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[11/14.11]
Twenty-Two Year Old Claims Poker's Richest Prize of $8.7 Million

First published by Christina Kwan on Technorati:

In poker, it’s a mental battle, with yourself and against your opponent. The 2011 World Series of Poker Main Event final table featured thirty-five year old Martin Staszko of Czech Republic and 22-year-old Pius Heinz of Germany. A culmination of play that first started in July at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino, the lone two remaining vie for the $8.7 million first place prize. Considering that second place still receives a whopping $5.4 million, simply being in this position is incredible – it took the efforts and stamina that outlasted 6,863 other players.

So it is the setting in the Penn & Teller theater where $8.7 million cash rested comfortably on the poker table felt just a few feet away from each player. They could see it and they could sense it – victory, yet one wrong move and a mental lapse could considerably swing the momentum to their opponent. Each player made their way to Las Vegas from their residences overseas, they came too far for these errors.

With staunch supporters in each of their respective “fan boxes”, all night they cheered, “Mar-teeeeen! Mar-teeeen!” while across the stage they yelled “Pi-us! Pi-us!” Original songs were sung and chants continued throughout the evening. More than a game of poker, it seemed like the World Cup of soccer. An electric vibe reverberated throughout the theater while both players seemed unphased. Each player stared intently at the other in hopes of picking up a read, a gut feeling.

Interestingly, when both players were asked prior to play opening if they would take second place money if it meant that they would not win, Heinz replied, “Absolutely.” Staszko, however, was opposite, he said, “No, because I would not win. The gold bracelet is worth a lot more than the money….there is only one bracelet.”

After battling back and forth heads-up for hours, Heinz felt the immense pressures of often having the shorter chip stack only to slowly grind his way back to near even. At times, he even overtook the chip lead momentarily. Staszko methodically plugged away with his stoic demeanor while Heinz showed more of the drain that came with the swings.

It’s the test of champions after all. The grandest prize in all of poker and Heinz found himself jumping up in victory just fifteen minutes after the clock struck midnight. Asked how his victory would be received in Germany, Heinz replied: “I can only imagine. I think it’s going to be huge when I get home.”

Achieving instant rockstar status, Heinz will go on to become yet another young face in the sea of World Series of Poker Main Event Champions. A native of Cologne, Germany, Heinz’s win will continue to help spur the growth of the poker movement across continents.

Heinz quote provided courtesy of the World Series of Poker media guide.

Photo courtesy of Jonathan Boncek/2011 WSOP.

[9.10.11]
Quiet Erik Seidel Makes Loud Impact

The low key demeanor carried by poker pro Erik Seidel doesn’t mean that his presence doesn’t speak volumes.  The number two ranked player in the world according to the Global Poker Index had cruised to the final table once again at Epic Poker’s second tournament of the season. Heading into the tournament’s final day second in chips at the Palms Casino in Las Vegas, Seidel continues to consistently battle the oppositions.

While the world of poker has its fair share of boisterous and colorful personalities, Seidel has been a veteran of the game and has always let his play do the speaking.  Most may remember the scene from the poker movie Rounders when Matt Damon’s character watched Johnny Chan’s 1988 championship winning move against Seidel.  Perhaps that was one of the most mainstream public moments of Seidel’s career, albeit, most likely not at his urging.

Playing in his hometown of Las Vegas, Seidel looks to become a regular at Epic Poker tournaments.  At the inaugural Epic Poker tournament in August, Seidel made it to final heads-up play against the eventual champion David “Chino” Rheem. Unlike Rheem, however, Seidel had once again made it to the final table.

The 2011 year has been good to Seidel. He has been enjoying much success across multiple continents which had earned him an Epic Poker  five year league card that is based on a specified criteria of consistent placements within tournaments. In an effort to standardize some kind of qualification process to its league tournaments, Epic Poker awards players on card levels that range from two-years to  five-years. Once a player’s card expires, the player is again reevaluated for their card qualification.

Seidel, a poker hall of fame inductee, has enjoyed dual careers before. As a Wall Street trader, Seidel was guaranteed a steady paycheck. However, the stock market crash of 1987 prompted Seidel’s return to poker on a full time basis. To date, he has earned over $16,616,082.

While some public figures today seem to need the antics, Seidel remains completely content with letting his play do the talking. His success is not paid for by corporate sponsorships that want to use him to reach the public. Rather, his success comes by way of executing incredible skill at the poker table day in and day out.  There’s no doubt that any endorsement by Seidel would be lucrative, yet he doesn’t need or care for the limelight. His veteran status in the world of poker has gained the industry’s respect.

At a time where there are frequent debates on the success levels of internet players versus live table players, Seidel appears to have solidified the notion that skill is skill no matter what era or what platform the skills are sharpened. Seidel comes from a time when poker didn’t have the mainstream media it does today.  Now, the playing fields are flooded with both old school and new era internet players. While it’s not known exactly how Seidel has arrived at his formula for successfully navigating the poker tables, one thing is for sure, he possesses stone cold talent for a game that relies on both the cards and the right attitude.  

For his efforts at the second Epic Poker tournament, he walked away with a fourth place payout of $184,100 to complement his inaugural Epic Poker tournament second place $604,330 payout. Consistency, once again, this is why Seidel’s name tends to surface at the top of the list.

[9.8.11]
Expect More. Performance, Innovation, Entertainment - Only from IGT

With a complete suite of show-stopping games and systems, International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) gives casino operators the power to perform as it unveils its latest products at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) from Oct. 4-6, 2011 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas.

IGT's Booth 2241 will intrigue guests with great games created from pop culture icons and blockbuster titles that deliver new levels of entertainment to players worldwide. IGT's systems and games allow operators to develop new levels of player loyalty and enhance their ability to efficiently market to players while differentiating their casino floors. IGT's global focus and growth will be showcased at G2E as well, with localized themes and solutions.

IGT will highlight how the Company's worldwide pop culture success continues. Attendees will see MegaJackpots® titles that resonate with players worldwide such as Ghostbusters(TM) Who Ya Gonna Call, Elvis The King® Multi-Level Progressives, Big Buck Hunter® Pro, Breakfast at Tiffany's(TM), The Twilight Zone®, Sex and The City(TM) Fabulous and The Joker's Heist(TM).

Joining the all-time player-favorite Wheel of Fortune® lineup is Wheel of Fortune® Triple Extreme Spin(TM), Wheel of Fortune® Wild Getaway and a new Wheel of Fortune® Multi-Level Progressive game.

As the curtains part, IGT will premiere the expansion of the MegaJackpots® Center Stage(TM) series on the eye-catching 103-inch and 70-inch platforms, and the new Center Stage Duo(TM) with its 55-inch screen. Joining the top-performing American Idol® and Wheel of Fortune® titles on stage will be the highly anticipated The Dark Knight, Ghostbusters(TM), Big Buck Hunter® Pro and Texas Tea®. This new lineup will refresh casino floors with the flexibility and efficiency operators have come to expect from IGT's innovative Center Stage(TM) series. [read]

[9.5.11]
Aristocrat to Premiere Three Exciting New Modules of its Oasis 360™ System at G2E

All around the globe, Aristocrat creates the world’s greatest gaming experience every day. At G2E 2011, Aristocrat will show how that experience is enhanced with its Oasis 360 system and its three new exciting modules, which will premiere at G2E: nCompass™, a single-solution content delivery technology; nRich™, a completely new type of bonusing solution; and nVision™, the industry’s most
advanced business intelligence solution.

“We have been actively listening to our customers and their changing needs. nCompass, nRich and nVision are new technologies that we developed in direct response to customer feedback,” said Aristocrat Vice President for Systems Sales & Marketing Kelly Shaw. “We have demonstrated the new technologies to customers, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Now we are very excited to show these technologies to the world at G2E.”

nCompass is the next generation in casino management system technology at the gaming device that encompasses the property’s total offerings with the player’s unique gaming experience. nCompass connects both new and legacy games, delivers high-impact content, advanced bonusing, and above all, empowers a property to have direct and interactive contact with its players. nCompass is a single solution that delivers video or animated content, provides state-of-the-art touch-screen interactivity, displays player points earned in a day (or points earned based on tier ranking), and gives a property and/or their vendor(s) the power to develop custom content. nCompass is the ultimate in flexibility, allowing a property to go so far as to even target marketing messages to specific players on individual gaming machines.

nRich offers a bonusing solution that is dynamic and reaches every carded player on the floor and grows every player on the floor based on their individual historical play/worth. nRich is different from all other bonusing applications in that bonusing offerings do not use static triggering mechanisms such as Coin-In, which could be meaningless or unachievable by a large majority of players. nRich increases profitability by focusing on growing every player in the CMS database, provides a personal bonusing experience to every
player thus driving increased loyalty, increased visitation and increase in players share of wallet.

nVision is a breakthrough in business intelligence. Casino management systems are designed to gather data; however, only nVision gathers meaningful performance information and provides analytical resources and toolsets that are customizable and can grow as demand for information evolves and grows. nVision empowers users to access key performance indicators across the entire operation, enabling faster and better decision making through quick insights into current and historical performance data. Additionally, nVision allows the user to choose standards reports or ad hoc reports that allow the user to segment performance data on any metric in the data warehouse. Oasis 360 is the most widely used system in North America, currently monitoring devices at more than 265
casinos. Oasis 360 is one of the gaming industry’s most sophisticated systems, and includes robust, proprietary features that can be tailored to each property’s individual needs.

[9.3.11]
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino to Host 18th Annual Celebrity Chefs Food Tasting & Auction to Benefit Ann Storck Center, September 23

Dozens of South Florida's most celebrated and beloved Celebrity Chefs will converge at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Friday, September 23 at 7 p.m. for the 18th Annual Celebrity Chefs Food Tasting & Auction to benefit the Ann Storck Center, one of Florida's most respected non-profit organizations. The event is presented by Mr. and Mrs. Joel Hochberg and the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. This year's "Heart of Gold" theme celebrates the commitment of Marvin C. Gutter, Ann Storck Center's Board President  from 1981-2010, who passed away in December 2010 after a long-lasting illness.

"This not-be-missed showcase provides our best local chefs with an opportunity to tout their culinary skills, serve great food and benefit a great cause," says Ann Storck Center's Executive Director Charlotte Mather-Taylor. "Food connoisseurs and our loyal attendees all agree that the Ann Storck Center's Celebrity Chefs Food Tasting & Auction is one of the most outstanding fundraisers of its kind."

One of the tastiest kick-off events of the season, The Celebrity Chefs Food Tasting & Auction will feature the distinct and varied gourmet flavors of South Florida prepared by more than 20 elite talented chefs. Guests will enjoy classic cuisine and conversation at elegantly appointed tables with designated seating amidst imaginative and fanciful decor, including one-of-a-kind, hand embellished electric guitar centerpieces created by Ann Storck Center artists. These guitars can be purchased for $100, with all proceeds directly benefitting the Ann Storck Center.

Local restaurants confirmed on this year's esteemed roster include 3030 Ocean-Marriot Harbor Beach, Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza, Anthony's Runway 84, Aruba Beach Cafe, Bamboo Noahs, Blue Martini Lounge, BlueBell Creameries, Bob Roth's New River Groves, Bongos Cuban Cafe, Brooks Restaurant, Casa D'Angelo, Chef Elisa's Catering, Hard Rock Cafe,  Hi-Life Cafe, Jimmie's Chocolates, Johnny V, Martorano's Italian-American Kitchen, Oceans 234, Renegade BBQ, Specialty Bakers, Sweet Girls Shop, TATU Asian Restaurant, Whole Foods Market/Wholesome Meal, Tequila Avion and PRP Wine International.

A variety of top-notch luxury silent auction items will include vacation packages, jewelry, sports items, autographed memorabilia and more hand-picked items in massive, professionally decorated gift baskets. A unique live auction called "Bids for Kids" lets guests make a difference by sponsoring a child attending the Ann Storck Center's Preschool.

 "We are so grateful to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, the chefs and the hundreds of people who participate in this spectacular event to help the Ann Storck Center raise vital funds for the important services they provide," said Roz Perlmutter, co-chair of the event together with Joan Ast, Maria Delegal and Marge Osceola.

[8.29.11]
Four Winds Hartford Announces Grand Opening

The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians announces that its new casino, Four Winds Hartford, will open to the public at noon Eastern time on Tuesday, August 30. Located at 68600 Red Arrow Highway in Hartford, Mich., Four Winds Hartford is approximately two and a half miles west of the city of Hartford between exits 41 and 46 on Interstate 94, and 45 miles northeast of Four Winds Casino Resort in New Buffalo, Mich. (Four Winds New Buffalo). 

“Hartford is an area that is home to a large number of Pokagon Citizens and we are extremely proud to open a new Four Winds Casino here,” said Matt Wesaw, Chairman of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians. “Four Winds Hartford has created approximately 400 new jobs within the casino in addition to the hundreds of jobs that were created during construction. We look forward to welcoming area residents to our new facility.”

Maintaining a similar look and feel in design and finishes to Four Winds New Buffalo, Four Winds Hartford features 500 slot machines, nine table games including blackjack and roulette, a 100-seat restaurant called Timbers Fast Food and Deli and a 15-seat bar. Four Winds Hartford is also home to Four Winds Outfitters gift shop where guests can find Four Winds logo apparel, Tribal artwork and other unique merchandise. 

Matt Harkness, General Manager for Four Winds, added, “When Four Winds New Buffalo opened in August 2007, it set a new standard for gaming in the Midwest. We are thrilled to bring the same high level of service to Hartford along with the exceptional gaming experience and promotions available at Four Winds New Buffalo.”

Adding to the excitement of the Four Winds Hartford Grand Opening, all Four Winds W Club members can win a share of $150,000 at either Four Winds location, including a grand prize of $100,000 in cash, on Sunday, September 4 during Labor Day weekend. Additionally, new players who sign up for a Four Winds W Club membership at either casino location can receive up to $400 in free slot play, earn points and redeem direct mail offers and promotional giveaways at both properties. More information on this promotion is available at the W Club inside each casino location. Copper Club members visiting Four Winds Hartford will also have access to a dedicated entrance on the east side of the building with priority parking. 

[8.23.11]
WMS Receives Approval from Nevada Gaming Commission for the Initial Commercial Release of WAGE-NET(R) Networked Gaming System

WMS Gaming Inc., a subsidiary of WMS Industries Inc. (NYSE:WMS), announced approval by the Nevada Gaming Commission for the initial commercial version of the Company's WAGE-NETnetworked gaming system solution interoperable with a specific slot accounting system. This first approval includes Remote Configuration and Download ("RCD") functionality of the WAGE-NET system.

WMS will begin to commercially launch its new Portal applications at casinos in Nevada, including the Jackpot Explosion(R) application, the first themed application in WMS' Ultra Hit Progressive(R) ("UHP") Portal application family. The UHP series is the first in a lineup of differentiated Portal applications and content designed to interoperate with WMS gaming machines on a casino floor utilizing the networking capabilities of the WAGE-NET system.

Dean Ehrlich, Vice President, Network Solutions, for WMS said, "Securing Nevada Gaming Commission approval for the first commercial version of the core WAGE-NET system, coupled with the launch of our Jackpot Explosion game, our initial UHP Portal application, represents another major milestone in our growth plan to bring exciting and innovative new gaming experiences to casino patrons and to provide a premium value proposition to casino operators. We expect to receive approvals in Nevada for interoperability with the other slot accounting systems in the future. Our initial placements in other jurisdictions have clearly demonstrated the incremental value of our Portal applications and RCD capability on our popular Bluebird(R)2 and Bluebird xD(TM) gaming machines.

"Our UHP application adds an integrated, secondary mystery progressive bonus experience to the base game," noted Ehrlich. "TheJackpot Explosion game's volcanic theme shows rising lava levels on the base game interface as coin-in increases and the trigger to the progressive jackpot is approached. With its random rewards and innovative ability to broadcast how close the progressive is to being won through stronger visuals and a unique ambient sound package, UHP enables unmatched levels of player excitement and celebration of the big win."

UHP is the first in a series of several unique Portal families of applications that WMS plans to introduce over the next several years. These Portal application concepts will feature multiple themes and reflect the Company's commitment to create innovative new products and solutions that provide exciting new gaming entertainment for players and are designed to drive increased performance for casino operators. To enhance players' entertainment experiences, the Portal applications combine WMS' industry-leading video and mechanical-reel base game content with the additional gaming entertainment offered by the Portal applications. Casino operators longer-term will be able to determine which Portal application they want to operate on each WMS gaming machine connected to theWAGE-NET system, which will enable them to uniquely tailor their casino floor to best suit their casino patrons.

[8.12.11]
New League Scales Epic Proportions

Since its inception, the newly formed and recently debuted Epic Poker League has created a monumental challenge to itself: to live up to its name. Conceptualized and operated by its parent company, Federated Sports + Gaming (FS+G), Epic Poker aims to revolutionize the poker landscape in all realms: live tournaments, its dedicated all inclusive online site, nationally televised events, social media games, and interactive digital programming.  

Epic Poker’s trademark slogan, Players First, is not just a line for careful positive branding, but a genuine reflection of the doctrines of its executives which include former President and Commissioner of the World Series of Poker, Jeffrey Pollack, and professional poker player Annie Duke. The league’s inaugural season includes four rake-free $20,000 Main Event tournaments with $400,000 in added money. The top 27 players with the highest earnings from the league’s regular season will be afforded the opportunity to participate in the $1,000,000 free roll event, the Epic Poker Championship.

Operating a league that includes many of the world’s top players is carefully gauged by its entry criteria. Utilizing FS+G’s Global Poker Index (GPI) ranking system, there is a comprehensive and legitimate calculation on Epic Poker’s player qualifications. Players are ranked weekly based on their performance by finishing in cash positions in qualifying tournaments occurring over the previous 36 month period. To date, over 200 players have qualified for the league.

While superstar veteran poker personalities like Erik Seidel and Phil Hellmuth have long engrained their names in the history books, Duke sees the Epic Poker League and its media resources as a way to shine the light on poker’s emerging players. “To see the incredible number of rising stars who showed up to support is really incredible,” said Duke. “There is a great mix of the players that people already know and the players who they should know but who just have not gotten the attention. To see that combination of players come together really exceeded my expectation.”

The Epic Poker League undoubtedly puts “Players First” on all levels. Launching their new site, editor-in-chief of Epicpoker.com, Michael Craig, said “Our team behind EpicPoker.com is aiming to raise the bar – for the standard of poker feature journalism and live-tournament poker coverage, in addition to the recognition for poker professionals as elite competitors with skills and charisma to capture the general public.” Integrating guest posts by the world’s best players, the site not only aims to shine light on the decorated unknowns, but to involve, encourage, and educate the new generation of aspiring poker stars. [read]

Photo courtesy of Epic Poker League.

