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The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) continues to gain attention in 2019. As more companies globally begin to fully understand the constraints and potential repercussions of GDPR, the need to gain information on how to comply with the regulation grows.
Recent high-level cases are bringing even more attention to GDPR, as companies are being fined up to 4% of their annual business income for failing to comply. Google is one of the companies to be issued a fine for $56 million US for lack of consent on Ads.
But advertisements are not the only source of complaints to the Data Protection Authorities (DPA) under GDPR. So far, the activities from companies that are receiving the most complaints are telemarketing, promotional emails, and video surveillance/CCTV. January 2019 alone saw almost 100,000 official complaints to the DPA for violation of GDPR.
As EU citizens begin to fully understand their rights under GDPR the complaint number will continue to grow. It is imperative companies act immediately to comply with GDPR and understand all the duties owed to EU citizens.
We have provided a free checklist below to help you stay compliant with GDPR rules and regulations. For full details on GDPR visit the European Union’s page on 2018 reform of EU data protection rules.
FREE GDPR Checlist:
Fill out the form below and click “Download Now” after you submit.


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Despite all the political rancor going on in the U.S., consumer sentiment among consumers increased in May based on preliminary data from the University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment index.
According to a report in The Financial Times Friday (May 12), the index came in at 97.7 in May, higher than the 97 economists surveyed by Bloomberg were looking for. It’s also higher than the 97 reached in April, marking a 0.7 percent month over month increased and a 3.2 percent rise from May of last year.
Richard Curtin, Survey of Consumers chief economist, told the FT that there is still a big difference between Republicans and Democrats when it comes to consumer sentiment but that it narrowed a little bit to 55 from the 65 recorded three months ago. Curtin said that this was largely due to “Democrats expressing diminished fears of an immediate recession and lessened concerns about personal financial setbacks.”
In the latest survey, Curtin said the reason the sentiment picked up is because consumers have high real-time income expectations, reaching levels not seen in more than a decade with incomes increasing and inflation still low. That doesn’t mean consumers are spending as a result. Vehicle buying conditions hit a three-year low, while home buying conditions were also lower. Home-selling sentiment reached its most favorable point in more than 10 years, noted the report.
Ever since the U.S. election, Republicans and Democrats have been divided over the impact President Trump will have on the economy. Heading into Trump’s presidency, there were concerns of a recession in the U.S. and a crash of the stock market, but that hasn’t happened. Unemployment is hitting record lows, the stock market has been rallying and Trump has been taking credit for job creation, all of which helps consumer sentiment.

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Lamborghini's new £2million 760bhp Centenario Roadster is about as extreme as four wheels can get
- Just 20 open-top supercars to be built - all of them have already been sold to loyal customers
- Centenario Roadster uses the same 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 from the Aventador
- Ford has bowed to customer demand and extended production of the GT supercar from two to four years
- Many buyers were previously told they weren't getting one of the 600bhp - now that could all change
Lamborghini has been subject to some criticism of late for producing cars that some believe lack the flair and bonkers excitement for which the brand is famed.
But few could argue that the Italian marque isn't pushing boundaries with its latest creation - a V12 hypercar that costs close to £2million.
Called the Centenario Roadster, it's got more power than some NASA projects and outrageous looks that could see the charging bull taking pride of place on teenagers' bedroom walls again.
Extreme machine: The Lamborghini Centenario Roadster will cost £2m, though just 20 of the commemorative cars will be built
Some will argue that Lamborghini has lost its way since the heyday of the Countach and Diablo in the '80s and '90s. But while the recently launched Huracan is Lamborghini's answer to the everyday supercar, this latest bullet from Bologna is far from the same.
Just 20 of these open-top missiles will be made, each costing 2 million euros plus tax.
But you might as well hang up on your account manager right now, because Lamborghini has already sold all £40million worth of the limited edition cars.
That takes Lamboghini's total for 'Centenario' special edition models - built to commemorate 100 years of its founder Ferruccio Lamborghini - to £80million after the brand confirmed it had sold all 20 coupes ahead of its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Not a bad turnaround on 40 vehicles.
Like the car revealed earlier in the year, this one - showcased for the first time at Pebble Beach during Monterey Car Week in California - also features the 6.5-litre 760bhp V12 naturally-aspirated engine - the same lump that powers the Aventador.
'Centenario' models have been created to celebrate 100 years of its founder Ferruccio Lamborghini
The £2m car will use the same 6.5-litre V12 naturally aspirated engine that's featured in the Aventador
However, Lamborghini has taken the tin opener to this one, allowing 20 affluent buyers to fully appreciate the mechanical chorus bellowing from the rear-mounted motor.
As well as being frighteningly powerful, it's aerodynamically advanced too, according to the Italian firm's official statement about the car.
We believe what Lamborghini says - it looks like it's been designed on a Spirograph and has enough sharp edges to carve through a wall of diamond.
An enormous rear diffuser, retractable wing and arrow rear lamps dominate the back of the car. Even the skirts have wings
We're not sure if we'd feel all that comfortable taking our £2m supercar out into the desert - think of the sand in the cabin
What we are slightly more dubious about, though, is chief executive Stefano Domenicali's description of the car. He said: 'Lamborghini prides itself on the relentless pursuit of experimentation.
'We are proud to unleash Centenario’s further potential in the form of a classic roadster; the perfect harmony between innovation and timeless design.'
Classic? We'd have to beg to differ.
As you might expect, the interior is beautifully hand-crafted. The driver will have 760bhp available at the dab of a right foot
Lamborghini chief executive Stefano Domenicali (pictured) said the car was built in 'the form of a classic roadster'. We're not too sure if this is the classic look, Stefano
'This unique engineering achievement is a befitting tribute to Lamborghini’s extraordinary past and a preview of its brilliant future,' he continued.
'Centenario Roadster embraces the cutting edge characteristics of its coupé sibling and embraces the freedom of a true open-top super sports car for a pure drive experience.'
Been told you're not getting a Ford GT? You might still be in luck because production has been extended by two years
Ford bows to customer demand to double GT production
The application process to secure one of Ford's limited GT supercars has been extended, the carmaker has announced, on the back of enormous demand for the second-generation reborn racer.
Ford had previously committed to building the 600bhp GT for just two years, producing around 250 models annually.
But interest has been overwhelming, to the point where Ford has had to create a tactical vetting process to determine allocations for the £300,000-plus motors.
Only the highest regarded brand ambassadors and 'social influencers' have been assured they'll receive one of the first batch of cars - something that has resulted in enormous disappointment for Ford loyalists who received a letter beginning with the sentence: 'Unfortunately, your application has not been successful'.
Ford has committed to extend the GT production line from two years to appease disgruntled fans who were told they hadn't been allocated one of the limited edition sports cars
Many buyers who have had their orders confirmed could see the future value of their car shrink marginally due to the increased output
But don't despair if you did receive a rejection notice, as Ford has confirmed it will keep the production line open for a further two years to appease devoted customers.
Ford Performance global director Dave Pericak said: 'While we can’t build enough Ford GTs for everyone who has applied, we are going to produce additional vehicles in an effort to satisfy more of our most loyal Ford ambassadors.
'We want to keep Ford GT exclusive, but at the same time we know how vital this customer is to our brand.'
Exclusivity could be an issue, though, especially for anyone who was successful in the initial application process, with the increased output of vehicles potentially having a dramatic impact on future values of the now not-so-limited 3.5-litre V6 sports car.
Ford has said all cars built in the third year will go to those who have already been placed on the GT waiting list, while year four will be for some of those who were initially turned down.
The application process will now remain open for two years, which gives buyers plenty of time to order a Mustang or Focus RS to prove their allegiance to the brand.
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People like to complain about the new fluorescent light bulbs. The light isn't warm and friendly, the spiral bulbs don't fit their fixtures, and they don't last as long as claimed. But the biggest gripe I've heard is how hard it is to unload these bulbs, and that you have to pay for the privilege.
Incandescent light bulbs are easy: buy, burn and toss. But not so with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs).
The bulbs contain toxic mercury, which requires special handling. The poison poses no threat when bulbs stay intact, but lamps break when trashed and mercury escapes. Once released, it can never be fully recovered, scientists say.
So why are environmentalists, federal and state governments and other authorities pushing fluorescent light bulbs? Because they are real energy savers.
"CFLs use about 75 percent less energy than standard lighting, produce 75 percent less heat, and last up to 10 times longer," according to the Web site of Energy Star, a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.
But how can they be good for the environment if they contain mercury? Because so much energy is conserved, there's a net decrease in the amount of mercury released compared with what's released by the coal-burning power plants that produce electricity for conventional lighting, according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). Officials from some states and even other EPA departments advised Energy Star to put out an advisory on mercury information and proper disposal, said John Gilkeson of the pollution control agency. Legislation signed into law by President Bush in December phases out traditional incandescent lamps, but there's no provision for disposal.
Some hardware stores have collection programs, with utilities offering coupons to offset disposal costs. Retailers such as Ikea collect them for free. For $15, Sylvania will send you a 15-bulb recycling kit. Once the 15 slots are filled, close up the box and mail it for recycling, postage paid.
However, you won't be doing it this way for long. Even better lighting technology is right around the corner, according to Stephanie Anderson of Osram Sylvania. LED (light emitting diodes) are only 5 to 10 years out, she said. They're more efficient, last even longer than fluorescent and there's no mercury to worry about.
Meanwhile, it makes sense to go fluorescent. Here are some solutions to common problems:
CFLs burn out early. Take them back to the store for refund or exchange. The life of a CFL is 8,000 to 10,000 hours; some are 4,500 to 6,000. Always buy the longest-life bulb, typically Energy Star-rated bulbs, Gilkeson said.
They come on dim and take awhile to warm up. CFLs can take 30 seconds to a minute to come to full light. They do, however, go off instantly.
They don't fit my lamp. Try a smaller bulb such as the Sylvania micro-mini Twist. The 15-watt CFL, equivalent to the 60-watt incandescent, fits where many standard CFLs don't. A harp extender might work. (The harp is the wire device on a lamp that holds the shade). They sell for about $2 at hardware and home stores.
I hate the harsh, white light of fluorescent. Read the label. Buy lamps with color temperatures listed at 2700K or 3000K to get the warm light that looks like incandescent light, Gilkeson said. Be aware that color quality can change in three-way bulbs, he said.
I want a bulb for a flood light, dimmer switch, electric eye fixture or entry door. Specialty fluorescent lights are available. Because your local home or hardware store might not have the right bulb or information on which bulb works with your fixture, you'll have to do some work. Gilkeson recommends www.doe.gov (search CFL), www.environmentallights.com, www.1000bulbs.com and www.bulbamerica.com for information. CFLs might not work with some older dimmers; you might have to update the control.
There aren't fluorescent lights available for every fixture, such as chandeliers, outdoor fixtures and appliances. The legislation signed into law last year does not apply to color and shaped bulbs, or for appliances, Anderson said. It is the common clear and frosted incandescent bulbs that will be phased out over the next six years.
They don't work in enclosed fixtures or recessed cans. Use the right bulb and pick the 13-, 20- or 23-watt CFL, Gilkeson said. (That translates to incandescent 60- to 100-watt range.) The best screw-in bulbs for cans, according to the US. Department of Energy, are made by GE, Osram Sylvania, Philips and Feit and are listed at www.pnl.gov/rlamps.
If a fluorescent bulb breaks, open windows and outside doors, vacate the room, then start cleanup. After 15 minutes of ventilation, the Minnesota Department of Health recommends that you:
- Carefully sweep up the fragments, using something disposable. Do not use your hands.
- Wipe the area with a paper towel to remove all glass fragments. Do not use a vacuum cleaner.
- Use duct tape or something similar to clean up the remaining powder and residue (or for carpet cleanup).
- Place all fragments and cleanup utensils in a sealed plastic bag inside another bag and dispose of them at a hazardous-waste site.


