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UKHospitality calls on prime minister to support sector with common sense immigration policy: UKHospitality has called on prime minister Theresa May to apply common sense to future migration for the “sake of the British economy” as she heads to Brussels for Brexit negotiations. In a letter to May, Brexit minister Dominic Raab and home secretary Sajid Javid, the trade body warned growth in the hospitality sector would be severely hampered without suitable access to non-UK workers, at least in the short term. The letter states that unless the UK’s future immigration policy allows workers of all skill levels to work in the UK easily and affordably, hospitality businesses would be unable to meet projected growth. UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “Hospitality businesses are putting considerable effort into providing opportunities for UK workers. Three-quarters of our workforce is home-grown and we invest significant amounts into apprenticeship schemes to build the workforce of the future from here in the UK. The reality is, though, that hospitality businesses do need to supplement their workforces with non-UK workers, particularly given the record employment rate, if they want to keep pace with projected growth. If following the UK’s withdrawal from the EU there is no system in place to ensure employers can access labour, businesses will struggle and consumers will suffer through higher prices and falling service levels. We need to see a mutually beneficial migration policy established as part of trade deals following Brexit. This should go hand-in-hand with reforms to tier two migrants who are coming to the UK to work. The government should seriously reconsider thresholds for all migration otherwise hospitality businesses on our high streets will struggle to provide further jobs and investment in local communities.”
Hawthorn Leisure reports return to profit in year before its acquisition by NewRiver for £106.8m: Hawthorn Leisure has reported a return to profit in the year before it was acquired by NewRiver for £106.8m. Hawthorn Leisure saw pre-tax profit of £1,934,000 for the year ending 31 December 2017, compared with a loss of £10,699,000 the year before. Revenue increased to £42,396,000, compared with £41,534,000 the previous year. Adjusted Ebitda was up to £9,928,000 compared with £8,990,000 the year before, according to accounts filed at Companies House. There were no acquisitions during the period (2016: 11 pubs). During the year, the group sold 20 pubs (2016: 32 pubs), resulting in an estate of 301 sites as of 31 December 2017. In their report accompanying the accounts, the directors stated: “In June 2017 the group successfully renegotiated its key wet supply contracts. This has improved drink margins across the group as well as providing working capital benefits as payment terms became more favourable. Improvements have been in trading performance as well as through the reduction in finance costs and net reversals of impairments of £2,827,000 (2016: impairment charge of £3,417,000). The group continued to enhance tenant and operator relationships and invested a further £3,322,000 (2016: £2,890,000) in the pub estate during the year. At 31 December 2017, three-quarters of the trading estate had received significant capital investment and the group is well positioned to develop its business model and continue the programme of investment over the coming years. Noah Bulkin, a former Merrill Lynch and Lazard banker, founded Hawthorn Leisure in 2014 when he bought 275 pubs from Greene King and 88 from R&L, the pub portfolio that previously belonged to Robert Tchenguiz’s property estate. NewRiver acquired Hawthorn Leisure from an affiliate of Avenue Capital Group in May for an enterprise value of £106.8m. This represented a net initial yield based on the value of the pub portfolio of 13.6%.
Punch appoints Russell Danks as new marketing and strategy director:Punch has appointed Russell Danks as its new marketing and strategy director. Danks, founder of business strategy, trends and change agency Future Factory London, joins the Punch team this month and will take over the leadership of its marketing team and strategy implementation. Chief executive Clive Chesser said: “This is a really exciting time for Punch as we build a bold and dynamic business and I am thrilled Russell will be joining the team. Russell’s energy, leadership and experience in the hospitality sector will help us to deliver plans that are relevant and that add significant value to our publicans running pubs up and down the country.” Before founding Future Factory London, Danks held senior executive roles with brewer and retailer Greene King, KFC and P&O Cruises. Danks added: “This is an awesome opportunity to work with the Punch team on its exciting and ambitious plan. I am looking forward to working with the teams and getting to know our publicans and pubs across the country to help them create epic pubs at the heart of their communities.”
BrewDog raises £26.2m as it closes Equity for Punks V campaign: Scottish brewer and retailer BrewDog has raised £26.2m in its Equity for Punks V crowdfunding campaign. The company has closed its latest funding round, which included a return to Crowdcube to tap into its investors. BrewDog was aiming to raise a minimum of £22m through Equity for Punks V. About 50,000 people invested in the latest campaign, bringing the total number of shareholders across the five rounds to 94,000. The funds raised through Equity for Punks V will support BrewDog in expanding its breweries in Ellon, Scotland, and Columbus, Ohio, as well as accelerating the construction of its brewery in Brisbane, Australia, and its plans to build a brewery in China. Last week BrewDog unveiled its blueprint, which outlines its plans for the next ten years. It includes starting a bar franchise programme and relaunching its Development Fund, with up to £200,000 available each year to help small craft brewers and startups become established. Co-founder James Watt said: “Equity for Punks V is the most successful equity crowdfunding round the world has ever seen. We’re thrilled to have expanded our awesome global community, which is the lifeblood of our business.”
Bruce Group reports turnover and Ebitda boost: Edinburgh-based multi-site pub and hotel operator Bruce Group has reported turnover increased to £7,578,451 for the year ending 30 June 2018, compared with £6,288,897 the year before. Ebitda jumped to £1,007,858, compared with £624,683 the previous year. Pre-tax profit dropped to £607,744 compared with £1,822,371 the year before, according to accounts filed at Companies House. In their report accompanying the accounts, the directors stated: “The focus of the group remains in Edinburgh’s Old Town but it made its first foray into the student town of Stirling with the purchase of Dusk. This was acquired as part of a package that included two units in Edinburgh’s Old Town. The directors are confident it will prove to be a valuable asset as it benefits from steady trade in an area where it has limited competition. The group also ventured outside Edinburgh to make acquisitions to grow its tenanted estate and this will be an area of focus over the forthcoming year. The major new units acquired had no significant impact on sales as these were acquired close to the financial year end. More than £4m was spent in acquiring the units and maintaining the current estate, with the refurbishment of the George IV being the major project completed during the year. This saw a complete remodelling of the unit leading to an increase in useable floor space and early results after reopening are promising. The flagship venue, Stramash, continues to go from strength to strength, with sales increasing 25% on the prior year. Additional loan funding of £3.2m was taken on to help fund the expansion while £228,738 of capital was repaid. The group completed a restructuring during the year to segregate its tenanted and managed estates into separate legal entities. This has had no impact on overall group numbers but has been completed to improve internal operational management. The business is still predominantly focused on the Old Town area of Edinburgh and this will remain a key trading area. Expansion into other geographic areas will be considered but this is most likely to be driven by expansion of the tenanted estate.”
Wright & Bell to open Lino next month as it heads to City for third venue:Restaurant and bar company Wright & Bell, which is backed by the Imbiba Partnership, is to open its third site next month. The company will launch Lino on Friday, 9 November in a former carpet warehouse in the Square Mile that is a stone’s throw from St Bart’s Hospital and tucked behind Smithfield Market. The centrepiece of the room will be a clover-shaped, tulipwood bar. Decorated in shades of peach, salmon pink and rustic green with antique brass fixtures, the space takes cues from minimalist Finnish design. The bar will be lined with shelves of craft spirits and jars of house ferments to be mixed into cocktails including witty takes on favourites such as the snowball. The kitchen will use low-waste ingredients across the all-day menu. Dishes will include Belted Galloway wing rib of beef, and oxtail and potato tart. Managing director Sarah Clark said: “We are opening Lino in an incredible space – a beautiful building with an industrial heritage. Both a bar and restaurant, Lino has been designed with its guests and team in mind, taking a new, considered approach to drinking and dining in the City.” Wright & Bell also operates The Kitty Hawk and The Back Room Wine Bar, both in Finsbury Park, north London.
Jason Atherton launches three restaurants at Shanghai hotel: Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton has launched three restaurants at The Shanghai Edition hotel in China. It is Atherton’s third venture with hotelier and designer Ian Schrager. The hotel consists of two towers and incorporates the refurbishment of Shanghai Power Company’s former headquarters, which houses one of Atherton’s new restaurants, Shanghai Tavern. The restaurant is on the ground floor, is similar to London sibling Berners Tavern and offers a brasserie-style menu. The new tower features 145 bedrooms and suites accompanied by Atherton’s other restaurants – HIYA, a Japanese restaurant on the 27th floor, and Canton Disco, a Cantonese-style restaurant on the third floor. HIYA, which translates as “clouds in the sky” in Japanese, takes inspiration from The Social Company’s flagship izakaya-style restaurant Sosharu in London and features a rooftop bar with views of the Huangpu river. Canton Disco is Atherton’s first partnership with Hong Kong-based restaurant group Black Sheep. It offers traditional Cantonese-inspired dishes with a contemporary twist. All three outlets are being overseen by chef-de-cuisine Scott Melvin, who has worked with Atherton for the past 14 years. Atherton said: “Ian has been a very important figure in my life since embarking on our partnership, first with Berners Tavern in London and then The Clocktower in New York, which was awarded a Michelin star in 2017. For us to bring our flagship restaurants to Shanghai is incredible.”
Domino’s Pizza reports global sales up 8.3% in third quarter: Domino’s Pizza has reported global sales increased 8.3% in its third quarter. Like-for-like sales were up 6.3% in the US and 43.3% in the international division. The quarter marked the 99th consecutive quarter of international like-for-like sales growth and the 30th consecutive quarter in the US. Total revenue increased to £785,965,000, compared with £643,642,000 the previous year. The company added 253 stores during the period – 192 internationally and 61 in the US. It shut 21 sites – 19 internationally and two in the US. Diluted earnings per share was up 65.3% to $1.95. Chief executive Ritch Allison said: “Our US business once again executed at extremely high levels in the third quarter. Our global business, driven by strong retail sales growth and franchisee economics that outperformed the industry, continued its strong momentum.”
Nando’s drops plans to convert historic London library: Nando’s has dropped its plans to take over a library in east London where the GMB was born after pressure from the trade union. The company had applied to Newham Council to convert the ground floor Canning Town library, which is grade II-listed, and the neighbouring public hall that hosted political speakers such as trade unionist Keir Hardie and suffragette Sylvia Pankhurst. After a meeting there in 1889, Will Thorne formed the National Union of Gasworkers and General Labourers, which later became the GMB. Thorne also helped organise the London Dock Strike of the same year. The GMB fought Nando’s plans, saying it was “bird-brained” and showed an “utter disregard for east London’s proud history”. It wants to turn the building into offices for its staff. Commenting on Nando’s withdrawing its plan, GMB London regional secretary Warren Kenny told the Evening Standard: “There is a time and a place for chicken, but a historic library that forms part of the fabric of Newham’s community was never it.” The council argued the building was costing “£2,000 per week to maintain” and Nando’s was its “preferred occupier”. A Nando’s spokesman said: “It has become clear the history of the library building and its deep association with certain groups in the community means there are very strong feelings about how it should be used. As a result of these unique circumstances, we have decided not to proceed with our application.”
Vaulkhard Group gets licence for third Barluga, takes over Ponteland pub:Newcastle leisure firm Vaulkhard Group has been granted a licence for a third site for its Barluga brand, in Gosforth. The company has had its application approved by Newcastle City Council for a former Loch Fyne restaurant, which brewer and retailer Greene King closed in July. Vaulkhard Group’s six-month refurbishment of the former church, which is more than 100 years old, will include a new bar and toilets. Meanwhile, the company has taken over management of The Diamond Inn in Ponteland. The group intends to run the pub in Main Street as it is, although it plans to invest in an interior refit in mid-2019. Ollie Vaulkhard, joint-owner and director, told Insider Media: “We are delighted our reputation and track record helped secure the licence for Barluga in Gosforth and to take over The Diamond in Ponteland. We’re excited about welcoming customers into these venues.” Vaulkhard’s other Barluga bar restaurants are in Grey Street in Newcastle city centre and Morpeth. The company’s portfolio consists of 16 sites in the north east including three venues for its Central Bean coffee shop concept and two for its Blakes Tea Room brand.
Timothy Taylor puts Harrogate Brasserie on market as it focuses on brewing interests: Keighley-based brewer Timothy Taylor has put its Harrogate Brasserie on the market as it focuses on its brewing interests. The company, which operates 19 sites across Yorkshire, is marketing the property through agents Christie & Co. Occupying a stone-built, three-storey building, the property features a restaurant as well as 14 bedrooms and apartments. In addition to the main Harrogate Brasserie building, there is a terraced townhouse currently used by hotel guests that is also included in the sale. Timothy Taylor purchased Harrogate Brasserie from Richard Finney to develop it as a flagship outlet in the Yorkshire town. After two years the operator has decided to sell the site without planned developments going ahead to focus on significant investment in its brewery. Chief executive Tim Dewey said: “While many breweries have evolved to place more focus on their pub estate, our main efforts have always been on brewing. Since acquiring Harrogate Brasserie we have come to realise our limitations in this area, given our size and expertise. As a result, our hope is to sell Harrogate Brasserie to a leisure specialist that can do this fantastic outlet justice. In the meantime, we look forward to continuing to offer our beer to our strong Harrogate following through the many outlets that stock our beer in the town.” Harrogate Brasserie has an asking price of offers in excess of £1.35m for the freehold interest of the main building and offers in excess of £1.675m for the freehold interest of the main building plus the house on a share sale basis with Harrogate Brasserie.
Stonegate to launch Popworld in Morecambe next month for 29th site: Stonegate Pub Company is to open a venue for its party brand Popworld in Morecambe, Lancashire, next month. The company will launch the venue in Marine Road Central on Wednesday, 21 November following an £800,000 conversion of its Kings Arms pub. The site will be the brand’s 29th. Popworld features a soundtrack from the nineties and noughties alongside cocktails, bookable booths and cocktail masterclasses. Popworld brand manager Jamie Rosenfeld said: “We are so excited to bring Popworld to Morecambe for the first time. We have had such great success over the past few years and are continuing to grow as a brand, throwing unforgettable parties across the UK. With this new site we can’t wait to show off what we are all about and provide a great party for all!” In August, Stonegate said it would have 35 Popworld sites open by the end of 2018.
SSP Group launches Bazzar Caffè at Düsseldorf airport: SSP Group, the operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations worldwide, has brought a taste of Italian coffee culture to Düsseldorf airport in Germany with the launch of its first site with franchise partner Bazzar Caffè. The 84-cover venue is at one of the airport’s departure lounges and spans 200 square metres. The steam punk-styled outlet features an interior that blends “retro and futuristic elements”. The concept offers breakfast, cakes, tapas and salads, while Bazzar-themed merchandise is available to buy from an adjacent retail store. The concept is the brainchild of Aydin Kirici, who said: “This concept has been exclusively designed from the ground up for passengers at Düsseldorf airport. All furniture is tailor-made and each element is bespoke. Italy is famous for the highest level of espresso coffee culture and this venture continues the tradition.” With the addition of Bazzar Caffè, SSP now operates 11 restaurants and food outlets at Düsseldorf airport, as well as an on-site conference centre. Jan Kamp, director business development and properties, SSP DACH region, said: “High-quality products and outstanding culinary concepts are key criteria when selecting our franchise partners – Bazzar Caffè features those characteristics.” Pia Martina Klauck, head of commercial operations at Düsseldorf airport, added: “We seek a mix of internationally known brands and regional, individual concepts so we are delighted to open Bazzar Caffè in co-operation with SSP.”
Hook co-founder to open debut solo restaurant, at Pop Brixton: Simon Whiteside, chef and co-founder of seafood restaurant Hook in Camden, is to open his first solo venture. Whiteside will launch Roe at Pop Brixton on Wednesday, 7 November. Located in a shipping container, the restaurant will seat 32 guests including a terrace. The stripped-back interiors will feature two communal tables made from reclaimed wood, each seating eight guests, vintage-style bulkhead lights along the wall and an open kitchen. Roe will focus on sustainable seafood from the British and Irish coast using small, independent suppliers only. The ever-changing menu will offer small and larger plates drawing on Whiteside’s Irish heritage. Dishes will include ray wing with Jerusalem artichoke and wild mushrooms; and confit sea trout with sea greens and oyster and sorrel emulsion. The drinks list will feature a small flight of cocktails alongside wine, beer and soft drinks. Whiteside said: “My wife Cairene and I have been talking about the Roe concept for a while and we’re looking forward to serving tasty and affordable food. Opening a place without investors is daunting but it will give us the freedom to do so much more than before.”
TGI Friday’s to open Greater Manchester restaurant: TGI Friday’s is to open a restaurant in Greater Manchester. The company has secured a site at Middlebrook Retail Park. TGI Friday’s has agreed a 15-year lease with landlord Orbit Developments for a 10,500 square foot unit previously occupied by Next, which has relocated to a bigger site at the complex. The restaurant is set to create more than 80 jobs when it opens next year. Mark Hanna, Orbit Developments senior retail leasing, told Insider Media: “We are very pleased Middlebrook continues to attract such strong operators. We’re always working to include new brands in an effort to enhance the line-up and drive footfall.”
Team behind Brixton restaurant Salon to launch sister site in Peckham this month: The team behind Brixton restaurant Salon will launch a sister site in Peckham this month. Nicholas Balfe, Mark Gurney and Matt Bushnell will open Levan on Wednesday, 31 October in Blenheim Grove. It will focus on contemporary European dishes and take inspiration from “new-wave bistronomy”. Levan will be housed in a converted warehouse and consist of two main spaces – a large dining area and a bar with high tables for walk-ins. The restaurant will offer pastries and croque monsieur in the morning, while the lunch menu will reflect European bistro classics such as potato, chanterelle and vacherin pie. The evening menu will consist of smaller sharing plates and heartier dishes such as smoked pollack with spinach and 50-day aged rump with wild garlic aioli. The drinks list will include French wine and bespoke cocktails. Balfe said: “I am looking forward to bringing our sustainable approach to cooking to a more European-style restaurant. We picked the name because we’re all huge fans of Larry Levan, an iconic music producer and DJ who essentially tore up the rulebook and wrote the blueprint for what dance music would become. It’s this sense of freedom of expression that ties the work of Larry to the work of our favourite left-field wine-makers today, which will be a huge focus at the new restaurant. He changed the way people thought about music and we’re seeing the beginning of a shift in the way people think about wine.”
One of England’s oldest inns on market for £1.1m: One of the oldest inns in England has gone on the market for £1.1m. Believed to have been licensed as long ago as 1384, The Shaven Crown in the village of Shipton-under-Wychwood, Oxfordshire, is being marketed by Colliers International following an extensive refurbishment. Originally constructed as a hospice for monks at nearby Bruern Abbey, the grade II-listed building retains many of its medieval features including the Great Hall, which now serves as a lounge. A staircase leads to seven letting rooms. The bar seats 30 drinkers and features a beamed ceiling and fireplace, a snug and an 18-cover breakfast room. The 30-cover restaurant has a huge open fireplace, while the private dining room can seat ten. Peter Brunt, a director with the hotels team at Colliers International, said: “The present owners set about an ambitious refurbishment. They enjoyed the process of creation but the operation, great as it is, has sadly had a greater-than-expected effect on family life. For this reason alone, they have decided to sell, giving purchasers an opportunity to acquire a fully refurbished business with an opportunity to further develop trade.”
Edwardian Hotels launches shared dining concept in Manchester:Edwardian Hotels has opened a restaurant at its Manchester site that embraces the “art of shared dining”. Peter Street Kitchen “spearheads” the food and beverage offering at the revitalised Radisson Blu Edwardian hotel. Guests can choose small plates from two cuisines – contemporary Japanese and Mexican – including shredded crab with spicy ginger mayo tostadas, and yellowtail sashimi with spicy yuzu soy. The Bar And Rikyu Lounge complements the restaurant, offering yuzu-flavoured sake and cocktails. Edwardian Hotels London service excellence director Amir Jati, who has overseen the project, said: “This concept has proved enormously popular in London, with Leicester Square Kitchen in the top five of both Peruvian and Mexican restaurants. We know Peter Street Kitchen will be a similar game-changer in Manchester’s booming restaurant scene.
Peel Hunt – cost growth is eclipsing recovery at Merlin Entertainments:Peel Hunt leisure analyst Ivor Jones has said cost growth is eclipsing recovery at Merlin Entertainments. Issuing a ‘Buy’ note on the shares with a target price of 450p following the company’s trading update for the 40 weeks to 6 October and an analysts’ meeting, Jones said: “There has been much focus on the labour-cost pressures flagged by management and the potential pressure on margins in FY19. With continued post-terrorism underlying recovery and the benefit of capex, FY19 has the potential to be a solid year despite increased costs. We are not changing our bottom-of-range £512m FY19E Ebitda forecast at this stage but we can see the risks to the downside. This time last year London saw the impact from terrorism and management was expecting a year or so to recover. This appears to have been an accurate prediction. Management expects to update on the growth plans for Midway at the prelims, which could imply a further slowdown in the roll-out or, perhaps equally likely, success with new formats. It is expecting ten to 12 openings in 2019 as a result of delays in 2018. Management believes Legoland New York (park number nine) is on track to open in 2020 and park number ten will open perhaps two years behind that. Seemingly interminable discussions about financing a park in Korea continue and progress is being made in relation to parks in China. In relation to cost growth, management highlighted National Minimum Wage, Apprenticeship Levy and business rates (which alone added circa 1% to costs). In addition, almost full employment and reduced immigration in key markets is adding to the cost base and this is an upside risk for FY19, which could see cost growth rise above ‘2% to 3%’ in FY19, before the productivity agenda offsets this from the end in 2019. However, management will not risk customer satisfaction and flagged a willingness to see margins come under pressure in FY19 (a ‘pinch point’) if necessary before seeing relief coming through from the productivity agenda in terms of technology, structure and back office systems. Looking forward, management noted Halloween was the single biggest week of the year and highlighted Legoland had a solid pipeline for growth. Management expects to see like-for-like growth accelerate in FY19 based on current trading trends.”
Airship launches gift card and experience platform aimed at operators: CRM agency Airship has launched Toggle, a gift card and experience platform with the aim to take gift cards “beyond the big guns” and make them accessible for pubs, bars, restaurants and hotels. Airship said Toggle would allow businesses to set up their own online shop within minutes and start selling gift cards and experiences. It said Toggle allowed operators to take menu items and package them into experiences for customers to buy, while it integrates with Zonal, Comtrex, Polaris and Orbis, with “other providers lined up”. Airship chief executive Dan Brookman said: “More operators are looking for additional options to generate revenue. Consumers are also looking to share and enjoy experiences together. During the past 12 months we’ve seen a shift from customers buying gift cards to buying experiences. Everyone’s looking for an Instagramable moment.” Airship said it would roll out tools to help customers repurchase and top up and it is offering a 30-day free trial.