[6.21.11]
World Series of Poker's November Nine Symbolizes Widespread Global Interest in Poker

The World Series of Poker’s (WSOP) final table of players, aptly named the November Nine for when they once again reconvene at the final table in Las Vegas in November at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, is definitively distinguished by the seven different nations in which they represent. Hailing from the United States, Belize, Czech Republic, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, and the Ukraine, the November Nine comprise different personalities, different cultures, and different styles of play, yet they all commenced on July 7th, along with 6,856 other players from 85 nations, to play for the game’s richest top prize – $8,711,956.

Through eight days of play, the members of the November Nine undoubtedly exhausted their energies day in and day out. Now – just for a little while – they can all breathe a sigh of relief as they now wrap their minds around the possibility and notion that “It could be me, the 2011 World Series of Poker Main Event Champion.”

The emerging champion will have their name mentioned and printed alongside his predecessors, many of whom are legends in the game, yet with the title comes an even greater responsibility. It’s carrying the prestige of the coveted title while utilizing the stage as a platform for advocating the legitimacy of poker that has undeniably surged in immense popularity and participation with the game’s global appeal.

Though forever bound by the November Nine group title, individually these players look to carve out prominence for their own name.  These perceptive players from vastly different backgrounds were bound by a common denominator, a common passion that breaks all language and cultural barriers; it is poker, a game unique to each person, and a game for people who come from all walks of life. From the formally educated to the self-taught, from the impoverished to the millionaires, from the old to the young, from one race to another, men and women, the poker arena is open to everyone and anyone who is willing to tackle the complexities of the game.

So, on November 5th, the November Nine, will once again find themselves on the very property that presented this opportunity to them just three months before. Hoping to recapture the momentum that propelled them through to the final table, the players should have already celebrated the fact that they’ve not only made a minimum of $782,115, but that they’ve also survived to be within the top 0.13% of the total starting entrants for the Main Event.
Together, the players that comprise the 2011 November Nine are a very special group, yet in just three months, they will each step out of the shadow of the group and sit down as individuals. While they don’t expect everyone to know or have witnessed their entire journey, they would hope that their achievement thus far in the WSOP Main Event will forever be reminisced and celebrated.   

Come November, it will be one of them. So remember: Martin Staszko, Eoghan O’Dea, Matt Giannetti, Phil Collins, Ben Lamb, Badih Bounahra, Pius Heinz , Anton Makiievskyi, and Sam Holden. While collectively they will always be known as the 2011 November Nine, only one name will emerge and be indelibly inked as the 2011 World of Series Main Event Champion.

[6.16.11]
World Series of Poker Keeps Kwan's Patience and Discipline in Check
by Henry Lee, MSNBC Newsvine

Figuratively speaking, United States National and World Champion boxer Christina Kwan’s gloves are on and her guard is up when she sits down at a poker table. Carrying over the mental toughness and discipline she has acquired through a brutally demanding physical sport, Christina applies many of the same lessons she’s learned from inside the boxing ring to her seat at the card table.  Every hand is a new round and every round is a mental regroup.

While at the poker’s grandest and richest stage where nearly $192 million in prize money is paid out, the World Series of Poker, annually held at the Rio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Kwan reports for double duty. She is representing her own global marketing and media company, Kwan International, as she reports on gaming results and insights from the series while also taking down pots as a player.  

The parallels of boxing and poker are endless. “Poker is a combination of analysis, strategy, mental assertion, and stamina. It’s everything that I’ve always had to implement in boxing. My opponents in either forum are trying to get inside my head and disrupt my thought process.  I stick to my plan and I don’t let them sway me,” says Kwan.

While the demographics of poker players are vast, Kwan undoubtedly brings a new dimension to the scene. Multi-faceted and creating success for herself on multiple platforms has made her an intriguing individual. Rattling off her credentials is no short list. Aside from achieving elite champion status as a boxer, the North American born Chinese is also a leading businesswoman as she operates her own company that makes the Las Vegas Motor Speedway its home.  She is an honors scholar from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV).  She is an entrepreneur who has a diverse gaming background. She is heavily involved in the motorsports industry as an elected board member on the Specialty Equipment Market Association’s (SEMA) Businesswomen’s Network, a motocross rider, and the driver of an 18 foot Challenger drag boat where she has built an engine that is capable of pushing 1,300 horsepower. Kwan most notably brought international awareness to the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) on ESPN while representing an 8,000 horsepower Nitro Funny Car.

A power packed resume, Kwan is the atypical representative of her involved roles. Standing 5’3” and just 100 pounds, she is confident and articulate, exuding an unforgettable presence and impression upon anyone she meets. While there are many talented players in the world of poker, Kwan brings a unique skill set to the table.   

“Many have said that my discipline from boxing has helped me in poker, but there’s no doubt that the lessons from poker have helped me in boxing.  Patience, every second counts and every decision counts,” says Kwan. “I’m around so many incredibly great, smart, and strong players in the game of poker. I am honored to play in the same arena as them.”

When asked if there are other boxers she would like to see in the poker world, smiling, she replied, “Sure, all of them.  This is a venue where weight divisions don’t matter. More than calling any boxers out, however, there are a few promoters and matchmakers that I’d like to have the opportunity to knock out.”

While balancing a life that is full of professional endeavors, Kwan has found success in poker.  Seen regularly playing tournaments including the exclusive Media Tournament at the WSOP, Kwan has made a consistent statement on her future in this game of skill.  As the month and a half long series concludes on the Rio floor, Kwan is elated to have participated in the event as both a player and as a representative of the media.  Look for her ending analysis of the series, including in-depth coverage of the November Nine final table, on this record breaking year for the WSOP at Kwan International.

[6.08.11]
GODADDY.COM Becomes Official Sponsor of 2011 WSOP

The World Series of Poker (WSOP) today announced GoDaddy.com as a new premier sponsor of the 42nd Annual World Series of Poker.

GoDaddy.com, the world’s largest Web hosting provider and domain name registrar, will be visible throughout the 2011 WSOP, both with on-site branding and television integration as the primary sponsor below the flop. 

For those unfamiliar with poker, all community cards dealt on a poker table are positioned in the middle of the felt.  GoDaddy.com has secured primary positioning just below these cards throughout all tournament action on televised tables, which is highly visible in all broadcasts of poker. 

“When you talk about GoDaddy.com, you are talking about some of the best marketers in the world, who are thoughtful about their platforms and selective in their promotional partnerships,” said WSOP Executive Director Ty Stewart.  “We know GoDaddy.com has a fun and edgy style and we welcome them into the greatest poker spectacle on the planet, which shares its personality.”

Go Daddy CEO & Founder Bob Parsons is the architect of the company’s incredibly effective advertising campaigns.  “We like this poker sponsorship because so many of the fans are passionate, loyal and interested in the Internet,” Parsons said. “We’re all in, baby!”

[6.02.11]
WSOP Announces $1 Million Tournament Buy-In Tournament Along With One of The Most Significant Charity Initiatives in Poker History

The World Series of Poker® (WSOP) announced today that it is adding a new $1 million buy-in poker tournament as part of the 43rd Annual World Series of Poker on July 1, 2012 to benefit ONE DROP, a non-governmental organization aiming to fight poverty worldwide by supporting access to water and raising each and every one’s awareness of water-related issues.

The BIG ONE for ONE DROP (TM) tournament is expected to generate one of the largest prize-pools in tournament poker outside the WSOP Main Event and award the winner millions of dollars and a specially-designed WSOP platinum bracelet.ONE DROP has received commitments from 15 participants thus far. They are: Guy Laliberté, Chair of ONE DROP and Founder of Cirque du Soleil; Bobby Baldwin, four-time WSOP gold bracelet winner and President & CEO City Center Group; Phil Ruffin, Owner, Treasure Island Resort, Las Vegas; poker professionals Patrik Antonius, Gus Hansen, Daniel Negreanu, Johnny Chan, Tom Dwan and Tony Guoga.  Quebec’s Casinos and a European group intends to offer satellites as well, plus a prominent businessmen will also join, in addition to Andy Beal.

Caesars also intends to offer two additional entries. One will go to the winner of a Mega Satellite, while the other will come from a yet to be determined promotion.

"We are proud to align the planet's premiere poker event with the foundation created by one of our generation's most creative entrepreneurs, Guy Laliberté, to help make the world a healthier place," said Gary Loveman, Caesars Entertainment Corporation's chairman, president and chief executive officer. [read]

[5.12.11]
Las Vegas Headliner Penn Jillette To Kick Off G2E 2011 As Opening Day Keynote Speaker

Penn Jillette – magician, comedian, author and the larger, vocal half of “Penn & Teller” – will energize gaming executives from around the globe when he kicks off Global Gaming Expo (G2E) 2011 as the keynote speaker. The premier trade show and conference event for the international gaming entertainment industry, G2E 2011 will take place Oct. 4-6 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas.

“We are thrilled to feature Penn Jillette as the opening day keynote speaker at G2E 2011,” said Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr., president and CEO of the American Gaming Association. “As one of Las Vegas’ most sought-after entertainers, Penn is sure to deliver a fun and exciting performance for all G2E attendees.” 

Jillette has been entertaining audiences for more than 35 years and currently appears nightly alongside his stage partner Teller at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. After graduating from high school in 1973, Jillette spent a year at Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Clown College before moving to San Francisco to team up with Teller and another friend to perform a musical magic show. Gaining popularity in the 1980s, Jillette and Teller took their two-man show Off-Broadway and won an Emmy Award after their first TV special, “Penn & Teller Go Public,” aired on PBS. Shortly after, the duo began the first of two successful Broadway runs.

Along with Teller, Jillette co-hosted “Penn & Teller: BS!” which aired on Showtime from 2003-2010 and also co-authored three best-selling books, “Cruel Tricks for Dear Friends,” “How to Play with Your Food” and “How to Play in Traffic.” Jillette serves as a visiting scholar at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and has lectured at Oxford University and the Smithsonian Institution. He also was the co-recipient of the Hugh M. Hefner First Amendment Award in 2001.

[5.09.11]
Caesars Entertainment Unveils Caesars Global Life Unit To Develop Non-Gaming Hotels and Restaurants

Caesars Entertainment Corporation today announced the creation of a new unit to develop branded luxury hotels, restaurants and other lifestyle amenities in resort destinations around the world.

The new unit, named Caesars Global Life, will pursue non-gaming hotel developments using the Caesars luxury brand and other brands owned by the company. Most of the developments will revolve around licensing, franchising and management agreements.

The primary objective of this new unit is to expand the company’s presence overseas, especially in Asia and Latin America, where Caesars is widely recognized for its luxury brand.

As part of the initiative, Caesars in March announced a partnership with world-renowned restaurateur Nobu Matsuhisa to develop a Nobu hotel and restaurant at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

In addition, the Global Life unit is expected to expand beyond the Caesars’ brand to include the development of boutiques and lifestyle brands on Caesars Entertainment-owned real estate in Las Vegas and Atlantic City.

For example, Caesars recently announced that it is opening four new restaurant concepts operated by BR Guest Hospitality, a leading New York-based restaurant company led by founder and President Stephen Hanson and owned by Starwood Capital Group. The new restaurants include Bill’s Bar & Burger, Dos Caminos, Atlantic Grill, and a casual restaurant featuring celebrity chef Sam DeMarco. Caesars also recently signed a non-binding letter of intent with New York-based entrepreneurs Rowen Seibel and Chris Barish to create a joint venture operating bars and lounges in Las Vegas and elsewhere. 

“Our brands and reputation are our most substantial assets overseas, and this plan will allow us to leverage them into growth opportunities in hospitality and gaming,” said Caesars Entertainment Chairman, CEO, and President Gary Loveman.

[5.08.11]
The Long Standing Sahara Hotel & Casino to Close May 16th.

The Sahara Hotel & Casino will be clos­ing its doors on May 16, 2011 but will remain fully operational until that time. All room reservations made prior to May 16 will be honored.

“We are working with our partners to assess a variety of options for the property, including a complete renovation and repositioning,” said Sam Nazarian, CEO of SBE Entertainment Group, which owns and operates the Sahara. “While no final decisions have been made at this point,” Nazarian said, “The continued operation of the aging Sahara was no longer economically viable.”

“We see the northern end of the Strip as the future of Las Vegas,” Nazarian said. “With Las Vegas showing early signs of recovery, we are confident that we ultimately will find a creative and comprehensive new solution for this historic property.”

Meanwhile, the hotel and casino will remain fully operational until May 16th. The Sahara will be honoring all room reservations and players’ club events until that time.

The Sahara has been working with MGM Resorts International on possible solutions for both customers and employees.

“SBE is fortunate to have a strategic relationship with MGM Resorts International. As a result, we will work together to try to find jobs for Sahara employees in cases where there are open positions in MGM Resorts’ properties,” added Nazarian. “We will also work with MGM Resorts to accommodate Sahara hotel and group customers with reservations following our closure.”

Additionally, Sahara’s human resources department will be working with team members through this transition. The Sahara also plans to offer sessions with Nevada Job Connect and provide career counseling.

“We sincerely appreciate the service and dedication shown by the many Sahara team members over the decades,’’ Nazar­ian said. “They have been the heart and soul of this iconic property. We thank them for their long­standing service.’’

A prime piece of land on Las Vegas Boulevard, there's no doubt an establishment will emerge from Sahara's closure that will prove to be a powerful brand and resort.

[4.23.11]
The World Series of Poker® Will Make Its Presence Known in Just Over One Month

Since the Final Table of the November Nine, the months in between the 2011 World Series of Poker (WSOP) have flown by. In a little over one month, the 58 bracelet event will be on the grounds of the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Around the clock, 24/7, poker players and their fans will be around the tables and navigating the halls of the venue.

In 2010, the total prize money awarded was an earth shattering $187,109,850. Players from 117 countries played in the 2010 WSOP. With the return of Jack Link's Beef Jerky as the event's presenting sponsor, players should be able to find the energy to keep going and going and going.

For the main event, players will be chasing down 2010 WSOP defending champion Jonathan Duhamel, the first Canadian to take down the prestigious title and $8,944,310. The defending $50,000 champion is Michael Mizrachi with a win of $1,559,046.

The 2011 WSOP is the breeding grounds of the next great poker superstar. The world awaits!

4.22.11]
Golden Tavern Group's Homer Gesmundo Puts A Sting in Jack Daniel’s Mixology Event at MGM’s Tabu

With the launch of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey Whiskey, the race to create unique drinks that incorporate the newly released and sweeter versioned liquor from the Jack Daniel’s family became the setting for the mixology competition and event at MGM’s Tabu Ultra Lounge. One of Las Vegas’ most colorful bar hosts, Homer Gesmundo, of the Golden Tavern Group’s Sierra Gold establishment, impressed Jack Daniel’s executives with his uniquely blended drink: The Bee’s Knees. 

Combining Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey Whiskey with Grand Marnier, Black Sambuca, fresh lime and lemon juice, and agave nector, Gesmundo topped off his drink with a garnish that incorporated black dyed ginger wrapped with a lemon twist – hence becoming the “bee” that is perched upon the rim of his specialty cocktail.  Chosen to be one of fourteen to compete at the MGM event, judges based their decision on several drink factors: appearance, aroma, overall taste, and overall presentation.  Organizer Dave Stewart said, “This competition shows the creativity and the craft of mixology in Las Vegas.”

A veteran of mixology and bartending competitions, Gesmundo was a top finalist chosen from the world’s best two years in a row at the annually held International Nightclub and Bar Convention and Tradeshow (NCB) in Las Vegas. He describes mixology as the “innovative way of taking ingredients you wouldn’t normally put together.” 

The first year that Gesmundo was announced as a finalist came courtesy of his Golden Dragon concoction. It combined Absolut Mango, Madarin Napoleon Liqueur, blood orange juice, fresh mangos, and his homemade ingredient, a mix of basil, mint, and kumquat organic simple syrup. The recipe garnered a fifth place finish in the international competition.
Exemplifying his style of marrying unlikely combinations, he recalls his Dilly Wabbit creation that drew acclaim during his second consecutive finals invite and appearance at NCB.  The drink recipe combined Plymouth Gin, Grand Marnier, Fee Brothers West Indian Bitters, fresh carrot juice, fresh Granny Smith apple juice, and fresh dill. The creation placed fourth in the competition. [read]

[2.19.11]
Hospitality Gets Its Own Social Network: Welcome to PineZapple.com

Hospitality insiders—including those in travel, lodging, food and beverage, meeting and events, gaming, entertainment and recreation, tourism services, and visitor information—can now create a professional profile, maintain a list of contacts, and invite others to join their list of industry connections.

"With downsizing, industry consolidation, and budget cutbacks, " says PineZapple President, Todd Kempinger, "there's no place for the hospitality industry to connect." In addition, traditional trade shows are becoming cost-prohibitive and ineffective. "Today's 'industry' conventions only link up small subsets of the available talent, insight, and innovation," continues Kempinger, "and big social networking sites don't have the focus and structure to be effective for the unique needs of today's uber-connected hospitality staffers."

PineZapple also offers a fun and effective way to search for jobs, business opportunities, people, events, news, take advantage of insider travel bargains, and much more.

With the increasing demands on hospitality professionals during these downturn times, the PineZapple community can connect, share, learn, and grow all within one easy to use online destination: PineZapple.com. [read]

[2.11.11]
Full Tilt Poker Launches Series España Online Qualifier Tournaments 2011

Beginning February 14th, Full Tilt Poker is giving players worldwide the opportunity to win their seats at the prestigious Full Tilt Poker Series – España.

Featuring a total of €1 million in prize money and drawing some of Europe’s best poker players, Series España is Spain’s top series of live tournament events.

Running over four events, tournaments are scheduled for venues across Spain, with the opening event taking place at the Gran Casino in Madrid from March 11th-13th.

Full Tilt Poker is holding exclusive online qualifier tournaments offering prize packages worth at least $3,200, including entry to a live Series España event. Online qualifier tournaments will take place at Full Tilt Poker on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 15:45 ET with buy-ins from $200 + $16. Players can also satellite their way into qualifier tournaments.

The top players in Series España events will qualify for one of four televised Masters Series events, Spain’s most exclusive poker series. The Masters Series features limited fields and a unique format that challenges players to show their skills in a variety of poker formats. [read]

[1.27.11]
Team Full Tilt’s Erik Seidel wins largest ever buy-in poker tournament

Erik Seidel continued his spectacular start to 2011 by winning the Aussie Millions AU$250K Super High Roller Event. Featuring a buy-in of AU$250,000 – the largest in history for a poker tournament – the recent Poker Hall of Fame inductee beat out a star-studded line-up, including fellow Team Full Tilt members Phil Ivey, John Juanda and Tom Dwan, to take down the first prize of AU$2.5 million (US$2.47 million).

