петък, 30 септември 2011 г.

ND0908111

Title: Boston Officials Launch Anti-Sugary Drink Media Blitz
Description: The federally funded campaign is saturating Boston television, radio, web, print and billboard advertisements.
Page Content:

BOSTON ? City officials launched a major federally funded public awareness campaign this week that is urging Boston residents to reduce their consumption of sugary beverages, the Boston Globe reports.

The campaign comes a month before Mayor Thomas Menino?s executive order takes effect, which phases out the sale, advertising and promotion of sugar-sweetened beverages in all municipal buildings.

?We are in the midst of a health crisis in the city of Boston,? Menino said. ?Forty percent of the kids in Boston Public Schools are overweight or obese.?

The six-week, $1 million campaign is funded by federal taxpayer dollars and includes saturation of Boston TV, radio, web, print and billboard advertisements. It particularly targets black and Latino neighborhoods, where obesity rates are highest.

The ads are aimed at parents who do the bulk of household shopping and young adults. One ad carries a ?Don?t get smacked by fat? tagline and shows young adults drinking sugary drinks while a neon yellow glob of fat approaches.

?It?s unfortunate that the government is using taxpayer dollars this way, rather than focusing on ways to promote physical education and nutrition in schools.�Obesity has many causes, and at the end of the day, it?s about calories in and calories out.�Calories must be balanced with an appropriate amount of exercise,? NACS Director of Government Relations Carin Nersesian told NACS Daily.

Content Subject: Government Relations
Formatted Article Date: September 8, 2011

post now find out

ND0929115

Title: Oy Vey! Kosher Subways Bring Tsoris to Owners
Description: Despite launching to great fanfare five years ago, kosher Subway shops are no big gedillah, according to consumers.
Page Content:
LOS ANGELES ? When it launched in 2006, the Subway sandwich shop in a largely Jewish neighborhood of Los Angeles was met with great enthusiasm, the Wall Street Journal reports.
Trying to get a jumpstart on what they hoped signaled a popular trend in kosher eating, entrepreneurs teamed with the QSR chain to open more than a dozen kosher Subway restaurants across the country.
However, with kosher laws requiring more expensive ingredients (and hence higher prices), and with the outlets therefore unable to participate in national promotions (?Five-Dollar Footlong? was replaced by an $8 and under deal? in Los Angeles), sales have suffered, and of the 15 kosher Subways that opened in the past five years, only five remain.
The kosher restaurant franchisees face a number of challenges, with more expensive meat, a dearth of suppliers, and reduced operating hours (all are closed from sundown Friday until sundown Saturday in observance of the Sabbath).
And when it comes to attracting customers, the higher prices that the Kosher outlets charge pose challenges as they try to compete against nearby kosher eateries.
However, not all of the kosher franchisees have struggled. Maurice Lichy, owner of a kosher Subway in North Miami Beach, said his store has been profitable, even during the economic fallout.
"I can't complain," he said, "We have a captive audience."
?
Content Subject: Foodservice
Formatted Article Date: September 29, 2011

articles roofcargo

Watson beaten in Shrewsbury final

Heather Watson loses 6-0 6-3 to Germany's Mona Barthel in the final of the Aegon GB Pro-Series event in Shrewsbury.

toys buy

NASA Hurricane Updates on Facebook



Check NASA's Hurricane on Facebook provides daily looks at storms in the tropics and it's updated on Weekends during storms

post now find out

NASA Hurricane Updates on Twitter



Check NASA's Hurricane Twitter feed for a daily behind the scenes look at storms in the tropics.

sell cool stuff

ND0930113

Title: Lucky Irving Oil Customer Wins Free Gas for a Year
Description: The Irving Rewards program offered customers gas savings and chance to win free gas for a year.
Page Content:
PORTSMOUTH, NH ? Walter Kalil of Newburyport has won free gas for a year thanks to Irving Oil. Kalil is one of six New England residents who will receive $2,100 worth of Irving gas cards for participating in the Irving Rewards gas savings program.
More than 80,000 customers registered their Irving Rewards cards online since the program began June 1. Kalil, who owns Kalil Lobsters, a Newburyport wholesale lobster business, was one of nearly 61,000 who entered to win free gas for a year or one of 100 Irving gift cards for $100.
?I shop at Irving quite often and the Rewards program has been extremely helpful,? said Walter Kalil. I?ve never won anything in my life and had no idea that I would win free gas for a year. I?ll certainly put this award to good use!?
?We are so pleased that Walter has saved on gas through Irving Rewards and will save even more for an entire year,? said Harry Hadiaris, general manager of Irving Oil. ?Now that the program has been extended through December, we encourage families to continue to fuel up and save.?
Irving also deployed ?Rewards Street Teams? throughout New England this summer, rewarding lucky customers at select locations with Irving tote bags that were randomly filled with gift cards ranging from $20 to $100. In total Irving distributed $6,000 in gift cards.
Due to the success of Irving Rewards, the program was extended until December 31, 2011. Customers can keep swiping their cards and saving on gas through the month of December. All rewards are redeemable by January 31, 2012.
Irving Rewards allows consumers to save on gas at more than 300 participating Irving locations in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island. Every $200 in fuel purchases earns 10 cents off per gallon at the next fill-up. In Massachusetts, customers can save at 34 participating Irving locations.
?
Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 30, 2011

post now find out

NASA Names CASIS To Manage Space Station National Lab Research

NASA has finalized a cooperative agreement with the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) to manage the portion of the International Space Station that operates as a U.S. national laboratory.

cool stuff you want to learn

Searle wants 20 GB golds at 2012

Veteran Olympian Greg Searle believes Great Britain should set their sights on winning 20 Olympic gold medals at London 2012.

read and know nasa

ND0927115

Title: California Tobacco Sales to Minors at All-Time Low
Description: Convenience stores and gas stations are among the retail outlets that have the lowest percentage of illegal sales to minors.
Page Content:

SACRAMENTO, CA ? According to California health officials, illegal tobacco sales to minors in the state is at an all-time low, though certain stores are breaking the law at higher rates, Mercury News reports.

The 2011 Youth Tobacco Purchase Survey revealed only 5.6 percent of retail outlets sold tobacco to minors, the lowest rate in the 16-year history of the survey (37 percent of teens were able to purchase tobacco when the survey began in 1995).

Convenience stores, supermarkets, drug stores, liquor stores, gas stations and tobacco shops have realized the sharpest declines. The survey noted non-traditional tobacco retailers, such as doughnut stores, produce markets and delis, sell tobacco to minors in much higher numbers. For instance, delis showed rates of 11.6 percent, while gift stores were at 8.3 percent.

"It is important to protect our youth from using tobacco which is deadly and addictive," said Dr. Ron Chapman, director of the California Department of Public Health. "We are proud that fewer retailers are selling cigarettes to minors, but we have more work to do to guarantee that all kids in California grow up tobacco-free."

Content Subject: Marketing/Merchandising
Formatted Article Date: September 27, 2011

cool stuff you want to learn

I feared Europa upset - Redknapp

Harry Redknapp is a relieved man as his Tottenham team recover from a surprise 1-0 deficit to beat Shamrock Rovers 3-1 in the Europa League.

education get links

ND0914116

Title: Beverages Tap Mobile Technology
Description: More beverage companies are using intelligent packaging to encourage consumer interaction.
Page Content:

CLEVELAND ? Beverage manufacturers are looking to intelligent packaging to reach more consumers, Beverage Industry reports. Overall, intelligent packaging demand predicted to rise close to 20 percent each year to reach $370 million by 2015, according to the ?Active & Intelligent Packaging? study by The Freedonia Group Inc. Quick-response (QR) and other 2D barcodes will drive the increased interest.

