of skilled jobs going abroad. The Bush Administration's policy of simply talking with China has not worked. Our country cannot afford to continue this way. We need action not words. Prompt passage of effective legislation is vitally important."
Observed David Hartquist, the CCC's legal counsel, "Both S. 796 and H.R. 2942 recognize the hybrid nature of undervalued exchange-rate misalignment as a monetary measure that has adverse consequences for international trade. China's protracted, large-scale interventions in the exchange markets have resulted in injurious imports into the United States of subsidized Chinese-made products and in a formidable non-tariff barrier to exports from the United States to China. Legislation like S. 796 and H.R. 2942 underscores that the United States and its workers, companies, and farmers expect China to uphold its international legal obligations at the World Trade Organization and at the International Monetary Fund."


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EAST GREENWICH — A major mixed-use development that straddles two communities took another big step forward in becoming a reality in the future.
With unanimous approval, members of the East Greenwich Planning Board gave the okay to both the master plan for “The Commons at Frenchtown Road” presented by representatives from Frenchtown Commons, LLC and a proposed alteration to the zone ordinance in order to accommodate the 40-acre parcel of land that stretches across East Greenwich and North Kingstown.
The triangular-shaped East Greenwich portion of the property is about one quarter of the total size that faces Frenchtown Road and extends south across the town line.
As stated in the staff report, the East Greenwich side of “The Commons at Frenchtown Road” will have a cinema, some retail, residential and office buildings while the North Kingstown side will have a big-box retail store that will be approximately 135,000 square feet in size among other retailers. The entire parcel of land will be located west of the Stop and Shop plaza at the corner of Frenchtown Road and Post Road just beyond the former Brown and Sharp facility.
When the plan was first introduced back in 2011, according to the staff report, the proposal called for the big-box retailer and a 9,000-stquare-foot restaurant to be located on the East Greenwich side of the land. However, the report states that a second version “flipped” the design, which now placed the big-box retailer on the North Kingstown side and the ban on big-box retailers on North Kingstown was lifted to accommodate the project.
In terms of sewer service, the East Greenwich Public Works Department, according to the staff report, has indicated “a willingness to accept connections as it would be in the best interest of the Hunt River Aquifer.” However, the report states that an on-site treatment system for this size development would “not be optimal” and that such extension for connections on Frenchtown Road wasn’t expected by the Town’s current Sewer Facilities Plan. Therefore, amendments to that document would be required on the part of the East Greenwich Town Council before construction begins on the site.
For the rest of this story and more local news, pick up the Sept. 12 issue of the East Greenwich Pendulum.


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November 13, 2014
A mobile proof of delivery application and a mobile device dispatch app are now integrated with Carrier Logistics Inc.'s FACTS freight management system.
November 10, 2014
CAT Scale announced that its Weigh My Truck app is now available for the iPhone and iPad through the iOS App Store.
November 7, 2014
AT&T has introduced an iOS version of its DriveMode mobile app to limit a driver's ability to use a smart phones while driving. The app silences incoming text message alerts when the driver is going faster than 15 mph.
September 23, 2014
EBE Technologies’ Xpress Mobile Capture software allows drivers to submit and monitor the status of driver paperwork such as delivery, settlement and safety documents on a mobile device.
September 22, 2014
More than 1,900 trucking company executives, driver managers, dispatchers, IT managers and other personnel were on hand for TMW Systems’ Transforum 2014, the company’s annual user conference.
July 28, 2014
Truckers MedCallAssist is a new telemedicine program designed to connect truck drivers instantly with a board-certified emergency-trained physician 24 hours a day.
We offer e-newsletters that deliver targeted news and information for the entire fleet industry.
The expert, Mark Betner from Citgo will answer your questions Ask a question
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Satellite TV Package Designed For Truckers
Eco-flaps Splash Guards Expanded to 18-Inch Widths


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“We’re extremely proud of our long partnership with McLaren, which is built on collaboration, a shared passion for innovation and a commitment to performance,” explains Patrick Bourguignon, Managing Director of AkzoNobel’s Automotive and Specialty Coatings business. “The car looks fantastic – both on top and underneath – and we’re especially looking forward to seeing it in action at Zandvoort when the F1 Grand Prix returns to the Netherlands this year.”
The McLaren Racing team will be looking to build on a positive 2019 season, when they finished fourth in the Constructors’ Championship.
Says Zak Brown, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Racing: “Once again our new Formula 1 car, the MCL35, looks fantastic. We’ve pushed the technical boundaries this year with our livery, and we’re grateful that AkzoNobel – a trusted partner of ours for over ten years – has collaborated with us. We thank them for their continued support”
Scientists and technicians at McLaren and AkzoNobel have been collaborating for more than a decade, with the partnership being extended in 2012 to include McLaren road cars. Working together, they’ve accelerated coatings technology and color development, paving the way for future exploration of new opportunities.
“Working with inspiring partners like McLaren enables us to broaden our expertise as we endeavor to deliver more cutting-edge innovation for our customers,” adds Bourguignon. “We both have an interest in the ongoing pursuit of high performance and this will remain a constant driving force as our collaboration continues to flourish.”
The first Grand Prix of the new season will take place in Melbourne, Australia, on March 15.
AkzoNobel has a passion for paint. We’re experts in the proud craft of making paints and coatings, setting the standard in color and protection since 1792. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. Headquartered in the Netherlands, we are active in over 150 countries and employ around 33,000 talented people who are passionate about delivering the high-performance products and services our customers expect.


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Video game guitars recalled for burn hazard
- October 24, 2008 2:37 PM
- By Peter Hadzipetros
California-based Performance Designed Products is recalling its Rage Wireless Guitars, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said Wednesday.
The CPSC said a defect in the circuit board may cause the guitars' batteries to leak if installed incorrectly, creating a chemical burn hazard to users.
About 2,500 guitars were sold in Canada, Health Canada said Thursday.
The company has learned of one consumer suffering a burn.
The guitars, which are used with the Nintendo Wii gaming system, were sold in U.S. stores from June 2008 through September 2008 for between $40 and $60 US.
The guitars were made in China.
Consumers should stop using the guitars and return them to the retailer for a refund.
- Seymour Custom Solvent recalled over labelling
- Health Canada has recalled 16,000 Seymour Custom Solvent Blend and Water Blend aerosol products because they do not meet mandatory warning labelling requirements.... Continue reading this post
- Kids eyeglass cases recalled because of lead levels
- About 1,500 childrens' eyeglass cases have been recalled because paint on the cases contains lead levels in excess of federal standards.... Continue reading this post


