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Maruti Gets Approval To Set Up 3rd Manufacturing Plant In Haryana
Maruti Suzuki recently received permission from the Haryana government to set up a new manufacturing plant in Sonipat. The government allowed Maruti Suzuki to build the plant on 900-acre land. This will become the 3rd plant for Maruti Suzuki in Haryana alone and 4th if you count the one in Gujarat.
India’s #1 carmaker is losing market share in recent years. Maruti’s share dropped from around 50% to 34%. It’s unclear if this is because of the impact from the pandemic or from stiff competition, which is only getting stiffer by the day. 50% market share is what they can achieve when they’re running their existing plants to a decent capacity. If Maruti Suzuki want to set up a new plant, then this must be because they’re looking to grab a considerably-more-than-50% market share in the next few years and this decade.
They currently have a combined manufacturing capacity of over 20 lakh units per year. Some of it is exclusively for exports.
While Maruti are likely to soon launch CNG versions of most of their cars, this move alone may not bring in enough volumes to regain lost ground in market share let alone to justify setting up a new plant. The carmaker is possibly looking into bringing diesel engines back as they still have a substantial demand in the Rs. 10 lakh+ segment. Meanwhile, the new plant may exclusively serve electric cars.


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After a long wait for UK residents, especially PC gamers, GAME UK has announced it will be stocking Steam’s in-store funding solution for Valve’s digital distribution service.
Available in amounts of £5, £10, £15, and £20 (with an introductory 33% off extra Trade-In value if used against one), the voucher codes can be purchased in-store and then redeemed on Steam for use to purchase games in the store, much like XBOX Live’s points system, but without the hassle of trying to understand the conversion rate. Alongside this announcement, a large number of GAME stores will also be providing in-store tablet devices so customers can browse Steam’s digital library of games. GAME CEO Martyn Gibss was reported by Games Industry International saying:
“We are delighted to be partnering with Steam as we look to grow our PC gaming communities together. The partnership forms a significant part of our increased offering for any PC gamer which will also include a full digital catalogue available on tablets in store to browse and new ways to pay for digital downloads, making the process easier and more secure than ever.”
This, and other news, has been a great turn-around for GAME group. After their recent troubles earlier this year, they seem to be on the rise once more, and extra retail support for the PC market will be most welcome by the gaming community.

domain: news


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By Waman Parkhi
The Union Budget FY22 attempts to be a ‘Reforms Budget 2.0’. It not only talks of disinvestment, but also speaks of the government getting out of most of the sectors and even from the four core areas identified for government presence. That is a huge change in mindset long after the disinvestments we saw in early 2000s. The finance minister used the word ‘privatisation’ of public undertakings (para 9 of her speech) which alone sets this Budget apart. The government’s resolve to monetise its assets right from roads, airports, transmission lines and pipelines to railway assets and stadia speak of a government that values efficiency of the economy over control. With ’no new taxes’ despite Covid-19 pandemic and a contracted economy, this Budget creates a positive sentiment for the economy to grow and with that for the automotive sector that contributes to half of industrial GDP.
Production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes were earlier announced for 13 sectors, including automobile and auto components, which would be the biggest beneficiary of PLI, with a proposed outlay of Rs 57,042 crore (almost 30% of the total PLI outlay). The scheme is under discussion and would be in public domain soon. The biggest win for the auto sector is the announcement of the much-awaited scrappage policy, for phasing out old and unfit vehicles. As part of this, personal vehicles would undergo fitness tests after 20 years and commercial vehicles after 15 years. Besides contributing to lower emissions and improving safety on the roads, it would also uplift demand for vehicles. The policy is being implemented on a voluntary basis at present.
The scrappage policy would also have a spillover impact on auto component manufacturers. Those who supply majorly to OEMs would see a spurt in sales, while those catering only to after-sales market may see a dip as the requirement of spares will reduce. The same will be the impact on the services sector and workshops. Scrap generated will positively impact steel prices, which have heated up substantially in the last six months. Moderation of steel prices, in turn, will have a positive impact on components industry, which uses a lot of steel. Scrappage of old internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles would open up opportunities for new electric vehicles (EV), and that will have a cascading impact on the components industry, as EVs have much fewer parts. The impact of the scrappage policy will, therefore, be complex and not as linear as it appears to be.
As part of the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, customs duty rates on certain auto parts (safety glass, electrical lighting and signalling equipment and goods such as lithium-ion cells) have been enhanced to promote domestic manufacturing. In the short run, this may result in additional cost burden for the sector, but in the medium to long run it should lead to increased value addition and localisation in the country. It may also lead to reduction in litigation due to rate parity among auto parts.
The Budget lays importance on improving ease of doing business, trade facilitation, digitisation and growth of MSMEs. Key features of tax proposals that deserve a mention are removing mandatory requirement for getting annual accounts audited, reduction in time for income tax proceedings, constitution of a dispute resolution committee, faceless income tax tribunal, etc. Auto component manufacturers are likely to benefit from these.
While there are no direct incentives for EVs, the proposed outlay for clean air of Rs 2,217 crore for 42 urban centres with a million-plus population could be used for spreading awareness on EVs. The outlay of Rs 18,000 crore for public buses could be used for electrification of public transport and may help in boosting demand for commercial EVs.
Overall, the Budget is a mixed bag for the automobile industry with the announcement of the scrappage policy, tax facilitation measures and some increase in customs duty on components. Even before Covid-19, the sector was suffering on account of low demand, change in emission norms, etc. While the industry has exhibited signs of recovery in Q3 of FY21, it expected more support from the government for a speedy recovery. Some specific demands such as income tax deduction for R&D expenditure and reduction in GST rates to make vehicles more affordable have remained unattended. However, if the increased government spending translates into increased consumption, the benefit should percolate to the auto industry. Meanwhile, it awaits faster roll-out of the PLI scheme and the scrappage policy.
The author is partner, Indirect Tax, KPMG in India
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Pessimism among UK businesses soared following Britain's decision to vote in favour of leaving the European Union, a survey released on Tuesday (5 July) showed.
According to data published by YouGov and the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR), the number of businesses feeling pessimistic about the economic outlook over the next 12 months jumped from 25% before the vote to 49% in the week following the referendum.
Last month, Britons voted 52% to 48% in favour of leaving the 28-country bloc, a decision which has plunged the country into political and financial turmoil, sending the pound to fresh lows. Businesses, meanwhile, have urged the government to outline a clear plan to deal with the Brexit aftermath and to ensure the impact on the economy is minimised.
"These figures [....] suggest a significant shock reaction [to the Brexit vote]," said CEBR director Scott Corfe.
"Not only are businesses feeling much more pessimistic in general about the state of the economy, but their own expectations for domestic sales, exports and investments over the next 12 months have gone off a cliff."
The survey also found UK businesses were more pessimistic about their business prospective, with 26% of the 1,000 respondents concerned over the business outlook, compared to 16% in the lead-up to the vote.
Investment, domestic sales and exports are all expected to decline sharply this year, the survey showed.


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80% of the harassment captured in the video occurs in either Harlem or Times Square.
Creating an economy where only the rich and their low-income service workers can survive.
The Fuhrer wants his coffee light and sweet.
The number of warrants issued is growing every year.
Special K: not just for cats and ravers anymore.
We bet you already knew that Germans drank the most beer, though.
You get out of line, you get whacked.
“He who controls the spice controls the universe.”


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The world's largest retailer says Bill Simon is leaving the company and will be replaced by Greg Foran, the President and CEO of Walmart Asia.
Walmart U.S. has struggled with sales recently, growing at the slowest rate in almost five years.
"We need to run better stores and we need to figure out how to generate more sales for our business going forward. And Greg's going to be able to come in and provide a fresh perspective to our business and help us really identify and unlock that growth for our customers," says David Tovar, V.P. of Communications of Walmart.
Walmart says Simon will leave his post in a couple of weeks.
However, he will remain available on a consulting basis for the next six months.
Copyright 2016 Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.