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A recent report by YouGov looks at how KSA residents outlook towards their finances and where they are spending.
It also looks into their attitudes and preferences across finance, retail, travel, advertising, tech and media sector.
The number one used financial app is STC pay. 45 per cent of Saudi Arabia’s population say that Stc Pay is the mobile payment platform they typically use. The second app that is not far behind in numbers is Mada Pay.
Surprisingly, global payment platforms such as Apple Pay and Samsung Pay lie on the lower end of the scale.
Apple Pay is used more often compared to Samsung Pay, when comparing 32 per cent of people who said they used Apple Pay to Samsung Pay’s 11 per cent.
When it comes to financial services, most of the respondents opted for Mada as their choice. After Mada, the next most popular ones are Visa and Stc Pay.
When it comes to retail banks on the other hand, almost half of the respondents chose Alrajahi Bank. The remaining were split almost equally between Riyad Bank and Alinma Bank.
The report also highlighted which retail outlets the KSA residents purchase from.
Saudi retailers Jarir and Panda were found to be highly preferred among the respondents.
Among the KSA residents, 35 per cent used bookstore retailer Jarir and 33 per cent used the grocery retailer Panda. The outlets they usually consider next are Noon and Extra.
KSA residents seem to opt for local brands over global brands. Though that doesn’t seem to be the case when it comes to hotels.
Most of these respondents gave preference to hotel brands such as Hilton, Sheraton and Intercontinental (IHG).
Most respondents (32%) picked Hilton as their preferred brand. These were followed by Sheraton and Intercontinental (IHG) at 21 and 20 per cent each.
When it comes to electronic goods, Samsung and Apple take big chunks of the pie. At 44 per cent, Samsung sits slightly higher than Apple’s 43 per cent among the most considered brands.
LG, Huawei and Sony take up a much smaller share between 27-24 per cent.
The advertising effect
A little more than half of the respondents (52%) agreed that advertising helps them choose what to buy.
When it came towards their outlook towards events and advertising, the report found that a large percentage (55%) of these people often searched for products and services on their phones as a result of seeing posters and billboards.
The report also found that the people liked it when the companies had a moral message to their advertising.


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The newest addition to its enthusiast compact line seems targeted at drawing buyers away from Sony's RX100 II.
The update to Canon's aged midrange dSLR has some really nice enhancements, as well as some disappointing omissions.
Run-of-the-mill specs paired with sleek, minimalist designs make the LG G Pads attractive budget buys, but there's little to distinguish them from similarly performing slates in the same price range.
This USB tuner means Xbox One owners can watch TV via their console without switching TV input, and use voice controls too.
Pricing not available
The Xbox One Media Remote is a must-have accessory that makes it much easier to accept a gaming console as the hub of your living room.
With a lot of new technology but some interesting implementation choices, you should keep your eye on the Samsung NX1.
Overall, NHL 15 is a bittersweet event. It regularly exudes shades of brilliance and heightened moments of action that truly captures the best parts of hockey. But alas, it's soiled by a harsh truth: NHL 15 is missing an awful lot of features.
Courtesy of Chinese hackers, the untethered jailbreak tool now supports the Mac and even displays its screens in English.
Chinese developers release an untethered jailbreak for the latest version of Apple's iOS, says Redmond Pie. But is it safe?
Sony's flagship Xperia Z1 packs a Full HD display, a quad-core processor, and a whopping 20.7-megapixel camera into a waterproof body and wraps it in an aluminium frame.


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It seems like everyone is working on a virtual assistant these days. They’re all the rage and if you think Ubisoft coming out with one is just overkill, think again. Ubisoft has introduced Sam today, it’s a virtual assistant that’s meant for gamers. This makes perfect sense. Ubisoft is a gaming company, it doesn’t make smartphones or tablets, so its virtual assistant will obviously be related to gaming only.
Ubisoft has integrated a beta version of its Sam virtual assistant in its Ubisoft Club app. Sam will provide users with personalized tips based on their profiles. It can bring their attention to things that they’ve not tried yet in a game they’ve been playing. Sam also exists as a chatbot within the app.
It can help with queries about when a certain game is going to be released or how many hours you’ve spent playing Call of Duty. Users can just type or simply speak a question for Sam and it will provide the relevant details. Sam can also push videos, stories, and sites almost immediately.
Sam is available in beta on Android and iOS in the Ubisoft Club app in Canada only right now. It supports the English language currently. This is the first public test of the system’s accuracy and responsiveness. The team is going to use this opportunity to further improve Sam’s functionality. The service will evolve over time and will eventually be rolled out in other markets as well.


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Bald Barbie Promises to Show Kids with Cancer it’s OK to Look Different
It appears that once again Facebook has helped mobilize a dignified cause. The social sharing platform served as a catalyst for a group founded by Jane Bingham and Beckie Sypin called “Beautiful and Bald Barbie! Let’s see if we can get it made,” which urged Mattel to create a bald Barbie doll to comfort children with cancer.
Bingham, a survivor of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, joined her friend Beckie Sypin, whose 12-year-old daughter lost all of her hair after chemotherapy, in launching the campaign on Facebook, which quickly gained thousands of followers. Sypin approached Mattel with the idea of a bald Barbie and the toy company initially said no, but later agreed to distribute the doll “exclusively to children’s hospitals and other hospitals treating children with cancer throughout the U.S. and Canada, directly reaching girls who are most affected by hair loss.”
According to ABCNews.com “the bald doll would include “hats, scarves and other fashion accessories to provide girls with a traditional fashion play experience. For those girls who choose, the wigs and head coverings can be interchanged or completely removed.” Mattel told ABCNews that it made the “decision not to sell these dolls at retail stores and profit from them, but rather more directly and immediately get these into the hands of children who can most benefit from a play experience with these dolls.”
Sypin and Bingham would like the bald Barbie doll to eventually be sold at retail stores, so that anyone affected by cancer can purchase one. MGA Entertainment, makers of “Bratz” and “Moxie Girlz” dolls, announced in February that it would be releasing six “True Hope” hairless dolls (available at Toys ‘R’ Us in June) and donating one dollar from every sale to City of Hope for cancer research (Zap2it.com).
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Traders in part of Gateshead say work to build a new supermarket close to a busy shopping centre is driving business away.
Work is now underway to build a Morrison's supermarket close to a Blaydon's main shopping centre.
But the work has drastically reduced the available car parking space.
Traders say the disruption is putting people off shopping there and fear many will go out of business before the new supermarket is even finished.
More top news
After Wednesday's downpours things are looking more settled.
Durham PCC, Ron Hogg is urging members of the public to "stay strong and stay together" by sharing intelligence to defeat terrorism.
Cleveland Police is increasing the number of visibility patrols to reassure people following the Westminster terror attack.