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(MURFREESBORO) Once again, Greenhouse Ministries has made it possible for the people of this community to count their many blessings. Area residents were dropping-off frozen turkeys all day Friday (11/18/2022). With a goal of 500 gobblers, it became evident that the goal would be reached when the scoreboard in the driveway showed "430", and there were several hours remaining for people to help others.
Greenhouse Ministries Co-Founder Cliff Sharp said . . .
When the last car in-line dropped off their frozen chunk of love, it became official that the heart's of local residents exceeded the goal by approximately 600 per cent. Over 600 turkeys were given out on Saturday (11/19/2022), and that was with the help of nearly 300 volunteers.
In early January of this year (2022), Greenhouse Ministries officially opened its new 25,000 square foot facility at 307 S. Academy Street. That’s just across from the Spring Street location where the popular Garden Patch Thrift Shop is located, and that's where the frozen turkeys were both "collected" and "distributed".
The Garden Patch is part of Greenhouse Ministries and provides relational ministry through a quality thrift shop experience for everyone.
In addition, 100 per cent of the proceeds go back to the ministry and community when you shop with the Garden Patch. This upscale thrift store is open to everyone from 9:30AM to 5:00PM on Tuesday through Friday, as well as 9:00AM until noon on Saturdays.
For more information about Greenhouse Ministries, visit their website: www.GreenhouseMin.org. Also, join Cliff Sharp on WGNS radio every Wednesday and Friday morning at 7:50AM.