Some beverage makers are finding that adding scannable barcodes and QR codes can boost interest in their drinks. For example, Sacre Bleu Wine found that QR scanning of its wines jump 1,200 percent from July to December 2010. The winery puts QR codes on the front label with text asking consumers to scan the code with a barcode reader or mobile app. The QR code links consumers with a custom mobile landing site that provides brand data, food and wine pairings and promotional information.

?[Two-dimensional barcodes are used] to attract interest in the product when people are shopping and also to provide information because on a lot of products, the space is limited,? said Esther Palevsky, industry analyst at The Freedonia Group.

More young adults scan the 2D barcodes, which tend to be aimed at that age group. Beverages using the technology include beer, energy drinks, soda and wine.

Hydrive Energy put QR codes on Decafe and Extra Energy beverages this summer. Consumers scanning the codes went to a mobile site filled with contests, fitness trivia, free stuff and product info. ?By offering different content with each scan, we replicated the ?under-the-cap? promotional experience often used in traditional soft drink marketing but in a digital way,? said Charly-Ann Oddo, director of marketing and digital media at Hydrive Energy. ?This difference encourages our consumers to have a more interactive and intimate relationship with our product.?

Content Subject: Marketing/Merchandising, Technology
Formatted Article Date: September 14, 2011

read and know nasa

ND0913114

Title: PDI Announces Winners of Doing Business Electronically Awards
Description: The awards recognize convenience retailers and wholesale petroleum marketers who have shown innovation in using PDI/Enterprise.
Page Content:

SAN ANTONIO ? PDI announced this week the winners of its first Doing Business Electronically customer awards, recognizing several convenience retailers and wholesale petroleum marketers who have demonstrated innovation and creativity with the integration of PDI/Enterprise into their operations.

First place winners included Mid Pac Petroleum for automation, Cumberland Farms for forms usage, and Maverik for SSRS report creation. Wilson Fuel was nominated in two categories ? integration and environmental stewardship.

PDI selected 16 companies whose creative practices saved time and money while reducing paper processes.

?The goal of PDI/Enterprise is to help companies reduce their workload and increase productivity ? ? said Austin Skaggs, community manager for PDI. ?[T]hese awards are a testament to their efforts ? From automated imports to integration with third-party products, PDI customers are using the tools available through PDI/Enterprise to think outside the box and streamline their business procedures in really impressive ways.?

PDI presented the awards at its annual customer training conference, held in San Antonio, earlier this week.

Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 13, 2011

toys buy

ND0914115

Title: 97 Georgia Cities, Counties Set November Sunday Sales Referendums
Description: In April, the governor signed a law allowing municipalities to vote on whether to let retailers sell alcohol on Sundays.
Page Content:

SMYRNA, Ga. ? Come November, voters nearly 100 cities and counties in Georgia will get to decide whether or not merchants can sell alcohol on Sundays. The Georgia Food Industry Association (GFIA) revealed that 97 cities and counties throughout Georgia are set to hold Sunday sales referendums during the November 8 general election. These areas represent approximately 2.5 million Georgians living in all parts of the state.

?We would like to commend the city and county leaders throughout the state who have decided to give the people the right to choose what is best for their communities,? said GFIA President Kathy Kuzava, in a press release. ?This effort has always been about our industry?s desire to serve our customers. If the referendums are successful our customers are ones who will benefit.?

In April, Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal signed Sen. John Bulloch?sSenate Bill 10 into law. The new law gives the decision on whether or not to allow Sunday retail alcohol sales to individual cities and counties. Visit gfia.org for a complete list of cities and counties with Sunday sales referendums.

Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 14, 2011

toys buy

Olympic sport this week

After GB's triathlon golds who will this week's stars be?

you want to learn rino

Medvedev: I cede presidency bid to Putin

President Dmitry Medvedev said Friday he had ceded his presidency bid to the country's powerful Prime Minister Vladimir Putin because the latter is a more popular politician in Russia, who has higher chances to be elected.

really nice stories read and know

Shelvey joins Blackpool on loan

Blackpool complete the loan signing of Jonjo Shelvey from Liverpool.

find out test

Wellington defiant after accident

Triathlete Chrissie Wellington is adamant she will be fit to compete for her fourth Ironman world title, despite a fall from her bike in training.

zone article articles

Jersey's Golder joins GB squad

Jersey bobsleigh driver Will Golder is selected for the Great Britain squad.

really nice stories read and know

ND0908112

Title: ALDI Aligns Nutrition Messages With USDA
Description: ALDI's new campaign will reach more than 20 million customers each month with affordable produce prices.
Page Content:

BATAVIA, Ill. ?ALDI announced yesterday a new partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to encourage healthy eating via the department?s revamped food pyramid, MyPlate.

?This initiative coincides with the ALDI mission to provide the highest quality products at the lowest possible prices to our customers,? said Chuck Youngstrom, co-president, ALDI. ?We want to play our part to help Americans fill half their plate with fruits and vegetables.?

The ALDI MyPlate campaign will reach more than 20 million customers each month by offering produce prices that are significantly lower than at traditional grocery retailers. In addition, each week, ALDI offers produce "Picks of the Week" that provide even greater savings on featured fruits and vegetables. This information will be promoted through weekly ALDI flyers and in store signage. The ALDI website will include recipes and nutrition tips created by a registered dietitian.

Recently, ALDI was recognized as the nation's low price grocery leader, according to a consumer survey conducted by Market Force Information Inc. When asked to rank the top 10 grocers offering low prices, consumers ranked ALDI number one, ahead of competitors such as Walmart, Costco, Kroger, Meijer and Safeway.

Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 8, 2011

post now find out

Baseball on the BBC

How to listen to Major League Baseball commentary on BBC 5 live sports extra.

test find and rely

ND0915116

Title: U.S. Beer Consumption Continues to Decline
Description: Overall the total beer industry is down, while craft brews and imports continue resonating with consumers.
Page Content:

NORWALK, CT ? According to the Beverage Information Group?s (BIG) 2011 Beer Handbook, the U.S. beer industry suffered its fourth-consecutive annual sales decline, losing 1.9% to total 2.8 billion cases.

BIG attributed the loss to continued declines in the light beer segment, which weighed heavily on the final numbers.

On the positive side, craft beers registered strong gains, while imports were up slightly by 0.9%, though still 11.1% lower than pre-recessionary levels

?Consumers are gravitating toward premium products with exciting and new flavors ? something the craft segment has done well in providing,? said Eric Schmidt, BIG?s manager of information services.

The handbook predicts a dim short-term future for the beer industry, with rising fuel costs and high unemployment rates among its core consumers two primary factors in its decline. However, BIG expects the super premium, craft/specialty and flavored malt beverage segments to show positive growth in the next five years, while premium, light, popular, ice and the malt liquor segments are likely to decline.

