Thanks for the feature Gaya!
My dear readers,
I am excited to tell you that my story on Switzerland is being featured in the May issue of Gaya Magazine! Actually I submitted it quite close to deadline because I was so busy with work so I did not really expect the team at Gaya to choose it.
Gaya is a monthly digital magazine for the cosmopolitan Muslim women around the world. Get your free copy at www.gayamagazine.com. I have been reading the magazine religiously for the past few issues and I love it! Its very informative, up to date and a delight to read! I am sure you will love it too!
You can download the free copy of May issue here.
Meanwhile, thank you to the editor and the editorial team for all the hard work! Seeing my own writings in the online magazine makes me feel rewarded. I am humbled by the opportunity to travel there and to write about it. I hope you will enjoy reading it!
Here are some of the pages of the magazine!
Go download your copy now! I especially like the ‘Inspire’ feature in Gaya too. Its inspirational and may nudge you to see things from a different perspective.
Thank you all!


This is a static archive that indexes videos from BEFORE August 2014, new content is NOT being archived here.
The date is August 2014. Twitch announces (original link) that they will soon remove all past broadcasts from their servers. But a team of rogue archivists saves over 100TB of videos to the Internet Archive. This site serves as an index for that archive (with 29146 videos from 1223 channels).
All video files are hosted on the Internet Archive. You can help keep all this data available forever by making a donation to the Internet Archive.
- Justin.tv (Archive Team page)
- Twitch.tv (Archive Team page)
Contact me with any issues or suggestions: Gonçalo MB (firstname.lastname@example.org).


Apple has revealed new information about the entertainment that will be available when Vision Pro launches on February 2nd.
One of the highlights will be 3D movies. There will be more than 150 3D movies available, including Avatar: The Way of Water, Dune, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, and The Super Mario Bros. Movie, all of which can be watched from a simulated personal theater environment or immersive Environments, including Yosemite, Haleakalā, and Mount Hood. Also, Apple Vision Pro users who already own a movie for which a 3D version becomes available will have access to it at no additional cost. Apple says streamers like Disney+ will offer 3D movies as part of their services, too.
Those same streaming services will also offer other unique experiences. For example:
With Disney+, subscribers can watch thousands of TV shows and films from four iconic environments with vivid details: the Disney+ Theater, inspired by the historic El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood; the Scare Floor from Pixar’s Monsters Inc.; Marvel’s Avengers Tower overlooking downtown Manhattan; and the cockpit of Luke Skywalker’s landspeeder, facing a binary sunset on the planet Tatooine from the Star Wars galaxy.
Apple’s TV app will have Apple Immersive Video, a new 180-degree, 3D 8K format with Spatial Audio. At launch, there will be four titles available at no added cost:
- Alicia Keys: Rehearsal Room offers a rare glimpse into the Grammy winner’s creative process with this intimate rehearsal session featuring renditions of her hits “No One,” “If I Ain’t Got You,” and “You Don’t Know My Name.” Users can also access these performances as a special EP exclusively on Apple Music when it debuts.
Adventure follows pioneering athletes as they take on awe-inspiring challenges in some of the world’s most sensational locations. In the first episode, Highlining, viewers step into thin air with highliner Faith Dickey as she takes on her biggest challenge yet: a daring traverse 3,000 feet above Norway’s breathtaking fjords.
Wild Life takes viewers up close and personal with some of the most charismatic creatures on the planet to uncover what makes them unique, featuring the experts who know them best. The first episode brings viewers into the world’s largest rhinoceros sanctuary where a former police captain has dedicated her life to rescuing, raising, and rewilding these gentle giants.
Prehistoric Planet Immersive: The award-winning Apple Original docuseries from Jon Favreau and the producers of Planet Earth returns with an immersive film that transports viewers into the daily lives of dinosaurs, and follows the struggles and triumphs of these majestic animals amid spectacular scenery. Prehistoric Planet Immersive whisks viewers along a rugged ocean coast where a pterosaur colony settles in for an afternoon nap, which proves to be anything but restful.
Apple is releasing a new free app with the Vision Pro called Encounter Dinosaurs, too:
With Encounter Dinosaurs, a new free app developed by Apple that ships with Vision Pro, users can peer into the Cretaceous, a period more than 66 million years old, where dinosaurs roamed the earth and Mother Nature reigned supreme. Executive produced by Jon Favreau and inspired by his award-winning work with Prehistoric Planet, Encounter Dinosaurs makes it possible for users to interact with giant, three-dimensional reptiles as if they are bursting through their own physical space.
I’m eager to try Apple Immersive Video and see what it’s like to enjoy a 3D movie in one of the Vision Pro’s Environments. Although technologies like 3D TVs were a flop, I expect the immersive nature of the Apple Vision Pro to add more to the experience than ever before. Hopefully, I’ll have a better idea of just how much more the Apple Vision Pro adds to the experience in just over two weeks.


Thirty-seven time Golden Guitar winner Lee Kernaghan announced the release of his fifteenth studio album and released the title track and new music video "Backroad Nation" today. The highly anticipated album Backroad Nation was produced by Grammy nominated producer and songwriter Lindsay Rimes (Kane Brown, Kylie Minogue. LoCash) and will be released Friday, May 10 through ABC Music/UMA.
Lee said, "Backroad Nation is about feeling that good vibration when you get off the beaten track and the country wraps itself around you. I'm so excited to be bringing out this new music"
"A lot of miles and a lot of living has gone into every song. I've travelled from Alice Springs to the Deni Ute Muster, from the mighty Pilbara to backroads QLD and everywhere in between turning those experiences into songs.
The music video for Backroad Nation was filmed at Trilby Station via Louth on the banks of the Darling River in Outback NSW. "It was an epic location, bone dry though, because they hadn't seen any decent rain since 2016. It breaks your heart to see how desperate things can get on the land but the good news is that a couple of days after we finished the shoot, it bucketed down, the dams filled up and the river began to flow".
Coinciding with the release of his new album, Lee has also announced The Backroad Nation Tour which will kick off on May 11 and see him playing 48 concert events, Australia-wide, throughout 2019.
Lee said, "It's awesome getting to play live across Australia and I'll be forever grateful to every person who comes out each night to see the show. They're the reason I sing my songs, that's where the music comes from."
Multi Golden Guitar winners, The Wolfe Brothers, are set to join Lee for the national tour along with CMC Female Artist of the Year Christie Lamb. Tickets for all shows are on sale below.


The worst mistake that people make when they write a press release, is also the most common mistake. It isn’t forgetting to include contact details, or a date, or spelling someone’s name wrong, or including too much jargon — though we regularly see all of those mistakes.
No, the worst mistake that people make in a press release is much simpler, and more devastating.
It is telling people what you want to tell them — and not what they need to know, or what they might be interested in.
Most importantly, this is the mistake that ensures a journalist will delete your press release within seconds, because it doesn’t look relevant or interesting.
This is the kind of press release that might start by announcing…
‘Scientists from Our Institution have made an important discovery. And the discovery was published in today’s edition of This Important Journal. And the research team was led by Dr A. N. Other. And now we’ll give you some background…’
But think about it. If the discovery really is newsworthy, then an effective press release should lead with what the discovery will ‘mean’ for people.
So, a more effective press release might start by announcing:
‘A cheaper, faster test for disease A could be available as early as next year, thanks to new research. The new test should cut waiting times for patients, and save the health service €x million a year.
The improved test took scientists N years to develop in painstaking research at Our Institution. But the long haul was worth it, according to team leader Dr A. N. Other. . .’
Even experienced press officers and organisations regularly make this mistake, yet it’s relatively simple to avoid.
The key is to ask yourself: what does our latest development mean for people? Answer that question, and you’ll have the opening sentence, and the headline, for your press release. It really is that simple.
And if you’d like to learn how to write an effective press release, our next half-day training session is in Dublin on March 7th 2012.
This will equip you with basic media skills to help you publicise your research, business, or event. You will learn about How To:
- Identify what makes ‘News’
- Find out how to hit the headlines
- Write a successful press release . . . one that isn’t instantly binned!
- Contact journalists, and
- Develop good media relations
If you’ve any queries, don’t hesitate to get in touch — there’s a contact link on our workshop site. And we look forward to welcoming you on the day.


California Voters to Decide Costly Bond Issues for ‘Climate Resiliency’
Flooding at the south end of Seacoast Drive in Imperial Beach during a king tide in 2015. Photo by Chris Helmer / City of Imperial Beach
Given California’s international leadership in addressing climate change, it isn’t surprising that voters will be asked this November to approve billions of dollars in bonds to help the state become more resilient.
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But why settle for one ballot proposal when you can have three?
Competing plans for “climate resiliency” bonds come from three sides of state government: the Assembly, the Senate and Gov. Gavin Newsom.
If any of these proposals are approved by voters in November, the money would be broadly spent, mostly to fund building and retrofitting projects and state grants to communities to prepare for the impacts of climate change.
That’s on top of the $12.5 billion for wide-ranging climate-change programs in the governor’s proposed budget.
It’s anyone’s guess which, if any, of the proposals will prevail, or how lawmakers will ultimately determine the key elements of what voters will see.
The only certainty is that the three proposals will generate a lot of questions.
What Is Climate Resilience?
Climate scientists used to talk about “mitigation” — changing behavior and harnessing technology. But, with the world unable to put the brakes on greenhouse gas emissions, the current approach focuses on “resilience,” devising strategies for coping with an unpredictable and dangerous new climate.
Resilience projects are aimed not so much at preventing sea level rise, wildfires, droughts and extreme heatwaves, but helping people and communities survive.
Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean the state has given up trying to reduce carbon emissions, said Kate Gordon, Senior Climate Advisor to Newsom.
“This is the opposite of throwing up our hands,” Gordon said.
“We need to find strategic places where infrastructure can be improved,” she said. “We need to reduce our climate risk, particularly among our more vulnerable communities. We are being proactive and thoughtful.”
The stakes are high. If greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, by the end of this century, the average acres burned from wildfires would increase by 77 percent, losses could reach $18 billion from rising seas and heat-related health emergencies will increase dramatically, according to the state’s Climate Change Assessment.
What Is the Governor Proposing?
Newsom is seeking $4.75 billion, the most of the three proposals.
He recommends spending 80 percent of the funding on projects that address immediate risks from floods, fires and drought. The rest of the money would tackle slower-moving, long-term risks from rising seas and extreme heat.
What clearly distinguishes Newsom’s plan is an emphasis on water — including groundwater management, flood control, reviving the Salton Sea and ensuring safe drinking water in communities around the state.
By Julie Cart | CalMatters TIME OF SAN DIEGGO


Our 2nd time having this event and the weather was once again amazing. More than 40 classic vehicles showed up and went on a 40 mile Road Tour across some amazing and beautiful roads. The cars and trucks looked right at home as they were lead through the twisting and turning roads. What made it more exciting was that there were several young folks that join the Road Tour in there classics cars and trucks. It's important to keep engaging folks to keep these older vehicles on the road and being driven. We are looking forward to perhaps a spring time drive along with a 3rd Cruising with the Classics next fall. See complete photo coverage on our media page.