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Volkswagen AG's settlement with nearly 500,000 U.S. customers and government regulators over polluting diesel vehicles is valued at more than $15 billion cash, two sources briefed on the matter said on Monday.
The settlement, to be announced on Tuesday in Washington, includes $10.033 billion to offer buybacks to owners of about 475,000 polluting vehicles and nearly $5 billion in funds to offset excess diesel emissions and boost investment in zero emission vehicles, the sources said.
A separate settlement with nearly all U.S. state attorneys general over excess diesel emissions will be announced on Tuesday and is expected to be more than $500 million and will push the total to over $15 billion, a separate source briefed on the matter said.
Spokeswomen for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Volkswagen (VW) declined to comment.
The settlement stems from the German automaker's admission in September that it intentionally misled regulators by installing secret software that allowed U.S. vehicles to emit up to 40 times legally allowable pollution.
The deal, based on the largest ever automotive buyback offer in U.S. history and most expensive auto industry scandal, will move VW close to the 16.2 billion euros ($18 billion) it has set aside to cover the costs of the scandal.
Though about $5 billion higher than previously reported, the settlement gives firm details of costs in the United States where VW faces the bulk of expenses for its wrongdoing, more than nine months after the scandal broke.
"The deal looks reasonable and it will end uncertainty," said London-based Evercore ISI analyst Arndt Ellinghorst who has a "buy" rating on VW stock. "We expect the market to be OK with the higher number."
VW shares jumped as much as 4.7 percent on the news and were trading up 2.9 percent at 109.2 euros by 1002 GMT.
But criminal and civil legal action is still pending in other countries, while European governments are demanding VW offer similar compensation to the owners of 8.5 million rigged cars in the region, adding to risks that the costs could climb.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, due to court-imposed gag rules, the first sources said owners of 2.0 liter diesel VW 2009-2015 cars would receive at least $5,100 compensation along with the estimated value of the vehicles as of September 2015, before the scandal erupted. Some owners will get as much as $10,000 in compensation, the first sources said, depending on the value of the car.
The $10.033 billion is the maximum VW could pay if it had to buy back all vehicles, but the actual amount VW will pay could be much less if a large number of owners don't take buybacks.
Prior owners will get half of current owners, while people who leased cars will also get compensation, said the first sources.
Owners would also receive the same compensation if they choose to have the vehicles repaired, assuming U.S. regulators approve a fix at a later date.
The settlement includes $2.7 billion in funds to offset excess diesel emissions and $2 billion in VW investments in green energy and zero emission vehicles, the first sources said.
The diesel offset fund could rise if VW has not fixed or bought back 85 percent of the vehicles by mid-2019, the first sources said.
The $2 billion in green energy and zero emission efforts will be spent over 10 years, the first sources said, and will include zero emission vehicle infrastructure.
VW still must reach agreement with regulators on whether it will offer to buy back 85,000 larger 3.0 liter Porsche, Audi and VW cars and SUVs that emitted up to nine times legally allowable pollution and how much it may face in civil fines for admitting to violating the Clean Air Act.
Erik Gordon, a University of Michigan business professor, said: "VW had little negotiating power, given the evidence. The costs of the remedies should make automakers cautious about misleading people in ways that give prosecutors the ability to bring criminal charges. Potential criminal charges mean you open your wallet in the civil actions, hoping to receive leniency instead of jail time."
Reuters reported earlier the initial VW settlement would not include civil penalties under the U.S. Clean Air Act or address about 85,000 larger 3.0 litre Audi, Porsche and VW vehicles that emitted less pollution than 2.0 litre vehicles. A deal covering the 3.0 litre vehicles may still be months away.
The settlement does not address lawsuits from investors or a criminal investigation by the Justice Department.
Regulators will not immediately approve fixes for the 2.0 litre vehicles - and may not approve fixes for all three generations of the polluting 2009-2015 vehicles, sources previously told Reuters.
Owners will have until December 2018 to decide whether to sell back vehicles and fixes may not eliminate all excess emissions.
VW cannot resell or export the vehicles bought back unless the EPA approves a fix, Reuters reported last week.
VW, the world's second largest automaker, has seen U.S. VW brand sales suffer in the wake of the crisis. VW brand sales are down 13 percent in the United States in 2016, while sales of its luxury Audi and Porsche units have risen.
U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer in San Francisco will hold a hearing on July 26 to decide on whether to grant preliminary approval to the settlements. If granted he would hold a later hearing to give final approval. Buybacks are likely to start no earlier than October, the first sources said.
VW had said the scandal impacted 11 million vehicles worldwide and led to the departure of CEO Martin Winterkorn.
German prosecutors said this month they were investigating Winterkorn and a second unidentified executive over whether they effectively manipulated markets by delaying the release of information about the firm's emissions test cheating.


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Last week there were a number of reports that the anti-phishing technology built into the Mobile Safari web browser shipped with Apple’s iPhone OS 3.1 software doesn’t actually work.
Researchers at Mac security firm Intego reported that it “extensively tested this feature, tossing dozens of phishing URLs at it” before concluding that the touted anti-phishing protection “simply does not seem to work.”
However, it appears that that conclusion may have been a little premature. Reporters at The Loop quizzed Apple about the alleged problem, and received an official response claiming that users were not using the proper process to update their protection against phishing websites:
"Safari's anti-phishing database is downloaded while the user charges their phone in order to protect battery life and ensure there aren’t any additional data fees," Apple spokesman, Bill Evans, told The Loop. "After updating to iPhone OS 3.1 the user should launch Safari, connect to a Wi-Fi network and charge their iPhone with the screen off. For most users this process should happen automatically when they charge their phone."
So, there you have it.
If you want to update the anti-phishing protection on your iPhone all you need to do is launch Safari, connect to a Wi-Fi connection (3G won’t be sufficient), charge your iPhone and turn the screen off.
This doesn’t seem the most simple and intuitive procedure in the world to me – and as many many new phishing websites are found every day, it’s hard to imagine that iPhone owners are going to keep themselves properly up-to-date.
Mind you, as many other smartphones don’t offer even the most elementary form of anti-phishing protection to their users, maybe we shouldn’t be too hard on Apple.
* Image source: TRD JZX100’s Flickr photostream (Creative Commons)


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2 local responses to national increase in banned books
Last updated 10/20/2022 at 11:23am
To Michelle Bear, owner of Edmonds Bookshop, the increase in banned books nationwide is nothing new.
In fact, Edmonds Bookshop has been bringing awareness to books that are banned for the last 10 years with a Banned Books Week window display featu...
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The international team of doctors called the use of the popular sweetener aspartame, one of the reasons set overweight. The study is published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, briefly about it informs New Scientist.
Scientists within 18 weeks, mice fed a fatty meal. The first half of rodents also gave sugar, the second - aspartame. After completion of the experiment, it was found that animals of the second group gained more weight than in the first. Also, the rodents which gave aspartame, was observed between meals higher than the rest, blood sugar - one of the symptoms of diabetes type.
Previously, scientists have shown, he writes "to Lenta.ru" that the use of aspartame alters the balance and functioning of the intestinal microbiota of man, and also leads to the development of metabolic syndrome. In particular, this is the sweetener blocks the production of alkaline phosphatase.
Scientists propose to conduct research on humans. Experts not exclude that aspartame can still be used for weight loss, but in conjunction with the reception of additional products, particularly those that contain alkaline phosphatase.
See also ... 17/02/2015 Are sugar substitutes dangerous? 12/07/2016 Scientists: lack of water contributes to obesity 22/11/2016 Salad made of plastic packaging was considered dangerous 24/07/2015 Top-5 products that protect against breast cancer 23/06/2016 Is it good to take small portions of food frequently? 07/09/2015 Is alcohol good for small doses? 09/02/2015 Best sources of protein for vegetarians 25/03/2015 Konjak is a diet plant: pros and cons 15/01/2016 For our health, you need to change the time of dinner? 24/07/2015 Secrets of losing weight - slow absorption of food 13/10/2016 Deficiency of high Christmas tree diet 06/08/2015 Spicy food prolongs life 10/02/2015 Black cumin - a medicine with a thousand-year history 10/08/2015 Chicken meat affects male fertility 18/08/2016 Can a large amount of salt save migraines


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Wyre, the US-based regulated blockchain fintech company that recently partnered with the Plasma DEX Altcoin.io, announced the acquisition of a blockchain solution for smart contracts on the Bitcoin blockchain.
The possibility of executing simplified smart contracts on the Bitcoin blockchain came to wider awareness only recently with an article from Bitcoin Magazine, showcasing the product of Particl.io.
The solution Wyre is acquiring was developed by Hedgy, a Bitcoin derivatives startup that raised 1.2 MM USD in seed funding in 2015 from a group of investors including Sand Hill Ventures or Tim Draper, who was also one of the early investors in Wyre.
The co-founder and CEO of Hedgy Matt Slater is now also joining Wyre as an advisor, helping Wyre with the aim of offering a derivatives software product that is compliant with federal commodity laws and regulations.
Read more at blog.sendwyre.com.
Industry Releases from #BusinessOfCrypto
- LocalCryptos, the non-custodial p2p platform, added a crypto-to-crypto exchange feature
- Montenegro to embrace blockchain technology in efforts to join the EU
- The Global Hackaton (April, Los Angeles) comes with free tickets to Crypto Invest Summit
- Etheremon celebrating #ChineseNewYear2019 with a series of bounties (Ends 8:00 AM UTC on Feb 11th)
- Crypto Marble dApp Game: Monopoly on Blockchain
- The dApp gaming platform VX Network launched the official VX Wallet in Apple App Store and Google Play
- Etheremon's first Chinese New Year Campaign: Chance to recall two rare mons
- Fuel Games and Cryptokitties bring you "The Cat in the Pack" until the end of January 2019
- Action RPG dApp game Hero of Cryptoworld is starting its character presale
- Libereum, the crypto investment company, acquired Spanish football club Elche CF


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The German forestry and timber industry was already in a state of emergency before the coronavirus pandemic: storms, drought and bark beetles have been threatening the industry for over two years. The German companies had already reached their limits in order to cope with the amount of damaged wood and now need support, while the current coronavirus crisis is exacerbating the situation. According to a German Sawing and Timber Industry Federation (DeSH) survey, 70% of the German sawmill companies are already negatively affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Between 2018 and 2020, storms ...
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Mini-car maker Smart USA said Tuesday it will test electric vehicles powered by a battery made by Tesla Motors Inc. in San Jose and a handful of markets this fall.
Smart is owned by Daimler AG, which has a stake in Palo Alto-based Tesla. The cars will have a 16.5-kilowatt-hour battery pack made by Tesla.
In addition to San Jose, the company said it plans to lease 250 electric cars to businesses, organizations and other in Portland, Ore.; Indianapolis; Orlando, Fla.; and the Washington, D.C.-Boston corridor.
This follows a test that was started last year in Europe and will be rolled out in Asia next year when it plans to have a test fleet of 1,500 electric cars. Smart plans to sell electric cars to the general public the following year in 2012.
A four-year lease will cost $599 a month and the cars would have a projected range of 82 miles. Their maximum speed would be limited to 62.5 miles per hour.