Content Subject: Research
Formatted Article Date: September 15, 2011

read and know nasa

ND0930112

Title: Ontario Government Muzzles Convenience Stores From Informing Public About Contraband Tobacco
Description: The government tells retailers that they cannot display a poster featuring a closed convenience store within public view.
Page Content:
LONDON, Ontario ? London convenience stores have been told by provincial authorities they can?t display posters in their stores aimed at educating the public about the negative effect contraband cigarettes have on businesses and the community.�Authorities citing Smoke Free Ontario Act regulations that prohibit tobacco promotions inside stores have ordered retailers to remove all contraband tobacco educational posters from local convenience stores.
?The Smoke Free Ontario Act is an important public health law that is strongly supported by Ontarians.�As retailers, we work diligently to comply with its rules every day,? said Dave Bryans, president of the Ontario Convenience Stores Association.�?But regulations meant to stop tobacco promotion have muzzled retailers and are preventing them from educating their community about the serious problem of contraband tobacco.�This isn?t right and isn?t fair.�No government law should stop small businesses from being able to speak freely about an issue ? especially during an election.?
The posters depicted a number of scenes indicative of the contraband tobacco epidemic: a closed convenience store; a school setting where students frequently have contraband tobacco; vermin, as RCMP lab tests have shown evidence of feces in contraband cigarettes; and, drug syringes as police indicate many contraband tobacco smugglers also trade in drugs.�Convenience stores are complying with the government order to remove the posters.
?I?ve spoken to over 2,000 convenience store retailers over the past two years and many have all but given up hope the Ontario government will fix the problem,? said Angie Kim, retailer liaison for the Ontario Convenience Stores Association. ?For these stores, the contraband issue is not about profits, it?s about the ability of these families to pay the mortgage and save enough to send their kids to university.?
Illegal cigarettes remain a huge problem in Ontario with smugglers earning millions in profits, which they often use to finance other, more serious criminal activities.�Contraband smugglers freely sell these cigarettes for pocket-change, often to kids, without respecting any of the other laws and regulations under which legal retailers operate.
Convenience store retailers have been outspoken on the issue of contraband tobacco since 2005. Over the past several years, over 1,000 convenience stores have gone out of business, in large part due to the effects of the illegal contraband market on these law-abiding retailers.
?
Content Subject: International
Formatted Article Date: September 30, 2011

education get links

ND0907113

Title: Seattle 7-Eleven Tests Amazon.com Delivery System
Description: The system uses a locker-style storage unit combined with smartphone technology.
Page Content:

SEATTLE ? Amazon.com is in the early stages of testing a delivery system to 7-Eleven stores, the Seattle Examiner reports.

The system combines smartphone technology with the convenience of a local delivery site. Basically, the customer purchases from Amazon.com and selects a 7-Eleven store for the delivery location. When the package arrives at its destination, the customer receives an email that contains a bar code.

At the 7-Eleven pick-up point, the customer scans the bar code via his smartphone at the locker, which looks like an ATM-lockbox hybrid. After scanning the bar code, the locker will print out a receipt with a PIN that the customer will use to access his package.

What?s not clear at this point is whether having a package delivered to a 7-Eleven will cost more than a residential or business address delivery. It?s also not been revealed whether customers without smartphones can use the system.

The testing store has the locker storage box in a back room, but a permanent place for the box has yet to be determined. If the delivery system proves doable, it might be rolled out in 7-Eleven locations as early as next summer.

Content Subject: Technology
Formatted Article Date: September 7, 2011

buy get new

Hilary (East Pacific Ocean)



NASA's satellite that measures rainfall from its orbit in space as noticed that Tropical Storm Hilary's rainfall intensity has dropped off since Sept. 28

articles roofcargo

четвъртък, 29 септември 2011 г.

Tottenham survive Shamrock Rovers scare

Tottenham fight back from 1-0 down to run out comfortable winners against Shamrock Rovers in the Europa League.

sell cool stuff

ND0929113

Title: Gender Equity ?A Business Imperative?: Walmart Executive Says
Description: Walmart?s Cathy Smith tells NEW Leadership Summit audience to move beyond the traditional mentoring process and instead begin sponsoring one another.
Page Content:
ORLANDO, FL ? Women seeking to support gender diversity at executive levels should begin sponsoring one another, moving beyond the traditional mentoring process, said Walmart International CFO Cathy Smith at the recent Network of Executive Women Leadership Summit.
Smith said men are promoted based on potential because they do a better job of sponsoring one another, as opposed to women, who act as mentors or ?advice givers? and are thus promoted based on their performance.
?We have a great pipeline of women leaders up to a point, but then women tend to check out," Smith said in reference to the consumer products and retail industry. "But women now in senior leadership positions are doing a better job of paying it forward.?
Smith said she has been frustrated at the slow progress women have made in the industry, noting that they occupy only 11 percent of the top leadership positions in business.
?We've made no progress in a decade and that is just stunning to me," Smith said, before sounding an optimistic tone.
"Gender equity is a business imperative and because there is such a war for talent it will happen."
?
Content Subject: Management/Leadership/CEO
Formatted Article Date: September 29, 2011

cool stuff you want to learn

NFL franchise 'realistic' in UK

NFL UK chief Alistair Kirkwood says the prospect of a British NFL franchise remains a realistic possibility.

buy get new

ND0913112

Title: Ritzy Suds
Description: Some of the world?s most expensive beers shed light on how deep consumers are willing to go into their pockets for high-priced brews.
Page Content:

NEW YORK ? ?Dare to dream,? Fox News says, in reference to a handful of beers that it found whose prices would make a hedge fund manager or CEO blush. These over-the-top beers are no doubt expensive splurges targeting a select demographic:

  • Sam Adams Utopias ? Whether it?s the process of cask aging and blending from batches that spend time in Portuguese muscatel finishing casks and Cognac and brandy barrels, one thing is certain about Sam Adams Utopias: its 27 percent ABV ensures a merry old time for the consumer. ?At [this] level, beer comes across more like a liqueur and this one is no exception,? Fox writes, ?with a rich maple syrup undertone and a boozy warmth.? And at $150 or more per bottle, ?it?s definitely an expensive taste to cultivate.?
  • Carlsberg Vintage 3 ? Brewed under the eye of Jacobsen Brewery brewmaster Morten Ibsen, Carlsberg Vintage 3 is a limited edition beer that?s aged in French C�te d?Or oak barrels. The taste is that of a dessert wine rather than a typical beer, and the $348 per bottle beer ?tastes as wonderful as the angels sing,? Ibsen said.
  • Brewdog The End of History ? Brewdog the End of History has it all for the beer connoisseur. Start with 55 ABV (110 proof) beer that?s designed to be sipped and nurtured ? Nurture said beer while it?s jammed inside a squirrel carcass (!) ? Pay $800 for the privilege of being one of the 12 people to own this very limited edition beer ? And enjoy its complex flavor of juniper fused with nettles with a hint of citrus (what about squirrel?).
  • Antarctic Nail Ale ? Brewed as a tribute to the brewmaster?s brother, an eco-crusader Sea Shepherd crew member (featured on the Animal Planet show ?Whale Wars?), Antarctic Nail Ale was conceived and developed by Australian John Smallwood, incorporating ice from the Antarctic as a base for its limited edition run. Auctioned off with a starting price of $800 per bottle, the beer is truly one that?s ?for the whales,? though the worthwhile cause and backstory has found eager takers for the ale.
Content Subject: Marketing/Merchandising
Formatted Article Date: September 13, 2011

articlez zone article

GB qualify slalom boats for 2012

Britain's slalom canoeists qualify men's C2 and women's K1 boats for next year's Olympics at the 2011 World Championships in Slovakia, but miss out on medals in Saturday's finals.

cool stuff you want to learn

ND0914114

Title: Thorntons Unveils Mobile Phone App
Description: The free application is available now.
Page Content:

LOUISVILLE, Ky. ? Thorntons has announced the launch of their brand-new proprietary free mobile phone app available for iPhone, Android and Blackberry users. The mobile phone app, powered by OpenStore by GasBuddy, is free for all Thorntons customers at thorntons1.com/MobileApps.aspx.

?Thorntons consumers are extremely tech-savvy and more mobile than ever,? said Matt Thornton, president/CEO of Thorntons Inc., in a press release. ?The creation of this app will enable them to have Thorntons with them 24/7. Along with the multitude of features our app offers, Thorntons customers will stay fully informed of our daily and weekly promotions, gas price alerts, and be able to manage their FREEquency Rewards card, to name just a few of the options.?

