Backyard Movie Night was a 3D triple bill. First was ROBOT MONSTER (1953). Having never seen this, I only know its infamous reputation as one of the Worst Films Ever Made. After watching the 3D Blu-ray, I can say that it is like most films given that title: Not even close to the worst.
Like most films given that distinction, this one is just too much of its own weird thing. I certainly wouldn’t call it “good”, but I was glued to the screen nonetheless. It’s almost like outsider art, the way it presents a guy in a gorilla suit and a diver’s helmet and tells us “This guy right here? He’s an alien who managed to destroy all life on Earth. He’s that good.”
(It’s more impressive than the Psychlos defeating all of Earth’s militaries in nine minutes.)
Turns out there are eight people left, so maybe he’s not *that* good. And so in between hanging out in his cave — communicating to his superior on what appears to be a mirror on top of a chest of drawers, working with machines that make bubbles for some reason — “Ro-man” stalks the “hu-mans”.
Ro-man tells the humans that if they give up, he will give them a painless death. Otherwise, they’re gonna take the scenic route to Oblivion.
There are some surprisingly dark moments in this goofy movie, like when the father of the group casually mentions that the gun he’s carrying is not for defense purposes, it’s for taking him and his loved ones out a la THE MIST when the time comes.
Believe it or not, I found it kind of effective, specifically the doom-laden atmosphere of the whole thing. Whenever our hu-mans are looking to come out on top of things, here comes another transmission from Ro-man, pointing at them not unlike those shitty Grim Reaper tattoos that say “YOUR NEXT!” (sic) on them, telling them how their plans won’t work, with Elmer Bernstein’s portentous score of Death blaring over it.
Director Phil Tucker attempted suicide after this movie, and yeah, that tracks, because it’s one of those movies where you can catch traces of the director’s sickness here and there, in between the bad acting and ridiculous scenarios.
The 3D was pretty snazzy; in addition to the bubbles, there’s a nice effect where separate images on the left and right eye overlap.
Anyway, had there been any angora or crossdressing, you’d have the best Ed Wood film that Ed Wood never made.
Next was AMITYVILLE 3-D (1983), with Tony Roberts as a recently-divorced journalist who gets a great deal on a house, on account of that house being the site of a murder-suicide. Soon, the house starts pulling its haunted shenanigans, before upgrading to putting some serious hurt on Roberts and those around him.
Not particularly scary (or good), but I think there’s enjoyment to be had if seen as a 1950s drive-in scare flick updated to the 80s. In an alternate universe, MST3K would’ve covered this during the Joel era, except it would’ve been one of those Film Ventures International pick-ups with opening/closing credits made on a public access-quality character generator, with an alternate title like “Demon in the House” or something.
The 3D added to the fun, with director Richard Fleischer and d.o.p. Fred Schuler showing no shame in shoving objects directly at the audience.
It doesn’t help that Roberts is such a dunce, I get that he has no time for superstitions, but it gets ridiculous. I found myself liking everybody else over him, especially Tess Harper as Roberts’ ex-wife; she gives the best (and most sympathetic) performance. Candy Clark plays Roberts’ partner who spends the entire movie horrified that something really bad is going to happen to her, and then it does; that’s one of my favorite horror tropes, btw, the scaredy-cat/walking self-fulfilling prophecy.
Also, Lori Loughlin and Meg Ryan show up, and while I’m not a big fan of how girls generally looked in the 80s, I gotta say they looked really nice here. (I hope that reads as pervy-uncle as I intended it.)
Last was GOODBYE TO LANGUAGE (2014), in which Jean-Luc Godard presents two couples going through the same thing; buying books, philosophizing, watching DVDs, philosophizing, driving around, showering, philosophizing, walking around naked, philosophizing, taking watery shits in front of each other, philosophizing, and so on and so forth.
Also, there are occasional cutaways to a dog, who is awesome by virtue of the fact that he’s a dog. The narrator and characters all remark at one point or another how animals are better at taking in the world, because they don’t complicate with the kind of bullshit hu-mans are wont to do.
The film is right. Animals rule, hu-mans drool.
I fear I might have made this sound simpler than it plays out. This is Godard, after all, a filmmaker who in his younger years was known for fucking around and breaking rules in with a form of storytelling that he thought was already getting old. If he was bored then, then it shouldn’t surprise you how bored he must’ve been by the time he made this film, in his 80s.
It’s not enough for him to shoot this in 3D, he has to jack around with the format in any way possible. One can imagine Godard feeling like a kid again, doing things with 3D that either you’re not supposed to do, or never thought to do.
He messes with the perspectives, the lighting, the angles. At one point, Godard (and cinematographer Fabrice Aragno) make this odd move of keeping the left lens on a man sitting down on a bench, while moving the right lens away from him as it follows a woman going to talk to another man a couple yards away. I’d close my left eye to see the woman, and then if I closed my right eye, I’d only see the man.
I’m not sure what kind of use could come out of such a technique, but I’m glad Godard actually bothered to do it, because I’m sure it’s the kind of thing a camera nerd will shame you for even entertaining the thought of pulling off. And so I’d like to imagine those very same camera nerds pulling what’s left of the hair on their know-it-all No You Can’t Do That heads.
I feel less enthused about his wild sound mix, which randomly cues tracks from DJs like Beethoven and Tchaikovsky (they make their own beats!), only to just as randomly cut them off. The sound is also all over the place, sometimes playing from the left speaker before moving to the right, and the volume alternates between too low and too loud.
I’m not going to pretend I understood all of it, and I’m not even sure I was supposed to understand *any* of it. It’s very much Godard expressing himself, and he probably couldn’t give a good god damn if you could make heads, tails, or snails from it.
And I’ll be honest, some of it left me thinking that if this had been made by some rando, instead of one of the legends behind the French New Wave, it’d probably end up being covered on some annoying OMG How Did Dis Bad Movie Get Made WTF?!? channel on YouTube, rather than gather awards and accolades by the cine-literati.
But it sure is *something*, and whatever that something is, I felt a feeling throughout that I can’t classify as Negative. Some of it was even pretty funny — intentionally so, even! For The Silo, E.F. Contentmenthttps://www.facebook.com/efcontentment.
As many dedicated foodies will know, hunting for the most incredible food spots when traveling requires a savvy approach. There are plenty of bustling food markets, charming eateries, and hidden culinary gems around the world to explore – but where are the best cities to be a foodie?
To find out, our friends at Spin Genie looked at various factors, such as the average cost of visiting a restaurant in different parts of the world, the cities with the most restaurants, and the most Instagrammable food spots.
Whether you’re looking to try out sizzling street food in Bangkok or seeking the ultimate Michelin-star experience in Paris, we’ll reveal the ultimate travel guide for food lovers and unique spots to indulge in flavourful cuisines from across the globe.
The Best Foodie Cities Around the World
1. George Town, Malaysia – 7.86/10
George Town takes the crown as the best foodie city, scoring 7.86 out of 10. The colourful, multicultural capital is surrounded by stunning colonial streets and is described as a center for vibrant culture, street art, and the country’s best street food.
Also in the top place for its wide range of affordable food spots, George Town has plenty to offer food lovers, from Michelin-starred feasts to street eats. Teksen Restaurant is a top choice, serving delicious dishes since 1965. The well-known Chinese restaurant among its locals has won the hearts of serious foodies with its traditional Cantonese cuisine infused with a local twist.
2. Taipei, Taiwan – 7.31/10
Taipei follows closely behind, scoring 7.31 out of 10. The food capital of Taiwan offers an array of things to experience and explore, from the island’s fascinating temple culture and architecture to its indulgent food at affordable prices.
Some of the best food spots for quality, flavourful dishes and good service in the capital include Din Tai Fung, which has been serving traditional Chinese dishes since its opening
in the 1980s. Another top-rated restaurant is Raw, a French-style restaurant with vibrant cuisine infused with Taiwanese flavours.
3. Osaka, Japan – 7.24/10
Described as the economic powerhouse of the Kansai Region, Osaka is a large port city known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and hearty street food. If you’re looking for some of the best food spots in Japan, Osaka has plenty to offer.
Osaka Cuisine Asai is a Michelin-star restaurant that serves various course meals made with fresh, seasonal ingredients daily. With such a vibrant food scene, it’s no wonder the popular city completes the top three, scoring 7.24 out of 10.
The Most Affordable Foodie Cities for a Quick Bite
1. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Average cost at a cheap restaurant: C$1.98
Chiang Mai grabs first place as the foodie city with the most affordable meals at a cheap restaurant. On average, meals are incredibly inexpensive, costing just C$1.98. Some of the best cheap eats in Chiang Mai include The Breakfast Club, a bakery restaurant at the heart of Chiang Mai, and Tong Tem Toh, a popular restaurant specializing in Northern Thai cuisine.
The Most Expensive Foodie Cities for a Quick Bite
1. London, England
Average cost at a cheap restaurant: C$34.70
London tops the list when it comes to the foodie city you’ll most likely pay more for, even while dining at a cheap restaurant. The capital city harbours some of the world’s best hotels, bars, and restaurants, but sometimes at a hefty price.
With over 300 Michelin-star restaurants in the city alone, it’s no surprise London has a wide range of food hot spots that tend to be more expensive. In fact, on average, you can expect to spend C$34.70 for a meal.
Foodie Cities with the Most Affordable Mid-range Restaurants
1. George Town, Malaysia
Average cost at a mid-range restaurant: C$13.46
George Town tops the list for having some of the most affordable meals at a mid-range restaurant. On average, a meal for two costs as little as C$13.46, much lower than in many other major foodie cities.
One of the most popular areas for street food is New Lane; here, you can find stalls selling everything from BBQ chicken wings to rice noodle rolls at highly affordable prices.
Foodie Cities with the Most Expensive Mid-range Restaurants
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Average cost at a mid-range restaurant: C$160.21
Described as a classy city with many small independent galleries and cafés, Copenhagen offers diverse worldwide cuisines, from Taiwanese to Ethiopian food spots. There are also around 68 Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants within the city.
It comes as no surprise that the city is the most expensive for a meal. As a matter of fact, it costs as much as C$160.21 for a three-course dinner for two. If you’re seeking a Michelin-star experience for a moderate price, Selma is a great restaurant to experience traditional Danish lunch.
The Foodie Cities with the Most Cheap Restaurants
1. George Town, Malaysia
Total number of cheap restaurants: 280
Number of cheap restaurants per 10,000 population: 17.7
With many favourites, such as Siam Road Charcoal Char Kuey Teow, New Lane Street Food stalls, and the Tai Tong Restaurant, it is no surprise that George Town grabs first place as the city with the most affordable joints. There are just under 300 cheap eats to discover in George Town, with roughly 17.7 cheap restaurants per 10,000 population.
The Foodie City with the Most Mid-range Restaurants
1. Paris, France
Total number of mid-range restaurants: 8,410
Number of mid-range restaurants per 10,000 population: 36.6
The capital of France and a major European city, Paris, is one of the global centers for art, fashion, culture, and, of course, food. Known for its cafe culture, there are plenty of opportunities to grab a bite.
Le Truffaut, Maison, and Le Cadoret, which serve classic French food, are just some of the hottest restaurants in Paris right now.
The Foodie City with the Most Fine-dining Restaurants
1. Paris, France
Total number of fine dining restaurants: 709
Number of fine dining restaurants per 10,000 population: 3.1
Once again, Paris tops the list for the foodie city with the most fine-dining restaurants. The city has, on average, 3.1 fine-dining restaurants per 10,000 of the population. From Odette to Atelier Maître Albert, the city has an impressive 709 fine-dining restaurants in total. This comes as no surprise as the famous capital is home to some of the most renowned restaurants in the world.
The Most Instagrammed Foodie Hotspots
1. Melbourne, Australia
Instagram hashtags: #Melbournefoodie
Number of Instagram hashtags: 2.8 Million
Melbourne takes the crown for the most Instagrammed food spot with a whopping 2.8 million posts for the hashtag #Melbournefoodie. Some of the most Instagrammable dining experiences include Sebastian, a restaurant reminiscent of the sunny shores of San Sebastian; The Kettle Black, a café featured in Vogue Living; and Higher Ground, a one-of-a-kind location with three levels of dining space and 15-meter high ceilings.
Highest-earning Influential Foodies
1. Gordon Ramsay
Potential earnings: C$64,965 (£37,740)
When it comes to the highest-earning foodie influencer in the world, it comes as no surprise that the British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay tops the list with an impressive potential earnings figure of C$64,965 (£37,740) per sponsored post on Instagram.
During his career, the multi-Michelin-starred chef has opened a string of successful restaurants worldwide, including the UK, France and Singapore. Also a star on the small screen, Gordon Ramsey has been featured in shows such as MasterChef US, Kitchen Nightmares, Hell’s Kitchen, and Hotel Hell.
Thriving as one of the most famous restaurateurs today, the MasterChef has some top-tier restaurants for foodies to visit, such as the Restaurant Gordon Ramsay located on Royal Hospital Road in Chelsea, London. Holding three Michelin stars, foodies can expect nothing but the finest seasonal ingredients for the most elegant modern French cuisines.
The Best Foodie Cities in the US and Canada
1. Savannah, Georgia – 7.86/10
Savannah tops the list as the best foodie city, scoring 7.86 out of 10, known for its beautiful coastal landscapes, charming architecture, and its rich, vibrant history. The city’s food scene is just as impressive. From plentiful coastal cuisines to flavours from around the world – Savannah knows how to serve a good time and a good meal.
A top foodie destination in Savannah for locals, tourists, and celebrities alike is the Olympia Cafe. After more than three decades in business, the dining establishment thrives, serving up a storm with its much-loved traditional Greek and Mediterranean menu.
2. Las Vegas, Nevada – 7.78/10
In second place is Nevada’s finest – Las Vegas, with a score of 7.78 out of 10. The food scene in Las Vegas has grown to become a so-called “Gourmet Rooms” galore hailed by celebrities.
From Bardot Brasserie to Wing Lei, the first Chinese restaurant in the United States to be awarded a Michelin star, the city has every genre of food imaginable, all at various price points.
3. Atlanta, Georgia – 7.26/10
Ranking in third place is Atlanta, scoring 7.26 out of 10. From century-old diners to award-winning eateries, Atlanta offers some of the best dining experiences in the country and is described as one of the nation’s best food cities. The city caters to all tastes and palates, whether you prefer classic southern cuisines or top-tier modern dishes.