All of us are facing an unprecedented situation. We slept in one world and have woken to a totally different world. We can’t go to work, our children can’t go to school, we can’t even step out of homes. This sudden unexpected situation is stressful to most of us especially those already dealing with mental health issues.
For those too lazy to read the whole blog may refer to the tips given at the end of the article.
So, we are locked down, unable to step out and worried about the present situation and the future. Dealing with these thoughts and a drastically changed routine is bound to cause stress. Let’s understand how to deal with it.
Let’s look at some of the positives about the situation. We have been given clear guidelines of do’s and don’ts and they are enough to keep us safe. Simple measures like frequent hand washing, social distancing, staying at home and wearing a mask when we symptoms of cough and cold.
Unless we are foolish enough to think that this won’t happen to me and become careless, the chances of getting the infection are very less with the above precautions.
Now that we have laid down the basic guidelines to avoid infection or infecting others, lets discuss how to reduce the stress we are facing on a day to day basis.
If you are feeling very anxious and, on the edge, analyse yourself. Are you spending too much time on social media reading forwards regarding the pandemic or are continuously watching the news about the number of positives, the number of deaths etc.?
Stop that right now. The news will not change because you are not watching it but your mind certainly will.
There are is so much unauthenticated news about the pandemic, make sure of getting the information from the right sources.
Lets also try and keep our minds busy.An idle mind is a devil’s workshop after all.
Does that mean we should be constantly working?
No. It means we make all efforts to keep our mind diverted by various means.
Do you remember a time when you felt I wish I had more time to do this or that?
Well now is the time. To go back to childhood hobbies, to tell your children the stories you learnt in your grandmother’s lap and to pour love and life back into your relationships.
Give, give and give some more. To the beggar, to your maid or even to the stray dog in front of your house. In giving the soul finds satisfaction and the mind relaxes. If you are a religious person, prayers help too.
Have you heard that a healthy mind is housed in a healthy body?
Well get up and work on it. Exercise daily, eat nutritious home cooked food and sleep well and on time. Even at home follow a routine. It helps you to master situations in life better.
There is some don’ts that you have to follow as well. Do not listen to or spread rumours. Do not turn to drugs and alcohol to reduce anxiety. Do not panic if you have symptoms. Do not use medicines on your own but continue medications you have been already prescribed. Consult your doctor if the anxiety worsens.
Above all stay home, stay safe.
We will overcome this together.
10 tips to control anxiety during the time of corona Pandemic
- Accept the situation—people all over the world are facing it and so am I.
- Be calm yet cautious—thinking that I will surely get the disease and die is wrong so also is the thinking that it only happens to other people and not to me.
- Connect emotionally but socially distance yourself—live your life, laugh and love but all via social media or the telephone.
- Do not believe rumours, get information from authentic sources only.
- Exercise daily, after all a healthy mind is housed in a healthy body. Relax your mind too with breathing exercise, pranayama, mindfulness (all available online)
- Forgo watching news that makes you anxious. The news will not change if you stop watching it, but you mind certainly will.
- Give to others in need and let their happiness be a balm to your soul.
- Heal yourself by healthy habits like nutritious food and adequate sleep. Say no to drugs.
- Isn’t this the time like no other? Make most of the abundant time at your disposal and go back to doing things you always wanted to do like hobbies, playing with children and relaxing.
- Judiciously follow advise of hand washing, social distancing and wearing a mask when having symptoms of cough and cold. If you are already on medication for any physical or psychiatric condition, do not forget to take them.
If all of this fails, please consult us.
Dr. Srilakshmi Pingali
Roshini Counselling Center 326,
Laxmi Nilayam, Near ITC Grand Kakatiya Hotel,


Onward! I have developed an interest in the drug culture as of late. I don't use any illegal substances, but I think that the culture and the things people go through enjoying and producing them are absolutely fascinating. Recently, I've watched three documentaries on marijuana, Marijuana Inc., Standing Silent Nation, and The Green Rush. Along with the article about the Emerald Triangle in Rolling Stone a few issues ago, these opened my eyes to the many aspects of marijuana and it's production and prohibition.
The Green Rush
I watched The Green Rush and it was very interesting. It's inspiring to see the American Dream exemplified in this story of marijuana growers in North California. These farmers go through the same experiences that "legitimate" farmers go through, and more. They have to deal with the federal government and the DEA of course, but that's in addition to the usual destructive insects, animals, irrigation design and thieves. The documentary is incredibly insightful and these farmers stand as a stark counter-point to the selfish "smash-and-grab" tactics of other growers who grow about 5,000 plants of marijuana and then get busted by the feds because they have essentially grown a vineyard of weed. I don't want to give the ending away, but it's truly a shocker. I highly (excuse the pun) recommend this documentary.
These are sustainable farmers who grow what they can maintain and live on. Quite a different character from the greedy drug creators that we are taught to hate.
This CNBC-produced documentary attempts to show both sides of the story. It centers on the Emerald Triangle, a region of California that is very active in marijuana cultivation and sale. In fact, according to the documentary at least 2/3rds of Mendocino County's economy is from the sale of marijuana. The documentary focuses on the economic aspects as well as the residual crime aspects of marijuana. Pretty interesting as far as the big picture is concerned, but not as personal as The Green Rush.
Standing Silent Nation
This is by far one of the most paining documentaries I've seen in a long time. Standing Silent Nation tells the story of the Oglala Sioux tribe in South Dakota that attempted to grow industrialized hemp, believing that tribal sovereignty protected them, only to have the DEA come in and chop down their hard-earned crop. Now, it is important to note that industrialized hemp is cannabis without psychoactive chemicals, so you cannot get high by smoking hemp. This film illustrates at the same time a battle for reform of law and tribal sovereignty. Highly suggested for anyone who believes in freedom.