Once the app has been downloaded, customers will be able to stay on top of everything going on with their neighborhood store, as well as at the more than 160 Thorntons located throughout the Midwest. The app displays locations, in-store promotions, food menus and much more while customers can send feedback, review job postings, and receive time-sensitive electronic mobile coupons.

Specific app features include the Thorntons Mobile App GPS, which will help users to find the closest Thorntons stores and get directions from their current location. Find nearby stores based-on city and state, or zip code. The Store Features and Services will guide users to a station with a particular fuel type needed, such as diesel, E85 or kerosene, or locate the nearest 24-hour Thorntons store.

Gas Price Alerts send users instant gas price alerts before prices rise at any Thorntons location via push notifications. Promotions Alerts provide instant alerts about special promotions and deals.

Content Subject: Technology
Formatted Article Date: September 14, 2011

articlez zone article

ND0914114

Title: Thorntons Unveils Mobile Phone App
Description: The free application is available now.
Page Content:

LOUISVILLE, Ky. ? Thorntons has announced the launch of their brand-new proprietary free mobile phone app available for iPhone, Android and Blackberry users. The mobile phone app, powered by OpenStore by GasBuddy, is free for all Thorntons customers at thorntons1.com/MobileApps.aspx.

?Thorntons consumers are extremely tech-savvy and more mobile than ever,? said Matt Thornton, president/CEO of Thorntons Inc., in a press release. ?The creation of this app will enable them to have Thorntons with them 24/7. Along with the multitude of features our app offers, Thorntons customers will stay fully informed of our daily and weekly promotions, gas price alerts, and be able to manage their FREEquency Rewards card, to name just a few of the options.?

Once the app has been downloaded, customers will be able to stay on top of everything going on with their neighborhood store, as well as at the more than 160 Thorntons located throughout the Midwest. The app displays locations, in-store promotions, food menus and much more while customers can send feedback, review job postings, and receive time-sensitive electronic mobile coupons.

Specific app features include the Thorntons Mobile App GPS, which will help users to find the closest Thorntons stores and get directions from their current location. Find nearby stores based-on city and state, or zip code. The Store Features and Services will guide users to a station with a particular fuel type needed, such as diesel, E85 or kerosene, or locate the nearest 24-hour Thorntons store.

Gas Price Alerts send users instant gas price alerts before prices rise at any Thorntons location via push notifications. Promotions Alerts provide instant alerts about special promotions and deals.

Content Subject: Technology
Formatted Article Date: September 14, 2011

get links sell

Walkden hoping heartbreak is over

After a difficult year GB Taekwondo fighter Bianca Walkden is hoping for better fortune at this weekend's British Open in Manchester.

find and rely really nice stories

Wozniacki suffers Kanepi defeat

Caroline Wozniacki slipped to a three-set defeat to unseeded Estonian Kaia Kanepi as she was knocked out of the Pan Pacific Open in the third round.

hippo articlez

Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Company

Paul C. Harary, 46, of Boca Raton, Fla., has pled guilty to a federal charge of wire fraud for orchestrating a scheme to defraud the chief executive officer of a publicly traded company of $26,000.

roofcargo games

School's Nazi-themed parade sparks outrage

A Jewish human rights organization on Monday called for Thailand's Christian leaders to condemn a parade at the Sacred Heart School in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in which participating students wearing Nazi uniforms performed "Sieg Heil" salutes.

nasa education

NASA Offers Shuttle Tiles And Space Food To Schools And Universities

NASA is offering space shuttle heat shield tiles and dehydrated astronaut food to eligible schools and universities.

get links sell

ND0928111

Title: Ask Tom Brokaw
Description: NACS Show Closing Session speaker will take your questions following his speech.
Page Content:

ALEXANDRIA, Va. ? Legendary newsman Tom Brokaw has arguably interviewed more influential and world leaders than anyone in history. But at the NACS Show in Chicago, the tables will be turned, and he will be the one answering questions from attendees.

Brokaw?s Oct. 4 presentation, ?Voices of a Generation,? will provide context for some of today?s historical events. As part of his presentation, Brokaw will participate in a Q&A session moderated by incoming NACS chairman Tom Robinson. NACS Show attendees are encouraged to submit questions for this part of the session.

Brokaw is one of the most trusted and respected figures in broadcast journalism, as an anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News, a best-selling author of books such as The Greatest Generation and as a special correspondent for NBC News providing expertise and insight into today?s current events. In addition to examining world events of the past five decades ? he began his journalism career in 1962, the year after NACS was founded ? Brokaw will provide in-depth analysis of today?s important economic, political and social issues in the headlines, as well as the people behind them.�

?It is fitting that as NACS celebrates its rich history and accomplishments during its 50th anniversary that we will hear insights from one of the preeminent chroniclers of our time,? said NACS Convention Chairman Steve Loehr, vice president of operations support at La Crosse, Wis.-based Kwik Trip Inc.

Click here to submit your question to Tom Brokaw.

There is still time to register for the NACS Show, which will take place Oct. 1 to 4 in Chicago. Click here for details.

Content Subject: NACS
Formatted Article Date: September 28, 2011

article online post now

Stoke v Besiktas

Preview followed by live coverage of Thursday's game between Stoke and Besiktas in the Europa League.

sell cool stuff

British pair beaten in Japan Open

Imogen Bankier and Chris Adcock reach the last 16 of the Japan Open in Tokyo.

you want to learn rino

ND0909113

Title: Los Angeles Considers Paper, Plastic Bag Ban
Description: Several California counties and cities already have bans on plastic bags.
Page Content:

LOS ANGELES ? A Los Angeles councilman is proposing the city ban both single-use paper and plastic bags at supermarkets, the Los Angeles Times reports. Several California counties and cities already have bans on plastic bags, including Long Beach, which enacted its ban on August 1. However, most bans do let retailers sell paper bags.

?With paper bags, you're still generating litter,? said Councilman Paul Koretz, who is pushing for the ban. ?We're taking the next step.?

Environmental groups have been pushing for Los Angeles to pass such a ban ever since San Francisco did in 2007. Heal the Bay and other groups hope the city will approve the ban, and that the momentum would convince lawmakers in Sacramento to pass a statewide ban.

The Los Angeles ban would let stores give away or sell reusable bags only. Stores not complying would face a fine. Only the small, plastic bags used for raw vegetables and meat would be permitted.

Koretz believes that stores will support the bill. ?It will save them money,? he said. ?It will help them make money in the long run.?

The California Grocers Association was in favor of a statewide ban, and said they would work with Los Angeles if its proposal passes. The Energy and Environmental Committee on the Los Angeles City Council will determine whether the ban will move forward.

Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 9, 2011

post now find out

Lampard wants more Chelsea starts

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard says he hopes to regain a regular starting place in the Blues' side after scoring in the 1-1 draw with Valencia.

find out test

GB to host Slovakia in Davis Cup

Great Britain will host Slovakia as Leon Smith's side return to Davis Cup's Europe/Africa Zone Group I.

find out test

Tennis on the BBC

BBC radio & online coverage details for the US Open

find out test

ND091411

Title: NACS Urges Improvements to EPA Stage II Rule
Description: Official comments push for more effective, timely and complete elimination of requirements for Stage II vapor recovery at retail fuel facilities.
Page Content:

WASHINGTON ? NACS and a host of other industry organizations filed joint comments with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) urging regulations that would promptly and completely remove requirements for Stage II vapor recovery at retail fuel facilities. In July, the agency proposed rules that would allow for elimination of the requirements after June 30, 2013, once on-board vehicle vapor refueling (ORVR) systems are found to be in widespread use in the nation.�

NACS?s comments focused on provisions in the rule that could limit the elimination of Stage II requirements in certain areas and delay their elimination in others.