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NEW YORK (MarketWatch) — Retail stocks dropped Thursday after disappointing results or forecasts from office-supplies retailer OfficeMax Inc., apparel company Liz Claiborne Inc. and specialty retailer Urban Outfitters Inc.
Shares of OfficeMax OMXS30, +1.14% tumbled 12% after the company reported a first-quarter profit of 13 cents a share, missing the average estimate of 27 cents a share, according to an analyst survey by FactSet Research. Read more about OfficeMax.
Liz Claiborne’s LIZ shares declined 3.5%. The company said late Wednesday that its quarterly loss widened to $96.3 million, or $1.02 a share, from $71.8 million, or 76 cents a share, in the year-earlier period. Sales at the New York-based company fell to $513.2 million from $584.2 million.
Excluding items, Liz Claiborne said it lost 56 cents a share in the latest period. On average, analysts surveyed by FactSet projected a loss of 31 cents a share. The company kept its profit targets for this year and next.
Liz Claiborne is hosting a meeting with analysts in New York.
Urban Outfitters’ URBN, +0.05% shares fell 4.6% after the company said its quarter-to-date comparable retail sales through the Easter holiday weekend were down in the low single digits. The company added that it’s selling its Leifsdottir brand exclusively at Anthropologie stores and through its direct-to-consumer business, discontinuing its wholesale distribution.
Shares of Wal-Mart Stores Inc. WMT, -1.46% edged up 0.6%. The world’s largest retailer is bringing back sales of rifles, shotguns and ammunition to hundreds of its stores as it seeks to reverse seven straight quarters of declining Walmart U.S. same-store sales, The Wall Street Journal reported. Read comments about consumers from Wal-Mart’s chief executive.
The S&P Retail Index RLX fell 0.1%.
Investor sentiment was hurt by an unexpected increase in initial jobless claims, while a separate report showed the U.S. economy slowed markedly in the first quarter.
In its first estimate Thursday, the Commerce Department said gross domestic product rose at a 1.8% annual rate between January and March, slower than the 3.1% pace in the prior three months. Read more about GDP.


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Capturing all of life's precious moments has never been easier thanks to the iPhone. The stock Apple Camera app includes several different shooting modes. One of the hidden features of the iPhone camera is Burst mode, first introduced on the iPhone 5s. Unlike shooting modes such as Pano or Square, Burst shooting is not selected before the image is framed.
The Photos app is seemingly improved with each new iOS, and this holds true with iOS 12 as well. In addition to improving the search function (allowing you to search by place or event and multiple keywords), allowing for editing RAW files, and an overhauled Albums layout, Photos in iOS 12 adds a For You tab that includes a number of features. Here's an overview of the new For You section:
Apple has sent invitations for its second splash media event of fall 2018. On the day before Halloween, Apple will reveal new products at the Howard Gilman Opera House in New York. The keynote is described in the invitations with the tagline "There's more in the making". So what's in the pipeline after this year's launch of the iPhone XS and Apple Watch Series 4?
Some people do not consider browser-based and mobile type games as an important part of video gaming history, but those people would be wrong. Lots of gamers have been entertained for many hours by flash games like Bejeweled and Line Rider, and mobile games like Angry Birds have launched million dollar franchises. We all have known someone addicted to FarmVille, and most of us have tried to kill everyone on Earth in Pandemic 2.
You'd think by now that some headway would have been made against the incessant nuisance calls that we all receive on a daily basis, considering how long its been going on and how many complaints are made to the Federal Trade Commission. Last year the FTC received an average of 375,000 complaints per month according to its end of year report to Congress.


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The Chamber of Commerce announced its first-ever Chamber Cash Mob.
The community event will take place 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at the corner of Olive and Broad streets in Texarkana, Ark.
Cash Mobs are flash mobs, but instead of singing and dancing, the group spends money—targeting chamber businesses. The group's intentions are to help businesses grow, make people happy, purchase goods and have a great time, according to a statement released by the chamber.
Special promotions will be offered during the event, and the chamber asks for people to bring at least $10 cash to spend.
The Texarkana Chamber of Commerce is a private not-for-profit membership trade association that focuses on community and economic development for the Texarkana region. The chamber has been a community partner more than 100 years in Bowie and Miller counties.
Information on the chamber and the upcoming program can be found at 819 N. State Line Ave. in Texarkana, Texas, or call 903-792-7191.


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Hanban shops around for a wider choice
Updated: 2013-09-10 08:37
By Sun Shangwu, Zhao Huanxin and Tang Yue (China Daily)
Li Min/China Daily
Confucius Institutes are adding to their rich repertoire, as Sun Shangwu, Zhao Huanxin and Tang Yue report
Are you familiar with the name Confucius Institute? How about the idea of a convenience store for Chinese language and culture?
Hanban, the organization that promotes Chinese language and culture, is expanding its work to other fields, although not quite as far as convenience stores.
The leader of the organization hopes its overseas services will become more accessible, with a richer choice for clients, "like 7-Eleven".
"These stores are not very big, but you can see them everywhere and people can get virtually whatever they want whenever they go," said Xu Lin, director-general of Hanban, the nonprofit agency that administers Confucius Institutes worldwide.
"We are trying to do the same. Hopefully, we can also fill our shelves with diversified quality goods. So that those who want to learn Chinese and Chinese culture can have enough choices," Xu told China Daily in an exclusive interview in late August.
There is no way there can be as many Confucius Institutes as outlets of the world's largest convenience store chain. But they have been developing at an impressive speed since the first one opened in South Korea in 2004.
According to the latest figures, 429 Confucius Institutes and another 629 Confucius Classrooms have opened in 115 countries and regions around the world. And about 500 other overseas institutions have applied or shown willingness to collaborate with Hanban.
Meanwhile, the number of foreigners taking the Chinese proficiency test, the HSK, rose from 117,660 in 2005 to 3.5 million in 2012.
With more than 1,000 sites, Confucius Institutes have a widespread presence all over the world that is unmatched by other Chinese agencies or companies. Now in its ninth year, the institute is widely considered the country's best name card with a huge potential for sustainable growth.
"There are more than 10,000 teachers and volunteers in overseas Confucius Institutes and they are the living embodiment of China and Chinese culture," Xu said.
"I know a teacher in Afghanistan who was once only tens of metres away from a bombing on her way to work. They are just investing so much in this course."


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With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic – and new wave of cases in many states – businesses, schools, and other organizations continue to struggle to create safe environments for their workers, students, customers, and guests. At one point, there seemed to be hope that many businesses would be able to operate somewhat normally, but it now seems more likely that masks and distancing are with us for the foreseeable future.
In addition to new cleaning protocols and screening policies, one of the things facilities have to deal with is distancing. Ultimately, this may be the last remnant of the pandemic to disappear – if it ever does. The fact is that most companies (62%) are concerned about risks to their employees or customers, and many are already developing new plans for their physical spaces. It’s likely increased spacing is going to be the new normal when it comes to workplaces
That means a lot of time will be spent redesigning of workspaces and other venues to maximize capacity while minimizing risk, which can be a time-consuming and highly inefficient task without the right tools. To help companies in their effort to create appropriate spacing and limit the spread of the virus, Kaon Interactive has launched a new COVID-19 Space Planning Tool.
The free interactive tool is designed to help create effective physical plans in offices, restaurants, schools, and other interior spaces that will maximize functionality while limiting the potential spread of the virus.
The tool provides a 3D visualization of any space based on its specific sizing and configuration. Office managers, for instance, are able to add desks, chairs, cabinets, tables, break room appliances and furniture, and other office elements.
As soon as chairs are placed, the software shows implements safe distancing criteria and clearly shows where chairs are not spaced far enough apart. The distancing is set to 6 feet by default, but can be adjusted to any distance by users who want to increase spacing. The web app includes a variety of furniture and other features for restaurants, retail stores, classrooms, and bathrooms.
This pandemic has proven challenging in many capacities, and countless businesses have either had to delay re-opening their facilities due to configuration challenges that made it impossible to bring workers or customers back safely. With a simple web app like the COVID-19 Space Planning Tool, redesigning workspaces becomes much easier – all you need are the dimensions of the space and you can get started.