From Ireland’s salt marshes to the Netherlands’ peatlands and Italy’s underwater seagrass; Ocean investigates whether Europe’s coasts could hold the answer to our carbon questions.
When it comes to fighting climate change, we often think about planting more trees. But coastal wetlands capture and store carbon even better than tropical forests.
In this episode of Ocean, we travel to Ireland, the Netherlands and Italy to find out if we are overlooking a climate change solution that’s right under our feet.
Ireland’s CO2-storing salt marshes
With every high tide, the waves of the Atlantic wash over Derrymore Island marshes. It’s more than a scenic view; it’s a natural carbon sink. A team from University College Dublin is here to study just how well these marshes help remove carbon from the air.
“Salt marshes are a tidally inundated habitat, so they’re low-lying, and the plants that live here — they need to be able to tolerate the salty conditions and also the waterlogged conditions, that actually make salt marshes good at storing carbon,” explained Grace Cott, a coastal wetland ecologist at University College Dublin.
All plants capture CO2 to grow, but on dry land, they release most of that carbon back into the air when they decompose.
Marsh grasses are different: saturated by salty water, they’re less likely to break down, keeping their captured carbon in the soil.
“We’re trying to really get a sense of exactly how much carbon is being stored in this habitat, and then we can propose different ways of managing these habitats so that they can continue to store carbon,” Grace Cott added.
The key tool for this research is the eddy covariance tower — a sensitive instrument that tracks the exchange of gases between the soil and the atmosphere, indicating the actual amount of carbon the marsh is capable of storing.
“What we calculate here is the fluxes of carbon dioxide and water vapour,” revealed Lisa Jessen, a researcher in saltmarsh ecology at University College Dublin.
“We are seeing CO2 uptake during the daytime because of photosynthesis and then CO2 carbon dioxide emissions at night time because of plant respiration.”
This thriving wetland is capturing more carbon than it’s letting go. But this only happens when conditions strike a balance, not too wet and not too dry.
“When the systems get flooded, they really struggle to continue to work properly,” Environmental Scientist, Elke Eichelman, told Ocean.
“In the other extreme, if we drain the ecosystem for, say, agricultural use, that really detrimentally affects the system and releases a lot of carbon.”
If coastal wetlands deteriorate, they can turn from a carbon sink into a carbon source, exacerbating climate change.
“Coastal wetlands around the world are under threat by development, agriculture and also sea level rise,” Grace Scott explained.
“Within Ireland particularly, we have lost a lot of salt marsh habitats over the last number of years, but also globally, that’s true as well. And is true for mangrove forests and is true for seagrasses.”
Rewetting peatland in the Netherlands
Draining a wetland triggers the decomposition of organic matter stored over the centuries.
Dutch polders are a good example. Underneath these green fields in northern Holland is peatland – a type of wetland where conditions stop plant material from fully decomposing.
At nearly five meters below sea level, water has to be pumped out continuously to keep the land dry for dairy cows. But this patch has been re-wetted, and now Typha plants, also known as cattails, are sprouting from peatland submerged in about 15 centimetres of water.
Because the soil is no longer exposed to oxygen, it’s not releasing nearly as much CO2 from decomposing peat.
Aldert van Weeren, from Wetlands International Europe is running this experiment. He thinks this could be a greener alternative to traditional dairy farming in the area.
“The amount of carbon which is attached to one litre of milk produced on these meadows is about the same [amount] as burning two litres of benzene petrol in your car,” he explained to Ocean.
“At the moment you re-wet, there are no carbon emissions coming from this area anymore. But then you can’t have cows running around and grass. So you see a different crop. And instead of being a dairy farmer, I am now a fibre farmer!”
The plant is naturally strong, flexible and resistant to rot. Aldert van Weeren sees big potential for its fibres — from non-woven fabrics to greener construction and packaging materials.
“It’s almost impossible to crank it. You can try what you like, you can even stand on it — it’s a very stable structure because of these cells and its sponge system in there. And it makes it a good building material and a perfect insulation material,” he explained.
“That’s what we think will be the future of farming — this kind of thing, making nice building material for the city of Amsterdam in the background.”
Possible financial incentives for cutting down emissions and restoring natural habitats could help make this land use financially viable in the long term. Plus, new lightweight machines could propel wetland farming to a larger scale, turning captured carbon into sustainable building materials.
“This is made of just chopped cattail layers on top of each other. As a binder, we use magnesium oxide. It’s not burning, it’s self-supporting, and it’s an insulator,” said Aldert van Weeren.
“Those cellulose fibres mixed with water gave you [a] kind of board — just made from pure plant fibres without any binder. This is a hydromechanical binding! People don’t believe it, but it’s true, it works!”
The secret of Italy’s seagrass
Coastal carbon capture isn’t limited to land — it’s also happening underwater.
A lagoon in Italy’s Emilia Romagna is a natural fish habitat used for extensive aquaculture. The patches of seagrass provide more than just an ideal nursery for fish: globally, these underwater plants capture 10% of all the carbon buried in ocean sediment.
Half a century ago, all local lagoons were carpeted with seagrasses. Most of these plants have since been wiped out, likely due to pollution. Now, a European-funded project LIFE-TRANSFER is replanting surviving grasses in nearby lagoons, inspired by promising results from a pilot site near Venice.
“We need to reverse the process, so we have to reach a phase where the seagrass is expanding, as has happened in the Venice Lagoon,” said LIFE-TRANSFER project coordinator, Graziano Caramori.
“We have a good example of a success story that we want to export throughout the Mediterranean, and not only that — across all of Europe.”
Led by Graziano Caramori, the research team has come up with a method to give seagrasses a new home. They lift patches from a donor site and swiftly move them to another spot with similar characteristics.
Their aim is to boost the odds that these underwater plants turn into lush seabed meadows. In the long term, this should result in cleaner water, less coastal erosion, and new safe havens for aquatic wildlife. This work is being done in Italy, Greece and Spain.
“We will certainly be giving an enormous gift to the environment by improving the biodiversity of the area — but we’ll also be giving a gift to ourselves, increasing the capacity for CO2 sequestration, and as a result, making a contribution to the fight against climate change,” concluded Michele Mistri, a professor of marine ecology at the University of Ferrara.
From salt marshes to seagrasses — some of the best solutions to the climate challenge are right at our shorelines.


The summer is almost upon us and FarFetched
is excited to provide the soundtrack. This week we are releasing
videos for two singles from upcoming projects, as well as the latest
instalment of the BadTaste podcast series curated by Adult Fur and
titled Adult Taste. The first video is “Escalators” from hip hop duo
Scripts n’ Screwz. Later this week we will also drop “Shave My Brain”
from the eclectic group Standing Sleep.
“Escalators” is the perfect summer anthem, ideal for a block party or
knocking in the trunk on a ride through the city. The video was filmed
in St. Louis by Gra Area Media and features Scripts n’ Screwz
delivering lyrics while cruising in a classic Impala.
“Shave My Brain” is the newest single from NY/STL group Standing
Sleep. Vocalist Lika Shubitidze and producer Loose Screwz teamed up to
create a captivating tune about erasing one’s memories. The video,
directed by Civil Ape, adds the perfect visuals to accompany
Shubitidze’s haunting lyrics.
Finally, this week will also see the release of Adult Taste, a podcast
created by artist Adult Fur. As part of the monthly BadTaste series,
Adult Taste ranges from pop, electronic, rock and everything in
between. Adult Fur’s new remix album, Ran, will be available next
Click here for the Adult Fur x FarFetched presents Adult Taste podcast.


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The Members Site
Transcript: "We are the Canadian Coast Guard"
Video length: 2:35 minutes
Fade in. Swooping shot over top of a coastline with the waves crashing into the shore.
The 3D title “We Are The Canadian Coast Guard” appears on the water and the camera view flies through it.
Music fades in
Narrator: We are the Red and White…
Overhead shot of CCGS Henry Larsen breaking ice in Newfoundland.
Narrator: …114 ships, 21 helos, and 4,500 members working round the clock to protect and secure 243,000 kilometres of Canada’s vast and rugged coastline — the largest in the world.
Two Rescue Specialists drive a Fast Rescue Craft in front of white capped mountains in the Strait of Georgia. A Bell 429 flies through the screen. A deckhand wraps a rope on the deck of CCGS Henry Larsen. An engineer on CCGS Henry Larsen welds in the one of the ship’s workshop. A Marine Communications and Technology Services officer works at her station. A navigator makes measurements using a compass and a chart on the bridge of CCGS Griffon. An instructor and student are seen working together in a classroom at the Canadian Coastguard College. A CCG member is seen participating in a fall arrest exercise. A Canadian Coast Guard Lighthouse is seen from above.
Narrator: We are first responders…
Four CCG members are seen leaving dock onboard the Cape Kuper.
Narrator: …the foundation of Canada’s immense maritime search and rescue system, and the best response regime in the world, saving an average of 15 lives a day.
The Cape Kuper is seen driving at full speed on the ocean. A Rescue Specialist drives a Fast Rescue Craft in a pacing exercise.Two Rescue Specialists reach out for a person in the water during a Search and Rescue exercise. Two Rescue Specialists pull a person up out of the water on to a Fast Recue Craft using ropes, with the Cape Kuper in the background. Close-up of the two Rescue Specialists bringing the person into the FRC.
Narrator: We are standing guard…
An MCTS officer is seen speaking on the radio at a workstation.
Narrator: ...monitoring 1,233 vessel movements each day across the country thanks to our highly skilled Marine Communications and Traffic Services Officers and Integrated Technical Services personnel.
Two MCTS officers work together on a computer at a workstation.
Two Information Technology Services run diagnostic tests while sitting at computers inside a micro tower station. A panning shot of an Information Technology Services engineer working on an electronics panel.
Four MCTS officers are seen having a meeting in the Quebec City MCTS office.
Two Information Technology Services officers are seen climbing a micro tower with a CCG helicopter on the ground in the background. A panning shot of the Information Technology Services officers conducting a maintenance check at the top of a microwave tower. A panning shot of a microwave tower from the ground to the top of the tower.
Narrator: We are environmental stewards
Four CCG members are seen on a dock wearing life vests and CCG uniforms.
Three CCG members drive a FRC with trees and mountains in the background.
A close-up of an Environmental Response Officer demonstrating how a skidder is used to collect oil out of water.
Narrator: We are active in indigenous and coastal communities…
CCG members and CCG Auxiliary members are seen at a meeting.
Narrator: …building partnerships and empowering Indigenous peoples to take an active role in increasing the safety and security of their waters.
CCG members and CCG Auxiliary members are seen signing and organizing papers. A CCG Auxiliary member is seen holding a CCG plaque. A CCG Auxiliary member is seen speaking at a meeting. A CCG member and CCG Auxiliary member are seen shaking hands in a knife ceremony.
Narrator: We keep the Canadian economy moving…
A close up of CCGS Henry Larsen’s bow breaking ice followed by an overhead shot of the CCGS Henry Larsen moving through the ice.
Narrator: ...by keeping shipping routes clear of ice and facilitating the safe and efficient transport of more than 470 million tons of cargo transiting through Canadian ports each year.
A shot from the air approaching CCGS Henry Larsen from the aft. An aerial shot CCGS Henry Larsen breaking ice. CCGSHenry Larsen is seen leading two ships through an ice field. An aerial shot of CCGS Henry Larsen creating a channel in the ice for a ferry in Newfoundland. An overhead shot of CCGS Henry Larsen breaking ice.
Narrator: We are welders, machinists, technicians, carpenters and electricians…
A CCG member is seen painting a buoy in a paint booth.
Narrator:… Maintaining and repairing equipment and systems onshore that keep our organization moving offshore 24/7/365.
A panning shot of a welder spot welding. A panning shot of a machinist taking apart an engine. A panning shot of a shop worker grinding metal. A machinist screwing together a piece of equipment. An electrician repairing a lightbulb. An electrician working on an electrical panel. A shop worker hosing down a buoy in a shop.
Narrator: We are innovators…
A close-up of a CCG light keeper holding up a light bulb.
Narrator: …transforming the Canadian Coast Guard into a strong, proactive Agency under the government’s Oceans Protection Plan.
A panning shot from the inside of a lighthouse to the expansive coastline.
Narrator: We are a key partner…
A Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Officer is seen speaking on the phone at a workstation.
Narrator: …working collaboratively with our partners to support enforcement by identifying threats and providing the ships, helicopters and people to help them do their jobs.
A panning shot of a JRCC Officer moving from one computer screen to another. A JRCC Officer moves around magnets representing CCG vessels on a big map.
A chopper pilot is seen touching buttons inside the cockpit of a CCG helicopter. CCGS Sir Wilfrid Laurier is seen at dock in Victoria from the air.
Narrator: We are critical to Canada…
Three Rescue Specialists make a transfer from a FRC to CCGS Mink during a pacing exercise.
Narrator:…taking a proactive, take charge approach to emergencies, pollution, and vessels of concern along the world’s longest coastline.
An aerial shot of CCGS Henry Larsen breaking ice. The shadow of a helicopter can be seen.
A helicopter is being driven into a storing garage while CCGS Sir Wilfrid Laurier is seen in the background.
Narrator: We are courageous.
A close up of a CCG member in a hardhat and high visibility vest on the deck of a ship.
Narrator: We are dedicated.
A close up of a CCG member in uniform standing in front of a chart.
Narrator: We are the Canadian Coast Guard.
A close up of a CCG member in a life vest standing in front of a bunch of buoys on the dock.
Background fades to black, the copyright message “ Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, represented by Canadian Coast Guard, 2017.” is displayed followed by the Canada wordmark.
Fixed and floating aids to navigation
Marine communication towers
The Coast Guard's mandate derives from the Oceans Act, the Canada Shipping Act and the Constitutional Act, 1867. The Constitutional Act, 1867 gives the Federal government exclusive legislative authority over navigation, shipping, beacons, buoys, lighthouses and sable island.
The Oceans Act and the Canada Shipping Act give the Coast Guard its specific mandate. Parliament has mandated the Coast Guard to play the lead role in ensuring that our waterways are safe and accessible, and to provide services for the economical and efficient movement of ships.
Your work here will directly influence the lives of Canadians. You may be an officer heading out to sea on one of our beautiful red and white vessels, a communications officer working on highlighting our achievements to Canadians, or a dispatcher who will answer distress calls as part of a life-saving chain. You may be doing any number of other important duties necessary to keep this engine humming. All these moving parts complete the whole, which is a living and breathing testament to the power of taking an active role, being doers, and being passionate about the work that we do.
It’s an exciting time to be joining the Canadian Coast Guard. The government’s newly-announced Oceans Protection Plan is a bold statement that reinforces our critical leadership role in marine safety and security. We’re the experts — Canadians count on us in matters of life and death, and we answer the call when our environment comes under threat. We relish this responsibility. We’re pleased to welcome you to an organization that can proudly say that it saves an average of 13 lives per day. We are — and now you are — the Canadian Coast Guard.
When I tell people about the Canadian Coast Guard, I like to say “If you can serve, you can serve here.” I thank you for your decision to serve. Here’s hoping our organization is the last port of call in your career."