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Image via Activision
It has been over six months since the current Call of Duty title, Modern Warfare 2, was released. The game is a sequel to Modern Warfare 2019, which rebooted the popular Modern Warfare franchise. It turns out CoD developers are looking forward to continuing this reboot.
As per an exclusive report by Insider Gaming, the upcoming Call of Duty game for 2023 is called Modern Warfare 3. Since this information is not officially confirmed yet, you should take it with a grain of salt and wait for Activision to reveal the game, which should happen in a couple of months now.
If this report turns out to be true, which is highly likely considering the news outlet’s past accurate reportings, the upcoming release should be a direct sequel to the current game. The report by Insider Gaming also mentions that the new game will feature the standard Campaign and Multiplayer modes, as well as Zombies. Players may also get to see a new Warzone 2 map that’ll be set in Las Almas.
Related: Best Warzone 2 Ranked Play Loadouts in Season 3
Until now, the development of all the Modern Warfare games was headed by Infinity Ward. This time around, Sledgehammer Games seems to be in charge. Once again, it’s not official but that’s what the rumors say from multiple sources, including Jason Schreier of Bloomberg. Sledgehammer Games has produced games like Advanced Warfare, WW2, and Vanguard for the CoD franchise.
Stay tuned to Pro Game Guides for more Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone 2 content. In the meantime, head to our Where to find Factory Admin Room Key in Koschei Complex DMZ article.


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Lab Celebrates Birthday and Blu-ray8 Dec, 2008 By: Chris Tribbey
Burbank-based Testronic Labs celebrated its 10th anniversary this month with another milestone: it had the pleasure of testing its 1,000th Blu-ray Disc title last week.
“Over the years, we have continually refined and enhanced our processes in order to deliver efficient, effective and reliable results,” said Testronic Labs EVP Seth Hallen. “Our clients benefit directly from this experience in terms of time and cost savings, and we ultimately give them the confidence they need as they bring new products to market.”
The company tests BD Java and BD Live features, in addition to those for DVD and mobile devices.
“The emergence of BD Live blurs the lines among video, online games and Web applications,” Hallen said.


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The government has made consolidated efforts to make the mining sector the engine for national economic growth and a dependable source of foreign currency and employment, the Mines Minister said.
In his opening remarks at the second Mining and Technology Expo, Mines Minister Habtamu Tegegn (Eng.) stated that the sector has the potential to attract huge amounts of foreign currency to propel economic growth.
"Sustaining nation building as well as registering economic growth would be impossible without tapping mine potential," he noted, adding that producing agricultural minerals and soil fertilizer would help Ethiopia to ensure food self-sufficiency.
For exhibitors, such expos are vital tools to showcase the sector's immense economic potential. According to them, establishing market linkage for manufacturers and supporting the sector with professional research would help Ethiopia to get more benefits from its mining potential.
Despite its opportunities, Ethiopia's mining sector is still underdeveloped and has faced several challenges. The exhibitors mentioned in this regard limited raw material supply and shortage of foreign currency as the sector's pressing hurdles.
More than 90 mine manufacturers and producers are taking part at the expo which will be for five days in Addis Ababa. The exhibitors displayed gold, minerals, industry, construction and other types of minerals in the event.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who officially launched the Expo, shared in his social media account that Ethiopia is blessed with abundant mineral resources. "We must make productive use of this wealth and hand it over to the next generation for a better country."
The Premier also mentioned that the Expo will showcase Ethiopia's mining potential and stimulate investment in the sector.


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Mango Frooti – About the Campaign:
- Frooti, a 27 years old Parle Agro sub-brand signed Shah Rukh Khan as it’s Brand Ambassador
- This is it’s (Frooti’s) biggest celebrity endorsement campaign (after it’s association with Siddharth Malhotra)
- Focus of the campaign – ‘King of Bollywood’ endorsing the ‘King of Mango Drinks’
- Frooti’s ‘Social First’ approach stands out
One Day later after Frooti launched it’s campaign……
Slice Aamasutra launched their campaign with Katrina Kiaf #Pheeka pad jayega
Slice Aamasutra – About the Campaign:
- Campaign – Iske saamne sab kuch Pheeka pad jaega
- After showcasing a seductive side, it’s time to witness the playful love triangle
- The twitter campaign highlighted on all things that were hot, but are now #Pheeka
Hits and Misses:
- Frooti emerged as a front runner, dominating Twitter and YouTube numbers
- Frooti managed to engage with Twitter Audience in three phases, keeping in mind the attention span of Twitterazi
- Frooti Tweet Volume was 76%, whereas Slice Twitter Volume was 24%
- Innovation, Celeb Power and Gratifiations worked in Frooti’s favour
- Slice led the race on Facebook, with a higher increase in Fans and engagement ratio.
- Brand Ambassador’s associations on Digital was missing ( especially SRK’s presence wasn’t leveraged)
- Facebook was given a Miss, only being used as a mediator to launch and spread awareness about the Campaign
- Slice did not leverage it’s YouTube Channel, by sharing videos on Facebook directly.
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GroupM Forecast: Digital to capture 95% of growth in 2018 and 99% in 2019


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Panama City, like the country, seems to be in a perpetual state of forward motion.
For five years running it has had 10 percent annual growth and this small country of just over 3.5 million is in the top five best performers among world economies.
From now until 2020 emerging economies like Panama will produce 70 percent of global growth. So there are plenty of opportunities, not just for the corporate giants, but also for European SMEs, whose big challenge is getting into international markets.
That is the objective of the European Commission’s latest Mission for Growth. Led by the bloc’s Enterprise and Industry Commissioner, the visit also took in Argentina and Paraguay.
Some 40 European entrepreneurs made up the delegation, whose primary concern was the fight against offshoring, or companies relocating operations overseas.
“Internationalisation is the solution to offshoring.” said Antonio Tajani, the EU Enterprise and Industry Commissioner. “We mustn’t close factories in Europe. We have to continue working in Europe, but we must also to try to work in other countries with joint ventures, with new European factories in different countries.”
For several years now these Growth Missions have been flying the EU banner in some 20 countries, allowing around 600 entrepreneurs a chance to internationalise their businesses.
One such businessman is Paolo Franchetti, CEO of Studio Franchetti. “It gives an opportunity to small and medium businesses, which wouldn’t otherwise have the potential to internationalise, to make very high level contacts. Very quickly, costs are reduced enormously,” Franchetti said.
“It facilitates initial contacts and identifies potential opportunities for sectors involving small and medium-size businesses,” explained Rafael Escamilla Domínguez, head of European Programmes, IVACE Innovación.
Major European companies have been working in Panama for a long time, many involved in the gargantuan task of widening the Panama Canal. The operation should be finished in 2016, tripling the waterway’s shipping capacity and quadrupling the revenues it generates. For Europe’s SMEs, with their reputation for excellence in high technology, Panama is a golden opportunity.
“If we want to win the battle against unemployment we have to nurture our 24 millon SMEs. Growth is linked to big business, but job creation is driven by SMEs,” said Commissioner Tajani.
Construction is a promising sector for European SMEs. But there are also opportunities in energy, mining, telecommunications, transport, logistics and tourism.
Another plus, Panama is stable and is strategically well located, as Roberto Henríquez, Secretary of the Presidency of Panama, is keen to stress: “Panama has free trade agreements with the US, Canada and Singapore, with Chile, Peru, Taiwan… with so many countries doing business here, Panama, is a real gateway into these markets.”
Panama has long had very privileged trading links with Europe. Today, the EU is the country’s second largest trading partner, just behind the United States. And European companies are the biggest investors there, ahead of American firms.
“Panama will continue to grow more and more. The doors are open to European investors in Panama. Besides, it’s also important for us. We also want to encourage Panamanian in Europe,” said the country’s newly elected vice president, Isabel Saint Malo.
But Europe beware – the competition is tough! China and other countries are also seeking to make the most of Panama’s huge growth potential.