Seidel’s biggest threat for the Super High Roller Event title came from the on-fire Sam Trickett – winner of the AU$100K Aussie Millions event earlier in the week. As heads-up play began, Trickett held over 80% of the five million chips on the table. However, Seidel fought back through a series of double ups and maintained the momentum after the chips stacks had evened out. The final hand saw Trickett check-raise all-in with As-Qh on a 3s-5h-9h flop. Seidel swiftly called with Jh-9c showing top pair, and two blanks followed giving the popular poker pro another prestigious title.

Seidel has been in great form since the turn of the year, winning over US$3.3 million in January alone. A fourth-place finish at the 2011 PCA High Roller Event – worth US$295K – was followed by a third-place finish in the AU$100K Aussie Millions tournament last week for a further US$618K. His latest AU$2.5 million (US$2.47 million) haul moves him up to third in the all-time career tournament money list, one place below Phil Ivey. [read]

President Clinton Visits Vegas to Deliver Resounding Keynote

Stability. Equality. Sustainability. The three words that were echoed throughout the speech made by the 42nd president of the United States, Bill Clinton, who was the keynote speaker at the International Market Center in Las Vegas.  Citing facts and figures that proved an accomplished administration while Clinton was in office, his keynote primarily focused on how the future of the nation could be upturned by correcting the issues of the present by learning from successes and failures of the past.

As the only Democrat to be elected to two consecutive terms in the past six decades, Clinton was forthright in pointing out how the nation certainly doesn't have any issues that it can't solve. He attributes the nation's current state of instability to have a detrimental effect on the minds of Americans. "Instability is good to a certain degree because it gives us incentive to work hard," said Clinton. "We need enough instability to promote creativity and hard work, but too much instability, as we have now, shuts down a nation."

The numbers don't lie. From a global perspective, Clinton quickly rattles off the current state of the world, "Half the world lives on less than two dollars a day. One hundred and thirty million kids never get to go to school.  A quarter of all people who die in the world die from tuberculosis, malaria, AIDS, and dysentery. These are all symptoms of poverty."

With the advancements of research and developments for finding ways to discover and to cure once terminal illnesses, Clinton says that it's truly "an exciting time to be alive." Yet, with so many Americans suffering from the financial and housing crisis that it may be asking too much for them to be excited about the positives. To this, Clinton, once again, relishes in the fact that the American public can be uplifted by believing in the promise of a better tomorrow only when financial institutions aren't clouded with mixed incentives on dealing with the consumers and the marketplace. In all areas of the public and the private sector, Clinton says that there is "too much inequality to create a fair consumer market."

In order to sustain a healthy economy, systems must be created and enforced. Since 1981, the United States has not been a self-sustaining country. Depending on debt issued by nations like China, Japan, and the United Kingdom, Clinton feels that the country needs to get back to a balanced state. "We are in debt to China for over $1 trillion and we are in debt to Japan for nearly $1 trillion," said Clinton. In the world of fair trade practices, Clinton raises the point of how difficult it is for a nation to dictate and enforce the terms of trade agreements and contracts with countries that the nation is currently indebted to.

If Clinton raised many questionable actions of the administrations that assumed power after his term in office, he nonetheless provided well thought out solutions based on his experiences and observations. "It's not the ‘what' but it's the ‘how'," said Clinton. How a solution is accomplished is even more important than simply achieving the goal. If one action is taken to solve an issue while creating a multitude of other issues, then the achievement can't be deemed a success. "We have to ask ourselves, ‘Will this course of action build up the positive forces and reduce the negative forces?'" said Clinton. Regardless of ideology, he is adamant that the most paramount action in creating and executing solutions is to have an organized way of thinking about the situation as a whole.

To have a brighter outlook for the future, he once again revisits his core terms for the revitalization of the United States as his keynote draws to a conclusion: Stability, equality, and sustainability. Clinton said, "We have to change how we live. Reuse. Renew. We have to think about how we produce and consume products."

After delivering a message that put the nation's current state in logical perspective, President Clinton's parting words provided solace with shining hope, "We don't have any problems that we can't deal with. We have more entrepreneurial people in this country. We are the most innovative. Throughout history, people have been betting against us, even before we became an independent nation, and every time, they have lost."

[7.04.11]
Miss BC Pageant Opens its Doors to Married Contestants

This past Canada Day weekend was also the culmination of months of hard work put together by 41 young women of British Columbia. The Miss BC pageant is an annual competition that celebrates young women, community, and charity. It takes place each year at the Chief Sepass Theatre in Fort Langley, British Columbia.  With girls from all different backgrounds, the diversity of the contestants was a perfect showcase of what makes up the multicultural country of Canada.

Each of the contestants are encouraged to hold a fundraiser before the competition weekend in an effort to raise money for the Cops For Cancer / Canadian Cancer Society charities. This year, the total amount raised was $21, 205!

A few years back, the pageant courted controversy when it allowed single mothers into the program. Most pageants would not have permitted this, but leave it to Miss BC to change up the world of pageants yet again proving that this is not your typical beauty pageant! This year, the show introduced two new categories: Mrs BC and Mrs Lower Mainland – to be more inclusive of contestants who are married! Again, this gave an opportunity to women who may not have been able to participate in other pageants to have an experience of a lifetime!

“It's not who you are that holds you back, it's who you think you are not," says Cheryl Dietrich of North Vancouver, winner of the overall Miss BC 2011 title.  She hopes to help other young woman out there feel like they are “amazing, worthy, and enough.”  

The Miss BC Pageant is a developmental program for young women. Each contestant received professional training in areas such as modeling, stage presence, manners and etiquette, self-esteem, interview skills, public speaking, self-defense, and assertiveness.

[2.17.11]
Napa Technology Announces Universal Design Module For WineStation Unit; Enhanced Product Provides 'Try Before You Buy' Access To All

Napa Technology, designer and manufacturer of the WineStation, an intelligent wine dispensing and preservation solution, today announced the launch of its new product, The Accuserve Smartcard Universal Design Module.

"We strive to provide our customers and partners with the solutions that will enhance their business and achieve their goals," states Morris Taradalsky, Vice President of Engineering and Support. "This design advancement creates lap-level access to all the features of the WineStation, including easy to read LCD screens and the AccuServe Smartcard reader."

The AccuServe Smartcard Universal Design Module is adaptable to any WineStation model currently on the market and most recently installed at the Marriott Hanover in Whippany, New Jersey, The Hotel Minneapolis in Minneapolis, and Harris Teeter Grocery Stores in Reston, Virginia.

By installing the WineStation, Harris Teeter is at the leading edge of one of the key grocery store trends. Increasingly, grocery and other retail environments are providing consumers with a 'try before buy' wine experience.

The recent installs of the cutting edge and customized WineStation preservation and pouring system will allow customers to sample some of the world's finest wines by the glass but also permit Harris Teeter to stay a step ahead in customer service by tailoring the varietals, price points and labels to the anticipated needs of their customers. [read]

[2.17.11]
Macmillan Cancer Support Announces Charity Football Match

Macmillan Cancer Support has announced that a host of popular Emmerdale and Coronation Street stars are heading for the football pitch on Saturday 19th February for an all-star match which aims to raise over GBP20,000 for the UK's leading cancer care charity. Kicking off at 1pm at Manchester Regional Arena, the match will see the stars compete for The Gavin Blyth Memorial Cup in memory of their colleague, TV producer Gavin Blyth who died of cancer in November, aged 41.

Gavin spent eight years working on the two soaps, starting at Emmerdale in 2002 as the shows senior publicist before moving to Coronation Street in 2005 where he was Assistant Producer. Gavin returned to Emmerdale in 2009 as series producer, creating exciting new characters and storylines that resulted in a massive upsurge in viewers.

The Emmerdale team captain and event organiser Danny Miller, who plays troubled teen Aaron Livesy, said: "Gavin Blyth was an inspirational and passionate producer. But not only that, he was a fantastic man, father, mentor, and friend who was like a brother to me and so many others. He's left a giant hole at Emmerdale so we want to remember Gavin by having a match against the lads from Coronation Street which should be a great day celebrating his life, and raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support. The ground can hold 3,000 people and we want every seat filled to cheer us on, and to help a fantastic charity that does so much to help people affected by cancer. Naturally, Emmerdale is going to win." [read]

[2.17.11]
CLEAR Institute Donates $1,000s to National Scoliosis Foundation Fundraiser

Dr. Clayton Stitzel, former co-director of the CLEAR Institute (a non-profit scoliosis research think tank), was a primary speaker at the "Sound for Scoliosis" National Scoliosis Foundation fund raiser on November 7, 2010 at the Vintage Theatre at 222 Wyoming Avenue in Scranton, Pennsylvania. The fund raiser is in its second year and coordinators report the event has already doubled in size.

Sound for Scoliosis is a yearly multi-venue festival of food, drink, music and silent auction held the weekend of November 5 through 7 in Scranton, Pennsylvania spanning nine venues. Tickets to each venue are $5.00 or a hopper pass is available for $10.00. Sound for Scoliosis is endorsed by the National Scoliosis Foundation which received all of the donations. Other speakers at the event are Joe O'Brien, President and CEO National Scoliosis Foundation; Dr. Dan Golazewski, chiropractor and owner of Power Chiropractic; and Lucia Peregrim, Owner and Founder of Sound for Scoliosis.

Scoliosis occurs when the spine of the back forms a C or an S shaped curve. Scoliosis affects 2 to 3 percent of the population (an estimated 6 million people worldwide) and there is no cure. Scoliosis impacts infants, adolescents, and adults worldwide. The primary age of onset for scoliosis is 10 to 15 years old, and the condition affects more females than males. Females are more likely to progress to a curve magnitude that requires treatment. Scoliosis can impact the quality of life with limited activity, pain, reduced respiratory function or diminished self-esteem. [read]

[9.22.11]
Forty Years of Barrett Jackson is Celebrated in Las Vegas

Barrett Jackson breathes tradition and prestige and the cars that make their way into their events are no different. Known for bringing some of the most rare and exotic cars to their stages, car enthusiasts gather at the Mandalay Bay this week for Barrett Jackson’s year ending event to observe, admire, and to buy vehicles that span generations.

After the Orange County auction where a 1963 Volkswagen 23 Window Bus sold for an astounding $217,800, even more buses have arrived in Las Vegas and will sit on the auction block for thirsty buyers. Among them are a 1961, a 1962, and three 1966 buses.

On a quick recap of unique cars that sold today, a beautiful yellow 1923 Ford Model A that was acquired for $49,500; a 1956 Porsche 356 Speedster Re-creation for $26,400; a 1932 Ford 5-window coupe for $30,250; and a 1968 Chevrolet Camaro SS for $44,000.

[8.31.11]
CorkSport Mazda Performance Announces New CorkSport Mud Flaps for the Mazdaspeed 6

Adding to the success of our Mazdaspeed 3 and Mazda 3 Mud Flaps, CorkSport would like to announce an expansion of the CorkSport Mazdaspeed Styling product line with the launch of the all new CorkSport Mazdaspeed 6 urethane mud flaps. 

Designed specifically for the Mazdaspeed 6, the CorkSport Mud Flaps offer superior protection against the elements, road debris and high impact rocks that are kicked-up by your tires while providing a streamlined sport look. 

The popular CorkSport Mud Flap line is constructed from 80A durometer 1/8" thick urethane and includes a CorkSport logo laser-etched directly into the mud-flap that will never fade or wear off in even the most extreme elements. The adjustable design allows customers to install the rears to match the height of the vehicle and includes a template giving you the option to trim them to your liking. 

Unlike rally style mud flaps, these mud flaps are a sleek 10" at the widest point on the backs and 8 1/2" on the fronts providing your vehicle the optimum level of protection while maintaining a sport style design.

Demonstrating CorkSport's mission to offer unparalleled service to the Mazda enthusiasts and support every make and model of the Mazda line, this is yet another product offering CorkSport has designed with the Mazdaspeed 6 in mind. The CorkSport Mud Flaps represent just one of the many products that are set to release in the coming months to support the Mazdaspeed 6. 

The CorkSport Mazdaspeed 6 Mud Flaps will be offered competitively at $119.00 and include full color installation instructions, all of the needed installation hardware, and a template for customized trimming of the rear's to accommodate the ride height of each individual vehicle.

[8.25.11]
QA1 Acquires Edelbrock's Suspension Product Line

Edelbrock sells its suspension product line to QA1. This acquisition by QA1 will add over a 100 part numbers to their already extensive shock absorber, spring and tubular suspension product offering.

Edelbrock added suspension products in 1994 with a limited line of components for Camaro and Mustang applications. Since then, the product line has grown to include; anti-hop bars, k-member braces, panhard rods, strut tower braces, sub-frame connectors, sway bars, toe links, torque and trailing arms, along with a variety of other products for popular muscle car and late-model applications.

"These suspension products will be a great addition to QA1's current line and will give their customers a larger selection high quality components to choose from", states Edelbrock Chairman, Vic Edelbrock. "We are also proud that these products will continue to be manufactured in the USA."

This acquisition will include all manufacturing equipment, raw materials, current and future product designs as well as any existing inventory. All of these components will transition to QA1 on September 1, 2011.

[8.21.11]
Southern Women's Automotive Forum Second Regional Conference to Focus on Breaking Barriers

The Southern Automotive Women's Forum will convene its second Southeast regional conference to discuss strategies to advancement and offer success stories to help women move forward in the highly competitive automotive industry. This year's conference will be held Friday, August 26, 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. CDT at the Sheraton Nashville Hotel in downtown Nashville.

Opening speaker for the conference is Linda Reichart Macht, president and CEO of Tottser Tool & Manufacturing in Pennsylvania, and President of Tottser-Iroquois Industries located in La Vergne, Tennessee. Tottser-Iroquois is a joint venture with locations in PA, TN and MI. They will soon open a new Southern facility to meet the needs of our existing customers and to broaden its reach to the automotive sector in the Southeast region.

A special feature of the conference are the panel discussions: "The New "Brand" of Workers and What We Can Learn From Them," "Success Achieved Through Branding - Women in Automotive, Personal and Professional Strategies," and "The Brand New Type of Leader."
These panels are designed to arm women with strategies to surmount barriers to advancement.

Susan Brennan SAWF president, and vice president of Manufacturing at Nissan, noted,
"We are very enthusiastic about this conference, our guest participants and the opportunity to address the issues to help women overcome barriers in the automotive industry. This conference is designed to build on the great success SAWF enjoyed last year."

Panelists for this program include: Cherie McCain, BMW; Tonja Cochran, Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc.; Theresa Plonkey, Area Manager, General Motors; and Angie Rehkop, Georgia Automotive Manufacturers Association Board Member. 

[8.19.11]
Creative FX-wrapped Skoda Breaks 200mph Barrier

A Skoda Octavia vRS, wrapped by signage specialist, Creative FX, and driven by automotive journalist, Richard Meaden, at Bonneville Speed Week, has broken the record for fastest ever Skoda, after recording a speed of 202.15mph.

The 500BHP Skoda Octavia vRS became one of the few cars to break the 200mph barrier, and the first Skoda ever, on Monday 15th August at Bonneville Speed Week in Utah, America.

The record-breaking car was sporting a special '10' silver and green livery as it entered the history books. Produced and installed by vehicle wrapping specialist, Creative FX, the livery marks the tenth anniversary of the vRS range and 110 years of Skoda's participation in motorsport.

Robert Hazlewood, Director for Skoda UK, says: "Months of rigorous planning, testing and preparation have all been worthwhile. The entire team has done a fantastic job. Our thanks go out to Richard on an incredible drive."

The Octavia vRS used is a factory-built model, which has been specially modified for this race. As well as lowering the ride height and increasing break horsepower from 200 to 500BHP; the car had to include a reinforced roll cage, parachute, fire extinguishers and window cage, to meet Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) regulations.

Bonneville Speed Week, which is held near Salt Lake City every August, consists of six days of racing on salt flats. Its spectacular scenery and racing conditions make it one of the most popular speed events in the world.

During the three remaining days of speed week, the team will now focus on beating the 2.0 litre production car record of 216mph.

[7.21.11]
ATC Campus Helps Students Capitalize on Automotive Industry Job Growth

The Automotive Training Centre (ATC), a leading automotive training college, is helping students capitalize on the post-recession rebirth of the Canadian automotive industry with a state-of-the-art campus in Surrey BC.

The Canadian automotive industry is the sixth largest on the planet, accounting for 25% of the country’s exports. Nevertheless, the economic downturn, accelerated automation and global warming have posed tough challenges, and in 2009, new car sales and industry jobs decreased. The industry, however, has since bounced back, and Canada’s share of North American light-vehicle production is now at an all-time high.

The rejuvenated strength of the industry’s biggest players, coupled with technological advances and the looming retirement of baby boomers, point to very bright job prospects in many segments of the auto industry. “New vehicle sales are also up a few percentage points over last year, so the economics and employment opportunities are there,” says ATC director Zyg Strecha.

To help students prepare for these tremendous career opportunities, ATC opened its newest campus last year in Surrey, BC. Situated on two acres of land, the centrally located campus boasts over 15,000 square feet of cutting edge training facilities. The campus’ repair shop features six large modern classrooms and provides students with seven bays, four hoists, a modern scanner for vehicle diagnostics and emissions testing, welding equipment, alignment hoists and more. On the auto body side, the campus offers five bays, a modern paint booth and mixing room and much more.

[7.20.11]
New Open Source Initiative for Automotive Software Development Tools

The Eclipse Foundation announces the creation of a new open source initiative to define and implement a standard platform for the software development tools used in the automotive industry. German carmaker BMW Group, the automotive suppliers Robert Bosch GmbH and Continental AG, and the Eclipse Strategic Member itemis AG from Lünen, Germany are founding members of the initiative that will operate as an Eclipse Industry Working Group. The new Eclipse Automotive Industry Working Group will be open to any organizations that want to participate in the goal of establishing a standard tools platform that will be used throughout the automotive supply chain.

Innovation in the automotive industry is mostly achieved by electronics and software functions. The system automobile is becoming increasingly complex, an open developer tool workbench that extends throughout the supply-chain is becoming a must for the industry. Improvements and innovations to these software development tools are required to accelerate product development, create high quality software features and improve integration across the automotive supply chain.

“BMW uses standards such as AUTOSAR, Flexray or Genivi in the development of automotive software. It is a necessary condition for BMW, that the tool chain supports these standards. We believe that tools based on Eclipse are an efficient way to reduce gaps in the tool chain. It can be very helpful if Eclipse-based tools can not only be used as a stand-alone tool but also as integrated components in a larger environment. The interoperability between the different Eclipse plug-ins from tool vendors can accelerate the development process.” 

"Eclipse is a de-facto standard in the field of developing software development tools (for example ARTOP) and as integrated development environment for programming automotive software. Therefore, a unified Eclipse platform is to be agreed on by all participants in the EAIWG. For this reason, the future participation of tool manufacturers in the EAIWG is absolutely necessary. A single platform can reduce internal costs and accelerate cross-company development processes. BMW will use the Eclipse platform developed by the Working Group as a strategic development environment," says Ignacio Garro, Head of IT PLM Systems and Software at Continental Automotive.