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Dozens of Microsoft companies, together with Groups, Xbox Reside, Outlook, and the Microsoft 365 suite, can be found to 1000’s of customers world wide. Microsoft has acknowledged the glitch and mentioned it’s engaged on a repair.
Based on DownDetector, a preferred device that displays service reliability, customers began reporting availability points with a number of companies together with Microsoft 365, Outlook, Groups, Minecraft, Azure, GitHub, and the Microsoft Retailer about an hour in the past (2:30 AM PT).
The Microsoft standing web page for Workplace 365 presently states that “Customers could not be capable of entry a number of Microsoft 365 companies.” Along with the companies reported by customers, the corporate mentioned that SharePoint On-line, OneDrive for Enterprise, and Microsoft Graph additionally skilled outages.
“We have now recognized a possible community concern and are reviewing telemetry information to find out the following troubleshooting steps,” the web page says.
Microsoft laid off 10,000 staff final week in response to “macro circumstances and altering buyer priorities.”
“As we now have seen prospects enhance their digital spending through the pandemic, we are actually seeing them streamline their digital spending to do extra with much less,” Nadella wrote in an e mail to staff. “We’re additionally seeing organizations throughout all industries and areas seem cautious as some elements of the world are in recession and others are anticipating it.”
He added that, traditionally, the corporate has needed to make these sorts of “onerous decisions” to remain related in an trade “that’s unforgiving for many who do not adapt to platform adjustments.”


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By: Michael Carey
Welcome to Apple Apex. This weekly column will feature the biggest need-to-know stories for fans and users of all things Apple. Check back weekly for the latest news, rumors, and leaks on everything Apple.
(PRODUCT)RED iPhone 8, 8+ Revealed
As first leaked from a Virgin Mobile UK Employee Memo, Apple has revealed a new color to join the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8+ family – (PRODUCT)Red. Following similar vocabulary to last year, Apple is releasing the new color as the succeeding year’s iPhone is being ready to be revealed in a few months.
The new colors are solely for cosmetic purposes only, meaning that buying a (PRODUCT)Red iPhone is solely for the choice of color. But what makes these iPhones different, is the cause that is behind it. For every (PRODUCT)Red accessory or device Apple sells, a portion of the sales is donated for HIV/AIDS relief in eight African countries.
Last year, Apple revealed the (PRODUCT)Red iPhone 7 and iPhone 7+ in March. MacRumors is reporting that Apple may have waited until April so all sales of the new (PRODUCT)Red iPhone’s can be fully reflected in the sales for the third quarter, which typically is a slow period for Apple.
In addition, Apple also revealed an iPhone X (PRODUCT)Red Leather Folio case that will retail for $99.
Pre-orders for the new (PRODUCT)Red iPhone’s are open now, and the Folio case is available for pre-order as well. Deliveries of these products, as well as in-store pickup, will begin Friday.
Apple also put together a TV AD for the new iPhone (PRODUCT)Red editions, which can be seen below
Screen Replacements bricking iPhones
iPhone users that are running iOS 11.3 and have had their screens replaced by a third-party are facing new problems with their devices.
First reported by Vice, iPhone 8 users are claiming that those who are using their phone with a third-party screen are no longer working.
Apple has always kept a strong grip on iPhones in terms of repairs. If Apple opens your phone and finds any third-party parts, they have the right to charge you to replace those parts according to an anonymous Apple Employee in New Jersey.
When Apple (or a third-party company) has to replace your screen, they must also upgrade the microchip inside your phone. If the chip is not upgraded to meet the new screen, the touch inputs on the device will not respond to any touch, rendering the device useless according to 9to5Mac. TouchID will unlock your phone still, but your touch screen will not be able to be used.
Repair shops all together are beginning to stop repairing not only iPhone 8’s but also Apple’s flagship iPhone – the iPhone X. Allegedly, replacing the ambient light sensor and or the camera, will disable FaceID all together, a major selling point for the iPhone X.
Apple has yet to comment on the situation and has not confirmed if they plan to release a fix.
Modular Mac Pro is coming
Video editors, animators, and graphic designers rejoice! Apple has reassured its customers that the Mac Pro is not being discontinued and that an all-new Mac Pro is currently being developed.
An interview with TechCrunch with Apple SVP Phil Schiller revealed that developers were “hungry” for evidence that Apple hasn’t forgotten about them. The current Mac Pro is currently reaching its 5th year of in production and the sales figures have not been where Apple was projecting. In response, Apple has formed the “Pro Workflow Team” to head the development of the new Mac Pro.
No technical specifications have been revealed yet, but we could see a sneak peek of the new Mac Pro at WWDC in June. Apple gave developers a sneak peek on stage in 2013 in June at WWDC which was met with great fanfare. The Mac Pro lost half its size, and this brand new beautiful designed housing. Its main draw was an emphasis on cooling – with a Thermal Core. The heat from each of its 3 sides of the boards would be sucked into the center of the unit, and then blown out the top, getting rid of heat faster, and keeping the noise of the new Mac Pro at half the level of the previous generation Mac Pro.
There are a few reasons why the Mac Pro has not been the raging success Apple was hoping for. The main reason is its lack of upgradability. Users can only upgrade certain things, such as the RAM in the unit. This is a big reason why Schiller revealed that the current plans do show a modular design. While it is a minority group who would utilize this (i.e. Developers), Schiller reaffirmed that developing new hardware for the “Pro” level customers is still a priority.
The current base price of a Mac Pro sits at $2999.
One More Thing… Where is AirPower?
Back in September, Apple threw their hat in the ring of Wireless Chargers.
AirPower, Apple’s wireless charging mat, is big enough to charge an iPhone, your Series 3 Apple Watch, and the yet to be released AirPods wireless charging case.
This is Apple’s solution to a headache that can be charging up to 3 devices at the same time, with three separate cables. It’s a great idea… the question is now – Where is it?
Apple promised a 2018 launch window and there were rumors circulating that the end of March could have been the timeframe. Apple has not released any details about the mat and its availability.
This is not the first time that Apple has teased a product, and waited a long time to release them. AirPods, the Mac Pro, and the iMac Pro all have had similar release windows. It comes down to the simple fact that Apple does not follow any timeframe, but their own.
In terms of how much this will be, again, Apple has been silent on those details. A Polish retailer, as reported by 9to5Mac, suggested a price of $199 for the mat, which is priced out of range of the most common wireless chargers that typically fall below $100. There is also no confirmation is Airpower will be an “Apple Only” device, such as the HomePod, meaning that only Apple devices are capatable.
Samsung patented their own wireless charging pad, that can charge either 2 Samsung Galaxy devices, or one Galaxy and a Samsung Galaxy Gear watch.
Thank you for checking out Apple Apex. Check back weekly for the latest news, rumors, and leaks on everything Apple.
Disclaimer – Michael Carey and WHIP Radio are in no way affiliated with Apple.
Michael is an award-winning radio host at WHIP Radio. He has been a staple host on WHIP’s Wake Up Call, and has recently occupied the role of Program Director for the station.


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The U.S. Supreme Court rejected appeals by Visa and MasterCard to overturn a ruling that they violated antitrust rules by barring banks from issuing cards on rival networks.
American Express, which agreed in January to create cards for select MBNA Corp. customers, plans to debut its first cards on the network in the coming weeks, according to a company statement. American Express Chief Executive Kenneth Chenault said in a memo to employees, "We plan to add more partnerships with other issuers on a selective basis."
Discover, a unit of Morgan Stanley, said it has been in "advanced discussions" about issuing cards through financial institutions. In addition, Discover filed a federal lawsuit against Visa and MasterCard seeking "triple damages for the harm that those violations caused us," according to a statement by Chief Executive David Nelms.
The High Court's ruling today puts to rest a six-year-long battle that began when the U.S. Department of Justice sued Visa and MasterCard in 1998. U.S. District Judge Barbara Jones ruled against the two credit card issuers in October 2001.


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After being observed targeting smart homes just two months ago, the Hide ‘N Seek Internet of Things (IoT) botnet is now capable of infecting Android devices.
First detailed in January by Bitdefender, the botnet originally targeted home routers and IP cameras, but later evolved from performing brute force attacks over Telnet to leveraging injection exploits, thus greatly expanding its list of targeted device types.
Featuring a decentralized, peer-to-peer architecture, the botnet was able to abuse the various compromise methods to ensnare over by May.
In early July, Hide ‘N Seek was OrientDB and CouchDB database servers, and the malware evolved into targeting a remote code execution vulnerability in HomeMatic Zentrale CCU2, the central element of from the German manufacturer eQ-3.
Bitdefender now says that newly identified samples of the malware target the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) over Wi-Fi feature to infect devices.
Normally used for troubleshooting and supposedly disabled by default, on commercially available Android devices, exposing them to attacks on TCP port 5555. The issue resides with vendors neglecting to disable ADB when shipping devices.
“Any remote connection to the device is performed unauthenticated and allows for shell access, practically enabling attackers to perform any task in administrator mode,” Bitdefender Senior Cybersecurity Analyst Liviu Arsene .
Hide ‘n Seek, however, is not the first malware to target the Android devices found to be shipping with ADB enabled. In July, a botnet was observed attempting to ensnare these devices .
With the addition of this new capability, Hide ‘n Seek might be able to amass at least another 40,000 new devices, Arsene believes. Most of the potentially affected devices appear to be located in Taiwan, Korea and China, while some of them are in the United States and Russia.
While some of the devices with ADB enabled might be hidden behind routers, the fact that the routers themselves are among the most vulnerable Internet-connected devices suggests that it’s not only Internet-facing Android devices that are at risk.
“It’s safe to say that not just Android-running smartphones are affected — smart TVs, DVRs and practically any other device that has ADB over Wi-Fi enabled could be affected too,” Arsene notes.
He also points out that Hide ‘n Seek’s operators are likely seeking new means to ensnare as many devices as possible, although they haven’t revealed the true purpose of the botnet just yet.