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The app has been refreshed to integrate additional programs to make it easier for members to accumulate miles.
United Airlines is introducing the relaunch of the United MileagePlus X app, which offers United MileagePlus® members a unique opportunity to earn award miles for everyday purchases. The app has been refreshed to integrate additional programs to make it even easier for members to accumulate miles. Additionally, the app features the launch of United Visa Rewards with offers from merchants like Sam’s Club®, Wayfair®, and StubHubTM, offering UnitedSM Chase Visa Cardmembers even more ways to earn miles.
- MileagePlus DiningSM: The existing MileagePlus Dining program has been integrated into the MileagePlus X app. With seamless enrollment and showcasing nearby restaurants, members’ ability to choose where to dine and earn miles is now in the palm of their hand.
- MileagePlus Shopping: The longstanding shopping program is now available through the MileagePlus X app, and offers members the ability to shop and earn miles on the go at more than 900 retailers.
- United Visa Rewards: This new program is powered by Visa Commerce Network, which allows enrolled individuals to receive valuable offers within MileagePlus X thanks to the power of the Visa payments network. United Visa Rewards is available exclusively to United Chase Visa Cardmembers in the U.S. who are now able to enroll their eligible card into the program via the app. From there, they can view active enhanced mileage earning offers from participating merchants. Once program participants make a qualifying purchase with a participating merchant, they will receive a near real-time reward notification within the app. As a special launch offer, from now until March 31, 2019, United Chase Visa Cardmembers can earn 1,000 bonus award miles by simply enrolling their eligible credit card for the first time into the program.1
“We are excited to launch the new MileagePlus X app, which allows MileagePlus members to earn and redeem award miles in real time for their everyday purchases at hundreds of merchants across the U.S, matching the increased benefits our UnitedSM Explorer Cardmembers received with the new credit card last summer,” said Luc Bondar, president of MileagePlus Holdings and vice president of loyalty at United Airlines. “As mobile payments become more commonplace, it was a natural tie for United to update the features, enable members to make purchases and earn and use miles on the go.”
“Visa and United have been working together for over 20 years,” said Terry Angelos, SVP, loyalty & offers, Visa. “As digitally-savvy individuals continue to help shape the future of digital commerce, Visa continues to work with United and Chase to bring new ways to reward consumers for their loyalty. At the same time, participating merchants will benefit from Visa Commerce Network’s ability to deliver custom solutions that will help increase their customer base and loyalty, ultimately helping them continue to grow their business.”
Through the MileagePlus X app, members can purchase eGift Cards from hundreds of restaurants and retailers. One of the savviest ways to take advantage of this feature is to buy an eGift Card in the amount of the purchase price while at checkout at a participating merchant. In addition, primary United Chase Cardmembers earn a 25% bonus on miles earned from MileagePlus on eGift Card purchases made through the app. Customers can find eGift Cards from a variety of categories such as shopping, dining, transportation, lodging, music, and more.


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What are two things that you don’t think you would be able to live your daily life without? Most people would probably say their phone and their car. Well, Chevrolet has recognized just that and found a way to make sure you get the best of both…
Earlier this week, Chevrolet announced that they will be raising the bar in the industry’s technology once more and introducing models optionally equipped with OnStar 4G LTE (thanks to some help from AT&T) starting this summer. The first models to have this feature will be the 2015 Corvette, Impala, Malibu, and Volt and will be followed by the Equinox, Silverado, and Spark.
“Chevrolet is expected to implement the broadest deployment of 4G LTE in the automotive industry,” said Alan Batey, senior vice president of Global Chevrolet. “The fact that OnStar with 4G LTE will be available in models that range from the Chevrolet Spark to the Silverado to the Corvette, is indicative of our broad commitment to deliver more value and convenience through smart technology applications. This new, purposeful technology solution will make our consumers lives easier to connect.”
The 4G LTE rollout will bring a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot to most Chevrolet vehicles, which allows passengers to connect their personal devices, such as smartphones, laptops and tablets, to high-speed wireless internet. Each vehicle can accommodate multiple devices at one time.
“We know that our customers rely on being connected on a daily, if not hourly basis, and they expect to be provided with the information and content they desire with no interruptions,” said Mary Chan, president, GM’s Global Connected Consumer. “A 4G LTE hotspot that’s built into a car’s architecture will provide a more consistent and powerful Wi-Fi connection than a smartphone.”
With OnStar’s 4G LTE connection, the vehicle acts as a mobile hub, giving customers easier access to apps and services that require a high-speed cellular or data connection. The vehicle will employ a wireless connection that does not rely on a brought-in mobile device.
Additionally, Chevrolet MyLink will offer a built-in AppShop, accessible right from MyLink’s touchscreen where you can view all the apps, download them directly to the vehicle, organize, update, or delete them as needed – just like your iPhone and Android. These applications will connect drivers to vehicle data, weather, news, travel information and more. The initial app lineup will include: Vehicle Health, iHeartRadio, Priceline.com, The Weather Channel, NPR, Slacker Radio, TuneIn Radio, Cityseeker, Eventseeker, Glympse, and Kaliki.
“The built-in 4G LTE connection will allow our vehicles to be updated with the latest software and apps,” said Chan. “This means that the driver’s vehicle infotainment systems can keep getting better after purchase as customers can continue to add on and customize their features.”
And in order to make sure that you’re connected and ready on your 2015 Chevy, Chevrolet is offering a free Android smartphone with a 2-year service agreement.
Wanna get a first look at this technology in person? Fill out the contact form below and let us know and Jeff Gordon Chevrolet will contact you upon arrival of our first 4G LTE-equipped 2015 models so you can come test it out for yourself. Just fill out the form below or chat with us directly by hitting the red icon on the top-right of this post.


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Australia’s port of Mackay has seen 29,976 freight tonnes of breakbulk cargo traverse its wharves during January.
North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) told HLPFI that January had been one of its busiest months for breakbulk cargoes.
“Additionally, there has been a shift in the diversity of the cargo, which is encouraging,” added NQBP. “Cargo manufactured in Europe and Central America is being handled at the port of Mackay, which represents further changes to the OEM supply chains.”
In August 2019, Höegh Autoliners expanded its services in Australia with the addition of a port call in Mackay and NQBP said the service is still being well-received.
Tore Listad, Höegh’s head of regional sales Europe, Middle East, India, Africa and Oceania said there was increased demand for the shipping line’s services in the region. “Our Mackay service in 2019… [has] provided a unique opportunity to receive cargo closer to the end markets in North Queensland,” added Listad.
“With the growing investments in this region we are meeting the increased demand for a reliable and monthly service. We are working to grow our customer portfolio and are receiving interest across the mining and construction sectors alike.”
The next issue of HLPFI will contain a special report on the development of the breakbulk and project cargo market in Australasia. If you would like to contribute to this feature, please contact firstname.lastname@example.org.