First, the rule requires states to revise their air quality implementation plans (SIPs) to remove their Stage II requirements once ORVR is in widespread use. The process to revise SIPs is burdensome and costly, especially at a time when states are struggling financially. NACS is concerned that such a process could impede the prompt elimination of Stage II requirements and therefore urged EPA to make removal of Stage II requirements self-enacting upon the ORVR widespread use date of June 30, 2013. Such an action would spare the states the burden of revising their SIPs and provide retailers with immediate resolution of the Stage II requirements.

Second, NACS is concerned that retailers who may seek to construct new sites between now and June 30, 2013, will be required to invest in costly Stage II systems that will be rendered obsolete in less than two years. NACS asked EPA to provide an exemption to new construction facilities to avoid this unnecessary expense.

Finally, NACS expressed concern that EPA regulations affecting the ozone transport region (OTR), which stretches from Virginia to Maine, may result in those states not being able to eliminate Stage II requirements even after ORVR is in widespread use. A prior interpretation by the agency would not allow states to use ORVR as a substitute for Stage II.�NACS urged EPA to reconsider that interpretation and allow these states, which represents a significant percentage of the retail facilities subject to Stage II requirements, to eliminate Stage II provisions. In addition to the costs associated with this requirement, NACS noted that using Stage II systems with vehicles equipped with ORVR may in fact reduce the overall emissions benefits that could be achieved using either system alone.

EPA will review the comments submitted by NACS and all other stakeholders. A final rule is expected later this year or in early 2012.

Content Subject: Government Relations
Formatted Article Date: September 14, 2011

article online post now

ND0929117

Title: Quiznos Expands Into Meijer Locations
Description: The QSR continues its non-traditional retail channel growth into the Great Lakes area.
Page Content:
DENVER ? Quiznos, a quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain and pioneer of the toasted sandwich, announced a relationship with Meijer to open inside the retailer?s Great Lakes, Michigan, locations. The relationship is the most recent in a series of successful partnerships and store openings in Quiznos? non-traditional development strategy.�
The new Quiznos restaurant will be located in the Meijer store on Jackson Road in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with a plan to look at further expansion to more Meijer supercenters.
The Quiznos/Meijer supercenter location(s) will feature a menu tailored for the grocery store customer and retailer, including Quiznos? signature toasty favorites and hot breakfast items.
The Meijer partnership is part of Quiznos? continued commitment to partner with strong, regional retail operators for success in the non-traditional retail channel. Through its development initiative, Quiznos has opened more than 200 convenience store and non-traditional locations in 2011 and established partnerships with convenience industry leaders, including Hess, MAPCO, Champlain Farms and others.
?
Content Subject: Foodservice
Formatted Article Date: September 29, 2011

really good amazing stories

ND0912113

Title: Boston Proposes Restrictions on E-Cigs
Description: Retailers would be required to apply for a permit through the commission?s Tobacco Control office to sell e-cigarettes.
Page Content:

BOSTON ? Last week the Boston Public Health Commission unanimously approved proposed rules that would regulate electronic cigarettes as a cigarette product.

The Boston Globe reports that the commission?s proposal would require retailers to obtain a permit to sell e-cigarettes, as well as ban use of e-cigarettes in the workplace.

?We don?t know what people are inhaling with these e-cigarettes,? said Nikysha Harding, director of tobacco control for the commission. ?We see these as a gateway for youth to become addicted to nicotine.?

The commission also gave initial approval to doubling fines on retailers who sell tobacco products to those under 18, notes the newspaper, adding that proposed rules would ?prohibit the sale of low-cost, single cigars just slightly larger than cigarettes that have become an attractive option for price-conscious youth looking for alternatives to cigarettes.?

The commission is planning to vote on the proposed rules on November 10. Should the rules pass, they would take effective within 30 days. The single cigar restrictions would take effective 60 days later.

Retailers would also be required to apply for a permit through the commission?s Tobacco Control office to sell e-cigarettes, which would have to be placed behind the store counter, like tobacco products.

A public hearing on the proposed regulation is scheduled for 6:00 pm on October 4, in the Hayes Conference Room on the second floor of commission?s offices at 1010 Massachusetts Ave. Written comments are being accepted by the commission September 11 through October 10. They can be sent to the Boston Public Health Commission, Board Office, Attention: Jamie Martin, Board Secretary, 1010 Massachusetts Ave., 6th floor, Boston, MA 02118, or e-mailed to boardofhealth@bphc.org.

Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 12, 2011

games toys

ND0909116

Title: Methamphetamine Use Drops Sharply
Description: The restriction in ingredients used to make meth contributed to its decline. Also, the DEA has temporarily made selling synthetic drugs used to make ?bath salts? illegal.
Page Content:

ROCKVILLE, Md. ? Close to one in 10 Americans say they regularly use illegal drugs, including cocaine, hallucinogens, heroin, inhalants and prescription drugs used recreationally, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, USA Today reports.

The most common drug is marijuana, which has around 17.4 million regular users, or 6.9 percent of the U.S. population. That?s up from the 5.8 percent in 2007. The increase corresponds with the number of states ? now at 16 ? approving medical marijuana.

The good news is that use of methamphetamine use, which exploded around the country for the past 10 years, has plummeted. The number of past-month users dropped from 731,000 in 2006 to reach 353,000 last year.

Since 2001, when methamphetamine began to race around the country, states have restricted or banned ingredients used to make meth, such as the pseudoephedrine often used in over-the-counter cold medications, said Peter Delany, director of the Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

?We've seen better attention for law enforcement and policy changes. You can't get all the Sudafed you want anymore,? said Delany.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is cracking down on the so-called ?bath salts? synthetic drug. The agency now temporarily controls the sale of Mephedrone, MDPV and Methylone, which are used to make the salts, often sold at convenience stores under ?Ivory Wave? and ?Cloud Nine.? This means possessing or selling the chemical is illegal in the United States for at least a year while agencies study the drugs.

Currently, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, North Dakota and Pennsylvania already ban sales of ?bath salts.?

Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 9, 2011

read and know nasa

ND0909112

Title: Obama Plugs Highway Repairs
Description: Prior to his speech on employment last night, the president was touting the need for transportation funding.
Page Content:

WASHINGTON ? President Barack Obama pushed the importance of funding transportation repairs in the days before last night?s jobs speech in front of Congress, Stateline.org reports.

Obama has continually asked Congress to reauthorize a highway bill set to lapse at the month?s end that would keep federal funds heading to states. ?Allowing this bill to expire would be a disaster for our infrastructure and our economy,? said the president during a recent weekly radio talk. ?Right away, over 4,000 workers would be furloughed without pay. If it?s delayed for just 10 days, we will lose nearly $1 billion in highway funding that we can never get back.?

Mayors, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and labor unions are all clamoring for renewing the bill. The Obama administration revealed figures that showed job losses by state if the transportation bill ? along with the federal gasoline tax ? is not restored.

Rep. John Mica (R-FL), chairman of the House Transportation Committee, said a shutdown is not likely because he would support another short-term extension ? the eighth since the original bill first lapsed in 2009.

States are watching Congress to see if a bipartisan agreement on federal road funding can be reached. One House plan would spend only the money generated by the federal gas tax, while a Senate plan would keep current spending levels that would require funds from Congress in addition to the federal gas tax revenue.