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This September, New Holland Brewing in Holland, Michigan continues its national emergence by launching in one of the most populous states on the East Coast. The award-winning creator of craft beer and spirits has been positioning itself to expand its territory by recently completing a $3 million expansion of its production facility, tripling fermentation capacity. This has increased their ability to respond to market demand for its innovative products.
For complete listing of all eight Georgia Launch Parties, happening Sept. 24-27th, visit New Holland Brewing Co.’s Facebook event tab.
The launch will expose Georgia consumers to New Holland’s recognized flagship beers, such as Mad Hatter IPA and Dragon’s Milk Bourbon Barrel Stout, as well as other consumer favorites such as Ichabod Pumpkin Ale (a popular seasonal) and The Poet Oatmeal Stout. New Yorkers and Georgians will also be introduced to New Holland’s signature spirits, including Knickerbocker gin, Hatter Royale Hopquila, and Dutchess Citrus vodka. New Holland’s unique line of whiskies, such as Zeppelin Bend and the soon-to-be released, Beer Barrel Bourbon will follow in coming months.
“It’s an incredible time to be a craft producer of beer and spirits. The demand for our products has been tremendous and has greatly outpaced our capacity, so for the last few years, we chose to decline new markets until we could “come packin’,” stated V.P. of Sales and Marketing, Fred Bueltmann, aka “The Beervangelist.”
“Beyond the growth, which has been remarkable, we’re even more excited to feel the warm welcome shown towards quality. Wholesalers, retailers and consumers are more passionate and educated than ever before. Interestingly enough, they’re all hungry to learn even more and try new things.”
The launch takes place on September 24-27 in Atlanta, through United Distributors, with an initial kickoff at “The Fred” on Monday night, 9/24.
In celebration of this launch, New Holland and Terrapin Beer Company of Athens, Georgia collaborated in late August to brew a beer made with Michigan wheat. The brewing teams, led by NHB brewmaster/owner Brett VanderKamp and Terrapin brewmaster/owner Spike Buckowski made a draught-only Weizenbock (available throughout Atlanta and in New Holland’s Pub, while supplies last).
“We do important work,” said Brett VanderKamp, New Holland’s founder, “creating drinks that elevate everyday occasions into unique experiences. Art can change the world, and for fifteen years we’ve been creating art in fermented form. When audiences in cities like Atlanta—one of the most dynamic stages in America—taste what we create, it will change their understanding of what beer and spirits can be.”__
If you have questions, or need additional information, please contact Megan at email@example.com.


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GMO Free NY Mascot Bucky TomatoActivist Stacie Orell doesn't want Americans to be dining in the dark anymore when it comes to GMOs (genetically modified organisms). She just finished her Masters in Environmental Conservation at NYU and is a co-founder and campaign director for GMO Free NY. The grassroots group is pushing the New York State Assembly and New York State Senate to pass legislation stipulating that GMO food offered for retail sale in the state must be labeled as such. The vote has to happen on or before June 20th when the current session ends.
How is it looking right now?
The Assembly bill has 42 members in favor right now out of 150. It's currently in committee and we just learned a few minutes ago that it will be considered on Monday by the Committee on Consumer Affairs and Protection. If they approve it then it will go to another committee and then to the floor for a vote before the whole assembly.
I see your official mascot is a labradoodle named Bucky Tomato.
He's my dog. I just wanted to inject a little humor into an otherwise serious conversation. He's photogenic so I decided to make use of him.
Does he eat any GMO dog food?
I don't really know since it's not labeled but I don't feed him anything with corn or soy products or any other GMO culprits.
Since the GMO labeling ballot failed to pass in California last year, what makes you think labeling has a chance in New York?
I think there's a lot of momentum right now nationwide in response to the failure in California. We've seen a lot of activity in Connecticut, Maine and Vermont. Washington State has its own ballot initiative coming up in November. A GMO labeling bill has been introduced in every session of the New York State Assembly since 2001 and this is the first time it's been in committee. Before it always died a quiet death. Our bill has great support now because of the increasing awareness and outrage about how we're not allowed to know what's in our food.
Why do you think labeling is important?
Due to lax regulation on the part of the FDA and undue corporate influence from the biotech industry, we've been eating GMOs without our knowledge since 1996. That's when they became part of our food supply. I don't want to be an unwitting guinea pig for the biotech industry. Everyone has a right to know what's in their food so I'm advocating for a label. Once we realized the FDA wasn't stepping up to the plate, we saw it was time for the states and other advocates to do something.
Do you think it made a difference when Whole Foods recently announced they were going to require GMO foods sold in their stores to be labeled?
I think a lot of people assumed Whole Foods wasn't carrying products with GMOs so it's increased public awareness. It's great they made this announcement but it doesn't go into effect until 2018 and I hope we'll have a federal law in place before that.
With the Monsanto Protection Act, Congress seems to have completely sold out to Monsanto lobbyists.
It seems that way if you look at the vote number. Our own Senator Gillibrand voted against the amendment that would have repealed the Monsanto Protection Act. A lot of us aren't very happy with her right now. Seventy-one senators voted against repealing it. Senator Schumer voted in favor.
There's a fear that GMO foods could give rise to superweeds and superbugs.
There are environmental concerns. The bulk of these products have been developed by Monsanto as a means to sell their pesticides. The reality is that the weeds have evolved into superweeds and farmers have to use more Roundup and more toxic pesticides to control them. They leech into the water and we are now eating the toxins. The question is: Is it harmful or not? I don't know. Therefore, I want to be able to choose so I can avoid it.
I read that over 60 countries have enacted laws banning or mandating labeling of GMOs. The EU has been labeling GMOs since 1998. Why are we so far behind?
Because of money. My personal opinion is that our government is in bed, in certain regards, with biotech industries. We are the home of Monsanto and Dupont and there's big business in growing GMO crops. It's patented so farmers have to pay for it. All the chickens and pigs and cows are eating GMO animal feed. Historically, the U.S. is more reactionary, recalling products when there's harm done. Europe is more precautionary.
What can people do?
Go to our Facebook page where we have daily action alerts. Yesterday was Take-Your-Petition-to-Work Day. We're having a benefit on Monday where people can learn more, plus win raffle prizes and get amazing drink discounts. We're doing this on a volunteer basis out of our own pockets. We are going to Albany in a week and a half to lobby state senators.
Is Bucky Tomato making the trip?
He doesn't like long drives. He gives support in spirit.
For more info about labeling GMOs and legislation in New York, go HERE.
More information about the benefit for GMO Free NY on Monday, June 3rd, go HERE.


text: Just to let you know, the industry is heading into some pretty unpleasant supply chain bottlenecks as globally, we begin recover from the pandemic. These issues are already beginning to hit us on some third party branded products. Manufacturers can't get hold of raw materials, as there is insufficiant supply capacity to meet the huge pent up demand. It's affecting all sectors, but in our sector, there is a major shortage of polymers, affecting some paints, sundries and plastics. There are also major issues with steel and aluminium which is impacting prices. Some of the problems are amplified by Brexit which is impacting customs and tariffs.


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5 reasons why Amazon might have bought Twitch
Google buys Jetpac “Neural Network” firm
Apple buy talk/podcast app Swell?
Is Google trying to buy Spotify? Here’s why a deal would be great for both companies.
Facebook expands further in mobile, buys Snaptu
Facebook has acquired Snaptu, a company focused on developing and delivering online services for mobiles, the companies have confirmed. Facebook said the deal was "part of our goal to offer people around the world the opportunity to connect and…
Facebook goes for mobile, buys group messaging service Beluga
Facebook has taken another step towards becoming our first point of internet contact by buying messaging group Beluga. Beluga is a developer of mobile applications and web systems, enabling users to send instant group messages via SMS. Founded less…
Disney tucks into social media world by buying pre-teen network Togetherville
The Magic Kingdom is now coming to the world of social media as Disney has bought Togetherville, TechCrunch has confirmed. This is a social network for kids under the age of ten, where parents sign up their children to…
How Facebook nearly bought Twitter
When it comes to Social Networking sites, Facebook is the current undisputed king. When it comes to microblogging and ‘status update’, however, Twitter rules. Facebook knows this, which is why it offered US$500 million’s worth of stock to Twitter, three weeks ago, to buy it.
Fortunately, or unfortunately, depending on your perspective, Twitter rebuffed the offer. There were concerns that $500 million of Facebook stock wasn’t actually worth $500 million, as well as worries over how Facebook would integrate the service into the site.
Lastly, it seems that Twitter wants to have a go at seeing if it can make any actual revenue itself first, before letting someone else try. After all, despite having considerable outgoings in server, SMS and staff costs, Twitter doesn’t actually make any money at all. Yet.
AOL combines Bebo, AIM, ICQ into "People Networks", looks to expand globally
A couple of months from AOL’s announcement of its intentions to buy Bebo, the $850m deal has been sealed.
Though exact details of future plans and money involved isn’t clear, it seems AOL is keen to push Bebo into other countries, particularly those in Europe, as well as creating “People Networks”, a new community platform combining Bebo, AIM, and ICQ…
AOL buys Bebo: ready for more CDs through your letterbox?
Social networking sites are definitely the hot virtual property of the moment, with news today that AOL is buying Bebo for a cool $850m.
Bebo is still the most popular social networking site in the UK and Ireland, and globally has over 40 million members, though in the US it’s in third place behind MySpace and Facebook…