17 Dec 2019 bitcoin & blockchain expert predictions
Time flies when you’re a bitcoin investor and has it ever flown since it reached stratospheric heights just one year ago when it traded at its record high of $19,298.70.
Today, after a dismal week of trading near record lows of $3,200, investors are faced with the reality that recovery will be long, volatile and unpredictable.
We’ve rounded up a collection of expert opinions to give you a range of predictions for 2019.
What are the experts saying about bitcoin and blockchain for 2019?
Here’s a quick roundup of what the experts predict for 2019 for the beaten-up bitcoin market and the blockchain technology groundswell.
Tom Lee, Co-founder, Fundstrat Global Advisors
“The risk/reward is still strong,” Lee told CNBC. “Given the steep discounts of bitcoin to our fair value models, the excessive bearish sentiment about fundamentals does not seem warranted.”
Michael Moro, CEO, Genesis Global Trading
“The general market sentiment seems to be that this ‘crypto winter’ could last for some time; not too many people are expecting a V-shaped recovery in 2019,” says Moro.
Mike Novogratz, CEO, Galaxy Digital
“I fundamentally think you’re going to see big adoption in 2019, 2020. Lots of the items in the digital world, the e-gaming space, are low value items so I think people will be more comfortable participating in blockchain. We’re making big investments in that area.” Ethereum World News
Per Roman, Managing Partner & Alec Dafferner, Partner, GP Bullhound
“We are yet to see the best of cryptocurrencies. Blockchain activity is picking up with even traditional financial institutions ensuring they do not get left behind. 2019 should be the year institutional capital flows into cryptocurrency, with previous obstructions and tight regulations lifted.” GP Bullhound newsletter.
Courtney Rickert McCaffrey, Manager of Thought Leadership, AT Kearney
for“By the end of 2019, Bitcoin will reclaim nearly two-thirds of the crypto-market capitalization as altcoins lose their luster because of growing risk aversion among cryptocurrency investors,’ says the AT Kearney report. “More broadly financial regulators will soften their stance towards the sector.” Forbes
Jake Yocom-Piatt, Co-founder of Decred
“In 2018, we saw the ICO model die, Ethereum flame out, dApps and tokens go to zero, and ERC-20 projects generate insanely creative business models just to avoid regulation in a brazen grab for cash. Observing these failures reinforced our belief that the blockchain-driven future isn’t a quick fix. It will take decades, patience, and longevity to build and gain mass adoption. I’d compare it to the Internet, which was founded way back in 1969 but didn’t see mass adoption until decades later. Even though many of the people who worked on the Internet foresaw the applications we use today, it took years for the technology to support it and for consumers to adopt it. The takeaway is that only blockchain projects with strong governance systems are built for the long-run and will survive in 2019 and beyond. Contrary to popular opinion, 2019 will not be about exciting new ways to use blockchains. It will be about which cryptocurrencies get the fundamentals right, organize their collective intelligence, and can endure the gyrations induced by ignorant prospecting. Just like during the dot-com bubble, endurance matters. Those that survived the dot-com crash stood tall over those who ran out of gas. It was those projects that came to dominate the space.”
Akbar Thobhani, CEO of SFOX
“2018 was marked by significant infrastructure developments and institutional buy-in. Despite the recent bear market conditions, this trend will continue next year. I believe that as prices recover, we’ll see at least one $50 million or over ICO that is registered with the SEC or otherwise operates with their blessing. We may even see a player like Fidelity including cryptocurrencies as a 401(k) investment offering. Additionally, whereas most stablecoin efforts were concentrated in the US in 2018, in 2019 more and more countries will adopt their own stablecoins — and in part as a result, stablecoin volume will become collectively greater than the trading volume of a top five crypto.”
Joel Kruger, currency strategist at LMAX Exchange
“While we wouldn’t rule out a downside extension that takes Bitcoin through $2,000, we don’t believe the price will spend too much time below this barrier and will start to find renewed demand ahead of an eventual push back to the topside,” Kruger said in the Verdict.
Kevin Murcko, CEO of CoinMetro
“Despite Bitcoin’s fairly limited use cases, and even though its technology may be less sophisticated when compared to some other projects, it will likely continue to remain the market leader in 2019. Bitcoin still has the reputation and the liquidity that make it preferable to other cryptos,” Murcko said in the Verdict.
David Thomas, Director of cryptocurrency broker GlobalBlock
“Many billionaire investors in traditional financial markets remain optimistic about the long-term upward trend in crypto despite the near 85 per cent decline in valuation across the board,” Thomas says. “The simple fact is that these high-profile investors can manage losses that arise from these movements in high-risk emerging assets as they are only a proportionately small part of their overall portfolios, and they believe in the value that will be created in the long-term.”
Kristjan Kangro, Founder & CEO of Estonian blockchain firm Change
“As such, it doesn’t matter what the price of bitcoin is, what matters is how blockchain restructures our societies and economies. We are seeing this restructuring happening today and productivity will follow. In short, even if bitcoin becomes obsolete, the underlying blockchain technology that has spawned an entire industry will still live on,” he told The Independent.
Romal Almazo, cryptocurrency & DLT Lead, CAPCO
“Once the price of bitcoin bottoms, expect a slow recovery or stagnation, coupled with consolidation. Bitcoin has been the biggest asset bubble in history; and history tells us that after a collapse in an asset bubble recovery is slow, if not anemic. Expect a collapse and consolidation throughout the market – miners, tokens and coins,” Almazo writes.
Barry Ritholtz, Founder, Ritholtz Wealth Management
Finally, just to help you keep the bitcoin and blockchain bulls in perspective, check out Barry Ritholtz’s opinion piece 2019 Forecast: Predictions Will Be Wrong, Random or Worse in Bloomberg.
“The spectrum of predictions ran from the sublime to the criminally negligent to the utterly insane. It got so bad that a website was set up to track all of the Bitcoin prophesies.” Bloomberg
As you get ready for the holidays, the Blockcoin Today team hopes your own bitcoin and blockchain predictions will be merry and bright.


Megafon Olympic 45"
This is the film we created for MegaFon (one of the leading Russian telecom brands) to promote it's support of the Sochi Winter Olympics 2014. We tried to show how modern tech affects the way people interact with the Olympic Games. It's not official TV broadcasting anymore. It's much more personal – every tweet, every like, every post, every share adds to a bigger story.
ECD – Mikhail Kudashkin
CD – Selim Unlusoy
Copywriters – Ivan Dergachev, Mikhail Kudashkin, Alina Buzina
Art-directors – Taisiya Ganzha, Eugenia Balabanova
Photos by Eugenia Balabanova


UPDATED: Monday, August 25, 2014 ---
Former University of Wisconsin football recruit Dominic Cizauskas of Mukwonago has been sentenced to one year in county jail, and three years probation following his conviction of third-degree sexual assault.
He was convicted for assaulting a woman in her dorm room back in December. He was convicted in June of this year.
MADISON, Wis. (AP) _ A former University of Wisconsin football recruit has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman during a visit to the Madison campus last December.
A jury in Dane County convicted 18-year-old Dominic Cizauskas of third-degree sexual assault Wednesday night. Prosecutors say the linebacker from Mukwonago sexually assaulted an acquaintance in her dorm room.
The woman and Cizauskas testified that they had consensual sex several times in the past. Prosecutors argued that no matter what had happened in the past, the woman did not want to have sex with him that night and said no.
Cizauskas faces up to five years in prison when he's sentenced in about two months.


