Culture

Affirmation Cards From Canada Moms Intended To Affect Millions

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Everyone knows the old saying “to know where you’re going, you have to know where you’ve been” right? This couldn’t be more accurate, and for you to truly relate to Love Powered Co. and where it came from, we feel that you might need to know a little bit about affirmation and about us first.

Our names are Anna Lozano and Lindy Sood and we would like to welcome you to the Love Powered movement.  We are friends and soul sisters who realized that together, we have a powerful message to share with the world. Months ago, we started talking about what is lacking in the marketplace when it comes to personal growth products for families. How our children were most certainly gaining positive subconscious programming from stating their daily affirmations, but what about being consciously aware of the words they were speaking?

We wanted them to understand this beautiful new vocabulary. We wanted them to connect with these positive words and statements. We wanted them to link the affirmations to their own daily experiences, to their own unique feelings and emotions, and to how they interacted with others.

Our mission is to create a self-worth movement, powering the next generation of mindful leaders. A better tomorrow starts with our children, and that means we need to do the work now, healing ourselves in the process.

This is so much bigger than a product, it’s a global movement creating a better tomorrow. Welcome home, to our Love Powered family.

How Are We Different?

1. 22 POWERS

Parents & children think of examples and ‘times when’. Going even deeper, we ask ‘How did this make you feel’? By connecting their own experiences to each POWER, and remembering how they felt, it better helps our children to understand the words and statements they are saying, and connect deeper to the meaning behind them.

These are the qualities of emotionally intelligent trailblazers! The POWERS we all have within us, at times, we just need to be reminded of it.

2. CONNECTION

Instead of 1 affirmation per card, we have grouped together 3 related terms + a statement – helping our little ones to grasp the meaning of the words and how they all relate to each other. We are teaching our children a new, beautiful, positive vocabulary.

3. CONSCIOUS AWARENESS

Instead of 1 affirmation per card, we have grouped together 3 related terms + a statement – helping our little ones to grasp the meaning of the words and how they all relate to each other. BONUS! We are teaching our children a new, beautiful, positive vocabulary!

4. EXAMPLES & FEELINGS

We focus on the power of CONNECTION between parent & child. Leave the screen at the door, this is a time to be present, engaged and wholeheartedly connected.

5. AESTHETIC

These cards are so darn adorable and just oh-so-delicious, we are certain that you and your little ones will find it hard to wait to get your hands on them.

For more information, contact us here.

 

 

 

Culture

Prime Minister Trudeau On Barcelona Terrorist Attack

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The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement on the terrorist attack in Barcelona:

“I am deeply saddened by today’s terrorist attack in Barcelona that has killed and injured so many innocent people.

“Sophie and I join all Canadians in offering our sincere condolences to the families and friends who have lost loved ones, and our best wishes for a fast and full recovery to those injured [yesterday].

“While we cannot ignore the outrage we feel, together we must renew our commitment to protect the freedom found in societies that promote unity, openness and inclusion.

“Spain, we grieve with you and denounce hate and violence in all of its forms. Canada will continue working with the international community to fight terrorism and build a world where we can all feel safe and secure.”

Culture

IDA Challenges Airlines To Cut Environmental Baggage And Save Animals

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Air India announced that it has made one simple change that will save the airline $1.5 USD million (Rs 10 crore) and spare hundreds of thousands of animals from short, brutal lives and untimely deaths – it stopped serving non-vegetarian meals.

Air travel is one of the most notorious carbon polluters, which harms wild animals by changing natural habitats and acidifying oceans. Offering a plant-based meal not only saves animals directly by not serving them, but saves more animals by reducing greenhouse gasses and carbon emissions from farming that harm wild animals and the planet. There is a large body of evidence linking meat-based diets with unsustainable levels of greenhouse gas emissions and carbon dioxide production. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that meat-based diets use more energy, land, and water than a plant-based diets.

As an environmentally conscious company with a strong track record of promoting environmental sustainability, Virgin Airlines is ideally placed to lead the industry in a transition to plant-based meals. The time has never been better to call on Virgin to go meat-free!

Please join us in asking Virgin Atlantic, Virgin America (Alaska Airlines) and Virgin Australia to take the next step in reducing their carbon footprints. Make plant-based meals the default option on all flights!

1. If you live in the U.S., please call 877 359 8474 (customer service representatives are available 24/7).

After the prompt, press “0” and respond to the auto-prompt by stating “something else” to be connected through to a customer service representative.

Once connected, you can say something like, “Hi, I’m calling to express my support for Virgin Airlines to make plant-based meals the default selection on all flights. This simple switch will cuts costs, dramatically reduce greenhouse gas and carbons emissions, easily address an array of dietary requirements, and reduce waste. Will you please pass my message on to management?”

2. After your call, please send our letter:

Dear Executive Team,

Increasing numbers of consumers are choosing plant-based diets to support the environment and decrease their carbon footprint. Yet, meat-based meals continue to be the default meal option for your airlines. It doesn’t have to be this way.

Just recently, Air India stopped serving non-vegetarian meals, showing this progressive move is one that can be implemented without hardship.

There is a large body of evidence linking meat-based diets with unsustainable levels of greenhouse gas emissions and carbon dioxide production. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that a meat-based diet uses more energy, land, and water than a plant-based diet and was less viable for the future. By simply switching from a meat-based meal to a plant-based meal as the default option, Virgin Airlines could go a long way toward decreasing the environmental impact of airline travel.

There are thousands of tasty and nutritious plant-based recipes available that exclude meat, dairy, and egg. These meals could easily address an array of dietary requirements and reduce the number of special meal options that Virgin Airlines currently offers. In addition, plant-based meals cost less and are healthier. In a 2012 study in the Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition, investigators found that meat-based diets cost individual consumers $746USD more per year, and were less nutritious. There is no need to compromise your award-winning service – we are asking you to simply switch the default meal option so that passengers can still select a meat-based meal if they wish.

Offering a plant-based meal as the default option will save you money, increase profit margins, cut tons off your carbon footprint and cement Virgin’s reputation as the premier modern airline.

Not only will this simple switch cuts costs, it also reduces greenhouse gasses and carbon emissions. As an environmentally conscious organization with a strong track record of promoting environmental sustainability, Virgin Airlines is ideally placed to lead the industry in a transition to plant-based meals.

We applaud Virgin Airlines’ commitment to ecological air travel solutions, including the use of biofuel and carbon offsets. We ask that Virgin Airlines again show leadership in the field of environmental sustainability by making plant-based meals the default selection on all flights.

 

Culture

Natural World Immediacy A Rare Concept

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Immediacy? “Nothing important comes into being overnight; even grapes or figs need time to ripen. If you say that you want a fig now, I will tell you to be patient. First, you must allow the tree to flower, then put forth fruit; then you have to wait until the fruit is ripe. So if the fruit of a fig tree is not brought to maturity instantly or in an hour, how do you expect the human mind to come to fruition, so quickly and easily?” -Epictetus

The Worm (2008) and Watershort (2008) are time-contemplative short films by Canadian sound and visual artist Jarrod Barker.

In the natural world, immediacy is rarely a concept. While it is true the Mayfly lives only for a day, it is also true that each fly is one infinitesimal link in the long succession of the species. As humans have increasingly stepped beyond the boundaries of nature, we have begun to forget the importance of waiting and patience. We live surrounded by cheap treasures gotten easily and quickly. But like the Mayfly, these spoils of instant gratification perish quickly leaving us desiring more. No longer do we answer to the rhythm of nature, preferring instead to force the world to step up to our breakneck pace. All the while we are saturated with reminders that “good things come to those who wait” but too often choose to ignore this time tested wisdom.

Stefan Klein works in Berlin. Presently he is examining the concept of waiting. To this end, he has conducted quite a lot of field research. Waiting, he says, “is something that’s so routinely existing in our daily lives but at the same time has this very existential dimension to it so that almost everybody can relate to it but at the same time it’s a very abstract topic.” Another project, titled Introduction to Microeconomics is a book documenting Klein’s repeated ordering and return of a book by the same name. In this way, he examined documentation as a vital element of a whole work. Much of Klein’s work investigates complex systems through performative means. In September, Klein will begin a series of waiting sessions with people from various disciplines. He will meet with guests at a bus stop (a place of waiting) for a conversation. His audience will be comprised of both those who came to see the performance and those who happened to be waiting for the bus. In this way, Klein will access waiting from many perspectives.

untitled watercolor Emilie Clark 2015

Emilie Clark is a New York City based artist who spends part of the year in New Hampshire. Much of her work is based on the work of nineteenth-century natural historians and scientists, most of them women. She also explores the literal interpretation of the word ecology (earth’s household) incorporating historical texts and working in the landscape. In New Hampshire, Clark works in a floating research station surrounded by the natural world. In New York City her experience is quite different though she has noticed similarities in plant species between the two locations. From her research station, Clark collects specimens, makes sound recordings, draws, paints, preserves, and fully immerses herself in nature. This process is rooted not only in creating but in learning.

Brainard Carey

A Few Words to Keep in your Pocket

A work of art, a career, a relationship, anything worth investing our hearts and minds in, must be given time. We must relearn to wait, to fall back in step with the world around us. For the Silo, Brainard Carey.

Brainard  is currently giving free webinars on how to write a better Artist bio and statement and how to get a show in a gallery – you can register for that live webinar and ask questions live by clicking here.

Reviews

Luxurious Aquila Reaches Power Catamaran Milestone

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CLEARWATER, Fla.  – Aquila is pleased to announce that they have built their 100th catamaran boat, an Aquila 44.

Frank Xiong SinoEagle CEO

The Aquila 44 boasts Aquila’s signature fresh evolution of classic boating traditions where efficiency in design and performance compliment her luxurious living and was named “Best New Multihull 40′-49′” in the 2014 AIM Media Editor’s Choice Awards.

“This is an exciting and momentous occasion for us. From the very beginning, we have felt the Aquila Power Catamarans were the best in the world, and we have been excited to be a part of the team designing and building them. We look forward to surpassing this milestone and continuing to celebrate many more,” stated Frank Xiong, Sino Eagle Group CEO.

Construction of Aquila Power Catamarans began in 2012 when Sino Eagle Group began building the Aquila 38 specifically for MarineMax, the world’s largest power boat dealer, for its new charter business in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).

In 2012, experts from multiple development, design, and manufacturing firms, namely, Sino Eagle Group, J&J Design Group, Seaway, and MarineMax, all collaborated to expand the Aquila range by developing a new, purebred power catamaran.

This international team consisted of MarineMax’s Lex Raas, a highly-experienced boat developer and charter industry veteran, and J&J Design group and their development arm, Seaway, who have worked on designs for Azimut, Bavaria, Beneteau, Dufour, Jeanneau and Monte Carlo. This highly regarded, award-winning group began the process of designing the first true Aquila Power Catamaran, the Aquila 48.

“Bringing this group of companies together made for a very knowledgeable and powerful team. We’ve been able to combine our experience and expertise to design and build boats that are innovative and truly setting new standards for the industry,” stated Lex Raas of MarineMax.

To position itself to become a prominent boat builder, Sino Eagle Group, recognized globally in high-tech composite manufacturing, built a new factory which provided the Aquila brand with full in-house manufacturing capabilities paired with in-depth knowledge and experience in advanced yacht building practices.

With the combined knowledge and advanced experience of the most talented group in the yachting industry, Aquila is establishing a new standard of power catamaran innovation and becoming the game changer in the marketplace.