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Edelweiss decodes sustainability for MSMEs as part of International MSME Day
Eminent panellists share views on how to leverage emerging opportunities in the new normal
Mumbai: Edelweiss SME Lending celebrated its third consecutive edition of International MSME Day through a virtual webinar comprising a panel of industry experts. The theme of the panel discussion was ‘MSMEs: New Heroes in the New Normal!’
Rashesh Shah, Chairman & CEO, Edelweiss Group said, “The last 4-5 years have been truly transformative for MSMEs, with the introduction of GST, the India stack and formalisation of the sector and economy. COVID-19 has impacted the MSMEs but it could also potentially be a trend accelerator for the business. The pandemic is opening up fresh opportunities for businesses to script better stories of success. The current economic condition is an opportunity to recalibrate, retest and most importantly repivot. We need to view the current context and the India story with a bi-focal lens, one that balances these short-term challenges, with the long-term opportunity.”
The current situation has posed several challenges to the spirit of entrepreneurship. Survival of business in the long-run and getting payments from clients, remain the top two concerns for SMEs and retail businesses. The webinar sought to acknowledge the contribution of MSMEs in light of current challenges, while leveraging this as a platform to share insights and expertise on what to expect in the near future and thrive, in the new normal that awaits us.
Panellists included Mr. Mehernosh Tata (Head, Edelweiss SME Lending), Mr. Sunil Srivastava (Ex Dy MD, State Bank of India; Sr. Advisor Edelweiss & World Bank), Mr. Navin Chandani (MD & CEO, CRIF High Mark), Mr. Shailendra Kawade (Promoter & Chairman, Mylab Discovery Solutions) and Mr. Vikas Dimri (Director, SME Head – Trade & Working Capital, Deutsche Bank).
In his closing remarks, Deepak Mittal, CEO Credit, Edelweiss Group, said, “MSMEs are realising that business models will need tweaking, be it in delivery or servicing, in demand aggregation or in digitizing payments. Reinvention and reimagination, have now changed in their definition. MSMEs should seize this opportunity to reconnect with their customers and rethink their proposition. This is a time to be nimble and MSMEs can be far quicker, to leverage emerging opportunities vis-à-vis larger enterprises.”


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If you're planning on plopping a few impatiens into your garden before summer ends, be cautious.
A disease called impatiens downy mildew, which first appeared in Europe a few years ago, has spread to some states around the country, including Ohio. The disease only infects Impatiens walleriana. But these flowers are the extremely popular petite beauties that gardeners rely on to bring a burst of white, pink, purple and other candy colors to their landscapes from spring until fall.
The disease doesn't infect SunPatiens or New Guinea impatiens, say horticulturists, nor does it spread to other plants.
In April, the Ohio State University Extension published a report about the disease. You can read it at bygl.osu.edu/print/166.
Symptoms of the disease are white spores under leaves and the plant being slightly paler than a healthy plant, says Jacqueline Kowalski, extension educator at Ohio State University's Extension for Cuyahoga County. The disease isn't considered to be an epidemic, but it spreads easily via wind and rain.
Wet, cool evenings are perfect for the disease to spread, says Randy Zondag, OSU Extension commercial horticulturist.
Planted impatiens showing symptoms should be dug out, bagged in plastic and disposed of, say Kowalski and Zondag. Don't plant more impatiens now or next year in soil where infected plants have been, but other plants are OK to plant there.
"It [the disease] stays in soil for many years," Kowalski says. "It's very persistent."
There is no treatment.
"People are going to be asking, 'What should we spray?' " says Zondag. Disposing of the infected plants and cleaning up the area where they grew is the only option, he adds.
Even though impatiens downy mildew isn't widespread in this area, some growers and retailers are being cautious.
"I doubt I will be growing impatiens next year, and that's about 25 percent of my crop," says Scott Kollman, owner of Kollman's Greenhouse Inc., a wholesaler and retailer in Twinsburg. "Other growers are saying that, too."
Jeff Griff of Lowe's Greenhouses, Florist & Gift Shop in Chagrin Falls says he had three customers who found signs of the disease on their plants, but it wasn't a huge problem.
"We're nowhere near not growing them," he says.
Barb Walters of Gale's Westlake Garden Center, says her impatiens have been sold out for some time and they showed no signs of the disease. As for whether or not she'll carry impatiens next spring, she'll have to wait and see.
If the disease spreads in this area, it could be a big disappointment to the many gardeners who love impatiens for their hardiness, color and compatibility with other plants.
"No other flowers give as much color and variety," says Kollman. "We've already told them [customers] that we're not going to have impatiens next year and they're going to have to find something else. What that something else will be, I don't know."
Griff is optimistic about the future of impatiens because state and other agriculture departments are looking for fungicides to protect the plants from the mildew.
"I don't think we're going to get to where impatiens are a thing of the past," says Griff. "At least, not yet."
To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: email@example.com, 216-999-4427


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Ladenburg Thalmann lowered shares of CTI BioPharma Corp (NASDAQ:CTIC) from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research note issued to investors on Wednesday, The Fly reports.
CTI BioPharma Corp. (NASDAQ:CTIC) belongs to Healthcare sector. Its weekly performance is -5.88%. On last trading day company shares ended up at $0.60. CTI BioPharma Corp. (NASDAQ:CTIC) distance from 50-day simple moving average (SMA50) is 2.58%.
Groupon, Inc. (NASDAQ:GRPN) announced that it sold its one billionth Groupon, putting the company in the same group as Apple, McDonalds, Uber, The Beatles, Elvis and other brands and icons that have achieved the billion-sold milestone. The billionth Groupon sold was an $11 for $20 promotion for pizza and Italian food at Pirrone’s Pizzeria in the St. Louis area.
Groupon, Inc. (NASDAQ:GRPN) shares moved up 4.29% in last trading session and ended the day at $4.86. GRPN Gross Margin is 44.40% and its return on assets is 1.00%. Groupon, Inc. (NASDAQ:GRPN) quarterly performance is 69.34%.
On 27 February, NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA) is reportedly preparing to debut its next generation Pascal graphics cards at GTC in April with a product launch at Computex in June. Let’s first start with the scheduled debut and demo at this upcoming GTC in April. Whispers have reached us of NVIDIA planning to showcase a Pascal graphics card at the show for the very first time.”
On 03 March, NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA) shares moved down -0.88% and was closed at $32.65. NVDA EPS growth in last 5 year was 20.20%. NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA) year to date (YTD) performance is -0.58%.
On 25 February, Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:PPHM) announced that it is discontinuing the company’s Phase III SUNRISE trial of bavituximab in patients with previously treated locally advanced or metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:PPHM) ended the last trading day at $0.33. Company weekly volatility is calculated as 13.96% and price to cash ratio as 1.06. Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:PPHM) showed a weekly performance of -68.99%.
ACADIA Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:ACAD) ahead of a key Food and Drug Administration (FDA) meeting later this month. Specifically, the Psychopharmacologic Drugs Advisory Committee will meet on Tuesday, March 29, to discuss ACAD’s application for its Parkinson’s-related psychosis treatment.
ACADIA Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:ACAD) shares moved up 5.40% in last trading session and ended the day at $21.46. ACAD return on assets is -51.20%. ACADIA Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:ACAD) quarterly performance is -42.79%.


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"When you're an Australian farmer, you're on the world stage."
That's the sage advice of Nhill prime lamb and wool producer Andrew Colbert as he reflects on the worst drop in prices since the global financial crisis.
The coronavirus has forced disruptions to International supply chains, and in turn, a dramatic dip in fashion retail sales, meaning wool prices have dropped by more than 30 percent.
"I auctioned my last lot of wool about three months ago," he said.
"It paid about a third less than it normally would, and it was the better-scored merino wool.
"A one-third drop on 1200 cents a kilogram is a big hit."
On June 25, the Eastern Market Indicator closed at 1100c/kg, down by 605 cents (35.5%) a year earlier.
"Wool and lamb are like any other non-essential commodity, such as crayfish, duck," he said.
"We deal in first-cross merino ewes and second cross lambs - we're prime lamb first - and prime lamb has also dropped 25% in recent months."
Prime lamb (30kg+) closed at 684.8c/kg crashing down 31% from prices just 12 months earlier (985.9c/kg).
Mr Colbert said he didn't see COVID-19 impacting on prime lamb or wool markets as much as it did.
"Australian sheep numbers are at 100-year lows, so we thought the market would still be good.
"It's simple supply and demand; we should have kept those numbers up.
"But 70% of sheep raised in Australia goes overseas, and we are price takers, not price makers."
He said the prime lamb market also took a massive hit in 2008, during the Global Financial Crisis.
"We're no stranger to dramatic price drops," he said.
"When you're an Australian farmer, you're on the world stage.
"There are a thousand factors that contribute to the prices we see.
"A government on the other side of the world can make a decision that will impact wool prices in Victoria.
"Grain, wool, lamb - they have all copped a whack. We roll with the punches."