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We all do our best to try and avoid products with toxins that could affect our health. Whether it’s food, cleaning products, or cosmetics, more and more people are looking for chemical-free products. Unfortunately there’s another source of toxins that you probably weren’t aware of: Fast fashion. That’s right, there are chemicals in clothes from popular brands such as Shein, Zaful, and even Old Navy and Lululemon that could be harming your health and that of the planet.
Chemicals in Clothes Are A Bigger Health Risk Than You Realize
Recently a tweet went out about an investigation done on the fast fashion company Shein. The tweet said that the study found the brand has very high levels of toxic chemicals in their clothes – including their childrens wear and maternity clothing. This includes lead, which is known to cause some pretty serious health problems. A Twitter user called luz del abismo wrote this:
“shein was found to have over 18x the allotted amount of lead in their clothing. lead exposure can lead to mood disorders, reduced sperm count/abnormal sperm activity, & even miscarriage/stillbirth in pregnant women…
not shaming anyone for purchasing what’s affordable for them, but y’all should be aware of what’s in what you’re wearing/putting your children in…
lead exposure can cause hella developmental issues with children and cause them to have learning difficulties…
while lead is thought to only remain in one’s blood for a month, it can stay in your bones for up to 30 years after your exposure. this is why so many people born from 1966-1970 w long term exposure to lead have lead-linked loss cognitive ability today!” (1)
Her source for the research was an investigation reported on by CBC – the Canadian Broadcasting Company – a year prior, in 2021. Shein has insisted that it is committed to product safety. They have even removed certain products from their catalog and said they were reviewing those suppliers. Toxic chemicals in clothing, however, is not just a Shein problem: It’s a problem within the entire fast fashion industry. (2)
The Health Risks From The Chemicals in Your Clothing
Marketplace did an investigation of some of the top fast fashion companies such as Shein, Zaful, and AliExpress, among others. They tested 38 samples of various clothing items for children’s, adult, and maternity clothes. Their results showed that one in five items had high levels of toxic chemicals in them. These chemicals included lead, PFAS, and phthalates. One jacket for toddlers from Shein had 20 times more lead than what is considered safe for children in it. Another red purse had five times that limit.
Lead is a naturally occurring chemical in the environment, but at certain levels it becomes toxic to your health. It damages the brain, heart, kidneys, and reproductive system. Infants and children are at the highest risk of lead poisoning from clothing, with pregnant people coming in close behind them. The other issue is that when you wash these clothes, the lead and other chemicals then leak into the water. This water makes its way into our waterways, soil, and environment – including our food.
Lead is typically used to dye certain garments. Experts say there are much safer alternatives, however, often with cheap clothing manufacturers try to make shortcuts that sacrifice human health to cut costs. The other chemicals, such as PFAS and phthalates, are typically used to make clothing stain or water resistant.
Worker and Children’s Health
Sometimes brands or manufacturers will argue that the levels of these chemicals in the clothes are not a threat because you aren’t putting the clothes in your mouth. The issue with infants and children, however, is this is often not the case. We all know that young children and babies tend to chew on or put clothing and other items in their mouths all the time. (3)
Worker health is also a problem. The factories for the majority of these fast fashion brands like Shein and Zaful are found in underprivileged countries and communities. Already, those workers are not typically paid well and don’t have great working conditions. On top of that, they are exposed to all of those chemicals and more while they are working in the factories that produce the clothes. This builds up over time and causes a wide array of health problems – from skin conditions to respiratory diseases. Common Objectives estimates that 27 million people worldwide who work in the fast fashion industry suffer from work-related respiratory and/or skin conditions or illnesses.
It’s not just Shein, AliExpress, or Zaful, either. It’s Lululemon, Old Navy, and even Columbia. The next time you go shopping, do some research into where you are buying your clothes from. Your purchases (or decisions not to buy) could have a huge impact on your health, the health of people around the world, and our planet.
- “Experts warn of high levels of chemicals in clothes by some fast-fashion retailers.” CBC. Jenny Cowley, Stephanie Matteis and Charlsie Agro. October 1, 2021.
- “5 toxic chemicals used in fast fashion clothing, and how they can affect your immune system.” Insider. Allana Akhtar. August 27, 2022,


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After months of learning and debate, the ‘citizens’ assembly’ on climate change has said how the UK should play its part to tackle the problem. The results might come as a surprise.
Don’t be fooled by Tesco’s social media ads – their industrial meat is fuelling the destruction of the Amazon.
From climate change to forest fires to human rights abuses, the global industrial meat industry leaves a trail of destruction all over the world. Millions of people's lives depend on a dramatic reduction in the consumption of meat and dairy. And it’s not just red meat that’s the problem.
When it’s done right, conservation can help to heal our damaged world. Let these conservation success stories inspire you to keep standing up for our home.
Forests around the world hold the key to solving climate change – but the Amazon and its people are more under threat than ever. The key culprit is industrial meat.


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We know that One Plus 6 is all set to release on May 16 and will be available to buy from May 21 exclusively on Amazon, but the official image has been leaked and is floating on the internet.
The photo appeared after being posted by Indian actor Amitabh Bachchan in his Twitter account. The image features Mr. Bachchan and OnePlus CEO Pete Lau.
The Picture shows both handling phone which appeared to be OnePlus 6 in black and white color. As this phone is the most awaited phone for 2018 so fans are quite excited about this leak.
Amitabh Bachchan posted in his Twitter account :
T 2798 – Always a pleasure meeting @petelau2007. Looking forward to attending the #OnePlus6 launch event on May 17
Launch Invites go live today on http://oneplus.in/launch-6 at 10 am sharp! Head to @OnePlus_IN for real-time updates on the launch and the invites!


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The information about Chevrolet's all-new 2014 Corvette is trickling out. First a teaser shot and then a quick video. Today, GM announced that the C7 will get a new small-block 6.2-liter V-8 making an estimated 450 horsepower. The current model's base engine is a 430-hp, 6.2-liter V-8.
The new Corvette will have to live up to some impressive claims. GM said it will be the "quickest standard Corvette ever, with estimated 0-60 performance of less than four seconds" and get better than 26 mpg, which is what the 2013 model rates.
The automaker also claims it'll be the most fuel-efficient Corvette because of the new small block's direct injection and cylinder deactivation systems. The Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation system shuts off four of the car's cylinders in light-load driving. The engine, called LT1, is also lighter and smaller than previous blocks, thanks to the use of more aluminum components and new cylinder head and piston designs.
The new engine will be built at GM's Tonawanda Engine Plant in Buffalo, N.Y. The 2014 Corvette will be unveiled on Jan. 13, 2013, at the Detroit auto show.