NACS has historically opposed temporary suspension of the gasoline and diesel fuel excise taxes.�Previous proposals to suspend the tax were aimed at easing the economic pressure on consumers when legislators considered prices were too high. However, the artificial lowering of fuel prices during times when supply and demand conditions are forcing the market higher would only encourage additional consumption and exacerbate the market imbalance leading to higher prices.�NACS likewise opposes allowing authorization for the excise taxes to expire for similar reasons�? and does not expect an expiration of the tax would be permanent.�

In addition, NACS is adamantly opposed to any retroactive tax liability that may be imposed subsequent to a period of suspension of the excise taxes.�If the tax is allowed to expire it is possible that Congress, upon renewing the tax, will seek to collect retroactively taxes that should have been paid while the tax was in suspension. If public pressure forces retailers to sell tax-free fuel during the suspension, retailers will not have the funds required to pay retroactive excise taxes if demanded by the federal government.

Content Subject: Government Relations
Formatted Article Date: September 9, 2011

nasa education

сряда, 28 септември 2011 г.

NASA Names CASIS To Manage Space Station National Lab Research

NASA has finalized a cooperative agreement with the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) to manage the portion of the International Space Station that operates as a U.S. national laboratory.

toys buy

Lilleshall gymnasts' medal hopes

Britain's gymnasts leave Lilleshall for next week's World Championships with one eye on London 2012.

really good amazing stories

Is Djokovic season the best ever?

Tennis legends say Djokovic's fine run will not be matched

hippo articlez

NASA Offers Shuttle Tiles And Space Food To Schools And Universities

NASA is offering space shuttle heat shield tiles and dehydrated astronaut food to eligible schools and universities.

find and rely really nice stories

ND0916112

Title: Gas Rewards Cards Grow in Popularity
Description: The discount programs give customers ways to save at the pump.
Page Content:

DENVER ? The pain at the pump isn?t going away. According to AAA?s Fuel Gauge Report, U.S. drivers pay between 5 percent and 10 percent of their income on gasoline, A recent report estimates that in 2011, U.S. motorists will pay a record $491 billion on fuel.

To help reduce the pain of filling up, more retailers are offering gasoline discount programs, Fox Business reports. Gas incentive programs differ from credit card rewards programs in that the gas initiatives give customers relief at the pump by using a grocery rewards card or a retailer-branded credit, gift or prepaid card.

Usually, the gas programs are a partnership between a gasoline company and a retailer. Programs offered by supermarkets like Safeway, Kroger and King Soopers have grown in popularity lately. Customers earn cents-off per gallon by buying groceries and prescriptions at the store.

?You can either choose to use your rewards on a transaction or you can choose to save it for a larger gas purchase,? explained Teena Massingill, Safeway?s director of corporate public affairs. ?Points earned in the same store as the fuel location are able to be used immediately. If there is cross shopping from one store to another, it may take an hour or less for the points to reflect on the card.?

Shell has teamed up with both regional and national grocery chains, such as Winn-Dixie, Save Mart Supermarkets, Ralph?s and Kroger. ?Consumers who buy their groceries at these stores earn rewards that are redeemable at Shell,? said Jim Perkins, North American marketing alliance manager for Shell.

?Obviously in today's economic environment, consumers are looking for every way to stretch their dollar, and this is one of the best ways. Everybody needs food and everybody needs fuel, so to be rewarded for making purchases you would make every day makes consumers extremely happy,? said Perkins.

Content Subject: Petroleum Retailing
Formatted Article Date: September 16, 2011

education get links

ND0908112

Title: ALDI Aligns Nutrition Messages With USDA
Description: ALDI's new campaign will reach more than 20 million customers each month with affordable produce prices.
Page Content:

BATAVIA, Ill. ?ALDI announced yesterday a new partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to encourage healthy eating via the department?s revamped food pyramid, MyPlate.

?This initiative coincides with the ALDI mission to provide the highest quality products at the lowest possible prices to our customers,? said Chuck Youngstrom, co-president, ALDI. ?We want to play our part to help Americans fill half their plate with fruits and vegetables.?

The ALDI MyPlate campaign will reach more than 20 million customers each month by offering produce prices that are significantly lower than at traditional grocery retailers. In addition, each week, ALDI offers produce "Picks of the Week" that provide even greater savings on featured fruits and vegetables. This information will be promoted through weekly ALDI flyers and in store signage. The ALDI website will include recipes and nutrition tips created by a registered dietitian.

Recently, ALDI was recognized as the nation's low price grocery leader, according to a consumer survey conducted by Market Force Information Inc. When asked to rank the top 10 grocers offering low prices, consumers ranked ALDI number one, ahead of competitors such as Walmart, Costco, Kroger, Meijer and Safeway.

Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 8, 2011

articles roofcargo

ND0916114

Title: First Lady Gets Behind Darden Restaurants? Menu Changes
Description: Olive Garden and Red Lobster have committed to lowering calories and sodium in their menu offers and to revamp their children?s menus.
Page Content:

HYATTSVILLE, Md. ? Yesterday, Darden Restaurants Inc. revealed its commitment to healthier fare by announcing its intention to lower the sodium and calories and to redo the children?s menu, the Associated Press reports. First Lady Michelle Obama was on hand during the press conference at an Olive Garden restaurant.

Darden Restaurants, which owns Red Lobster, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Capital Grille, Bahama Breeze and Seasons 52, said it will cut 10 percent of the calories and sodium in every meal over the next five years, and will slash 20 percent within a decade. For the kids? fare, the company will replace sugar-sweetened drinks and French fries with a side of fruit or veggies and 1 percent milk unless otherwise requested, said Drew Madsen, president and COO of Darden.

?We think it's the most comprehensive health and wellness commitment in the industry,? said Madsen.

Obama, as part of her ?Let?s Move? campaign to reduce childhood obesity, has asked restaurants to join her in promoting ?healthy foods and healthy habits to our kids.?

Content Subject: Foodservice
Formatted Article Date: September 16, 2011

articlez zone article

ND0916115

Title: Santa Cruz County Passes Plastic Bag Ban
Description: The county Board of Supervisors also approved a fee on paper bags.
Page Content:

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. ? Santa Cruz County, California, becomes the latest municipality to ban plastic bags when the Board of Supervisors voted unanimously this week to do so, the Santa Cruz Sentinel reports.

The law will apply to grocery stores, restaurants and convenience stores and will add a dime per paper bag. However, restaurants will be able to hand out one paper bag per customer for takeout. The new law goes into effect next year.

?I think people in this county are ready for it,? said Mark Stone, who chairs the Board and who authored the proposal.

California lawmakers have resisted approving a statewide plastic bag ban twice before, but a growing number of cities and counties have passed their own bans, including Long Beach, Oakland, Palo Alto, San Francisco and Santa Monica.

Santa Cruz?s law would not charge residents on public assistance for paper bags. The paper bag fee, which will begin at 10 cents per bag, will rise to a quarter per bag after the law has been in effect for a year. Retailers would get to hang onto the fee. ?Maybe it is more than what other jurisdictions would do, but that's Santa Cruz,? said Stone.

Other California cities, including Monterey, are considering possible plastic bag bans.

Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 16, 2011

article online post now

Tevez given Man City suspension

Manchester City suspend Carlos Tevez for up to two weeks after his alleged refusal to play as a substitute in the defeat by Bayern Munich.

toys buy

Fiba.com

really good amazing stories

Arsenal without trio for Olympiakos

Preview followed by live coverage of Wednesday's game between Arsenal and Olympiakos in the Champions League.

find out test

NFL franchise 'realistic' in UK

NFL UK chief Alistair Kirkwood says the prospect of a British NFL franchise remains a realistic possibility.

articles roofcargo

ND0919111

Title: D.C. Market Bus Brings Fresh Produce to Locals
Description: The Mobile Market, a decommissioned school bus retrofitted as a farmers market on wheels, also plans to accept food stamps.
Page Content:

WASHINGTON ? The wheels on the bus go round and round?and deliver fresh produce to D.C. residents in so-called ?food deserts.?