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March 8, 2013 (Foster City, CA) - A new survey by CarInsurance.com finds drivers would be willing to trade a lot of their privacy in return for a discount on their car insurance rates.
The survey of 500 licensed adults found nearly two-thirds would agree to install a breathalyzer in their cars if an insurance discount were the result.
“Insurance companies are already dabbling with these technologies,” said CarInsurance.com managing editor Des Toups. “But clearly they could push the envelope even further than they are now.”
The driver survey found that, in return for a discount:
There are no discounts currently for breathalyzers, speed governors, in-car cameras or cellphone disabling devices.
”Of course, a driving record that doesn’t have a DUI or speeding ticket on it will mean cheaper insurance rates,” Toups said.
But insurers are rapidly rolling out what are known as pay-as-you-drive plans, he said, with substantial discounts for installing devices that monitor driving habits, the number of miles driven and the time of day the driver is on the road. (See “Pay-as-you-drive insurance plans.”)
Drivers in the survey were also asked about discounts for safety systems.
Of those three items, Toups said, only antilock brakes typically result in a discount. Most discounts currently stem from demographic factors, he said, with education, marriage, military service and even profession affecting rates.
See CarInsurance.com’s complete “Guide to Discounts” at http://www.carinsurance.com/car-insurance-discounts.aspx.
CarInsurance.com commissioned a survey of 500 licensed drivers over age 18. Participants were asked 10 true/false questions and demographic information. The survey was fielded in January 2013.
CarInsurance.com has been offering drivers expert advice about car insurance and how to shop for it since 2003. Using a combination of industry expertise and information drawn from thousands of online quotes delivered without obligation each month, CarInsurance.com is a source for unbiased answers and data about what consumers should expect from an insurance policy. The site lets consumers compare multiple car insurance quotes online and purchase a policy online in minutes. CarInsurance.com is owned and operated by QuinStreet, Inc. (NASDAQ: QNST), one of the largest Internet marketing and media companies in the world. QuinStreet is committed to providing consumers and businesses with the information they need to research, find and select the products, services and brands that best meet their needs. The company is a leader in visitor-friendly marketing practices. For more information, please visit QuinStreet.com.


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PepsiCo Announces Agreement to Sell Tropicana, Naked, and Other Juice Brands for $3.3 Billion; Bolthouse Farms' Bill Levisay Provides Insight
PURCHASE, NY - PepsiCo rocked the newswires yesterday, as the big-name brand announced it had entered into an agreement with PAI Partners to sell Tropicana, Naked, and other select juice brands in its North American portfolio as well as an irrevocable option to sell certain juice businesses in Europe. Combined, the deal will result in pre-tax cash proceeds of $3.3 billion for the company.
"This joint venture with PAI enables us to realize significant upfront value, whilst providing the focus and resources necessary to drive additional long-term growth for these beloved brands," said PepsiCo Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ramon Laguarta. "In addition, it will free us to concentrate on our current portfolio of diverse offerings, including growing our portfolio of healthier snacks, zero-calorie beverages, and products like SodaStream, which are focused on being better for people and the planet."
As part of the agreement, PepsiCo will retain a 39 percent non-controlling interest in the newly formed joint venture, according to a press release. PAI, which is a leading private equity firm with experience in the food and beverage sector, will become majority shareholder of the transferred business, with PepsiCo retaining exclusive U.S. distribution rights to the brand in its chilled Direct Store Delivery for small-format and foodservice channels.
The juice brands delivered approximately $3 billion in net revenue in 2020 with operating profit margins that were below PepsiCo’s overall operating margin for the year. The popular company expects to use the proceeds from the sale of the assets to strengthen its balance sheet and make organic investments in business.
"We are delighted to bring these storied beverage brands into the PAI portfolio through another partnership with a leading global food and beverage company. We believe there is great growth potential to be realized through investments in product innovation, expansion into adjacent categories, and enhanced scale in branded juice drinks and other chilled categories," commented Frédéric Stévenin, a Managing Partner at PAI. "We are also thrilled that PepsiCo will remain involved as our partner in the joint venture as we execute our plans to drive the future success of these brands."
Pending customary conditions being met, including works council consultations and regulatory approvals, the transaction is expected to close in late 2021 or early 2022.
With such a sizeable move occurring in this sector, another major player in the super-premium refrigerated juice category, Bolthouse Farms, weighed in on the recent news.
"Bolthouse Farms welcomes competition as we believe this helps to make healthy, nutritious fresh foods and beverages more accessible and available to more consumers across North America," Bill Levisay, President, shared with me. "We have been an innovation leader in growing and distributing fresh carrots and produce, as well as high-quality, juices, smoothies, beverages, and dressings, for more than 100 years. As a strong, privately-owned Bakersfield, California-based, company, we look forward to continuing as a leader in the produce space, helping make healthy foods and beverages available to a wide range of consumers."
How will this major sale impact the trajectory of the sector? Stick with AndNowUKnow as we bring you the latest insights.


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Upper Deck is bringing back National Hockey Card Day in February in both Canada and the United States.
Collectors can head to any participating shops and get free packs of cards. The event takes place in Canada on February 9. American collectors have to wait a week as their National Hockey Card Day is February 16, which coincides with Hockey Weekend in America.
Like last year, each country has its own unique set. The Canadian checklist includes 15 cards, all of which feature players in Team Canada uniforms. A 16th card of Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux at the 1987 Canada Cup is available with a purchase.
Select Toys 'R Us and London Drugs stores in Canada will also be in on the promotion, offering one of five different over-sized cards with purchase.
The American set also has 15 main cards that are inserted in packs. The checklist includes a mix of top American stars and other top players who play for American NHL teams. The 16th card, which is available with a purchase, shows Kings goalie, Jonathan Quick, with the Stanley Cup.
2013 Upper Deck National Hockey Card Day packs come with five cards. Collectors can also look for randomly inserted autographs.
Click here for a list of participating stores in both the United States and Canada.
2013 Upper Deck National Hockey Card Day Checklist
Wayne Gretzky/Mario Lemieux
Canadian Over-Sized Checklist
|Making purchases through affiliate links can earn the site a commission|


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Baby Archie Steals The Show In Harry And Meghan's Christmas Card
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex probably could’ve sat out this year’s Christmas card — because little Archie is the real star
Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor may only be a baby, but he’s already among our favorite royals, because look at him. Understandably, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle (the Duke and Duchess of Sussex if you want to get fancy with titles) work to keep him mostly out of the limelight, living as normal a life as a royal baby can possibly live. Thankfully, they don’t totally hide him from the camera, because he’s pretty much the cutest thing going and the world loves to see him. We got a new look at his precious face when the couple released their 2019 holiday card, and it’s perfection.
Thanks to The Queen’s Commonwealth Trust, a charity of which Harry and Meghan are President and Vice-President, we got to see Archie’s sweet face — and his proud parents in the background in front of the Christmas tree. Honestly, they could’ve just let the little guy handle it on his own this year, because he’s fully ready to steal the show. All the shows. He’s way too adorable.
He’s closing in on eight months old, and it looks like the tiny royal is already getting his carpet cruise on — that’s the face of a very determined baby out to touch something he’s not supposed to. We love it.
The card is actually a gif, and there’s a note at the very bottom saying that Harry and Meghan chose to do an electronic card this year, which is very green and environmentally-friendly of them. Too bad a bunch of people are probably going to screenshot and print it out anyway because it’s just that cute.
Even though we rarely see Archie’s full face, the Duke and Duchess have made sure to let us in on some big moments in his first year of life. Like his christening.
For Mother’s Day, we got to see his tiny feet.
And Father’s Day brought us this sweet image of Archie clinging to his father’s finger. Our hearts.
As much as we respect the royals’ right to privacy, we totally delight in seeing these gorgeous babies as they grow up. We’ll take whatever peeks they’re comfortable giving.
This article was originally published on


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The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today imposed new rules on broadband Internet Service Providers (ISPs) aimed to protect consumer privacy.
The new rules require ISPs to distinguish between what the FCC calls “opt-in” and “opt-out” categories of collected data:
- Opt-in: This is a category of information that is considered sensitive, including precise geo-location, financial information, health information, children’s
information, social security numbers, web browsing history, app usage history and the content of communications. The ISPs are required to obtain affirmative “opt-in” consent from consumers to use and share this information with 3rd parties like advertisers.
- Opt-out: This category is for less sensitive individually identifiable customer information – for example, email address or service tier information. ISPs would be implicitly allowed to use and share this non-sensitive information unless a customer “opts-out.”
The rules also set requirements for broadband providers to follow the industry best practices for customer data security, disposal, and breach notifications.
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Most Chinese telecom providers will update existing PON with XG-PON and XGS-PON, a plan that could impact the pricing of NG-PON2 worldwide.
"We expect that China Telecom will continue to evaluate the use of 10 Gbit/s EPON, XG- and XGS-PON going forward, while China Mobile will focus on XG- and XGS-PON," said Alam Tamboli, senior analyst at the Dell'Oro Group, who recently spent time in China, visiting service providers and vendors.
Without widespread adoption by Chinese vendors of NG-PON2, it will be more challenging for other nations' service providers to realize anticipating volume savings of this technology, he said. The sheer size of the Chinese market can create -- or not create -- enough volume to generate volume savings, Tamboli noted.
"If the models that others have put out for NG-PON2 for price erosion are based around China adopting NG-PON2 then those price models have an inherent error in them," he said. "You won't have those volumes in NG-PON2 anytime soon. If volumes don't come up enough, pricing won't come down."
At 75% saturation of households, China still has room to grow (the United States, for example, has 80% saturation), said Tamboli. Chinese providers have reached most metropolitan areas and now must expand into rural and more challenging parts of the country, he said.
There are about 450 million households in China; the top three Chinese operators -- China Mobile (with more than 35 million new subscribers in 2017); China Unicom (with 1.3 million net adds last year), and China Telecom (which added 10.4 million new customers in 2017) -- represented about 339 million in the fourth quarter of 2017, according to Dell'Oro.
The Chinese government advocates the use of fiber -- in part because of the critical role fiber plays in 5G.
"It is clear that demand in China will not be the driver of broadband access revenue growth that it has been the past half dozen years. China subscriber numbers are coming closer and closer to market saturation every quarter," Tamboli said. China Mobile, which has seen the largest subscriber growth numbers anywhere... is expecting 2018 to be a much slower year with 'only' 21 million net additions for fixed broadband subscribers in the year."
To further cement his view, Tamboli pointed to Huawei's position that its carrier segment -- which includes multiple technologies such as PON, routers and mobile RAN -- will see only moderate growth in 2018.
— Alison Diana, Editor, Broadband World News. Follow us on Twitter or @alisoncdiana.