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The New Flagship Of The Jeep Will Be A Competitor To The Range Rover
Jeep persists in his intention to produce a model that would stand a notch above the current largest SUV - Grand Cherokee. Full-size SUV should appear Jeep in 2018 and will be a major application for the premium segment.
Guide brand sure that the largest Jeep, which will be called the Grand Wagoneer will be able to recapture the part of buyers from the most popular premium SUV, and first of all the Range Rover. Chapter Jeep Michael Manley said the publication Autocar, he did not doubt the merits of the future model and is confident in its competitiveness.
At the same time, he said, do not be alarmed internal competition with the Maserati Levante is another premium SUV, which plans to release the Alliance of Fiat-Chrysler. Despite the fact that the platform for future innovations overlap, they will be focused on completely different buyers, and the choice of range Rover as the main competitor helps guide Jeep precisely to position its new flagship.
It is also noted that the new SUV from Jeep will get three rows of seats. Earlier it was reported that the Jeep Grand Wagoneer will be the most luxurious model in the entire history of the brand.
Despite the presence in the model lineup of crossover Tuguan, VW may release another crossover, which will become a member of an extensive family of Golf. This can only happen, however, not earlier t...
BMW group continues to expand its line of X-crossovers, with both sides: the flagship of the collection will soon become a large seven-seat X7, but the post entry-level models will shift from X1 to a...
Hyundai plans to expand the model family i20, which currently exists only as a five-door hatch and planned to release trendwerk. The European division of the company was considering the advisability ...
The eye of the photo spies caught a mysterious prototype from Jaguar. Some details of the design of the body suggests that the British manufacturer brought on tests either hybrid or fully electric ve...
Models of BMW and Toyota sports cars of the new generation will be commensurate with the car German automaker Porsche's legendary 911-mu. About this informed the foreign automobile magazine. Sources ...


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Baby monitors which shipped with security flaws that allowed hackers to watch and listen to babies from remote locations have led to an FTC complaint against the company responsible, Trendnet.
Trendnet has agreed to a settlement including a regular third-party security audit for the next 20 years.
The FTC says that the complaint marks its first action against a “connected” product in this category. “ This is the agency’s first action against a marketer of an everyday product with interconnectivity to the Internet and other mobile devices – commonly referred to as the“Internet of Things”.
The FTC alleged that the cameras had faulty software which left them open to being viewed remotely – all attackers needed was the camera’s internet address.
In a case earlier this year, a hacker spied on and insulted a toddler in her bed via a web-connected baby monitor. Marc Gilbert, of San Antonio, said that he saw the baby monitor move and heard a voice say, “Wake up, you little [expletive]”
“The Internet of Things holds great promise for innovative consumer products and services. But consumer privacy and security must remain a priority as companies develop more devices that connect to the Internet,” said FTC Chairwoman Edith Ramirez.
ESET researcher Stephen Cobb says, ““I think the FTC deserves considerable kudos for taking action in the emerging sphere of digital activity often referred to as the “Internet of Things.” As we see more and more digitally-enabled products in our daily lives, connecting to and controlled over the Internet, it is important that the public knows there is an agency charged with policing the veracity of marketing claims about the security of such devices and services.”
Cobb said, “This settlement reminds us that the FTC was quick to police email privacy back in 2001 with the Eli Lily case and, soon after, online authentication and payment services with the Microsoft Passport case.”
Under the terms of the agreement, Trendnet is required to notify consumers of the faults with its camera monitoring system, and to direct them towards a patch which fixes the problem.
Earlier this year, researcher Nitesh Dhanjani demonstrated an attack on a popular “connected” lighting system sold in Apple Store, the Philips Hue, which could be hacked to cause a “perpetual blackout” in the homes of users. Several other researchers demonstrated hacks against “connected” appliances at this year’s Black Hat conference in Las Vegas.
“By 2022, the average household with two teenage children will own roughly 50 such Internet connected devices, according to estimates by the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development,” Dhanjani said “Our society is starting to increasingly depend upon IoT devices to promote automation and increase our well being. As such, it is important that we begin a dialogue on how we can securely enable the upcoming technology.”
Author Rob Waugh, We Live Security


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The total value of digital commerce transactions globally will exceed US$20 trillion (RM91 trillion) by 2027, from US$12.3 trillion in 2022, according to a new study from Juniper Research. — AFP pic
Wednesday, 21 Sep 2022 7:11 PM MYT
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 21 — The total value of digital commerce transactions globally will exceed US$20 trillion (RM91 trillion) by 2027, from US$12.3 trillion in 2022, according to a new study from Juniper Research.
It predicts growth will be driven by increasing acceptance of digital payment methods and technologies that enable digital payments during the checkout procedure, such as Near-field Communication (NFC) payments.
According to a statement, the research anticipates mobile NFC payments will experience the strongest growth in the digital commerce market, with 176 per cent growth in transaction value forecast between 2022 and 2027 globally.
It predicts increasing consumer desire for frictionless payment methods will drive NFC transactions by eliminating the need for consumers to carry a payment card in addition to their mobile device.
The report urges NFC payment vendors to implement solutions that eliminate any unnecessary steps in the payment process.
It also recommends supporting devices that enable biometric identification for payment authentication to reduce the risk of payment fraud in the payment process.
Additionally, the research predicts online shopping will drive digital commerce growth, with the value of eCommerce transactions expected to grow by 82 per cent globally between 2022 and 2027.
Remote purchases of physical goods will experience the strongest growth: 106 per cent in the value of transactions globally during the five-year period.
Juniper Research provides research and analytical services to the global hi-tech communications sector; providing consultancy, analyst reports, and industry commentary. — Bernama


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Netflix Launching Daily Interactive Game Show Based on 'Trivia Crack'
‘Trivia Quest’ will premiere on April 1.
Netflix is launching a daily interactive game show, dubbed Trivia Quest, based on the popular Etermax app Trivia Crack.
Beginning April 1, the streaming giant will release one new episode daily throughout the month, with a total of 30 episodes. Each episode will include 24 multiple-choice questions — 12 standard and 12 “hard” questions — across a variety of topics including science, history, entertainment, sports, art and geography.
Aside from simply answering trivia questions, viewers will be tasked with helping an animal character named Willy save the animated citizens of Trivia Land from a ruthless villain named Evil Rocky. Upon acing a daily quiz, viewers will be able to slowly release prisoners from Evil Rocky’s hold as they reach different checkpoints throughout the series.
Additionally, viewers will have the ability to replay quizzes in order to get the correct answers and continue earning points.
“Each quiz also features a definitive ending but we don’t want to tell you too much about that just yet,” writes Andy Weil, VP of Comedy Series and Interactive Programming at Netflix, in a blog post.
Trivia Quest will launch on April 1 on smart TVs, streaming media players, game consoles, computer browsers, Android phones and tablets, iPhones, iPads and iPod touches. Watch the trailer above.
In case you missed it, Jack Harlow will make his acting debut in the upcoming White Men Can’t Jump remake.