By late October, the non-profit Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food and Agriculture plans to launch a Mobile Market, a decommissioned school bus retrofitted as a farmers market on wheels, and also plans to accept food stamps, HuffingtonPost.com/DC writes.

?As a nonprofit farm and sourcing directly from it, we have that luxury and we want to also provide food as affordably as possible,? Mobile Market manager Benjamin Bartley, a Culinary Institute of America graduate, told the news source.

Michael Babin, founder of Arcadia, purchased a 28-foot school bus from a used-car lot in Maryland to accommodate the mobile market. It?s being retrofitted with shelving, a retractable awning, refrigerators, freezers and a new engine that can accommodate biodiesel.

Bartley, chef turned bus driver, recently got a commercial driver?s license and is meeting with neighborhood leaders to assess the D.C. areas where unemployment and poverty levels are high. He told the news source that during the mobile bus?s first year, the focus would be on D.C. neighborhoods with plans to eventually expand into Maryland and Virginia.

?The whole idea for this bus is to work myself out of a job,? Bartley said, adding, ?I want to come into these neighborhoods, cultivate the demand where there isn't access to the food, and then hopefully corner stores or grocery stores can take that baton and continue supplying that demand and I can take the bus elsewhere.?

Going to the NACS Show in two weeks? You can learn more about mobile vending at the workshop ?Food on the Move: Thinking Outside Your Walls? on Saturday, Oct. 1 at 1:30 pm.

Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 19, 2011

sell cool stuff

ND0913115

Title: Waitrose to Launch C-Store Trial With Shell
Description: The trial later this year with Shell is part of a dedicated effort for the U.K. supermarket chain to expand into smaller outlets.
Page Content:

LONDON ? Royal Dutch Shell PLC and Waitrose announced plans earlier this week to install two Little Waitrose convenience stores into Shell gas stations in a two-site trial later this year, part of a dedicated effort for the U.K. supermarket chain to expand into smaller outlets, Bloomberg reports.

Waitrose will both operate and manage two Shell-owned sites in Watford, England and in London, serving as an agent for fuel sales. The two sites are in addition to 23 convenience stores for Waitrose, including several at gas stations located along highways.

"Bringing Waitrose to more people in more places is a big priority for us and so I'm very pleased to be embarking on this new pilot with Shell," said Mark Price, managing director of Waitrose.

The convenience store format has been a major growth area in recent years for U.K. supermarkets.

Content Subject: International
Formatted Article Date: September 13, 2011

zone article articles

Clubs in Europe need help - Pulis

Stoke City manager Tony Pulis says that clubs competing in Europe should be given greater flexibility over their domestic fixtures.

read and know nasa

Space Station Trio Lands Safely In Kazakhstan

Three International Space Station crew members safely returned to Earth Friday, Sept. 16, wrapping up a six-month mission of research and exploration.

test find and rely

ND0914114

Title: Thorntons Unveils Mobile Phone App
Description: The free application is available now.
Page Content:

LOUISVILLE, Ky. ? Thorntons has announced the launch of their brand-new proprietary free mobile phone app available for iPhone, Android and Blackberry users. The mobile phone app, powered by OpenStore by GasBuddy, is free for all Thorntons customers at thorntons1.com/MobileApps.aspx.

?Thorntons consumers are extremely tech-savvy and more mobile than ever,? said Matt Thornton, president/CEO of Thorntons Inc., in a press release. ?The creation of this app will enable them to have Thorntons with them 24/7. Along with the multitude of features our app offers, Thorntons customers will stay fully informed of our daily and weekly promotions, gas price alerts, and be able to manage their FREEquency Rewards card, to name just a few of the options.?

Once the app has been downloaded, customers will be able to stay on top of everything going on with their neighborhood store, as well as at the more than 160 Thorntons located throughout the Midwest. The app displays locations, in-store promotions, food menus and much more while customers can send feedback, review job postings, and receive time-sensitive electronic mobile coupons.

Specific app features include the Thorntons Mobile App GPS, which will help users to find the closest Thorntons stores and get directions from their current location. Find nearby stores based-on city and state, or zip code. The Store Features and Services will guide users to a station with a particular fuel type needed, such as diesel, E85 or kerosene, or locate the nearest 24-hour Thorntons store.

Gas Price Alerts send users instant gas price alerts before prices rise at any Thorntons location via push notifications. Promotions Alerts provide instant alerts about special promotions and deals.

Content Subject: Technology
Formatted Article Date: September 14, 2011

amazing stories article online

ND0909114

Title: 7-Eleven, Nielsen Expand Agreement
Description: The new agreement will bring 7-Eleven?s store count in Nielsen?s convenience store service to 17,500 stores in 2012.
Page Content:

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. ? Nielsen announced a broadening of its agreement with 7-Eleven Inc. from sample to full-census cooperation. The expansion will increase 7-Eleven?s store count in Nielsen?s convenience store service from 3,100 to 6,500, bringing Nielsen?s total convenience store count to 17,500 in 2012.

?Our agreement with 7-Eleven underscores our continued investment in and commitment to the convenience store channel,? said John Lewis, president and CEO, Consumer North America, Nielsen. ?Nielsen offers the most representative view of the convenience channel in the information and measurement industry. We are committed to continual innovation and enhancement of our services to drive value for our clients.?

The new agreement opens the door to developing additional analytical capabilities for consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers and 7-Eleven.

?With more 7-Eleven stores? information available through Nielsen, CPG manufacturer partners can access information that offers more detail and wider geographic representation of the convenience store industry,? said Jesus Delgado-Jenkins, 7-Eleven senior vice president of merchandising, marketing and logistics. ?The additional sales information strengthens critical decision-making, which ultimately drives improved analysis of consumer needs and buying trends.?

Content Subject: Corporate
Formatted Article Date: September 9, 2011

find and rely really nice stories

ND0926115

Title: Wisconsin to Enforce Roll-Your-Own Taxes
Description: According to state law, if a retailer or the retailer?s customer operates a RYO machine on premise, the retailer is both a cigarette manufacturer and distributor.
Page Content:

MILWAUKEE ? The Wisconsin Department of Revenue issued a notice last week to roll-your-own cigarette retailers in the state that they must follow state law and regulations if they are operating a RYO machine.�

According to state law, if a retailer or the retailer?s customer operates a RYO machine on the retailer?s premises to make cigarettes with loose tobacco, the retailer is both a cigarette manufacturer and distributor.

State law requires the retailer to:

  • Obtain both manufacturer and distributor permits from the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. A retailer needs the cigarette manufacturer permit because its business involves producing cigarettes with loose tobacco, as well as a distributor permit to ensure that all cigarette packages the customer leaves the retail premises with are affixed with the appropriate Wisconsin cigarette tax stamps.
  • Sell more than 50% of the RYO cigarettes wholesale to other retailers or vending machine operators, and retailers cannot own, control or operate these other entities. This is necessary only if retailers wish to continue selling RYO cigarettes directly to customers.
  • Obtain certification from the Wisconsin Department of Justice to be placed on its approved directory of cigarettes for sale in Wisconsin in order to comply with state law and regulations.
  • Obtain certification from the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services that these cigarettes meet the fire safety performance standards.

Retailers who fail to meet the above requirements could face fines, penalties, permit revocation, imprisonment and/or seizure of the tobacco and other personal property used in this activity.

Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 26, 2011

sell cool stuff

ND0928112

Title: Supreme Court Might Hear Health-Care Case
Description: The Obama administration bypassed the appeals court, which could mean it wants the high court to rule on the constitutionality of the health care reform law.
Page Content:

WASHINGTON ? This week, the Obama administration decided not to ask the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals to re-evaluate a health-care case, which could mean it is looking to the U.S. Supreme Court to settle the matter, Politico reports. The high court could be deciding whether or not the health care reform law is constitutional during the middle of a next year?s presidential election.�

The Department of Justice will likely ask the Supreme Court to reverse an August ruling by three appeal court judges that found the requirement to purchase health insurance to be unconstitutional. The National Federation of Independent Businesses, several individuals and 26 states joined together to file the suit.