Dr. Maryann Sheps recently had the unique opportunity to spend a week with the Bahamian Olympic Team at Florida’s National Training Center (NTC) in Orlando. Dr. Sheps spent most of her week treating Olympic Gold Medalist sprinter, Debbie Ferguson, a.k.a. “Fast Fergie.” Using the Biolase Diolase 10 laser, Dr. Sheps administered daily laser treatments to Ferguson, who is training for this summer’s 2012 London Olympics. The world class athlete enthusiastically said, “I’ve never felt better!” And reports a 100% improvement in her aches, pains and tweaks after her laser treatments. Ferguson will continue to receive spot laser treatments as Dr. Sheps plans on traveling to Ferguson’s races at the Prefontaine Classic in Oregon this June and later in the summer to London for the Olympic Games.
But this week long trip isn’t the end of the story. Keep an eye out for future posts about Sheps and Ferguson. The pair are writing a book about the journey of underprivileged communities and the strong female athletes who emerge and thrive despite their adversities.


2015 data breaches up by 0.8%, as compared to 2014
According to the latest December 15, 2015 Identity Threat Resource Center (ITRC) data breach report—750 data breaches were recorded with more than 177 million records exposed. The ITRC breach list is a compilation of data breaches confirmed by various media sources and/or notification lists from state governmental agencies. This list is updated daily, and published each Tuesday.
The latest report indicates that hackers are concentrating on medical/healthcare sectors that account for 68.4 percent of all breaches, followed by government/military: 19.2 percent, business: 9.1 percent, banking/credit/financial: 2.8 percent, and educational: 0.4 percent. 2015 data breaches are up by 0.8 percent, as compared to 2014.


Commercial Rent is an Overlooked Issue in the Toronto Mayoral Race
The upcoming Toronto Mayoral Election has everyone talking about housing affordability, public transit funding, and public safety. There’s another crucial issue flying under the radar that affects nearly every neighbourhood: commercial rent.
What’s commercial rent? It’s lease agreements that businesses sign for physical spaces. As opposed to residential rent, which is a lease agreement between residents (individuals, families) or industrial rent, which is for manufacturing- or industrial-type spaces. We launched commercialrent.ca because we’ve heard from countless Toronto & Ontario businesses that dread the words ‘lease renewal’.
Maybe you don’t own a business and think it doesn’t affect you. But we know otherwise! If you do own a brick and mortar business, you’re probably shuddering right now.
There are no guidelines or legislation governing landlords’ actions when it comes to business tenants, unlike the protections provided for residents. This absence of accountability creates challenges for renters. Whereas residents have guidelines around lease increases, and a dispute board to get some accountability when dealing with a bad landlord, none of that exists for your favourite small businesses.
Here are top 3 reasons why Toronto mayoral candidates should be talking about commercial rent.
1. No rent regulations means less chance to “shop local”
What happens when a business owner gets a bill from their landlord for $10,000s for “adjustments” or “damages” (or anything at all)? Or is notified that their monthly rent bill will go up by 30% per month starting two months from now, and they’re just trying to pay off their pandemic-related loans?
Local businesses have three options when the rent goes up: pay, move, or close.
Moving means packing up their entire premises and taking a gamble on another landlord – provided they can find a new location that’s affordable and has just as much customer traffic. Moving means more fees, too.
Closing means another small business going under, for reasons totally unrelated to how good their product, service, or business model is.
Both options mean less small independent businesses in our neighbourhoods!
Many of us try to support independent businesses in our cities by shopping at local stores rather than big-box chains or Amazon. We get that shopping at corporate chains means our money props up shareholders and CEOs somewhere that most likely isn’t Toronto. We like to think of ourselves as part of the fabric of the city, supporting the great little shops that we wouldn’t get anywhere else.
Unpredictable and unaffordable rent fees mean small businesses get swapped for Shoppers Drug Marts, LCBOs and Dollaramas. Or they sit vacant for years as landlords wait to make a profit off a sale to condo developers. And if you live in Toronto, you know a lot of these sales are to developers, which is a whole other conversation….
2. Fewer small businesses means fewer good-quality jobs
When small businesses shut down because of high commercial rent, local workers lose out because there are fewer good-quality jobs in the community.
Remember when Queen Street West between University Avenue and Spadina used to be lined with vibrant independent shops? Now, big brands like Zara, Aritzia, and Starbucks dominate the landscape. they often fail to prioritize worker benefits, fair wages, or career growth opportunities. On the other hand, the small businesses that succumbed to high commercial rent costs were more likely to value their employees, offering better pay, benefits, and a positive company culture because they know it’s what keeps their best workers around.
Ontario is a wild west when it comes to commercial rent. It’s already led people in our communities miss out on decent jobs that pay well and provide stability. Making commercial rent a priority in the election means we can create government support to boost the local job market and make our neighbourhood economies stronger.
Toronto Mayoral candidates are approaching this from different angles – from better transit to incentives. We hope that reducing the red tape between commercial landlords and tenants makes an appearance. It’s one of the best ways to ensure businesses can afford to pay the wages to retain great talent.
3. Eerily vacant main streets increase the risk of crime and reduces residential property value – and no one likes them!
Empty main streets can be downright spooky and have some serious consequences for the community.
Picture this: eerie silence, boarded-up windows, and deserted storefronts. Not only does it make you feel like you’re in a ghost town, but it also increases the risk of crime. When there’s no bustling activity, these areas become prime targets for mischief-makers. That affects everyone’s safety.
Vacant main streets also bring down the value of residential properties nearby. No one wants to live in a neighbourhood that’s empty and, let’s be honest, pretty unappealing. It’s a turn-off for potential buyers which in turn can drag down the prices of houses.
Speculative landholders can sit on main street properties for decades and still come with massive profits when they eventually sell to a condo developer. All while that street and neighbourhood decays. Pretty uncool if you ask us. The better solution is to ensure that local businesses can afford the rent to locate in every neighbourhoods while reducing this type of speculative land buying.
Toronto Mayoral candidates are calling for various solutions to empty streets – making sure these spaces are filled with vibrant local businesses is a proven technique to revitalize & keep communities safe.
What can the Mayor’s office actually do about commercial rent?
This is important to understand – especially when you’re speaking to a candidate or City Councillor and they push back because it’s not under their jurisdiction. While the Toronto Mayoral Election is highlighting many valuable issues – this one has flown under the radar as ‘the cost of doing business’ for too long.
Commercial rent regulations are indeed set by the Provincial government. (And you know we’re in their ears about this already!)
But Mayors coming together and telling the Provincial government that the commercial rent legislation needs an update to keep jobs in the economy can be very effective.
All political parties want to boost job creation and make sure working-age Canadians are employed. If jobs are put at risk because of an old piece of regulation that can be fairly easily updated, the government might seriously consider acting.
(By the way, so many businesses are renters rather than owners because the federally-set requirements for a very high down payment on commercial properties make buying out-of-reach for many business owners.)
Asking your candidate to support commercial rent improvements in the Mayor’s office can create pressure on the Provincial government to create standards and mechanisms that prevent these situations. And it’s a way to feel good about shaping the city you live in!
In the 2023 Toronto Mayoral Race, we’re calling on ALL candidates to prioritize Toronto’s economic recovery with a local focus on business.


Ramadan 2024 in Abu Dhabi
Ramadan is one of the key events in the Islamic world, as this is a mandatory time for fasting for all believers, which lasts between 29-30 days. During the Holy Month, Muslims have to abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and intimacy during the daytime. We have prepared a special article, in which we will talk about how this time will affect public life in Abu Dhabi, and what benefits can be derived from it by guests and residents of the UAE.
About Ramadan in the UAE
The beginning and the end of Ramadan is determined according to the Muslim lunar calendar, in which the dates are shifted by 11 days every year. The UAE moon-sighting committee confirms the specific time of the Holy Month.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomical Society, stated that in 2024, the month of Ramadan will begin on March 11 and will end at sunset on April 9, followed by Eid al-Fitr on April 10.
The Holy Month is a time for the development of self-discipline and charity, as well as spiritual unity. Some believers often offer additional prayers and make a pilgrimage to Mecca, especially for the last 10 days of fasting.
Foreign citizens and tourists in the UAE are not obliged to observe the fast, but they must show respect for local traditions. According to Article 331 paragraph A of the UAE Criminal Code, it is prohibited for all citizens, residents and tourists of the country to eat, drink, smoke in public places and make any other action violating the fast.
Important! Since 1960, a cannon shot has been used to notify believers of the start of Iftar. In Abu Dhabi, cannons are installed at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and in the Umm Al-Emarat Park.
Social life during Ramadan
During Ramadan, a number of strict restrictions are imposed on the consumption of food and water in public places throughout the country. The opening hours of all public, private companies and retail stores will be reduced, apart from in malls, where the opening hours are usually increased.
Important! During the period of Ramadan, all museums, amusement parks and other attractions of the UAE capital will operate normally.
The working hours of banks and shops
In accordance with the Labour Law, the working hours of employees in both the public and private sectors should be reduced by two hours during Ramadan. This rule applies to all officials, regardless of their religious affiliation.
During this period of fasting, banks will operate at a reduced capacity. Most local financial institutions will be open from 9:00 to 14:00, while some from 10:00 to 15:00. Branches located in large shopping centres may close later. For example, SAMA bank will be open from 10:00 to 16:00, while others may have more flexible timetables from 9:30 to 17:30.
Such a trend has affected most local stores and supermarkets. Facilities will be open from 10:00 to 12:00 and from 20:00 to 02:00 during Ramadan.
Food courts, cafes and restaurants
Over the past few years, the approach to organising Ramadan in the emirate of Abu Dhabi has become more liberal. The overwhelming majority of dining institutions switch to the evening mode of operation and are open for visitors from 19:00–21:00 to 22:00–02:00 during this period.
The most popular cafes and restaurants in Abu Dhabi that are open to non-Muslims during the daytime are Tamba (open daily from 12:00 to 04:00), Nahaam (open daily from 12:00 to 23:00 and Saturdays from 12:30 to 16:00), Beach House (open daily from 12:00 to 00:00) and Punjab Grill (open daily from 12:30 to 00:00).
Important! Restaurant opening hours throughout the Holy Month may vary.
During Ramadan, believers can consume only two main meals:
Suhur is a meal that traditionally includes water and dates, which are served until dawn.
Iftar is a meal after evening prayer, which may include dates, yoghurt, water, Middle Eastern meat dishes and sweets.
Tourists can also enjoy Suhur and Iftar. You can taste traditional dishes during Ramadan in the most popular restaurants of Abu Dhabi, including Al Khayal, Silk And Spice, Bab Al Qasr, Mykonos Abu Dhabi, Cyan Brasserie and Kamoon.
Important! It is recommended that tourists reserve seats in advance, because the largest influx of visitors in cafes and restaurants is observed during the evening.
Loud music is also not welcomed and there will be no live performances until the end of the Holy Month.
Sales during Ramadan
Malls in the UAE are the best places for holiday shopping. During Ramadan, many stores have special offers and discounts from 50-80% off of various goods, including clothing, shoes, souvenirs, home accessories, jewelry and more. Muslims are urged to avoid shopping during this period, while tourists and local non-Muslims can get great deals. The Ounsss electronics stores will give discounts of up to 80%, and Voga Closet clothing stores are offering up to 70% off. There will also be great deals at Sephora, West Elm, Hibobi, Mumzworld and many others.
Important! The opening hours of Abu Dhabi shopping complexes will also change during the Holy Month. Most establishments, with the exception of on-site supermarkets, will be open from 10:00-13:00 and 20:00-01:00.
The majority of local online stores also offer attractive promotions and discounts. You can find offers with a limited validity period and flash sales.
Every year, in the run-up to the holiday, the Abu Dhabi Co-operative Society (ADCOOPS) allocates funds for thousands of food and non-food products which will be sold in their retail stores at discounts ranging from 30% to 65%.
Visiting the UAE during Ramadan can prove to be a promising option for investors interested in acquiring property in the country, because many development companies offer significant discounts and perks for buyers during this period.