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When the Coronavirus first reared its ugly head many assumed the virus affected seniors and people with underlying issues. Now we know that is not the case,the World Health Organization is reporting that 22 states have seen an increase in cases. 12 states have just set daily records with record high new cases. In the last 24 hours there have been 25,850 new cases and 258 deaths. They also added that Florida is on it’s way tobecoming the next epicenter.
Phase 2 has begun in many states with restaurants, stores and businesses opening but now reports are saying the second wave is already here with cases exploding into July. Doctors are also worried about asymptomatic people passing the virus to older relatives. Social media has already shown us that backyard BBQ’s and summer gatherings have already started and are showing no signs of slowing down.
Watch the video below.


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After a few months of rumors, Sony has revealed the first major revision of its PlayStation 5 console — just ahead of its third birthday and, importantly, the Holiday season.
Once again, the PS5 — which is likely to be nicknamed “Slim” by the fans, matching previous PlayStation consoles — will be available in both a regular and Digital version. Unlike the original console though, you won’t be locked into your choice courtesy of a neat add-on.
The console has undergone a couple of changes since that launch edition in November 2020, but they’ve been confined to internal tweaks — primarily around the heatsink. This update is the first complete form factor change and sees a profound difference in size and weight.
Coming in at 358mm x 216mm (14.1in x 8.5in), the new console is nearly 10% shorter and narrower than before, with the thinner Digital Edition almost 15% slimmer. Weight drops to 3.2kg and 2.6kg (7lb and 4.5lb) respectively, a reduction of 20% and 30% compared to the most recent PS5 units.
Internally the console appears identical to its predecessor except in one vital area: storage. The onboard SSD has increased from its unusual 825GB size — touted as the most efficient for the new 12-channel IO — to a more standard 1TB. At present there’s no mention of any changes to the M.2 expansion slot, which we’d assume still fits in under the now two-piece top cover.
Arguably the most significant change comes to the Digital Edition, which now gains an option to upgrade to a standard model by way of an additional disc drive. This can be purchased separately, and appears to slot into the console directly — likely with a proprietary connector — under a replacement cover, as if it was always there.
While the USA was previously shielded from mid-life price increases, it’s now joined other markets in seeing a price bump — while Europe and the UK remain at their post-increase costs.
The regular PS5 will set you back $499.99 (€549.99/£479.99), with the Digital Edition priced $50 cheaper at $449.99 (€449.99/£389.99). That’s interesting as you’ll need to shell out more than the difference to pick up the optical drive, which is priced at $79.99 (€119.99/£99.99).
If you want your PS5 to stand upright, there’s a new stand which is now sold separately too. That comes in at $29.99 (€29.99/$24.99), with a horizontal stand included with the console’s price.
You won’t need to wait as long to accessorize either, as even though there’s a new four-piece design for the console’s outer shell — with the top two panels now glossy white — the replacement covers will be available early next year.
Curiously, Sony states that the most recently revealed Deep Earth Collection colors — Cobalt Blue, Sterling Silver, and Volcanic Red — along with a matte black item will be available, but doesn’t reference the five colors in the earlier Galaxy Collection. However it does note that additional colors will be released in the future, and that prices start at $54.99 (€54.99/£44.99) — just as they do for the current console.
The new PlayStation 5 will be released in the USA first in November, rolling out to other countries over an as-yet unspecified time frame. It will also replace the original console, so if you want one of the full-size units you should pick one up now before stocks run out.
See more articles on PlayStation 5.


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Let's face it — you're pumped for Stranger Things' final season, even though it means the iconic show is also coming to an end.
Obviously, we're all waiting to find out what surprises the show's creators have in store for Season 5 — and now we have an idea of what not to expect.
In a recent interview with Indiewire, Ross and Matt Duffer — aka the Duffer brothers — revealed that they're trying not to add any new characters to the show as they focus on wrapping up all the loose ends.
Matt told the publication that they're "doing our best" to avoid adding new peeps into the mix. "We're trying not to do that so we can focus on the OG characters, I guess."
Ross also explained that, typically, the purpose of adding new characters to the show's ongoing narrative is to "give [the story] the engine that is needed."
"Whenever we introduce a new character, we want to make sure that they're going to be an integral part of the narrative," he added.
"We've got a great cast of characters here," he added, "and actors, and any moment we're spending with a new character, we're taking time away from one of the other actors."
So, no new characters — but what if some of our faves, uh, bite the big one? Well, anything can happen, but you might recall that the Duffer brothers have spoken out about that, too.
After Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown called out the Duffer Brothers for being "sensitive Sallies" earlier this year when it came to killing off characters, the head honchos addressed her concern.
"Believe us, we've explored all options in the writing room," Matt explained during an appearance on the Happy, Sad, Confused podcast. "We aren't Game of Thrones. This is Hawkins, it's not Westeros."
Either way, we'll find out at some point what's in store for Stranger Things, so stay tuned.
You can read the entire interview with the Duffer brothers here.
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March 2, 2011
Maserati. A name that even sounds like it should be affixed to something fast and fabulous. At the 2011 Geneva auto show, it is. The latest car from the thinking man’s Italian marque is the GranCabrio Sport.
The full name is rather self-explanatory, but what Maserati has done to its handsome open-top, four-seat, grand tourer (designed in the legendary Pininfarina studios) is given it a sharper edge in several ways. For example, the 4.7-liter V8 engine has been subjected to what the company calls a “friction reduction program.” The upshot is a faster response to driver input and even a six-percent drop in fuel consumption. Having 444 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque also adds to the experience. That’s 11 hp more than the normal GT Convertible, plus another 15 lb-ft in the torque department. This helps shave a tenth from the non-Sport version’s zero-to-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint time of 5.3 seconds.
The six-speed automatic transmission in the Sport has also been developed for faster gear shifts. And the active suspension has received a few tweaks for better driving dynamics. Just for good measure, the brake discs have been upgraded to a grooved and drilled dual-cast type. All the better for coming to a stop after hitting a top speed of 177 mph.
With a moniker that involves the word “sport,” it should also look pretty sharp. Hence the blacked-out grille and re-designed side skirts, the latter color-keyed to complement the front aero appendages. The Sport also shows off a new exterior color: Rosso Trionfale, inspired by the red Maserati racecars of the 1950s.
The 2012 Maserati GranCabrio Sport goes on sale in the United States this August. Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but Maserati says there will be a “modest” increase over the current GT Convertible’s base MSRP of $136,300.
COLIN RYAN has driven hundreds of cars thousands of miles while writing for BBC Top Gear magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Los Angeles Times, European Car, Import Tuner and many other publications, websites, TV shows, etc.


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Calling all art lovers! Starting May 30 through June 6, the never-before-seen exhibition Future Sensations by Saint-Gobain is coming to the Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
The futuristic exhibition celebrates the 350th anniversary of manufacturing company Saint-Gobain, which is hosting the innovative outdoor installations.
Originally founded in 1665, the company has developed and created historic and iconic sights such as the Statue of Liberty, the Hall of Mirrors of Versailles and the beautiful glass pyramid at the Louvre.
The exhibition will feature five pavilions with 3-D digital art offering visitors an engaging experience. The light installations will focus on displaying innovation and technological advancements from around the world.
The exhibition will be touring Brazil, France and China, with Philadelphia being the only North American stop on the way.
Admission to the exhibition is free!
Check out the company's website for more information.


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Goldman Sachs predicts Bitcoin could hit $100k
Within the next 5 years
According to Goldman Sachs Group, Bitcoin will reach $100,000 if it continues to take market share from gold as a store of value.
Goldman analysts estimate that Bitcoin’s float-adjusted market capitalization is just under $700 billion. That accounts for a 20% share of the “store of value” market which is comprised of Bitcoin and gold. The value of gold that’s available for investment is estimated at $2.6 trillion.
If Bitcoin’s share of the store of value market ever rises over 50% over the next five years, its price would reach just over $100,000, marking a compound annualized return of around 18%, co-head of global FX and EM strategy, wrote in a note on Tuesday.
"Bitcoin may have applications beyond simply a "store of value" - and digital asset markets are much bigger than Bitcoin - but we think that comparing its market capitalization to gold can help put parameters on plausible outcomes for Bitcoin returns," Pandl wrote.
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Kentuckians traveled in droves during Memorial Day weekend
Just like the rest of the country, many Kentuckians marked the holiday weekend by packing their bags and booking a flight.
It wasn't shoulder to shoulder throughout the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on this Memorial Day, but a lot more travelers were out.
"I'm actually excited to be flying again and ready for the future. Hopefully, we get back to normal soon," Dana Currier said.
With vaccines being readily available and states around the country loosening restrictions. it's no surprise that people wanted to get back into the air.
"We felt pretty comfortable. Most people seem to have the idea of how to wear their mask and not be totally on top of each other," Gabby Doranth said.
Airport officials agree too. According to numbers they provided, more than 29,000 people passed through the airport this holiday period.
That's 79% of the business that it did this same time in 2019, before the pandemic.
While some chose to fly, others hit the road.
According to AAA, 37 million people hit the road this holiday weekend even with gas prices reaching a seven-year high.
The average price for gas in Kentucky is $2.90 a gallon. Across the nation, the average is $3.04. Regardless of in the air or on the highways - for travelers we spoke to say this holiday weekend gives them a sense that normalcy is returning.
"We can plan a flight three months out and know we'll probably be able to make the flight, we'll probably be okay," Lucas Doranth said.
"I have future trips planned. I went to San Antonio last weekend. I'm going to Montana in about three weeks and going to Hawaii in October," Currier said.
With an expected increase in traveling coming this summer, airport officials are asking passengers to get to the airport about an hour and a half to two hours before their flight departs.
Federal law still requires travelers wear a mask at all times in the airport and on the airplane.