He continues, “Creating a standard platform for automotive tools will help us to faster innovate without compromising quality,” explains Harald Mackamul, Senior Expert, Corporate Sector Research and Advance Engineering, Robert Bosch GmbH. “Collaborating with an open source community will allow us to share the costs and best practices for building new tools with other companies in the automotive industry. We see this open innovation as the future for our software tools strategy.”

“While we bundle forces to create the platform that we need, we provide a platform to our tools vendors that they can use to seamlessly integrate their products in our workbench. In addition, the Eclipse Public License enables us to modify and extend the platform to our needs!”

The Automotive Industry Working Group will operate under the Eclipse Foundation, an open source Foundation that specializes in software development tools and runtime. Eclipse Industry Working Groups allow organizations to collaborate on the development of new technology innovation. The results of the working group will be made available under the Eclipse Public License (EPL), a commercial friendly open source license.

[5.18.11]
S-Network Launches New Global Automotive Index (AUTOS)

S-Network Global Indexes LLC announces the launch of a new index that tracks the performance of the global automotive industry: The S-Network Global Automotive IndexSM (Ticker: AUTOS). Live intraday calculation of the index begins today May 18, 2011. Daily closing values are available from December 31, 2005.

Richard Phillips, Senior Index Analyst of S-Network, said, “AUTOS is designed to serve as a fair and transparent measure of the performance of the global automotive industry. This index comes to the market as international vehicle sales continue to rebound and several automotive manufacturers have recently posted strong profits.”

The modified capitalization weighted, float-adjusted index incorporates 50 constituents engaged in the automotive industry. To be included in the index a company must generate over 50% of gross revenues from the primary automobile industry. The index is rules-based.

[4.25.11]
DuPont Opens Automotive Center in China

DuPont today announced the opening of the DuPont Automotive Center to provide “one-stop” design and application development services for the rapidly growing China automotive market.

Located at the DuPont China Research & Development Center in Shanghai, the facility further enhances the network of global automotive application development centers designed to strengthen the industry’s ability to collaborate on ways to reduce dependence of fossil fuel. Developing markets – including China – represented 32 percent of DuPont’s total sales in 2010. Sales in developing markets grew 30 percent in first quarter 2011.

“Technology and materials will be critical to the continuous development of the automotive industry in China,” said Tony Su, president of DuPont Greater China at the opening ceremony of the center. “This new automotive center provides a platform for our customers to access the integrated capabilities of our company and allows us to collaborate more closely with our customers to address challenges as well as growth opportunities in the automotive market.”

The DuPont Automotive Center contains three functional laboratories, encouraging collaboration with experienced application-development teams from DuPont’s businesses and drawing from more than 100 innovations and products to develop new ideas for safer, more fuel-efficient and more comfortable vehicles.

“This is a pivotal time in the automotive industry. With more than 3 billion vehicles forecast to be on the road by 2035 – many of which will be made and sold in China – congestion, emission, passenger and pedestrian safety are paramount,” said Diane H. Gulyas, president – DuPont Performance Polymers. “We, as an industry, must move faster to implement new technologies for the benefit of our environment, for ourselves and for future generations. We can only meet this challenge by working together on science-powered innovation to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy and vehicle safety while meeting consumer demands.”

[12.07.11]
A New Venue for the Adult Entertainment Expo Separates It From the Consumer Electronics Show

Each year, Consumer Electronics Show (CES) attendees are familiar with the other convention that runs simultaneously at the same venue, the Adult Entertainment Expo (AEE). A stark contrast in attire, AEE attendees can be readily distinguishable from CES attendees. However, for 2012, AEE comes to Las Vegas on January 18-21, beginning a few days after the end of CES. In addition, AEE will be presented at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino instead of the Sands Expo Center.

While most may view AEE as just a good time expo, the adult entertainment industry is a giant in the business world that also ironically can become a taboo subject. Marketing and generating a postiive bottom line are the same goals of both the adult industry as it is for any business in operation today. Seminars that adress zoning laws, social media and health and safety standards are just a few of the information sessions that will be presented to the industry.

The concensus from last year's expo was that piracy was draining the profitability of film production companies. A common issue amongst music labels and major motion film companies, the adult entertainment industry is not immune to the widespread ability of consumers to download material at will through file sharing programs. It remains to be seen how the industry has been able to tackle this issue. Perhaps in 2012, new innovations will be able to offset these losses.

[11.20.11]
New Snowboard / Ski Goggles Launched by Dragon Alliance

With winter in full force in many parts of the country, Dragon Alliance is helping snowboarders and skiers get ready for outdoor adventures with its new line of snowboard and ski goggles. This line, dubbed Advanced Performance X (APX), focuses on technical innovation and smart design. The most technically advanced goggle ever offered by the company, the APX is a product of a design philosophy focused on technical innovation, minimalism, and premier quality.

"For several seasons now, we've been a leader in snow goggle technology for snowboarders and skiers alike," says founder Will Howard. "We've taken the time to connect with snowboarders and other winter sports athletes, talking with them one-on-one so we can help them perform better in the sports they love. Snow goggles were a natural extension of our motocross goggles and performance sunglasses lines."

Among the numerous technological innovations included in the APX line are armored frame ventilation, integrated dual lens ventilation, and an anti-fog treated inner lens. These technologies combine to improve visual clarity when outdoors in colder climates and eliminate a common source of frustration among winter sports enthusiasts.

"Fogging can be a big concern both in terms of performance and safety," notes Mr. Howard. "The strategically placed ventilation systems on the APX goggle combine with an anti-fog lens coating for greater visibility in any number of challenging environments. Our advanced design also enables maximum peripheral vision with Infinity Lens Technology, which completely eliminates the frame profile. The APX goggle is our flagship product and is redefining expectations about what a goggle can and can't do."

Committed to developing its APX line, Dragon opened a research and development cabin at a 12,000 foot elevation in the San Juan Mountains in Colorado. At the cabin, product testers are able to try the goggles in a variety of technically demanding conditions. Their feedback went into product refinements that help the goggles perform better in harsh weather. The company's objective is to test its products in the harshest conditions possible so that its customers can feel confident in their gear regardless of the conditions or situation.

"Of course we're excited about the technical features of these goggles, the ones that help them perform better on the slope, course or trail," adds Mr. Howard. "But we also paid a lot of attention to the fit and ease of use. This is our first goggle that uses triple layer face foam with microfleece lining for better comfort during long-term wear. And we've made lens interchangeability as simple as possible, while still ensuring a sealed thermal boundary between both lenses for the protection a user really needs. The APX line is turning a lot of heads and is going to be the goggle of choice this winter season."

[11.18.11]
Professional Marathon Runner Uses Runtastic's Windows Phone 7 App To Train For The 2012 Olympic Games

Günther Weidlinger, the fastest man of Austria, qualified himself for the 2012 Olympic Games with a time of 2:12:23 in the Frankfurt Marathon on October 30th. To stay in shape for the Olympic Games 2012, he is working out with the help of the runtastic Windows Phone 7 App (http://www.runtastic.com) at the moment. The runtastic app supports Günther in optimizing his training and also increases his motivation for the Olympic Games in London. Not only Günther, but also many other athletes all over the world prefer runtastic as their personal coach for races.

On October 30, 3-time Olympian and 8-time Austrian national record holder Günther Weidlinger ran the Frankfurt Marathon in 2:12:23, qualifying him for the 2012 Olympic games in London. 

To optimize his training performance leading up to the Olympic Games, Günther uses an advanced mobile fitness application developed by runtastic. The Windows Phone 7 app, jointly developed by Günther and the runtastic team, tracks training routes via GPS and displays them in real-time along with data on distance covered, pace, calories, altitude and related measurements. The runtastic voice coach then sends this information to Günther's headphones to provide instant feedback throughout his training sessions.

The runtastic live-tracking feature enables friends, fans and fellow athletes to follow Günther during training sessions in real-time via their fitness portal or major social networks. With the help of runtastic's live cheering feature, followers can motivate him by sending cheers directly to his phone during a session. Leading up to the Frankfurt Marathon, Günther received hundreds of cheers from fans around the world encouraging him to maximize his training intensity while maintaining his motivation. 

After completing a training session, Günther and his coach have instant access to performance data and advanced statistics through the runtastic fitness portal. They can then analyze training results, plan future sessions and track performance against training plans. 

By combining advanced mobile capabilities with online performance reporting and analysis tools, professional athletes like Günther Weidlinger as well as fitness enthusiasts around the world are adopting runtastic as the preferred personal training companion.

[11.02.11]
Rock 'N Run to Take Place in Bali Next Month

Bali is set to play host to the annual Rock 'N Run charity race, which has been organized to raise money for people in need of harelip and cleft palate surgery.

This year's 5 kilometer run is due to take place on Sunday November 27th, with participants aiming to "bring a smile to those unfortunate children afflicted with this facial disfigurement,"organizer the Hard Rock Hotel Bali explained in a statement.

The challenge is scheduled to commence at 6:30 local time from the hotel, with registration opening one hour before the start.

Eager runners can put their names down for the 5 kilometer race by heading to the Hard Rock Hotel in Kuta between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM each day until the day before the event.

This year marks the 11th occasion that Rock 'N Run has been held, with 2009's charity run seeing more than 350 people turn out to raise money.

In previous years, funds have been distributed via the Rotary Club of Bali's Seminyak branch to assist the Rumah Senyum 'Smile House' organization.

[10. 21.11]
Sno Life Opens its Doors to Flurries of Snow Sport Enthusiasts

Sno Life, a winter layering and apparel company for snow sport enthusiasts, has officially opened its doors for business this year. The company provides men's, women's and children's quality apparel both online and in select retail locations across the nation. Sno Life is also proud to announce that all their products are manufactured in the United States of America.

"We love everything about winter especially the lifestyle that goes with it. Our products reflect this particular way of life, as nothing says winter like adding layers to keep your snug and warm," said Emily Coleman, Vice President of Sno Life. 

Sno Life provides customers different styles and products such as: long and short sleeve tees, tanks, tops, dri-fit, polos, hoodies/fleece, headwear (hats, beanies, visors) and accessories. They carry the latest fashions and layering options for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, ice climbing and much more. Their style allows the consumer to add layers with comfort, ensure move-ability while staying warm. No matter what the winter activity, Sno Life has something to offer. 

The company also sponsors talented athletes in the snow-sport community ranging from ages 9 to 36, and is always looking for great people with "Xtreme" talent for their team. "We are always looking for talented athletes to participate in our Sno Life Team Sponsorship Program," said Coleman.

[10.12.11]
MPORA | GEAR Launches To The Worlds Biggest Action Sports Online Audience

Mpora.com, the world's largest digital Action Sports platform today launches Mpora | Gear to its 4 Million monthly users at Mpora.com/gear.

Mpora | Gear is the first scalable single platform that enables users to find, compare and share tens of thousands of action sports products. The website, part of Mpora.com, includes advanced user reviewing capability and the functionality to compare, and buy directly from, some of the world's best online retailers.

Mountain Bike and Road Cycling are the first two markets to be featured on Mpora | Gear, however Winter Sports will follow shortly in 2011.

Mpora 'Experts' are already in their hundreds - the platform's loyal following of enthusiasts who are committed to reviewing, testing and discussing the latest products in the market. And more will be joining the project as Independent Retailers and enthusiastic amateurs sign up to become Mpora | Gear reviewers. Alongside this, editorial teams from nineteen of the worlds best action sports magazine brands will be feeding in their own opinions on the latest gear to hit the markets.

The site's ethos is to present action sports fans with the most comprehensive selection of sports product in the world, and deliver it in an environment that it is easy to use, shareable with their friends, and provides the most useful shopping tool available by gathering professional and amateur reviews to facilitate the best buying experience possible.

Darryl Newton, Managing Director of Factory Media who own Mpora.com stated: 'Mpora | Gear is a natural development for Factory Media in our strategy of servicing the needs of our audiences and advertisers. The action sports market is driven by a passion for great product to improve their participation and experience, and Mpora fans love talking about the latest and best gear out there as much as they love watching amazing videos.

[12.27.11]
RIM Needs to Bounce Back in 2012

With continued declining sales, Research in Motion (RIM), needs to quickly figure out how they will compete in one of the fastest changing industries today. Known for their expertise in business management tools and features, RIM continues to find themselves struggling for a piece of the device market.

In their latest release, RIM introduces Blackberry Mobile Conferencing 2.0, an enhancement upon their previous mobile conferencing software. The free app includes enhancements such as the ability to automatically turn an email thread into a conference call using the user's conference bridge details. It automates tedious and error prone tasks associated with conference calling such as dialing into a conference call that includes multiple main numbers, and conference ID among other codes. The 2.0 software includes a "Join Now" prompt that wil automatically dial in as well as quickly reconnect should there be a disconnect.

"Blackberry Mobile Conferencing is an essential app for anyone who sets up or joins conference calls," said Tom Goguen, vice president, collaboration and social networking at RIM. "This latest version of Blackberry Mobile Conferencing includes a number of enhancements such as the ability to turn any email thread into a conference call automatically, making it even easier for Blackberry users to get things done."

The new features that are included in Blackberry Mobile Conferencing 2.0 are:

• Turn an Email Thread into a Conference Call: With a few clicks, all parties within an email thread are automatically included in the conference invite.
• Automatic Detection of Conference Call Details: Conference call information found in a meeting invite on the calendar is automatically stored with the dial in information.
• Conference Call ID: Users can easily keep track of the conference calls they've participated in. When calls are completed, the conference calls are stored in the call log.
• Conference Profiles Increased to a 10: Users can add preset conference call details to almost any meeting they schedule by selecting from up to ten stored profiles.
• Private Moderator Codes: Invites that are sent using a preset conference profile include just the information that participants need to join the call.

It's hard to dispute the advancements of RIM that greatly enhance the efficiency of the business world, yet in moving forward, more innovations need to rapidly take place in order for them to start rising against their competition.

[12.26.11]
CES 2012 Brand Keynote Panel Full of Global Leaders

To be the best, learn from the best. CES 2012's Brand Keynote Panel will feature high level global executives from today's top global brands. The panel will feature: AT&T's David Christopher, General Electric's Beth Comstock, Facebook's Carolyn Everson, Walmart's Stephen Quinn, Hyundai's Steve Shannon and Unilever's Keith Weed.

"These esteemed keynote panelists are from leading corporate brands that embody the true spirit of innovation," said Karen Chupka, senior vice president, events and conferences, CEA. "We are thrilled to welcome these marketing leaders to the CES keynote stage and look forward to hearing their visions on global brand strategy."

Taking place on January 11 in the Las Vegas Hilton Theater, the esteemed panel will give some of the most notable perspectives and advice on defining and executing an effective global brand strategy. The keynote wil be moderated by Michael Kassan, chairman and CEO of MediaLink LLC.

[12.24.11]
Nixeus Technology Unveils Nixeus Fusion XS Network Media Player

Nixeus Technology introduces the latest addition to its line of next generation multimedia players, the Nixeus Fusion XS Network Media Player. Featuring the Marvell ARMADA 1000 as the company's chipset provider, this multimedia player is equipped with a dual-core processor and Qdeo video/image post processing. 

The Nixeus Fusion XS is designed to playback digital movies, photos and music directly to a TV. Once connected to a local network, the multimedia player allows users to surf the Internet and access their favorite Web sites, as well as access their own media files from an external hard drive or any network shared computer. In addition, users can playback movies in full HD in 1080p resolution or listen to music while browsing family photos on the TV.
The Nixeus Fusion XS Network Media Player features the following:

• Marvell 88DE3010 Dual Core Processor @ 900MHz
• Google Android 2.2 Operating System
• Supports development and installation of third party software and Android applications
• Built-in Web browser with HTML5 and Adobe Flash Support
• Wide comprehensive file format support

"The Nixeus Fusion HD was so well-received as our premier multimedia player, we're really looking forward to introducing the next product in our lineup," stated Tony Diep, vice president of sales and marketing, Nixeus Technology. "By incorporating the award-winning Marvell ARMADA 1000 chipset and Android OS into the Fusion XS, we're confident the entertainment experience will be enhanced like never before."

[12.24.11]
SPAMfighter Reveals Pricing for Windows Server Anti-Virus Software

Microsoft Gold Partner SPAMfighter ApS has set an aggressive limited-time pricing for its VIRUSfighter Server anti-virus software as they aim to have the lowest price on the market for any anti-virus software made for Windows servers. An easy-to-use software, VIRUSfighter protects against malware including viruses, trojans and root kits while securing critical data for any company. The Virus Bulletin awarded VIRUSfighter with a VB100 award in comparative tests.

While pricing for one license for a Windows server from other vendors are typically $150-200 with less expensive software that leaves out necessary features, VIRUSfighter is offering a 90% discount off of its $199 price to $19.95 until March 31, 2012.

Henrik Sorensen, SPAMfighter ApS CEO, said, "In this current economic climate, many companies are struggling. We think this aggressive pricing sends a signal to the market; we want to help companies still be able to secure their critical data against potentially devastating malware threats. We are pleased to be able to provide such a competitive and highly-praised product at an unbeatable price."

[12.21.11]
LifeShield Security Debuts Free LifeView App for Android Tablets, Smartphones and the Apple iPhone

LifeShield Security extends the availability of its free LifeView app beyond the Apple iPad, to include Android tablets and smartphones, as well as the Apple iPhone, so customers can fully manage their LifeShield home security system from their preferred mobile device. 

LifeView's new sleek and sophisticated portal enables total interactivity with the LifeShield home security system through a simple interface with cool graphics and instinctual navigation that allows users of all ages to easily manage their home security system from their iPad, iPhone, Android tablet or Android smartphone. 

"Smartphones and tablets have become increasingly popular among consumers who enjoy the obvious benefits to managing the details of life on the go. Our enhanced application opens the door for iPhone, tablet and smartphone users to fully control their LifeShield system from their portable or handheld device," said Lou Stilp, Founder and COO, LifeShield Security. "This is the same app we recently announced to the Apple iPad community - so it delivers the same superior user interface that attaches to the customer and not their house. There is no other home security company that offers as many functions in a single application as the LifeView app." 

Customers can download the LifeView app for the iPad and iPhone from the Apple App Store. Android tablet and smartphone versions can be found through Android Market.

Within the LifeView app, users manage their system via the Console Tab that's color-coded, easy to read and shows the status of every sensor and device for the entire system - whether a window is up or a door is open - and users can view the 20 most recent events instantly. If a user has cameras installed, the LifeView app will also take snapshots when the app is launched so the user can instantly view current images from every camera installed throughout the home. 

LifeView's user interface also allows customers to log in to access every LifeShield system setting. In addition to the Console Tab, users can access the Camera Tab for all pictures and videos, as well as the ability to view live video, and the History Tab to scan the last 90 days of history.

Users can also arm the system with one touch and quickly disarm the system via user code, create new event notifications and camera triggers, and add or remove users any time.