Ashley Zlatopolsky is a Detroit-based storyteller with more than 10 years of experience. She writes, edits and creates content strategy for media, brands and private clients.
Her award-winning work includes editorial, branded content, interactive content, SEO, marketing, ghostwriting, web, e-commerce, UX, radio and documentary production.
With 55+ cover stories published worldwide, her writing can be found in Rolling Stone, The Washington Post, National Geographic, Billboard, the Guardian, USA TODAY, The Daily Beast, Detroit Free Press, Healthline, Parents, SELF, Health Magazine, U.S. News, Business Insider, The Atlantic, Real Simple, HealthyWomen, VICE, Greatist and more.
Her clients include Shinola, Beachbody On Demand, Red Bull, Mattress Firm, StockX, Wix, Frontier Communications, Little Caesars Arena, Chegg, Movement Electronic Music Festival, Bloc Music Festival London and the City of Detroit, among others.
She has also developed branded content for select brands such as Verizon, Barefoot Wine, Coca-Cola, A&E, Pop-Tarts, Chevrolet, BMW, Saks Fifth Avenue and Adobe.
For work or partnership opportunities, please use the contact form below.


COLOUR OF THE YEAR
Every December, the world’s leading colour authority announces a colour that best encapsulates the mood and aesthetic of the coming year. Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2023, Viva Magenta, is bubbling over with passion, signifying strength, fearlessness and a new narrative.
Viva Magenta 18-1750 is a shade rooted in nature, descending from the red family. It encourages joy and optimism, plus self-expression without restraint. It is a statement colour, exuding a rebellious spirit and zest for life.
“Viva Magenta descends from the red family, and is inspired by the red of cochineal, one of the most precious dyes belonging to the natural dye family, as well as one of the strongest and brightest the world has ever known.”


Tourists coming to Spain for the first time are often shocked at how late the Spanish eat. Hungry and frustrated, they’re perplexed at 7:00 p.m. when they head out for dinner, only to realize that most restaurants don’t even open until 8:30 p.m. (To say nothing of the fact that the locals won’t be showing up to eat until at least 9:30 p.m. — and even later on weekends.) If you’re used to an eating schedule that revolves around the hours of 7:00 a.m., noon and 6:00 p.m., Spain can be a challenge.
This is a country of night owls, so the daily rhythm of mealtimes is skewed to the latter half of the day. El desayuno, or breakfast (usually some kind of sweet bread and coffee), is eaten quickly at home or at a bar on the way to work, which starts at 9:00 a.m. or later. Then there might be a second breakfast, or almuerzo*, at around 11:00 a.m. This is usually another coffee and something salty like a slice of tortilla or a tosta.
Lunch, or la comida, typically happens between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m., but from what I’ve seen at all the sidewalk cafes around town, madrileños can easily stretch it to 5:00 p.m. Chalk that up to la sobremesa, a word I really wish existed in English! Literally, “about table,” it means lingering at the table, chatting after a meal. Traditionally, la comida is the biggest meal of the day and usually runs two or three courses, with dessert, wine or beer and then coffee of tea to cap it off. It can also be a screaming deal, since many restaurants offer a three-course menu del día for 10 or 12 euros.
La merienda, or afternoon snack, comes next, sometime between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. If you finished lunch at 4:00 p.m. and won’t be eating dinner until 9:30 p.m., you can see why a little mid-afternoon pick-me-up is necessary, especially for kids. And though my Spanish teachers have insisted to me that la merienda is really only for los niños, I’m not so sure. I’ve seen so many chalkboard menus outside bars around town inviting people in for a beer for la merienda that I think Spanish adults have started wondering why they’re getting left out of the afternoon fun. (Though they do have el afterwork, or happy hour.)
Still hungry? Good, because now we’re headed into la noche, which means it’s time for la cena (dinner). Since the Spanish eat dinner so late and because it can be so warm late into the evening in Spain, dinner tends to be lighter and less intense than lunch. Poached fish, a big salad or a hearty bowl of soup all work. Dessert, if it’s served, is also light and tends to revolve around fresh, in-season fruit.
I’d be lying if I said that this eating schedule didn’t freak me out when I found out we’d be moving to Spain. Mr. Natalie and I had always eaten dinner on the late side back in the States (seriously, if you both work and want to cook your own food, how is it even possible to eat before 8:00 p.m.?), so late dinners didn’t worry me too much. But when I used to work in an office, I’d be staring at the clock by 11:30 a.m., wondering if it was too early to go heat up my lunch yet. How on earth would I make it all the way to 2:00?
Surprisingly easily, actually. You just need to, as they say, move with the queso. If you’re visiting Spain, then the best thing you can do for yourself is just give up on your notion of when the “right” time to eat something is. Just. Let. It. Go. I guarantee that only the first day will be hard; once you’ve had your first dinner at 10:00 p.m., eating later the next day is going to be easy. And what better way to experience the flavor of a country than by eating with the people who live in it?
Also, there’s something natural and even logical about making the biggest meal of the day the one you eat for lunch. In Spain, this tradition has its roots in the country’s agricultural history. Farmers and shepherds ate big meals in the middle of the day, napped and digested during the hottest hours, and then headed back outside to work until the light was gone. While modern Spain’s mostly city-dwelling population doesn’t need to worry about tending the fields, it still makes sense to give your body plenty of time to process food and burn calories before heading to bed.
So these days, I’m fully on Team Late Lunch. I love the tradition of eating longer and later. Even though now I’m mainly eating lunch en casa, I take my time and eat it in courses. (Okay, what this really means is that I never skip dessert.) And unlike how I used to hoover my sad desk lunch in 20 minutes while staring at my computer in a cubicle, now I always eat at the table and end the meal with a café cortado or té rojo. ¡Qué excelente!
More Food for Thought When Eating Out in Spain
- If you find yourself hungry in Spain at noon, don’t panic. I promise that you aren’t going to starve. Tons of restaurants, especially those in the touristic areas, offer all-day food service. Even in small pueblos, most bars will offer some kind of food — like a bocadillo (sandwich) or tortilla — even while the kitchen is closed between meal services. But if you’re interested in authentic, higher-end, or off-the-beaten-path restaurants, be sure to check their hours ahead of time.
- Thinking of ordering paella for dinner? Stop! Paella (and the delicious array of Spanish rice dishes that get mischaracterized as paella on menus that feature more photos than words) is carb-heavy and rich — the last thing you want to eat a few hours before going to bed. In Spain, paella is a lunchtime meal eaten with a big group. It’s especially popular for lunch with la familia on Sundays.
- The Spanish have coffee after dessert, not with it. So if you’ve made it to the end of a long Spanish meal and find yourself itching to order coffee, dessert and the check (la cuenta) all at once so you can be on your way, take a deep breath and relax. You’re on vacation! Savor your dessert and then order a coffee like los españoles. The night is long in Spain — enjoy it.
- I’ve been told that only turistas order a glass of wine before — or without — a meal here. That may be the case, but the wine in this country is so wonderful (and so wonderfully priced) that I don’t mind the scarlet T on my forehead when I order just a glass of Mencía at the bar. Spaniards usually start their meals (or nights out) with cerveza, then switch to wine with the meal. Cocktails aren’t for drinking before dinner either, como los estadounidenses. In Spain, cocktails, especially el omnipresent gin tonic, are after-dinner affairs.
- Full disclosure: this custom irks me. In Spain, cheese is served as an appetizer, not a dessert, so you’ll rarely find queso listed with the postres. But for the cheese-obsessed like me, this makes zero sense, especially because Spanish cheese is so good! Though I suspect that the Spanish are starting to catch on to the popularity of a cheese plate for dessert (or maybe they’ve just been harangued too often by French tourists from their neighbor to the north?) because every now and then I come across a restaurant with cheese on the dessert menu. And if not, sometimes I’ll just order it anyway and figure I’ve used my one “ugly American” point for the day. At least I don’t have a selfie stick.
*If you’re confused, no pasa nada. El almuerzo in most other Spanish-speaking countries means “lunch.” In Spain, that’s la comida.