Bacchanalia is one of the top-rated restaurants in the city, offering guests a complete dining experience. You will not be disappointed if you opt for their signature dishes or divine four-course tasting menu.
Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Affordable Quick Bites
1. Savannah, Georgia
Average cost of a meal at a cheap restaurant: C$16.26 (US$12.00)
When it comes to foodie cities with the most affordable meal at a cheap restaurant, Savannah grabs first place with an average of C$16.26 (US$12.00) for a decent plate of food.
If you’re looking for a new dinner spot to try out, Savannah has an array of places to add to your list, including southern favourites such as The Olde Pink House. Whether you’re in search of classic southern cuisines such as shrimp, grits, and buttery biscuits or a plant-based brunch, you won’t run out of options.
Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Expensive Quick Bites
1. Saint John, New Brunswick
Average cost of a meal at a cheap restaurant: C$35.41 (US$26.13)
Home to a variety of cafes and restaurants that offer an array of colourful cuisines, international dishes, and the ultimate Canadian comfort foods, Saint John tops the list as the foodie city with the most expensive meals at a cheap restaurant. On average, you can expect to pay C$35.41 (US$26.13).
Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Affordable Mid-range Restaurants
1. Winnipeg, Manitoba
Average cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant: C$75.89 (US$56.00)
Winnipeg has many great food spots. In fact, a couple of the city’s restaurants are seen as some of Canada’s best eateries, with an average price of C$75.89 (US$56.00). If you’re looking for a trend-setting eatery in Winnipeg, Deer and Almond is the perfect blend of global and local flavours.
Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Expensive Mid-range Restaurants
1. Seattle, Washington
Average cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant: C$162.63 (US$120.00)
Surrounded by the Olympic mountains and evergreen forests, Seattle is a hub for many attractions, entertainment, and food and drink spots. The beautiful food scene in the city offers visitors anything from local seafood to downtown gems.
Whether you want to try classic or unique cuisine, Seattle offers it all, from Pacific Northwest cuisine inspired by Filipino-American flavours to contemporary dishes bursting with rich seasonings. However, these delicious cuisines come with a hefty price tag. The average meal cost at a mid-range restaurant in Seattle is C$162.63 (US$120.00).
The Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Cheap Restaurants
1. Victoria, British Columbia
Number of mid-range per 10,000 population: 11.2
A great place for food lovers to explore and enjoy the local culinary scene is Victoria. The Canadian city has a host of hidden foodie gems and fine dining hotspots that will leave you spoilt for choice.
The city not only has a thriving culinary scene, but it is also the top destination with the highest number of cheap restaurants in both the US and Canada, with an estimated 11.2 affordable restaurants per 10,000 population.
Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Mid-range Restaurants
1. Victoria, British Columbia
Number of mid-range per 10,000 population: 36.7
Also the top foodie city with the highest number of cheap restaurants, Victoria once again tops the list with the highest number of mid-range restaurants in both the US and Canada.
Whether it’s mouth-watering Chinese cuisine or Danish baked goodies, the city has enough colour and flavour to satisfy culinary cravings at any price point. As a result of its large, diverse range of eateries, Victoria has approximately 36.7 mid-range restaurants per 10,000 population.
The Foodie Cities with the Most Fine-dining Restaurants in the US and Canada
1. Las Vegas, Nevada
Number of fine dining per 10,000 population: 2.3
From Michelin-starred restaurants to world-class cuisine, Las Vegas offers a memorable dining experience. The city tops the list with an estimated 2.3 fine dining establishments per 10,000.
Whether it’s indulging in traditional French fare at Joël Robuchon or immersing yourself in the mouth-watering experience of Japanese delicacies at the world-famous Nobu in Caesars Palace, even the most demanding culinary appetite is guaranteed satisfaction.
The Most Instagrammed Foodie Hotspots in the US and Canada
1. New York City, New York
Instagram hashtags: #NYCfoodie
Number of Instagram posts: 2.1 Million
As a city bursting with character, it is no surprise that New York City takes the top spot for the most Instagrammable dining experiences. From floral-covered interior designs to chic modern rooftops, the Big Apple really does have something for everyone.
Filled with iconic landmarks, the popular city bagged over 2.1 million posts on Instagram using the hashtag #NYCfoodie.
Highest-earning Influential Foodies in the US and Canada
1. Chrissy Teigen
Potential earnings: C$182,849 (US$135,150)
With several best-selling cookbooks under her belt, the American model and TV personality Chrissy Teigen is crowned first place as the highest-earning foodie influencer on Instagram across the US and Canada.
The popular star has also been featured on several cooking channels, such as Cookies and Cocktails and Chrissy Teigen’s Hungry. She also launched her own cooking website back in 2019. Therefore it’s no wonder that the well-known star is estimated to make a whopping sum per sponsored post on the social media platform.
Some of Teigen’s favourite food spots include Giorgio Baldi, a popular restaurant on the Pacific Coast and Via Veneto, a lively Italian eatery in Santa Monica that combines organic and locally sourced ingredients with its creative cuisines.
Methodology
Using a list of articles such as Time Out and Luxury Columnist, we created a seed list of the top foodie cities around the world. With this list, we then used Numbeo to source the average cost of a cheap restaurant as well as the cost of a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant. Please note that each currency used was also taken from Numbeo. This data was collected on 01/08/2023.
Then, using Trip Advisor, we gathered data on the number of cheap, mid-range, and fine-dining restaurants by using the relevant filters on the site. The data collected was solely based on the number of restaurants from within each city, not including nearby areas. Data collection of this was completed on 21/08/2023.
To calculate per 10,000 population, we used City Population to search for each city’s population. We took the most current data available for each location and only considered cities with more than 50,000 population. This data was completed on 16/08/2023.
To find out which cities are the most Instagrammable, we used Instagram to search for various hashtags relating to each city e.g. #[CITY]foodie. This data collection was completed on 22/08/2023.
Using various articles from Google, our friends also compiled a list of the top foodie influencers, considering how many followers they have on the social media platform. We then calculated their highest estimated potential earnings per sponsored post by using the Instagram Influencer Sponsored Post Money Calculator. The data collection for this section was completed on 23/08/2023.
From Stranger Things dropping the first teaser for its final season to Sex Education Season 4, September is shaping up to be an exciting month for TV fans. New research has revealed the most popular TV series and Stranger Things tops the list. *costs are listed in USD
Our friends at Spin Genie have looked at a range of factors including the cost of the pilot episode, annual Google searches, number of Instagram posts and TikTok views as well as the IMDb rating of the world’s most popular TV series to determine the most successful series of all time.
The most Googled TV shows:
Rank
Show
Annual Google searches
1
Stranger Things
191.3 M
2
Game Of Thrones
69.2 M
3
The Walking Dead
54.1 M
4
Bridgerton
22.5 M
5
The Witcher
21.7 M
6
Westworld
17.1 M
7
The Mandalorian
15.7 M
8
Narcos
11.0 M
9
Orange Is the New Black
10.3 M
10
13 Reasons Why
10.2 M
The most searched for TV show is Stranger Things, with over 191 million annual searches. The show is also Instagram’s most popular TV show with over 15.5 million hashtagged posts on the app.
Taking the second spot is Game Of Thrones which receives nearly 70 million Google searches each year. The series was a worldwide success, with media attention lasting for eight years while the show was on air, drawing over 18.1 billion TikTok views and 13.8 million Instagram posts.
The Walking Dead takes the third spot with 54.1 million Google searches annually. The Walking Dead revolutionised the zombie apocalypse genre and captured the attention of millions of viewers across the world.
The research also revealed the top 10 most successful TV shows of all time:
Rank
Show
Pilot Budget
Google Searches
Instagram Posts
TikTok Views
IMBD Rating
Success Score
1
Game of Thrones
$10.0M
69.2M
13.8M
18.1B
9.2
9.64
2
Stranger Things
$6.0M
191.3M
15.5M
130.2M
8.7
8.10
3
The Mandalorian
$12.5M
15.7M
2.4M
4.6B
8.7
7.86
4
The Walking Dead
$3.4M
54.1M
7.9M
21.0B
8.1
7.50
5
Narcos
$2.5M
11.0M
722.3K
44.7M
8.8
6.43
6
Bridgerton
$7.0M
22.5M
737.0K
17.4B
7.4
6.19
6
Westworld
$25.0M
17.1M
410.0K
277.7M
8.5
6.19
8
The Witcher
$10.0M
21.7M
1.3M
3.3B
8.1
6.07
9
House of Cards
$5.0M
7.0M
454.4K
145.3M
8.7
5.84
10
The Crown
$13.0M
589.2K
571.3K
5.1B
8.6
5.83
Game of Thrones tops the listof the most successful TV shows, scoring 9.64 out of 10. The series is the highest-rated of any of the TV shows on the list, with an IMDB rating of 9.2 out of 10 and has also inspired 13.8 million Instagram posts, the second highest total of any shows.
In second place is Stranger Things with a score of 8.1. The popularity of this series has influenced the charts, with Kate Bush’s Running Up That Hill re-entering the charts after appearing on Stranger Things. The series has more Google searches and Instagram posts than any other show in this study, even though the pilot episode budget was just $6 million.
Rounding out the top three with a success score of 7.86 is The Mandalorian. The Disney+ exclusive’s third season stars Pedro Pascal, and the show’s pilot episode is reported to have cost $12.5 million. The series has 15.7 million annual Google searches, 2.4 million Instagram posts and an impressive 4.6 billion TikTok views.
Further findings:
Vinyl has the most expensive pilot episode of any of the TV shows profiled. Created by Mick Jagger and Martin Scorsese, the first episode cost a reported $30 million but failed to generate enough attention for a second season.
When it comes to TikTok, The Walking Dead tops the list as the most popular TV series totalling more than 21 billion views on the platform.
Narcos has the cheapest pilot debut of the series profiled, costing $2.5 million. Despite this, the show has gained a following of fans and has over 722,000 Instagram posts about it. Narcos also achieved a high rating of 8.9 on IMDB.
“This generation of Americans has a rendezvous with destiny.” President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, June 27, 1936
A Rendezvous with Destiny: 1930s American Art, the new online exhibition from Helicline Fine Art, has started and runs through November 5, 2023. The exhibition features a variety of artistic styles and subject matters from urban, industrial and rural to abstract, people working and scenes of everyday life. For New York City based artists, the City itself was glorified on canvas, paper and bronze. Several of the artists who thrived during that period are still well known today, but most are obscure.
The exhibition, of predominantly 1930s artworks, features that range. The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s new exhibition, “Art for the Millions: American Culture and Politics in the 1930s” celebrates the American spirit during the depression era and serves as the inspiration for Helicline Fine Art’s new exhibition.
After the stock market crash of 1929, Americans experienced a time of great transition at every level of society. After a terrible slump, the men and women of the country came together to rebuild the economy, their lives and their spirits. For the first time, our government paid artists to create. To this day, many Federal buildings – post offices, court houses, schools, hospitals, administrative buildings – still have the murals of WPA artists emblazoned on the walls and statues standing in courtyards. The work of these artists reflected that renewal.
The artists of that generation are being rediscovered in 2023 and for generations into the future, thanks to the Met’s new exhibition, and galleries that keep the modernist art flame burning. Helicline’s proprietors, Keith Sherman and Roy Goldberg, recall discovering the WPA period. “We had just moved into our first apartment, constructed in 1929, on the Upper West Side. In attempting to furnish our home we realized we had no sense of style or taste. We spent time in the Strand Book Store to see what homes looked like in the 20s and 30s,” said Goldberg. “We discovered Art Deco, the Machine Age, the WPA and more.
We spent time in museums, art fairs and something that has disappeared from the cultural landscape, antique shows, where we developed our eye. Today we are collectors turned dealers still collecting. The WPA period is in our hearts,” added Sherman.
Highlights of A Rendezvous with Destiny: 1930s American Art include a bold Stuart Davis gouache on paper; a “Mercury” bronze by Joseph Freedlander that sat on top of 5th Avenue traffic lights from the 1930s-60s; two works by Daniel Celentano (Thomas Hart Benton’s first and youngest student), many works depicting New York City, including a Cecil Bell of street life under the EL train and a Reginald Marsh depicting the Brooklyn Bridge, mural studies, and a Mervin Jules oil of a tailor with astonishing perspective.
MORE ABOUT HELICLINE FINE ART:MORE ABOUT HELICLINE FINE ART:Helicline Fine Art,founded in 2008 by Roy Goldberg and Keith Sherman, specializes in American and European modernism. The gallery’s core offerings are works from the WPA period. Additionally, Helicline offers American scene, social realism, mural studies, industrial landscapes, regionalism, abstracts, and other artwork. Located in a private space in midtown Manhattan, Helicline is open by appointment. The artworks on the site represent a sampling of available works. Helicline’s offerings are also available on artsy.net and 1stDibs.com.
Los Angeles, CA … Lawyers for Donald Trump on Monday asked the federal judge presiding over his election subversion case in Washington to recuse herself, saying her past public statements about the former president and his connection to the January 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol call into question whether she can be fair.
“Regardless of anyone’s personal opinion on the matter, Donald Trump’s motion for recusal has merit under the express provisions of 28 U.S.C. § 455, which requires a judge to recuse himself or herself in any proceeding in which [her] impartiality might reasonably be questioned. It is irrelevant whether the judge is actually biased. The U.S. Supreme Court squarely addressed this issue in Liljeberg v. Health Services Acquisition Corp., 486 U.S. 847, 860, which held that recusal is required even when a judge lacks actual knowledge of the facts indicating his interest or bias.
Judge Chutkan
Here, Judge Tanya Chutkan has made previous comments such as ‘Presidents are not kings, and Plaintiff is not a President’ and, in a December 2021 sentencing hearing, she stated, ‘the issue of who has or has not been charged is not before me. I don’t have any influence on that. I have my opinions, but they are not relevant.’ She has therefore publicly acknowledged her bias, which, at the very least, creates an appearance of partiality. This is nevertheless an uphill battle, as the motion has been submitted to Judge Chutkan, who will rule on this motion.
Having litigated this issue extensively in Angelica Limcaco v. Steve Wynn, Case No. 19-15949 (9th Cir. 2020), Donald Trump has to navigate a difficult path because the optics are problematic for him. The Justice Department will likely argue that Judge Chutkan has no financial interest, or something to that effect. Of course, if the motion is denied, the decision could result in an interlocutory appeal that may delay the case,” explained Jordan Matthews, a litigation partner at Weinberg Gonser LLP.