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Annual fall bake sale set for Saturday
By KANE COUNTY CHRONICLE - firstname.lastname@example.org
BATAVIA – The annual Riverain Point Apartments fall bake sale is set from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 19, at 200 N. Island Ave., Batavia.
There will be coffee and doughnuts on sale in the deck of the lobby.
There also will be a raffle for a basket. The cost for the raffle is $2 a ticket.
Short-term parking is available in front of the main entrance for the bake sale. Others can park in the nearby city lot.
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- O’ Sole Mio opens doors to newest location in St. Charles
- Mystery Diner: Liu Brothers brings B.Y.O.B. Chinese bistro to St. Charles
- Where the chefs roam: Local restaurant industry leaders share favorite dining spots


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Big Data Suggests Running is Socially Contagious
Running may be contagious, according to a study published in Nature Communications, The New York Times reports. The study is one of the first of its kind to use big data from a global social network. Researchers gathered five years worth of data from about 1.1 million runners worldwide, as well as five years’ worth of data from global weather station, which they cross-correlated with information about runners’ daily workouts. Ultimately, they found that runners do influence one another. “Over all, if one person ran for about 10 minutes more than usual on any given day, that runner’s friends would lengthen their workout by approximately three minutes, even if the weather was discouraging,” The Times states. “Similarly, if a friend ran faster than usual, his or her friends would tend to pick up their pace in their runs that same day.”
Entries in Blink Fitness (13)
Big Data Suggests Running is Socially Contagious
Blink Fitness Temporarily Turns Off TV News to Reduce Stress
Blink Fitness has launched a new initiative to encourage members to minimize stress and focus on their well being throughout April, which is National Stress Awareness Month. For the "Tune Out While You Work Out" initiative, Blink will be switching its TV programming from stress-inducing news channels to mood-lifting content, such as comedy, entertainment, music, and educational programming. Every Blink facility will also encourage members to take a step back from social media and all of their daily stressors through exercise. "We always want Blink to be a place our members turn to when they need a mood boost," Ellen Roggemann, vice president of marketing for Blink Fitness, said in a release. "After seeing the results of [the American Psychological Association survey on stress], we wanted to do something that would serve as a reminder that exercise is just as important for our members' mental well-being as it is for their physical health. We are removing stressors from our gyms like news content from our TV screens and are encouraging members to go social media-free during their workouts so they can tune out while they work out."
IHRSA Members, Lobbyist Discuss PHIT on Capitol Hill
IHRSA members Linda Mitchell and Kelly Beauparlant from the Newtown Athletic Club (NAC) Have a Heart Foundation spent Tuesday, February 6 on Capitol Hill with Jay Sweeney, IHRSA's Federal Lobbyist. As the IHRSA team preps for the introduction of the PHIT Act, legislation that would make gym memberships and physical activity more affordable, Sweeney and the NAC team met with members of Congress and their staff to discuss the PHIT Act's benefits to their constituents. After a full day of meetings Linda Mitchell, NAC's director of public and government relations, said, “I learned so much more about the process of getting this bill passed. The responses from our meetings were very positive, but there's still more work to do.”
Mitchell then implored other IHRSA members to get involved in the very important grassroots efforts to pass PHIT, "This bill could change the "life" of your business once and for all, by reducing the cost of membership and other services for your members. Please reach out to IHRSA government relations to learn if your Congressman is supporting PHIT. If he or she is, thank them! If not, you need to reach out to them personally and immediately. Your voice will matter. The IHRSA team will walk you through the process."
The Latest Fitness Fad: Stretching Studios
Move over barre, indoor cycling, and bootcamp—stretching studios are the newest fitness fad, according to The New York Times. However, rather than competing with other types of studios, stretching boutiques may be positioned to create more of a symbiotic relationship. “There are all these peak fitness places that have popped up,” Power Stretch Studios Owner Hakika V. DuBose told The Times, referring to SoulCycle, Barry’s Bootcamp, and CrossFit. “People go five times a week and their muscles are very overworked and contracted.” Power Stretch Studios isn’t the only boutique of its kind—there’s StretchOut Studios in Boston, Stretchlab in Los Angeles, and Stretch Zone, which appears to be the largest national chain with 31 locations in California, Florida, North Carolina, as well as other states.
Panelists Announced for the 21st Annual IHRSA Financial Panel
The annual IHRSA Financial Panel, taking place on Friday, March 10 during IHRSA 2017, will highlight the expertise of four highly-regarded financial experts and apply their knowledge to the issues impacting the health club market. "The intent of the panel is to ensure industry operators have the knowledge they need to make sound financial decisions,” says Rick Caro, president of Management Vision and Financial Panel moderator. “This year’s four panelists have researched the market matter extensively.”
This year’s panelists include:
- Marc Magliacano, partner, L Catterton
- Andrew B. Hirsekorn, principal, Eagle Merchant Partners
- Will Cowan, senior VP, Jefferies LLC
- Steve Tricarico, managing director, Jefferies LLC
Panelists will offer information on major club transactions across a variety of club segments and answer any additional questions during a separate Q&A session. Learn more about the annual IHRSA Financial Panel.
Blink Fitness Announces Los Angeles Expansion
Blink Fitness announced the company’s expansion to Los Angeles metro area in 2017. According to a press release, Blink says that their first location in Los Angeles is a step in their mission to alter the rhetoric of unrealistic goals of ideal body image among the fitness industry. Their goal conceptualizes this positivity over physical results in their latest ad campaign, “Every Body Happy.” “The availability of prime real estate in dense neighborhoods with comparable demographics to much of Blink's home turf in the New York area made the Los Angeles marketplace an appealing next step for expansion,” said Todd Magazine, president of Blink Fitness. Blink's first LA lease is for a former 1930s movie theater in Huntington Park, set to open by the end of 2017. Read the full press release about the expansion of Blink Fitness.
6 Ways to Be a Leader in the Health Club Industry
Studies Find Cellphone Use and Exercise Don’t Mix
Members shouldn’t be using their cellphones while working out—and not just because it annoys everyone around them. Talking or texting while exercising lowers the intensity of the session and negatively affects balance, which can increase risk of injury, according to two new studies. "If you're talking or texting on your cellphone while you're putting in your daily steps, your attention is divided by the two tasks and that can disrupt your postural stability, and therefore, possibly predispose individuals to other greater inherent risks such as falls and musculoskeletal injuries," study author Michael Rebold, assistant professor of integrative exercise science at Hiram College in Ohio, said in a release. Researchers found that texting on a cellphone reduced postural stability by 45% and talking on a cellphone reduced postural stability by 19%.
Body Zone Sports and Wellness Complex Adds Physical Therapy Service
IHRSA member Body Zone Sports and Wellness Complex announced Monday that “Body Zone Physical Therapy” is its newest community health service. The Wyomissing, PA, club said the service signals its new mission to merge medical services with fitness and preventative care for its members and the community. "Opening Body Zone Physical Therapy is a natural progression for us as we continue to grow towards medical-based fitness. It provides our members, participants in our sports programs, and the general public with an unparalleled opportunity to be healthy all under one roof,” General Manager Ted Kolva said in a release. "We are very fortunate to have Dr. Randy Yocum as our Director of Physical Therapy. His expertise, compassion, and knowledge is evident with every patient he treats. Randy’s experience, coupled with our facility’s offerings will make our practice one of the premier physical therapy experiences in the region.”
Under President Trump, 3 Possible Scenarios to Pass PHIT
Now that the 115th Congress is sworn in and Donald J. Trump is President Trump, healthcare reform and tax reform are at the top of the nation’s agenda. As a result, we see a three-tier opportunity to pass PHIT. Read IHRSA Executive Vice President of Public Policy Helen Durkin’s post that lays out the “dream scenario,” “replace scenario,” and “tax reform scenario.”
The ‘Target of Gyms’ Will Expand to Philadelphia in 2017
Blink Fitness, which Yahoo!Finance recently dubbed “the Target of gyms,” announced Monday that it will enter the Philadelphia metro area this year. "With dense neighborhoods, varied transit options, and suburbs close by, Philadelphia shares many qualities with our home turf in New York," Todd Magazine, president of Blink Fitness, said in a release. "We look forward to providing both a luxury gym experience at an affordable price and a groundbreaking approach to fitness."
Merritt Athletic Clubs Unveils New Brand Identity
Merritt Clubs, formerly Merritt Athletic Clubs, marked its 40th anniversary by launching a new brand identity that better communicates the continual evolution of the company’s fitness facilities and programs. In addition to the new name, Merritt now has a new logo, messaging, website, and signage that is already installed in its nine locations. “Our mission is to change the way people think about fitness,” COO Mark Miller said in a release. “To us, fitness means strengthening your body and mind in the comfort of a place that feels like home, with a friendly staff that feels like family. Our new brand is helping to tell this story and it truly captures our purpose of being the best part of our member’s day and the spirit of our clubs.”
TRX Named IHRSA Associate Member of the Year
We’re excited to announce that TRX, a leading producer of functional training programs, education, and equipment, is our 2017 Associate Member of the Year! "We are delighted to honor our good friends at TRX for their ongoing support of IHRSA and for their work to grow the industry,” said Joe Moore, IHRSA's president and CEO. “When Randy Hetrick launched the first Travel X, the precursor to the TRX Suspension Trainer in 2004, he foresaw what the future of functional training would be for millions of fitness consumers. Since then, TRX has been a leader in delivering innovative products and programs designed to not only inspire people to be more active, but more importantly, help them achieve their fitness goals.” The Associate Member of the Year Award is presented annually to recognize an IHRSA Associate Member for their significant contributions to the advancement of the health club industry, as well as their support of IHRSA, its members, and its mission through program and event participation, advertising, and sponsorship. The award will be presented during IHRSA 2017 in Los Angeles, CA, March 8-11. Read the full “TRX Named 2017 Associate Member of the Year” press release.
Blink Fitness Offers Amazon Lockers in 7 Manhattan Clubs
Blink Fitness announced Wednesday that seven of its 11 Manhattan locations are now home to Amazon Lockers, which offer members and the community a self-service delivery location to pick up and return packages from Amazon.com. Amazon Lockers are cropping up nationwide and there are more than 100 in and around New York City and, according to Blink, this is the first time Amazon Locker has worked with a fitness club. "Blink's collaboration with Amazon is a natural fit to benefit both our members and the community at large," said Blink Fitness President Todd Magazine. "Our member experience comes first, so we're thrilled that members will no longer have to worry or go out of their way to receive a package. Secondly, the Amazon Lockers will help introduce our state-of-the-art facilities to a new audience and hopefully encourage them to make their fitness resolutions with Blink."
Equinox CEO Talks Trump, Company Growth
Last week, Equinox CEO Harvey Spevak spoke to CNBC about how President-elect Donald Trump may affect business, and shared his thoughts on company growth and the SoulCycle IPO.
33% of Canadians Resolved to Improve Physical Fitness in 2017
One in three Canadians said improving their physical fitness and eating habits was their top New Year’s resolution, according to a new Ipos survey that was conducted on behalf of GoodLife Fitness. The survey also found that 21% of Canadians said they would focus on financial goals; 13% wanted to dedicate more time to travel and leisure; 11% planned to put a stop to bad habits, like drinking and smoking; and 10% will try to spend more time with family and friends. “It’s great to see more Canadians choosing fitness and nutrition as their number one resolution for 2017 because it suggests people are making positive choices when it comes to eating well and being active, with the goal of feeling better overall,” said David ‘Patch’ Patchell-Evans, founder and CEO of GoodLife Fitness.
Blink Fitness’ 2017 Ad Campaign Features Real Members
Earlier this week Blink Fitness launched its 2017 marketing campaign, “Every Body Happy,” according to a release. This year’s effort features 16 Blink members who auditioned for the campaign on social media in the fall by flaunting their confidence. From more than 2,000 submissions, 50 semi-finalists were called back for an in-person casting call event where they shared their personal fitness stories in front of an influential panel of casting agents.
A survey commissioned by Blink Fitness and conducted online by Harris Poll last month showed the following sentiments, which Blink says illustrates that it is onto something greater:
- Roughly eight out of 10 Americans (82%) say their relationship with their body could be improved.
- Nearly two-thirds (64%) of respondents said they find it discouraging to work towards unrealistic body images they see in the media.
- Almost nine in 10 Americans (89%) who currently work out at a gym feel more confident about themselves when they leave the gym than when they first walk in.
Fitness Industry Poised to Benefit from 2017 Resolutioners