October 27, 2014
See the latest interview with Niklas Zennström discussing philanthropy, the Green Mentorship Award and drivers of clean technology today.
The interview was published in the Swedish Energy Agency’s publication ‘Investera i Cleantech 2014‘. With this annual publication, the Swedish Energy Agency aims for an increased understanding for and interest in environmental and energy technology, cleantech, amongst different actors. Innovative technical solutions and business concepts have great potential to be developed into successful companies, contribute towards solving climate challenges and, simultaneously, generate economic growth.
Additionally, you will find an interview in the publication with our 2013 Green Mentorship Award winner Orbital Systems.
Please note, the publication is available in Swedish and English.


The United States Housing Market accounts for roughly 15% of the country’s GDP. This number may seem low, but as the country is coming off a very volatile 2016, it’s fair to say that the housing market hasn’t had its fair chance to meet expectations. In fact, the housing market is far from immune to the highs and lows of the country’s economic troubles. Since the real estate bubble, banks have had a tight hold on lending standards and guidelines. Now, in the wake of all of this, it appears things are beginning to level out.
Here, LendPlus reviews two major economic trends we’re starting to see from the housing market this year.
Gradual Price Increases
Through October 2016, prices consistently rose every month. In the latter half of the year, the largest national gain came in at 5.61% increase. According to Forbes and economic experts, these prices are expected to increase but gain slowly. The Federal Reserve raised the interest rates in December 2016, the first time since 2006. In 2017, we see another increase in the interest rates, possibly 3, causing mortgage rates to rise. Though it’s not expected to increase past 4.3, it is still higher than previous historical norms.
Improved Credit Availability
Even though rates are on the rise, lending standards are likely to be let loose a little. This means mortgage credits are likely to be more available for potential borrowers. For first time home buyers, this is particularly good news. The Federal Housing Administration is likely to lower the fees for those buying their very first home. Additionally, Fannie Mae and Fannie Mac will begin backing larger mortgage companies, allowing easier access to homes for buyers in more expensive markets. This comes for the first time in over 10 years since the major economic recession in 2007/2008.
In regard to the housing market, 2017 is going to see the beginning of a good leveling out, with some increases where needed. Buyers may experience a gradual increase in interest rates, but more medium sized cities are beginning to develop and the increase in available credit makes it possible to buy into these areas.


Congratulations to Dale DeNunzio! Thank you to KVOA Channel 4 News for hosting the first ever Monsoon Master competition!
Roof damage is a primary focus for our business as a local roofing company. In the midst of monsoon season, we realized it is our responsibility to raise awareness. Sponsoring KVOA’s Monsoon Master’s competition was the best way to do just that!
Roof damage is caused by a number of different catalysts. These can range from flying golf balls, sun and heat exposure, or simple wear and tear from old age. The most serious roof damage occurs when a roof has been neglected. Failure to maintain a roof in Tucson during monsoons guarantees a breach in the integrity of the roof system. This is when leaks develop. Leaks will wreak havoc on your home.
Roof damage is often overlooked. Many home owners will neglect the maintenance of their roof with the belief it is in good condition because there are no leaks. This is not true. A leak is the result of existing roof damage. Identifying roof damage before a leak will save you money and peace of mind. This is why we will offer a free roof inspection. We can identify any roof damage to prevent future leaks. Call us today and schedule your FREE roof inspection. 520-888-6707. Don’t delay, call TODAY!
Congratulations again to Dale DeNunzio! Great job on being the first to predict the exact amount of rain received in Tucson this year during the 2015 monsoon season. We would also like to thank KVOA Channel 4 News for hosting the competition that allowed us to raise roof damage awareness with Tucson homeowners. We value the opportunity to spread the word on the importance of consistent roof maintenance and inspections. Remember to be proactive and not reactive. Let us stop the leak before it starts!


Brenda has not only worked with young people at the centre for the past 15 years but has also been involved in manifold community projects including Globalfest, and work done by such local organisations as the Community Development Project, and Newbury House Arts Centre. The award specifically acknowledged Brenda’s work with the organisation Foroige in the setting up of a youth café.
Brenda, a native of Cavan, who moved to Mayfield in 1991, said of the night
’ I was very surprised to be nominated let alone receive a reward. Time spent with young people is always enjoyable and rewarding and never feels like work. It was an enjoyable and positive occasion for Mayfield. It was amazing to see just how much love people have for their area and the people in it. A night to remember!’
She was presented with her award by Roy Keane, the former Ireland and Manchester Utd midfielder who at one time was a trainee at the Mayfield Community Training Centre.
“It’s nice to give a bit back,” said Keane. “I’m from Mayfield, born and bred here, married here, the kids were christened here, I grew up here.”
“Sometimes Mayfield gets a bad reputation,” he said. “I think it’s unfair. There are a lot of good people, a lot of good people in the community, and that’s why I’m here tonight, to show my appreciation.”
All at the centre would like to congratulate Brenda on her well deserved award and wish her continued success. Manager Maria Lago O’Sullivan had this to say
‘Our most sincere congratulations to Brenda on receiving the Mayfield Community Volunteer Award. This is a much deserved recognition of her time and effort of working with the community. The work she does in our CTC is so valued not only by the Board of Management, staff and colleagues but very especially by the young people that come to our centre.
We are delighted that the community of Mayfield has recognised her in this way and have honoured her with the first Mayfield Community Volunteer Award.
We are full of admiration for her and so proud of her achievements.


The movie “The last samurai” featuring Tom Cruise has been acclaimed as one of his best performances as well as a tremendous and moving depiction of traditional Japanese societies at the end of an era. It tells the story of an American military officer who is captured by the samurai Lord and who ends up spending an entire year in their village, slowly becoming one of them. The almost idyllic vision of this traditional society’s place in contrast with the aggressive pursuit of all things modern by the Japanese Emperor and government. In a poignant scene, the traditional hair bun of a young samurai is violently cut off by a Japanese police officer dressed in Western clothing. The entire movie captures the sorrowful and deliberate destruction of an ancient way of living, sacrificed on the altar of modernity, yet with a ray of hope.
The current state of Japan, with an extremely low birthrate that threatens the very survival of the country and reveals a profound existential crisis, should be considered against the backdrop of this accelerated and arguably aggressive removal of traditional forms.


Announcing the 2020 40 Under 40 winners: Complete list
Honorees will be recognized at an April 16 dinner at the Hyatt Regency Wichita.
Who's behind the private group wanting to turn Century II into an air, space museum?
On Friday, the group presented a privately funded, $1.5 billon "Riverwalk" project.
Air Force says Boeing has ‘different level of intensity’ on KC-46 fixes
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Goldfein said this week that the Boeing Co. is closing in on a fix for one of the biggest issues still vexing the KC-46 tanker.
In an interview with Defense News, Goldfein said he hopes to have a fix by the end of March for the tanker’s remote vision system that could be in testing with the service by the end of the summer.
That system — which has airmen refuel other aircraft using a series of cameras while seated at a console rather than laying down…
Remember hexavalent chromium from a movie? High levels found at McConnell AFB
A hangar and break room at McConnell Air Force Base have been found to have dangerous levels of a chemical compound linked to cancer, according a report by McClatchy.
In documents obtained by the newspaper chain, it said hexavalent chromium is used as an anti-corrosion agent on the KC-135 and the KC-46 tankers that are based at McConnell.
Hexavalent chromium was the leaked chemical in the 2000 movie "Erin Brockovich."
An October memo, McClatchy reported, said more than 50 personnel could have…
Wichita safe in global Airbus job cuts
Airbus said this week it will look to cut nearly 2,400 jobs due to sluggishness in the space and defense market.
Slideshow: With final numbers in, see 2019's most popular business jets
Textron Aviation in Wichita helped the industry score its best year for business jet deliveries in a decade.
Announcing the 2020 40 Under 40 winners: Day 4
The WBJ has been awarding 40 Under 40 since 1998.
List analysis: Fancy dinners, big concerts and worthy causes show giving was up in 2019
The area's top 25 fundraising events collected $11.8 million in donations last year.
Krysl fulfills her passion for education as leader of USD 259 HR department
Krysl is one of two inductees into the 2020 class of the Wichita Business Journal’s HR Professionals Hall of Fame.


Louis Nguyễn, an investor of TV reality show Shark Tank, on Monday said he plans to invest VNĐ10 billion (US$438,000) in Hoa Nắng Agriculture Company Ltd, a start-up producing organic agricultural produce.
Louis Nguyễn announced at the signing ceremony that Hoa Nắng would diversify from rice into other kinds of organic produce, and focus on both the domestic and export markets.
Besides selling in the domestic market, the company would also export, including to the US, with the strong development in the former driving exports, he said.
Without disclosing the stake he was buying in the company, he said merely its structure would be changed.
Nguyễn also announced he was investing in VIETSWAY Enterprise, in this instance saying he would pick up a 49 per cent stake without revealing the investment amount.
VIETSWAY is an e-commerce company that now sells more than 200,000 Vietnamese products on international e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Walmart, Ebay, Sears, Google Shopping, Etsy and Rakuten.
The investment in VIETSWAY would help Hoa Nắng export, he explained.
Hoa Nắng is famous in Shark Tank for having founders Lâm Anh Tú and Đặng Thị Trường An with a lot of ambition and enthusiasm but little money.
When they came to Shark Tank, Hoa Nắng had had another investor. When Nguyễn agreed to invest in it, the company shut down since the investor pulled out his stake.
The two founders then set up a new company with the same name.
Nguyễn owns SaiGon Asset Management.