– Versatile music streamer offers exceptional sound quality and easy setup – Boulder, Colorado, September, 2023 – PS Audio is now shipping its AirLens music streamer, designed to deliver the ultimate in sound quality from streaming audio sources. The new AirLens (SRP: US $1,999.00 / CAD $2,709 ) offers high-resolution streaming via Roon and services such as TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify, JRiver, and Audirvana, as well as from an NAS storage device or any DLNA-compatible server.
“The secret of the AirLens’ exceptional sound quality is its galvanic isolation,” noted Paul McGowan, PS Audio CEO. “Removing the physical connection between input and output stages eliminates the unwanted noise that can be introduced by USB, Ethernet or Wi-Fi. The AirLens also perfectly re-clocks the digital signal. The result is a remarkable improvement in resolution, timbral realism, and dynamics.”
The PS Audio AirLens connects to a network via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, and provides I2S and coaxial digital outputs to connect to a DAC. Typically, noise from any number of sources including a computer, long runs of Ethernet cable, EMI interference via Wi-Fi, and modems and routers all contribute to increased jitter and a loss of fidelity. PS Audio’s galvanic isolation removes this sonic degradation by eliminating the electrical connection between the input and output stages, using only air as the interface. This ensures 100 percent isolation and noise-free delivery of the digital audio signals. In addition, the signal is re-clocked at the output stage for jitter-free, pure digital audio.
Available in silver and black, the AirLens offers PCM decoding up to 352.8 kHz, and DSD to 256 (4x). Its compact size (10 by 7 by 1.5 inches) and sleek design make it easy to integrate into any audio system. Like every PS Audio product, the AirLens is manufactured using premium-quality parts and construction.
AirLens Features at a Glance:
Galvanically isolated from input to output to eliminate network and Wi-Fi noise and offer extraordinary signal purity and sound quality. Connects to a network via 10/100/1000 Ethernet or 2.4 and 5 GHz Wi-FiI2S and coaxial digital outputs. Offers PCM up to 352.8 kHz/32-bit and native DSD up to 256 (4x, up to DSD 128 via coax output)DoP (DSD over PCM) operation. Roon-ready, DLNA-ready, compatible with TIDAL Connect (via Roon), Spotify Connect, mconnect, Qobuz (via Roon and mconnect), Dropbox (via Roon), MQA, DLNA 1.5 and UPnP A/V 1.0 Digital Media Renderer. Available in silver or black10″ x 7″ x 1.5″, 4.8 lbs.
About PS Audio
Founded in 1973, PS Audio has earned a worldwide reputation for excellence in manufacturing innovative, high-value, leading-edge audio products. Located in Boulder, Colorado at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, PS Audio’s staff of talented designers, engineers, production and support people build each product to deliver extraordinary performance and musical satisfaction. The company’s wide range of award-winning products include the all-in-one Sprout100 integrated amplifier, audio components, power regenerators and power conditioners.
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools have far-reaching implications for education and research.
Yet the education sector today is largely unprepared for the ethical and pedagogical integration of these powerful and rapidly evolving technologies.
A recent UNESCO global survey of over 450 schools and universities showed that less than 10% of them had policies or formal guidance on the use of GenAI applications, largely due to the absence of national regulations. And only seven countries have reported that they had developed or were developing training programmes on AI for teachers.
The new guidance, recently launched during UNESCO’s flagship event Digital Learning Week in Paris, calls on countries to implement appropriate regulations, policies, and human capacity development, for ensuring a human-centred vision of GenAI for education and research.
What the guidance is proposing
The guidance presents an assessment of potential risks GenAI could pose to core humanistic values. It offers concrete recommendations for policy-makers and institutions on how the uses of these tools can be designed to protect human agency and genuinely benefit students, teachers and researchers.
The guidance proposes seven key steps for governmental agencies to regulate the use of GenAI in education:
Step 1: Endorse international or regional General Data Protection Regulations or develop national ones. The training of GenAI models has involved collecting and processing online data from citizens across many countries. The use of data and content without consent is further challenging the issue of data protection.
Step 2: Adopt/revise and fund national strategies on AI. Regulating generative AI must be part and parcel of broader national AI strategies that can ensure safe and equitable use of AI across development sectors, including in education.
Step 3: Solidify and implement specific regulations on the ethics of AI. In order to address the ethical dimensions posed by the use of AI, specific regulations are required.
Step 4: Adjust or enforce existing copyright laws to regulate AI-generated content: The increasingly pervasive use of GenAI has introduced new challenges for copyright, both concerning the copyrighted content or work that models are trained on, as well as the status of the ‘non-human’ knowledge outputs they produce.
Step 5: Elaborate regulatory frameworks on generative AI: The rapid pace of development of AI technologies is forcing national and local governance agencies to speed up their renewal of regulations.
Step 6: Build capacity for proper use of GenAI in education and research: Schools and other educational institutions need to develop capacities to understand the potential benefits and risks of GenAI tools.
Step 7: Reflect on the long-term implications of GenAI for education and research: The impact and the implications of GenAI for knowledge creation, transmission and validation – for teaching and learning, for curriculum design and assessment, and for research and copyright.
A human-centered vision for digital learning and AI
UNESCO is committed to steering technology in education, guided by the principles of inclusion, equity, quality and accessibility. The latest Global Education Monitoring Report on technology in education highlighted the lack of appropriate governance and regulation. UNESCO is urging countries to set their own terms for the way technology is designed and used in education so that it never replaces in-person, teacher-led instruction, and supports the shared objective of quality education for all.
Change directionswith this counterclockwise watch!
A watch that ticks to the beat of the Universe
The Raketa Watch Factory releases a re-edition of one of its most popular models: the Raketa “Russian Code” with its counterclockwise hands.
A lightly brushed silver stainless steel case with a spherical sapphire glass, a matt grey metal dial with a 3D representation of the Earth, and a black genuine leather strap give a very classic look to this watch.
However, behind the discreet design lies a revolutionary concept: the concept that time should move in harmony with the natural counterclockwise movement of all the planets in our Solar System. You will notice that the second hand (with the Moon at its tip) also rotates in a reverse direction around the planet Earth that is in the centre of the dial.
You will see through the case back a beautifully decorated automatic movement entirely manufactured and assembled at the Raketa Watch Factory in Saint-Petersburg.
Are you ready to move on to the new generation of watches that tick to the beat of the Universe?
A watch that invites you to be different
To wear this watch, you will have to break free from the most fundamental rule of time-reading — the clockwise movement of time that was taught to us from ancestral times.
Indeed, early people read the time with sundials by observing the clockwise movement of the sun in the sky (from left to right) and of the corresponding shade on the dial (from right to left). When our ancestors finally invented the concept of hands (instead of shade) moving around a dial, they naturally decided to keep this clockwise movement that they observed in nature.
However, there is a serious flaw in this decision: the Sun doesn’t move clockwise in the sky. It’s an illusion — it actually doesn’t move at all. It is the Earth that moves in a counterclockwise direction around the Sun!
The Raketa Watch Factory corrected this mistake by designing a watch where the movement of time follows the natural movement in the Universe.
This watch is certainly not for the faint-hearted but rather for people who are willing to stand out from the crowd and be different!
A watch with a very special movement
The counterclockwise movement of the hands is powered by a very special Raketa automatic movement (2615R). The engineers of the Raketa Watch Factory inverted the movement of the hands by changing the construction of the 2 most important parts of the mechanical movement: the mainspring barrel and the escapement! This engineering feat could only be accomplished because Raketa produces in-house 100% of these parts.
A watch that is true to Raketa’s DNA
By following the movement in the Solar System, this watch underlines the link between Raketa and the Cosmos: the brand Raketa (which means “Space Rocket” in Russian) was created in 1961 in honour of the first manned flight in space by the Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin. Since then, Raketa’s designers and engineers were always inspired by space and regularly made watches for cosmonauts and watches celebrating the Solar System.
Price
This edition is limited to 500 watches with a price of 1500 Euros (without VAT). All Raketa watches are delivered worldwide by DHL free of charge.
The specifications:
Factory:
Raketa Watch Factory (Saint-Petersburg)
Movement:
Calibre:
2615R
Functions:
Automatic with reverse direction of hands
Number of jewels:
24
Testing positions:
4
Average rate (s/d):
-10+20
Average running time (h):
40
Frequency/hour:
18.000 / 2.5Hz
Bi-directional automatic winding:
Yes
Stopper of self-winding unit activated during manual winding:
JOIN ME FOR THESE UPCOMING FALL SHOWS Fall is almost here and I’ve got a ton of great events coming up, including this weekend’s much-anticipated Long’s Park Amphitheater Art Festival in Lancaster, PA. These shows are more than just shopping experiences; they’re opportunities to connect with passionate artisans and discover one-of-a-kind pieces. They’re also a great way to start your holiday shopping early (or grab some special pieces for yourself). Can’t make it to the shows? Swing by the Baltimore showroom in Cross Keys or shop all of my new pieces online at rebeccamyersdesign.com. See the full list of events on my events page… https://www.rebeccamyersdesign.com/events Looking forward to seeing everyone! xo, Rebecca
SAINT LOUIS ART FAIR September 8 – 10 | Downtown Clayton | St. Louis, MO This year we will celebrate our 30-year history of the art fair — still attracting high-quality artists and celebrating the diversity of the community through a celebration of the Arts. The Saint Louis Art Fair (SLAF) produced by Cultural Festivals has been working diligently to Reconnect Through Art with the health and safety of artists, volunteers, and the public as its top priority. TICKETS & INFO CRAFT NEW YORK September 30 – October 1 | Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center | NYCNYC’s most unique curated shopping event! Find wearable art like clothing, jewelry and handbags; home decor such as functional and sculptural works in ceramics, glass, metal, wood and mixed media; as well as fine art painting, printmaking and photography; and more. All handmade and all unique! Also, make sure to visit the expanded gourmet foods and specialties boutique including distillery and winery tastings. TICKETS & INFO THE WALTERS ART GALA: AN EVENING AT THE WALTERS October 21 | 6pm | The Walters Art Gallery | Baltimore, MD My favorite party is coming up! The BEST night out in Baltimore is also a great way to support one of our most wonderful institutions. Get your tickets for the Walters Gala! Don’t miss it! PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS
It’s time for training, rookie! Get Wanted: Dead on sale for PC, PlayStation and Xbox!
Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland., – 110 Industries is enrolling its next class of recruits for training! Wanted: Dead, the action-packed cyberpunk hybrid slasher/shooter experience, is on sale this week for PC, Sony® PlayStation 5®, PlayStation 4® and Microsoft® Xbox Series X/S®. Get an edge on the other rookies and jump start your training with up to 50% off!
The Wanted: Dead End of Summer Sale is in effect today through September 4. Purchase your copy of Wanted: Dead at 25% off for the PC now at the Steam store!
110 Industries is slashing 50% off the price of Wanted: Dead for Xbox from August 29 – September 5.
Wanted: Dead will be 50% off for Sony’s PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 from August 30 – September 13.
Wanted: Dead was developed by Soleil, the makers of Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive. Play as Lt. Hannah Stone, the no-nonsense ass kicking leader of the Zombie Unit, a special team of former war criminals operating within the ranks of the Hong Kong police force. Use your guns, grenades and sword to eliminate the enemy with razor sharp combos and over 50 finishers.
Wanted: Dead is available now for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
About 110 Industries 110 Industries is video game publisher with a focus on original and licensed IPs. Our goal is to publish original properties, like Wanted: Dead, Vengeance is Mine and Red Goes Faster. Along with original gaming IPs, 110 uses their in-house marketing and financing to secure third-party publishing rights for large and smaller scale independent projects. Working with the best professionals around the globe, our mission is to provide creative freedom for talented individuals and inject fresh energy into the video game industry. Our strong core values encourage creativity, bold design choices and innovation. See what we have to offer at www.110Industries.com
Surfshark’s most recent Digital Quality of Life (DQL) Index ranks Canada 26th in the world by overall digital wellbeing and is outranked by the U.S. Our country has dropped by six positions since last year’s edition, falling from 20th to 26th.
The study covers 92% of the global population and indexes 117 countries by looking at five fundamental pillars of digital life – internet affordability and quality, e-infrastructure, e-security, and e-government.
Below you’ll see the key findings about Canada:
Canada’s internet affordability ranks 33rd in the world. To afford mobile internet, Canadians have to work 60 times more (4 min 57 s/month) than Israeli citizens, for whom the most affordable 1GB package costs only 5 s of work monthly. Meanwhile, fixed broadband costs Canadian citizens around 84 minutes of their precious working time each month.
The global digital divide is now deeper than ever
Globally, broadband is getting less affordable each year. Looking at countries included in last year’s index, people have to work six minutes more to afford broadband internet in 2022. In some countries, such as Ivory Coast and Uganda, people work an average of 2 weeks to earn the cheapest fixed broadband internet package. A similar trend was observed last year. With the current inflation, the pressure on low-income households that need the internet has become even heavier. Surfshark’s study also found that countries with the poorest internet connection have to work for it the longest.
Canada’s internet quality, considering internet speed, stability, and growth, ranks 23rd in the world and is 29% better than the global average.
Since last year, mobile internet speed in Canada has improved by 5% (4.7 Mbps), and fixed broadband speed has grown by 12.4% (20.7 Mbps).
Compared to the U.S., Canada’s mobile internet is 15% slower, while broadband is 9% slower.
Out of all index pillars, Canada’s weakest spot is e-security, which needs to improve by 60% to match the best-ranking country’s result (Greece’s).
Global overview: Overall, 7 out of 10 highest-scoring countries are in Europe, which has been the case for the past three years. Israel ranks 1st in DQL 2022 pushing Denmark to second place after its two-year lead. Germany ranks 3rd, and France and Sweden round up the top five of the 117 evaluated nations. Congo DR, Yemen, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Cameroon are the bottom five countries. For the Silo,Paulius Udra.
Supplemental- According to our most recent search Engine result, The world’s most expensive country for fixed-line broadband is Eritrea, with an average package price of $2,666 usd per month.
Toddlers are great. They are curious, active, and love learning. For them, every moment is an exciting opportunity to learn something new. Toddlers are continually focused on experiencing positive emotions. They are not focused on negativity, nor do they hold grudges for a lifetime. That is why it’s so fun to be around them.
No matter how fun they might be, it is up to their caretakers to provide them with the best possible surroundings.