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28 Abril 2017 16:08
Rebranding cheap stuff as designer wear and selling it for a fortune seems to be becoming a trend among the big fashion brands.
The latest to join the bandwagon are Rihanna and Puma, who, with impressive chutzpah, have decided to sell super expensive jelly sides which look suspiciously like the sort of cheap plastic sandals you can buy at almost any marketplace across Asia for $1.
Could Rihanna and Puma be accused of indulging in a spot of cultural appropriation? That might be worth arguing about. But what nobody can deny is that it takes an impressive amount of cheek to charge around $80 for something you can buy on AliExpress for $1.
And isn't it kind of weird that a hip company like Puma is ripping off AliExpress, rather than the other way round?
Meanwhile, across Asia, these plastic slippers are sold at roadside stalls and markets for $1.
The brazenness of Rihanna's move has been a little much for some people to take.
Several people have had fun pointing out what these types of slippers are most often used for in their native countries: going to the toilet.
— Intan (@lackadaisier) April 19, 2017
— cuti.lah (@CutiLah) April 19, 2017
— Hafiz Rashid (@hafizrashid10) April 19, 2017
Rihanna has yet to reveal the price of her new sandals, but considering that her previous footwear came in at a cool $90, we can safely say that her jelly slides will cost a hell of a lot more than a dollar...


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Search For "california"
Updated : 3 years, 9 months ago IST
Washington D.C. [United States], Dec 23 (ANI): In a shocker, an elderly United States' couple have been caught with around 27 kilograms of marijuana which they said they planned to give as gifts.
New Delhi [India], Dec 22 (ANI): A California-based production house is all set to make a movie on Delhi's organ harvesting operation racket.
Washington D.C. [USA], Dec 18 (ANI): Grammy winning singer Keely Smith passed away on Saturday of apparent heart failure in Palm Springs, California at the age of 89.
New Delhi [India], Dec 17 (ANI): Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda was forced to leave a listening party online yesterday because he couldn't bear to listen to his late band mate Chester Bennington's voice without getting upset.
San Francisco (California) [USA], Dec 16 (ANI): Andhra Pradesh Information and Technology Minister Nara Lokesh said on Saturday that the Free Space Optical Communications (FSOC) technology to be brought in the state will enable the state to provide internet facility in rural areas and the tr
San Francisco (California) [United States], Dec 15 (ANI): Google X is ready to set up its Development Centre in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, which will be its first development centre outside the United State of America.
New Delhi [India], Dec 14 (ANI): Finding the perfect holiday gift can be one of the most exciting, if not challenging, parts of the entire holiday season. If you're fortunate enough to live in or visit San Francisco, there are several unique holiday markets where shopping for the holidays be
New Delhi [India], Dec 10 (ANI): Pop sensation Justin Bieber is looking to help those affected in the devastating wildfires in areas of Southern California in whatever way he can.
Indore (Madhya Pradesh) [India], Dec 8 (ANI-NewsVoir): Forever 21, the most loved international fast fashion brand from Los Angeles, California, and part of Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd. achieved a milestone and launched its 21st store in the country today.
Los Angeles (California) [United States], December 07 (ANI): At least four houses were scorched in hilly Los Angeles posh neighborhood Bel-Air, where sprawling villas costing tens of millions of dollars are home to celebrities and other wealthy Angelenos.
London [UK], December 1 (ANI): Popular messaging platform WhatsApp suffered another global outage in less than a month.
Washington D.C. [USA], Nov 29 (ANI): Aiming to lose weight? Publicise your goals on social media!


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First Look: The CB Gelateria, a new gelato-centric addition to the Cheese Boutique
The Cheese Boutique has been a longstanding draw for both chefs and regular folk on the hunt for the perfect fromage. And while plenty of other gourmet options for the cultured palate abound, it wasn’t until earlier this summer that the shop decided to open a gelateria.
The owners bought a Carpigiani ice cream maker and built an addition to the side of the main building. The result? The CB Gelateria, where finely-crafted gelato is shelled out to folks needing a post-shop breather.
The 12 gelato options — all created in-house — are crafted from a combination of locally-sourced milk and fruit along with Italian goods: the chocolate hails from Perugia, Italy, while ladyfingers are from Vicenzovo. For a really indulgent treat, a shot of Leonardi 25-year old balsamic vinegar can be poured over the gelato for $25 (this works especially well with the fior di latte gelato, we’re told).
Priced at $3.76 for a piccolo to $25.44 for un litro, the goods are also labeled in Italiano, with the recipe’s origin noted beneath each flavour. Throughout this first summer of service, staple picks have been lemon, pistachio and fior di latte.
Current seasonal picks are the fragolina (strawberry) and the frutta di bosco (mixed berry), both of which showcase Ontario fruits.
“Right now, we’re thinking of what do to for the Christmas season,” says co-owner Ilir Pristine.
We’re keeping our fingers crossed for some delectable ice cream cakes.
The CB Gelateria, 45 Ripley Ave., 416-762-6292


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ALTEREST, the credit-investment platform, has been selected as one of first four fintech start-ups that will receive free legal advice from City law firm Simmons & Simmons.
The company, which provides data and analytics, is seeking to service both the peer-to-peer finance industry and the banks that are providing funding to P2P platforms.
Simmons & Simmons launched its fintech fund in May this year in order to help early stage fintech businesses solve some of the legal problems they may encounter. The law firm has set aside £100,000 a year to support the startups.
The other businesses that will receive free legal advice are hourly car insurance firm Cuvva, banking platform RailsBank and automated invoicing firm Tallysticks.
Simmons & Simmons said it will provide further details on each of the businesses and their plans later this month.
“We were impressed by the strength of the start-up businesses we met through our evaluation process and we’re delighted to have identified four promising and exciting businesses to work with through the Simmons & Simmons Fintech Fund,” said Angus McLean, partner and head of the firm’s international fintech team.
“For these start-ups, the fintech fund could make a real difference, or could even be what gets them off the ground, and it’s through this support that we hope to make a significant contribution to the wider fintech community.”
To qualify for support through the fund, the fintech businesses must have received no more than £1m of investment and need to have been accepted onto one of the UK fintech accelerator programmes, or have been referred to the law firm by a leading fintech-focused venture capital investor.


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Amazon will deliver more packages in 2023 than anyone, according to a report Monday from the Wall Street Journal. The tech giant is on track to surpass UPS and FedEx in shipping volume this year, and it seems fitting that a tech giant will undoubtedly ship more gifts than anyone this Cyber Monday.
There’s a quiet changing of the guard in the delivery sector. Amazon is on track to deliver 5.9 billion packages in 2023, according to internal projections seen by the Wall Street Journal. That would surpass the 5.3 billion packages delivered from UPS and 3.3 billion from FedEx in 2022, which neither company expects to break in 2023. What started as a logistics-obsessed electronic marketplace for books has grown into the largest shipping company in the world.
Amazon pulled slightly ahead of UPS in shipping this year, a byproduct of its absolute dominance in online retail. Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday is the biggest e-commerce weekend of the year. The company sold nearly 500 million items during the holiday weekend in 2022, breaking all previous records. The Seattle tech company dominates over 37% of the online retail market. The next largest retailers combined—Walmart, Apple, and eBay—control less than half of Amazon’s market share. Amazon’s fulfillment dominance is a long-planned vertical integration, part of a larger effort to control all steps of its business.
Last month, Amazon announced it would hire 250,000 U.S. employees this holiday season to meet the needs of its growing delivery service. Meanwhile, UPS recently cut its 2023 projections for package volume, citing weakened demand around its holiday season. UPS shares touched their lowest stock in three years last month, as the UPS drivers’ ongoing fight for fair wages showed up in earnings. UPS’s struggle with its workforce occurred in the shadows of Amazon’s expanding fulfillment business.
Also on Monday, Amazon narrowly avoided a flare-up with labor rights groups. A 20,000-person strike from Spanish warehouse and delivery workers was settled just hours before Cyber Monday deals began flowing in. Reuters reports that Amazon reached an agreement with workers in Spain on the busiest online shopping day of the year, and caved to negotiate on improved pay and work conditions.
The Cheapest NBN 50 Plans
It’s the most popular NBN speed in Australia for a reason. Here are the cheapest plans available.