[12.21.11]
On Demand Technologies Releases New App for iPad

On Demand Technologies has released an app for the iPad that enables sales representatives to create custom documents and presentations with just a few screen taps.

The app seamlessly accesses information in a corporate datastore to dynamically create client-specific content. In addition, the data-driven content is created in real time, meaning that documents are always up-to-date. The app handles the presentation of content automatically, and does not use or require the installation of KeyNote, PowerPoint, or any other app to function.

The solution was successfully rolled out for use by a Fortune 100 company over the past weeks and will be used nationally among thousands of sales representatives.

"We are extremely excited to not only release this product, but to have it being used by one of the largest companies in the world," said Tom VanGoethem, president and Chief Executive and Operations Officer at ODT. "We have been specializing in dynamic document creation for over sixteen years, and the iPad is a natural extension of our capabilities."

A tablet-based strategy is gaining momentum as companies look to put actionable information in the hands of sales people at the point of decision making. It is also a valuable "green" strategy in terms of being environmentally friendly and saving money due to less paper printing.

"We wanted to exploit the capabilities of the iPad - instant on, the intuitive interface, and wireless connectivity - things that make it head and shoulders better than booting up a laptop in a sales situation," said Philip Allen, ODT's Chief Technology and Marketing Officer. "Ease of use is the key while delivering timely, relevant, and compelling content at the same time."

In 2012 ODT plans to roll the app out to a variety of industries, including insurance, financial services, advertising solutions, and medical sales as companies migrate to a tablet-based strategy.

[12.21.11]
Benchmark Electronics' Thailand Facility Reopens Ahead of Schedule

Benchmark Electronics' Ayudhaya, Thailand facility has restarted operations a week ahead of their planned schedule. The factory, located in the Hi-Tech Industrial Estate in Ayudhaya, sustained damage to its buildings and equipment as a result of floodwaters breaching the levee protecting the industrial park, and the Company ceased production at the factory in October until the floodwaters receded and operational safety could be confirmed.

Benchmark's factory was the first to reopen in the Hi-Tech Industrial Estate. This rapid recovery was made possible because of the effectiveness of the Company's Emergency Management Business Continuity Plan. Going forward, the Company will continue operations in both Ayudhaya and its recently restarted Korat facility.

"It's remarkable that this facility could be up and running and producing product for our customers a week ahead of our aggressive schedule. It is a testament to the quality of our employees and to all the Thailand people," said Cary T. Fu, Chief Executive Officer. "Also and very importantly, the Thai government has vowed to invest in new infrastructure to ensure that such a disaster will not be repeated, including the creation of new floodways to more efficiently channel water through the central region and Chao Phraya river basin to the Gulf of Thailand, and increasing the levee system around the Hi Tech Industrial Park to a level exceeding the 100 year flood plan which is well in excess of the flood levels recently experienced."

[12.16.11]
Soft4Boost Releases New Application That Boosts Windows Performance

Soft4Boost recently introduced a new software program that helps keep the Windows operating system safe and running efficiently.

Soft4Boost just introduced a new product known as PC Win Booster which helps users of the Windows operating system to maintain optimal PC performance and to keep the Windows operating system safe. PC Win Booster is a multilingual software program that PC users can install on PCs that run on Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7 and is designed for both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows.

How PC Win Booster Works:

PC Win Booster is compatible with Microsoft Office, a variety of graphics programs, antivirus software, and many other programs that are installed on your PC. The program is available as a free download and offers a multilingual interface that is available in English, French, Russian, German, Spanish, and Italian.

PC Win Booster allows users to perform the following functions:

Remove Unnecessary Files: PC Win Booster allows users to clean out unnecessary files that are leftover after uninstalling software programs or are the result of a malware infection that was removed by your antivirus/anti-malware program.

Remove Unused Empty Folders: PC Win Booster allows you to remove empty folder that are not useful.

Delete Temporary Files: Temporary files are unnecessary and take up space on your hard drive. With PC Win Booster you can remove the files to keep your PC running at peak performance.

Remove Invalid Shortcuts: PC Win Booster allows you to remove shortcuts that are invalid and not useful. Then you automatically empty the Recycle Bin to remove the broken and deleted files.

Registry Maintenance: With PC Win Booster you can safely backup the registry and operating system as well as revert to any changes that have been made to the registry if necessary. You can also restore the registry and system files to the original state before you perform disk cleanup.

Automated Scanning: You can set PC Win Booster to automatically scan your PC at a time that you designate even when you are away from your PC. You can also select specific file categories for scanning.

Defragmentation Local Drives: PC Win Booster allows users to defrag local drives if needed. Defragmentation reduces data access time and allows storage to be used more efficiently. PC Win Booster scans local drives and makes decisions, whether defragmentation is needed to the each local drive.

PC Win Booster can be downloaded for free from the Soft4Boost website. Once PC Win Booster is installed on the PC, click on the Start menu and choose PC Win Booster from All Programs. The PC is now protected and runs at optimal level.

[12.16.11]
Nixeus Technology Unveils Nixeus Fusion XS Network Media Player

Nixeus Technology announced the availability of the company's latest addition to its line of next generation multimedia players, the Nixeus Fusion XS Network Media Player. Featuring the Marvell ARMADA 1000 as the company's chipset provider, this multimedia player is equipped with a dual-core processor and Qdeo video/image post processing. 

The Nixeus Fusion XS is designed to playback digital movies, photos and music directly to a TV. Once connected to a local network, the multimedia player allows users to surf the Internet and access their favorite Web sites, as well as access their own media files from an external hard drive or any network shared computer. In addition, users can playback movies in full HD in 1080p resolution or listen to music while browsing family photos on the TV.

The Nixeus Fusion XS Network Media Player features the following:

• Marvell 88DE3010 Dual Core Processor @ 900MHz

• Google Android 2.2 Operating System

• Supports development and installation of third party software and Android applications

• Built-in Web browser with HTML5 and Adobe Flash Support

• Wide comprehensive file format support

"The Nixeus Fusion HD was so well-received as our premier multimedia player, we're really looking forward to introducing the next product in our lineup," stated Tony Diep, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Nixeus Technology. "By incorporating the award-winning Marvell ARMADA 1000 chipset and Android OS into the Fusion XS, we're confident the entertainment experience will be enhanced like never before."

With an MSRP of $169.99, the Nixeus Fusion XS is available for purchase at Amazon.com, NCIX.com and through D&H Distributing. 

[12.15.11]
Cenoire Unveils Innovative Line of Fashionable Electronic Toothbrushes

Cenoire announced the availability of the company's premier line of electronic toothbrushes for women. Designed for those on-the-go, the Eluo toothbrush by Cenoire provides a balance of fashion and oral hygiene, encased in a stylish compact sonic toothbrush. 

Merging electronics and fashion, Cenoire's Eluo toothbrush is formulated with style, class and bold designs to match the user's look and mood. The compact size allows users to discretely carry the toothbrush in their purse, pocket, case or bag while at work, traveling or playing. Battery operated and using the latest electric toothbrush technology, the Cenoire Eluo sonic toothbrush is capable of up to 23,000 brush strokes per minute to ensure the user's mouth stays fresh and fully clean removing any plaque.

Cenoire's Eluo sonic toothbrush features the following:

• Approximately 23,000 brush strokes/minute
• Washable and replaceable brush head (free replacement brush head is included)
• Battery powered sonic toothbrush
• On/Off push button activation
• Protective cap preventing germs
• Duration: 90 days (usage two times/day)
• Weight: .88 oz.
• Size: 16.2 x 1.85 cm

Cenoire's Eluo sonic toothbrush is available in three stylish colors, including pink, white and black.

[12.09.11]
Facebook Users Can Now Watch TV and Movies Via FreeCast.com App

Facebook users now have the ability to watch myriad web-based television channels from directly within Facebook, thanks to a new service being rolled out by FreeCast.com today.

The new system will allow users to continue their social media activities while simultaneously enjoying their favorite TV/cable shows, movies, events, concerts and radio, at no cost.

FreeCast.com currently dominates the web as the leading provider of web-based television, offering an intuitive personal channel guide to consumers. The system is supported by an expansive video search engine, which locates and categorizes around 1.5 million new videos each day.

FreeCast.com's CEO, William Mobley, explains the benefits their system will bring to both the content providers and Facebook. "Both the content providers and Facebook benefit from eyeballs being directed to their content, resulting in more time online and thus increased advertising revenue. There are also benefits to the mass aggregations of Facebook like-minded special interest groups including; college alumni, ethnic/country specific or ex-pat's, business, sports, and even politicians now able to distribute messages, video clips, promotional materials, etc. via instant Facebook alerts to their "Likes" and the "Share" methods, creating mass viral distribution to their followers from their own video channels," he says.

FreeCast.com's content originates from numerous sources around the world, such as TV and cable networks, movie channels, radio stations, YouTube, Vimeo - all major content distributors. With so much content available, users have the ability to get alerts when new content that may interest them becomes available.

[12.06.11]
ChaCha Unveils Faster, Smoother Android App With Updated Features

”This new version of our app makes the ChaCha experience even more streamlined for our users,” said Mick Oppy, Head of Mobile Product. “We have already seen a remarkable amount of downloads and increased engagement. We are always looking to improve our service and could not be more proud of 4.0”

Users can sign up to receive ChaCha alerts for weather, stocks, news and more to be sent to their phone. The updated app is also equipped with push notifications, which allow users to receive their answer when the app is not open. With improved stability, an updated registration process and a faster, smoother interface, ChaCha for Android Version 4.0 is compatible with the latest Android OS release, version 3.1, also known as Ice Cream Sandwich. Version 4.0 requires Android OS v. 2.1 or higher.

[12.06.11]
PBS KIDS Expands Video App to iPhone & iPod touch, Offering More Free Educational Video Content on Mobile than Any Other Kids Media Brand

The PBS KIDS Video App is now available on iPhone and iPod touch, bringing more free educational video content to families than any other children’s media app. The app gives families free, streaming access to more than 2,000 videos – including clips and full episodes – from their favorite PBS KIDS series. The PBS KIDS Video App launched on iPad in May with great success; it has served more than 430 million video streams – an average of two million per day – and has had over 450,000 downloads to date.

“PBS KIDS video has been incredibly successful online, making PBSKIDS.org the number one kids entertainment site for free streamed videos,” said Jason Seiken, Senior Vice President, Interactive, PBS. “When we launched the PBS KIDS Video iPad app in May, it was equally well-received, with 50 million streams just in the first month and growing to more than 86 million streams in November. And kids watch more video streams on the PBS KIDS Video iPad app than on nearly all other children’s broadcast and cable network websites. After seeing this high demand for our children’s programming on the iPad we were committed to extending the app’s reach to the iPhone and iPod touch, which will bring our popular content to even more kids and parents.”

Demand for high-quality, educational apps continues to rise, particularly as families plan to bring their mobile devices with them during holiday travel. In a recent survey conducted by PBS, parents ranked educational value as one of the top reasons for purchase (74 percent) when choosing apps for smart phones. [read]

[12.06.11]
C Spire Wireless and Sony Ericsson Move Mobile Gaming Experience into the Fast Lane with the Xperia™ PLAY Smartphone

C Spire Wireless is celebrating the holiday season with the introduction of the Sony Ericsson Xperia™ PLAY Android™ touchscreen smartphone.

The Xperia™ PLAY combines the popularity of PlayStation® Certified gaming with all the advanced features, apps and capabilities of an Android touchscreen smartphone to create the ultimate gaming and mobile broadband experience.

Powered by the Android™ 2.3 Gingerbread mobile operating system, the device comes pre-loaded with seven game titles, including Madden NFL 11 (EA Sports), Bruce Lee Dragon Warrior (Digital Legends), Asphalt 6:Adrenaline (Gameloft), The Sims™ 3 (EA), Star Battalion (Gameloft), Crash Bandicoot® (Sony PlayStation®) and Tetris® .

C Spire and Sony Ericsson also are teaming up to offer purchasers of the device another five free games for download from the EA Games mobile website until January 15, 2012, including Need for Speed™ Hot Pursuit, Need for Speed™ Shift, Battlefield: Bad Company™ 2, Dead Space™ and FIFA 12.

“As a company committed to offering the ultimate personalized wireless experience, we’re pleased to carry the Xperia™ PLAY,” said Kevin Hankins, chief operating officer for C Spire Wireless. “The Xperia™ PLAY’s immersive gaming experience, ever-growing list of optimized games, sleek design and seamless integration with the latest Android touchscreen smartphone technology makes this a perfect gift for the holiday season.”

“This strategic partnership with C Spire will help us meet growing consumer demand for the Xperia™ PLAY by making the advanced gaming and mobile communications device more widely available,” said Peter Farmer, head of North America marketing for Sony Ericsson. “The popularity of the Xperia™ PLAY coupled with the dependability, reliability and coverage of the C Spire network make this a must-have gift for the serious gamer.”

Customers can easily expand their video game library with more than 150 game titles optimized on the Xperia™ PLAY and available for download and purchase through the Android™ Market. Users can easily transform their smartphone into the ultimate mobile gaming device with the slide out game pad revealing a directional keypad, dual analog touch joystick, two shoulder buttons and the four iconic PlayStation® symbol keys: circle, X, square and triangle.

[12.05.11]
G-Technology by Hitachi Strengthens Its Brand Presence in Canada

G-Technology by Hitachi today announced that D&H Canada, one of North America’s leading technology distributors, is authorized to distribute Hitachi GST’s full line of premium G-Technology external storage solutions. D&H Canada will offer and promote the award-winning G-Technology brand, including the G-SPEED, G-RAID and G-DRIVE product families, to its strong channel customer network of leading retailers, resellers and solution providers throughout the region.

G-Technology drives are engineered specifically to meet the needs of the content creation and Apple Mac communities, including heavy users of multimedia content, Final Cut Pro® digital audio/video specialists and other pre/post production professionals. From rugged portable drives to ultra-fast, multi-drive RAID storage, G-Technology’s USB, FireWire, eSATA, and SAS storage solutions support virtually all levels of A/V production and can be found in post-production facilities worldwide.

“The Mac and content creation market is growing fast in Canada, driven by the rising popularity of Apple products as well as the increased storage demands driven by digital photography, HD video, online music and the Internet,” said Ian Andes, vice president of G-Technology sales, Hitachi GST Branded Business. “Our partnership with D&H Canada is designed to extend the value of the brand, increase consumer awareness in the region and to better meet the demand for top-quality external storage solutions that feature superior performance, functionality, usability, reliability and industrial design. We look forward to a long relationship with D&H.”

“G-Technology has a strong brand and leading reputation in the Mac and creative community, and there’s growing demand for their products in Canada. We are thrilled to have them as part of our product lineup. D&H is actively offering G-Technology’s storage solutions to our national partners right in time for the holiday shopping season,” said Greg Tobin, general manager, D&H Canada. “We look forward to working together with G-Technology by Hitachi and growing our businesses within the Mac community.”

[12.01.11]
TESSCO and ZAGG Bring Innovation to the Mobile Device Marketplace

TESSCO Technologies Incorporated, a provider of the product and value chain solutions required to build, use and maintain wireless systems, and ZAGG Inc., an innovator of mobile device accessories, have announced that ZAGG’s award-winning accessories are now available through TESSCO.

This new relationship supports the ever-increasing demand for solutions that maximize mobile device performance and productivity, including innovative products that protect, personalize, and enhance the latest handsets and tablets. TESSCO customers now have access to an exciting accessory portfolio from critically acclaimed ZAGG, recently identified as the No. 1 mobile device accessory brand in the U.S. by the NPD Group, a leading retail market research company.

“Our new relationship with ZAGG is extremely exciting for us,” said Liz Robinson, vice president of mobile device accessories for TESSCO. “The combination of their strong brand and premier-quality position is a natural fit with TESSCO's product and customer strategies. We look forward to great results and tremendous growth with our combined efforts.”

“We are very excited to work with TESSCO, a leading wireless industry solutions provider; they will be a great supply chain partner for us,” said John W. Melville, director of wireless sales for ZAGG. “TESSCO is known for providing innovative solutions, outstanding service, and unparalleled value chain expertise. This new relationship will significantly help ZAGG expand its presence in the wireless retail channel.”

TESSCO’s expanded mobile device accessory offering now includes the invisibleSHIELD®, ZAGGsparq™, ZAGGsmartbuds™, ZAGGfoam™ Cleaning Kit, and other mobile solutions. In addition to ZAGG’s flagship product, the invisibleSHIELD, a patented, military-grade mobile device protection solution, TESSCO also offers the ZAGGfolio™ all-in-one Apple® iPad™ 2 companion, which took top honors at the recent TESSCO Innovation Showcase.

[11.28.11]
Global Electronics Giant Catering to African Technology Needs

The growth experienced by Samsung Africa has been nothing short of phenomenal. The statistic which represents this best is the sharp surge in the number of employees. In just one year, staff numbers have doubled to over 1,000, which includes 650 full time workers, field representatives and marketers.

"It comes as a result of the growth and progressive steps we have taken - being committed to the whole of Africa," states George Ferreira, Chief Operating Officer (COO) for Samsung Africa.

The region's head office is situated in Sandton, Johannesburg, with the South Africa offices based in the building next door. Ferreira states that Samsung is the first consumer electronics company to base its African headquarters actually in the continent, reiterating the South Korean company's slogan 'Built for Africa'.

Samsung has placed great focus on its 'Built for Africa' initiative. This involves looking at global products and adapting them to best suit African conditions. The company's first solar powered netbook was released in Africa, as were 'surge safe' televisions which can handle fluctuations of power without having their performance effected, and which can operate on minimal energy.

[11.27.11]
MyFlare(TM) Debuts as First Automated Multi-Functional Personal Safety App for Smartphones

MyFlare(TM) cleverly employs the essential resources on a smartphone to provide users additional personal safety and faster emergency response. MyFlare(TM) is the first automated multi-functional personal safety app in which one button calls 911 or a non-emergency number, while simultaneously alerting the users' family, friends and emergency contacts that they're in trouble; providing their GPS location; blasting a police siren; and even including a video recording of their present environment.

What makes MyFlare(TM) unique is that it not only utilizes telephone, SMS text messaging, e-mail, GPS, audio and video to create and continuously deliver an emergency distress message, but all of its resources execute automatically upon pushing just one button within the app. MyFlare(TM) allows users to utilize their smartphone's resources collectively in ways that are humanly impossible to do on their own (for example, automatically delivering multiple messages to different people simultaneously). MyFlare(TM)'s functionality is simple and simultaneous -- critical in a potentially life-threatening situation.