Aquila represents the newest and most exciting evolution on the market today, offering practicality and comfort with trend setting innovation, quality, and design. Both inside and out, Aquila Catamarans are designed to provide the perfect cruising vessel whether crossing oceans or traveling the Great Loop, living aboard, or exploring worldwide destinations, or simply entertaining friends and family at the dock. The expanding Aquila range currently consists of the Aquila 36,  Aquila 44, Aquila 48, and will soon be including the Aquila 60 (2019 debut).  MarineMax is the exclusive dealer for the Aquila brand boats throughout the world other than mainland China.

Bill McGill, MarineMax CEO

“Congratulations to the Sino Eagle Group, J&J Design, and MarineMax teams for their hard work on designing and building industry leading catamarans. Passionate teams pulling together has created winning products for our customers,” exclaimed Bill McGill, MarineMax CEO.

Aquila is excited to have reached this milestone in their continued growth to new markets with new model offerings.

ABOUT AQUILA

Recognized globally for its high-quality, advanced composite manufacturing capabilities, Sino Eagle Yachts builds Aquila Power Catamarans in a state-of-the-art facility to exacting standards. With one of the most talented teams in the industry providing the combined knowledge and extensive experience, Aquila has established a game changing new standard of power catamaran innovation. Leading the way in the market segment, Aquila continues to pave the way with strong international sales of the award-winning Aquila brand. Uncompromising design coupled with unmatched industry experience, engineering, and manufacturing by world class builders, make up the Aquila line of true pure-bred power catamarans. For more information visit aquilaboats.com.  For the Silo, Sara Yasi & MarineMax.

 

Culture

The Long Road To Self Publishing

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Bookends worth having- courtesy of hiconsumption.com
Bookends worth having- courtesy of hiconsumption.com

It is amazing to me how many of us aspire to write and publish a book. If you don’t believe me, try this experiment. Mention to five people “I’m thinking of writing a book…” and then wait for the response. Among the (hopefully) positive comments you get back, I bet that three or four people will say “I’ve always wanted to write a book myself.” Even in today’s age of digital distribution it seems like writing a book – a real, in-the-hands book, is a dream of many.

I know for myself I’ve had that dream, too. I am quite sure I can trace it back to several years ago when I actually did author a book. It’s around 30 pages long, and I bound it with denim fabric wrapped around cardboard. It has illustrations and is written in a “choose your own adventure” style with choices that present themselves at the bottom of each page. It was typed with an old manual typewriter and the copyright page clearly indicates that copying or electronic transmission, of any form, is prohibited without the express written consent of the author. I think I was 10 years old at the time.

In my twenties I dreamed about writing a book on the history of the Amiga computer. I contacted several involved individuals for interviews, some of which I actually conducted and others which I just got a general “yeah, sure I’ll do that” response. The project sat on the back burner, only to be moved around to the side when my next project – a book about the history of two of my family members – reared its head. Research started, more family got involved. Yet, it has sat there. I’m still convinced I’m going to write that project (heck, it could even become a movie) but it sits there on the back burner with the other book. I envision the scenario is similar with all of those other people who say “yep, I’m going to write a book too”. Back burners around the world must be filled with these book projects. It’s a good thing that we are moving more towards a digital age because if all of these books actually got written it would likely overflow our libraries.

In my thirties I was approached by someone who had already written a successful book and had been interviewed by some very major radio and television stations. His previous publisher had ripped him off, illegal translations of the book were out there with no profits coming to him, and now that publisher was in the throes of bankruptcy. He had made some improvements, gotten new illustrations and was ready to release the latest version of the book. He just needed a new publisher. He was even going to provide camera-ready files, a term that doesn’t even apply anymore in the industry. He just needed someone to produce a cover and bankroll the whole operation. It wasn’t my own book, but it was a step into the world of publishing that I had dreamed of being a part of since I hammered out the keys on that old Underwood.

 

Food for thought: even JK Rowling and her first Harry Potter book were rejected....more than once.
Food for thought: even JK Rowling and her first Harry Potter book were rejected….more than once.

 

To say it didn’t work out as planned would be an understatement. The book did make it into Chapters, but the monies that were paid to the distributor seemed to evaporate as they also filed for bankruptcy. I did manage to get some of the books back. They currently serve as great insulation in my garage, and I’ve considered burning them for heat this winter. The problem lies with how the old model works. The publisher orders and pays for a large number of books, and then hopes the distributor gets them placed at retailers. The retailers may or may not sell them, and to pay for the ones they have sold, they actually return unsold ones – delaying paying anything until the interest in the book has passed. It’s a nasty, dirty business and one that I have no interest in dealing in again.

Yet the call of writing a book – of crafting something from scratch that comes from deep inside the brain – will not go away. It’s no surprise that many of us would love to take a manuscript and submit it to one of the big publishing houses and have them send us a big advance cheque, but if J. K. Rowling can write a hit like Harry Potter and still get rejection letters, what hope does the average citizen have?

Just like that old bouncing Amiga Ball, (seen here on Syd's shoulder) writing is about 'bouncing back' and 'rolling along' when inspiration wanes.
Just like that old bouncing Amiga Ball, (seen here on Syd’s shoulder) writing is about ‘bouncing back’ and ‘rolling along’ when inspiration wanes.

 

When I discovered the self-publishing site www.lulu.com, I thought it was definitely a dream come true. This site allows you to submit press-ready files and have a book produced for a very reasonable cost. In the past, the only way to get a reasonable unit cost (if at all) on a book was to order a minimum of 1,000 units. Now, the average size book can be purchased for 10 to 20 dollars, and it will be professionally produced and bound. How is this possible? Advanced technology has created what the industry calls print-on-demand and it has changed the game on how all of this works.

I wrote about lulu.com and the process itself several years ago and had a reader write back to me and asked about helping her get the files of her book ready. She had a very unique personal story and had, over the years, written the guts of a book about her experiences. She just had a Word file, however, and had no idea on how to produce the final layout document with a table of contents and so on. I told her I could help her out and provided a cost for her to do so and we took it from there.

The experience was a positive one overall. In the end, we had a few kinks to work out (and she always seemed to find something to change) but we produced a companion website and she ordered several copies of the book for her friends and family. It was a positive experience in the end because she now has her book in a real book format, and although she really didn’t sell that many copies, she did it because she always wanted to record her story on paper. She accomplished that.

It fired me up for working on my own projects. I couldn’t decide which one I wanted to tackle first, and then a more brilliant idea hit me out of nowhere. I started working on it. I didn’t have a gameplan other than knowing I was going to work on it until it was done. I was shocked to realize I had spent almost two years doing research alone, but I wanted to produce a quality product. Along my journey I talked to other friends who had also gone the self-publishing route, but had opted for a service called www.CreateSpace.com rather than LuLu. When I looked into the costs of manufacturing, I could see why. CreateSpace.com was much more affordable and for me this was especially important as I was doing a project that was full colour and has a limited audience.

So I switched, mid-book, to a new provider. I noted that CreateSpace.com is actually owned by Amazon, the world’s largest online book retailer. This has to be a good thing, but I’m glad I dug a little deeper into what challenges I might face as a Canadian. It turns out that you are going to need an IRS tax number in order to receive your royalties. That’s understandable. What is not, is the process. I tried calling and was on hold for what seemed like a lifetime, and I finally gave up. I tried faxing. The thing about faxing is you never really know what happens on the other end or where the piece of paper ends up. It’s also so 1999. I waited a few weeks and heard nothing. I tried calling back again and finally got through to someone who told me I actually had the wrong department and would be transferred. After a total of three hours on hold, I finally spoke to another person who asked me a couple of questions and I was a bit confused at the them (since they were not questions on the form). When I showed some hesitation, she went for the kill and referred me to faxing in the application to a different fax number than I had ever heard of. Eventually I just sent the fax to every IRS number I could find. Four weeks later, my number arrived.

I share my pain with you because I am glad that I started the process early on. I would have been devastated to have my project complete only to have it held up from selling due to a paperwork problem. If you are thinking about selling through a major channel like Amazon.com, you are wise to take care of this detail early on.

 

 

During the development of my book I took breaks. It can be difficult focusing so much on a single topic and it’s easy to lose your concentration and end up with a scattered project. A colleague approached me about putting together some simple-to-follow steps for a social media presentation I was working on, and I took the opportunity to turn that into a book. It is a small book, called “Mastering Social Media” but it was enough to get my feet wet about working with CreateSpace.com and the process. It turned out to be invaluable experience before my main book was ready.

This past July it finally happened. My book, “Collecting for Dragon’s Lair and Space Ace” was finally released and has been given all five-star ratings on Amazon. I am very proud of the book and all that it took to put together, but I know that the road to get there was not easy. It might seem like it, looking at the final product, but it took all of my experience with the previous books to get there. There are still hurdles… promotion is always a tough thing and reaching everyone you can with such a niche book will be a long slow road.

The best advice I have for those wanting to publish their own book is to just get out there and do it. There are so many options that exist now that the excuses for putting your work out there are now gone. It’s a different world out there – go live in it. For the Silo, Syd Bolton.

This article originally published in the print edn. of the Silo, Summer 2013.

Supplemental- 100 million images available for self-publishers.

 

 

 

 

Culture

This Quiz Helps You Discover Your Perfect Gap Year

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Hello There! Everyone dreams of taking some time off to travel. However, before settling on the location or how long you intend to stay abroad, as an intrepid explorer you should be thinking about exactly what type of gap year is right for you.

Perhaps you’re looking to explore off the beaten track? Add to your CV? Maybe you want to earn your own way as you travel?

Our friends at gapmedics.com have put together this quiz to help you make this tricky decision. For the Silo,  Isabel Swift.


 

Earth

Mexico City Bill Outlaws Whale And Dolphin Performances

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Mexico City, Mexico – In Defense of Animals has welcomed a landmark bill that prohibits the use of dolphins for entertainment. The Legislative Assembly of Mexico City passed a bill on Tuesday August 1, 2017, that outlaws cetacean performances and training, as well as whale and dolphin use in research or therapy.

“This landmark ban will spare generations of animals from cruelty and sends a clear message that the public increasingly rejects dolphin captivity,” said Dr. Toni Frohoff, Cetacean Scientist for In Defense of Animals. “We thank Mexico City officials for recognizing our Ten Worst Tanks list and acting swiftly to end the abuse. We urge Six Flags to retire the dolphins at a seaside sanctuary where they may recover.”

Mexico City Six Flags photo: Martin Lewison

Dolphin advocate Yolanda Alaniz, of Comarino Mexico, held a press conference with Environment Commission President, Xavier López Adame. “All parties, from rights to strong lefts voted just as one,” said Alaniz. “Deputies recognized dolphins as sentient beings who suffer living in concrete tanks. Politics spoke with ethics, and marked a new way to follow for our country, and we will follow this path.”

Two bottlenose dolphins and two sea lions will be directly affected by the new law. The dolphins are confined to a barren tank set in the middle of the Six Flags Mexico amusement park, the only facility in Mexico City that currently holds cetaceans captive. Previously known as Reino Aventura, the park is infamous for holding Keiko, the now-deceased orca used in the film “Free Willy”. The park ranked second worst in Mexico and sixth place overall on In Defense of Animals Ten Worst Tanks list.

photo: Martin Lewison
Dr. Toni Frohoff

For years, the dolphins have been regularly forced to perform circus acts as loud music blares. The dolphins have also been used for swim-with programs, where they are trained to perform contrived behaviors that simulate affection and sociability toward the paying public. The animals are coerced to give rides where people grab and hang onto their dorsal and pectoral fins and to give “kisses,” “hugs” and “handshakes.”