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Staff and customers at Specsavers in Stranraer saw pink last week raising more than £400 for Breast Cancer Care.
The store held a Pink Wednesday on 9 October to raise funds for the charity and awareness of its vital work.
Staff donned pink outfits and there was a tasty selection of home baking on sale. Local businesses donated prizes for the raffle, which was drawn on the day.
Prizes on offer were donated by the store as well as Paula’s Beautique, Baxter’s, Nowadays, Autosparks, East by West, Billy Loch Convenience Store, James Erskine Golf, Patricia Anne’s beauticians, Time Out beauticians, Hugh Aitken jewellers, Sun-Kai Chinese restaurant, McCormick’s florists, Alex Jack Butchers, Brushstrokes Homeware, Arkhouse Inn, Stena Line, Stir-It Café and Custom House restaurant.
Store director Elaine Hawthorn said: “It was a fantastic day and we’re delighted with the amount we raised for Breast Cancer Care.
“So many local businesses got involved, and we would like to thank them all for their prize donations, as well as the members of the public who bought raffle tickets and home baking.
‘Breast Cancer Care is a charity that’s close to the heart of many members of staff in the store. Cancer is something that affects just about everyone in some way, and it’s important for us as a store that we help to raise awareness of the work the charity does in our local community.”


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Shopify Inc SHOP shares dropped 4.41% Thursday as investors took profits following the company’s big first-quarter earnings beat.
For the first quarter, Shopify reported adjusted EPS of $2.01 on $988.6 million in revenue. Both numbers beat consensus analyst estimates of 75 cents and $862.7 million, respectively. Revenue was up 110% from a year ago.
Gross merchandise volume more than doubled to $37.3 billion in the quarter.
Shopify's net income got a boost from a $1.3-billion unrealized gain in the company’s 20 million shares of online payments company Affirm Holdings Inc AFRM, which completed its IPO in January.
Despite the big first-quarter numbers, Shopify warned investors that the reopening of the economy this summer coupled with difficult year-over-year pandemic comps could weigh on growth moving forward. Shopify was one of the biggest winners during the pandemic, when many retail stores temporarily closed and shoppers were stuck at home with little else to do other than online shopping.
Difficult Comps Ahead? Bank of America analyst Brad Sills said Thursday that Shopify’s first-quarter numbers were impressive, but Shopify’s growth and margins are “likely peaking.”
“With the most difficult June and September comp quarters coming, and ramping investment cycles in H2, growth and operating margin are likely to decline from here,” Sills wrote.
Morgan Stanley analyst Keith Weiss said Shopify investors have limited visibility heading into a difficult period for the company.
“While management mentioned that the stimulus tailwind dissipated in early April, not much else was offered to help manage the difficult comp coming up next quarter,” Weiss wrote.
Jefferies analyst Samad Samana said Shopify should still be able to generate 50% revenue growth in 2021, even against extremely difficult comps.
“Despite concerns around tough comps and a premium valuation, we continue to believe SHOP's strong fundamentals will drive shares higher over the long run,” Samana wrote.
Shopify's Valuation A Concern: Raymond James analyst Brian Peterson said Shopify’s ability to exceed even the highest Wall Street expectations is impressive.
“That said, with the stock trading at 27x our revised CY22 estimate, we would encourage investors to look for a more attractive entry point,” Peterson wrote.
Wedbush analyst Ygal Arounian said it’s encouraging that Shopify reported GMV acceleration in January and February, even prior to the latest round of stimulus payments.
“Expectations that 1Q21 will be the smallest quarter in the year implies that 2Q21 GMV will grow at least ~30% (off a +119% comp), a phenomenal feat in our view, and a point that should clear up meaningful levels of uncertainty around post-Covid trends for Shopify,” Arounian wrote.
KeyBanc analyst Josh Beck said Shopify has multiple long-term growth levers.
“Most importantly, revenue growth accelerated to 110% vs. mid-90s% in 2H20 as the reopening progresses, supporting our thesis that new merchants and users are likely to provide a structural boost to e-commerce adoption,” Beck wrote.
Shopify Ratings, Price Targets:
- BofA Securities has an Underperform rating and $1,100 target.
- Morgan Stanley has an Equal-Weight rating and raised the price target from $1,300 to $1,400.
- Jefferies has a Buy rating and $1,675 target.
- Raymond James has a Market Perform rating.
- Webush has an Outperform rating and $1,650 target.
- KeyBanc has an Overweight rating and $1,650 target.
Photo courtesy of Shopify.
© 2022 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.


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Telfar Clemens’ namesake genderless brand Telfar has one of the most in-demand luxury handbags in the market. Every time the fashion label drops the new shopping handbag collection, it sells out in minutes leaving fans who were unable to purchase them in time to complain about it on social media.
What makes Telfar bags appealing is their luxury look and feel, which is made of vegan leather and affordable price that ranges from $150-$257. However, the designer’s latest handbag had customers in an uproar due to its price.
can’t lie that telfar circle bag is cute but not paying that price— tay. 🤍 (@taylorrboatt_) March 10, 2022
In February, during New York Fashion Week, Telfar unveiled the Round Circle Bag that retails at $567. What makes this bag different from the beloved shopping bag is that its signature T logo is a part of the bag’s structure versus it being embossed into the shopping bag. It also comes with a detachable strap so that you have a choice of wearing it as a top handle bag or a crossbody bag. But the clear differences in bags didn’t stop fans from expressing disappointment with the price increase.
I have a telfar but imo the pricing was already a little high for the quality of the bag. I love it but I can’t say I’ll be buying another one— Aricole | Infrastructure PM (@Aricole16) February 17, 2022
The Liberian designer stopped by The Breakfast Club on Monday and had this to say about the backlash he received.
“If you consider me a designer, luxury brand— there’s designer bags way more expensive than this and nobody’s saying anything about this,” he said.
“Also two, I think people that two, don’t know about the brand and think that I’m raising the price of the regular shopping bag, which I priced that specifically based on what I was making as a DJ at night. Like $120 bucks was what I got for DJing an hour set and I know I could have afforded that if I did three gigs that night or week.”
Telfar also addressed whether or not there was enough supply for the demand since the bags always sell out. “We do make enough bags, but it’s just increasingly more people that want to get a bag and there’s always more people than the bags that we make. We dropped thousands of bags each time that we dropped a bag.”
Later on in the interview, he praised the customers that have supported his vision. “I’m not a regular fashion brand if anything it’s the community that made this brand what it is, it’s really important to nurture that,” he said. “It’s why we have a TV station now. We talk to people all day long. Not me personally, but someone is talking to someone all day long.”
But while there may be new handbags in the future, the Brooklyn native reiterated that the shopping bag price will stay the same
xoNecole asked our Facebook followers if Black-owned businesses unfairly receive more criticism for raising prices or does this much of a hike warrant push back?
One commenter wrote, “Coach, MK, and others have done the same. I bought an MK bag, in October for half the price they’re selling that same bag for now, just a different color. It’s a spring color, so I understand it costing more, but double?? Nah, I’m good.
Saying that to say this, it doesn’t matter the brand (for me) or the color of the person/people behind the brand, a price hike (gouging), is a price hike. And unless it’s reasonable, I’m not buying it!”
Another, “Why should all of his bags stay the same price? He never went up on the shopping bags those stayed the same. (As he said they would) lmao @ people thinking all of LV and Prada bags are real leather.”
Telfar bag secured 💛🥰— regulation hottie 💕 (@Alexzand3rr) March 14, 2022
One said that Telfar can do as they please, “Well somebody will pay for it. They have a right to increase their prices. These bags are in high demand.”
But some people still think that the price jump is too much. “Why such a big price jump? Maybe the people that really supported them can only afford around $300…now they moved it up to $600. That seems excessive.”
How do you feel about the price increase?
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images


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Travel agents registered with Porter Airlines or Porter Escapes have the chance to win one of three grand prize trips for two or one of four weekly prizes of 25,000 VIPorter points in celebration of Porter’s 10th birthday on Oct. 23.
“Ten years of service is a big milestone for us. We... more ›
DeNureTours has launched its 2017 brochure, complete with new logo and a new focus for the company.
Not only does the publication feature new tours and destinations, but it also signifies an evolution for DeNureTours – which officials say is no longer satisfied with simply offering travel... more ›
Air Canada has announced the addition of six new destinations to its international network, including year-round Boeing 787-9 service between Toronto and Mumbai and between Vancouver and Taipei.
The new services will launch for summer 2017, with the Montreal-Algiers and the Vancouver-Taipei... more ›
UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai has called for increased co-operation between tourism source markets and destinations that have been affected by crises.
Addressing the 20th Summit of the Federal Association of the German Tourism Industry (BTW) on Monday in Berlin on the topic of “Safe,... more ›
British Airways has launched some special fares for those looking to travel in style to the UK this fall and winter.
Select business class tickets are available for purchase through Oct. 1 from any of British Airways’ Canadian gateways – Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, and... more ›
New Rides, Shows and Events Coming to Parks
SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. has unveiled an extensive lineup of new attractions, shows and events for 2017 – part of an approximate US$175 million in capital spending and one of the largest new attraction years in the company's 50-year history.
The announcement includes major new ride... more ›
Best Western Hotels & Resorts has introduced SureStay Hotels – “a revolutionary new 'white label' franchise model in the hotel industry.”
SureStay will operate as a separate subsidiary while plugging hotel owners into the company’s infrastructure and distribution channels.
With... more ›
G Adventures Unveils Travel Better And More On WTD
In his welcome to the crowd of travel trade types and others who packed Toronto's funky District 28 last night (Sept. 27) to mark World Tourism Day (WTD), G Adventures founder, Bruce Poon Tip observed that, “We're here to celebrate tourism [because it] has the power to change the... more ›
The German National Tourist Office and partners Lufthansa and the Chelsea Hotel hosted a trade gathering last night to celebrate Oktoberfest and talk all things Germany.
“I'm a serious person and I have some serious news to tell you about Germany,” laughed GNTO's Director, Marketing... more ›
It was all about Meliá Hotels International last night (Sept. 27) as a group of the Spanish hotel chain's international team continued a five-city cross-Canada road show with a stop in Toronto, hosting travel agents with a cocktail reception, trade show and dinner at the Park Hyatt... more ›