When playing, toddlers don’t think much about food and drinks, no matter how hot it may be outside. This is why it is up to adults to mind their nutrition and to keep them hydrated all year round.
Here is how to keep them fresh on hot summer days and create safe playtime.
Hydration Comes First
Drinking enough water every day is important for many reasons, no matter the temperature, as it helps regulate body temperature, keeps joints lubricated, and helps organs function properly. If you live in a hot climate, you already know how important it is to have a bottle of water of your own.
To help your toddler refresh, keep a bottle of fresh spring water by your side and give him some sips on a regular basis, especially if you notice less energy and lower playfulness. Sometimes toddlers can not tell that they are thirsty so their bodies will try to communicate it.
Put A Hat On
Most effective tips are usually the most simple ones. Use a hat to keep your toddler well-protected. When shopping for the perfect hat, focus on finding the one with a wide brim and a flap to cover the neck.
When you are there shopping, get a hat for yourself as well. Seeing you with your own hat, your kid will understand that it is important to wear one and will do the same as you.
If Possible Avoid The Car
Cars are heat traps. On hot days it is really challenging to sit cool inside your car – it is easier if you have the right air conditioning. If possible, on hot days, walk to the park. If you have to use your car, think about traveling earlier in the morning or later throughout the day. If you have a dog, the same car rules apply.
Extra Tips On How To Refresh A Toddler On Hot Summer Day
1. Fill up the paddling pool
2. Get a nursery thermometer
3. Create a breeze
4. Ventilate your home
5. Use appropriate bedding
6. Give them a quick bath
7. Check toddlers temperature
Put yourself in their shoes. Treat your toddler as you would treat an adult. Do not overdress your toddler just because you think it’s too cold for him.
Ask yourself – is it really that hot? Would I be comfortable wearing this? Don’t forget to talk with your pediatrician if you have any questions or concerns about keeping your toddler safe in the heat.
No matter where you might be, or if you are staying all day indoors, make sure that you have fresh spring water on you – it will keep both you and your toddler well-hydrated and active.
One of my newest cheese loves is not a new cheese at all, but, actually, the traditional cheese of Spain. Manchego is a smaller wheel of Spanish sheep’s milk cheese that just makes the mouth water. It is regulated by Spain under the PDO (Protected Designation of Origin), which was granted through the European Union. (in a nutshell, PDO allows for exclusive food/geographical production so for example, in Europe, Parma Ham can only be sold and labelled as Parma Ham if it originated in Parma see link below for more CP ) This means that it must meet specific regulations in order to be called Manchego. It must be made from whole sheep’s milk taken from animals that have grazed in autumn in La Mancha province. Finished cheese must be aged from 60 days to 2 years. The milk must contain at least 6% fat and each stone, or wheel, of cheese must weigh between 2 and 3.5 kg.
There is a distinctive pattern engraved in the inedible brown rind of the cheese.
Originally, the Manchego curd was hand pressed in plaited esparto grass baskets. The grass was taken from the same fields where the sheep grazed, and the grass-flowers pressed into the top. Today, however, press moulds are formed using the traditional pattern and the grass baskets have been phased out of production. Still, the traditional zigzag is how you can recognize Manchego at your favourite cheese shop—and always look for the PDO label.
The inside of the cheese, or the paste, is an off-white that hints at golden. As the cheese gets closer to the rind, the colour progresses to more of an umber. Very small pockets of air are produced as the cheese ages and releases co2.
But enough of all this—the important part of Manchego is the taste. It has a wonderful, mellow flavour that is rich and subtle at the same time. There are slight hints of smoke, woody nuts, tobacco, honey and leather, and it finishes with the distinctive taste that only sheep’s milk can give you. Manchego can be served with olives, sundried tomatoes or hearty crusty bread. It pairs easily with a fine Rioja red wine or a fruity sherry—a wonderful way to stay warm on a winter’s evening.
Recently I heard that Manchego, cut in smaller chunks and dipped in honey poured on a plate, makes a fine conclusion to full meal. I tried this desert idea and the flavours of honey and cheese together are just wonderful. The smoky taste that coats the taste buds is a joy.
For the more daring, this traditional dessert of Spanish Manchego and honey also pairs well with a fine Cuban cigar. Enjoy your cheese.
Waaay back in 2007 the “Govinator” raised a few eyebrows at Ottawa’s Westin Hotel. After taking in a Sen’s hockey game, Arnold made an unscheduled stop for a 16$ Partagas Cuban
As a double immigrant who worked his way through high school and university, I am a big believer in the lifelong benefits of working on the front line, early in life. My first job was an eye opener to say the least.
As a double immigrant who worked his way through high school and university, I am a big believer in the lifelong benefits of working on the front line. My first job was in frontline customer service at age 16 for Canada’s largest sports store chain, Collegiate Sports (now Sport Chek), in a flagship mall in Toronto. I started as a salesclerk selling shoes, retail apparel, ski equipment, and stringing tennis racquets.
As a student athlete, I was fortunate to work in a large sports department store situated in a multicultural city and to serve all kinds of people across various ages and income groups.
Our customers ranged from consummate “old stock Canadian” athletes, who were fanatical about every detail when ordering custom equipment, to wide-eyed gullible immigrants whose children were seeking to learn a new sport like ice hockey or snowboarding. It was a fast paced atmosphere with dense traffic in the evenings and buzzing with energy on the weekends like a casino hotel on the Las Vegas strip.
It was also a very demanding job because it required being on your feet for 8 hours per shift and being constantly “switched on” to anticipate customer needs. Employees engaged in their first front line customer service role developed emotional intelligence through hundreds of daily interactions with customers. Over time, I learned how to read customers’ non-verbal facial expressions and body language, which varied widely by their ethnicities, stage of life, and other factors.
The job required meticulous knowledge of every major sporting activity, current and incoming inventory, and prices for disparate product lines and brands while also including labor intensive tasks such as tagging the products, stocking the shelves, and cleaning the store after hours. Determining the best allocation of shelf space was a key decision. There were no “smart technologies” such as sensors, cameras, big data, and analytics used by retailers today to manage inventories and shelf-space. Hence arranging the optimal product assortment on the floor to generate traffic was an essential part of the job that required teamwork and an entrepreneurial mindset of experimentation through trial and error.
The store manager was a flamboyant French-Canadian named Guy who was a die-hard Montreal Canadiens fan with a profound sense of humor.
Typical of 1980s Toronto, the staff was composed of up-and-comers, including many Asian, European, and Caribbean immigrants. Guy was great at motivating staff, casting people in the right departments, creating internal sales contests, and holding us accountable. He had a keen eye for talent and was adept at identifying and investing in adaptive learners who could conquer a multifaceted department such as ski equipment or hockey skates by efficiently conveying product knowledge to outsell others.
Guy’s greatest skill was building an informal talent marketplace to grow the business in one of the world’s most diverse cities. He understood that a high performing diverse team of employees who felt like the store was their own business would not just generate loyal customers but grow the sports retail business by engaging new communities. Under his leadership, the store became an incredibly diverse meritocracy of over 500 full time and part time employees: Caribbean kids rose from selling track shoes to managing winter sports and Asian women ascended from selling apparel to assistant manager roles overseeing budgets and purchasing. I remember training a Jamaican immigrant, who happened to be the best sprinter in Toronto, how to string tennis racquets at optimal tensions depending on the player’s style, and she taught me about the subtle differences in track and field spikes depending on specific events and surfaces.
Like any store environment, it was not always pleasant. When the store missed its numbers by a wide margin, Guy scolded us for not being sufficiently productive.
He would curse at us with Quebecois nouns, poke fun at our beloved Toronto Maple Leafs, and if revenues were under budget, walk us back to his office which doubled as “banc des pénalités” (“penalty box”). His diminutive office was adjacent to the boisterous warehouse receiving truck shipments, welding, and assembling equipment. Here Guy would shout out the disappointing financial results and present the dormant inventory and the blue-collar workers whose strenuous labor made it possible for us to sell these products on the floor. He reminded us that even the most talented players end up in the penalty box and cost their team when they fail to play together and trust their teammates.
Over the course of four years, this job taught me three things I would use in the rest of my career: First, the benefits of building a high-performing team of diverse colleagues who could teach each other through an apprenticeship model rather than formal training; second, how professional development is accelerated by highly demanding customers who make purchase decisions in a matter of seconds; and third, how the real world has a magical way of revealing where your greatest talents reside, even if it contradicts what your teachers and test scores suggest are your perceived strengths.
In my last year on the job, Guy got promoted to regional VP overseeing 100 stores in Eastern Canada.
Still, he sought me out once every few months. In our last few meetings, he expressed his gratitude that I helped recruit tens of what he called “gens talentueux” or highly talented and diverse employees – mostly high school athletes and musicians – that drew waves of new customers into his stores and grew the business. The last few times we met, Guy tried to persuade me to become a store manager and retail executive like he was. As an Asian immigrant with Ivy League dreams, I was not ready to take the store manager career path.
However, years later after graduate school and a stint in management consulting, I joined the hospitality industry where I was able to harness this cross-cultural competence to achieve breakthrough results. And when I became an operating executive and eventually a hospitality CEO, it made an even bigger difference. Thanks to years on the front line, I was able to swiftly unearth customer needs, connect deeply with front line employees and build collaborative cross-cultural teams. My front line experience was most helpful in relating to employees in emerging markets such as Shanghai where I had no prior work experience, did not speak the language, and had to motivate migrant workers, mostly mothers living apart from their children.
It was my years serving on the frontline in retail, sports, and healthcare that taught me to how to collaborate with colleagues, look customers in the eye and resolve their complaints, form teams to solve thorny problems, and meet the litmus test of becoming a leader by identifying and developing other people’s talents.
Service industries are not just the largest employers: they are engines of human development for communities, cities, countries, and entire civilizations. From the United States to China and Saudi Arabia, business, and government leaders “get it” and are investing billions to rebuild human capital in hospitality centric service industries after the pandemic. These diverse stakeholders recognize the critical role of service industries in rebuilding their countries, diversifying their economies, and facilitating meritocracy for domestic and foreign employees of all ages, races, ethnicities, and genders.
Surprisingly, their efforts are increasingly lost on the workforce. Instead, a talent disruption, powered by innovative technologies such as generative AI, changing attitudes towards work-life balance, and a growing mistrust of capitalism and governments is changing the equation. Millions of Gen Xers and Millennials are choosing the gig economy or hybrid jobs where they can effortlessly circumvent human interaction and avoid the discomfort of face-to-face conflicts. Groundbreaking technologies such as generative AI may accelerate this talent disruption, further distancing employees and contract workers and hence brands from their customers.
Consequently, brands that achieved differentiation through personalized service may suffer from commoditization. What is more troubling are the long-term career development implications for individuals, especially Gen Xers and Millennials who are set to become the next generation of service managers and grew up performing these gig economy jobs.
Driving around town and leaving bags at a front door with pictures, communicating via text confirmations, and receiving tips based on algorithms is not an equivalent experience to being on the frontline in a service operation.
It may provide contractors with flexibility and income, but it comes at the cost of a lack of learning and customer contact that will serve to stunt their professional growth. What is the solution here? Given this historic talent disruption, what is the path forward for business and government leaders in industries such as hospitality, retail, and healthcare that are experiencing long-term labor shortages and growing unionization? Should employers, including entrepreneurs such as franchisees, increase their investments in acquiring, developing, and compensating talents? Or should they invest in AI and other technologies to automate and reduce their investments in building human capital? What other alternatives, if any, exist?
It’s the 9th anniversary of China’s 2014 Moon landing and it deserves special attention. Many Westerners are unaware of their impressive accomplishment because for the most part it was not reported in the mainstream media. Even now, getting information on China’s mission is challenging and the reports that are readily available seem to be from non-Western sources such as Al-Jazeera or in the case of the following video: WION- India’s self proclaimed “first world news network”.
Something else you may be unaware of
Tiangong, officially the Tiangong space station, is a permanently crewed space station constructed by China and operated by China Manned Space Agency in low Earth orbit between 340 and 450 km above the surface. wikipedia
Should we be surprised that these nations are eager to distribute their news and accomplishments? China and India are the main rivals to the United States in terms of Space launches and exploration and if they are ahead of the West then chances are no one here wants to run headlines emphasizing this fact.
The politicization of space is not a new concept.
Shortly after the end of World War 2, Russia and America (using captured Nazi German rockets and scientists) relied on their own geniuses such as Sergei Korolev and Katherine Johnson in a heated race to enter space and to push forward with the goal of landing a man on the Moon. President Lyndon Johnson called this “the ultimate high ground“. Russia did not succeed in a manned Moon landing but they did successfully land an advanced Rover which was controlled from the Earth by a team of operators. Clearly the Moon is an important place to visit even at incredible risk and financial cost.
What compelled China to show up decades later than the USA?
"It was confirmed as a new mineral by voting by the New Mineral Classification and Nomenclature Committee (CNMNC) of the International Mineralogical Association (IMA). This mineral is the sixth new mineral discovered by humans on the moon."
What can we expect next? China is planning a crewed landing. America is planning a crewed landing. It’s a brand new space race. For the Silo, Neil Corman.
As the sun rises and the weather gets warmer, it’s time to revamp our breakfast routine to embrace the flavors of summer. A nourishing and refreshing morning meal is essential to fuel our bodies and minds for the day ahead.
Say goodbye to heavy and hearty breakfasts and say hello to delightful summer breakfast ideas that will leave you feeling energized and ready to take on the world. Let’s dive into a collection of mouthwatering recipes that celebrate the abundance of seasonal fruits, light and cool creations, and hydrating options to keep you cool all summer.
Iced and Refreshing Beverages
Cold Brew Coffee: Beat the heat with a refreshing black cold brew coffee. Serve it over ice with a splash of almond milk and a drizzle of honey for a smooth and satisfying coffee fix.
Iced Herbal Teas: Sip on iced herbal teas for a caffeine-free, hydrating option. Brew hibiscus, mint, orchamomile tea bags and let them cool in the fridge. Add a squeeze of lemon and a touch of honey for natural sweetness. These thirst-quenching teas are perfect for a laid-back summer morning.
Fresh and Fruity Delights
Smoothie Bowls: Start your summer mornings with a burst of tropical flavors in a smoothie bowl. Blend your favorite fruits like ripe mangoes, juicy pineapples, and sweet strawberries. Add coconut water or plain yogurt for a creamy texture. Top it off with sliced kiwi, chia seeds, and granola.