Six Flags Mexico is owned by Dolphin Discovery, a Mexican company that runs at least 24 captive dolphin facilities internationally.  For the Silo, Toni Frohoff, Ph.D.

For more information, please see www.idausa.org/10worsttanks

Featured image- Martin Lewison.

In Defense of Animals is an international animal protection organization with over 250,000 supporters and a 30-year history of fighting for animals, people and the environment through education, campaigns and hands-on rescue facilities in India, Africa, and rural Mississippi.

IN DEFENSE OF ANIMALS • 3010 KERNER BLVD. • SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901 • 415-448-0048 Please mention the Silo when contacting.

 

Travel

Travel Friendly Solutions That Will Enhance Your Experience

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As one who is exposed to new product innovations as a regular course of business, I’ve seen my fair share cool gear and smart solutions that’ll make the rigors of travel, well, that much less rigorous. From leading-edge technology to killer fashion and keepsakes to helpful health and wellness resources to things that just make jaunting more fun, here’s an awesome assortment of things I’m absolutely loving right now.

V-MODA Remix – Premium Bluetooth Speaker (www.V-Moda.com) – $300.00USD
Nothing beats a picnic or beach outing, or a killer backyard soiree, like your favorite tunes playing in the background. Now that’s super easy with the Remix Premium Bluetooth Speaker from V-MODA—the company’s first Bluetooth portable speaker boasting a built-in amplifier and hi-fi sound quality. As the world’s first 3D-printed custom speaker, all six sides of REMIX can be personalized (patent-pending). Using V-MODA’s renowned jewelry-grade 3D-printing expertise, owners can add new sides, change the front grill or even replace the main “C-shell” housing for the ultimate in bespoke appearance. Built on the foundation of V-MODA’s multi-award-winning audio technology, Remix projects precise and vibrant sound at all listening levels. Available in two finishes–minimal CNC aluminum and luxurious vegan leather–this premium speaker exemplifies the work of V-MODA’s Milano-based design studio. It’s classically styled, beautifully proportioned and completely customizable on all six sides to reflect the personality of its owner. Led by Chief Visionary Officer and professional musician Val Kolton, V-MODA blends analog renaissance age inspiration, Italian design and precise Japanese engineering. V-MODA products have reportedly won 40-plus editors’ choice awards and have become essential gear for the world’s top professional DJs.

Image: V-MODA

 

Cotton Junkies (www.CottonJunkies.com) – Starting at $31USD

Image: Cotton Junkies

Whether touring with family and friends or knocking around town, a great way to keep cool and comfortable, while still being fashionable, is with Cotton Junkies. This company’s super comfy tees are great year-round! They offer a nice range of tees and tank tops for both him and her in the softest of cotton–and the standout designs are super cool. Centered around an ethos of natural style, sex appeal and comfort, this brand new label combines cotton, the most comfortable of materials, with modern designs in eye-catching colors from charcoal greys and electric blues, to volcano reds and sage greens. From V-necks to crew necks, their secret is in the way the cotton is treated. All of their merchandise is handpicked, and uses a blend of organic cottons with other natural materials that are U.S. made and pre-washed for a true-to-you fit and style. This means they don’t shrink in the wash! What’s more the brand has a unisex feel, so a lot of the tees for him can be worn by her!

 

Grayton Automatic Watches ‘Radiance’ Collection (www.Grayton-Watches.com) – Starting at $200USD
For any travel itinerary, keeping time is of the essence. And, the ‘Radiance’ Collection from Grayton Automatic Watches is a way to do this in fab form. They feature a classy design and advanced quality reflecting the company’s exceptional experience of crafting automatic watches—and offering them at a reasonable price. Like the prayer flags that sway eternally in the breeze, the colors of the Radiance collection watch dials are said to be inspired by the unique color palette of Shangri-La: green alpine pastures, white-silver mountain snows or brown wooden Tibetan chalets in the old city itself. The elegance of the Radiance collection makes it the perfect combination between traditional and modern. Grayton choose top-quality materials for watch cases, straps and bracelets, and integrates a Japanese movement by Seiko—a respected standard in the watch industry and a token of quality. One of its finest features is its transparent backside design that allows you to see the detailed mechanical movements operating within the watch. Its super luminous colored hands will also tell you the time no matter how dark it is. Whether for style, quality or utility, This and other Grayton Automatic Watch designs can be handed down from one generation to another as valued family treasures.

Image: Grayton Automatic Watches

Grafo Maps (www.GrafoMap.com) – $49USD – $168USD
Here’s something great-looking and fashionable for your walls! Remind yourself of the place you grew up, went to college, your honeymoon location, or that unforgettable vacation spot with a beautifully designed custom map poster from Grafo Maps. These posters are an artful decor piece designed by you. The company’s easy-to-use online poster editing tool lets you design anyplace you love—you can even search by address. Once you have found the perfect spot you want to map, simply choose a color scheme that will add even more personality to your piece. Within days you will receive your unique one of a kind poster printed on acid-free 180g matte paper made to not only to look great, but also last a lifetime. You can order it framed or unframed. Place it in a special location as a reminder of that place you love or a special event. It’s sure to spark conversations with family and friends.

Image: Grafo Maps

tech21’s Impact Clear Urban Edition Case (www.Tech21.com) – $44.95USD

Image: Tech21

It’s imperative to keep that iPhone safe while out and about. Clear protection meets urban design with the Impact Clear Urban Edition Case from tech21. Inspired by minimalistic streetwear, The Urban Edition offers a unique geometric pattern with sleek and clean lines, fit for the fashion-conscious smartphone user looking to coordinate their case with their outfit in a subtle manner. tech21 products feature a highly advanced impact protection material called FlexShock, which is an ultra-thin and lightweight material that absorbs and dissipates force and can withstand drops up to 6.6 feet. With enhanced UV yellowing resistance and a durable, scratch resistant finish, your phone, and your case, will look better for a longer period of time. It’s available in two different styles and two colors (Brushed Black or Clear White) for the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus. Combining urban design with clear materials and advanced drop protection, the Urban Edition can keep your phone as beautiful as the day you took it out of the box.

Kardia Mobile (www.AliveCor.com) – $99USD
Here’s a way to stay heart healthy all year through and no matter where you are (however near or far from your doctor): the Kardia Mobile personal EKG. Sadly, more people die from heart disease and stroke each year than any other disease- but did you know that 80% of strokes are preventable? Kardia Mobile is a consumer EKG monitoring device that allows you to quickly access, track and analyze your heart health. Taking a clinical-grade heart rhythm reading in just 30 seconds, results are delivered right to your smartphone! Now you can know anytime, anywhere if your heart rhythm is normal, or if atrial fibrillation is detected—helpful data that can reduce your risk of stroke. Smaller than a credit card, it provides a way for people to easily take their health into their own hands. Kardia Mobile gives you peace of mind right from your pocket.

Image: AliveCor

International Hyperhidrosis Society ‘Fan Faves’ Products (www.SweatHelp.org) – Prices vary
Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, is a serious medical condition that affects approximately 5% of the population. This means that nearly 367 million people worldwide—including throngs of travelers—struggle with extreme, uncontrollable sweating…be it on their hands, feet, face, underarms, torso, lower extremities, or any combination of these—which greatly impacts their quality of life. From stress and embarrassment to depression and isolation, hyperhidrosis takes its toll; but there’s help! Since 2003, The International Hyperhidrosis Society has been providing information, resources, expert perspective, and support to those struggling with this condition. It’s is the only global non-profit organization dedicated entirely to improving the lives of those affected by hyperhidrosis while also supporting healthcare providers and researchers to improve hyperhidrosis treatments and understanding. From the International Hyperhidrosis Society’s website, SweatHelp.org, you’ll find up-to-date information on treatment options, U.S. insurance codes, clinical trials, a physician finder, an award-winning, useful blog, and much more. IHhS also maintains a useful product guide called “Fan Faves” where you can receive special discounts and discover ingenious, cutting-edge products to help handle even the sweatiest situations.

Image: The International Hyperhidrosis Society

WeCool Kits for Kids (www.BuyBobbleBitz.com) – $7.99USD – $29.99USD
For some crafty portable fun for kids I love the Compound Kings Makin’ Station from WeCool! This activity set lets kids make their own slimy mixture in just two quick-and-easy steps – and get it perfect every time. There’s no mess or long list of ingredients that need precise measuring. All they have to do is add water to the special powder mix in the activity center and the stretchy compound is ready within minutes! It yields more than one pound. Compound Kings offers a range of slimy mixes from single packs to activity sets, including glittery, fluffy, and crunchy slimes in addition to make-your-own varieties. Also awesome is WeCool’s Bobble Bitz Creation Station, an activity set featuring an irresistibly squishy, squeezy and crunchy medium that doubles as a molding compound. It’s a textured product kids have called “oddly satisfying” – like playing with bubble wrap. The set includes molds, tools and accessories so kids can make their own unique designs that air-harden overnight for cool 3D creations they can wear, share and display.

For the Silo, By Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor.

As the Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee Kern is an internationally-regarded consumer product trends expert and hospitality industry voice of authority–a travel, dining, leisure and lifestyle expert who spotlights noteworthy marketplace innovations, change makers, movers and shakers. She identifies and reports on exemplary travel destinations and experiences, extraordinary events and newsworthy products and services across all categories. Reach her online, on Twitter  , on Facebook and on Instagram.

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or sponsored at no cost to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***

Earth

Lake Erie Fisheries At Risk Or Set For Bolstering From Invading Fish

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No perch or pickerel in Lake Erie’s fisheries future? The tasty fish our Great Lakes are known for, and all other sport fish, could be decimated if the insidious Asian carp migrate from the Mississippi watershed.

Combined, the four Asian carp species could decimate the Great Lakes fishery by out competing our native fish.

Plankton, which is the base of the Great Lakes food chain, is consumed by silver and bighead carp. Grass carp prefer plants while black carp eat mollusks. Asian carp can consume up to 20 per cent of their weight every day.

Since escaping impounds near the mouth of the Mississippi River, the carp have spread north and are very near the Great Lakes in the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. So far, everything from electric barriers to water-propulsion jets to noise cannons have been considered to keep them at bay.

BING image search results for “Ontario Invasive Fish Species”.

But, the systems aren’t perfect. A silver carp was caught on June 22, just nine miles from Lake Michigan. Two weeks of intensive monitoring did not find any other carp. The captured fish has been sent for laboratory analysis to search for more clues on how it got there.

While some fear this is the beginning of the end, it should be noted that a bighead carp was also found in the area in 2010. The protocol for stepped-up monitoring wasn’t in place then, but no Asian carp have been found in the area in the ensuing seven years.

 

Most of the media attention rightfully is focused on the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal (zoom and scroll on the map above)  as a route for the invasion, but it is not the only possible route. Silver carp have been found in the Ohio River and that state’s Little and Great Miami Rivers – all pathways to Lake Erie. Barriers have improved in Indiana’s Eagle Marsh, where, during flooding, there is a possibility carp could move from the Mississippi watershed to Lake Erie.

Although science and technology continue the search for solutions to the Asian carp threat, politics can get in the way. The Great Lakes states, with the exception of Illinois and Indiana, were in favor of blocking the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. Perhaps the last president hailing from Chicago was a factor in this not happening.

While on holidays in Louisiana, I testified at Army Corps of Engineers hearings for their Great Lakes and Mississippi River Interbasin Study. I support chemical, electrical, vibration and other methods used to deter invasives moving up the Chicago canal.