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In the battle to make the world’s fastest sport utility vehicle, score another win for Bentley.
The British automaker says its new all-wheel-drive Bentayga Speed SUV can reach a top speed of 190 miles per hour, which just barely edges out the Lamborghini Urus, at 189.5 MPH, to claim the title of “the world’s fastest production SUV,” Bentley said in a press release on Thursday.
Each of the luxury SUVs has a starting price of around $200,000.
Technically, Bentley is actually reclaiming its crown as the manufacturer of the fastest SUV on the market. The Lamborghini Urus, first released by the Italian automaker in 2018, took the title from an earlier iteration of the Bentayga SUV that tops out at 187 MPH, according to Jalopnik. (The world’s fastest non-SUV cars in production can top speeds of 250 MPH)
But, Bentley added some additional power to the new and aptly-named Bentayga Speed, which the company touts as having 626 brake horsepower (versus 600 for the regular Bentayga). Both Bentayga SUVs sport a 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine.
Of course, Jalopnik points out that the Bentayga Speed only beats the Lamborghini Urus in terms of its top speed, whereas the Italian SUV would still beat the Bentley in a short race. The Lamborghini Urus is capable of going 0-to-60 MPH in 3.6 seconds, whereas the Bentayga Speed takes 3.9 seconds.
Lamborghini Urus SUV 2018


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Aldi's Special Buys are the thing of legend - and this week a brand-new product is going viral among loyal customers.
The supermarket giant is a go-to for Brummies, having opened its first UK store right here in Birmingham back in the early nineties.
The supermarket retailer is a budget favourite, with wallet-friendly prices, legendary Special Buys, and easy to navigate stores.
Every week, the supermarket reveals its latest Special Buys, which are sold for a limited time only.
And this week's product has gone viral, costing just £3.99 and sending customers into a frenzy.
Customers are all delighted with the look of it, and have taken to social media to have their say.
Aldi says once the products are gone, they are gone. So you will have to move quick folks.
The "must buy" is the Vitamin C Hot Cloth Cleanser, available for as little as £7.98 in a two-pack.
Reviews on social media are gushing, with one branding it "fabulous."
A second wrote: "This is a great cleanser."
A third chipped in with: "Leaves your skin feeling lovely and moisturised."
"I love this product its such good quality," added a fourth, while a fifth branded it "game changing".
Aldi continues to open more and more stores across Birmingham and throughout the wider Midlands.
Its branches are found everywhere from Brum to the Black Country, with outlets in Staffordshire, the Black Country, Worcestershire and beyond.
To find your nearest, and for details of the Special Buys, check the Aldi website.


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Although the study cannot be directly compared with effects in humans, it appears to counter the results of a controversial meta-analysis published last year that suggested a higher risk of death for people that took vitamin E supplements.
In the new research, scientists used 300 mice bred to age rapidly that normally live for an average 61 weeks. Aged 28 weeks, half of the animals were given daily supplements of vitamin E, equivalent to a dosage of about 1200-2000mg per day in humans.
Although this amount is much higher than the RDA, it has been used without adverse effects in studies on Alzheimer's disease patients.
The mice given vitamin E supplements in the study lived an average of 85 weeks without any negative side effects being observed. The maximal lifespan increased 17 per cent to 136 weeks.
Further, the team from the University of Cadiz in Spain and the University of Buenos Aires in Argentina found that vitamin E supplements appeared to improve the ability of mice to perform in neuromuscular tests, suggesting that the vitamin also improved quality of life as well as longevity.
The vitamin E group was better than the others at crossing a 50 centimetre-high wire tightrope and negotiating a T-shaped maze. As they aged, the differences were even greater, with the mice given regular vitamin E performing up to 45 per cent better at tests.
Writing in the 14 July online issue of the American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology, the researchers said the findings supported the free radical theory of ageing put forward by Gerschman and Harman in the 1950s.
For example, this theory was supported by the fact that the mice given vitamin E had lower levels of free radical mediated reactions and oxidative damage in their mitochondria, the energy source of all cells.
Normally in ageing there is an increase in products of oxidation.
The vitamin E supplements were also "able to prevent the decrease in the activities of brain enzymes that are mitochondrial markers of ageing" by substantial levels, said Alberto Boveris, professor at the University of Buenos Aires.
The researchers write that the "mitochondrial content of lipid protein oxidation products, an indication of free-radical mediated reactions and oxidative damage, was increased in the brain and liver of ageing mice, and the effect was partially [and significantly] prevented by vitamin E."
This was shown by measuring the protein carbonyl content of brain mitochondria, which increased 33 per cent to 69 per cent at 52 and 76 weeks from 28 weeks, and this increase was markedly prevented (76 per cent and 65 per cent) by vitamin E supplementation measured at the two age points.
The researchers say that further studies are needed to find the threshold for vitamin E doses that provide beneficial effects in the neurological function in ageing mammals.
Boveris and his colleagues are about to begin a new study in mice to see if they can repeat their results with smaller doses of vitamin E.


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Anna and Jonathan F. come to St. Vincent de Paul’s Family Evening Meal with their mother and siblings each night. Between work and school
schedules, dinner is the only time that their family sits down for a meal together to catch up and talk. When they arrive, they are seated together at one table and served by loving volunteers. In addition to hot meals, there is always a salad bar with fresh fruits and vegetables.
“This is a place where we can come enjoy a good dinner,” says Anna. “It really helps a lot because we don’t have enough to eat at home.”
St. Vincent de Paul’s central kitchen prepares more than 3,000 meals every morning for our five dining rooms across the valley.
Help us provide meals for hungry families this holiday season!
Thanks to many of our partners, there are various food drives this year across the state.
KNIX Million Can Crusade: Now – Nov. 23
Join Ben and Matt’s 2011 Million Can Crusade! The event kicked off with a special operation to rescue Barrel Boy, who was suspended over 100 feet in midair and lowered as donations came in. Did we succeed? Or is he still up there? Check out photos here. Support SVdP and donate at Safeway stores, Desert Schools Credit Unions or online.
Bickley and MJ Turkey Drive: Now – Dec. 26
Bickley and MJ’s Annual Turkey Drive is back presented by TruWest Credit Union! Go to one of the sponsoring Walmart stores to donate canned goods and turkeys.
Come see the guys from 2pm-6pm at these Walmart locations on these days to participate:
- Monday, November 21 at 18551 N. 83rd Ave in Glendale
- Tuesday, November 22 at 1380 W. Elliot Rd. in Tempe
- Wednesday, November 23 at 15355 N Northsight Blvd in Scottsdale
Fry’s Annual Holiday Food Drive: Now – Dec. 31
Make donations to SVdP and other food banks at check out. Just a few dollars will help provide hot meals and nonperishable foods to struggling families.
12 News and Bashas’ Turkey Tuesday: Nov. 22
Arizona’s largest one-day turkey drive will be Tuesday, Nov. 22 this year. In addition to 12 news and Bashas’, Mix 96.9’s Ron Price and Bryan Allen will joining the challenge this year. Whose side will you be on? Ron Price and Bruce Cooper at Bashas’ in the east valley, or Bryan Allen and Jimmy Q at Food City in the west valley? Donate at any Bashas’ or Food City store on Turkey Tuesday to help your favorite TV-Radio duo win!
Life Time Fitness Turkey Day 5K: Nov. 24
Take over downtown with the Life Time Fitness Turkey Day 5K! Bring a can of food to support SVdP. Register for the event here.
Kraft and Safeway’s Huddle to Fight Hunger: Nov. 16 – Dec. 24
Purchase prepackaged food bags for hungry families at Safeway! Each bag includes pantry staples canned fruits, vegetables, pasta and macaroni and cheese.


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January 16, 2020
Korean boyband BTS has partnered with Starbucks Korea to launch a new menu and new merchandise to promote their new album Map of the Soul: Persona. The initiative will also aid disadvantaged youth in South Korea.
The “Be the Brightest Stars” campaign will feature a limited-edition collection of food, drinks and merchandise available in Starbucks shops in South Korea. A portion of proceeds from the sale from the collaboration will help support career and educational development programs for young people leaving children’s homes to start their adult lives through the Beautiful Foundation’s Opportunity Youth Independence Project.
“We’re extremely excited to collaborate with global artists like BTS to create a bright future for the youth of South Korea,” says David Song, chief executive officer, Starbucks Korea. “I hope that our customers will be inspired by BTS and the Beautiful Foundation and help us draw more attention to these essential programs for young people in Korea, who are truly shining stars.”
During the campaign period, BTS’ song “Make it Right” from their Map of the Soul: Persona album will be played at Starbucks locations across South Korea.
Limited-edition merchandise features starry patterns including mugs and glassware designed with real gold, key chains and pouches for tablets and laptops. The purple starry pattern will be featured on Starbucks bags and cup sleeves available in limited quantities for customers purchasing items that support the initiative.
New foods included in the campaign include the blooming purple vin chaud, a beverage flavored with elderflower, grape juice and fruit, available both hot and iced. Featured food includes the blueberry star macaroon, purple berry cheesecake and the purple star cupcake.
The “Be the Brightest Stars” campaign will run from Jan. 21 through Feb. 6.
License Global is the leading news source for the brand licensing industry, delivering award-winning editorial content including news, trends, analysis, and special reports about the global consumer product and retail marketplace.
Through its print edition, website, daily e-newsletter and event publications, License Global reaches more than 150,000 executives and professionals in all major markets. The magazine also serves as the official publication for the sector’s trade events, which include Licensing Expo, Brand Licensing Europe, Licensing Expo Japan, Licensing Expo Shanghai and the Licensing Leadership Summit.
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EghtesadOnline: More than 11.99 million tons of non-oil goods were exported from Shahid Rajaee Port in the southern Hormozgan Province during the first four months of the current Iranian year (March 21-July 22), registering a 2.6% increase compared with the similar period of last year.
According to director general of Hormozgan Province Ports and Maritime Organization, Allah-Morad Afifipour, exports of oil products during the same period amounted to over 2.71 million tons, showing a 2.5% rise year-on-year, the news portal of the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development reported.
More than 26.27 million tons of oil and non-oil goods were loaded and unloaded in Shahid Rajaee Port over the period.
Over the four-month period, 1,328 vessels docked at the port to register a 2.4% increase YOY, of which 1,122 weighed more than 1,000 tons, according to Financial Tribune.
Located 23 kilometers west of the port city of Bandar Abbas, the capital of Hormozgan Province, Shahid Rajaee Port is Iran’s biggest container port at the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz. Over half of Iran’s commercial trading is carried out at Shahid Rajaee. The port complex also accounts for over 85% of all container throughput in the country.