Fruit Salads: Elevate your regular fruit salad with zesty citrus flavors. Combine watermelon cubes, tangy oranges, and succulent blueberries. Drizzle honey and lime juice for a burst of freshness. This colorful medley will brighten your mornings and keep you hydrated.
Cool and Creamy Creations
Overnight Oats: Beat the morning rush with overnight oats. Layer rolled oats, almond milk, and a dollop of plain yogurt in a jar. Add a generous amount of sliced peaches, raspberries, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Seal the jar and leave it in the fridge overnight. Wake up to a ready-to-eat, cool, creamy breakfast that keeps you full until lunch.
Chia Seed Pudding: Indulge in a velvety chia seed pudding. Combine chia seeds with coconut milk and a hint of vanilla extract. Let it sit in the refrigerator overnight until it thickens. Top it with juicy pineapple chunks, shredded coconut, and a drizzle of honey. This delightful treat will satisfy your sweet tooth without weighing you down.
Light and Refreshing Options
Avocado Toast: Elevate the classic avocado toast by adding colorful vegetables. Mash ripe avocados onto whole-grain toast and layer it with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach. A sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of lemon juice enhances the flavors, making this a light and nutritious breakfast option.
Greek Yogurt Parfaits: Create delicious and visually appealing yogurt parfaits—alternate layers of Greek yogurt with fresh berries, granola, and a drizzle of honey. The creamy yogurt and sweet berries will be the perfect harmony of flavors to kickstart your day.
Grilled and Savory Delicacies
Grilled Vegetable Frittatas: Turn your favorite summer vegetables into a delectable frittata. Grill zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes until slightly charred. Whisk eggs and pour them over the grilled veggies. Bake until the frittata is golden and puffy. This savory delight is packed with nutrients and will satisfy you until your next meal.
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagels: Elevate your bagel game with smoked salmon and cream cheese. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on a toasted whole-grain bagel. Top it with luscious smoked salmon, thinly sliced red onions, and a sprinkle of fresh dill. This gourmet breakfast will transport you to a breezy seaside cafe.
With these delightful summer breakfast ideas, you can infuse your mornings with the season’s essence. Embrace summer fruits’ vibrant colors and flavors, indulge in light and cooling options, and start your day refreshingly.
These recipes will make your breakfasts a delightful celebration of the summer season. So, rise and shine to a wholesome and nourishing breakfast that will keep you energized and ready to make the most of your morning.
LOS ANGELES, Calif. –It’s not just people who are experiencing a high rate of being overweight. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), 54% of dogs in the country are considered overweight or obese. That adds up to 50 million dogs in the USA (and much more taking Canada and Mexico pet dogs into consideration) with an increased risk for health problems. This year, as people strive to make changes to improve their own health, Just Food For Dogs is setting out to give people assistance in getting their pet healthier, too.
“What we are doing is making it easy for people to help give their pets healthy food that they can feel good about,” explains Dr. Oscar Chavez, a professor of canine clinical nutrition and staff veterinarian for Just Food for Dogs. “We stick with making wholesome pet foods from good ingredients. Our foods will give dogs the nutrition they need and help improve their quality of life with every bite.”
APOP also reports that overweight and obese dogs are at an increased risk for having chronic inflammation, a reduced life expectancy, skin disorders, orthopedic disease, cancer, kidney dysfunction, respiratory disorders, and metabolic and endocrine disorders. Focusing on improving pet health can help avoid problems and can keep them feeling well.
Here are some tips from Dr. Chavez for helping to get dogs healthy:
Focus on fitness. In addition to taking your dog on walks (or runs) and playing fetch, focus on agility exercises. Look online to create your own obstacle course that will have your dog jumping, swimming, balancing, crawling and tunneling. Is it safe to put your dogs to work? Strength training is important and can be done by fitting your dog with weighted harnesses or latching it to light wagons or sleighs. However, this should only be attempted with properly trained dogs that are already conditioned and are deemed healthy by their veterinarian – just as you wouldn’t jump into strength training – they must ease into it.
Doggy diet do-over. Most commercial dog food is highly processed and can be made with byproducts from the 4 D’s (dead, dying, diseased or drugged) animals, this includes the popular raw diets. Traditional pet food can also contain toxins and cancer-causing agents. Seriously consider changing your dog’s diet to a lightly cooked, fresh, whole-food recipe.
Learn more about pet foods. It’s important to know about what pets need to be healthy and what should be avoided. Use only fresh whole food (ground beef, fish, broccoli, sweet potatoes, carrots, etc.), and avoid excess fillers that only fatten your pet. Veggies must be cooked, not served raw, as pets may not derive their full nutritional value when served raw and it can be tough on their digestive tract. No spices should be used as you would in human food as it disturbs their digestive system and can cause pain and intestinal problems. Once any potatoes are cooked to the desired level, immediately add ice to halt the cooking and cool the food. This will preserve the maximum nutritional value of the food.
Don’t just read my mind. Like people, dogs thrive on mental stimulation to keep them happy. A bored dog can become depressed, anxious and even ill. You can extend your dog’s life and enrich it by keeping them busy. As they age, keep their mind active with training, socialization, games, one-on- one attention, and other enrichment activities. Doggie daycares are a great way to let your dog stay stimulated when the alternative is to be home alone all day.
Sink your teeth into this one. Dental hygiene is an often-overlooked aspect of pet care. Many of us simply forget to brush our dogs’ teeth on a daily basis. Unfortunately, poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque, gingivitis, and eventually, periodontal disease, a bacterial infection of the mouth that has been linked to heart disease and organ damage. It’s a myth that kibble helps break down tartar – the only thing that will work is daily brushing, so make it a priority to brush your dog’s teeth at least once a day!
“Research shows that a focus on your dogs’ fitness leads to better fitness for yourself,” adds Dr. Chavez. “This is a lifestyle change that selfless and selfish at the same time. Make this the year where you and your dog get healthy together!”
Focusing on wholesome nutrition and freshness, the company doesn’t use any types of preservatives, growth hormones, BHA, BHT, pink slime, or artificial colors. All of their foods are made from recognizable ingredients that are approved for human consumption, lightly cooked, vacuum sealed, and immediately frozen. They remain good for up to 12 months in the freezer, or 3-6 days once in the refrigerator. Their collection of meals includes, turkey and whole wheat macaroni, beef and russet potato, chicken and rice, fish and sweet potato, lamb and brown rice, and venison and squash, and a line of prescription diets used by veterinarians to manage disease.
“Our mission is to help give people a way to get their pets healthier,” added Shawn Buckley, the founder of Just Food for Dogs. “Our dog food is created by dog lovers who want pets to be happy, healthy, and live longer lives. We treat your pet just like we treat our own.”
About Just Food for Dogs
The Just Food for Dogs kitchens and pantries are located in southern California in Costa Mesa, West Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, Manhattan Beach, Capistrano Beach, Downtown Los Angeles, Anaheim Hills, Long Beach, Glendale, Del Mar and Mission Viejo. The company also offers online recipes for those who want to make their own small batch pet meals from scratch at home. The company has a veterinary nutrition team of nine veterinarians, including a board certified veterinary nutritionist, a board certified veterinary toxicologist, and a board certified veterinary dermatologist. The company also offers treats, supplements, veterinary support recipes, and one recipe for cats. Their foods are also available online and can be shipped nationally.
[CHICAGO – August, 2023] – Alex Katz: Autumn is the artist’s tenth solo exhibition at GRAY and the first exhibition of large-scale landscapes since 2018. The exhibition follows his lauded career retrospective, Gathering, which opened at the Guggenheim Museum in New York in the fall of 2022. As Guggenheim curator Katherine Brinson described: “[One] might be surprised by the unbound rapture of the landscape paintings that have consumed much of the artist’s still-considerable energy in recent years. But [these works] are in fact the culmination of a lifelong artistic project that aspires to compress everything into ‘a single burst of energy… to paint it wide open.'”
Alex Katz has painted figures and landscapes in equal measure throughout his career. Expressed at great scale and in vivid color, the paintings exhibited in Autumn present enveloping compositions measuring as wide as fourteen feet. “I started to think about the environmental landscapes [as] being really an environment that wraps around you,” as Katz notes, “There is no narrative. You’re dealing with perception.”
Wedding Dress by Katz shows how much of a departure his new landscape paintings are.
Across eleven monumental canvases, Katz depicts the vibrant foliage, sweeping fields, and windblown trees of the changing season. Created between 2022 and 2023, Katz’s Autumn series relies on a bright fall palette, while other paintings in the exhibition, from the related series Field’s End and Tree Top, present quieter responses to the landscape in muted greens, yellows, and grays. The paintings are exhibited alongside a series of sixteen new portraits on paper. Each drawing possesses an economy of line and is titled after its sitter – Vivien, Niki, Levi, Isaac, Vincent, and others– in reference to the friends, family members, poets, dancers, and artists most central to the artist’s life.
Alex Katz: Autumn opens at GRAY Chicago (2044 West Carroll Avenue) with a public reception on Friday, September 8, from 5-7 PM CT, and will be on view through October 28, 2023. The exhibition will be accompanied by a fully illustrated catalogue featuring a new poem by Vincent Katz.
Keep your conversations and audio completely private with newly debuted technology featured in the nwm MBE001 True Wireless On-Ear Speakers ! In addition to proffering stellar audio quality and comfort, they also notably prioritize privacy via advanced “Personalized Sound Zone” tech that eliminates sound leakage while letting ambient sounds in, keeping conversations and other audio private (even if someone is sitting right next to you) while also maintaining situational awareness and ability to engage with others. The North Star Boys group (55+ million followers strong) pictured/quoted below are praising this comfortable, non-invasive on-ear speaker that can be used in public spaces without disturbing the wearer’s surroundings—or having prying ears listening in no matter how close the other person is.
Japanese Tech Behemoth ‘NTT’ Launches Next Generation of Open-Ear Wireless Earphones Only the Wearer Can Hear
Prioritizing Privacy: NTT subsidiary, NTT sonority, introduces ground-breaking, true wireless on-ear speakers featuring proprietary Personalized Sound Zone technology that eliminates sound leakage while letting ambient sounds in for utmost situational awareness;
Founders of the leading Asian-American creator group and pop band the North Star Boys, 55 million+ social media followers strong, praise the nwm-branded MBE001 wireless headphones—the latest innovation in the company’s ambitious R&D pipeline—which keep the listener’s audio private while enabling human connectivity, conversation and engagement fostering seamless sound for a seamless world
With the global earphone and headphone market’s size forecasted to grow to USD $126 billion usd / $170 billion cad by as soon as 2030, numerous factors are propelling the category to these extreme fiscal heights. This includes rising customer expectations for increased audio quality coupled with the expansion of the music industry, mobile technologies and Internet penetration at large. Earphones have also become a ubiquitous accessory for the numerous ways the device enhances daily lives. From 2-way communication, music, entertainment, fitness and gaming immersion to more utilitarian needs like concentration, noise cancellation and hearing protection, earphones enrich the human experience in so many ways. As this sector burgeons, one visionary company realized the still untapped potential of this product category and is single-handedly taking earphone technology to exciting new heights: NTT sonority—Japan’s audio brand that is a subsidiary of NTT, which is a leading global technology company.
This tech behemoth has significantly raised the bar and is permanently disrupting the market with the launch of its ground-breaking nwm MBE001 True Wireless On-Ear Speakers, now available at www.PersonalizedSoundZone.com, featuring its proprietary “Personalized Sound Zone” (PSZ) Technology. Revolutionizing the way we experience audio, the PSZ innovation allows users to enjoy audio with utmost privacy, situational awareness, sound quality and comfort. The technology minimizes audio leakage by containing sound to the ear, enabling users to use this on-ear speaker in public spaces without worrying about disturbing their surroundings—or having prying ears listening in … even if they are sitting or standing right next to you. This audio technology advancement is at the product’s core, providing users with the ultimate private acoustic space and balanced sound experience allowing them to hear their world differently than ever before.
“It is important for users to remain connected to their environment while indulging in their favorite audio content, and this additional safety element is among the key features setting nwm MBE001 apart from other earphones on the market—both wireless and wired,” said Hiroshi Sakai, NTT sonority Managing Director and CEO. “The technology enables users to enjoy their own personal sound zone without disturbing those around them or allowing them to accidentally or intentionally listen in. With the nwm MBE001 open earphones, audio is confined to within a few centimeters of the ear, ensuring music, audiobooks, videos, conversations and other sounds remain entirely private. These earphones concurrently allow users to stay aware of what’s around them, but without compromising audio quality, comfort or discretion. The wearer will hear more and miss less.”
So noteworthy the innovation, the music industry is quickly taking notice. This as the wildly popular Asian-American creator group and pop band The North Star Boys founded by brothers Sebastian Moy and Oliver Moy, which boasts over 55 million followers combined on social media platforms and a reported 20 million monthly views on their syndicated Snapchat shows, is praising the earphone advancement.
“I’ve always wished for headphones that don’t go directly inside my ear but also have perfect sound that cancels out noise,” Sebastian said. “I’m so happy to use NTT sonority’s nwm wireless headphones! They’re super comfortable and the special technology prevents other people from listening in, even if they’re sitting right next to me. Favorite headphones!”
Oliver Moy is also spreading the love for NTT sonority’s newest earphones, sharing, “Been using the nwm wireless on ear speakers for a couple of days now and, as a music producer, these on-ear speakers bring great quality with great practicality for everyday use. Cannot leave to the gym without them, as they are very comfortable and do not slip off my ear like other ear speakers… and they feel weightless while sitting on my ears.”
User Experience is Everything
The nwm MBE001 on-ear speakers are thoughtfully designed to address numerous factors that directly impact user satisfaction. These key benefits include:
Reduced audio escape for utmost privacy.
These earphones feature “PSZ Technology” creating a Personalized Sound Zone, which reduces audio leakage and ensures a private audio experience … whether that be a conversation, music, video or any other sound source. The PSZ technology resolves the long-lamented sound leakage problem, finally allowing users to listen to music, audiobooks, phone calls and attend online meetings in cafes and other public spaces with peace of mind.
Balanced listening comfort. In addition, the nwm MBE001 open-ear speakers offer balanced listening comfort by not blocking the ears, allowing users to hear ambient sounds and even their own voice clearly. The 12mm diameter drivers provide a natural listening comfort, similar to listening to background music, allowing a unique and equitable listening experience both through and outside of the earphones. Perfect for those who frequently use online communication, the open ears make it easy to speak without blocking the sound of your own voice.