The U.S. administration has stalled the release of their report, although two weeks ago, the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee approved a bill that would force its release.  The bill had support from both sides of the House.

Similarly, there has been bi-partisan support to block a move in the presidential budget that would slash the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative funding from $300 million to zero. A portion of that funding goes to Asian carp programs.

On the home front, I have pushed for legislation that Asian carp brought into Ontario for food must first be eviscerated.

Ontario has passed the Invasive Species Act, becoming the first province with legislation dedicated to addressing the threat. Asian carp are included in this law.

Much of the attention and expenditure on Asian carp has been south of the border. In my view, more could be done in Ontario. For the Silo, MPP Toby Barrett.

Featured image- Electrofishing for the invasive Asian carp (Photo By U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [Public domain]

Supplemental- Is Asian Carp ‘invasion’ actually a secret ‘stocking initiative’ for bolstering commercial fishing?  Published on 13 Aug 2013 Asian Carp Processing Plant- Kentucky -Two Rivers Fisheries in Wickliffe, KY is taking a run at the Asian Carp market. With an abundance of Bighead and Silver carp in nearby waterways, the fish market is set to process and sell these fish for consumption. Commercial fishermen have often said if you pay us for the invasive carp we will catch them and that is exactly what is happening in Western Kentucky.

Culture

Ancient Zen Story About Re-framing Failure Applies To Grant Applications

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When thinking about grant writing, it helps to first consider this story that tells about luck. In it, a farmer’s horse runs away and all his neighbors come by to say what bad luck this is. The farmer replies “maybe.” His horse returns and with it brings wild horses. The neighbors all say what good luck this is to which the farmer says, “maybe.” The farmer’s son, attempting to tame one of the wild horses, is thrown and breaks a leg. Bad luck, say the neighbors, “maybe” says the farmer. At last the army comes to town gathering up all the able bodied young men to go off to war. Seeing the farmer’s son with his broken leg they pass on by.

The story ends here, but it shows that things are often connected in ways we can’t possibly predict. A Lebanese saying reaches toward the very same point, “Don’t curse your bad luck because it may turn out to be your good luck.” Again the message here is that you can’t possibly know whether a single event is truly good or bad.

Failure can and should be viewed through the lens of stories and phrases like these. When we stumble, it is easy to fall into the trap of thinking of this one moment as some sort of endgame. On the contrary, every so-called failure is nothing more than the next step in your journey.

Failure feels personal. When you have worked hard on something, poured your very soul into it, only to have things not come to fruition, it can feel like the universe is pointing a finger directly at your forehead. Putting things into some context is one way to start seeing the bigger picture.

Shakey Graves- Roll the Bones. Bandcamp.

Grant applications are quite probably one of the best examples of this. There is so much riding on any given application, whether it is for a specific project or an artist’s general practice. Grants are one of the ways in which working artists stay afloat and they are not only time-consuming, they can feel extremely personal.

Not receiving a grant can set off a cycle of emotions. Everything from wondering what is wrong with your work or your application, to convincing yourself that this is the last chance and there’s no point trying again. Let’s unpack these very common reactions and shed some light on the reality of the situation.

For any given grant you may apply to, there are countless others also spending long hours writing up their own applications. Grants range all over the place in size and popularity, so to speak. Even smaller scale grants (say, those offered by lesser known organizations or tightly specified to certain disciplines) will often attract many applicants.

While there are certain strategies when it comes to writing a good grant application, there is no single, objective way to ensure that yours will be the one chosen. When it comes down to final decision time, there is a level of subjectivity built into the process. Art for example, is not a quantitative subject and nor are grants being awarded via algorithm. Rather, they are being decided by panels of human beings with a range of subjective emotions about a field that is as unscientific as it gets.

For the reasons above, when you do not receive a grant, think of it in terms of the many, many other applications rather than simply in terms of what you personally did wrong. Do not ignore this as a learning experience and do reach out the grant organization for feedback whenever possible, but do not let “no” from one or even a string of grant organizations stop you in your tracks.

Instead, recall the story and expression above. Think of every grant, in fact, every action, as nothing more than a single ripple on the surface of the vast river that is your journey. When you do not get into a gallery, carry on and find others. Down the line when you look back, you will have the clarity to see the progression of events. When you are passed over for a residency, apply to three more. If a project doesn’t work out the way you thought it would, evaluate what happened, learn from the experience, and move on down the road.

Brainard Carey. image: elmcityexpress.blogspot

No one is claiming that this is easy. This isn’t about somehow detaching from your feelings and letting rejection slide like water off a duck’s back. Of course not. Rejection hurts. No matter how impersonal it might actually be when we are told no it isn’t a good feeling.

But remembering that every moment is just that, a single blip on the screen rather than a career breaking catastrophe can help you heal and recharge sooner after you’ve had a misstep. Carry the simple answer of the farmer with you at all times, “maybe.”

For the Silo, Brainard Carey.

Brainard  is currently giving free webinars on how to write a better Artist bio and statement and how to get a show in a gallery – you can register for that live webinar and ask questions live by clicking here.

Travel

Sharing Economy Travel Market Leader Acquires Spanish Competitor Eyes America

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Nights Exchange Leader NightSwapping Acquires MyTwinPlace   NightSwapping is the first Nights exchange community with more than 250,000 members throughout 160 countries. It pioneered a new concept in 2012 which is unique in the sharing economy travel market. Read the PDF backgrounder by clicking here.

It takes the best parts of vacation rentals, home exchanges and Couch-surfing to let members travel for less or earn money. Whether you’re a traveler or a host, you earn Night credits with each trip which you can them use to travel or convert into money commission free.

Thanks to the innovative idea, you can keep traveling locally, authentically and meet friendly hosts and guests, all the while enjoying improved safety conditions and saving money.

In order to speed up its development, NightSwapping has acquired a Spanish competitor founded in 2013. MyTwinPlace’s community consists of 55,000 members throughout the world.

Serge Duriavig

According to Serge Duriavig, founder of NightSwapping, “this acquisition, which we have been preparing for the last few months, will allow us to significantly strengthen our community by bringing even more travel opportunities to our members, particularly in the booming Spanish market.
This deal affirms our ambition to become a mainstay in the sharing economy travel market. Thanks to MyTwinPlace, our goal to reach 300,000 members in 2017 is already realized. We aspire to reach 1,000,000 members in the next 2 years.”

For Xavier Labollos de Jesus and Jean Noel Saunier, the heads of MyTwinPlace, “the acquisition by NightSwapping is a guarantee that our community lives on serenely.”

In 2014 and 2016, NightSwapping raised 2 million euros successively with venture funds, Family Offices and Business Angels. A fundraising round that allowed the French upstart to grow its community tenfold.
A new round is scheduled before the end of the year, so NightSwapping can keep expanding, with an eye on the American market.

The website is available in seven languages; English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, German and Dutch. An app will soon be released on Google Play and the iPhone App Store.

Culture

Neglected Tallahatchie County Horses Seized And Rescued

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This article contains graphic images.  Cascilla, Miss. – Two Mississippi animal protection organizations have joined forces to rescue four neglected horses in Cascilla, Tallahatchie County. In Defense of Animals’ Justice for Animals Campaign and Jackson-based Mississippi Horses seized the starving and wounded animals from a property on Smith Road.

Concerned people who passed the property contacted the Justice for Animals campaign after witnessing the horses in a state of neglect.

Justice for Animals Director Doll Stanley and Tallahatchie County Deputy Albert Griffin met with the property owner to examine the conditions of the neglected horses. Two stallions, one mare, and her colt were confined to an area with no grass or other food to support the horses and no drinking water. One of the horses had a severe, untreated wound on his face.

A fifth horse was present on the property who seemed well-cared for. The badly-injured stallion had apparently stuck his head through an opening in the stall of the well-cared-for horse in an attempt to reach food, and had been severely bitten. One side of his head and his neck were scraped in the struggle to free himself when the other horse attacked him, leaving a ghastly bite wound that left an exposed section of bone on his face. The horse had not received medical attention.

An order was granted to the Tallahatchie County Sheriff’s Department for the seizure of the four horses on July 14 and was enforced that afternoon. Mississippi Horses immediately transported the injured horse to Mississippi State University Veterinary School for emergency treatment. The three other horses have been taken into the organization’s care for rehabilitation.

“In many cases of unintentional neglect, often in ignorance, we give guidance to animal guardians and monitor the recovery or check on the animals’ improved environment,” said Justice for Animals Director, Doll Stanley. “In this case, friendly guidance was not an option. Failure to provide the basic sustenance for horses and direly needed medical care, and failing to even reach out for help, has caused inexcusable suffering to these poor horses.”

In Defense of Animals has served in Mississippi for 24 years, aiding victims and law enforcement with hundreds of cruelty cases. In Defense of Animals’ Justice for Animals Campaign works with law enforcement to provide guidance on animal cruelty laws, advocate for stronger humane ordinances and statutes, and coordinate aid to rescue neglected and intentionally harmed animals.

Eleven miles south of Grenada, Mississippi, In Defense of Animals operates Hope Animal Sanctuary which rescues and cares for hundreds of animals including many victims of cruelty cases. Hope Animal Sanctuary is currently full and mid-way through a renovation project to replace its 20-year-old facilities with buildings, fencing, and modern amenities so that it may continue to provide hope for Mississippi’s cast-off, neglected, and unwanted animals for many years to come. Please support your local sanctuary www.idausa.org/HASrebuild2

In Defense of Animals’ Justice for Animals Campaign is working tirelessly to advance the cause for justice and show state legislators that the people of Mississippi are united against senseless and horrific animal abuse. Campaign members are aligning with Mississippi judges, prosecuting attorneys, law enforcement officials, legislators, animal advocates and concerned citizens to pass tougher state statutes and meaningful regional ordinances that will protect animals when state statutes fail. For the Silo, Doll Stanley IDA. 

In Defense of Animals is an international animal protection organization with over 250,000 supporters and a 30-year history of fighting for animals, people and the environment through education, campaigns and hands-on rescue facilities in India, Africa, and rural Mississippi.

All images- Fleur Dawes (In Defense of Animals)

IN DEFENSE OF ANIMALS • 3010 KERNER BLVD. • SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901 • 415-448-0048

Culture

Seven Years War Story Behind Our Civic Holiday

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As the civic holiday some refer to as Simcoe Day approaches, I wish to shine light on Upper Canada’s first lieutenant-governor.

Born Feb. 25, 1752, in England, John Graves Simcoe, although best known as lieutenant-governor, was also a member of British Parliament, colonial administrator, army officer, and commander of the Queen’s Rangers during the Revolutionary War.

Largely comprised of Loyalists and deserters from George Washington’s army, the Queen’s Rangers were named in tribute to Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George the Third. As a 400-man elite fighting force, established during the Seven Years War (1756-1763), they trained in woodcraft, scouting and guerilla warfare. Simcoe didn’t follow the protocol of the time of strict and rigid maneuvers. The Rangers wore green uniforms for camouflage, depended on speed and surprise, and were known to defeat forces three times their size.

Simcoe took time from the war to pursue a young lady named Sarah “Sally” Townsend. On Feb. 14, 1779, he sent her a poem in which he extolled her beauty and his love for her – the first recorded Valentine’s Day letter in North America.

That year Simcoe was ambushed by rebels, captured and imprisoned in New Jersey. He was treated harshly and his one attempt at escape was foiled. He was finally released on the signature of Benjamin Franklin as part of a prisoner of war exchange.

Following the defeat of the British at Yorktown in 1781, Simcoe spirited the Queen’s Rangers colours to England. Today they are on display in the officers’ mess of the Queen’s Rangers at Fort York, Toronto.