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ACE Products & Consulting Honored as a 2018 Cleveland Technology Award Recipient
Ravenna OH, February 19, 2019 – ACE Products & Consulting, an accredited, independent testing and R&D laboratory, was named as a 2018 Cleveland Technology Award Honoree by Smart Business Magazine. The Award recognizes companies in Northeast Ohio who demonstrate innovative business practices to remain on the cutting edge of technology. Smart Business also described the competition by noting that they honor scrappy startups, established technology firm leaders and implementers of technology that demonstrates how they address the new horizon experienced every day in new ways – where the old way of doing things, even as recently as five years ago, feels like a generation gone by. Honorees will be recognized at a luncheon to be held March 7, 2019 at the Cleveland Marriott East.
“Our focus at ACE is always about serving customers with unmatched excellence,” said Erick Sharp, CEO and President ACE Products & Consulting. “Being recognized by Smart Business’ Cleveland Technology Awards is an honor that validates our pursuit to utilize new technology or existing technologies in new ways that produce better results with quicker turnaround times.”
Sharp noted that ongoing investment in testing – utilizing new methodologies in software and training – is always at the forefront of the company’s industry commitment. ACE’s long-held goal, to share its new approach in testing and training with the industry, is a continuing initiative. For more information, contact Erick at 330-577-4088.
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Folger Nolan Fleming Douglas Capital Management Inc. lowered its stake in Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) by 0.1% during the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 180,850 shares of the iPhone maker’s stock after selling 115 shares during the period. Apple accounts for 2.9% of Folger Nolan Fleming Douglas Capital Management Inc.’s holdings, making the stock its 6th largest holding. Folger Nolan Fleming Douglas Capital Management Inc.’s holdings in Apple were worth $24,769,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of AAPL. University of Texas Texas AM Investment Managment Co. bought a new stake in shares of Apple during the second quarter worth about $27,000. Milestone Resources Group Ltd boosted its position in Apple by 57.7% during the 2nd quarter. Milestone Resources Group Ltd now owns 216 shares of the iPhone maker’s stock worth $30,000 after buying an additional 79 shares during the period. Pinz Capital Management LP bought a new stake in Apple during the 1st quarter worth approximately $72,000. Kessler Investment Group LLC increased its position in Apple by 585.7% in the 2nd quarter. Kessler Investment Group LLC now owns 576 shares of the iPhone maker’s stock valued at $79,000 after acquiring an additional 492 shares during the period. Finally, Geo Capital Gestora de Recursos Ltd raised its stake in shares of Apple by 135.6% during the first quarter. Geo Capital Gestora de Recursos Ltd now owns 655 shares of the iPhone maker’s stock valued at $80,000 after acquiring an additional 377 shares during the last quarter. 56.38% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.
A number of analysts recently weighed in on the company. Cowen restated an “outperform” rating and issued a $180.00 price objective on shares of Apple in a report on Wednesday. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on Apple from $166.00 to $168.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 28th. DZ Bank reiterated a “buy” rating on shares of Apple in a report on Tuesday, August 10th. Fundamental Research raised their price target on shares of Apple from $144.27 to $163.99 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a report on Tuesday, August 31st. Finally, UBS Group set a $175.00 price objective on shares of Apple in a research note on Monday, September 13th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and twenty-six have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of “Buy” and an average price target of $161.68.
Shares of NASDAQ AAPL opened at $146.06 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.65, a current ratio of 1.06 and a quick ratio of 1.01. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $148.54 and a 200-day moving average price of $135.45. The stock has a market capitalization of $2.41 trillion, a P/E ratio of 28.58, a P/E/G ratio of 2.10 and a beta of 1.20. Apple Inc. has a 1 year low of $103.10 and a 1 year high of $157.26.
Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Monday, July 26th. The iPhone maker reported $1.30 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the Thomson Reuters’ consensus estimate of $1.01 by $0.29. The business had revenue of $81.40 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $73.48 billion. Apple had a net margin of 25.00% and a return on equity of 131.01%. The firm’s revenue for the quarter was up 36.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.64 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Apple Inc. will post 5.59 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.
The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, August 12th. Investors of record on Monday, August 9th were given a dividend of $0.22 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, August 6th. This represents a $0.88 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.60%. Apple’s payout ratio is 26.83%.
Apple, Inc engages in the design, manufacture, and sale of smartphones, personal computers, tablets, wearables and accessories, and other variety of related services. It operates through the following geographical segments: Americas, Europe, Greater China, Japan, and Rest of Asia Pacific. The Americas segment includes North and South America.
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British Gas has stunned households across the UK by announcing a rise in gas and electricity prices of 18% and 16%, just eight months after it raised its prices by 7%.
The increase, which will affect 9 million customers and be effective from 18 August, provoked energy minister Chris Huhne to today demand change in the UK electricity market.
At a time when households are struggling with soaring food bills amid persistently high inflation, the price rise will add £192 to the average annual dual fuel bill, which will increase from £1,096 to £1,288 as a result.
Mike O'Connor, chief executive of Consumer Focus, said: "This price rise will send a shock wave across the country. The impact on customers will be severe, piling more pressure on severely stretched household budgets and pushing hundreds of thousands more households into fuel poverty."
The news comes on the same day Scottish & Southern Energy (SSE) announced it is suspending all its doorstep sales activity in Great Britain with immediate effect, leading to 900 job losses. Two months ago the utility giant was found guilty of misleading potential customers when doorstepping them in a bid to get them to switch gas and electricity supplier, following a successful prosecution by trading standards.
SSE said commission-based doorstep selling is "no longer an effective way to gain customers for the long term", because consumer confidence in the way companies sell on doorsteps, and the way in which salespeople are remunerated, is low. It also said it was closing its doorstep sales arm because the sales process "rightly requires increasingly significant customer safeguards".
Alistair Phillips-Davies of SSE said: "The world has moved on. We understand that fewer people are willing to engage with traditional doorstep sellers."
Richard Lloyd, executive director at Which?, welcomed SSE's move: "Very few people think energy suppliers are trustworthy, so it's good news that SSE is listening to consumers and trying to restore its reputation. As energy suppliers consider their policies on doorstep selling, it is important they don't simply shift their efforts to other forms of cold calling.
"We found that almost half (44%) of people have been phoned by an energy company in the past 12 months, and six in 10 felt pressured to switch, so suppliers should be focusing on better value products and customer service, rather than hard selling."
'Unwelcome but unsurprising announcement'
British Gas last increased its prices in December by 6.9% (or £43) for gas and 6.7% (£28) for electricity. In total, within a year its customers will have seen their bills rise by £258 or 25%. This compares with the £239 or 21% increase seen by Scottish Power customers last month.
British Gas blamed steep rises in wholesale costs, which have increased 30% since last winter because of a higher global demand for gas, driven by increased consumption in Asia and the impact on supply of unrest in the Middle East and north Africa. It said customers could benefit from free loft and wall cavity insulation, free energy use monitoring, and flexible payment terms.
British Gas managing director Phil Bentley said: "We know there is never a good time to raise prices, but we are buying in a global energy market and have to pay the market rate."
But consumer groups were outraged. Which?'s Lloyd said: "This is an unwelcome but unsurprising announcement for British Gas's millions of customers. Many people are already having to cut back on essentials because of the rising cost of living, and with energy bills rising further this could be a cold winter for many."
Ann Robinson of uSwitch.com said there was a danger the move could lead the remaining four major suppliers to follow suit with price increases – the first round of rises which ended in March hit almost 28 million customers and added £630m on to household energy bills.
Robinson said: "The impact on family budgets will be huge, but it will be particularly hard on those living on fixed incomes, and I would urge both suppliers and the government to start thinking now of how they can provide some support.
"It may seem a long way ahead, but winter will be coming too quickly for those who cannot afford their fuel bills."
Earlier this week, energy secretary Chris Huhne held a summit with small energy suppliers to find out what help they need to break the dominance of the big six gas and electricity companies and help keep domestic energy prices down. His plan is to cut the red tape that makes it difficult for smaller energy companies to compete with the big six providers.
Huhne said today: "Britain's consumers are being buffeted by the violent and unpredictable winds of global fossil fuel prices. I refuse to stand by and watch this happen. I'm pushing the big six suppliers to help their customers overhaul their draughty homes and understand the best tariffs on offer, and I'm backing new entrants to bring more competition to the market.
"The UK electricity market has to change so that we escape the cycle of fossil fuel addiction. Alternatives like renewables and nuclear power must be allowed to become the dominant component of our energy mix."
Shadow energy secretary Meg Hillier said: "Today's announcement is bad news for bill-payers across Britain. Just as their belts cannot get any tighter, a whopping increase in energy bills will be landing on their doormats. It's unfair, and many will feel they are being ripped off.
"Enough is enough. David Cameron is sitting on his hands whilst our gas and electricity bills soar. It is time for the Competition Commission to launch an investigation into the stranglehold the big six energy suppliers have on the market. The Tory-led government have failed to act on behalf of the public. Customers' household budgets are at breaking point, and this unfair British Gas price hike is the last straw."
The British Gas managing director of services and commercial, Chris Jansen, said on Sky News this morning that he is happy for customers to email him at email@example.com and he will respond personally.