According to a recent USA Today study encompassing the 50 biggest U.S. cities, more than 1,000 savable lives are lost each year because of inefficiencies in emergency medical response times. The National Crime Victimization Survey reported in 2006 that 232,960 women in the U.S. were raped or sexually assaulted, which equated to more than 600 women every day. Furthermore, the Stalking Resource Center has found that 1,006,970 women are stalked annually in the U.S., and one in 12 women will be stalked in her lifetime. In addition, the Kids Fighting Chance organization reveals that one child is reported missing or abducted every 40 minutes, which translates to approximately 2,000 reports per day and 800,000 reports per year.

These examples of statistics prove there is a major need for an additional -- and personal -- layer of protection in the event of an emergency. With MyFlare(TM), that time has finally come. Funded and designed by co-founders Barry Haimo and David Kahn, and developed by iPowerFour, a multinational software development company with an 18-year proven track record, MyFlare(TM) acts as a personalized digital flare gun by cleverly utilizing smartphone technology to minimize one's risk of danger. In the event of an emergency, MyFlare(TM) performs ALL of the following actions automatically, simultaneously and continuously in order to give users the help they need when they need it most:

- Calls 911 or the user's designated non-911 emergency contact
- Sends a customized MyFlare Message(TM) via SMS text message and e-mail to 10 of the user's pre-selected MyFlare Contacts(TM), alerting them that the user's in trouble (the message includes the user's current GPS location)
- Sends 20-second optional video recordings capturing the user's present environment, which are attached to the delivered e-mails every few minutes (as determined by the user)
- Blasts an optional police siren continuously, except when the phone is not in use

Most importantly, the MyFlare Message(TM) is delivered to the user's MyFlare Contacts(TM) every three minutes with the user's updated GPS location. This may prove to be helpful as evidence in legal proceedings or in the event that the user is fleeing an emergency situation, or worse, abducted. David Kahn, CFO of MyFlare(TM), remarked, "We wanted to create a mobile phone app that will make a difference to a lot of people. The statistics we found were frightening and moving forward with the development of this idea was a no-brainer." CEO Barry Haimo added, "Unfortunately, there is often insufficient time in an emergency to communicate with 911, and only some 911 dispatchers will investigate scenarios where 911 is called but the victim cannot communicate. MyFlare(TM) gives smartphone users the peace of mind knowing that there is additional reassurance in all emergencies."

[11.26.11]
Naztech Announces N27 Stereo Music Dock, MFI with High Performance Speakers

Naztech has announced the N27 Stereo Music Dock as their latest innovation to the market. Utilizing the latest engineering technology in neodymium speakers to produce clear, distortion-free sound, the MFI-certified music dock is compatible for your iPod, iPhone and iPad. (Yes, even an iPad.) With its compact design, the N27 is suitable for at home or the office and, despite its size, can blast at a surprisingly high decibel for those who like their music loud. 

Combining function with form, the N27's sleek piano black exterior effectively displays its sophistication and maturity - both of which are manifested in its sound quality. The N27 does not sacrifice overall sound quality for distorted bass, instead keeping it well balanced throughout the frequencies. The 360-degree design allows it to produce a rich omni-directional sound to fully immerse the listener with stunningly detailed audio. 

Playing music has never been easier, connect an iPod, iPhone or iPad, and the N27 will begin playing the "Now Playing" song from where it was left off. In addition, the Naztech Stereo Music Dock also serves as a charger for the device, even while you listen to music. For iPhone users, the Call Prompt feature automatically pauses the music during an incoming call and resumes once the iPhone is placed back on the dock, as if there hadn't been an interruption at all. 

[11.19.11]
Maingear Kicks Up Performance With New 2nd Generation Intel Core i7 Processor Extreme Edition

MAINGEAR, an award-winning custom PC builder offering custom desktops, custom built laptops , and pc workstations updates their SHIFT, F131, and Quantum SHIFT desktops with the new 2nd generation Intel Core i7 processor Extreme Edition and MAINGEAR's exclusive EPIC Audio Engine.

MAINGEAR's SHIFT, F131, and Quantum SHIFT desktops with the 2nd generation Intel Core i7-3960X processor Extreme Edition are the perfect engines for power users who are looking for a top gaming computer or custom built pc that provides unparalleled performance and unlimited digital creativity. Smart features like Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 and Intel Hyper-Threading Technology give additional performance where and when you need it. Gamers will love this new cutting-edge gaming computer platform with up to a 34% improvement in performance at normal clock speeds that can also be overclocked up to 5.2 GHz. This top gaming computer platform is also the first to feature quad-channel memory offering up to 102% memory performance that is more than twice the memory bandwidth of the previous generation. 

Creative professionals will also benefit from this new 2nd generation Intel Core i7 processor Extreme Edition that offers faster performance with up to a 20% increase in video editing pc performance and up to a 14% increase in 3D rendering compared to the previous generation. The MAINGEAR Quantum SHIFT is the perfect high performance pc workstation for any creative professional and has the power to optimize workflow and maximize output with the ultimate desktop processor.

In addition to adding the new 2nd generation Intel Core i7 processor Extreme Edition, MAINGEAR EPIC Research Labs have also enhanced the SHIFT and F131 with the highly anticipated EPIC Audio Engine that debuted earlier in the year at CEA Week 2011. MAINGEAR has partnered with legendary pro audio technology brand, APHEX, as a licensee, to offer an exclusive audio enhancement solution that gamers, creative professionals, DJ's and musicians will appreciate. By leveraging Aphex's studio-grade processing technology in a custom designed high performance pc solution, headphone audio output and microphone input will be unmatched by any solution in the industry. This unique technology harmonically brings audio to life without adding gain to deliver audio that's more balanced, more articulated, and simply put, better sounding.

Rounding out the new enhancements to MAINGEAR's lineup of award-winning pc workstations and gaming desktop computers is the introduction of the EPIC Control Center, a GUI control panel for monitoring the thermal performance of a MAINGEAR high performance pc system that features granular fan control, real time temperature monitoring, and event-based lighting control. Alerts can also be set up to notify users when critical temperature levels are reached. The MAINGEAR EPIC Control Center is due out during the Holiday 2011 season.

"The new 2nd generation Intel Core i7 processor Extreme Edition provides the ultimate benefit for gamers looking for unmatched gaming performance, whether you are a novice or a seasoned pro. Said CJ Bruno, VP, GM Intel Americas "MAINGEAR understands their customers want breakthrough performance and we are thrilled that MAINGEAR has again selected the 2nd Gen Core Extreme Edition for their newest products."

"APHEX is excited that MAINGEAR will be releasing their EPIC Audio Engine that takes advantage of APHEX's unique audio technology, bringing a whole new level of audio performance to the PC market." Says David Wiener, CEO & Chairman of APHEX. "The APHEX technologies in MAINGEAR's EPIC Audio Engine will dramatically improve audio for gamers, music and movie lovers." 

"We are always hard at work thinking about innovative ways to incorporate new products from our partners," said Wallace Santos, CEO and Founder of MAINGEAR. "The new 2nd generation Intel Core i7-3960X processor Extreme Edition and Intel X79 Chipset, combined with our exclusive SHIFT EPIC Audio engine and other EPIC liquid cooling solutions offer the ultimate gaming experience."

[11.03.11]
ClearSync Launches New Calendar Android Phone App

Managing calendars and contacts for businesses and families has been made easier with the introduction of ClearSync 's calendar app for Android smartphones and tablets. The interconnected and user-friendly software synchronizes with the leading desktop calendar programs offered by Google and Microsoft , so that a user always knows the schedules of the important people in their life. ClearSync allows a user to share multiple calendars and contact lists with anyone, anywhere and at any time.

Introduced by Tanner Research, a leader in microelectronic design solutions, ClearSync's app is now available for download in the Android market and makes calendar sharing simple. "ClearSync has the most flexible calendar sharing model in the mobile calendaring space," says John Tanner, chief executive officer of both ClearSync and Tanner Research. "There is nothing in the app world that handles multiple-calendar events the way ClearSync does. ClearSync allows users to share across multiple Outlook, Google and ClearSync calendars, and a change anywhere is propagated everywhere." 

The ClearSync calendar app is ideal for busy individuals, families, small businesses and organizations, medium-sized businesses and even departments within larger businesses and organizations. The program allows users to juggle all aspects of life including professional, social, church, charity work, school and children's activities via its unlimited color-coded calendars and contacts categories. 

The ClearSync app offers five levels of service: 

-Free: Ideal for simple sharing, offers one sharing group, two members of groups, sync with Google, forum tech support and a free trial for sync with Microsoft Outlook. This app is supported by occasional advertising popups.
-Individual: Allows greater sharing with four people and everything included in the free application. This app sells for $4.99 and has no advertising.
-Outlook: Ideal for someone who wants simply to connect their Outlook Calendar data to their phone. Includes all the features of the Individual App, plus allows the user to sync with an unlimited number of Outlook calendars and installations for $9.95/year.
-Silver: Ideal for families, small organizations and offices, offers unlimited sharing groups and members of groups, email tech support, text messaging, and sync with Google and Microsoft Outlook for $19.95/year.
-Gold: Ideal for power users, midsize companies and professionals, offers encrypted communications, unlimited sharing groups, members of groups, phone technical support, text messaging, sync with Google and Microsoft Outlook for $59.95/year. [read]

[10.19.11]
Mo-DV Offers Fast, Secure, Economical Cross-Platform Solution to Delivering Multimedia Content Globally to Mobile Devices

Mo-DV (Mobile Digital Video), an innovator of multimedia content delivery via USB Flash Drives and Micro SD Cards, has developed a game changing new technology that solves the format problems between mobile devices, HDTV sets, and other consumer electronic devices, with issued patents. The new medium enables users to play content on cell phones, tablets, PCs, and HDTVs. The Mo-DV technology and patents also apply to rapid Kiosk content delivery in addition to pre-loaded or downloaded content.

"The consumer market for movies on smartphones, tablets, PCs, and smart TVs is now looking for help from Mo-DV," commented Jessica Fullmer, CEO of Mo-DV. "Our new common media enables these users to play content on their mobile devices. Mo-DV provides secure and economical multimedia content delivery universally for all devices via SD Micro Cards and USB Flash Drives. I like to refer to this new form of content delivery as our triple A: Any device, Any place, Anytime." 

Optical discs cannot play on mobile phones, notebooks or tablets, and on fewer and fewer PCs. Mo-DV's technology centers on the premise that one flash-memory device plays on all platforms. The company's cross-platform common media technology brings movies, music videos, and promotional video content to the billions of memory-card-capable mobile phones, tablets, and PCs that are in use today. 

The technology automatically orients and sizes content to fit different screen sizes and shapes, ranging from low to full high-resolution HD. It incorporates Digital Rights Management (DRM) technology, protecting content from being illegally copied.

Although streaming TV to the living room is convenient, it is much more expensive to wirelessly stream or download from carriers to cell phones or mobile devices. Fiber optic-based wired networks are far less costly for data transmission than delivery by wireless networks. This makes movies and other content delivered on flash memory media less expensive than streaming or downloading over networks. Most portable devices are compatible with flash media, unlike optical discs, none of which are compatible with cell phones, tablets, or notebooks. [read]

[8.27.11]
Matrox and Mitsubishi Electric Partner to Deliver Stunning Visuals and Performance at Integrate 2011

Matrox Graphics announces that it will be collaborating with Mitsubishi Electric at Integrate Expo 2011, where Matrox multi-display graphics solutions will drive Mitsubishi high-performance LCD flat panels, display wall cubes, and multimedia projectors arranged in a variety of pro-AV configurations. Dual-pivoted HD monitors powered by Matrox M-Series graphics cards will complement the booth's centerpiece, a 150" Mitsubishi OLED display. Using the Matrox PowerDesk Edge Overlap feature, Matrox M-Series cards will enable three Mitsubishi XD8100U/LU projectors to seamlessly blend and display overlapped video content onto a panoramic curved feature wall. In addition, Matrox Extio remote graphics hardware will drive four Mitsubishi VS-L46XM7OU 46" LCD flat-panel displays in a 4x1 configuration, showcasing unique zero-latency KVM-extension-over-fiber technology. 

"We are very pleased to have the support of Matrox for our booth at Integrate," said Matthew Hanna, Division Manager for Visual Information Systems, Mitsubishi Electric Australia. "The high performance and advanced visual management features of Matrox graphics cards ensure we get the absolute best performance out of our display products."

[6.30.11]
iPad 2 Accessory Provider SW-Box Released kiBORG - iPad 2 Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard Made From Aircraft Grade Aluminum

iPad 2 accessory provider SW-Box Co. Ltd. just released kiBORG ¨C iPad 2 Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard made from aircraft grade aluminum on June 28, 2011. With the slogan ¡°Making Perfect More Perfect¡±, the release of this kiBORG was quite a big event for the company. It offers a thrilling low price (USD $48.52) for all customers. 

¡°The KiBORG iPad 2 Wireless Keyboard Bluetooth Case is thin like a supermodel (think Omahyra Mota) and just as light. Its chassis is constructed from aircraft grade aluminum with a bead blasted finish for borg baby bottom brilliance and sports an innovative hinge so you can position your iPad 2 in portrait or landscape mode. Rumor has it that the Pentagon spent 12.9 Trillion and 7 years developing this baby,¡± depicted in the product description at SW-Box. 

Besides the glamorous aircraft grade aluminum, the keys are unbeatable too. ¡°They're responsive and springy with just the right amount of spring tension. Kind of like the key tension from the keyboards that we used to use on the first generation IBM PC back in the day. Solid with each tap perfect for taking down bbs' or gaining access to the Gibson at Ellingson Mineral Company,¡± commented by the senior copywriter of SW-Box.

With a built-in Lithium ION battery, kiBORG features a standby time of several weeks. The iPad 2 stands firmly on this matte silverite Bluetooth keyboard. Multiple function keys are arranged delicately - kiBORD has done what it can achieve to be user-friendly. 

[6.04.11]
New Gadget Recovers Deleted Data From Androids

Paraben Corporation (http://www.paraben.com/), a leader in the digital forensics industry, announced the release of the Phone Recovery Stick. This innovative new product brings advanced computer forensic powers to every day consumers. Until now, people would need to pay forensic examiners to try to extract deleted data from Androids. The Phone Recovery Stick gives this power to anyone who can plug the USB device into a computer. Once plugged in, users simply plug their Android phone in and run the program. It automatically downloads user data such as call logs, pictures, address books, and much more. It then automatically sifts through all this data to find deleted data from SMS (text) messages, contacts, and more.

"As a parent and an employer, I wanted to give other parents and employers the same tools I use every day," said Amber Schroader, CEO of Paraben Corporation. "Recovering deleted data from cell phones can be so important to parents, spouses, employers, or investigators." The Phone Recovery Stick is based on Paraben's cell phone forensic software that has been available to law enforcement and forensic practitioners for nearly 10 years. With the lines between cell phones and computers becoming more blurred each day, consumers need advanced technology to perform the same tasks they require from their computers. Paraben's Phone Recovery Stick is just one product from Paraben that is helping users with this transition.

[1.23.12]
New Cat® D3K2, D4K2 and D5K2 Benefit from Refinement in Blade Control, Fuel Economy, Power Management, Operator Comfort and Emissions Control

The new Cat® D3K2, D4K2, D5K2  Track-Type Tractors deliver on unmatched finish grading performance and improved fuel economy. New Stable Blade feature utilizes technology which complements operator blade control input making it the best finish grading tractor in the industry. Eco Mode improves fuel economy up to 25% for lower operating costs. Using a more powerful Cat C4.4 engine that meets Stage IIIB/Tier 4 Interim emissions requirements, the K2 models feature hydrostatic drive with Traction Control, which reduces track slip at maximum load.  New in-cab amenities such as Ventilated seat and heated control handles boost operator comfort.  New Power Pitch allows operator to control blade pitch fore/aft for maximum productivity in various material conditions.

The K2 models blend these new features with the basic field-proven design of their K Family predecessors, a design that includes single-lever travel/steering control, spacious operator's station with standard air conditioning when cab-equipped, single-lever blade control, Cat Sealed-and-Lubricated Track (SALT) or Cat SystemOneTM undercarriage for lowest undercarriage cost per hour.

Net power ratings are increased by more than 8 percent from 55 to 59 kW (74 to 80 hp) for the D3K2, and from 62 to 69 (84 to 92 net hp) for the D4K2. The D5K2 gets a power boost from 71 to 78 kW (96 to 104 hp). The new C4.4 ACERT ™ engine features air-to-air charge-air cooling, Passive Plus Regeneration system for emissions control, and a new electric fuel-priming pump.

Operating efficiency
Stable Blade supplements the operator's blade-control input, reducing operator effort and fatigue, while increasing productivity in finish grading applications. The Stable Blade feature remains activated unless cancelled by the operator. For even more productivity, the optional new Power Pitch feature allows the operator to adjust blade pitch hydraulically from the operators’ seat, for example, selecting a more aggressive setting when loading the blade, then pitching the blade rearward for more blade carry capacity. Power Pitch can boost productivity as much as 6 percent.

The new Eco Mode system for the K2 models can improve fuel economy by up to 25 percent by reducing engine speed when maximum rpm is not required. Eco Mode has two settings - Forward/Reverse or Reverse Only - that are selected via the rotary throttle. Once set, Eco Mode automatically controls engine speed at optimal levels, delivering maximum engine speed and power when required.

Traction Control is an operator-activated system that reduces track slippage under heavy load by sensing and controlling track speed, resulting in fewer situations where operator must lift the blade to prevent track slip. The benefits include higher production, less undercarriage wear and reduced operator fatigue. Undercarriage configurations include XL (Extra Long) and LGP (Low Ground Pressure) versions, with an LGP version that features 30-inch track shoes.

For the ultimate in operator comfort when a K2 model is equipped with an enclosed ROPS cab, an optional package provides heated/ventilated seats and heated (joystick) control handles. These functions are operator-controlled via switches in the cab.

[1.20.12]
Detroit Diesel Delivers 100,000th DD Platform Engine to Southern Refrigerated Transport

Detroit Diesel Corporation delivered its 100,000th DD platform engine to Southern Refrigerated Transport (SRT), a subsidiary of Covenant Transportation Group. The engine – a Detroit™ DD15® in a Freightliner Cascadia® – was presented on January 19 at a special ceremony at Southern Refrigerated Transport’s Texarkana, AR headquarters. 

Longtime customer Covenant Transportation Group, which in addition to SRT includes Star Transportation and Covenant Transport, is one of the largest truckload carriers in the United States. More than 70 percent of the company’s fleet is comprised of Freightliner tractors with Detroit engines. 

“Our customers rely on Covenant to perform at the highest level of service every time, which is why we need our partners to deliver,” said David Hughes, senior vice president and corporate treasurer for Covenant Transportation Group. “Detroit engines help us achieve our service commitments at the highest of levels.” 

Because Covenant Transportation Group is an EPA SmartWay® partner, Hughes also noted that the DD15’s robust performance coupled with its excellent fuel efficiency is ideal for meeting the company’s pledge to decrease fuel consumption and emissions. 