Situational awareness and interaction. Because the device is not inserted inside the ear canal and does not block the ears, users can engage in natural conversations with people around them … even while listening to music or any other audio. They no longer have to remove the device when paying at the cash register, asking a quick question at the gym or responding to co-workers. Most importantly, users can remain alert to the sounds of approaching cars and other possible hazards—fostering potentially life-saving situational awareness.
Superior sound quality. Advanced sound technology allows users to experience crystal-clear audio. These on-ear speakers deliver rich, balanced sound across all genres, elevating the music listening experience to new heights.
Seamless wireless connectivity: The latest Bluetooth technology provides hassle-free pairing and a reliable, uninterrupted wireless connection that allows users to move freely, without any limitations.
Customizable sound via a dedicated app. nwm Connect (for iOS and Android only) is a dedicated app available as a free download. The EQ feature allows you to select your favorite preset and enjoy the sound that best fits to your environment.
Ultra-comfort for extended wear. The earphones are also ultra-light, weighing only 9.5g, ensuring those using the nwm MBE001 wireless on-ear speakers can avoid fatigue from extended use. Its ultra-lightweight, ergonomic design, coupled with the stability of the ear-hook, reduces stress on the ear amid prolonged wear.
Extended battery life: The built-in microphone and zero need to continually recharge throughout the work day or night makes these earphones ideal for remote work and online meetings. Users can enjoy conversations, their favorite music and other audio all day long. The nwm MBE001 wireless on-ear speakers boast an impressive battery life, ensuring the earphones are always ready whenever needed. Moreover, the included charging case and cable provides convenient on-the-go charging.
Button controls: Effortlessly control your audio experience with a simple physical button built into the wearable device. With a simple push, you can play.
“We are committed to pushing the boundaries of audio technology and delivering innovative products that enhance our customers’ audio experiences and lifestyle overall,” Sakai continued. “Our relentless pursuit of balance between sound pressure, quality, ergonomics and aesthetics has led to the disruptive, cutting-edge design of our new nwm MBE001 wireless on-ear speakers. They are not just about sound, but rather connection as they offer a new way of engaging with the world … complete with your very own Personalized Sound Zone. With them, you’re in tune with your world by being in control of your sound.”
Revolutionary Technology
NTT sonority’s journey taking the nwm MBE001 wireless on-ear speakers from concept to product launch was marked by countless trials and adjustments to balance sound pressure and quality while minimizing sound leakage. The company’s PSZ technology is a key innovation that applies the principle of noise cancellation by producing an inverted soundwave to neutralize sound. Unlike conventional audio devices that house the speaker unit in a box to prevent interference, PSZ technology has redefined this norm by confining sound within a 360-degree radius around the ear to minimize sound leakage. This non-directional speaker design offers stress-free, continuous listening without the pressure or vibrations associated with bone conduction earphones.
To incorporate PSZ technology into the nwm MBE001 on-ear speakers , the company had to reduce the size of the speaker units to their smallest possible dimensions. The challenge was to maintain sound quality while achieving sound pressure in the ear. The unique approach of using the inverted waveform from the back of the speaker to cancel out sound has also led NTT sonority to undertake R&D on both aircraft seats that provide a more private acoustic space as well as automobile seats that allow different audio playback for each user—all to improve comfort in ground and air transport vehicles WITHOUT using earphones or headphones. The ability to enjoy audio comfortably in a private space will make long journeys more enjoyable and comfortable while also enabling seamless communication with those around you.
For the Silo, Anne Gold.
About nwm
NTT sonority’s New Wave Maker (nwm) audio brand was created in November 2022 with the goal of creating an optimal audio experience. The company aims to expand its audio solutions to address future ways of working and living by creating not just a sense of immersion, but the comfort of being connected. Learn more at us.nwm.global .
About NTT sonority
NTT sonority is an audio engineering-focused subsidiary of NTT, which is a leading global technology company providing services in over 190 countries and regions to consumers and business as a mobile operator, infrastructure, networks, applications and consulting provider. The company’s mission is to foster connection through sound, by letting people choose what they want to hear, and what they want others to hear. The company’s core R&D in sound physics and related hardware powers ground-breaking consumer product lines as well as B2B use cases with wide societal impact. Learn more at https://ntt-sonority.com/en.
As searches for “European holidays” skyrocket by 6700%¹, a must-visit list of the best cities in Europe has been announced.
Our friends at Spin Genie analyzed the average price and the number of days it would take to view the tourist attractions of major European cities to create a list of the 11 best places to visit in Europe.
11 of the Best Places to Visit in Europe:
City
Country
Average Hotel Price (per night)
Recommended Length Of Stay
Rome
Italy
€70-€200
5-7 days
London
England
£100-£300
4-5 days
Paris
France
€100-€300
4-6 days
Amsterdam
Netherlands
€80-€200
3-5 days
Prague
Czech Republic
€60-€150
3-4 days
Barcelona
Spain
€80-€150
5-6 days
Santorini
Greece
€150-€300
3-5 days
Budapest
Hungary
€70-€150
4-5 days
Reykjavik
Iceland
€100-€200
3-4 days
Berlin
Germany
€70-€150
3-4 days
Vienna
Austria
€80-€150
3-4 days
Dom Aldworth, Head of Brand Marketing at Spin Genie says “As one of the most influential continents in the world, Europe is home to a vast range of diverse and culturally rich countries. From impressive historical architecture to quaint towns and delicious foods, every country offers travelers a unique and vibrant experience.
“Whether you want to indulge in fine French cuisine, relax in ancient baths or transport yourself back in time, Europe is the perfect place for bucket list adventures.”
Dom continued “Budget-conscious travelers will be pleased to discover that several affordable cities offer incredible experiences without breaking the bank.
“Budapest is often regarded as one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe. With its affordable accommodation options, reasonably priced dining choices, and inexpensive public transportation, visitors can explore the city’s stunning architecture, relax in its thermal baths, and indulge in its vibrant nightlife without straining their wallets.”
The team also named their top 5 un-missable tourist attractions.
Trevi Fountain, Rome
“One of Rome’s most famous landmarks, the Trevi Fountain is a bucket list attraction.” Dom at Spin Genie comments “Toss a coin into the stunning Trevi Fountain, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Admire its Baroque design, intricate sculptures, and cascading waters, and make a wish for your return to the Eternal City.”
The London Eye and Tower Of London, London
London has a range of iconic landmarks, from historic buildings such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London to Big Ben, Tower Bridge and the London Eye.
Eiffel Tower, Paris
No visit to Paris is complete without a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Ascend to the top for panoramic city views or enjoy a leisurely picnic in its surrounding gardens.
Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam
The world’s only floating flower market, Bloemenmart is the perfect place for lovers of colour, beauty and flowers to visit. Admire colourful displays of flowers, bulbs and souvenirs and take home a piece of Amsterdam’s floral heritage.
Santorini Volcano, Santorini
Take a boat trip to Nea Kameni’s and Palea Kameni’s volcanic islets. Hike up to the active volcano’s crater, bathe in the hot springs, and learn about the volcanic geology that shaped the island.
FAQs
What are the most beautiful cities in Europe?
Beauty is subjective; however, there are a few European cities that are renowned for their beauty.
Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, boasts a wealth of artistic and architectural treasures. The city’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and attractions like the Florence Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio showcase its artistic grandeur.
Other beautiful cities include Paris, Prague, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Vienna, Santorini, and Rome.
What are the largest cities in Europe?
The largest cities in Europe by population include Moscow, London, Saint Petersburg, Berlin and Madrid.
Moscow, the capital of Russia, stands as the largest city in Europe, both in terms of population and geographical expanse. This thriving metropolis blends a rich history with modern cosmopolitanism. From the iconic Red Square and the majestic Kremlin to the opulent St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow showcases a fusion of grandeur, architectural marvels, and cultural treasures
What are the oldest cities in Europe?
Europe is a treasure trove of history, and it’s home to some of the oldest cities in the world. These cities have witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the birth of civilizations, and the shaping of European culture.
Plovdiv, located in Bulgaria, is one of Europe’s oldest cities, with evidence of settlement dating back over 8,000 years. The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts well-preserved Roman ruins, including an ancient theatre that is still in use today.
Other cities include Athens, Rome, Cadiz, Argos, Larnaca, and Byblos.
Which are the cheapest cities in Europe to visit?
Budget-conscious travellers will be pleased to discover that several affordable cities offer incredible experiences without breaking the bank.
Budapest is often regarded as one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe. With its affordable accommodation options, reasonably priced dining choices, and inexpensive public transportation, visitors can explore the city’s stunning architecture, relax in its thermal baths, and indulge in its vibrant nightlife without straining their wallets.
Some of the most affordable cities in Europe to visit include Krakow, Lisbon, Warsaw, Athens and Bucharest.
What are the safest cities in Europe?
Europe is generally considered safe, but some cities have lower crime rates than others.
Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is often ranked as one of the safest cities in the world. With its efficient public transportation system, well-maintained streets, and low crime rates, Zurich offers a safe environment for travellers to explore its beautiful Old Town, enjoy the pristine Lake Zurich, and immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
Other safe cities include Copenhagen, Vienna, Helsinki, Stockholm, Munich, Amsterdam, Geneva and Oslo.
What are the most romantic cities in Europe?
When it comes to romantic cities in Europe, certain destinations evoke a sense of enchantment and timeless love. Paris, often called the “City of Love,” tops the list. With its charming cobblestone streets, beautiful parks, and stunning landmarks, Paris provides the perfect backdrop for romantic strolls, candlelit dinners, and unforgettable moments.
Other cities include Venice, known as the “Floating City,” which is a dreamlike destination that exudes romance; Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, captivates with its timeless beauty and artistic heritage; Santorini, a picturesque Greek island and Prague, with its fairytale-like architecture.
These cities have an irresistible charm that evokes romance and captivates the hearts of couples seeking a truly enchanting experience.
A behind the scene look of the conceptual artist’s solo show SHADOWLAND
It is the first Saturday of Upstate Art Weekend and I am standing in a chemistry classroom of a former public school looking at inverted works, listening to Gregorian chants meets Jimmy Hendrix inspired music, and feeling that I am falling into a trance. In reality, I am meeting the artist Margaret Innerhofer for the first time at her solo show SHADOWLAND, at Ethan Cohen Gallery at The Kube Art Center in Beacon, NY. The renowned gallery describes her exhibition as: “Photo-based prints and framed canvases that explore the transitional spaces between spiritual and psychological borderlands. Each of the large-scale meditative compositions printed in color has a jarring and surreal black and white reflection that invites the viewer into an alternate psychological and temporal dimension.” So, what is behind these works laden with heavy and deep symbolism of awake versus sleep? I sat down with the elegant and stylish Margaret to understand how a dreamy child from the Tyrolean mountains became a philosophical artist in Beacon, NY. It turns out that we are all in a trance.
SHADOWLAND at Ethan Cohen Gallery at The Kube Art Center in Beacon
Let’s begin with your upbringing. Where were you born and raised?
I was born, and raised in the Tyrolean Alps, Italy, immersed in the idyllic beauty of its nature and harmonious sounds. My childhood was filled with long mountain climbs, horseback riding, yodeling, playing the guitar and drums, and singing Gregorian chants in a strict convent boarding school. I found fascination in Western movies and the Apache Indian lifestyle, particularly their deep connection with nature and the imagery of wild horses roaming freely in vast deserts, accompanied by their rhythmic chants and drum circles. These early experiences forged a profound bond with the natural world, which continues to be a driving force behind my visual and sonic artistic expression.
SHADOWLAND at Ethan Cohen Gallery at The Kube Art Center in Beacon
What was your first introduction to art, and how did you start evolving as an artist?
During my Architectural and Fine Art studies, I relocated to Milan, a city that would leave a lasting impact on my artistic path. Dating an artist during that time exposed me to a bohemian lifestyle and immersed me in Milan’s dynamic art, architecture, and design scene. The conceptual and minimalist concepts of the Arte Povera Movement captivated me, drawing me deeper into the contemporary art world. Socially engaging with fellow artists and actively attending art shows in galleries and museums across Italy and Europe, I was inspired by the diverse expressions of creativity. My early fascination with photography, particularly the works of conceptual artists from the Dada and Surrealist Movements, like Man Ray and Andre Breton, further fueled my artistic interests. This multifaceted exposure played a pivotal role in shaping me as an artist. It broadened my horizons, offered fresh perspectives, and allowed me to find my own artistic voice.
DECONSTR-ACTIVIST II, 2023
You now have a solo show called SHADOWLAND at Ethan Cohen Gallery at The Kube Art Center in Beacon, NY. What is the main inspiration for the three different series: Sandmen, Heavy Metal, and Deconstr-Activist?
In my latest exhibition, I delve into the intricate realms of the subconscious, guided by profound philosophical and scientific readings. Carl Jung’s exploration of collective consciousness has deeply fascinated me, leading me to explore how our subconscious influences our waking decisions and movements. Through my artwork, I seek to unravel the enigma of our subconscious control, drawing inspiration from scientific research, which reveals that a significant 80% of human behavior is governed by our subconscious, heavily influenced by experiences from our formative years, particularly ages 0 to 10. This revelation sheds light on why logical arguments may often be overshadowed by emotional reactions rooted in the gut. Another crucial thread in my exhibition revolves around the environment. I have been an environmental activist well before it became a trend, and I’ve actively co-produced environmental films and fought against practices like fracking. In SHADOWLAND, the subjects in my works interact with nature, and, in many instances, nature appears to reclaim them. This theme highlights the fragile bond between humanity and the natural world, provoking contemplation on our relationship with the environment.
Is it this exploration into the subconscious why the artworks are designed to be inverted? That they can be hung in either vertical orientation?
As I present my art to viewers, I give them the unique opportunity to evoke different visual and emotional responses by allowing them to choose how to hang each piece. They can opt for the color side up, revealing a figurative and realistic view of the artwork. Alternatively, they can explore the more conceptual, surreal, abstract, and volumetric perspective of the black-and-white ‘Shadow image’ when it faces upward. What’s intriguing is that showing the ‘Shadow image’ facing up, actually, represents a more realistic worldview, one that most people might be unaware of. It’s a perspective that delves into the subconscious, which I believe rules humanity and ‘runs the show.’ It’s a fascinating paradox: while the color side portrays the conscious perception of the world—what’s readily visible—the ‘Shadow image’ uncovers the hidden depths and complexities that shape our lives. By offering this choice of orientation, I invite viewers to question their own understanding of reality and delve into the intricacies of their subconscious minds. This art goes beyond mere aesthetics; it prompts introspection and contemplation, creating a multi-layered experience that challenges us to consider the complexities of human perception.