The fitness market is one of the top industries poised to benefit from New Year’s Resolutions, Media Center reports. The article cites a Facebook/Wall Street Journal survey that found the number of gym check-ins on the social media platform increases by 50.0% from December to January. However, the largest decline in check-ins each year occurs in February, when check-ins drop by an estimated 10.0%. Athletic events are also positioned to grow from the influx of resolutioners in 2017. “With the aid of social media, popular outdoor events including the Iron Man, marathons, bicycle competitions and obstacle courses have become a key growth opportunity,” the article states. “The Athletic Event Organizers industry is expected to increase an annualized 2.4% over the five years to 2016, followed by another increase at an annualized rate of 1.7% over the next five years, reaching a projected $2.0 billion in revenue in 2021.”
IHRSA Webinar Preview: Capturing the Resolutionist Year-Round
On Thursday, January 12, Amanda Konigsberg, general manager for Active Wellness, will present “Capturing the Resolutionist Year-Round,” a webinar focused on membership sales and marketing strategies. To avoid your club’s slow season, Konigsberg recommends that you study the cycles in the health club industry and your own demographic area, and use that knowledge to build alternative income streams to counteract the off-season. “Just do not let attention to the alternative stream overtake a focus on the primary business,” she says. Read the full “Capturing the Resolutionist Year-Round” webinar preview.
Genesis Health Clubs Grows as Largest Club Provider in Midwest
IHRSA member Genesis Health Clubs purchased an additional Omaha area club from Nebraska Elite Sports and Fitness Complex in late December, making it the largest health club provider in the Midwest, according to a release. Nebraska Elite Sports and Fitness Complex is a 108,000-square-foot facility that includes a fitness floor, indoor running track, cycling studio, weight and cardio machines, spa, dry sauna, steam room, tennis, basketball, volleyball, and a full-service day care. “This is a very exciting time for our company,” said Rodney Steven II, owner/president of Genesis Health Clubs, “We are so excited to continue to grow in Nebraska. With 10 locations in the state, it’s now our second largest market. We are a locally owned and operated business and we aren’t going anywhere. We plan on remodeling this club to bring in our brand and to transform it into one of the nicest facilities in the Midwest.”
When the United States entered the recession in 2008, fitness-conscious consumers had to make difficult decisions about how to stretch their tightening budgets without sacrificing exercise. This conundrum gave rise to the High Volume, Low Price (HVLP) model, and gym-goers began to trade in their high- and mid-range health club memberships for facilities that cost a fraction of the price.
The only problem was that, in some cases, with the low price came a poor experience. For the most part members were willing to put up with overcrowding and dirty facilities in exchange for savings. But the leadership team at Blink Fitness looked at the HVLP space and saw an opportunity.
“When we launched Blink Fitness in 2011, we challenged the paradigm that ‘you get what you pay for’ in the HVLP segment by offering our members a luxury experience and ‘Mood Above Muscle’ philosophy—a fresh approach to fitness that celebrates the positive feelings you get from exercise, not just the physical benefits,” says Todd Magazine, president of Blink Fitness.
And that fresh approach is reaping results. This month, Blink Fitness will open its 50th club, and it currently has more than 60 company-owned locations open or in development in the New York tri-state area and more than a quarter-million members.
5 Elements of Blink’s ‘Feel Good Experience’
Blink brings its Mood Above Muscle ethos to life with what they call their “Feel Good Experience,” which offers five things they believe no other gym in the HVLP segment is providing.
This Week in the Fitness Industry: Pittsburgh Steelers Upgrade Weight Room with PRIME Fitness Equipment
Pittsburgh Steelers Upgrade Weight Room with PRIME Fitness Equipment
The Pittsburg Steelers recently unveiled their new weight room at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex—a $10 million upgrade that features a variety of equipment, such as power racks, strength machines, and cardio equipment. Pennsylvania-based PRIME Fitness, owned by Specialty Fitness Systems, makes up a large portion of the strength equipment in the new weight room, according to a press release. “It’s an honor and privilege to have our equipment in the Steelers training facility,” said Rod Griffin, the president of Specialty Fitness Systems. “Being located so close to Pittsburgh, the majority of our 130+ employees are passionate about their beloved Steelers, so having the opportunity to play a role in the future success of the organization is something very special to our entire team.”
Part of the revamped UPMC Rooney Sports Complex features what the team has dubbed “Rack Row,” named for the rows of PRIME Steel power racks. “The PRIME Steel Power Racks play a large role in our daily training, so-much-so that we’ve added 6 of them in our rack row,” said Head Strength and Conditioning Coach Garrett Giemont. “PRIME Steel Racks combine both user and trainer features that are unlike anything else in the market, couple that with the durability and stability of American made quality – it makes for a perfect fit in our facility.”
Blink Fitness to Open its 50th Gym in December
Five years after Blink Fitness opened its first facility in 2011, the company is preparing to open its 50th gym in the Bedford Stuyvesant area of Brooklyn this December, according to a release. Blink, a subsidiary of Equinox, attributes this growth to the fitness industry veterans at Equinox recognizing the appeal of a luxury fitness experience in the value space. “They put the member experience first by focusing on design, emphasizing customer service, ensuring cleanliness, and providing superior equipment—all while offering memberships at a low cost (starting at just $15 per month),” the release states. “And the numbers prove that Blink was on to something: membership has more than tripled since the end of 2013 and revenue has more than doubled over the last two years. Blink’s unique value proposition has allowed the business to emerge within the high volume, low priced (HVLP) segment while competitive gyms in the mid-tier price range are contracting.”
Steve Nash Fitness Clubs Appoints New President and COO
SNFW Fitness BC Chairman and CEO Leonard Schlemm announced on Thursday that the organization appointed Chris Smith to President and COO of Steve Nash Fitness Clubs and UFC Gym. Smith joined the SNFW organization in 2010, relocating to British Columbia from the U.S. to assume the position of Vice President of Sales and Fitness. In 2014, he was named chief operating officer, managing operations for the brands 21 locations across BC, and was instrumental in the successful launch of the first UFC Gym located in Kelowna. "Chris is an exceptional leader with deep industry knowledge and experience who has done a truly impressive job since he initially joined the company,” Chairman Leonard Schlemm said. “With four new clubs opening over the next six months, we are excited to have Chris take on the additional role of President."
IHRSA Seeks Members for Innovation & Technology Advisory Council
We’re creating an advisory council on technology and innovation in order to ensure that IHRSA members have the necessary information and resources they need to capitalize on innovation and technology trends in their businesses. “Technology is changing the customer journey and the perception of brands,” says Rasmus Ingerslev, chair of IHRSA board of directors. “The next 20 years of technological development will match the last 100 years. The health club industry’s traditional four walls are being affected by wearables, tracking, streaming, and online exercise. This doesn’t mean the health club industry can’t compete, just that the industry must stay alert and up-to-date on these trends to become and remain relevant.” Learn more about the Innovation & Technology Advisory Council and how you can apply.
Time Magazine Examines the Proof that Exercise is a ‘Miracle Drug’
“As time goes on, paper after paper after paper shows that the most effective, potent way that we can improve quality of life and duration of life is exercise,” said Dr. Mark Tarnopolsky, a genetic metabolic neurologist at McMaster University in Ontario, in Time Magazine’s September cover story. The article, “The New Science of Exercise,” provides an in-depth look at the scientific proof backing up the long-standing belief that exercise works like a miracle drug. “Despite public-awareness campaigns, the health benefits of exercise have not been effectively communicated to the average American,” the article stats. “Humans are notoriously bad at assessing the long-term benefits–and risks–of their lifestyle choices. And vague promises that exercise is ‘good for you’ or even ‘good for the heart’ aren’t powerful enough to motivate most people to do something they think of as a chore. Humans are, however, motivated by rewards. That is why experts like Tarnopolsky are so focused on proving that the scientific benefits of exercise–slower aging, better mood, less chronic pain, stronger vision, the list goes on–are real, measurable and almost immediate.”
IHRSA Board Members Represent at the Motionsoft Technology Summit
A photo posted by IHRSA (@ihrsa) on Sep 16, 2016 at 8:25am PDT
Several IHRSA board members and former board members attended and spoke at the Motionsoft Technology Summit in Baltimore, MD, this week. Rick Caro, former IHRSA board president and president of Management Vision, Inc., spoke at the CIO Roundtable on Wednesday, and IHRSA Board Chair Rasmus Ingerslev presented the closing keynote address on Thursday. Read our full coverage of the Motionsoft Technology Summit.
Blink Fitness Asks Members to Audition for its 2017 Ad Campaign
Blink Fitness is inviting 300,000 members to use social media to enter the company’s brand-wide casting call for its 2017 ad campaign. The digital “audition” for the campaign, which is part of Blink’s continued effort’s to advocate for body positivity, will be open until October 7. More than 300 people have already applied since the September 12 launch. Following the submissions, the finalists will be chosen and called back to stand in front of a panel of influential “casting agents” to explain why feeling good is the new looking good. Panelists will include Dascha Polanco, known for her role as Dayanara Diaz on Orange is the New Black and NFL punter, Steve Weatherford. Blink’s 2017 campaign is an evolution of its “Every Body Happy” platform, which launched earlier this year.
IHRSA Submits Comments on Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program
On September 6, IHRSA formally submitted comments to the Center for Medicaid & Medicare Services (CMS) concerning the proposal that Medicare cover the cost of a preventative service incorporating physical activity and diet intervention—the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP). The MDPP stands to be the first ever preventative service model certified for expansion by the CMS Innovation Center. With the proposal that Medicare will cover the cost of MDPP, health clubs are in an advantageous position to administer the program and become a vital component in the healthcare system. The program consists of educational sessions on healthy habits for individuals at risk of diabetes, evidenced by blood test results (and covered by Medicare), beginning with an initial six-month period with a core curriculum. The curriculum incorporates the importance of physical activity in healthy living, in addition to nutrition and stress management. The primary goal of the program is weight loss and behavior change to prevent against diabetes—both goals achievable in a health club setting. Read our full coverage on IHRSA's Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program comments.
Blink Fitness Hides Mirrors to Promote Good Health over Looks
Blink Fitness recently launched its “Monday Without Mirrors” program, a month-long initiative in which key mirrors in clubs will be covered in order to challenge members to think about how exercise makes them feel and not just how it makes them look. The effort is in the same vein as the “Every Body Happy” campaign, which the Equinox-owned company launched earlier this year. "Fitness has never been just about looking a certain way for us," Todd Magazine, president of Blink Fitness, said in a release. "Through our 'Monday Without Mirrors' initiative, we're encouraging our members to take a stand with us—that exercise is good for our health. It's good for our minds. It builds confidence. It's not just about what you see in the mirror." For more on Blink Fitness, read Todd Magazine’s interview in Club Business International.
Team IHRSA Plays in NEHRSA's 35th Annual Golf Tournament
Some IHRSA staffers participated in NEHRSA's 35th Annual Golf Tournament on Thursday, June 9 at the Shining Rock Golf Club in Northbridge, MA. Joe Colotti (top right) from Executive Health & Sports Center as well the NEHRSA Board, addressed the crowd during the event.
Reebok’s #TrainerTribute Campaign Recognizes Fitness Instructors
Reebok’s new #TrainerTribute campaign “pays homage to the professional fitness instructors who see and cultivate the limitless potential of their students,” according to a press release by the fitness brand. “Reebok argues that their contributions to society are as valuable as those made by healthcare providers and educators; they motivate their clients to be healthy and teach people how to lead an active, productive lifestyle.” On June 9, the series kicked off with a film focusing on boxing and combat-style training. The campaign will continue throughout 2016, with more films featuring other fitness disciplines, such as CrossFit and Studio. For the campaign, Reebok has partnered with Handstand, an app that locates nearby personal fitness trainers. All instructors that sign up to Handstand will automatically become members of ReebokONE, the brand’s global network of fitness trainers.
Kids Running Programs Are on the Rise
New running programs are aiming to get children involved in the sport with the hope of making physical activity a part of their daily lives, reports The New York Times. Organizers of Global Running Day encouraged around a million children to pledge to run in the Million Kid Run on June 1, and Girls on the Run, a national organization that sponsors running programs, works to get girls into the sport from third through eighth grade. “There is no hard and fast rule for when kids can start running, said Dr. Danelle Fisher, the chair of pediatrics at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA,” The Times reports. “The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children and teenagers should not be encouraged to run full marathons, and many races already restrict entry by age. Runners must be 12 years old to run one of the New York Road Runners’ half-marathons and 18 to run the New York City Marathon.”