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With Brexit looming and the deal still up in the air, there is a lot of political and economic uncertainty. The UK is due to leave the EU on March
This date falls right before our beloved Easter holidays, which leads us to question how Brexit will impact our travel plans? Here, we answer some of UK nationals top travel questions and concerns post-Brexit.
Are package holidays a safer bet?
Package holidays are easy and cost-transparent. They promise a fixed price and maybe are slightly more reassuring. Of
Surely the ferry is not affected?
Ferry transportation is governed by international maritime law. Air travel might be something more heavily affected than ferry travel. But custom checks as a result of a no deal would lead to some exceedingly long queues whether travelling by ferry or air.
Shall I book a non-EU destination?
You should still be able to travel to the same places as before. But maybe now is a good time to try somewhere new and tick off a few bucket-list locations – learn about a new culture and go sightseeing! How about a trip to Dubai? Or Egypt?
Costs are only going to increase?
Yes and no. We all want to go on that perfect winter escape to the mountains, and with the fall of the pound against the euro, costs may increase. But also, due to the economic uncertainty, people may hold off going on holiday, with a focus on saving their disposable income. This may have an effect on airfare prices and there
Higher mobile phone roaming charges?
We’ve embarked on an exciting new era of no roaming charges and everything accessible on our phones, from the basics like cameras and maps to compasses and other travel essentials. Companies are increasingly focusing on building websites that have a high mobile site speed to make life easier when you’re on the road including booking accommodation, renewing travel insurance and mobile banking. However, a report from the Association of British Travel Agents and Deloitte says using your phone abroad might become more expensive if Britain leaves the EU.
What documents will I need?
The European Commission has said that in a no-deal case, UK travellers will not need a visa. British people will need to apply for/ buy another document to travel to member states, post-Brexit. For now, you can carry on without any extra documents. EU citizens and UK nationals will continue to be able to travel freely with a passport or identity card until the end of the transition period in 2020. Beyond that, the European Commission has offered visa-free travel for UK nationals coming to the EU for a short stay provided the UK offers the same.


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Norton’s New Feature Brings Ether Mining to Customers
Norton, one of the industry-leading antivirus and security software solutions, will be the first such company to offer cryptocurrency mining via its antivirus software, keeping up with the ever-expanding cryptocurrency craze.
Norton announced the launching of the new feature, Norton Crypto, on June 3. The users of Norton 360 security software will be able to add the feature to their LifeLock security software in the following weeks via LiveUpdate. They will need to meet certain criteria to install Norton Crypto, such as having updated display drivers on their computers.
With the new patch, Norton 360 subscribers can safely mine Ether. Once they earn cryptocurrency, they can track and transfer it to their Norton Crypto Wallet, where it will be protected from data loss or cyber threats. That way, crypto miners won’t have to store their earnings on hard drives, which could get damaged or become a target of a cyberattack.
“We are proud to be the first consumer cyber-safety company to offer coin miners the ability to safely and easily turn the idle time on their PCs into an opportunity to earn digital currency,” said chief product officer at Norton, Gagan Singh, in a press release. “With Norton Crypto, our customers can mine for cryptocurrency with just a few clicks, avoiding many barriers to entry in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.”
The surprise move was followed by voices of concern and suspicion in the tech community. Namely, mining crypto requires powerful computing hardware and large energy consumption. With the money that will be spent on electricity bills, generating profit could be next to impossible, or at least difficult. This is something casual miners might be unaware of.
Mining from public places such as student accommodations or offices would be profitable but illegal. On top of that, earned cryptocurrency is taxable in many countries, meaning the potential profit can be diminished even further. What model Norton will pursue to avoid being a financial burden to its already burdened customers is yet to be seen.
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Papa John’s is no longer the official pizza of the NFL. In a joint statement Tuesday, the pizza company and the league said they have made a mutual decision to end their official league sponsorship, a little less than four months after former CEO John Schnatter blamed national-anthem protests for declining sales.
Is Papa John’s still an NFL sponsor?
Papa John’s is no longer the official pizza of the NFL. CEO Steve Ritchie said on the company’s earnings conference call that the league and the company mutually decided it was in their best interests for Papa John’s, which became the official pizza of the league in 2010, to give up the designation.
Why did Papa John’s lose NFL sponsorship?
Per Rovell, Papa John’s sales dropped 3.9 percent from October through December compared to 2016. Founder John Schnatter ripped the league in November for its lack of response to players kneeling during the national anthem. “The NFL has been a long and valued partner over the years.
Who is the Official Pizza Sponsor of the NFL?
Pizza Hut’s deal with the NFL took effect after the NFL and Papa John’s (PZZA) ended their relationship last year in the wake of former Papa John’s (PZZA) CEO John Schnatter’s criticism of players who protested the national anthem. That has helped boost Pizza Hut’s sales.
Who are the official sponsors of the NFL?
Who are some of the biggest NFL corporate sponsors?
- Procter & Gamble: $15 million.
- Caesar’s Entertainment: $30 million.
- Fanatics Inc: $50 million.
- Amazon: $75 million.
- Oakley: $75 million.
- Pepsi: $100 million.
- Nike: $120 million.
- Anheuser-Busch: $230 million.
26 окт. 2020 г.
What football player owns Papa John’s?
Peyton Manning is a football legend. The quarterback led two separate NFL franchises, the Broncos and Colts, to Super Bowl wins — the only NFL player to do so. Aside from football, Manning is a spokesperson for many brands. He even owned 31 Papa John’s Pizza locations from 2012 to 2018.
Does Shaq Own Papa Johns?
According to a form he filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, O’Neal owns the equivalent of 89,723 Papa John’s shares, including 87,136 unvested restricted stock units, or RSUs, received through his endorsement agreement.
What happen to Papa Johns?
Papa John’s reached a settlement agreement with its founder John Schnatter, signaling an end to the acrimonious public battle between the pizza chain and its former chairman. … He resigned as chairman in July after reports he had used a racial slur on a media training conference call.
Does Pizza Hut sponsor NFL?
Pizza Hut is ready to kickoff the NFL season—its second as the official pizza sponsor of the league after taking over in 2018 following Papa John’s eight-year reign.
What did Papa John say about NFL?
In October 2017, in a conference call with investors, Schnatter blamed the National Football League for poor financial performance, stating “The NFL has hurt us … We are disappointed the NFL and its leadership did not resolve this”, referring to the U.S. national anthem protests by football players.
What is the official soda of the NFL?
Pepsi has been the official soft drink of the NFL for more than 17 seasons.
Does Coke sponsor the NFL?
Coca-Cola was the NFL’s official soft drink sponsor from 1983 until 2002. … While Pepsi is the league’s official soft drink sponsor, Coca-Cola serves as a partner with 14 NFL teams, including the Atlanta Falcons.
Who is the biggest sponsor of the NFL?
PepsiCo had the largest volume of partnerships, activating with the Frito-Lay, Gatorade, Pepsi, Quaker Oats and Tostitos brands. As the NFL relaxed its alcohol sponsorship policy in 2019, the wine and spirits category was the biggest mover, tripling its size and adding 18 new wine brand deals.
Is Nike a sponsor of the NFL?
As part of the arrangement, Nike will continue to supply all 32 NFL teams with uniform and sideline apparel until 2028. … “Nike has been a long-time and trusted partner of NFL and we’re thrilled to extend our relationship with them,” said Brian Rolapp, the NFL’s chief media and business officer.


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Meet & Eat Lunch Group
The Chamber is thrilled to announce the launch of our newest member benefit:
The Meet & Eat Lunch Group
This group will be a periodic and informal lunchtime gathering at various Wellesley restaurants where members can meet one another in a new setting.
Host restaurants will set a prix fixe menu for the gathering and attendees will be asked to RSVP to the Chamber, but pay the restaurant directly. The Chamber will not be adding any surcharge for the event. The meal price will be in the $12 - $15 range, not including tax and gratuity.
The first of these lunches will be:
Wednesday, September 16
12:00 - 1:00pm
Bocado Tapas & Wine Bar
45 Church Street, Wellesley
RSVP BY 11am MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14