DECONSTR – ACTIVIST III, 2023Signature on the back. Archival Pigment Print on Hahnemühle Cotton Canvas,109.2 x 109.2 cm, 43 x 43 in, Edition of 3
Looking specifically at the three different subjects, can you first tell us more about Deconstr-Activist?
My Deconstr-Activist series draws inspiration from the ‘Deconstructivism’ architectural movement, challenging the rationality of modernism and embracing and revealing chaos and complexity. I delve into the intriguing world of shadows, volumes, negative versus positive space, and the interplay between light and darkness. This exploration stems from my background in architecture, which ignited my fascination with these artistic elements. Throughout the series, I endeavor to capture neglected structures that are gradually being reclaimed by nature. By doing so, I aim to shed light on the physical structures we create to accommodate our fragmented psyches. The juxtaposition of abandoned structures being overtaken by nature serves as a compelling visual metaphor for the inherent fragility and impermanence of human constructs.
HEAVY METAL – VOLKS WAGEN, 2023Signature on the back. Archival Pigment Print on Hahnemühle Cotton Canvas,109.2 x 109.2 cm, 43 x 43 in, Edition of 3
What about Heavy Metal?
In my “Heavy Metal” series, the transition from the pristine mountain range to the Hudson Valley exposed me to a striking contrast—defunct cars replacing the beauty of flowers in many backyards. This encounter sparked an obsession, leading me to spend years capturing these scenes with vintage analog Leica cameras, which I acquired from flea markets, embracing the slight imperfections in their lenses as a welcomed artistic element. In this body of work, I explore my fascination with American vintage cars left abandoned and outdated, captured within the passage of time and the encroachment of nature. Each photograph alludes to the poignant collision between the past and the future, symbolizing our own embodiment within these vehicles that are increasingly outdated, yet perpetually trapped in the present. In “Heavy Metal,” I seek to evoke a sense of nostalgia while urging reflection on the transient nature of our material possessions and the fleeting nature of human creations. The juxtaposition of these forgotten vehicles with the ever-encroaching embrace of nature serves as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of all things, urging us to ponder our place in the grand tapestry of time and the inescapable passage into the unknown future.
SANDMEN III, 2023Signature on the back. Archival Pigment Print on Hahnemühle Cotton Canvas,152.4 x 152.4 cm, 60 x 60 in, Edition of 3
And finally, what can you tell us about Sandmen?
Within each frame, beachgoers blissfully inhabit the horizon, seemingly unaware of their inverted doppelgängers lurking just below the surface. This juxtaposition of colors and reflections becomes a visual metaphor for the duality of human existence—the conscious experience of the moment above the surface and the hidden depths of the subconscious below. Drawing inspiration from Carl Jung’s concept of the Shadow persona and Quantum Physics, I explore how these profound elements influence human actions and behaviors. The dreamy beachscapes serve as a canvas for contemplating the interplay between our conscious and unconscious selves, the tangible and the intangible aspects of our existence. In this series, I invite viewers to immerse themselves in the enigmatic world of “Sandmen,” where time seems to stand still, and the boundaries between reality and imagination blur. The photographs become a gateway to introspection, inviting you to reflect on the transient nature of human experiences and the profound complexities that shape our perceptions and actions.
What is your favorite piece in the show and why?
As an artist, it’s challenging for me to pick a favorite, each image represents a moment of inspiration, creativity, and a reflection of my inner world. Each image carries a distinct essence, resonating with different viewers in various ways. Together with the sound piece ‘Shadowland’ that I have composed, performed, and recorded specifically for this show, the fusion and synergy between my visual art and sound adds a multi-dimensional layer to the overall experience. The fusion of visual and auditory expressions allows each piece to resonate on a deeper level, connecting with viewers in unique and profound ways.
SANDMEN II, 2023On the back. Archival Pigment Print on Hahnemühle Cotton Canvas,152.4 x 152.4 cm, 60 x 60 in, Edition of 3
What is next on the horizon?
A beach vacation in Italy, is on the immediate horizon!
The next time that you sit down to a table in a local restaurant for a nice meal with friends, rest in a waiting room, or even thumb through an Ikea catalogue (apologies to those that ‘yuck’ on that idea)—take note of the furniture that stands before your eyes…have you ever given it more thought than the function it is about to perform for you? It has been designed by someone, who, perhaps, has been hired to make sure it is (hopefully) structurally sound, aesthetically appealing (again, hopefully), and possibly economically purchased, therefore mass produced.
The Eames’ designed Christmas Card
Is it a work of art? Do you consider it the work of a master?
Often little attention is given to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of design, so in order to pay it a little respect, I would like to introduce you to a pair whose work you might be somewhat familiar, or dare I say “comfortable” with, Charles Eames and his wife Ray Kaiser Charles Eames (American, b.1907), studied architecture at the Washington University in Illinois, during a time of great innovation in the discipline.
Great advances in building technology at the turn of the 20th century, namely steel reinforced concrete, allowed architects the design freedom to build taller buildings on a steel skeleton permitting the use of more glass and therefore, more natural light and a better view of the outdoors. After graduation in the late 1920s, Eames was fortunate enough to tour Europe and see the revolutionary designs of such masters in his field as Le Corbusier, Mies Van der Rohe and Walter Gropius. Although this was a time of reconstruction after the Great War and utilitarianism was the mode, steel technology allowed this group of architects the freedom to use more organic forms in their designs and, as a result of the option to employ more glass in their structures, buildings that were based more around their external surroundings.
Eames’ own work really began to take off when he joined forces with his second wife, Ray Kaiser (American, b.1912). Ray was a student of famous painter Hans Hoffman and had keen interest in all the arts, including film and dance. The pair, finding it difficult to secure work during the depression, settled in Los Angeles, Eames finding work designing sets for MGM and Kaiser creating covers for architectural magazines.
Secretly, in the evenings, the couple conducted plywood experiments in their apartment turned studio.
Their aim, along with several collaborators, was to make functional furniture with an attractive design that could be produced cheaply and quickly on a massive scale. Their experiments and designs proved to be successful and the Eames began to get contracts for their moulded plywood furniture that combined an organic aesthetic with technical ingenuity. Branching out from wood, the couple also pioneered such technologies that are widely used today, such as fibreglass, plastic resin, and wire mess chairs. Most notable is the 1956 Lounge Chair, made from leather and plywood, a design that is still quite popular in rec rooms today.
For the sake of the Eames lasting legacy in the history of modern architecture, it is necessary to mention the Eames House was constructed in 1949. The design for this landmark structure was proposed by the husband and wife team for the famous Case Study house program for Arts and Architecture magazine. The goal of this program was to have an architect design a modern house, elaborating on its functional requirements and then actually build the home. The house proposed by the Eames reflected their needs as a young married couple looking for a place to live, work and entertain.
They choose a site along the Pacific coast, and using mostly pre-fabricated steel and glass walls, constructed a home heavily influenced by cubist painter Mondrian’s “Composition in Red, Yellow and Blue”.
As a result, of the replacement of concrete walls for glass, the inhabitant of the home is afforded a spectacular view of the coastal property and exterior greenery, meanwhile, taking advantage of the natural light that is allowed to stream throughout the house. Of all of the proposals that were submitted for the Case Study houses, the Eames House is considered to be the most successful, as it not only made a definite architectural statement, but also functioned quite well as a comfortable and practical living space. The property is still maintained by the Eames family, who continue to use it as an occasional residence, and it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006.
So… consider this: although you might not find the Eames furniture in your hospital waiting room, rec room,or local restaurant, many mass produced models still bear their innovative legacy, either in their design, comfort or materials. For the Silo, Eve Yantha.
BenQ Debuts New LH820ST Laser Projector Built For Small to Medium Golf Simulation Rooms
Designed to Bring BenQ’s Critically Acclaimed Premium Golf Sim Quality to Small Sim Spaces for 2,500$ cad, the LH820ST Shines in Color Accuracy, Brightness, and Ease of Installation
COSTA MESA, Calif. — Aug, 2023 — BenQ, an internationally renowned provider of visual display solutions, continues its commitment to delivering the most realistic, user-friendly golfing experience for the growing at-home and commercial golf simulation market with the new LH820ST laser projector. Available for $1,899 usd/ $2,525 cad MSRP, the full-HD, 3,600-lumen LH820ST short-throw laser projector features 90% Rec. 709 color coverage for realistic golf course images, 0.5 throw ratio, convenient HDMI connectivity, 20,000 hours of maintenance-free use, and robust features for easy, flexible installation. It’s ideal for golf sim in garages, basements, and other shared spaces.
“Golf sim has become mainstream, creating demand for laser projectors that are not only affordable but also work for small sim spaces and have great picture quality,” said Bob Wudeck, senior director of business development at BenQ Education.
“BenQ has been at the forefront of the golf simulation market since we introduced our 4K UHD LK953ST and WUXGA LU935ST short-throw laser projectors two years ago. The LH820ST checks every box for golfers wanting to put in a golf sim but are tight on space or wanting to update their existing projector for the best quality. It’s the first golf sim laser projector under $2,000 usd offering incredible value.”
“This is like looking through a window. The details are absolutely perfect. It absolutely nails the colors on True North. In comparison between my 4K monitor and this projector, they’re identical.” — Eaglesnbirdies’ YouTube Review of the BenQ LH820ST
The LH820ST uses native 1080p full-HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, providing sharp and detailed images without downscaling or compression, which is perfect for golf simulation, full-HD movies, and gaming. BenQ golf simulator projectors perfectly reproduce the lush greens and vivid blues of golf courses. The company teamed up with color experts to develop an exclusive Golf Mode that optimizes color accuracy. This allows golfers to immerse themselves in pleasantly natural reproductions of the most popular golf courses around the world. With 3,600 lumens, the LH820ST provides bright projection, allowing users to clearly see the image on the golf simulator screen even in bright environments.
“This is the best-looking projector I’ve ever had in [my golf sim room] — without a doubt. I can’t get over how clear and crisp these courses are. I may have to switch out my old projector. There’s no way anybody can get this projector and complain about it.” — Roxor Golf’s YouTube Review of the BenQ LH820ST
The BenQ LH820ST is also the perfect projector for golf sim rooms that need to double as media rooms. The projector’s powerful laser projection utilizes a dual color wheel system that covers an unparalleled 90% of Rec. 709, the industrywide standard for color reproduction in HD video and movies. Users enjoy golf, movies, and games in perfect color, knowing that what’s on-screen is exactly what the director intended. In addition, the increased color ratios and pure laser-generated RGBY hues dramatically enhance color saturation and guarantee superior projected image quality compared to lamp projectors.
“My garage is below the recommended dimensions for a home golf simulator room. … I can’t tell you how happy I am with this projected image. I didn’t even think it was possible to get an image this good. … I don’t even need my TV screen monitor now. I can just look at the projector screen and play proper sim golf now.” — Handicap Golf’s YouTube Review of the BenQ LH820ST
Cool set up in a tiny garage! Fore!
For most golf simulation setups, a short-throw projector is key because it allows for projector placement where it is needed to fill the screen while being mounted safely outside the hitting area and without casting a shadow. This is even more important for small- to medium-sized golf sim rooms. With a 0.5 throw ratio, the LH820ST can project a 177″ image (7.7′ by 13′ screen size or 86″ by 154″ actual viewable size) when placed within just 7 feet from the screen, as an example. It delivers a large picture without the expense of optional lenses. Also, the LH820ST is great for golf simulators that may require a floor-mounted projector due to space restrictions. The LH820ST also features an HDMI input for directly connecting the devices running golf sim software to the projector and ensuring no lag or signal degradation.
“The fact that this is a laser projector for $1,900 usd is great. You get a sharp, bright image with BenQ’s gorgeous color and dynamic range, and the short throw distance is perfect for mounting the projector up close to the screen to help avoid unwanted shadows on your image. This is a projector designed with golf simulation experiences in mind.” — Carl’s Place YouTube Review of the BenQ LH820ST
BenQ provides setup tools to make installation fast, simple, and perfectly aligned. With digital shrink and shift tools, users can adjust the projected image by reducing and moving it by 0.5%. To counteract the trapezoid effect that can occur when a projector is installed or placed off-center, the LH820ST offers a 2D keystone correction range of up to plus or minus 30 degrees on both the horizontal and vertical axes. Corner fit control adjusts each corner for perfectly aligned image geometry. The projector also features screen fill, which allows the projector to easily switch from native resolution to best match the desired aspect ratio with maximized pixel counts while avoiding image distortion, all with just a few clicks in the on-screen menu. Users don’t need to go into graphics card or Windows display settings, which saves time and hassle.
Finally, like all BenQ projectors in its laser family, the LH820ST eliminates the hassle and cost of installing replacement lamps while providing long-lasting 20,000-hour light source life and beautiful colors. Every BenQ laser projector has an IP5X-rated, dustproof, sealed laser engine that eliminates the need for filters, perfect for dust-prone environments such as a garage or basement. The result is a long-lasting projector that keeps users from worrying about filters or lamps — only hooks and slices.
For the Silo, Veronica Esbona.
Highlights
Full HD (1920×1080) resolution
The LH820ST uses native 1080p full HD (1920×1080) resolution, providing sharp and detailed images without downscaling or compression, which is perfect for golf simulation, full HD movies, and gaming.
Exclusive Golf Mode for vivid greens and blues
BenQ golf simulator projectors perfectly reproduce the lush greens and vivid blues of golf courses. BenQ teamed up with color experts to develop an exclusive Golf Mode that optimizes the blue sky and the green grass color. This allows golfers to immerse themselves in pleasantly natural reproductions of blue sky and green grass.
A bright image with 3600 lumens
With 3600 lumens, the LH820ST provides bright projection, allowing users to clearly see the image on the golf simulator screen even with room lights turned on.
Cinema-level color gamut with 90% REC709 coverage
The LH820ST’s powerful laser projection utilizes a dual color wheel system that covers an unparalleled 90% of Rec.709, the industry-wide standard for color reproduction in HD video and movies. Enjoy golf, movies, and games in perfect color, knowing that what you’re seeing on screen is exactly what the director intended. In addition, the increased color ratios and pure laser-generated RGBY hues dramatically enhance color saturation and guarantee superior projected image quality compared to lamp projectors.