Added Mark Lampert, senior vice president, sales and marketing for Daimler Trucks North America: “We are proud of our DD Platform of heavy-duty engines, and pleased that SRT and all of the Covenant Transportation Group companies have achieved excellent efficiency and performance with our engines.” 

The DD heavy-duty engine family – which also includes the DD13® and DD16® – features enhanced technologies and operating efficiencies, resulting in powerful performance and excellent fuel economy. The production of the 100,000th engine was marked in late 2011 with a celebration at Detroit Diesel’s manufacturing facility.

[1.09.12]
Makita Jigsaw Named "Best Overall" by Fine Homebuilding/Fine Woodworking

That's what the editors of Fine Homebuildingand Fine Woodworking had to say about the Makita 4350FCT Top Handle Jigsaw.

Taunton Press (Fine Homebuilding& Fine Woodworking) rounded up seven pro-level top-handle jigsaws from Bosch, DeWalt, Festool, Makita, Metabo, Milwaukee, and Porter Cable for their annual 2012 Tool Guide. They tested the tools for basic differences in speed, control, size, weight, and power, as well as features like L.E.D. lights, vacuum ports, dust blowers, and cases. They tested the seven saws on softwoods, hardwoods, plywood, metal, and porcelain tile in their review.

In the end, the Makita 4350FCT was named "Best Overall" and the "Editors' Choice. They liked the compact size and well-balanced design of the 4350FCT, as well as the tool's maneuverability, low noise, soft-start feature, and the line of sight to the cut line (they called it "just right").  The editors also liked the power, noting that the Makita "sliced through all the materials with ease, even working through 4x4 ipe posts better than any other saw."

The Makita 4350FCT Top Handle Jigsaw is part of Makita's best-in-class line-up of cutting and woodworking solutions.

[11.25.11]
Caterpillar and Anqing CSSC Diesel Engine Establish Joint Venture to Produce Medium Speed Marine Engines in China

Caterpillar Inc. and Anqing CSSC Diesel Engine Co., Ltd. (ACD) announced today they have signed an agreement to form a joint venture that will manufacture MaK brand medium speed marine engines for China and the Asia Pacific region.
Over the years, Caterpillar has been offering an outstanding marine diesel power range and a complete, continuously evolving product line of Cat® and MaK brands to customers across the globe. 

“This joint venture is the only JV of Caterpillar in the field of medium speed engines globally. The JV continues the Caterpillar strategy to develop partnerships with leading Chinese companies as we deploy our comprehensive business model in China.” said Richard Case, Caterpillar vice president with responsibility for the Marine & Petroleum Power Division. “The partnership will position Caterpillar to better compete and support its growing base of customers in China and across Asia.” 

 “CSSC has ranked second worldwide for five consecutive years in terms of the number of ships built.  As a key supporting enterprise of CSSC, ACD achieved rapid growth during the 11th Five-Year Plan period. ” said Tan Zuojun, General Manager of CSSC. “To partner with Caterpillar in creating the JV and introduce MaK product lines is conducive to the next-step development of ACD, especially in tapping the marine engineering market. ”

“The JV will focus on improving production efficiency and management, lowering parts purchase cost, as well as expanding sales.  ” said ACD Chairman Zhang Haisen. “When growing to a certain scale in the future, the JV and Caterpillar will develop new Newsmodels, and enhance the engineering capability of the JV, in an effort to support its sustainable development. ”  
The joint venture will be located in Anqing, Anhui, and will produce MaK-brand M20 and M25 medium speed marine engines. It is expected to begin operations in mid 2012. Caterpillar Marine Trading Shanghai Ltd. will be responsible for product distribution, application engineering, after sales services and the aftermarket parts business. 

“The 12th Five-Year Plan emphasizes the need to enhance the marine industry, particularly medium speed engines. This project directly supports that 12th Five-Year Plan objective.” said Kevin Thieneman, Caterpillar country manager for China. “We are committed to increasing the range of our products and components in China. In nearly four decades, Caterpillar has grown from a single office in Beijing to a comprehensive footprint, including 16 manufacturing facilities, 9 new facilities under construction, 4 Research & Development centers, 3 logistics and parts centers, 1 financial leasing company in China.” Today more than 20,000 people between Caterpillar and its independent dealer network work in China to support Caterpillar customers.   

[11.16.11]
Mapei Offers Labor Saving Alternative to Commercial Flooring Remodelers

MAPEI has come up with a labor-saving alternative in the form of its new series of Planiprep™ surface preparation products that installers can use themselves with minimum equipment requirements. Virtually all flooring adhesive manufacturers require a concrete subfloor to be free from any contaminant that may interfere with the bond of the floor covering to the subfloor, including residual adhesive from old flooring. These requirements generally mean flooring installers must contract for the relatively expensive shotblasting process, which can create dust and a great deal of noise. Where shotblasting is either too expensive or not approved for a jobsite situation, MAPEI’s Planiprep surface preparation products are the perfect solution.

Three innovative Planiprep products work together to get the job done:

1. Planiprep AR (Adhesive Remover) softens and lifts old latex adhesive residues from the concrete subfloor.
2. Planiprep SA (Scouring Agent) eliminates any adhesive remover residue and etches the concrete.
3. Planiprep ET (Epoxy Treatment) caps the concrete subfloor to control moisture emission rates and prepare the floor to accept new adhesives.

“We are always looking at ways to improve installation processes for flooring contractors,” said Jeff Johnson, Business Manager for MAPEI’s Floor Covering Installation Systems line. “With the Planiprep surface preparation products, we are offering a time- and labor-saving method of getting the majority of concrete subfloors ready for a new covering. We think contractors will see substantial benefits in using Planiprep AR, SA and ET.”

[10.26.11]
Cargotec wins contract for over 50 port equipment in Venezuela

Cargotec has won an order to supply 54 Kalmar port equipment to Venezuelan customer Bolivariana de Puertos, S.A. The order includes 24 Kalmar DRF 450-65 reachstackers, 4 Kalmar DRF100-54 reachstackers for empty container handling, 19 Kalmar Ottawa 4x2 terminal tractors, 3 Kalmar DCF80-45 masted empty container handlers and 4 Kalmar DCE160-12 lift trucks.  All equipment will be delivered during year 2011. The parties have agreed not to disclose the value of the order that has been booked in the third quarter of 2011.

"We are very proud to be selected as a key supplier of equipment to Bolipuertos and to secure such a ground breaking order. As the organisation expands and standardises its fleet it is extremely pleasing that the performance of existing Kalmar equipment and the support we have provided to date has resulted in this significant deal and the continuation of our excellent working partnership," said Cargotec's  Sales Director Emilio Martinez.

Headquartered in Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, Bolipuertos is a government ministry responsible for the operation of six ports with an annual cargo traffic of around 1,000,000 TEUs. Controlling the ports of La Guaira, Puerto Cabello, Guanta, Maracaibo, El Guamache and La Ceiba, Bolipuertos already runs a fleet of over a hundred reachstackers and other associated equipment, including a large number of Kalmar models.

Recently the Government of Venezuela signed a contract to build a Mega-Port in Puerto Cabello and to expand the Port of La Guaira.  Puerto Cabello will handle 700,000 TEUs and La Guaira will handle 600,000TEUs in addition to the rest of the ports.

It is the customer's experience with these existing Kalmar machines, along with the service and support from Cargotec's local dealer, Comercializadora Tecnaval C. A, directed by Mr. Gustavo Steinberg,  which has led to the selection of these 54 new Kalmar models as Bolipuertos seeks to standardise its fleet from one provider. The new additions are to expand the fleet in light of a growth in Venezuela's import trade and also to replace some obsolete models.

[10.05.11]
Kohler Greenbuild Booth Earns Green Exhibitor Award

Each of the companies registered as Greenbuild 2011 exhibitors was invited to compete for the Green Exhibitor Awards, a program recognizing outstanding sustainable booth design and construction that exceeds minimum requirements set by the Greenbuild Mandatory Exhibition Green Guidelines (GMEGG). Of the 1,000-plus exhibitors, Kohler Co. was one of only three to receive a Leader Level award, the highest level in the competition.

Competing exhibitors are critiqued on five sections: booth construction, shipping materials, transportation, print/collateral, and community partnerships. Kohler incorporated reclaimed materials, biodegradable signage, energy-efficient lighting and more into its booth design. Other sustainable elements of the booth’s design and construction include:

• Fitting all displays into one 53’ truck to limit transportation costs.
• Building structures from reclaimed barn wood, portions of which will be reused at other tradeshows.
• Donating KOHLER products displayed in the booth; other building materials were designed to be    repackaged for return shipment.
• Using low-VOC paints and adhesives
• Printing signage with biodegradable UV or soy-based inks
• Eliminating the distribution of promotional materials in the booth; no print materials of any kind. 
• Constructing booth seating areas from palettes topped with cushions made from recycled fabric.
• Constructing countertops from recycled glass or paperstone.

[10.04.11]
MAPEI Introduces Liquid-Rubber Crack-Isolation Membrane

MAPEI has introduced Mapelastic CI, a premixed liquid-rubber crack-isolation membrane for installation under ceramic tile or stone.
This quick-drying product can be used in interior and exterior environments on residential or commercial projects. Mapelastic CI provides a solution for resolving potential in-plane cracking in concrete substrates up to 1/8 inch (3 mm). “While MAPEI feels that the ultimate form of crack isolation is typified by sheet membranes such as our Mapeguard 2, we have recognized the market interest in roll-applied membranes and have formulated Mapelastic CI to meet those needs,” said Brian Pistulka, Business Manager for MAPEI’s Tile & Stone Installation Systems.

Mapelastic CI was developed to give some added benefits to this new entry into the roller-applied crack-isolation membrane market. It is relatively quick-drying, allowing tile or stone installations after 30 to 50 minutes. The membrane changes color when it is cured, making it easy for workers to see at a glance when they can proceed to the next phase of the installation. They also profit from the labor-saving steps of easily applying Mapelastic CI with a roller or brush. And, most importantly, use of this membrane meets ANSI A118.12 requirements, preventing in-plane floor cracks up to 1/8 inch (3 mm) from transmitting through the tile or stone.

“We expect Mapelastic CI to meet the needs of many contractors working to short deadlines who want to make sure they have proper surface preparation,” Pistulka said. “By responding to our customers’ needs with innovative ideas, we feel we are demonstrating in a very ‘flexible’ way that MAPEI is technology you can build on.”

[8.02.11]
MAPEI Helps Consumers Maintain Their Tile Grout with Two Great New Products

MAPEI, a leader in the manufacture of mortars and grouts for commercial and residential tile installations, has just introduced two new products that help property owners maintain and update the grout joints in their tile. Grout Maximizer is a premium latex-based additive for mixing with the company’s Keracolor™S Portland-cement-based grout to increase resistance to water and oil-based stains. When added to the grout at the time of installation, Grout Maximizer is easier to apply than epoxy grouts but still provides reduced absorption of water, dirt and spills.

“The fact that the grout in the tile joints will now have reduced absorption gives the consumer increased stain resistance and easier maintenance,” said Brian Pistulka, Business Manager for MAPEI’s Tile & Stone Installation Systems division. Use of this additive does not affect the grout color, and the extra sealing step is no longer necessary. “We anticipate that sales of this product will be built through training and education related to the product’s properties and customer needs,” Pistulka added.

Grout Refresh offers a quick way to freshen up dingy grout lines at a very small cost. This polymer-modified colorant allows the user to change or refresh grout colors and seal the joints at the same time. It is easy to apply and quickly revitalizes the look of an older tile installation.

“Grout Refresh is a product that comes in 36 popular colors,” Pistulka said. “We expect it to be a high-volume sale for DIY retailers and flooring dealers to whom our distributors sell.” As consumers look to the market for means of protecting and updating their homes without major renovations, MAPEI continues to provide innovative products that will give them added value.

[7.21.11]
Great Strides towards a Sustainable Brisbane

Looking at what is happening in Brisbane today, the city had come a long way in its quest to become one of Australia's most sustainable green cities. The efforts of Brisbane's City Council together with assistance from the State Government efforts are firmly focused in the transition of the city towards solar power, and all other aspects required to create a more eco-friendly environment for its residents.

 The city is currently under the umbrella of the Queensland solar bonuses and rebates which alone are sufficient; however the solar rebates don't stop there. The city is eager to make solar power in Brisbane an ongoing part of life, not just a short term trend.

As a result the council has formulated various plans and schemes to make the switch solar energy easier, as well as educate about the reduction it will bring to energy costs for families and businesses.

For instance the EzyGreen project allows residents to choose what renewable energy options best suits their household and family and provides additional financial assistance on top of what the Queensland government is currently providing.

The Green Hearts program of Brisbane is another holistic approach towards a sustainable future. The program will be assisting the community in aspects of a green economy from schools to households to businesses. The Green hearts program is like many other programs across the country; however the council made sure that it will stand out from the rest by aiding the community extensively throughout the transition.

Aside from encouraging the installation of solar panels in Brisbane the local government also identified solar hot water systems to be a promising way of reducing the strain that electricity bills are causing for so many, as well as reducing carbon emissions. A rebate of $1000 will be given to pensioners who own an eligible system and a $600 rebate for non-pensioners. The city said that solar hot water is currently the cheapest and most accessible form of renewable energy source and it should be given the same credit as that of the solar PV's.

The city's efforts are making great strides already; a climate change advocate website gave credit to the city and said that at the rate Brisbane is going it can reach grid parity earlier than expected. Grid parity will mean that non carbon intensive produced energy will be the same price as standard grid electricity by 2015, and may even be cheaper.

[5.31.11]
National Hardware Show® Gives Record Donation to Opportunity Village

On May 12, the final day of the 2011 National Hardware Show®, exhibiting companies donated 14 trailer loads of products to Opportunity Village, a Las Vegas based non-profit organization that serves people with intellectual disabilities. This collective donation was the largest ever from the exhibitors of National Hardware Show® to its preferred charity – surpassing any previous year by 15 percent, according to Laura D’Amore, director of sales at Opportunity Village. This means more merchandise for the Opportunity Village thrift store, which employs mentally disabled people in the Las Vegas community.
 
“The National Hardware Show is a major contributing factor to our store’s success,” D’Amore said. “Prior to receiving the donations from the National Hardware Show, our thrift division closed three stores and was in jeopardy of closing the last store down. This would have displaced 23 adults with severe disabilities that work in the store, not to mention the needed merchandise offered to the surrounding low income communities. Now every year after the National Hardware Show, the community lines up outside the doors waiting to see the fabulous tools, garden décor and hardware that awaits. It is like Christmas morning for about two months at Opportunity Village Thrift Store.”

This year’s donation – the largest since the National Hardware Show® moved to Las Vegas in 2004 and made Opportunity its preferred charity – was the perfect ending to a successful 2011 Show, which featured more than 2,300 exhibitors across nine product categories: Hardware & Tools; Homewares; Paint & Accessories; Plumbing & Electrical; Storage & Organization; Lawn, Garden & Outdoor Living and Tailgating & Outdoor Recreation; as well as core product categories featured in the Show’s International Sourcing area. "A New Way to Market" was the major theme of the 2011 event, which expanded on an impressive list of global attendees, not only from traditional retail and wholesale outlets but additional channels like grocery, mass, drug, catalog and the Internet - all representing almost $240 billion in sales revenue. [read]

[3.21.11]
Rosendin Electric Rallies to Help Rebuild Haitian Sacred Heart Hospital

Rosendin Electric, Inc., the nation's largest private electrical contractor and a 100% employee-owned company, has been working behind the scenes with their own Haitian Earthquake Relief program. When the Bay Area office was approached by Mazzetti Nash Lipsey Burch (M+NLB) to help find materials needed to rewire Hopital Sacre Coeur in the north Haitian town of Milot, the Rosendin Electric procurement team was able provide electrical supplies, tools, and equipment within two weeks to meet a tight shipping deadline.

As one of the few hospitals still operating after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, Hopital Sacre Coeur was identified as desperately needing a complete upgrade to its electrical system. This 73-bed hospital had an aging and dangerous wiring system, and power for the entire medical center was being provided by a single diesel generator. When M+NLB put out a call for materials to rewire the hospital, Rosendin Electric responded, working with its network of vendors, manufacturers, and distributors to assemble more than $150,000 in donated receptacles, wire, conduit, tools, panels, and more.

"Everyone was eager to help. Along with materials and tools Rosendin Electric had on hand, we were able to get more than 30 suppliers to donate, and those who couldn't donate goods made cash donations to help cover travel expenses," said Bill Barnes, Senior Purchasing Agent for Rosendin Electric. "The response was immediate and generous and should make everyone in our industry proud." [read]

[3.19.11]
Shingobee Builders Earns National Excellence in Construction Award from Associated Builders and Contractors

Shingobee Builders has been honored by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) with an Eagle Award, the highest award in ABC's National Excellence in Construction Awards program, for Shingobee's work on Holiday Stationstore #404 in Minneapolis, MN. Shingobee Project Manager Stacy Gleason received the award February 22, 2011, during the 21st annual Excellence in Construction Awards celebration at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Orlando, Florida.

"ABC congratulates Shingobee Builders for its exceptional work on the Holiday Stationstore #404 project," said Michael D. Bellaman, ABC president and CEO. "This project is an outstanding example of the innovation and commitment to superior craftsmanship that embody merit shop construction." 

Shingobee completed Holiday Stationstore #404 - "Stadium Site" (near the new Target Field) - in December 2009. Shingobee overcame challenges of a brownfield site, schedule changes, and winter conditions to deliver this unique gas station and convenience store in just 15 weeks. [read]

[3.15.11]
Global Crude Forecast 2011

After starting the year at slightly more than $80 a barrel, oil prices this week, rose to their highest level in two years, with West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude surging as high as $90.76 a barrel. But that 13% advance is just the beginning. Crude oil prices are poised to again break the psychologically important $100 a barrel mark in a bid to move higher throughout 2011 and 2012, and some forecasters are calling for prices to zoom by as much as 65% from here.

Kaimon Global analysts believe we will reach triple digits early next year and could reach $150 by mid-summer. Dollar weakness is a factor, as is raising demand from non-OECD [Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development] countries. Other factors include supply concerns, quality of crude extracted, reserve replenishment, level of stockpiles and the occasional saber rattling.But even if crude prices don't reach that admittedly lofty level, there is a strong consensus about the market for "black gold" in the New Year.

There may be zigzags in the future according to the economy, this and that, but the general trend is we will see higher oil prices. [read]

[2.19.11]
High Tech Cogeneration Plant saving 150 Jobs and dramatically lowering Energy Costs by 25 to 30%

Simonds International, a leading cutting tool manufacturer with 179 years of history, decided to purchase a modern CHP (combined heat and power) cogeneration plant. Instead of the conventional design-build, or site-build process, the company decided for a 100% modular “all-in-one” and “connection-ready” cogeneration system to save cost and to reduce technical risk.