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This year has brought no end of surprising, weird and wonderful new electric vehicles. It’s not even over yet, but 2022 is looking like a tipping point for EVs, with a huge surge in consumer interest coinciding with a bumper crop of exciting new models, as well as renewed government rebates here in Canada.
Nearly half of Canadians who are planning to buy a car said they’re looking for an EV, according to an Ernst & Young poll conducted this year. Other recent surveys put the number of Canadians who are willing to consider an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle as high as 70 or even 80 per cent now. The percentages vary depending on the question asked and study methodology, but no matter how you slice it, interest in EVs is surging.
Looking at all the new electric cars, SUVs, bikes, dune buggies and wild concepts announced this year alone, it’s easy to see why. As far as new products are concerned, here are our favourite EV surprises of 2022 so far:
The Dune Buggy Returns
Throughout the 1960s and ‘70s, cars didn’t get much cooler than the Meyers Manx dune buggy. It was designed by California-based artist/surfer/engineer Bruce Meyers and sold as a kit, so anyone with a bit of time and a garage could hack together a dune buggy out of an old VW Beetle. The Manx was driven by everyone from Elvis to Steve McQueen, and even raced to victory in the inaugural Mexican 1000 rally. The brand got a surprise revival this year, when the Manx 2.0 EV was unveiled during Monterey Car Week. Amidst all the high-dollar hoopla, this back-to-basics EV stole the show. The company claims up to 300 km of range, and is currently looking for 50 customers to beta-test early prototypes.
BMW M Goes Wild
The good people at BMW’s M division – formerly BMW Motorsport – have been building the sort of cars we love since the 1970s. Their cars are usually overpowered but understated, entertaining but practical, and all designed to please even the most discerning drivers. All of which is to explain why we got so hyped when we saw M is working on its first proper EV. This summer, the team unveiled a widebody prototype they’ve been playing with, testing a quad-motor electric drivetrain and advanced torque vectoring. The engineers say, “Within milliseconds, the power and torque of the spontaneously reacting electric motors can be dosed so precisely that the load demand signaled via the accelerator pedal can be realized at a level of dynamics that is unattainable using conventional drive systems.” In plain English that means we can’t wait to see what this thing can do on a racetrack.
Polestar’s Convertible is a Go
Electric convertibles are sadly in short supply, as we’ve covered previously. Frankly, we had written-off the audacious Polestar O2 concept as merely a flight of fancy, some designers daydream; happily, we were wrong. The upstart Swedish brand announced it will put the all-electric drop-top into production as the Polestar 6. It’ll be underpinned by the same next-gen electric powertrain as the Polestar 5, which means a targeted EPA-range of 600 km, as well as more than 800 horsepower and dual-motor all-wheel drive. It’s expected to launch in 2026.
An All-Electric RV
Historic American brand Bowlus, which began making these lovely, streamlined travel-trailers back in the 1930s, unveiled what it claims is the world’s first all-electric RV. It’s called the Volterra, and it could be yours for US$310,000. Sure, other travel-trailers could be considered all-electric too, but what makes this one different are its solar panels on the roof, a big 17 kWh battery, Starlink satellite internet and giant water storage tank, all of which allows this RV to “live off-grid indefinitely,” according to the company. In a pinch, it could even give your Tesla a little extra juice. Airstream unveiled a similar concept, but it’s just a concept, while the Bowlus Volterra is on sale now.
Mercedes’ 1,000 km EV
The EQXX concept from Mercedes-Benz was designed to drive 1,000 kilometres on a single charge, giving it the ability to go from Toronto to New York, or from Paris to Berlin, without range-anxiety. The concept was unveiled early in 2022, and then Mercedes proved the EQXX could cover the distance with a record-breaking road trip from Stuttgart to Cassis. But, the engineers figured their car could go even farther, and it did. In June, the EQXX covered an incredible 1,202- kilometres (747 miles) without recharging, going from Stuttgart to Silverstone. While the EQXX remains a concept, Markus Schäfer, Mercedes’ chief technology officer for development, told us that — beginning in 2024 — drivers can expect cars with “much more” driving range. Watch this space.
If you grew up around the booming dirt-bike scene in the 1970s, you know Can-Am. The name used to ring out, especially after a Can-Am rider won the U.S. motocross championship in 1974. The brand abandoned the moto market in the late ‘80s, but now, more than 40 years later, Can-Am is coming back electric. Quebec-based Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) announced the news with two battery-powered concept bikes, the street-oriented Pulse and the on/off-road Origin adventure bike. Details are scarce, but we know the bikes won’t have a clutch or manual transmission. The company is investing $300 million in electrification, but would-be owners will have to wait until 2024 to get their bikes.
Lucid’s Ludicrous Mode
Okay, that’s not quite fair. The new Sapphire sub-brand from Lucid aspires to be even more than the old Ludicrous mode was for Tesla. Lucid Motors is hoping Sapphire will be what M is to BMW, or AMG is to Mercedes. The Sapphire takes the already-brilliant Lucid Air up a notch, adding a tri-motor powertrain, producing over 1,200 hp and – more importantly – a track-capable chassis that can handle all that power. It’ll cost $325,000 and the first deliveries are expected next year.
An Electric Muscle Car
This wasn’t so much a surprise as it was an, “it’s about time!” moment. Dodge’s Charger Daytona SRT Concept aims to show the diehard muscle-car community that electric power can be good too, which, admittedly, may not be an easy task. To that end, however, the Charger EV has – no joke – an exhaust pipe which acts as a noise-maker. The concept also has some kind of transmission, called eRupt, and power-boost function, called PowerShot. The phallic energy here is palpable.
The Return of the ZDX
At Monterey Car Week this summer, Acura surprised everyone by announcing it would bring back the ZDX name for its first EV. The original ZDX was a somewhat controversial crossover, fondly remembered mainly by us and a handful of car-design aficionados who appreciated its avant-garde shape. (It was way ahead of the curve on fastback SUVs, which are now everywhere.) The brand’s first EV is due out in 2024, and you can read the full story on it, and the OG ZDX, right here.
Porsche Claps Back at Tesla
Last year, a Tesla Model S Plaid beat a Porsche Taycan Turbo to set the fastest lap for production EV around Germany’s famous Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit. Porsche wasn’t about to let that go. So, this year, a Taycan Turbo S fitted with an optional new Performance package beat the Tesla, setting a production EV lap record of 7 minutes and 33 seconds. The package includes lighter wheels, Pirelli P Zero Corsa rubber, and software tweaks to the chassis-control systems. (Otherwise, the car’s only modifications were a roll-cage and racing seats, which are required for ‘Ring records.) The record-breaking lap was done by steely-eyed Porsche development driver Lars Kern, and we tip our hats to him.
A Manual Gearbox for Lexus’ Super-EV
Don’t hold your breath for this one, but that the brand’s upcoming electric supercar – a successor to the LFA – might get some sort of manual transmission. Most EVs only have one gear, so a multi-speed gearbox, let alone a manual one, is unnecessary. But, Lexus’ boss said he’s looking for news ways to engage EV drivers. “I love cars and want something different,” he told the magazine. As far as we’re concerned, that’s justification enough. The LFA successor, dubbed Electrified Sport Concept, debuted earlier this summer. (And yes, Lexus really needs to come up with a more evocative name for its electric supercar.)


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Starting next week, Beach Haus beer will be available for purchase across the state of Delaware. East Coast Beer Co. is partnering with World Class Wholesale, a New Castle, Dela.-based distributor, to ship the beer company’s diverse lineup of bottles and kegs to retailers throughout the state. Beach Haus’ Classic American Pilsner, Winter Rental Black Lager and Cruiser IPA will be the first products available for purchase.
The partnership began last month when Merklin reached out to Chris Tigani, president of World Class Wholesale.
"I met with Chris at World Class Wholesale and came away immediately impressed with their organization,” says John Merklin, co-founder of East Coast Beer Co. “Chris was able to 'connect the dots' quickly with a brand like ours. World Class also offers a great combination of past industry experience with very forward-thinking ideas. Their use of technology to help grow brands and to service their accounts is especially impressive.".
Says Tigani, “We go for brands that have a story to tell. The team at East Coast has a great story starting from day one. The fact that they’re local, they’re hands-on, and they work hard makes them the type of suppliers we want.”
The brand’s beach-theme was also a selling point according to Tigani. “The connection to beach and summer was immediate," he says We have some great resorts in Rehoboth, Dewey Beach, and more that are already excited about it.”
East Coast Beer Co. is currently in the process of opening a new brewery in the former Freedman’s Bakery building in Belmar. The Main St. location will serve as a craft beer hub for the area, according to Merklin. The company will expand its beer line in the new brewery, and offer tours, a tasting room, and merchandise shop to the public. Renovations are currently underway and the brewery is expected to open July 2014.


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Photo by John Fannin
Bon Vino’s Chef Kenny Harding whips up a cream sauce in the Sunnyside restaurant’s kitchen.
As of Friday, February 21, 2014
Taking a cue from his mother, Kenny Harding has turned cooking into a career.
Chef at Bon Vino’s in Sunnyside for the past 16 months, Harding says he’s been cooking for about 25 years. He said it all started when he was 11 or 12 years old.
“My mother taught me because she wanted to make sure her kids knew how to cook,” Harding says.
He’s taken that learning experience and put it to work at Snipes here in Sunnyside and now at Bon Vino’s.
For Harding, taking enjoyment in his career is more than dishing up meals that taste good. He also relishes being creative and making sure items from the kitchen have a flair in their appearance.
“I like the culinary aspect of it,” he said.
That’s one reason Harding says his favorite dish to prepare at Bon Vino’s is the oriental chicken salad. “I like the colors and the different ingredients.”
As for the menu items most requested by customers at Bon Vino’s, Harding says the Roger Panini sandwich and Turkey Griller are among the most popular.
He praises Bon Vino’s owners Roger Hazzard and Joreen Mensonides for giving him the freedom to whip up creations such as the Seahawk Sandwich with flat bread, grilled turkey, bacon, swiss cheese, tomato, lettuce, avocado and cilantro dressing.
“I have two great bosses!” Harding says.
Harding says an important trait for chefs to have is the ability to be open to suggestions and critiques.
His philosophy in pleasing Bon Vino’s patrons is to “always try do better than your best.”


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Showing posts from the Uncategorized category.
Mar 15 2018
We are excited to announce a new neighborhood at Grand View Lodge, the Fairway Pines Cottages. The Fairway Pines Cottages can be purchased as a vacation rental ownership.View Post
Dec 10 2015
Mark your calendars for the 26th annual Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza, also known as the world’s largest charitable ice fishing event. The Extravaganza began in the early 1990’s with the goal of creating a signature event in the Brainerd lakes Area that would supply a fun winter event and money to non-profit charities in the area.View Post