Simcoe returned to England, married Elizabeth Posthuma Gwilliam and was elected Member of Parliament for the borough of St. Maws, Cornwall.

On Sept. 12, 1791, Simcoe was appointed lieutenant-governor of the newly-created Upper Canada.

With his appointment, Simcoe had a goal to develop Upper Canada as a model community with aristocratic and conservative principles, and to demonstrate the superiority of these ideas in contrast to the Republicanism of the United States.

He opened the first elected parliament in what is now Ontario 225 years ago on Sept. 17, 1792. He is credited for installing British common law, trial by jury, the standardization of weights and measures and the establishment of Ontario’s system of municipal government.

In 1793, under Simcoe, the assembly passed the first act against the importation of slaves in the British Empire. Slavery had completely ended in Upper Canada before it was abolished in the British Empire as a whole in 1834.

Simcoe realized Newark was an unsuitable capital because it was on the border and open to attack. He suggested moving the capital to a defensible position, named the location London and renamed its main river the Thames. This proposal was rejected, but Simcoe’s second choice, the present site of Toronto, was accepted. The capital was moved there in 1793 and renamed York.

The Queen’s Rangers were revived and Simcoe had them begin construction on Yonge Street.

Simcoe returned to England for health reasons in July 1796 and died there on Oct. 26, 1806.

Over two centuries later, many refer to the Civic Holiday in August as Simcoe Day. Attempts to give Simcoe Day provincial recognition has failed.

To celebrate Ontario’s 225th; visit my web site at www.tobybarrett.com to test your knowledge of our province.

 

Culture

Most Common Neighbor Disputes In Britain

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Neighbor disputes are fairly common. They can arise for a number of reasons, such as shared land and amenities, repairs, boundaries, noise or parking spaces. How you deal with these could determine how comfortable you feel in your house and your neighborhood. So many times, disputes can escalate unnecessarily and leave both parties stressed, angry and sometimes out of pocket.

In this guide we look at some of the most common neighbor disputes in Britain and give tips on how to handle them and more importantly, how to resolve them peacefully.



Infographic courtesy of our friends at castironradiators4u.co.uk

Culture

Reactions To Walking In Downtown Albuquerque

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The mayor of a beautiful American city filled with wonderful people-but part of a state often thought to be in a different country, had a serious but undiagnosed problem. It was known to many residents, but the mayor seemed blissfully unaware for months of what was going on. Violence and robberies dominated the local newscasts daily. Sometimes, homeless people wandered the streets, some aimlessly talking to themselves and sometimes angrily punching the air.

The crime and other mayoral inaction were causing businesses both bigger and small to consider leaving the city or see their cash flow diminish to dangerously low positions. Mayor R.J. Berry was forced to make some small moves, when the situation continued to deteriorate.

Winter 2016- via CBS news. Click to read more.

However, a little known urban legend said that the mayor had become inwardly obsessed with what he felt he had really accomplished for the city. In private communications with upper level staff, friends and family, it’s said the mayor had even begun referring to his city as Wonderland.

Those who knew better were both flabbergasted and horrified when a local chamber of commerce presented the mayor with a public safety award. They worried that it seemed to further help him edge closer to becoming a legend in his own mind.

We wanted to know what a few of our Joy Junction homeless shelter guests felt about safety in Albuquerque. Their reactions were a mixed bag.

We asked them about walking in downtown “Wonderland” (also known as Albuquerque), if they felt safe, and whether they had answers for our burgeoning crime situation.

One person was quite blunt, saying “Crime in downtown Albuquerque is getting more dangerous and violent everyday. No, I do not feel safe (there). If I have to go downtown, I leave as soon as I am finished with business. I do not have any answers to our increasing crime issues.”

One man said what many of us know, that crime is “really high” in downtown.

“Walking throughout the areas I have been in, I always feel a sudden sensation come over me and I am instantly on guard. I have seen here a different side of addiction that I have not been exposed to.”

He added, “We were moved to the point we sent our teenage daughters to finish school in another state.”

One woman said that in her opinion, crime in Albuquerque has risen dramatically, especially in the area known as the International Zone (formerly the War Zone).

“Downtown is beginning to be the same way. I don’t know what can possibly be done; maybe more police officers. I have two grandchildren, and I do have concern that they are kept safe even at school. I pray here at Joy Junction that we are kept safe and that no one ever comes and does harm to people here.’

Another woman said she thinks “Albuquerque is focused on extremes like bad, bigger and bolder than the norm.”

She continued, “I do feel safe mostly because I walk safe, stay alert to people surroundings and sound. I adapt to strange or abnormal situations, and react or change my path or seek a different route. I have never really encountered a dangerous situation on the sidewalks. Only a few drunks at the bus stops, and the panhandling for cigarettes and change are maddening and relentless though.”

Her parting shot was, “I have no answers. If I did I would run for city council.”

One woman said she feels that crime in Albuquerque has definitely risen since she moved here in the fall of 2014.

She continued, “Car thefts seem to be happening a lot. There is a lack of respect for law enforcement, and criminals have no fear of consequences … I feel a little apprehensive. Even just going through Downtown in a vehicle is somewhat unnerving.”

She was right. Albuquerque is number one per capita for car thieves in the nation.

She was shocked when her family told her, “‘Do not ever walk especially by yourself anywhere downtown because you can be attacked and the crime is extremely high.’ It is very sad that crime was the first thing I was told (about) when moving here.”

Her solution was to “Put God back in America.

She added, “We need to get on our knees and pray. We as a country are reaping what we have sown, and we will be judged for all our actions and as Christians we know that the end is coming and God’s judgment is coming.”

So what do I think of Berry’s plan? Well, I don’t share the local newspaper’s enthusiasm. Too little and way too late. An enhanced police presence and independent security are good, but what about those who for whatever reason don’t want, or aren’t in a state of mind, to receive help?

Another of the mayor’s efforts is to make downtown cleaner, with more street sweepers and trash pickup. Preventative maintenance would have been a whole lot more helpful. Really, it took a crisis to come up with this?

And then only Mayor Wonderful could have come up with this one. Having strong relationships with businesses downtown, to make sure they stay downtown. And we couldn’t have put this into place before now?

And the grant to the city from Bloomberg Philanthropies for $1.2 million USD. The by now infamous Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce award was given to Berry at least in part for using a portion of it for intelligent ways to solve crime. However, it looks like up until now the funds have been used to develop plans for Albuquerque’s Arts and Culture District.

Never fear, though. The city says plans for public safety initiatives funded by the grant are moving forward.

No one except apparently the mayor thinks his solutions to crime (or homelessness) are magical. This is not (Alice in) Wonderland. The stakes are much higher. For the Silo, Jeremy Reynalds- Joy Junction/HNS (Homeless News Service).

Featured image- Albuquerque Mayor R. J. Berry via PBS.
A portion of this article is satire, and as such is protected speech.

 

 

Supplemental- The other perspective. Downtown Albuquerque residents defend their neighborhood-

 

 

Culture

I Am Content To Keep Watching While Men Dominate F1

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Author Lacey Dearie moved her marriage date and delayed her honeymoon departure so that she didn’t miss any of the French F1 Grand Prix coverage that year.

The first time I watched an F1 Grand Prix was the race in Australia in 1998. I’d been persuaded by a friend who loved Canadian driver, Jacques Villeneuve, to watch and found myself gripped. Being a Scot, my instinct was to cheer for my fellow countryman, David Coulthard. I was thrilled when he led the race, then devastated when he pulled over and let Mika Hakkinen win due to a “gentleman’s agreement” made before the race had begun. As disappointing as the situation was, I couldn’t help but adore the spectacle I’d just witnessed. It’s that kind of exhilaration that has kept me tuning in to watch every race since March 1998.
The drama is just part of why I’m a fan. I love the pre-race interviews with the drivers who can be either insightful or guarded and often humorous, the anticipation when the red lights go out, the horror when someone crashes, the relief when drivers walk away from mangled wrecks and the bliss when my favourite team or driver win and receive their trophy on the podium. I have the whole spectrum of emotions while watching a race. It just makes you feel alive.

Being a female fan of a male dominated sport means most of my girlfriends find F1 boring, or they just don’t get it. To them, it’s a bunch of foreigners driving in circles. To me, it’s so much more. However, there are advantages to being a female fan. A shared love of motor sport is the only thing I have in common with my middle aged male boss and fills awkward gaps in conversation during lunch breaks or trips away from the office. When my male friends roll their eyes because I don’t understand soccer’s offside rule, I counter that with a sarcastic sigh when they ask me to explain how KERS works.
The only thing that ever concerned me, as a female fan, was the lack of merchandise available for women, but it has greatly improved in the last couple of years. Ferrari even sell their very own bikini, although I can’t imagine any of the female fans I know wearing one while watching a race.

At the time of this writing, only five women have ever reached the fringes of Formula One and only one of them has ever won a race in a Formula One car- Desiré Wilson.

My husband doesn’t share my passion for F1, but was extremely understanding when I suggested we got married on a Friday and delayed the departure for our honeymoon to the following Monday so that I didn’t miss any of the French Grand Prix coverage that year. He’s accompanied me on several trips to the David Coulthard Museum in Twynholm, Scotland and humored me when I suggested that, if our son grows up to become an F1 fan, we make the family holiday each year a trip to a different Grand Prix. I even joke that I planned the birth of my son for February to ensure I didn’t miss any races due to childbirth. Obviously I’m not serious, although my friends and family are skeptical.

Women who don’t appreciate my love of the sport can be critical of the lack of female participants, but it’s honestly something that never occurred to me until I heard men discussing whether it was wrong or right. All the current F1 drivers are men, and the majority of people involved in the sport are male too. I genuinely don’t care. I’m sure if there were any women out there with the skills and talent to participate, they wouldn’t be denied the chance to race. I don’t believe in positive discrimination, so until such a woman comes along, I’m content to keep watching while men dominate.

Lacey Dearie is an indie author from Ayrshire, Scotland and a new writer for the Silo. Her first novel, The Tangled Web became #1 in the Amazon UK Free Download Chart in January 2012. If you would like to read more about The David Coulthard Museum, please visit the website www.dcmuseum.co.uk/museum

Supplemental– http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/2008/04/21/where-are-all-the-women/ [circa 2008 data]

Culture

Canada Space Museum Partners On Search For Historic Avro Arrow Test Models

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 The Canada Aviation and Space Museum is proud to support OEX Recovery Group Incorporated (“OEX”), in a project involving the search-and-recovery of nine free-flight Avro Arrow models from Lake Ontario. The project was created by OEX as a Canada 150 initiative.

As one of the three museums under the new Ingenium banner, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum – in collaboration with the Canadian Conservation Institute – will provide historical information to support the conservation, treatment, and collection of any recovered models or materials.

The Avro Arrow was the first and last supersonic interceptor designed and built in Canada. Developed between 1953 and 1959, it was produced to counter jet-powered Soviet bombers that had the potential to attack North America over the Arctic.

The nine Avro Arrow free-flight models that OEX hopes to locate and recover were test models used to evaluate aerodynamic qualities and stability of the storied aircraft’s design. They were flown over Lake Ontario between 1954 and 1957.

Through a national partnership involving the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, OEX, the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Conservation Institute, the Museum will keep the public apprised of any milestones in the search-and-recovery mission. It will also provide periodic updates on plans for conservation, preparation and public exhibition of the artifacts.

OEX holds survey and recovery permits from the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. It is financially supported by a group of Canadian mining companies and financial institutions, and is funding survey and recovery work, as well as committing to conservation work and display costs.