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April 22 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks rose on Tuesday, with both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq on track for a sixth straight day of gains as a number of bellwether companies reported strong results. The Dow Jones industrial average was up 0.58 percent at 16,544.04, the S&P 500 was up 0.55 percent at 1,882.25 and the Nasdaq Composite was up 1.03 percent at 4,163.957.
** TIME WARNER CABLE, $140.14, +2.59 pct
** COMCAST CORP, $51.44, +3.13 pct
Comcast posted higher first-quarter revenue and net income on Tuesday as the largest U.S. cable operator gained video subscribers for the second quarter in a row.
There was “no internal timeline” for the Time Warner Cable divestiture, and the company could pursue a number of structures for divestitures in order to maximize tax efficiency, Comcast Chief Finacial Officer Michael Angelakis said on a conference call with analysts.
** LAS VEGAS SANDS CORP, $79.74, +5.30 pct
** MGM RESORTS INTERNATIONAL,$25, +4.69 pct
** WYNN RESORTS LTD, $215.77, +5.54 pct
** CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT CORP, $18.53, +2.49 pct
Shares of the casino operators were up on Tuesday as Macau gambling revenue rebounded during the third week of April from a slowdown during the first two weeks, Chad Beynon from Macquarie Research told Reuters.
For the week ending April 21, average daily run rate in Macau improved to MOP 1.15 billion, up 15 percent from last week, Wells Fargo wrote in a note.
“Based on trends through April 21, we estimate April Macau gaming revenue growth continues to trend between 7-10 percent vs our prior forecast of 5-10 percent,” Wells Fargo analyst Cameron McKnight said.
** FIREEYE INC, $51.75, +7.50 pct
The network security company filed for a secondary offering of 13.3 million shares at a proposed maximum price of $47.65 each. FireEye said it will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of the shares being offered by its selling stockholder. (r.reuters.com/zut68v)
** ASTEC INDUSTRIES INC, $40.38, -7.02 pct
The specialized equipment maker reported lower-than-expected first-quarter results, hurt by a 9.6 percent fall in revenue from its larger road building and related equipment business.
** ZIONS BANCORP, $29.34, -2.94 pct
The lender reported earnings per share of 41 cents, missing analysts’ average estimate of 42 cents, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S. Net interest income dropped 3.6 percent to $416.5 million from the quarter ended Dec. 31.
Brokerage Jefferies & Co cut the bank’s price target to $27 from $29, citing weak loan growth.
** REVANCE THERAPEUTICS INC, $32.78, +14.54 pct
The company said on Monday an experimental long-lasting form of botulinum toxin - the same compound used in Allergan Inc’s Botox - met the main goal of reducing wrinkles in patients in an early stage trial.
Cowen & Co analysts estimated the product could eventually generate $1 billion in sales.
** ALLERGAN INC, $163.85, +15.39 pct
** VALEANT PHARMA, $132.36, +5.04 pct
Canada’s Valeant Pharmaceuticals said it offered to buy Botox maker Allergan to boost its skin and eye-care portfolio. Valeant said it had offered to pay $48.30 per share in cash and 0.83 of its common share for each Allergan share.
** AROTECH CORP, $3.79, -15.02 pct
The defense and security products company would not benefit from a lithium-ion battery factory being set up by Tesla Motors Inc as it did not make electric batteries for cars, according to a Seeking Alpha article.
The company was not planning to enter the electric vehicle market, the article said quoting Arotech Chief Executive Robert Ehrlich. (r.reuters.com/pyv68v)
** CADENCE DESIGN SYSTEMS INC, $14.26, +1.87 pct
The company, which makes software for designing integrated circuits and electronics systems, forecast second-quarter profit of 19-21 cents per share, below analysts’ estimates of 23 cents.
Cadence forecast full-year profit of $0.92-$1.02 per share on revenue of $1.55-$1.59 billion, in-line with expectations of a profit of $0.97 per share on revenue of $1.57 billion.
The company also agreed to acquire Jasper Design Automation Inc, a maker of software used to verify chip designs, for $170 million.
** HELIX ENERGY SOLUTIONS GROUP INC, $23.7, +4.36 pct
The offshore energy company reported a better-than-expected first-quarter profit on Monday due to a rise in revenue at the company’s well intervention business - the company’s biggest. Helix also gained from the sale of a shore-based pipe laying facility for offshore oil and gas production.
** AMBAC FINANCIAL GROUP INC, $31.7, +11.27 pct
The bond insurer said a court-appointed official had filed an amendment to its rehabilitation plan which would see an increase in the cash amount percentage to policy holders under the segregated account. Ambac had reached a settlement with its Wisconsin regulator in 2011 as part of its bankruptcy reorganization plan, which had averted a liquidation for the company.
Under the restructuring agreement, many of Ambac Assurance's risky mortgage obligations were moved into a segregated account. (link.reuters.com/kew68v)
** BITAUTO HOLDINGS LTD, $38.6, +9.01 pct
The company said it entered into a joint venture agreement with used car electronic auction service provider Youxin Internet (Beijing) Information and auto dealership group Pangda Automobile Trade. Bitauto said the JV will bring more used car listings to its website taoche.com and expand its inventory of available-for-sale used cars.
** QEP RESOURCES INC, $31.51, -2.51 pct
Analysts at Barclays Capital downgraded the oil producer to “equal weight” from “overweight,” citing negative revisions in production forecast by QEP earlier this year. They also believe the oil producer’s assets offer limited high-return drilling opportunities. They cut the price target on the company’s stock to $31 from $36.
** PLX TECHNOLOGY INC, $6.17, +6.20 pct
The chipmaker, whose products are used in digital TVs and video surveillance equipment, on Monday reported a better-than-expected first-quarter adjusted profit due to lower costs, prompting brokerage Roth Capital Partners to raise its price target to $8 from $7 on the company’s stock.
** ROGERS COMMUNICATIONS INC, $38.72, -3.68 pct
The Canadian cable, telecommunications and media company reported a 13 percent drop in its first-quarter profit late on Monday, as a move to more customer-friendly pricing led to a slip in earnings at its major wireless phone arm.
** CUSTOMERS BANCORP INC, $22.484, -3.42 pct
The lender’s earnings for the quarter ended March 31 dropped to 32 cents per share from 38 cents as it set aside $4.4 million to cover bad loans, compared to a reversal of $100,000 set aside for loan losses a year earlier. The company reported net interest income of $29.5 million, missing analysts’ average estimate of $32.5 million, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S.
Brokerage Sandler O’Neill & Partners cut the bank’s rating to “hold” from “buy,” saying first-quarter earnings were volatile.
** CENTENE CORP, $64.54, +12.65 pct
The health insurer reported a quarterly profit and revenue well above Wall Street estimates, and raised its 2014 outlook, on Tuesday.
** HOME DEPOT INC, $80.06, +2.69 pct
BMO Capital Markets upgraded its rating on the world’s largest home improvement chain’s stock to “outperform” from “market perform,” saying it believes Home Depot can deliver mid-teens earnings per share growth, helped by “transformational” changes in the company’s supply chain, store operations and merchandising.
** RUCKUS WIRELESS INC, $10.89, +5.01 pct
Brokerage Piper Jaffray & Co assumed coverage on the WiFi products maker’s stock with an “overweight” rating and a target price of $14, saying the company’s shares were trading below their growth prospects.
“Ruckus has a solid track record of topline revenue growth, technology leadership, good competitive win rate and we believe the company will continue to report solid results well into the future,” Piper Jaffray analyst Troy Jensen wrote in a note to clients.
** CELANESE CORP, $61.08, +5.09 pct
The chemical manufacturer reported a better-than-expected first-quarter profit on Monday due to a rise in revenue from the company’s advanced engineered materials business and consumer specialties business.
** FIRSTMERIT CORP INC, $19.1, -4.76 pct
The lender reported earnings per share of 31 cents per share for the quarter ended March 31, missing analysts’ average estimate of 36 cents, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S. Cash set aside to cover bad loans rose 46 percent to $14.5 million over the prior year.
** AK STEEL HOLDING CORP, $6.65, -0.89 pct
The U.S. steelmaker reported a wider-than-expected quarterly loss partly hurt by higher operating costs and lower shipments.
** ARCH COAL INC, $4.59, -7.65 pct
The U.S. coal miner said it expects to ship fewer tons of steel-making metallurgical coal this year as prices and demand remain weak, but signaled recovering demand for thermal coal, used in power generation.
** NETFLIX INC, $369.918, +6.15 pct
The video streaming service’s planned price hikes will allow it to spend more to produce more original content that will help it attract more customers globally, analysts said, as many of them raised their price targets on the stock.
While Cantor Fitzgerald upgraded the stock to “buy,” several other brokerages raised their price targets after Netflix posted better-than-expected first-quarter profit.
** GW PHARMACEUTICALS PLC, $61.8999, +34.45 pct
Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on the biopharmaceutical company with an “overweight” rating, citing the potential of its epilepsy program. The brokerage said it expects about 800 million pounds peak worldwide sales for the company’s experimental epilepsy drug Epidiolex by 2024. It set a price target of $103 on the GW Pharma stock.
** MEDIDATA SOLUTIONS INC, $37.935, -28.00 pct
The provider of cloud-based services for clinical research companies reported a quarterly adjusted profit that was lower than analysts’ estimates.
** FACEBOOK INC, $62.98, +2.84 pct
Credit Suisse upgraded the social media company’s stock to “outperform” from “neutral” and raised its price target to $87 from $6. The brokerage said it expects new products to drive faster growth in revenue per user.
** LEXMARK INTERNATIONAL INC, $41.7, -10.84 pct
The printer maker reported first-quarter adjusted earnings above analysts’ average estimate, helped by higher revenue from its managed print services and software businesses.
** HARLEY-DAVIDSON INC, $72.64, +7.55 pct
The motorcycle maker posted a stronger-than-expected quarterly profit on Tuesday, lifted by strong sales growth outside its core North American market.
** MGIC INVESTMENT CORP, $8.96, +7.56 pct
Mortgage insurer MGIC posted a better-than-expected quarterly profit as fewer homeowners defaulted on their payments in an improving U.S. housing market.
** KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS NV, $32.63, -5.67 pct
Philips warned on Tuesday it would struggle to post a rise in operating profit for 2014 after slowing demand in China and Russia, combined with the impact of a strong euro, wiped out its first-quarter sales growth.
** NOVARTIS AG, $86.405, +1.11 pct
** GLAXOSMITHKLINE PLC, $55.31, +4.12 pct
** ELI LILLY AND CO, $60.495, -0.60 pct
Novartis and GlaxoSmithKline traded more than $20 billion worth of assets on Tuesday, aiming to bolster their best businesses and exit weaker ones as the drugs industry reshapes to cope with healthcare spending cuts and generic competition.
Eli Lilly said it will buy the Novartis’ animal health business for $5.4 billion in cash to strengthen and diversify its Elanco unit.
** ALLISON TRANSMISSION HOLDINGS INC, $30.15, -3.12 pct
The company, which makes fully automatic transmissions for medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles, said its shareholders Carlyle Group and Onex Corp sold 25 million shares they owned in the company.
Carlyle and Onex are the largest shareholders in Allison Transmission.
** RENT-A-CENTER INC, $29.505, +14.49 pct
The rent-to-own home furniture retailer forecast full-year earnings above analysts’ estimates after reporting a better-than-expected quarterly profit, due to higher revenues from Mexico and its Acceptance Now membership program.
** PERRIGO CO PLC, $151.88, +4.64 pct
Jefferies initiated coverage of the company’s stock with a “buy” rating, based on its dominant share of the over-the-counter medicine market, expansive pipeline, and “sustainable” growth strategy.
** BEBE STORES INC, $5.91, -8.23 pct
The women’s apparel retailer warned of a bigger-than-expected quarterly loss as extremely cold weather in parts of the United States cut sales.
** CANADIAN SOLAR INC, $29.45, +8.75 pct
The solar company said it won a supply agreement to provide 43 mega watt of photovoltaic modules to the second-largest solar power plant project in Japan. Delivery of the modules is expected to start from May 2014. (Compiled by Rohit T.K. in Bangalore; Editing by Joyjeet Das)