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Casual Ping Pong wins Mid East good food award
The uber-cool dim sum emporium in Dubai Mall wins best casual dining restaurant at the BBC Good Food Middle East Awards
Ping Pong, the uber-cool dim sum emporium in Dubai mall, was awarded best casual dining restaurant for 2011 at the BBC Good Food ME Awards that was held recently at the Ritz Carlton Hotel – DIFC which was attended by over 400 industry professionals including the regions top chefs, restaurants and produce suppliers.
Now in its second year, the BBC Good Food Middle East Awards has rapidly developed into the industry’s ‘foodie’ Oscars, an award much sought after within the food and beverage industry.
Each restaurant shortlisted for the awards, was nominated into the finals by public vote, from there an elite panel of judges visited each individual outlet anonymously to rate the food quality, service and ambience.
“Besides being recognised by an eminent panel of judges, it is extremely gratifying that our customers have voted for us. The award matches our concept perfectly, good quality food and efficient service, set in a casual dining environment,” said Angelo Rosato, General Manager of Ping Pong.
Ping Pong at Dubai Mall was the first outlet outside the UK with now having restaurants in Washington DC and Sao Paulo. All of Ping Pong’s dim sum is hand crafted by specialist chefs and the menu features a large selection of Chinese teas ranging from healthy traditional green tea through to flowering teas and fruit-based mocktails.
Ioana Mutu, marketing co-ordinator (pictured) who received the award on behalf of Ping Pong, commented: “We have said since inception that we serve the best little steamed parcels of deliciousness in the region. Maintaining a consistent brand message as well as delivering our promise has clearly paid off.”
Ping Pong Dim Sums operating hours are from 10:00am to midnight every day. Ping Pong is situated on the Lower Ground floor of The Dubai Mall overlooking the famous fountains. For bookings call +971 4 3399088 or for more details, please visit www.pingpongdimsum.ae.


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In 2014, China first announced work on its CBDC, the digital yuan. Since then, China has been releasing details about its CBDC and its use. It was only in October last year that we were able to read the announcement that China had consolidated its status as a pioneer of virtual currency thanks to legal support.
Why it matters
CBDC is the acronym for Central Bank Digital Currency, which the central bank can issue immediately to anyone who can receive it. At the same time, unlike cryptocurrencies, it is completely traceable, and with each coin you can trace the history of where it was used and who ever held it. However, it is not only a step forward in digitizing the world, but also an instrument so that people can spend more. Recently, China conducted a lottery where it selected winners for digital currency testing. They then downloaded the application and received a “red envelope” worth about $30 and could spend it at will. A successful test will mean that implementation will only be a matter of time.
What you can hear
However, the CBDC is not just in China. The central bank’s digital currency is being tested by many countries around the world, and many say it is the next step in digitization and security. However, other problems may arise. At this time, many people do not have access to a bank account or simple banking services. Because digital currencies require wallets on phones, there could be a future dilema where those who can’t or don’t want to work with technology will have no access to banks at all.
What it could mean
But the truth is that a few days ago, the digital yuan became official. Basically, the only thing left was the approval of SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication). Thus, China began to create its own digital economy. In the future, it could slowly begin to change the financial system as we know it today, and China is the first to officially issue its digital currency.
What you can do
Digital currencies do not work on the same principle as cryptocurrencies. If you would like to learn more about digital finances, you can start studying with our Platon Trading Academy, which will take you through the world of digital currencies from the beginning.