The Justice Department ignored Monday?s deadline to request the entire panel of judges in the 11th Circuit to re-hear the case, which means the decision stands unless the agency requests a high court ruling. The Justice Department has until November to file that petition.

?This confirms what I had already concluded: That the government is confident that it?s going to prevail in the Supreme Court and would like to have a decision sooner rather than later,? said former acting Solicitor General Walter Dellinger, who worked on briefs in favor of the new law.

Most involved with the case expected that it would end up in the Supreme Court. Given the split on appeal court decisions relating to the health care reform law, the high court will likely accept the case.

Content Subject: Government Relations
Formatted Article Date: September 28, 2011

cool stuff you want to learn

ND0921114

Title: Google Wallet Now Available
Description: The program has Citi and MasterCard on board, but is courting American Express, Discover and Visa.
Page Content:

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. ? Google has officially launched its Google Wallet program with MasterCard and Citi, the Washington Post reports. Currently, Google is talking to American Express, Discover and Visa to bring more diversity to the program.

Four months ago, the online firm announced the payment initiative, along with Google Offers, with a promise to debut Google Wallet by summer?s end, which it just barely met. Consumers use a Google Wallet app downloaded on their mobile phone, which is linked to a MasterCard or Citi account. Consumers also can load funds on a pre-paid Google Wallet card for payment.

To buy goods, users wave the phone in front of a reader. Vendors with the reader include Subway and Macy?s.�

Google says its app is secure and that the company will not be able to get into users? financial data or purchase information. However, coupon usage will be accessible.

However, not many will be able to use the application right now, but near-field communication chips will be coming to more phones and that should expand usage.

Content Subject: Technology
Formatted Article Date: September 21, 2011

find and rely really nice stories

NBA pre-season hit by 'lockout'

The NBA postpones training camps and cancels 43 pre-season games following the failure to reach a new collective bargaining agreement.

you want to learn rino

NASA Offers Shuttle Tiles And Space Food To Schools And Universities

NASA is offering space shuttle heat shield tiles and dehydrated astronaut food to eligible schools and universities.

education get links

Space Station Trio Lands Safely In Kazakhstan

Three International Space Station crew members safely returned to Earth Friday, Sept. 16, wrapping up a six-month mission of research and exploration.

rino hippo

вторник, 27 септември 2011 г.

Lilleshall gymnasts' medal hopes

Britain's gymnasts leave Lilleshall for next week's World Championships with one eye on London 2012.

get new really good

ND0922116

Title: Marathon Boosts Loyalty Services
Description: The company is increasing its private-label and co-branded credit and marketing services for more than 5,000 independently owned locations.
Page Content:

DALLAS ? Marathon Petroleum Corporation (MPC) has teamed up with Alliance Data Systems Corporation to provide private label and co-branded credit card services for its network of 5,100 independently owned Marathon branded sites in 18 states.

Alliance Data will provide Marathon Petroleum with private label and co-branded credit card services, including account acquisition and activation, receivables funding, card authorization, credit card issuance, statement generation, remittance processing, customer service functions and marketing services.

To help boost and retain customer loyalty, Marathon Petroleum?s private label and co-brand account-holders will receive benefits for repeat purchases, such as discounts on fuel at Marathon-branded stations. Co-brand cardholders may earn additional rewards based on purchases made on the card outside Marathon brand locations.

?Through our robust network of independently owned brand retail locations, MPC has placed a strong emphasis on growing our presence throughout the regions in which we operate. We?re proud to build on our long-standing tradition of providing the highest quality products and services available,? said Tom Kelley, senior vice president of marketing at Marathon Petroleum.

?Marathon Petroleum is a company rich in history, and we are excited to help build its business by delivering card programs that will help the company achieve its near- and long-term sales and growth goals,? said Melisa Miller, president of Alliance Data Retail Services. ?Our comprehensive solution fits well with Marathon Petroleum?s brand model by helping individual business owners and dealers increase sales and drive loyalty among their customers.?�

Marathon Petroleum is the nation's fifth-largest refiner with a crude capacity in excess of 1.1 million barrels per day in its six-refinery system. In addition, Speedway LLC, an MPC subsidiary, owns and operates the nation's fourth largest convenience store chain, with approximately 1,375 locations in seven states. MPC also owns, operates, leases or has ownership interest in approximately 9,600 miles of pipeline.
Content Subject: Operations
Formatted Article Date: September 22, 2011

zone article articles

Haitang (Western North Pacific Ocean)



Very cold temperatures in NASA infrared satellite imagery of tropical cyclones tell meteorologists that cloud tops are high, and the thunderstorms they're associated with have a lot of punch.

hippo articlez

Watson beaten in Shrewsbury final

Heather Watson loses 6-0 6-3 to Germany's Mona Barthel in the final of the Aegon GB Pro-Series event in Shrewsbury.

article online post now

Murray complaints unjust - Stich

Michael Stich is unhappy with suggestions from Andy Murray that players could strike over what they consider to be an overcrowded schedule.

education get links

ND0926112

Title: Visa and MasterCard Undermine Swipe Fee Reform
Description: Federal Reserve is complicit in Visa, MasterCard attack on small business.
Page Content:

WASHINGTON ? According to recent news reports, Visa and MasterCard will treat the swipe fee cap set earlier this year by the Federal Reserve as a minimum as well, costing retailers more on small transactions. The intent of the bipartisan law passed by Congress in 2010 was to fix the broken debit market, rein in out of control swipe fees and save small businesses money. ??

?This move by Visa and MasterCard clearly hurts businesses and consumers by undermining Congress? intent that swipe fees be reasonable and proportional,? said Mallory Duncan, chairman of the Merchants Payments Coalition.�?Attempting to charge the public the maximum ceiling amount, no matter how small the transaction is, unfortunately is all too typical of what we?ve come to expect from the card companies and their banks.???

Data released by the Federal Reserve in December showed that, although merchants paid on average 44 cents on every debit transaction, the transaction cost just 4 cents to process.�By comparison, paper checks have been processed without any interchange fee for nearly a century.�In December, the Federal Reserve proposed a cap between 7 and 12 cents for banks with $10 billion in assets, ensuring 200 percent profit for the issuing banks.�In July the Federal Reserve released a dramatically different final rule that raised that cap to 21 cents, guaranteeing an astounding 525 percent profit on every transaction.

Bank costs have been low enough to carry these small transactions at a significantly lower swipe fee rate for years.�According to analysts, the swipe fee hike may increase swipe fees on a $2 purchase from 8 cents to 23 cents.?

?The Federal Reserve is complicit in the fleecing of America?s retailers, small and large, and consumers.�Today?s news is proof-positive that the Federal Reserve?s decision to kowtow to the big banks and credit card networks and abandon the facts that supported its earlier proposal have given license to Visa and MasterCard swipe more from small merchants struggling to survive,? said Katherine Lugar, executive vice president for public affairs at the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA).

Content Subject: Government Relations
Formatted Article Date: September 26, 2011

zone article articles

Tweddle heads up strong GB squad

Three-time champion Beth Tweddle leads a strong Great Britain team at the World Gymnastics Championships in Tokyo from 10-16 October.

cool stuff you want to learn

Brighton 1-3 Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace fight back well in the second half, after trailing, to win 3-1 at rivals Brighton in the Championship.

read and know nasa

Time for player power?

Jonathan Overend on why tennis' top players could strike over the crowded calendar

get links sell