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Wearables are a major category at CES this year and while most of the available products have focused on humans, one company, i4C Innovations, is aiming its newest tracking device at a different consumer group -- dogs. Voyce is a health and activity tracking collar designed to be worn by dogs.
Voyce uses a 3-axis accelerometer to track a dog's active and resting periods and a built-in radio frequency technology measures both heart and respiratory rates.
Introducing breakthrough wearable technology that bridges the communication gap between dogs, their owners, and the people who love them. Our three-part approach of Discover, Learn, and Share gives unprecedented insight into your dog's health and wellbeing, information and tools for you and your dog to grow together, and ways to share with your veterinarian and social networks.
The data gathered by Voyce is uploaded to and analyzed by an accompanying mobile app, which gives an detailed overview of pet health that can be shared on social networks and with veterinarians. The app tracks trends over time, allowing owners to keep an eye on vital signs and other health indicators to detect potential problems early on.
According to the company, Voyce data can be a valuable tool for pet owners. For example, the activity tracking portion of the band can let owners know if there are early warning signs of arthritis based on lower levels of movement, while the heart rate monitor can notify owners of conditions like chronic pain. The device also tracks the calories that a dog burns each day, allowing for adjustments in feeding.
Voyce accommodates neck sizes ranging from 12 to 32 inches and weighs less than six ounces. It has an estimated battery life of one week and it requires Internet access and Wi-Fi to sync with a mobile device or computer.
Voyce is expected to be released in the summer of 2014 for approximately $300.


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We made an honest stab at choosing a Person of the Year. We always start by calling the award Person of the Year, because I’m a woman and so are four others on the staff. No one wants to hurt our collective girlie feelings by intimating from the get-go that there couldn’t possibly be a single woman who had a life-changing impact on the car industry this past year. Never mind that there wasn’t one. Maybe if Deborah Meyer, when she jumped ship from Toyota, had joined Chrysler as chairman instead of marketing chief, killed five really dumb car lines immediately, then fired the head of design and hired Walter de’Silva away from VW, she would have had a real shot at it.
Didn’t happen. Then again, Bob Nardelli – the non-car guy whom the supersecret, private-equity moneybags in New York chose to run Chrysler – didn’t step up to that ugly but necessary task, either. No cigar, Bob, but between you and Chrysler co-president Jim Press – whose defection from Toyota was even more shocking than your appointment – there’s huge potential for the 2009 Chrysler trophy case if you make the tough calls and pull off a save.
To be fair, running a Detroit-based car company has required nothing but an endless series of tough calls for the past couple of years. We can’t help but think that our eventual hero is going to emerge from Detroit’s smoking wreckage of overpaid workers, fat bureaucracies, glut of factories, bloat of sport-utes, and boring cars that no one wanted. Never mind Man of the Year – fixing everything that’s wrong in Detroit should be worthy of sainthood.
So far, Rick Wagoner is in the lead, mostly because he’s been working the fix at General Motors long enough to have brought mighty GM back from the edge of the cliff while Ford and Chrysler were still barreling straight for the abyss. Two years ago, GM lost more than $10 billion. Despite relentless attention from the national media (GM has been to the business press what Britney Spears is to the gossip rags), Wagoner and vice chairman Bob Lutz (our Man of the Year in 1993, when he helped preside over the golden age of Chrysler) have standardized manufacturing around the world; rassled a contract with the UAW that could save billions annually; emerged from the shadows with class-leading and award-winning clean-energy technologies; and, most important, produced a string of cars that are drawing people back to showrooms. Between them, Wagoner and Lutz have delicately defused the ticking bomb.
They can hardly afford to rest on their laurels, though, due to potential buzz killers like a liver-quivering $39 billion loss in the third quarter of 2007 (blamed on unused tax credits and a loss at its former finance unit, GMAC), pending $4-a-gallon gas, and the nationwide housing market collapse.
Bill Ford, of Ford, could have won our Man of the Year award for finally throwing in the towel and bringing in the cavalry in the person of Boeing turnaround hero Alan Mulally. If only Billy hadn’t waited so long that his own family had grown mutinous as the Ford Motor Company’s stock price slid into single digits. So, how about Mulally? He jumped into the soup sixteen months ago with his curious combination of Kansas cornpone smiley face (was it because of the $39.1 million he made for the four months he worked in 2006?); a penchant for speaking sensibly to the press; and what we hear is steely, ball-cutting nerve in private. He managed to transform Ford’s executive team (most of whom he magnanimously spared the ax) from a group that was best described as being “the backstabbing Borgias meet the kneecapping Medicis” into some semblance of team players.
Mulally also accelerated massive job cuts; sold Aston Martin and put Jaguar and Land Rover on the block; wrapped loving arms around the entire dealer body; jumped successfully on the UAW give-back freight train; took a mighty whack at overcapacity; and mortgaged the entire company to finance his brand-new Way Way Forward plan.
Mulally is ahead of his own schedule, and J. D. Power and Consumer Reports love the cars. But sales are still slow in North America. The first three quarters of 2007 closed with losses, but a $1 billion third-quarter loss in Ford’s North American auto unit was a whole billion and a bunch of millions better than last year’s $2.1 billion loss for that quarter. Yes, the cars are better, but Ford needs more hot metal sooner, and we’re not seeing enough of that in our crystal ball.
Back to Chrysler, the furthest behind when Cerberus Capital Management swooped in. We were all swaggering about how cool it was that Cerberus’s star consultant, Wolfgang Bernhard, would now run Chrysler – we figured the company was all but saved. Oops. No Wolfie. Cerberus head Steve Feinberg instead brought in Nardelli, an outside business guy so tough, Gentleman Jim Press was needed to counter Nardelli’s bad-guy rep. It’s been mere months, but the new Chrysler has already nailed the UAW, which caved to reality after a brief hissy fit of a strike. Nardelli and team are now addressing overcapacity, too many employees, and expansion in Asia.
Now, about those cars no one wants . . .
Stay tuned. There will be a 2009 Man of the Year when the dust clears. With any luck, he will be a hometown hero.


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CBD oil may soon disappear from store shelves in the state of Ohio. On August 25, 2018, the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy issued a regulatory memo stating that CBD oil, regardless of whether it came from cannabis or hemp, can only be sold through state-licensed medical cannabis dispensaries. According to the memo, CBD oil of any kind falls under the state’s definition of cannabis, as outlined by the state’s medical cannabis laws. It is unclear how the board’s ruling will affect the sale of CBD-based drugs such as the recently FDA-approved Epidiolex, which is expected to be reclassified as a Schedule IV drug by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration this September.
To read more, please visit the original post at Cleveland.com.


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- The Google Camera 7.4 update has landed on the Play Store.
- It brings a quick-access video resolution toggle, as well as 8x zoom for videos on the Pixel 4
The Google Camera app has made some impressive strides over the years, bringing several major features to the table. Now the Google Camera 7.4 update has reportedly been released on the Play Store, and it packs a few neat (albeit not game-changing) additions.
The new update (184.108.40.2063422365), spotted by 9to5Google, brings an easier way to switch to 4K video resolution on Pixel phones. Previously, users had to dive into the camera settings menu and select the desired resolution here. But now, you can simply hit the arrow in the viewfinder and the 4K video resolution toggle will be available in the resulting pop-up window.
It’s worth noting that the legacy option to change frames per second is still present in this window, but disappears when you choose 4K.
This isn’t the only addition to Google Camera 7.4, as the update also lets you zoom in up to 8x while recording video on the Pixel 4 (up from 5x). It’s believed that this change is helped by the fact that the Pixel 4 offers a 2x telephoto camera.
For what it’s worth, I wasn’t able to install this latest version of the app from the Play Store on my Pixel 4. But the update I installed (version 7.3.021.300172532) does indeed offer 8x zoom.
XDA-Developers also dug into the new version’s code and found hints at support for the Pixel 4a and Pixel 5. This is to be expected of course, thanks to numerous Pixel 4a leaks and Google traditionally launching a top-tier Pixel phone in October each year.
More posts about Google
When should you expect to receive the Android 10 update? (Updated June 5)
Renders of Google Android TV streaming device and remote here (Update: Video)
Google accused of tracking Incognito mode data, facing class action lawsuit
The best Google Pixel 4 XL cases you can buy
The best Google Chromebook for your needs: What are your options?
The best Android phones (June 2020)
Third Pixel feature drop lands today, brings improved Adaptive Battery, more