Placement outside hit zone plus no shadows with 0.5 throw ratio
For most golf simulation setups, a short throw projector helps you put the projector where it is needed to fill the screen while being mounted safely outside the hitting area and without casting a shadow. With 0.5 throw ratios, the LH820ST can project a 177” image (7.7x13ft (screen size); 86x154in (actual viewable size)) image when placed within just 7 feet from the screen, as an example, delivering a large picture without the expense of optional lenses. Also, the LH820ST is great for golf simulators that may require a floor mounted projector due to space restrictions.
Digital Shrink and Shift for Accurate Image Adjustment
After the projector is installed, the LH820ST allows you to adjust the projected image by reducing and moving it by 0.5% to where you want it.
Ideal projection alignment with 2D keystone and corner fit
To counteract the trapezoid effect that can occur when a projector is installed or placed off-center, the LH820ST offers a 2D keystone correction range of up to ±30° on both the horizontal and vertical axes. Corner Fit control adjusts each corner for perfectly aligned image geometry.
Easy switch of aspect ratios with the screen fill function
The LH820ST features Screen Fill, which allows the projector to easily switch from native resolution to best match your desired aspect ratio with maximized pixel counts while avoiding image distortion, all with just a few clicks in the on-screen menu. You don’t need to go into graphics card or Windows display settings, which saves time and hassle.
The LH820ST supports a perfect digital signal via HDMI input directly from the devices running your golf sim software to the projector with no signal degradation.
Maintenance free performance with laser technology
BenQ laser projectors eliminate the hassle and cost of installing replacement lamps while providing long lasting 20,000-hour light source life and beautiful colors. You can also start projecting right away without waiting for a lamp to warm up. Every BenQ laser projector has an IP5X-rated, dustproof sealed laser engine that eliminates the need for filters, perfect for environments such as a garage or basement. This also saves you money in the long run.
UFO Hearing – Shocking claims of alien technology defying the laws of physics are shared by whistleblowers
Captivated by extraterrestrial phenomena, our friends and experts at BonusFinder Canada took a crucial step in safeguarding humanity by conducting a study revealing which Canadian provinces are most likely to survive an alien invasion.
Residents of Harbour Mille, N.L., reported seeing three missile-like UFOs fly near their community on the night of Jan. 25, 2010, including this one photographed. ((photo-Darlene Stewart))
The Provinces Most Likely to Survive an Alien Invasion
Rank
Province
Alien Survivability Score /10
1
Nova Scotia
8.03
2
Manitoba
7.50
3
Newfoundland and Labrador
7.47
4
New Brunswick
7.06
5 tie
Alberta
7.02
5 tie
Quebec
7.02
7
Prince Edward Island
6.92
8
Saskatchewan
6.90
9
Ontario
6.65
10
British Columbia
5.96
The experts created a points-based index system evaluating:
Population and population density (per km²)
The average duration of UFO visits (minutes) and sightings per 100,000 people
Total forest area (thousands of hectares) and forest area as a % of land area
Fresh water area as a % total area
Police officers and active military service per 100,000
Number of food businesses
Number of farms, farms per 100 km² and employees in agriculture (in 1,000 people) per 100,000
BonusFinder Canadacan reveal that Nova Scotia‘s resilient spirit and strategic coastal location make it a province most likely to survive and endure an alien invasion, with a survivability score of 8.03/10. Having witnessed 22.38 UFOs per 100,000 people in the province, which is actually, the second-highest out of all the provinces, with New Brunswick having the highest (25.92 UFOs/100,000 people). Nova Scotia also has the highest number of active military service with 1011.98 per 100,000 people as well as the most scientific and professional personnel,with a total of 64.89 per 100,000 people.
The province also benefits from the 79% of forest-to-land area ratio, meaning they can be used to take cover to resist alien invaders. Nova Scotia is also very famous for the ‘Shag Harbour Incident’, which is a sighting of a UFO crashing into the waters of Shag Harbour leaving no trace other than yellow foam.
Manitoba takes second place, with an overall survivability score of 7.50/10. Manitoba has seen over 17 UFOs per 100,000 people, which on average last 17.69 minutes. The province benefits from 18,968 hectares of forest, and the highest percentage of fresh water-to-land ratio (15%), the same as Ontario. With 14,543 farms and 1,460.34 agriculturists per 100,000 people, the population’s satiety is in good hands.
Falcon Lake, located in Winnipeg, is one of Manitoba’s most notorious experiences with the unknown, as Stefan Michalak saw two vessels hovering above him in the night sky.
In third place is Newfoundland and Labrador, scoring 7.47/10. It has the second-highest number of scientific and professional personnel with 53.86 per 100,000 people and has the lowest number of UFO sightings with 0.59 per 100,000 people, for an average of 12 minutes. Despite having the lowest % of forest-to-land ratio (29%) and the least manufacturers (1.98 per 100,000 people), the province has the highest number of healthcare professionals per 100,000 people (8.72).
British Columbia, however, ranks the lowest in the research, with an alien survivability score of 5.96/10. Despite its breathtaking landscapes, with a high 63% of forest-to-land ratio, British Columbia’s vast and remote terrain may pose challenges, making it potentially less likely to survive an alien invasion due to its difficulties in coordination and defense – the second–lowest active military service (191.87 per 100,000 people). British Columbia also lacks agriculturists in the province, with 471.92 per 100,000 people.
After a long day of work or school, it’s important to take care of yourself before bed.
Taking care of yourself at night ensures that you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead. Here are some tips on how to take care of yourself at night:
Take Care of Your Skin
Taking care of your skin is an essential part of self-care. Before bed, make sure you remove your makeup and cleanse your face thoroughly. Apply a moisturizer that suits your skin type to keep it hydrated and prevent wrinkles and other skin problems. Don’t forget to use an exfoliating soap for the perfect beauty routine!
Unplug and Disconnect
We are constantly connected to our smartphones, laptops, and other devices. Before you go to bed, switch off all electronic devices or keep them away from your bedroom to ensure a peaceful and restful sleep. The blue light from electronic devices can disrupt our circadian rhythms and affect the quality of our sleep.
Create a Relaxing Environment
Your bedroom should be a peaceful and relaxing environment that promotes restful sleep. Make sure your room is dark, cool, and quiet. Use comfortable bedding and pillows that support your neck and spine. You can also use aromatherapy candles or diffusers to create a calming ambiance that helps you relax.
Practice Good Sleep Hygiene
Good sleep hygiene is essential for a good night’s sleep. Make sure you stick to a regular sleep schedule and go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals before bedtime as they can interfere with your sleep quality. Also, try to establish a bedtime routine that helps you unwind and relax, such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, or meditating.
Do Relaxing Activities
Engage in relaxing activities before bed to calm your mind and promote a restful sleep. You can try reading a book, listening to calming music, practicing yoga or meditation, or taking a warm bath. These activities help reduce stress and anxiety, which can interfere with your sleep quality.
In conclusion, taking care of yourself at night is crucial for your overall health and well-being. By following these tips, you can create a peaceful and relaxing environment that promotes restful sleep and helps you wake up feeling refreshed and energized. For the Silo, Bill Gordon.
I’m a tomato snob. I can’t help it. I’ve had the best and will never go back.
The first summery taste of a home-grown tomato, fully matured on the vine and still warm from the sun is one of the great taste pleasures of summertime. You need to experience it to appreciate it.
The poor imported supermarket version of the tomato just doesn’t compare. And in reality, it can’t. The imports are picked when they just start to show some colour, before their texture and especially their flavors have had a chance to develop. Then they travel, sometimes halfway around the world.
Consequently on the store shelves we see these hard, bland-tasting, thick-skinned things that misrepresent what a tomato could be.
In fact, modern tomato varieties are developed specifically for this kind of handling, packaging and transport. Thick skins, uniformity of size and shape are all desirable attributes to producers. Unfortunately, flavor isn’t. But we want tomatoes, so we take what we can get. However, with a little effort, we can get better. Why not grow your own? It’s easy. And why not grow specifically old-fashioned varieties? They taste a million times better than the imports and you aren’t paying for the oil to get them here.
Why I’m hooked on heirloom tomatoes.
The variety of colours, shapes, sizes, and even flavours, is almost endless. And it is a lot like collecting antiques. In my own garden experience I’ve grown everything from the marble-sized ivory-coloured White Currant to the enormous red Sicilian Saucers. The fabulous tasting Black Krim (originating from the Isle of Krim in Russia) is my absolute favourite of all tomatoes, with it’s lovely burgundy skin and marbled magenta and green interior. The appearance, flavour and variety in the heirlooms simply cannot be approached by the mass-produced types.
Though tomatoes originate in ancient Mexico, the heirlooms in my own collection were developed, some as far back as centuries ago, in France, Italy, Germany, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, USA, Russia, and the list goes on. Some of their names are descriptive: Black Cherry, Green Grape, Big Rainbow, Indian Stripe, the absolutely beautiful Persimmon, and the absolutely weird Purple Calabash. And some of them bear the names of their sources: Andrew Rahart’s Jumbo Red, Aunt Gertie’s Gold, Marianna’s Peace, Martha Homestead, and my favourite named – Olga’s Round Yellow Chicken Tomato – all varieties discovered and saved by home gardeners, often passed down through families for generations, and shared with friends.
And so, through the efforts of seed-savers throughout the world, the tomatoes are spared extinction and continue to be enjoyed for their wonderful flavor, but not by the masses. Only by snobs like me. And maybe you.
Mainstream Social is DEAD! State censorship, sponsored spam, cancel culture and inciter-banning means everyone who’s anyone is on the dark web. And no one knows it better than Tucker Scott.
Rampant cyberbullying. Fake news trolling. Spying, voyeurism and privacy invasion. This is Contraband, the ruthless entrepreneurs’ digital underground – where profit-hungry mobs prowl city streets filming violent events to satisfy society’s demand for sensational content.
Contraband is a unique cross-Atlantic graphic novel collaboration published by Markosia. Here are a few good reasons why you should definitely pick up this superbly relevant graphic novel.
1. Contraband focuses on one of the more timely, relevant topics in this year of our Lord, 2021, zeroing in on the early violent, criminal abuse of underground community sharing – and by doing so, adds a whole new meaning to disruptive video mobile and social media technology convergence.
But when activists hack Contraband giving control to any influencer with the most followers, it’s complete chaos as everybody chases the money and fame of being number one!
2. Some interesting comics and mainstream news media folks like what we’re doing: “Behe’s dialogue brings a hip, hyper-real energy to his plot while Elliot’s deceptively plain artwork evokes a shabby world of compromised morals.” The Financial Times
“As visionary as the technology Behe writes about. “ Broken Frontier
“Behe’s critique of the public’s willingness to watch all manner of depravity is a righteous, if not an original, one.” Entertainment Weekly
“Beneath Contraband’s ultra stylish cover lies a tale of high action and drama in a very near future where technology and communications have become inescapable.” Forbidden Planet
3. They’re an odd but solid partnership for making tech fiction graphic novels: There’s TJ Behe -a Canadian CEO of a self-sovereign ID privacy firm, an experienced social / telecoms consultant and an Ivey MBA graduate – along with Phil Elliott- a British illustration pro who’s been busy creating amazing comics for over 25 years with the likes of Alan Moore, Neil Gaiman and Eddie Campbell.
Earning it the nickname ‘Canada’s Silicon Valley’, Kitchener, Ontario, is a technology powerhouse with numerous tech companies, start-ups, and research institutions. It achieved first place for broadband speed at 287 Mbps.
Toronto follows closely behind, with 283 Mbps. As the country’s largest city and financial hub, boasting a thriving economy and a diverse range of industries, the demand for the Internet is high, and providers have clearly delivered.
Neighbouring Brampton scored similarly, with 277 Mbps. Home to a growing business sector, particularly in industries such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and information technology, the city has the third-highest connectivity speed in Canada.
The only city in the top five that isn’t in Ontario is Surrey, landing in fourth place. Renowned for its beautiful natural surroundings, including parks, green spaces, and the stunning Fraser River, Surrey achieved an internet download speed of 271 Mbps. London, Ontario, follows closely behind with a broadband speed of 270 Mbps.
It makes sense to see Ontario cities landing in the top 5 as recently the governments of Canada and Ontario invested over $54 million to make the Internet accessible to more than 20,000 homes. This not only will bring a necessary Internet connection to rural Ontario but bring reliable high-speed Internet access to the whole of the country.
Methodology:
BonusFinder Canada wanted to reveal the best Canadian cities for gamers to live in.
In order to achieve that, they created a seed list of the 20 most populated cities in Canada using Data Commons.
Fixed download speeds were obtained from the Ookla dataset with gridded worldwide internet speed data. The data was spatially joined with the coordinates of the cities in Canada using the Geopandas package in Python, which allowed for an average download speed (in megabits per second (Mbps)) per city to be obtained. The coordinates for Canada were obtained from the GADM geospatial data set, (except for Quebec and Montreal which were obtained from the overpass api).
Data was also collected on the number of gaming conventions in each city in 2023 using Video Games Con for gaming conventions and Board Game Geek for board games conventions.
TripAdvisor was then used to count the number of ‘game and entertainment centres.
The number of gaming jobs in each city was found using Indeed, using the search term ‘video game’ as well as each city included in the seed list.
All data was then combined into a definitive ranking which was equally weighted. BonusFinder Canada was then able to assign a final score out of 10 to each city and determine which is best and worst for gamers.
Data is correct as of July 6th, 2023.
For the Silo, Marissa Pysarczuk.
Here is a link to our friends at https://bonus.ca/ who commissioned this data.
APOP also reports that overweight and obese dogs are at an increased risk for having chronic inflammation, a reduced life expectancy, skin disorders, orthopedic disease, cancer, kidney dysfunction, respiratory disorders, and metabolic and endocrine disorders. Focusing on improving pet health can help avoid problems and can keep them feeling well.
Doggy diet do-over. Most commercial dog food is highly processed and can be made with byproducts from the 4 D’s (dead, dying, diseased or drugged) animals, this includes the popular raw diets. Traditional pet food can also contain toxins and cancer-causing agents. Seriously consider changing your dog’s diet to a lightly cooked, fresh, whole-food recipe.
Reduced audio escape for utmost privacy. 