While economists, politicians, and commentators continue to question whether the consumer part of the Chinese economy will ever generate the demand for goods that their economy needs for continued growth, Chinese retail sales of domestic goods have taken off. And, as we have shown in previous papers, during the past five years this economic growth has come entirely from China’s cities.
When Chinese farmers left the countryside they headed for the big city. As a result, China’s largest cities have grown more than 10% each year for the last two decades. This means that China’s rapid urbanization has been concentrated in its largest cities. Figure 1 shows where China’s migrant, non-hukou population has settled.
Today, more than twice as many Chinese live in urban areas as in the countryside. In India, the ratio is reversed. China is no longer a nation of farmers, but India remains so.
China’s actual percentage of city dwellers is now 69%1. India’s is 30%2. China’s percent urbanization equals that of many mature developed countries, such as Italy or Japan, and is much greater than the urbanization of its largest Asian neighbors, Indonesia and India.
Today, the number of people living in Chinese cities who are not counted by the official census as part of China’s urban population has grown to 260 million.1 This uncounted urban population is equal to all the people living in U.S. metropolitan areas.
At the start of 2011, China’s actual urban population was 926 million2 rather than the officially reported number of 666 million.3 Thus, the number of Chinese in major metro areas is three times larger than the total population of the United States. China’s current urban population dwarfs that of other countries and even the European Union.


On Tuesday 17 April, I’ll appear on BBC Radio 4’s language programme Word of Mouth. The show, presented by Chris Ledgard, is exploring the legal and linguistic issues surrounding the word ‘Olympic’, and I offer some thoughts on the word’s history. Before the International Olympic Committee was created in 1894, many different events were called Olympic or variants of it, like Olimpick and Olympian. These included sports festivals, like the Liverpool Olympic Festivals of the 1860s, the Morpeth Olympic Games that ran from the 1880s until 1958, and the Wenlock Olympian Games, as well as circus and music hall acts. My favourite, from 1815, is My Gyngell’s travelling variety show, which featured ‘Hydraulicks, Hydrostatics, Deceptions, Musical Glasses, Sagacious Birds, Astonishing Dogs, Olympic Exercises, and the Equilibrium Wire’. Or how about Pablo Fanque’s ‘unrivalled Equestrian Troupe’ who, in the 1850s, toured Britain with their ‘Wonderful and Extraordinary Feats, introducing New and Novel Features in the Olympian Games and Scenes of the Circle’.
The key thing is that all of these events were called Olympic or its variants: there was no monopoly on the word, as there is now, and its is up to historians to stress this historical diversity. We even have IOC founder Pierre de Coubertin on our side: “The term [Olympic] is in the public domain,” he wrote in 1910. “If you are not afraid of looking ridiculous, and if your efforts are considerable enough to be compared to what goes into organising a standard Olympiad, go ahead and use it. No one has the right to prevent you from doing so.”
Word of Mouth will air at 4.00pm on Tuesday 17 April on BBC Radio 4.


If you’re after a new TV, you’ll find a huge range of options in terms of size, features, and brands, and with technological improvements making TVs look better every year, you might be surprised by the improvements you see. As new technologies become the norm, the previous premiere models start getting excellent discounts. However, many of these deals come and go quickly as TVs come in and go out of stock. So if you see a deal which catches your eye, snap it up fast to avoid disappointment. Here we’ve rounded up some of the best TV deals from across the internet.
Today’s Best TV Deals
- 65-inch Vizio V-Series 4K TV — $450, was $500
- 65-inch Samsung Class 7 4K TV — $480, was $500
- 75-inch LG NanoCell 75-Series 4K TV — $920, was $1,000
- 55-inch Samsung The Frame 4K TV (2020 model) —
- 65-inch Sony A80K OLED 4K TV — $1,199, was $1,278
65-inch Vizio V-Series 4K TV — $450, was $500
- SmartCast smart software for streaming service access out of the box
- Share content from iPad, iPhone, or Mac via Apple AirPlay 2.0
- Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for enhancing content
- Low input lag for gaming
For under $500, this 65-inch Vizio TV gives you a lot of screen for a small price. The television runs Vizio’s own SmartCast smart software, which is a bit like having a Google Chromecast baked into the television, offering instant access to streaming services like Netflix.
Like all high-resolution 4K TVs worth buying, the Vizio V-Series has HDR on board (in this case, we’re looking at two standards: Dolby Vision and HDR10+) for making movies, shows, and live events appear more lifelike, and has low input lag plus Freesync support if you want to use it for gaming.
65-inch Samsung Class 7 4K TV — $480, was $500
- 50-inch TV for a household name synonymous with quality for under $400
- One-click access to all the leading streaming services including Disney+
- 4K Upscale Engine for turning Full HD content into 4K Ultra HD
- HDR for drawing more detail from the scene at hand
Best Buy’s offer on this 65-inch Samsung TV is a 4K TV deal not to be missed. It’s (of course) a Smart TV, so it can access all the leading streaming services out of the box like Disney+ and has Samsung’s 4K Upscale Engine on board for showing HD content in a 4K Ultra HD resolution.
Our one gripe with the Samsung Class 7 is that it only has two HDMI slots on board, so you’ll want to invest in an HDMI splitter if you’re wanting to hook up a set-top box and other accessories, like a PS5. One of these will set you back around $30 — but that’s a small price to take home 65-inch TV for only $500.
75-inch LG NanoCell 75-Series 4K LED TV — $920, was $1,000
- Big, 75-inch screen size at an affordable price
- Use your voice to control Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant
- Support for Apple AirPlay 2, HomeKit
- Great gaming features
LG’s NanoCell TVs represent a great value, with the kind of color and contrast you’d normally find on more expensive models. The built-in WebOS software has been updated for a clean and simple look that makes it easy to access tons of streaming apps from big names like Netflix, HBO, Disney+, Apple TV, Hulu, and more.
If you own Bluetooth speakers, you can connect them to the NanoCell 75-Series for a quick and easy (and wireless) way to do surround sound without an A/V receiver or a dedicated soundbar. Gamers will appreciate features like auto low-latency mode and TruMotion 120, which improves the refresh rate for a much clearer picture while gaming.
55-inch Samsung The Frame 4K TV (2020 model) — $1,199, was $1,278
- A television that doubles as a picture frame when it isn’t in use
- Incredible, futuristic design that’ll blend into any room
- Stunning QLED screen that’s perfect for movies and sports
- 4K Upscale Engine for displaying HD content in a 4K Ultra HD resolution
- Smart software to access streaming services like Disney+ out of the box
Is it a picture frame? Is it an original da Vinci? No, it’s Samsung’s The Frame TV. Designed to blend into the background and be used as a photo frame when it isn’t in use, The Frame is a television appealing to the most design-conscious of shoppers. An acquired taste, it’s one of the most innovative TVs on the shelves.
What’s fascinating about The Frame is it isn’t a gimmick. When it’s being used as a television, it has a stunning QLED screen, a high-end technology designed to rival the likes of the OLED TV above, delivering high brightness and fantastic contrast that’ll mark a massive step up from any standard LED television.
Because it’s a 4K TV, it’s also armed with Samsung’s trademark 4K Upscale Engine for showing HD content in HDR10+ , 4K Ultra HD for drawing more detail out of the scene at hand, and smart software to access streaming services like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix — when it isn’t displaying works of art while idle.
65-inch Sony A80K OLED 4K TV — $2,000, was $2,500
- The best picture quality in a 4K OLED TV thanks to Sony’s top-flight image processing
- Google TV for tons of streaming apps and built-in content recommendations
- Apple AirPlay and Google Assistant built-in
- Good sound for a TV
This Sony A80K 4K OLED TV offers the best picture quality you can find. But if there’s one thing that will be offputing about this TV it’s the price, though thanks to this discount it’s now a more affordable option.
The A80K is a dream come true for movie and TV show fanatics, with impeccable color accuracy and support for all major flavors of high-dynamic range (HDR), including Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG. And, surprisingly for a flat-screen TV, the built-in speakers sound really good all on their own — largely due to Sony’s unique technology that turns the entire TV screen into a speaker.
The only thing to keep in mind is that this model lacks support for the gaming enhancements of HDMI 2.1. You get HDMI ARC and 4K at 120Hz, but the A80K doesn’t offer variable refresh rate (VRR) or auto low-latency mode (ALLM), both of which are pretty important to PC and console gamers with the latest hardware. They may be added with a future firmware update, but if gaming isn’t a top priority, this TV will absolutely blow you away.
- This Dell gaming laptop just got a big price cut — now $700
- Tunisia vs France live stream: watch the game for free
- Australia vs Denmark live stream: watch the game for free
- Get these JBL earbuds and 4 months of Music Unlimited for $25
- Apple Cyber Monday Deals: Apple Watch, AirPods, iPad, MacBook


Tech Us Out
American house DJ/producer duo Tech Us Out continue to refine their signature sound on their latest fusion of progressive house and tech house, The Chase.
"We were shooting for a more energetic vibe," says TUO. Giving more focus to fills and builds, Tech Us Out have delivered an aggressive, drum-driven piece of dance music.
With 36 singles and EPs under their belt in the past 2 years, Tech Us Out is one of the most prodigious musical acts we know. Their debut album, The Blacklist, is scheduled for release later this year.


Apple has finally decided to launch iPad in India. iPad will available in India from January 28. The iPad will only be sold by Apple’s premium retailers. The iPad will be launched in two versions, the Wi-Fi-only version and the 3G+Wi-Fi version. Both will come in three capacities – 16GB, 32GB and 64GB.
The Wi-Fi only iPad will start at (approximately $570 or EUR 420), surprisingly cheap for Apple’s device, which is usually much more expensive outside the US. The 16 GB Wi-Fi version will cost Rs. 26,000, and the 32 GB and 64 GB versions will be also available, the 64GB version will be available for Rs. 37,000.
The 3G iPad will be priced at Rs. 33,000 for the 16 GB model and Rs. 44,000 for the 64 GB model. The 32 GB 3G iPad will also be available; its price is not yet known.