Follow this exciting story as it unfolds, using the hashtag #raisethearrow or via IngeniumCanada.org.

Quotations

“Our museum is thrilled to be partnering on this historically significant search-and-recovery project. The Canada Aviation and Space Museum’s collection comprises the largest surviving pieces of the Avro Arrow: a nose section and two wingtips. A free-flight model would be a wonderful addition to our collection, and to the Arrow story we share with Canadians.”

– Fern Proulx, interim President and CEO of Ingenium

 “As professional explorers in the mining business, we initiated this program about a year ago with the idea of bringing back a piece of lost Canadian history to the Canadian public.  As individuals, as a company, as a group and with our partners and our project participants in this search effort, we all have the same goal in mind:  to find and return these beautiful pieces of Canadian technology to the public eye during this anniversary year of our incredible country.  Like Avro, our own corporate group was built on dreams, and this project is a proud reminder of what we as Canadians have done, what we do, and what we can do.”

– John Burzynski, President and CEO of Osisko Mining Inc. and head of OEX Recovery Group Incorporated

For the Silo, Zoë Lomer.

About the  Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Located on a former military air base just 5 kilometres from the Prime Minister’s residence at 24 Sussex Drive in Ottawa, the Museum focuses on aviation in Canada within an international context, from its beginnings in 1909 to the present day. As Canada’s contribution to aviation expanded to include aerospace technology, the Museum’s collection and mandate grew to include space flight. The Collection itself consists of more than 130 aircraft and artifacts (propellers, engines) from both civil and military service. It gives particular, but not exclusive, reference to Canadian achievements. The most extensive aviation collection in Canada, it is also considered one of the finest aviation museums in the world.

Museum Highlights: Largest surviving pieces of the famous Avro Arrow (its nose section and two wing tips); the original Canadarm used on the Endeavour space shuttle; Lancaster WWII bomber; Life in Orbit: The International Space Station exhibition.

About Ingenium – Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation
Launched in June 2017, Ingenium is a new national brand established to preserve and share Canada’s story of scientific and technological heritage. This corporate brand, which celebrates ingenuity, encompasses three national institutions – the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum. Under the Ingenium brand, these three museums are places where the past meets the future, with spaces where visitors can learn and explore, play and discover. Ingenium also has an eye to the future with a state-of-the-art Collections Conservation Centre, set to open in 2018, digital and social media platforms, and travelling national and international exhibitions to educate, entertain and engage audiences across Canada and around the world. For more, visit us: IngeniumCanada.org.

 

Association entre le Musée de l’aviation et de l’espace du Canada et des partenaires nationaux pour la recherche et la récupération d’appareils Arrow de Avro à vol libre dans le lac Ontario

OTTAWA, le 14 juillet 2017 – Le Musée de l’aviation et de l’espace du Canada est fier de soutenir le OEX Recovery Group Incorporated (« OEX ») pour un projet de recherche et de récupération de neuf appareils Arrow de Avro à vol libre dans le lac Ontario. OEX a mis sur pied ce projet dans le cadre d’une initiative Canada 150.

Le Musée de l’aviation et de l’espace du Canada, l’un des trois musées de la bannière Ingenium, en collaboration avec l’Institut canadien de conservation, fournira des renseignements historiques pour soutenir la conservation, le traitement et la collecte de tout appareil ou matériel récupéré.

L’appareil Arrow de Avro a été le premier et le dernier intercepteur supersonique de conception et de fabrication canadienne. Créé entre 1953 et 1959, il a été produit pour résister aux bombardiers à turboréacteurs soviétiques qui avaient la capacité d’attaquer l’Amérique du Nord en passant par l’Arctique.

Les neuf appareils Arrow de Avro à vol libre que OEX espère repérer et récupérer étaient des maquettes utilisées pour évaluer les caractéristiques aérodynamiques et la stabilité de la conception légendaire de l’aéronef. Ils ont survolé le lac Ontario entre 1954 et 1957.

Dans le cadre d’un partenariat national entre le Musée de l’aviation et de l’espace du Canada, OEX, l’Aviation royale canadienne et l’Institut canadien de conservation, le Musée tiendra le public informé sur les étapes de la mission de recherche et de récupération. Il fournira également des mises à jour périodiques sur les plans de conservation, de préparation et d’expositions publiques des artefacts.

OEX détient des permis de reconnaissance et de récupération du ministère du Tourisme, de la Culture et du Sport de l’Ontario, et est soutenu financièrement par un groupe de sociétés minières et d’institutions financières. L’organisme finance le travail de reconnaissance et de récupération, et s’engage à soutenir les coûts de conservation et d’exposition.

Suivez le déroulement de cette passionnante histoire à l’aide du mot-clic #rechercherArrow ou en cliquant sur IngeniumCanada.org.

– 30 –

Citations

« Notre Musée est ravi de son partenariat pour ce projet de recherche et de récupération d’importance historique. La collection du Musée de l’aviation et de l’espace du Canada compte les plus grandes pièces restantes de l’Arrow d’Avro : une partie avant et deux extrémités d’ailes. Un appareil à vol libre serait un merveilleux ajout à notre collection ainsi qu’à l’histoire du Arrow que nous partageons avec les Canadiens. »

– Fern Proulx, président-directeur général par intérim d’Ingenium

« En tant qu’explorateurs professionnels du secteur minier, nous avons lancé ce programme il y a environ un an dans le but de présenter un morceau perdu de l’histoire canadienne aux citoyens. En tant qu’individus, qu’entreprise, que groupe et avec nos partenaires et les personnes participant à ce projet de recherche, nous avons un seul objectif : retrouver et retourner ces magnifiques pièces de technologie canadienne au public pendant l’année anniversaire de notre superbe pays. Tout comme Avro, notre propre groupe de sociétés s’est bâti sur des rêves, et ce projet rappelle fièrement ce que nous avons fait, ce que nous faisons et ce que nous pouvons faire en tant que Canadiens. »

– John Burzynski, président-directeur général de la minière Osisko et chef du OEX Recovery Group Incorporated

Le Musée de l’aviation et de l’espace du Canada
Le Musée : Situé sur une ancienne base militaire à seulement cinq kilomètres du 24, prom. Sussex à Ottawa, résidence du premier ministre, le Musée concentre ses activités sur l’aviation au Canada dans un contexte international, des débuts de l’aviation au Canada en 1909 jusqu’à nos jours. Comme la contribution à l’aviation du Canada a évolué pour inclure les technologies aérospatiales, la collection et le mandat du Musée se sont aussi élargis pour inclure les vols spatiaux. La collection comprend plus de 130 aéronefs et artéfacts (hélices, moteurs) militaires et civils. L’accent est mis, mais n’est pas exclusif, sur les réalisations canadiennes. Il s’agit de la collection d’aéronefs la plus importante au Canada, et l’un des plus beaux musées mondiaux de l’aviation.

Pièces de résistance: Le plus gros élément du fameux Avro Arrow encore disponible (le nez de l’appareil); le Canadarm d’origine de la navette spatiale Endeavour; le bombardier Lancaster WWII; l’exposition Vivre en orbite : la station spatiale internationale.

À propos d’Ingenium : Musées des sciences et de l’innovation du Canada
Dévoilée en juin 2017, Ingenium est une nouvelle identité qui a été adoptée pour préserver et raconter l’histoire du patrimoine scientifique et technologique du Canada. S’inspirant de la racine latine du mot « ingéniosité », cette identité corporative englobe trois institutions nationales, soit le Musée de l’agriculture et de l’alimentation du Canada, le Musée de l’aviation et de l’espace du Canada et le Musée des sciences et de la technologie du Canada. Sous l’identité Ingenium, ces trois musées deviennent des lieux où le passé rejoint le futur, et où les visiteurs peuvent apprendre et explorer, s’amuser et faire des découvertes. Ingenium se tourne aussi vers l’avenir grâce à son Centre de conservation des collections à la fine pointe de la technologie, dont l’ouverture est prévue en 2018, à ses plateformes numériques et sociales, ainsi qu’à ses expositions itinérantes d’envergure nationale et internationale qui sauront éduquer, divertir et captiver des publics de tous âges partout au Canada et dans le monde entier. Pour en savoir davantage, visitez-nous à IngeniumCanada.org/fr.

Culture

No Cost Auto Coupon Button Applies Savings At Checkout For Online Shopping

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I’d like to tell you about an easy shopping hack that moves coupon clipping into the 21st Century.

Gumdrop by Goodshop is a new free browser button which automatically finds and applies the best coupons at checkout when you are shopping online at more than 30,000 retailers including Kohl’s, Toys R Us and Amazon. It takes just a few seconds to add and then you can enjoy big discounts and save precious time by not having to search for antiquated ‘print’ coupons or cut and paste promo codes!

In addition, if you select a cause, a portion of what you spend at participating stores will be donated to that cause for free.

To date, Gumdrop has saved shoppers more than $100 million USD and donated nearly $13 million USD which has gone to find homes for stray animals, build playgrounds, fund cancer research and more. For the Silo, J.J. Ramberg.

Fashion

New Fashion Via Global Electronic Commerce Platform AliExpress

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Based in Hangzou, China, AliExpress  is a global e-commerce platform made up of small business sellers offering a wide variety of consumer products worldwide. This growing platform already has (at the time of this writing) over 3 million likes on Facebook. An impressive number that speaks to the desirability of products on hand.

What makes AliExpress unique is the cellular nature of its structure. Many small businesses looking for a safe harbor are connected together and operate under the umbrella support of the larger corporate structure. Is this the ‘best of both worlds?’ We think it’s an interesting model and worth paying attention to. After all, a smaller company no longer has to struggle to develop an online identity or spend valuable resources designing and implementing a shopping ap. Yep- AliExpress has a pretty cool Ap that allows you to shop from Facebook and beyond…

Here’s a look at some of its Fashion small business sellers- Did you find something you like?

SheIn SheIn

Sci-Tech

New Book Is Inventors Guide To Open Source Arduino Microcontroller

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San Francisco, CA —School’s out for summer, but learning doesn’t have to stop at the classroom door. For parents and educators looking to keep their students exploring, tinkering, and creating, No Starch Press offers the latest addition to its lineup of STEM books. This time focusing on the Arduino microcontroller.

The Arduino Inventor’s Guide (No Starch Press, $29.95USD, 336 pp., June 2017) is a project-packed introduction to building and coding with the Arduino microcontroller. With each hands-on project, total beginners learn useful electronics and coding skills while building an interactive gadget.

This is No Starch Press’s second installment in its introductory-level educational series for aspiring makers. The series is a collaboration with SparkFun Electronics, the popular electronics parts retailer dedicated to making the world of electronics more accessible to the average person. Authors Brian Huang and Derek Runberg of SparkFun’s Department of Education use their teaching experience to make learning about electronics an adventure.

“We wanted to share the magic that happens when you build something interactive with electronics,” says Huang. “The goal is to teach real, valuable hardware skills, one project at a time,” adds Runberg.

Readers learn how to make their hardware move, buzz, flash, and interact with the world as they build 10 projects, including:

  • A miniature traffic light
  • A light-sensitive, color-changing night-light
  • A temperature-sensing mini greenhouse
  • A motorized, programmable robot
  • A tiny, playable electric piano

“We’ve teamed up with SparkFun to make electronics and coding skills achievable for anyone,” says No Starch Press founder Bill Pollock. “This book will take total beginners from blinking their first LED to programming their first robot.”