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29 May 2020
The TGA has initiated proceedings in the Federal Court of Australia in response to the alleged unlawful advertising of Miracle Mineral Supplement (MMS), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and other medicines by Southern Cross Directories Pty Ltd trading as MMS Australia.
28 May 2020
The TGA is reminding advertisers that therapeutic goods advertising must not undermine public health campaigns, as the cold and flu season begins in Australia and COVID-19 restrictions are eased.
22 May 2020
The TGA has issued a $12,600 infringement notice to Melbourne based company NutriPATH Pty Ltd for the alleged unlawful advertising of a COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test collection kit.
21 May 2020
The TGA has issued fifteen infringement notices totalling $37,800 to a doctor in Perth, including alleged unlawful advertising of therapeutic goods in relation to COVID-19.
7 May 2020
Information for hand sanitiser manufacturers, suppliers and advertisers about meeting their regulatory obligations.
7 May 2020
For sponsors and manufacturers wishing to make label claims of efficacy against COVID-19 for products that are either hard surface disinfectants or disinfectants that are medical devices
24 April 2020
The TGA has issued two infringement notices to Peter Evans' company totalling $25,200 for alleged breaches of therapeutic goods legislation in relation to the promotion of a 'BioCharger' device.
27 March 2020
The alleged contraventions relate to the advertising of hyperbaric oxygen therapy chambers, not included in the ARTG.
24 March 2020
The TGA will take action in relation to the illegal advertising of therapeutic goods, including those that make false and misleading claims about preventing or curing COVID-19


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For the past 10 years, while working for a local Chevy dealership, Jay
Bradley owned a stand-alone big box retail building in Norwalk, Conn. that he inherited from his father. Rents came in like clockwork from Linens ‘n Things and the property was managed by the store's general manager. Everything was fine for Bradley until Linens ‘n Things filed for bankruptcy and vacated the property.
So far this year, there have been 1,362 announced retail chain store closures due to bankruptcy or liquidation, according to NREI’s sister publication Retail Traffic. And another 1,175 store closures have been announced. Although property owners are not collecting rents in most cases, more brokerages are offering new services to preserve the value of these assets until they eventually are leased or sold. Services include cleaning, maintenance, security and repairs.
“One of the things that seems to be happening is that these big boxes are starting to go empty,” says Bob Frankel, senior managing director for New York-based FirstService Williams, which was initially hired to lease Bradley’s vacant building. The dark retail space was the first client for FirstService Williams’ asset preservation division.
With approximately 23 million sq. ft. under management in the Tri State Region that includes New York City, Northern New Jersey, Westchester, N.Y., and Fairfield City, Conn., FirstService decided to apply its property management expertise to empty facilities. The cost is less than $1,500 per month, and the contracts offer month-by-month flexibility.
The fee includes management tasks, ranging from cleanup for releasing to fixing structural and electrical problems, maintaining security and guarding against all potential liabilities. The service includes a 24/7 call desk and a hotline with field engineers.
Barring a sudden and miraculous economic turnaround, it is likely that more such opportunities will come to the forefront as owners seek to preserve the value of their properties. “[These opportunities] are certainly on the increase,” says Sam Delisi, senior managing director for the asset services group for brokerage CB Richard Ellis (CBRE) based in New York.
“We’re probably right now bringing on another nine Circuit City [stores], which would probably bring our current total to about 25,” Delisi explains. “I’m aware of another portfolio of 25 of these [stores] coming to the market.” This year, 567 Circuit City stores were slated for liquidation. The stand-alone buildings are typically 30,000 to 40,000 sq. ft. and in good locations — if not on a prime corner, then certainly nearby.
Delisi works with CBRE’s receivership and restructuring business and heads the retail initiative for asset services. “When we take them over, we’re generally hired as the receiver and we also do the property management, leasing and eventual disposition,” says Delisi.
Like FirstService Williams, CBRE cleans up the property, assesses and makes needed repairs, secures and keeps the property and parking lot safe from vandals and vagrants. During the summer, fans are run on a minimal basis to beat back humidity at the empty buildings. In winter, heat is turned on to prevent freezing pipes. The brokerage also manages a number of vacant Mervyns stores in California.
Karen Raquet, director of client relationship management of brokerage Jones Lang LaSalle, is not a new kid on the block. “We’ve done many receiverships throughout the years, but truthfully the vacant anchor opportunity is a new one for us.”
In February this year, Jones Lang LaSalle was appointed receiver of seven Boscov department stores spread across Pennsylvania and Maryland. The brokerage was recommended by the loan’s servicer, CW Capital, and then approved by the courts in each state. The Boscov store model is typically 250,000 sq. ft. spread over three floors.
While Raquet maintains that the property management function is no different for a vacant space than a leased one, she admits that managing these dark spaces as a receiver does entail additional skill. “The receiver is a whole different aspect because everything you do is in compliance with court orders,” she says. “And every court order is different.”
Tax appeals, for instance, must be done immediately, explains Raquet, given that a municipality is unlikely to offer to lower taxes on an empty building that’s producing no revenue. In addition, unlike managing dark properties for an individual owner, the receiver stays in place until the property sells.
Back in Connecticut, FirstService Williams is preparing to double its portfolio of six dark retail properties, all stand-alone and at least 20,000 sq. ft. How fast does a vacant property typically slip into decline? Once they go dark, cautions Frankel, it’s imperative that property maintenance resume in no less than 60 days.


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Micro business owners and freelancers are more optimistic than most UK business leaders amid fears and general economic uncertainty, new research has shown.
In the face of general economic uncertainty conditions brought on in part by hyperbolic Brexit commentary the owners of businesses with fewer than ten employees are more confident about the growth prospects of their business in the next six months than those at larger UK firms.
A survey, conducted by FreeAgent amongst 700 UK micro business owners and freelancers, found that 64 per cent predicted that their business would grow within the next six months, while 91 per cent believed theyd still be in business in a year’s time.
In contrast, only 1 per cent of micro business owners and freelancers said that they did not expect to still be running their business in 12 months because of the economy.
This comes despite just one in ten micro business owners and freelancers expecting the UK economy to improve over the same period. In the survey, 50 per cent of respondents revealed they expected the economic situation in Britain to worsen, while 28 per cent anticipated little change.
FreeAgent co-founder and CEO Ed Molyneux said the survey demonstrated the bullish nature of micro businesses and freelancers. Around 95 per cent of the UK’s total number of businesses are micro firms, so the more confident about their prospects they are, the better it is for the whole country, he said.
evidently the UK’s micro-business sector is proving its resilience, with a significant number of business owners planning to grow their ventures in the coming months.
the fact that the overwhelming majority also expect to still be trading in a year’s time shows that they are confident in their ability to weather the storm.
Recent research from the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE) found that Britain’s freelance workforce has increased by 43 per cent since 2008, adding 119bn to the economy in total in 2016.
Commenting on the contribution of freelancers, IPSE CEO, Chris Bryce, said: At a vital time when the economy needs to be dynamic in the face of growing uncertainty, freelancers are providing on-demand resources to businesses allowing them to be flexible in response to change.
Britain’s freelancers call for a statutory definition of self-employment


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In the images, the trio pose in an empty barn wearing classic Calvin Klein looks. The 14-year-old ‘Stranger Things’ star rocks red and white sports luxe in a white denim shirt with red accents and matching straight, tapered jeans with a bold, red stripe.
While 19-year-old Jackson reveals her toned abs in a peek-a-boo bralette and an indigo denim version of the high-waisted, striped jeans.
Lulu, on the other hand, sports a similar cowboy style shirt and matching jeans in a vivid red, teamed with a simple white tee.
OUR MOMENT. #MYCALVINS. @milliebobbybrown, @iamlulu_nyc, and @parisjackson are part of the CALVIN KLEIN family. Shot by @willyvanderperre. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ We’ve shown you our family, now show us yours. #MYCALVINS
A post shared by CALVIN KLEIN (@calvinklein) on Feb 22, 2018 at 7:01am PST
The advertisement is part of Calvin Klein’s “Our Family. #MyCalvins” campaign that has been a staple for the brand for several years, having featured everyone from Kendall Jenner to Solange.
According to the brand, the campaign features “family at its centre” and portrays “unity between strong individuals.”
OUR MOMENT. #MYCALVINS. @parisjackson finds her light. A new addition to the CALVIN KLEIN family, she is shot by @willyvanderperre. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ We’ve shown you our family, now show us yours. #MYCALVINS.
A post shared by CALVIN KLEIN (@calvinklein) on Feb 22, 2018 at 11:06am PST
In an interview with Refinery29 Millie explained that working with Calvin Klein is a dream come true.
“This will definitely be one of the most memorable things that I have ever done,” she said. “When I’m 90, I’m going to be like, I can’t believe that was me at 13!” (The ad was shot before her 14th birthday.)
She went on to reveal that the campaign was particularly special to her being British. “I’m English, and I’ve always looked up to the American style. Calvin Klein is Americana to me,” she says.
Since sharing images of the campaign to the Calvin Klein social media channels, fans have been going wild for the collaboration.
“Queens,” one user wrote simply.
— Dani The Fabulous (@wolfhxrdlovely) February 22, 2018
“Slay,” another wrote.
— Møphant Del Rey (@taina_pitanga) February 22, 2018
Honored and excited to be shot alongside my Calvin Klein family for the new CALVIN KLEIN JEANS global campaign. Thank you @calvinklein – love getting back together with @parisjackson and @iamlulu_nyc. Our moment. #MYCALVINS. #ad
A post shared by Millie Bobby Brown (@milliebobbybrown) on Feb 22, 2018 at 8:18am PST
This isn’t the first time that Millie Bobby Brown and Paris Jackson have teamed up with Calvin Klein.
Brown appeared in the “Calvin Klein by Appointment” ad campaign while Jackson has attended various catwalk shows as a guest of the brand.
They also both appeared in the music video for The XX’s song ‘I Dare You’ as part of a collaboration between the artists and the brand.
Read more from Yahoo Style UK:


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Is anyone noticing that the Black “Friday” sales are turning into Black Week and Weekend? Store hours are being extended everywhere this year.
Although stores have been expanding hours into Thanksgiving for a while now, many are starting to advertise their Black “Friday” sales starting this week. No longer is the start of the shopping season today, it will likely end up moving to the first of November if some retailers have their say on the matter.
And of course, we will always have the crazy people around to help them buttress their reasons for doing so. One lady KABC interviewed started lining up on Monday this week:
Black Friday is starting earlier and earlier. At many stores, it began Thursday night before the Thanksgiving dishes were even put away.
At the Citadel Outlets in Commerce, the doors opened at 8 p.m. Thursday – and were staying open for the next 27 hours.
Everywhere you looked there were lines – and deep discounts.
“We’re doing a lot of shopping,” said one shopper at The Citadel’s Nike Town store. “We’ve been waiting in the line for almost two hours. It’s go time.”
Similar sights were seen at other malls and big-box stores throughout the Southland.
At the Best Buy in Atwater Village, Karen Smith had slept outside the store since Monday.
This is her 14th year coordinating an army of family and friends, searching out the best deals.
“The items that aren’t ticketed, you gotta know where they’re at,” Smith said. “And then, you gotta have people because there’s going to be a long line paying, a long line going in and a long line everywhere.”
The big deals at Best Buy included $200 off Apple products including computers and iPads. And hundreds of dollars off on smart TVs.
“It’s a great deal,” Smith said. “The regular price is $499. And now it’s $179 – so, you do the math.”
Are you all doing the math?!


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Hyundai Motor Co and Kia Motors Corp may be the largest automakers in South Korea but they remain somewhat lesser known on the international markets. Of course, that is changing and their initially lower-priced models have been making their mark in an increasingly unstable global economy.
But both companies now expect sales will climb more than 4.5 percent this year as they plan to introduce new models as a means to counter even more fierce competition and global insecurity.
Indeed, Hyundai and Kia have both announced a combined target of delivering 8.25 million new vehicles in 2017. This is notably more than what they were able to deliver, combined, in 2016 (7.88 million units). This number falls right in line with what five industry analysts estimated: Hyundai expects to do about 5.08 million of these units, while Kia anticipates to do about 3.17 million units.
“Amid slowing global economic growth, uncertainties are rising more than ever as trade protectionism spreads and competition intensifies in the auto industry,” explains Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Mong-koo, who also urged “swift and flexible” responses to the growing uncertain global business environment.
More importantly, then, the two companies can estimate this growth thanks to new manufacturing plants in China and Mexico. This, they say, is from whence they will be able to raise output; and how they will be able to introduce new models to their existing catalog. This includes a new sport utility vehicle aimed specifically at attracting new buyers.
Chung Mong-Koo goes on to say, “With the global economy continuing its low growth, trade protectionism spreading and competition intensifying in the automobile industry, uncertainty is growing more than ever.”
Furthermore, Hyundai Motors has seen its fourth straight annual decline in profits. Higher exposure to weak emerging international markets and an outdated product catalog (more sedans than SUVs, hence the new model) continues to put pressure on the company.
As such, shares of Hyundai Motor fell for the third straight year, now down 2 percent versus the much wider market’s upswing of 3 percent. More dramatically, shares in Kia Motors fell 25 percent over the last year (which actually makes them the worst-performing stock of all major international car makers).


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New Delhi, July 23 (IANS) US-based Instacart’s Founder and Executive Chairman Apoorva Mehta has announced to step down from the online grocery delivery service he founded nearly a decade ago.
Instacart announced that CEO Fidji Simo has been appointed as Chair of the Board of Directors, effective as Mehta moves out from the board once Instacart becomes a public company.
“Since I transitioned from CEO to Executive Chairman a year ago, I realised that I want to pursue a new mission and I want to do it with the same singular focus that I had while building Instacart. Stepping off the board will allow me to do just that,” Mehta said in a tweet late on Friday.
Simo, a former Facebook executive, took over as CEO of Instacart when Mehta departed that role, and will be the future executive chairman of the board.
“Mehta realised more than a decade ago that grocery delivery was a core consumer need. He worked tirelessly with the team to create and build a successful model that allows consumers to access same-day delivery from their favorite grocers,” said Simo.
Simo thanked him “for all he has done for Instacart over the last decade”.
Instacart, partners with more than 800 national, regional, and local retail brands to facilitate online shopping, delivery and pickup services from more than 70,000 stores across more than 5,500 cities in North America on its Marketplace.
“Mehta created a company that is transforming the grocery industry. His hard work and dedication brought Instacart into the homes of millions of customers,” said Instacart Board Member Jeff Jordan.


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Wearing sunscreen has always been synonymous with “sun safety” and “skin cancer protection,” as it prevents the sun’s harmful ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from causing DNA damage. When it comes to broad-spectrum protection, a rule of thumb is: the higher the sun protection factor (SPF) the better. But new research is challenging the effectiveness of sun creams altogether. According to a study published in the journal Nature, UV light can sneak past sunscreen and cause long-term DNA damage to “anti-UV” genes, even with the use of an SPF 50 sunscreen.
This new research suggests sunscreen does not protect against the deadliest form of skin cancer — malignant melanoma — and should be used as a part of a sun safety regimen, not by itself. UV light targets genes, like the “guardian gene” called tp53, which normally helps protect us from its damaging effects. Excessive UV radiation can produce genetic mutations that can lead to skin cancer, since it damages the skin’s cellular DNA. “UV light targets the very genes protecting us from its own damaging effects, showing how dangerous this cancer-causing agent is,” said Professor Richard Marais, the lead investigator on the research, of Manchester University, in PLOS Blogs.
Marais and his colleagues from Manchester University and London’s Institute of Cancer Research sought to examine how UV light causes cancer at a molecular level to understand how effective sunscreen can be with skin protection. The researchers expressed mice with a faulty BRAF gene — known to increase the risks of developing melanoma. After a month, the backs of these mice were shaved, with half of each back protected with an UVR-protected cloth. The other half was exposed to a low dose of UVR enough to mimic mild sunburns in humans.
Within a 24-hour period, the mice experienced a change in the tp53 — a gene that helps suppress tumors — and had sunburn cells present in the UVR-exposed skin. After seven days, the skin became rough to the touch, and thickened. This and other UVR-induced changes occurred while the exposed skin darkened. All of the BRAF-induced mice who were exposed to UVR, developed tumors, as 98 percent were formed in the area exposed to UV light.
These findings emphasize the important impact of tp53, which usually activates the release of protein that protects against UV. The researchers noted UV radiation targets the very thing that defends the skin, which sunscreen cannot protect against. Sun cream can only help limit the immediate effects of UV light on the skin to stop sunburn. “But sunscreen does not protect the skin completely — enough UV light sneaks past to cause long term damage to the DNA,” Marais said.
The cosmetics industry claims it has never said sunscreen could stop cancer. Dr Chris Flower, director general of the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association, told the Daily Mail. “We can’t use the term ‘sunblock’ or anything that suggest there is 100 per cent protection. We can’t say total protection, the strongest term we can use is ‘very high’ protection” The Food and Drug Administration requires sunscreen to protect against all types of sun-induced skin damage labeled "Broad Spectrum" and “SPF 15” (or higher) on the front. Although higher SPF values indicate higher levels of overall protection, sunscreen alone will not suffice when it comes to sun protection.
The Skin Cancer Foundation advises everyone follow its comprehensive prevention guidelines, which recommend wearing sunscreen, along with practicing other sun safety habits. We tend to think we are invincible when we apply sunscreen onto our body every two hours in its highest SPF form, but the longer we’re out in the sun, the more we’re increasing our UV ray exposure. Wearing a hat, loose-fitting clothing, and seeking shade when the sun is at its highest point are some tips to keep in mind, and can help decrease the 3.5 million skin cancers cases diagnosed annually.
Source: Cook M, Dhomen N, Ejiama S et al. Ultraviolet radiation accelerates BRAF-driven melanomagenesis by targeting TP53. Nature. 2014.