The cogeneration process results in overall electrical and thermal efficiencies close to 90%, compared to most utility power plants operating in the 33% percent efficiency range. The plant is an integrated package, fully containerized and will be supplied as a unique “all-in-one” and “connection-ready” module. Benefits over conventional gas engine gensets include much higher overall efficiency, reliability, durability, extended life, fast installation, and less maintenance cost.

Simonds International, headquartered in Fitchburg, MA, is making the move toward clean energy to help combat high energy costs with the implementation of a $5.5 million cogeneration system that will save 150 jobs. This cogeneration plant will produce enough energy to run, heat and cool the Fitchburg plant.

“The investment will dramatically lower energy costs for the company, and protect jobs,” said Ray J. Martino, President of Simonds. “This is our biggest plant and corporate headquarters,” Mr. Martino added. “We employ over 500 people worldwide and 25 percent of our work force is working at the Fitchburg plant. Simonds also has plants in Michigan, Oregon, Kentucky, Alabama, Germany, Honduras and Brazil. Fitchburg's electric rates are the highest, spending $2 million annually on energy costs just at this plant." [read]

[2.16.11]
PhonoSolar at EcoBuild in London

On March 1st through 3rd 2011 Great Britain will host an internationally significant trade fair EcoBuild. The exhibitors will be top international manufacturers and suppliers of modern technologies. Phono Technologies Switzerland will of course be onsite as well. Phono Technologies Switzerland will use the EcoBuild trade fair to introduce its line of photovoltaic panels PhonoSolar and also completed projects of solar power plant. PhonoSolar panels are used for example at the 9th largest photovoltaic power plant in the world – FVE CZECH Vepřek with a total output of 35.10 MWp. This power plant has 186,960 PhonoSolar panels installed.

EFEKTIM, a.s. will also be introduced at the trade fair along Phono Technologies Switzerland AG. It is a company with more than 40 years of tradition – it is one of the top specialists focused on designing, implementing and servicing photovoltaic, wind, hydro and gas incinerating power plants. EFEKTIM operates all over Europe, Africa, near East and newly in USA. It is a renowned expert in the field of engineering, design, optimization, development, financing, testing and ensuing servicing and monitoring of photovoltaic power plants. [read]

[1.27.11]
Rigid Global Buildings Now Offers 30 Energy Star Rated Colors

Rigid Global Buildings, the leading steel buildings manufacturer in the US, is pleased to announce it now has 30 Energy Star approved colors for pre-painted metal roofs and wall panels. Rigid's myriad of Energy Star approved color offerings range from Light Stone to Brandy Wine.

Energy Star cool roof coatings are designed to reduce energy usage, reduce energy bills, and protect the environment. Energy Star qualified roof products for steel buildings reflect more of the sun's rays. This can lower roof surface temperature by up to 10 degrees F thereby decreasing the amount of heat transferred into a building and saving significant air conditioning dollars.

In order for a color to be Energy Star approved, it must have a Solar Reflectance (SR) greater than 0.65 for Low Slope (a slope of 2:12 inches or less) and greater than 0.25 for Steep Slope (a slope greater than 2:12 inches) roofs. Pre-painted metal products have been shown to retain most, if not all, of their solar reflectance properties after three years or more of outdoor exposure.

In today's "Green" economy, Rigid is doing what it can to assist its builders and customers to offer the highest quality steel buildings products, designed to help reduce energy costs and to have a lesser impact in the environment. In addition to the Energy Star rated colors, Rigid also offers a full line of insulated panels to help accommodate projects that require higher insulation R-Values [read]

[1.17.12]
Ethan Allen Furnishes HGTV Dream Home 2012 near Park City, Utah

Ethan Allen celebrates its role as primary furnisher of the HGTV Dream Home 2012. HGTV Dream Home Interior Designer Linda Woodrum showcased the company's furniture, upholstery, window treatments, and accessories throughout the sprawling, nearly 4,000-square-foot, modern, western ranch home.

"This is our sixth consecutive year of furnishing the HGTV Dream Home, and each year is as exciting for us as the first. It's a pleasure to see pieces from our five Signature Lifestyles play such a key part in making this HGTV Dream Home the home that so many would love to own," said Marta Eriquez, Director of Interior Design for Ethan Allen.

Nestled along the picturesque Provo River near Park City, Utah, this year's HGTV Dream Home is the first riverfront home, and it offers beautiful views from every room. The picture-perfect setting offers easy access to world-class skiing, myriad seasonal outdoor activities, and the resort town's most famous annual attraction—the Sundance Film Festival.

The home boasts three bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms, a dedicated entertainment room, and a gourmet kitchen. Boardwalks connect five covered decks, the outdoor living room, the hot tub, and the changing room. Its great room, which was designed to resemble an old stone structure, bridges indoors and out with its many transom and French-style windows.

Inspired by the color of the Utah sky, Woodrum incorporated shades of cool blue throughout the great room—from the houndstooth fabric on the Parker chairs to the ikat artwork above the fireplace to the pinstriped fabric on the Lewis ottomans that she tucked beneath the Turner desk. The palette of hues she saw in the surrounding meadow led her to choose luxurious fabrics in gold, rust, lime, and mocha for the master bedroom. She also used the Maxime nine-light chandelier, Floral wall sconces, Monterey and Baldwin chairs, and the Alison headboard to create a warm and welcoming feeling. “The refreshing blues and sun-kissed green, gold, and rust colors that Linda has placed throughout the home will surely inspire the inhabitants of this modern oasis to feel attuned to its gorgeous surroundings,” said Eriquez.

Only one lucky person will win the HGTV Dream Home 2012, but the design pros at Ethan Allen see every home as a dream home in the making. Ethan Allen’s diversity of styles and its ability to provide nearly everything for the well-designed home has made it a top destination for fashion-forward, one-stop shoppers. Participating Ethan Allen Design Centers will host free Style Workshops in February to help clients create their own dream homes. Visit ethanallen.com for details and a look at how the HGTV Dream Home 2012 came together. Visit HGTV.com for a virtual tour, photos, and the full scoop on the HGTV Dream Home 2012 Giveaway.

[12.08.11]
Human Touch® Adds Financing Option to its Healthcare Professional Program for Chiropractors

Human Touch®, the U.S. market leader of innovative massage chairs, Perfect Chair® Recliners, and other wellness solutions, is pleased to introduce a new financing program to chiropractors, now available through its Healthcare Professional Program. This flexible lease-to-buy financing program, offered in conjunction with NCMIC, the leader in malpractice and financing solutions for chiropractic practices, will be announced this week during the first Joint International Chiropractic Association (ICA)/American Chiropractic Association (ACA) Conference on Chiropractic and Pediatrics, Dec. 9-11, at the Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu, HI.

“Our new financing program through NCMIC makes it easier and more affordable than ever for chiropractors to participate in our Healthcare Professional Program, with flexible lease-to-own financing options that require no upfront deposit,” said David Wood, CEO of Human Touch, LLC. “We believe this program will greatly eliminate the financial constraints that many chiropractors face who want to purchase our state-of-the-art massage chairs, Perfect Chairs, and wellness products for their practice.”

The Healthcare Professional Program is a unique sales and marketing program created specifically for chiropractic offices to enhance their patients’ overall wellness, while enjoying an additional, value-added revenue stream for their practice. Through the program, chiropractors can sell Human Touch® chairs directly to their patients, creating an easy way to add new revenue to their practice. Patients can enjoy the many therapeutic benefits of Human Touch® massage chairs and Perfect Chairs in their chiropractors’ office, which they can then purchase directly from their chiropractor to use in the comfort of their home. Human Touch® handles shipping the product directly to the customer and any service after the sale. The company also provides Professional Program partners with special pricing, all marketing and sales materials, point-of-purchase displays, and support to make the program successful and easy to manage.

According to Dr. Jon L. Stucky, Doctor of Chiropractic and an esteemed member of the Human Touch® Wellness Council, “Using Human Touch® products at my practice has made my care better. Their products serve as a reliable, productive and cost-effective way to reduce my patients’ stress and create a physical and mental release in their day.”

[10.12.11]
Surya President, Satya Tiwari, Named A 2011 Top 25 Entrepreneur

Surya, a leading manufacturer of area rugs and home accessories, announced today that Satya Tiwari has been selected as a 2011 Top 25 Entrepreneur by Business to Business magazine. Each year Business to Business magazine recognizes the top entrepreneurs in Atlanta, Georgia. Winners of this award are entrepreneurs who have created innovative, high-achieving companies that contribute to their industry and business communities.

Since joining Surya in 2004, Tiwari has been instrumental to the growth of the Surya brand and awakening a sleepy industry. Under Tiwari’s leadership the company has grown to $35 million in annual revenues, seeing double-digit growth annually from 2004 thru 2011, a trend that is expected to continue. “Through his innovative ideas and leadership, Satya has created a company that is changing the rug and home accessories industry,” said Sandeep Luke, Head of Business Development at Surya. “As a visionary for this company Satya deserves this honor and all of us at Surya couldn’t be more proud.” Tiwari and all other 2011 award recipients will be honored at the 2011 Top 25 Entrepreneurs and Ones to Watch Awards ceremony on Thursday, November 3rd at the Georgia Tech Hotel and Conference Center. In addition, Tiwari will be profiled in a special section in the November/December issue of Business to Business magazine.

The 2011 Business to Business Atlanta Top 25 Entrepreneur awards are presented in partnership by Business to Business magazine and Gifford, Hillegass & Ingwersen (GH&I).

[9.27.11]
XZipit® By La-Z-Boy® Scores Big With Launch Of The Ultimate Sports Fan Recliner

Just in time for the World Series, and college football, La-Z-Boy announces the launch of a new "must have" game day accessory, XZipit® by La-Z-Boy® recliners. These new recliners allow sports fans to show their team spirit by showcasing their favorite team logos and mascots. The XZipit® team logo panels zip in and out of the seat back, with a patented hidden zipper design for easy customization and an endless array of possible looks or seasonal changes, offering sports fanatics the best seats in the house.

One sports panel comes with the recliner and fans can purchase additional panels from xzipitpanels.com to outfit their game day chairs and display loyalty for their favorite baseball, professional and collegiate teams - and after the final buzzer, the panels can be unzipped in seconds to transform the recliners back to an everyday look.

XZipit panels are available in MLB, NBA, NHL NASCAR, MLS and College logos as well as symbols, military, outdoor collection and other lifestyle designs. Now, devoted fans can equip their family room with a look worthy of the team spirit - and once the season is over, a quick removal of the panel transforms the home back from game-day comfort to everyday coziness.

Because comfort and style preferences vary as widely as sports team loyalties, XZipit® by La-Z-Boy® recliners come with offerings in two different scales: "Champ," a medium-scale recliner, and "Victor," a large-scale recliner.

[7.06.11]
New Product Showcase: HBA Global Expo 2011

This year’s HBA Global Expo offered a first-hand view of the latest skin care formulations, active ingredients, primary and secondary packaging materials, private label offerings, sustainable options, and many more innovations from leading international suppliers:

Ultralash by Cometic Solutions: A unique eyelash conditioner and volumizer that, with daily use, provides noticeable results. Ultra Lash magnifies and creates a flexible, moisture retentive film on the eyelashes. By increasing flexibility and preventing breakage, eyelash hair can reach its full potential. Cosmetic Solutions is the industry’s leading developer and manufacturer of scientifically proven state-of-the art skincare products for renowned skincare leaders and physicians, established cosmetic brands and up-and-coming entrepreneurs.

Strip Melts by NutraFood Nutrients, Inc.: NutraFood Nutrients, Inc., with proprietary technology, has developed a line of Strip Melts, fast-melting oral strips that deliver 5 to 10 times more active ingredients per strip than any other dissolvable film strip in the marketplace today. These proprietary nutraceutical and cosmeceutical strips deliver natural ingredients plus a proprietary blend of NutraFood Nutrients complex of vitamins and minerals with superior bioavailability in an efficient and effective fast-melting oral strip delivery system. The products are in Support of: Skin & Body Anti-Aging, Weight Loss, Bone, Stress Relief, Vitamin D3, and Energy. [read]

[7.06.11]
Novel Ingredients for Skin: HBA Global Expo 2011

As science continues to explore new ways to stem the tide of visible aging, the industry continues to develop a wider range of new generation alternative ingredients for skincare. During this session, a panel of experts discussed new ingredient technologies that range from an overview of the molecular mechanism of the de-pigmenting action of trans-resveratrol, to an exploration of Lucuma seed extract’s potent anti-aging properties to bio-fractions of pea, rice-bran, and yeast and their roles in provising younger-looking and radient skin.

Dr. Leonel Rojo, Ph.D., Post-Doctoral Fellow, Rutgers University provided a glimpse into Pouteria Lucuma, a new anti aging ingredient from Incan Golden Fruit.  [read]

[5.16.11]
OneCoast Joins World Market Center Las Vegas Beginning with Summer 2011 Las Vegas Market

World Market Center Las Vegas announced today a new partnership with major sales and marketing company OneCoast, who will begin exhibiting at Summer 2011 Gift+Home at Las Vegas Market.

The Atlanta-based company is the largest and only national wholesale provider of gift, home, fashion accessories and collegiate products to retailers throughout the United States. Its new showroom, covering more than 11,000 square feet, will be on the 8th floor of World Market Center Las Vegas’ Building C. This space will be the company’s sole west coast flagship showroom. 

“We are excited about our relationship with World Market Center,” said John Keiser, chief executive officer of OneCoast. “We believe this will be another world class showroom for us, and provide an outstanding shopping environment for our West Coast customers.”  [read]

[4.18.11]
Franz Collection Announces New Spring Porcelainsand Fasion Accessories for the Year

Franz Collection Inc. announced this week the new spring 2011 introductions to their globally recognized brand. Over 64 new pieces of functional art and 14 fashion accessories are being debuted at spring trade shows with an amazing reception by all involved! To locate a sales organization representing the Franz Collection please go to Where to Find Franz and select Sales Organizations Locator or email us at info@franzcollection.com 

2011 marks our ten-year anniversary. Beginning in 2011, Franz Collection, Inc. will introduce one commemorative piece for the current year. The commemorative piece will only be available for the year in which it is introduced; after which it will be discontinued. The 2011 commemorative piece is "Spring messenger" Hummingbird Plate.

After the Van Gogh series, Franz Collection, Inc. launched “The realm of dreams – Philadelphia Museum of Art Collection.” On the bottom of each piece of artwork one can find the trademark authorization of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The Franz designers have transformed each canvas into porcelain and have infused the passion in the artwork of Matisse, Gauguin, Monet, Modigiliani, Legér and Juan Gris. By applying coloring and sculpting techniques during creation, the designers have shown the rich quality of each painting. 

Each Van Gogh piece and The realm of dreams piece includes a brochure loaded with information about the line. The brochures include background on the original artists and also the vision of the designer who based the piece from the artwork.  [read]

[4.15.11]
Ethan Allen Furnishes HGTV Dream Home 2011

Ethan Allen has partnered with HGTV as primary furnisher of the 15th annual HGTV Dream Home. Located in Spruce Peak at Vermont's Stowe Mountain Resort, the HGTV Dream Home 2011 seamlessly blends modern architecture and rustic mountain appeal to create a luxuriously livable four-season retreat--dressed to the nines in Ethan Allen style. Linda Woodrum, interior designer for the HGTV Dream Home 2011, selected furniture, fabrics, and decorative accessories earlier this year during a visit to the Ethan Allen flagship Design Center in Manhattan.

"This is the first-ever HGTV Dream Home in Vermont, and it was particularly special for us that among the furnishings Linda selected were pieces hand-crafted at the Ethan Allen workshop in Orleans, Vermont," said Ethan Allen's Director of Interior Design, Marta Eriquez. "This is the fifth consecutive Dream Home that Ethan Allen has furnished and we're always excited to see the outcome," she added.

Approximately seventy percent of Ethan Allen's products are manufactured in the United States and the Ethan Allen workshop in Orleans is just one of the company's six U.S. facilities. [read]

[4.11.11]
McGuire Launches Antalya Outdoor Collection

McGuire, world renowned for its gracefully handcrafted luxury furniture, extends the iconic indoor Antalya Collection to the outdoors. The Antalya Outdoor Collection offers 12 thoughtfully designed lounge, dining and occasional pieces and becomes the latest addition to McGuire's outdoor collections.

Originally inspired by the Mediterranean city bearing the same name, the Antalya indoor collection launched in 2000. Still a successful collection over a decade later, the design features pure, simplified forms enhanced by the geometric pattern of laced rawhide. McGuire has re-imagined many of these timeless indoor collection forms for the out-of-doors.

The Antalya Outdoor Collection is handcrafted from woven resin straps and powder-coated aluminum frames made from 80% recycled material. The designs maintain the integrity and honesty of the original open weave pattern while upholding McGuire's ecological commitment to tread as lightly as possible on the earth.

The seven lounge pieces and five dining pieces represent iconic McGuire design while expressing modern materials, functionality and comfort. The collection bridges the first generation of McGuire – open-frame rattan pole construction – with more contemporary, robust designs. The honesty of the open weave pattern makes clear the fact that it's still McGuire under the surface; precision frames are painstakingly handcrafted from wrought aluminum tubing, offering exceptional strength, durability, and weight.

This collection comes in two finishes: Havana (dark brown/bronze) and a new finish, Driftwood (a weather-worn gray). Driftwood is a versatile, warm neutral, offering a comfortable, lived-in experience to newly constructed spaces while easily fitting into existing environments. [read]

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Award-Winning Kohler Waters Spa Launches Innovative Detoxifying Experience

Pioneering experiential water experiences, Kohler Waters Spa again leads the way in capturing the relaxation and detoxifying benefits of water with its newest experience, Complete Harmony, available June 1 in Kohler, Wis. This all-encompassing 80-minute experience incorporates the latest in therapeutic water treatments and includes multiple signature Kohler Waters Spa services.

Within the newly renovated Stillness and Harmony wet treatment rooms, Complete Harmony will be the first service at Kohler Waters Spa that utilizes two rooms. These rooms, designed specifically to be used together for one treatment, allow the guest to move comfortably from one room to the next in a smooth transition from massage to water treatments.

“Complete Harmony is an all-encompassing experience that combines three unique services concentrating on the therapeutic and relaxation benefits of water, something we know very well and take great pride in at Kohler Waters Spa,” said Jean Kolb, Director of Wellness, Kohler Co. “Complete Harmony focuses on the entire body – from head to toe – enabling the guest to release toxins built-up in the body.”

The start of the Complete Harmony experience takes place in the Stillness Room with a Kohler Signature facial aimed to restore, tone and moisturize the skin. Once the guest is in the ultimate state of relaxation, the experience moves to the Harmony Room where a detoxifying body exfoliation is performed under the KOHLER Custom Vichy Shower, providing a continuous showering of warm water in varying sequences. The Vichy Shower body scrub includes several Olavie Chardonnay products with a leave-in hair and scalp treatment. [read]