 

Sample pages from The Arduino Inventor’s Guide:

For the Silo, Amanda Hariri.
About the Authors

Brian Huang is the Education Engineer for SparkFun Electronics. He combines his knowledge of teaching and engineering to create professional development materials.

Derek Runberg works in the Department of Education at SparkFun Electronics, where he runs workshops about technology in classrooms and at conferences. He is the author of The SparkFun Guide to Processing.

SparkFun Electronics is an online retail store that sells electronic parts for DIY projects. It offers classes for the public as well as resources, tutorials, and professional development for educators through its Department of Education.

Arduino Inventor's Guide The Arduino Inventor’s Guide
Publisher: No Starch Press
Authors: Brian Huang and Derek Runberg
Print ISBN: 978-1-59327-652-2
Price: $29.95USD
Publication Date: June 2017
Specs: 336 pp., 4C  Available in fine bookstores everywhere, contact [email protected] for locations near you and online ordering information.About No Starch Press
From deep in the heart of San Francisco’s start-up gulch, No Starch Press carefully crafts the finest in geek entertainment. The growing list of award-winning No Starch Press bestsellers covers topics like LEGO, hacking, STEM, programming, science, and math. Our titles have personality, our authors are passionate, and our books tackle topics that people care about.
Earth

It Will Cost Over $45 Billion To Clean Up Alberta Toxic Tailings Ponds

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The numbers are staggering. For over 50 years, the tars sands industry in Alberta has been producing a toxic brew of water, sand, silt and petrochemical waste products and storing them in what the industry refers to as “tailings ponds”.  And, the volumes are only growing – surpassing 1 TRILLION litres, covering an area greater than Toronto and Vancouver combined!

Won’t you help us fight to clean up this mess?

Every day 25 million new litres of tailings are added to the ever growing toxic tailings ponds. These tailings ponds leach toxic chemicals, like lead, mercury, arsenic and benzene – putting local and downstream communities at risk. First Nations living in Fort Chipewyan, 200 km downstream from the oil sands development sites, have experienced higher than normal rates of cancer as a result.

We cannot stand idly by and do nothing.

We are working hard to ensure that regulations are implemented that are stringent, binding and effective. And, that they reduce the volume of tailings, guarantee existing tailings ponds are treated at a faster rate than they are produced and make oil sands companies bear full financial responsibility for the cleanup (now estimated at over $45 billion and growing).

With my sincere gratitude,

Dale Marshall
National Program Manager

P.S. We just released our report on Alberta’s tailings ponds – you can read it and check out the live trackings of tailings ponds volume and clean up liability here.
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Environmental Defence Canada – 116 Spadina Avenue, Suite 300, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2K6

Featured image- blogs.nelson.wisc.edu/es112albertasaskatchewan301/water/

Culture

Canada Uses USA Ad Agency To Snipe American Trademark In Time For 150th

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With this Saturday, July 1st marking the celebration of Canada’s 150th Anniversary, the country recently hired the renowned New York ad agency Juized (*satirical)  to rebrand the nation as “The Greatest Country On Earth”. This phrase has typically been associated with the U.S., but America let the trademark slip and Canada has scooped it up and taken it as her own.

image concept- J. Barker

Juized is actively promoting the phrase and image for Canada, while redesigning the Canadian flag and revamping the national anthem to reflect this new status.

Juized has just released this short video on the challenges of rebranding Canada in anticipation of the campaign release on Canada Day.

While the rebranding of Canada may be a marketer’s dream it is actually the imaginary creation of Media-Corps,a dual-client sales agency and the largest Canadian Media Representative in the U.S. The company created the Juized video * about Americans not getting Canada with the help of 2 top funny men — CBC’s Pat Kelly and Peter Oldring as a tribute to the Canadian milestone and to show appreciation for Canada’s unique culture.

Robert Laplante

A native Canadian, Media-Corp’s founder Robert Laplante helps American advertisers understand that for a brand to be successful beyond its own borders, it’s critical to understand the different demographics and their behaviors. For the Silo, Susan Mackasey.

Supplemental- Top Ten New York City Ad Agencies

Philanthropy

Mark Canada 150 By Raising 150K Meals For Haiti Children With This UN App

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CANADA – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has launched the #ASK1TOASK1 campaign, asking all Canadians to join the challenge to raise 150,000 meals for children in Haiti through the ShareTheMeal app to mark Canada’s 150th anniversary.

Every day, countless children in Haiti turn up for school on an empty stomach, which makes it hard to focus on lessons. A daily school meal can mean not only better nutrition and health, but help the next generation reach its full potential. The #ASK1TOASK1 ShareTheMeal campaign will allow WFP to scale up their Home Grown School Meals programme in Haiti.

It costs just $4.55cdn, less than a bottle of maple syrup, to provide one week of nutritious meals to children in school through the ShareTheMeal app! The app allows users to share nutritious food with hungry children around the world by simply tapping on their smartphone and donating $0.65 or more.

“WFP’s ShareTheMeal app and the #ASK1TOASK1 campaign provides Canadians with an easy way to share meals with hungry children in Haiti,” said Robert Opp, a Canadian who is Director of Innovation and Change Management at WFP.
“Daily school meals allow children to focus on their studies rather than their stomachs, feeding their dreams for the future.”

Robert Opp

Haiti has been repeatedly affected by a series of devastating natural disasters over the last two decades. 2016 was the third consecutive year of El Nino-related drought, and the country was hit by the category 4 Hurricane Matthew, which left more than 800,000 people in need of urgent food assistance.

In Haiti, WFP is working together with the Government to produce a sustainable, nationally-owned, school feeding programme linked to local agricultural production. WFP procures local commodities such as rice, fresh fruit and vegetables from the local smallholder farmers, giving them a predictable market for their products and the children enjoy a healthy diversified school meal.

Join WFP Ambassador Against Hunger, George Stroumboulopoulos and other celebrities like World Champion Wrestler Andre Berto, Singer Dawn Richard and Canadian national Olympic Weightlifter Isabel Lahela who have all committed to help fundraise for the children in Haiti. To get involved, simply download the free app, join team #Canuck and once you have fed a child for a week share with your social media network, using the hashtag #ASK1TOASK1.

WFP’s award-winning app has engaged a new generation in supporting the fight against hunger. More than 850,000 people have downloaded the app and shared over 14 million meals with thousands of vulnerable children in Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Malawi, Cameroon, South Sudan and Yemen.

image- worldvision.org.uk

The ShareTheMeal community recently contributed to WFP’s famine response in South Sudan, where users shared 1 million meals with those people in dire need of food.

WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide, delivering food assistance in emergencies and working with communities to improve nutrition and build resilience. Each year, WFP assists some 80 million people in around 80 countries.

ShareTheMeal allows smartphone users to share their meals with hungry people via a free iOS and Android app. ShareTheMeal is an initiative of the World Food Programme Innovation Accelerator.

Download the app here.
For more information, please visit: https://sharethemeal.org/canuck.html

Follow us on Twitter @wfp_Canada and @ShareTheMealorg

For the Silo, Laura Mirarchi & Julie Marshall, WFP/Toronto.

Featured image- http://www.public-value.cbc.radio-canada.ca/story/1/

LE PAM ET SHARETHEMEAL LANCENT UNE CAMPAGNE POUR DISTRIBUER 150 000 REPAS À DES ENFANTS EN HAÏTI EN L’HONNEUR DU 150ÈME ANNIVERSAIRE DU CANADA

CANADA – Le Programme Alimentaire Mondial (PAM) des Nations Unies démarre aujourd’hui la campagne #ASK1TOASK1, qui propose aux Canadiens de participer à un challenge visant à distribuer 150 000 repas à des enfants en Haïti via l’application ShareTheMeal en l’honneur du 150ème anniversaire du Canada.

Chaque jour, de très nombreux enfants haïtiens vont à l’école le ventre vide, ce qui les empêche de se concentrer. En plus d’améliorer leur nutrition et leur santé, un repas scolaire quotidien peut permettre à la prochaine génération d’atteindre pleinement son potentiel. La campagne #Ask1toAsk1 de ShareTheMeal permettra au PAM d’étendre la portée de son programme “Home Grown School Meals”, qui fournit des repas scolaires produits localement.

Avec l’application ShareTheMeal, fournir une semaine de repas scolaires nourrissants à des enfants ne coûte que $4,55, soit moins qu’une bouteille de sirop d’érable ! L’application permet aux utilisateurs de partager de la nourriture saine avec des enfants dans le besoin en quelques clics sur leur smartphone, en faisant des dons de $0,65 ou plus.

Robert Opp, directeur canadien de l’Innovation et du Changement au PAM, dit que “ l’application ShareTheMeal et la campagne #ASK1TOASK1 offrent aux Canadiens un moyen simple de partager des repas avec des enfants dans le besoin en Haïti.”
“Des repas scolaires quotidiens permettent aux enfants de se concentrer sur leurs études et non sur leur estomac, alimentant leurs projets futurs”

Haïti a été touché par une série de graves catastrophes naturelles lors des deux dernières décennies. En 2016, le pays a connu pour la troisième année consécutive des sécheresses causées par El Nino, et a été touché par l’ouragan Matthew de catégorie 4. En conséquence, plus de 800 000 personnes ont un besoin urgent d’assistance alimentaire.
En Haïti, le PAM collabore avec le gouvernement pour mettre en place un programme de repas scolaires durable et public, qui s’appuie sur l’agriculture locale. Le PAM se fournit en produits locaux auprès d’agriculteurs haïtiens de petite taille. Ces achats de riz, fruits et légumes frais donnent accès aux producteurs à un marché stable et offrent aux enfants des repas sains et variés.

Rejoignez l’ambassadeur du PAM George Stroumboulopoulos et d’autres célébrités comme le Champion du monde de lutte Andre Berto, la chanteuse Dawn Richard et l’haltérophile Isabel Lahela, qui se sont engagés à aider à collecter des fonds pour les enfants en Haïti. Pour participer, vous n’avez qu’à télécharger gratuitement l’application, rejoindre l’équipe #Canuck et, après avoir partagé une semaine de repas avec un enfant, partager cela sur les réseaux sociaux en utilisant le hashtag #ASK1TOASK1.

ShareTheMeal, l’application du PAM, a gagné de nombreuses récompenses pour avoir impliqué la nouvelle génération dans la lutte contre la faim. Plus de 850 000 personnes ont téléchargé l’application et ont partagé plus de 14 millions de repas avec des milliers d’enfants vulnérables en Jordanie, en Syrie, au Malawi, au Cameroun, au Soudan du Sud et au Yémen.

La communauté ShareTheMeal a récemment participé à l’intervention du PAM au Soudan du Sud, partageant 1 million de repas avec des personnes ayant un besoin urgent d’assistance alimentaire.

Le PAM est la plus grande agence humanitaire de lutte contre la faim dans le monde, apportant une assistance alimentaire pour résoudre des situations d’urgence et travaillant avec les populations locales pour améliorer la nutrition et mettre en place un système alimentaire stable. Chaque année le PAM vient en aide à 80 millions de personnes dans 80 pays.

Grâce à l’application Android et iOS ShareTheMeal, les utilisateurs de smartphones peuvent partager leurs repas avec des personnes dans le besoin. ShareTheMeal est une initiative de l’accélérateur du Programme Alimentaire Mondial.

Téléchargez gratuitement l’application : http://ow.ly/IucL30cAl5h
Pour plus d’informations, rendez-vous ici : https://sharethemeal.org/canuck.html

Suivez-nous sur Twitter @wfp_Canada et @ShareTheMealorg

Culture

SABRE Announces $15,000 Safe In Smart Scholarship Sweepstakes

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SABRE, the number one brand of pepper spray trusted by police and consumers worldwide, is holding a scholarship Sweepstakes that will award one winner with $15,000 in scholarship funds.