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New trailer for Need For Speed: Most Wanted on the Wii U shows off co-driver gameplay
EA has released a new trailer for Need For Speed: Most Wanted on the Wii U showing off the new co-driver features.
Naturally given the the Wii U's intended audience the trailer shows a father and son playing together with the dad taking over the driving duties from the son who's playing on the gamepad itself.
After switching to the big screen the son uses the pad to give his dad directions and disrupt the cops chasing them.
Need For Speed: Most Wanted will arrive on the Wii U next week with the US release on March 19th and the European release on March 21st.
- Bungie explains their latest weapon balancing efforts in Destiny, promises more is coming
- Blizzard aiming to release Hearthstone on Android tablets by the end of the year
- Former BioWare man Casey Hudson hints at an Oculus Rift project
- Dark Souls on PC to switch from Games For Windows Live to Steam next month
- Square Enix announces details and pricing on the premium livestream of Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival 2014
- First Challenge Mode DLC arrives next week for Alien: Isolation
- Metallica to close out this year's BlizzCon
- Free DLC adds a new skin and runes to Shadow Of Mordor
- ESL Gaming app arrives for the Xbox One


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Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom will be bringing whimsical fantasy and gorgeous graphics to PlayStation 4 this year, a Bandai Namco press release has confirmed ahead of time. Snapped by Kotaku's Jason Schreier, the text has the Japanese role-playing title pegged for a 10th November 2017 date. Nice.
While the game has always been slated to launch this year, there's definitely been speculation over whether it would actually hit its 2017 target. We certainly had our doubts as well - we're so used to delays these days that we thought it would inevitably be pushed into 2018. Not the case, it seems.
We imagine this date will be officially confirmed later today - possibly during Sony's press conference. Are you happy about this news? Celebrate in the comments section below.


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Chennai, July 9 (PTI): Logistics service providers in the country should look at setting up a hub at the Port of Antwerp, Belgium, to enhance connectivity with Europe, an official of Port Authority said on Friday.
The port can present itself as a venue for centralised stocking and distribution point for Indian maritime cargo exporters across Europe and the United Kingdom, said vice- president of the Authority (international relations) Luc Arnouts. He said this while taking part in an online conference 'Translating the India-EU Trade Enhancement and Connectivity Plan into Action' organised by the Madras Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Port of Antwerp.
Arnouts urged logistics service providers to explore the idea of 'India hub at the Port of Antwerp' to enable exporters in India to use the facility and emerge as reliable suppliers to their customers in Europe.
According to the Madras Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the conference was organised in the backdrop of India-EU leaders meeting presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May this year. PTI VIJ NVG NVG


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Unilever surges to multi-year highs as it rejects Kraft Heinz offer
Unilever shares surged on Friday after the London-listed consumer goods giant rejected a $143bn offer from Kraft Heinz.
Kraft noted recent speculation about a deal between the two and said it has made a “comprehensive proposal to Unilever about combining the two groups to create a leading consumer goods company with a mission of long-term growth and sustainable living”.
“While Unilever has declined the proposal, we look forward to working to reach agreement on the terms of a transaction. There can be no certainty that any further formal proposal will be made to the board of Unilever or that an offer will be made at all or as to the terms of any transaction.”
Unilever said in a statement that the offer from Kraft represents a premium of 18% to the closing share price on Thursday, which it believes “fundamentally undervalues” the group. Kraft offered Unilever $50.00 per share in a mix of $30.23 per share in cash payable in US dollars and 0.222 new enlarged entity shares per existing Unilever share.
“Unilever rejected the proposal as it sees no merit, either financial or strategic, for Unilever's shareholders. Unilever does not see the basis for any further discussions.”
The company recommended that its shareholders take no action and said it will make further announcements as appropriate.
Nicholas Hyett at Hargreaves Lansdown said: "With Kraft Heinz saying it’ll be coming back to the table, it looks like the initial offer was just to test the water."
Meanwhile, Neil Wilson, senior market analyst at ETX Capital, said: "Unilever is a £100+bn company and this would be one of the biggest corporate tie-ups on record. Unilever rejected the bid but Kraft is likely to make another bid for more cash. It could be a very expensive strategy by Kraft but there are plenty of easy wins in terms of combining operations. Just as well Warren Buffett’s pockets are deep.
"Few initial thoughts – would competition authorities let this one through? It could come up against a number of hurdles as it would create a giant in the sector. EU regulators in particular could be against it. Kraft Heinz has the experience to drive the integration. Costs synergies are the name of the game – combing ops and supply chains. Both are coming into this on the back foot a touch. Unilever sales growth has slowed and come in below expectations while Kraft posted a 3.7% drop in the 4th quarter."
Wilson added that the combined entity would have a huge brand footprint and be able to flex bargain muscles even more with supermarkets.
RBC Capital Markets said this sort of premium has often proven inadequate in consumer staples M&A, so it is not surprised about Unilever’s explicit rejection.
"Moreover, the fact that Unilever said it ‘sees no merit, either financial or strategic’ and ‘does not see the basis for any further discussion’ makes us also wonder if Unilever’s focus on sustainability might make it very resistant to any further approach from Kraft. In any case, we believe Kraft will likely need to raise its offer substantially if it hopes to change the outcome.”
Shares in Unilever sprang higher on the news, hitting technical resistance at 3,807.5p, the 10 November 2016 intra-day highs (and previous 52-week high), but as of 1400 GMT were trading at 3,804.50p.
Kraft's mooted offer price equated to 4,024p at the then current exchange rate for cable of 1.2424.
Shares in the company were also trading at their loftiest levels in more than a decade.
Kraft was up 5.41% to $92.00 in pre-market trading on the NYSE.


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The manufacturer of the computer game Fortnite is no longer allowed to create apps for Apple devices such as the iPhone. The measure is a new step by Apple in the conflict with game producer Epic Games.
The free game Fortnite was until recently offered in Apple’s appstore, as well as the coins used in the game that do have to be paid for. Epic did not agree that Apple charged 30 percent commission on the sales price and therefore decided to arrange payments outside Apple.
Apple did not accept and removed Fortnite from its appstore. Epic went to court earlier this week and ruled in a preliminary decision that Apple does not need to re-introduce Fortnite into its appstore
Apple now goes a step further by depriving Epic of the ability to offer new games in the appstore. Epic has a similar conflict with Google. Google has also removed Fortnite from its appstore.


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Monrovia businesses basked in the limelight this week. One local company had its featured in the new movie Act of Valor, and Monrovia's district was featured in a national commercial. Read on for more:
- Huntington Drive tech firm Aerovironment's Raven spy drone played a prominent role in the , where it can be seen being launched and flown during a reconnaisance mission.
- The alt-rock band Neon Trees filmed a commercial for Buick, and it has started airing. Check it out here. A Jeep commercial was also filmed on Foothill last month.
- Monrovia-based charity has sent aid workers to Mali to respond to a refugee crisis.
- The city's business blog profiled new business Antiques on Fair Oaks, which recently moved to Monrovia from Pasadena
- The Gold Line has invited local small businesses to join the Foothill Extension project by becoming subcontractors.
- A new store on Huntington will have its grand opening on Saturday, Mar. 10, according to Monrovia Now.
- Monrovia lost out on the liquor front this week, as the Greenbar Distillery moved to Los Angeles.
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles opened up a shop that will sell children's eyewear in Monrovia called Children's Optical.
- Michelle's Upscale Resale Boutique moved to a location on Myrtle where used to be.


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In contrast to the rest of the advertising industry, UK online adspend is set for a bumper year, with growth of over 100% according to Omnicom unit Optimedia.
The agency forecasts total spend on internet ads of £210 million in 2001, compared to £100m last year. By 2005 the figure will have jumped to £710m.
Optimedia also pointed to the rapid adoption of digital TV, with Sky Digital as the most popular operator. However, digital cable TV uptake is also expected to soar in 2001.
News Source: CampaignLive (UK)


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The Economic and Social Research Council claimed that surfers will only divulge information to trusted online third parties.
"Even people who have previously demonstrated a high level of caution regarding online privacy will accept losses to their privacy if they trust the recipient of their personal information," said study leader Dr Adam Joinson of the School of Management at the University of Bath.
The findings of the study are potentially valuable for those aiming to create online services that pose a potential privacy threat, such as government agencies involved in developing ID cards.
The project found that even those people who declared themselves unconcerned about privacy would soon become opposed to ID cards if the way that they were asked for information made them feel that their privacy was threatened.
To address these issues the Privacy and Self-Disclosure Online project has been created using funding from the Economic and Social Research Council.
"For the first time we have research which actually analyses what people do online, rather than just looking at what they say they do," said Dr Joinson.
The research suggested that 56 percent of internet users have concerns about privacy when they are online. The central issue was whether websites were seen as particularly trustworthy or untrustworthy causing users to alter their behaviour.
When a website is designed to look trustworthy, people are willing to accept privacy violations. But the same actions by an untrustworthy site lead people to behave in a much more guarded manner.
The researchers also looked at how the wording of questions and the design of response options further influenced levels of self-disclosure.
If the response 'I prefer not to say' appears at the top of an options list, users are far less likely to disclose information.
Similarly, if given the opportunity to remain vague in their responses, for instance in choosing the scale that represents their salary, they are more likely to opt for less disclosure.
In this case, users tended to opt for a broad salary scale, such as £10,000 - £50,000 per year.
"Even people who genuinely have a high level of concern regarding privacy online may act in a way that is contrary to their stated attitudes when they come across a particular set of conditions," said Dr Joinson.
The research concluded that the way in which a user assesses the trustworthiness of a website may have a real impact on the success of online services.
Success of online services down to trust
By Robert Jaques on Nov 23, 2007 7:32AM