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Visual Generation, Shutterstock
The metaverse is coming… at some point, in some fashion. The latest stage in the evolution of the internet has captured the imaginations of millions: many mock it, some hope to profit from it, and others see the metaverse as a chance to (literally) invent entirely new worlds.
For an episode of the popular podcast “Welcome to the Metaverse,” L’Atelier BNP Paribas CEO John Egan joined host MetaverseLuke to discuss what the metaverse might look like in the years to come. Diving deep into the roles that social media companies and Big Tech will play in shaping this new digital frontier, the two explore how life will change because of the metaverse.
Will these changes be for better or for worse? And is it still possible for ordinary people to benefit in the process? Listen to the full episode for free on Apple Podcasts and other popular platforms.
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Is the NFT market about to collapse?
That might be premature, but the industry is certainly changing.
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Royal College of Physicians or RCP in Wales disagrees and does not support the ban on electronic cigarettes in public places. The chairman of the Tobacco Advisory Group at RCP, Professor John Britton, said that tobacco legislation is inappropriate for the electronic cigarettes.
The public ecig ban was proposed by the Welsh Government. According to the doctors, the devices could help in significantly reducing smoking rates and prevent untimely and unnecessary deaths. RCP disagrees with the Welsh government’s ecigarette ban in enclosed public places because the devices are way out of smoking for many smokers.
Yes To Regulation No To Prohibition
RCP supports regulations for the devices. However, the doctors group supports not the plan of the government on ecigarette ban.
RCP stated that based on available evidence, the group believes that ecigs can help reduce the prevalence of smoking. Eigs have the potential to prevent many deaths as well as episodes of grave and serious diseases. The social inequalities in terms of health brought about and exacerbated by tobacco smoking, RCP said, can also be reduced.
RCP Statement On Electronic Cigarettes
According to the released statement of the RCP, tobacco remains the biggest public health issue in the UK. There are 100,000 deaths occurring each year and for each death there are also 20 smokers suffering from smoke-related diseases.
Several reports have been published by the RCP to advocate for harm reduction for the tobacco smoking people. It was in 2007 when the group published a report particularly on harm reduction in nicotine addiction. Since the report was published, the use of ecigarettes has rapidly grown and emerged.
It is recognized by RCP that ecigs and other novel nicotine delivery devices could offer an affordable effective and easily available retail alternative to the conventional cigarettes. Harm reduction could become a reality through these innovations. This was proposed in the RCP’s 2007 report.
The group also recognizes that the latest products also present probable risks and opportunities for the health of an individual and the entire population. Thus, it advocates for a proportionate regulation that could maximize the overall benefit on public health.
Proportionate Ecigarette Regulation
Regulations must ensure that the products will deliver nicotine safely and effectively. They must also ensure that the promotion and advertising do not focus or target young people and non-smokers. Advertising and use should also not undermine the smoking prevention policies. Thus, RCP supports regulations of ecigs as medicines.
Ecig use in the UK must be closely monitored so that trends that will counter public health are identified and addressed promptly.
Ecigs As Medicine?
One article has been previously written by Global Health, Economics, and Development senior fellow Thomas Bollyky on how ecigs can be saved. He wrote that there are benefits that the ecig industry could reap benefits if the devices are treated as medicines rather than tobacco.
As medicines, ecigs can avoid high taxes and innovations would probably not become too hampered. Yet, there are also probable disadvantages from being regulated as medicines. Medicinal regulations, like tobacco product regulations, involve high expenses that many small ecig companies would not be able to afford.
As medicines, ecigs also need to compete with almost saturated medical devices and medicines industry. It will also be inconvenient for smokers to access the devices that they believe could save them from their doom.
Regulated as medicines, ecigs will no longer be as freely available as they are now. As medicines, smokers need to first see their doctors and then ask for a prescription. Vape shops and specialty ecig stores and other stores selling ecigarettes would most likely just close down since only pharmacies could sell the approved smoke cessation ecigarettes. If product quality and safety are the concerns of experts, medicinal regulations are most likely not the only way to ensure these with electronic cigarettes.