The Safe Is Smart Scholarship Sweepstakes is set to run from July 1st to September 1st—just in time for the back to school season.

Recent campus safety statistics show and increased danger for students—particularly females—with up to 1 in 5 college women encountering sexual assault and nearly 10,000 students each year enduring aggravated assaults and robberies during their time in college. SABRE is working to enhance awareness of the safety steps students need to take when they get to campus. However, they also want to encourage students with the chance at winning a scholarship to apply to their studies.

“Our decision to award a scholarship was twofold,” explains SABRE CEO David Nance. “We wanted to give back to our community by helping someone with their college dream, while also teaching students and their parents about campus safety.

SABRE has spent more than forty years in the personal safety market and partnered with elite law enforcement professionals to further their understanding of self-defense tactics.

“Our goal is to help educate as many students as possible about the importance of personal safety, and by doing so, we are sharing important tips, as well as information about our safety products that can help students escape to safety should it arise,” said Nance.

SABRE is encouraging students to follow these safety tips both on and off campus.

·         Before unpacking their boxes, students should check out what free safe ride or walking services are offered by the campus.

·         Students should take a safety seminar or attend a self-defense class. Many colleges offer them free or for credit, and the techniques and strategies can be lifesaving.

·         For students moving from dorms to apartments, a personal alarm provides portable security. SABRE offers many compact options as well as a Dorm/Apartment Kit for keeping personal belongings safe.

·         Prepare themselves with pepper sprays and gels—one of the most effective ways to deter or distract an attacker, and permitted on most campuses. SABRE has the most potent and reliable options on the market.

·         Stick together—there is safety in numbers, so stay close to friends when going out or coming home late from parties.

“For parents, this time in their family’s lives are exciting—but also stressful as they are seeing their children go off on their own, often for the very first time,” said Nance. “We’re hoping to give them peace of mind by teaching their kids how to stay safe both on and off campus.”

The Safe Is Smart Scholarship Sweepstakes is open to all incoming freshmen and students enrolled in a secondary education institution.

To enter, go to: www.safeissmart.com/scholarship. Entrants will watch a video about campus protection and the latest in personal safety, before being able to register and submit their information.

For the Silo, Nicki Thomas.

Supplemental-

SABRE, the no. 1 pepper spray trusted by police and consumers worldwide, is family owned and operated with four decades of experience and is the leading brand in personal safety. The company’s law enforcement grade pepper sprays provide consumers with the same superior quality chosen exclusively by the New York Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and law enforcement agencies worldwide. SABRE has trained 3,500 officers around the globe on the use of force and how to use pepper spray. SABRE also has a line of consumer personal alarms and home security systems, and is dedicated to educating its customers. SABRE’s Personal Safety Academy is available through certified instructors around the world to help teach personal safety skills to SABRE users.

Featured image- lanthorn.com

Vintage

Largest And Most Trusted Digital Marketplace For Shipping Estate Sales

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We’re  EBTH-  Everything But The House- the largest and most trusted digital marketplace for shipping estate sales, but we started small, in front yards and tag sales. Our founders,-Brian Graves and Jacquie Denny, met while working in the Cincinnati auction and antiques world. While they loved uncovering the potential of pieces waiting inside their clients’ homes, they couldn’t help feeling like the traditional estate sale formats made it difficult for families to earn fair market value for their belongings. Not to mention the fact that design lovers and deal-hunters were limited to shopping for home furnishings and decor in their areas alone.

EBTH founders, Brian and Jacquie.

They also realized they liked helping people and they liked working together and so naturally, EBTH was born, and its online auctions let fans from Ohio to Anchorage in on a well-kept secret: that there were thousands of one-of-a-kind treasures waiting in the America’s best homes and now, at their fingertips.

Eight years later, EVERYTHING BUT THE HOUSE  ( CEO Andy Nielsen , CBO Mandana Dayani  ) sells furniture, jewelry, art coins, cars, collectibles, and more in over 27 US cities and counting. We’re bigger, but no less committed to giving buyers access to incredible homes around the country, fueled by the sellers who inspire us every day. We feel lucky to be at the center of a community that celebrates the rare, historical, weird, and wonderful.

Supplemental- EBTH backgrounder via Fortune.com

 

Sci-Tech

WatchBox App By Govberg Curates And Helps Source Watches

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In 2016, consumers spent an estimated $14.3 USD billion on gifts for Father’s Day alone, not to mention billions more on gifts for other occasions like birthdays and winter holidays. Traditional “guy gifts” include things like power tools and sporting event tickets. However, if you’re looking for a quintessential men’s gift that’s truly timeless, then you may want to turn to the WatchBox by Govberg app for an assist with what to get for the deserving dudes in your life.

This apt app serves as a resource for locating the exact gift-able watch he’s sure to love. Or, if you also enjoy beautiful timepieces, then this app can help you discover what’s currently available in the marketplace. Whether for yourself or as a gift for another, WatchBox by Govberg is an elegant and streamlined way to curate collection-worthy watches—something the folks behind this app know a great deal about. Established a century ago, Govberg Jewelers is a premier purveyor of luxury timepieces, known for their unrivaled offerings that include limited-production models by leading watchmakers; an extensive pre-owned inventory; and decidedly service-minded industry experts.

The app offers several different features a true timepiece enthusiast will find useful. This includes access to up-to-date news from the watch world. This information is gathered in real-time from all over the globe, aggregating and delivering articles and video reviews from a myriad of popular blogs and magazines devoted to Swiss watches, including all of the industry’s leading brands.

Users can also discover the worth of different watches. Whether you want to sell a watch, buy a new or pre-owned model, make a trade, or are just curious about what a new or used (secondary market) watch you own is currently selling for, the WatchBox by Govberg app boasts pricing tools like a database packed with information on over 80,000 watch models. This includes a 12-month price history for each. With this foundational and in-depth knowledge base, you can intelligently buy, sell, and trade luxury timepieces and generally communicate with other users—or even Govberg’s own watch buying experts—right from the app.

Danny Govberg

The advent of this app’s secondary market watch pricing tools, in particular, is significant. According to Danny Govberg, CEO of Govberg Jewelers, “Prior to the WatchBox by Govberg app, dialogue about the value of pre-owned watches wasn’t addressed elsewhere in a consistent, transparent manner; nor was it designed to support and educate the consumer. While manufacturers establish MSRPs for primary (new) watches, there was no resource, no Kelley Blue Book or Zillow, for the pre-owned, or secondary, market watch category to help consumers feel at ease.  That changes with this app…For the first time in the watch category, Govberg is providing transparency into what pieces trade for on the secondary, or pre-owned, market.”

Quite fascinating is the proprietary algorithm the app uses to estimate and compute market value. Govberg explains, “It evaluates historical and active sales records spanning the secondary market–online sales platforms, auction sales and Govberg’s own data. The data represents final sales to end users, and is not an appraisal nor offer to buy, but rather an educated starting point to assess the secondary market value of a particular model. All pricing makes assumptions on the quality, service history and completeness of a timepiece with original box and paperwork. The data strength takes into account the number of data points captured, the variability of the prices seen on the secondary market, how current the data is and the quality of the source/vendor within the market.”


Impressively, this app will even store information and photos of your existing watch collection. This can be a useful tool to keep up with warranties, service history and to maintain a record for insurance purposes. Also of practical use, you can even schedule watch maintenance and repairs from within the app.

According to Govberg, “As more customers see watch ownership less about having a time-telling device and more as a hobby for collecting the world’s most intricate instruments, WatchBox by Govberg supports the growing watch enthusiast with instant access to valuable information so he can make the best decisions to begin, grow, trade or sell his collection.”

Relative to gift-giving, instead of spending hours upon hours hunting for an idea in general—or for a specific timepiece—that the recipient might like, you can simply turn to this easy-to-use tech. You’ll save time, money and the guesswork often involved in finding the perfect present for those “special someones.”

Govberg perhaps summarizes the usefulness of this technology best, noting, “Whether you want to keep up on the latest industry news and product releases, manage your watch collection for social sharing or insurance purposes, or buy, sell or trade a new or pre-owned watch, WatchBox by Govberg is the ultimate toolbox for today’s watch collector.”

The free WatchBox by Govberg app is available for download for iOS devices on the App Store and Android devices in the Play Store.

For The Silo, By Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor.

As the Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee Kern is an internationally-regarded consumer product trends expert and hospitality industry voice of authority–a travel, dining, leisure and lifestyle expert who spotlights noteworthy marketplace innovations, change makers, movers and shakers. She identifies and reports on exemplary travel destinations and experiences, extraordinary events and newsworthy products and services across all categories. Reach her online at www.TheLuxeList.com, on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/LuxeListEditor, on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TheLuxeList and on Instagram at www.Instagram.com/LuxeListReviews.


***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or sponsored at no cost to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***

Sources:


https://nrf.com/media/press-releases/fathers-day-spending-reach-record-high-143-billion

Featured image & all photos courtesy of  Govberg Watches.

Reviews

Poltergeist 1982 ★★★★★ Watched Again In 70MM In Hollywood

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Warning- mature themes and language use in this article. For the record, I think Poltergeist is every bit as much a Tobe Hooper joint as it is a Spielberg flick. Maybe he didn’t deal with the actors as much and maybe he wasn’t involved in the post-production process, but there’s enough here visually for me to point out similar types of shots and lighting and camera movements in stuff like LIFEFORCE — not to mention a particular kind of coked-up hysteria that occasionally rears its long-haired sweaty-toothed head in pretty much all his films.

Mainly, I want to bring up that scene where visiting paranormal investigator Marty looks at himself in the mirror and…well, you know (or don’t know, which is why I don’t want to spoil it). What really bugged me before that part was Marty raiding the kitchen for some late night eats at the Freeling house; he grabs a leftover chicken drumstick, and that I can understand. But then he pulls out a big raw steak from the fridge and puts a pan on the stove, which made me think What Fucking Balls On This Guy.

Steak has been, is, and always will be expensive. It’s one thing to jack some cheaper stuff from someone else’s fridge, but goddamn steak?! And then to put that steak on the kitchen counter without a paper towel, foil, plate, nothing underneath it! Just plop that raw bloody steak anywhere, chief.

(And not a single hand was washed.)

It’s inconsiderate, is what I’m saying. I bet Marty didn’t even put the steak back in the fridge after his freakout either, the fuck. He deserved what he got.

Poltergeist was released in the Summer of 1982 and was directed by Tobe Hooper, although rumors persist that some/much/all the directing was actually done by Stephen Spielberg. Many actors have been quoted as stating that Spielberg was behind the camera and directing the shots that they were in. For the Silo, E.F. Contentment.


Synopsis- spoiler alert.

They’re here.
Craig T. Nelson stars as Steve Freeling, the main protagonist, who lives with his wife, Diane, and their three children, Dana, Robbie, and Carol Anne, in Southern California where he sells houses for the company that built the neighborhood. It starts with just a few odd occurrences, such as broken dishes and furniture moving around by itself. However, a tree comes alive and takes Robbie through his bedroom window, and Carol Anne is abducted by ghosts. Realizing that something evil haunts his home, Steve calls in a team of parapsychologists led by Dr. Lesh to investigate, hoping to get Carol Anne back, so he can remove his family from the house before it’s too late.

Supplemental- Grauman’s Egyptian Theater Los Angeles, California.

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