Build a Machine Empire on iPad with Robot Tycoon

Robot Tycoon for the iPad allows players to conquer the world with a legion of ‘bots -- not through war, but by creating a business empire like no other.

In Robot Tycoon players build and manage a robot factory. Would-be entrepreneurs must carefully balance customer demands, pricing and human resources to grow the business from door-to-door sales to a big robot factory pumping robots out day and night.

The game gives players total control of the company. In the process, they encounter challenges on every aspect of the business:

• Sales: Start with making individual door-to-door sales and work your way up to filling major orders. Negotiate with customers to ensure profits. Get immediate feedback on good/bad sales
• Design and Production: Determine robot shape, color and personality to build different models. Follow a wiring map to get your robots ready for market
• Human Resources:  Hire and train employees
• Monitoring: Track your progress monthly and monitor what type of product is popular among your customers, including costs and profits for each period
• Expansion: Decide whether to stay small or move up to a store and eventually a manufacturing plant
• OpenFeint Support: Share your top score with friends worldwide

“Robots can be helpers, pets and even -- dare we say it? – friends. Robot Tycoon gives players the opportunity to become the Rockefeller of robots, creating and selling little ‘bots for fun and profit,” says Danta CEO, Hugo Diaz. “Building a business and making money never gets old. It can be played by both young people and MBA students with valuable takeaways for both segments.”

Developed by successful entrepreneurs at the Acton Foundation for Entrepreneurial Excellence, the game was created to address real-world business concepts and issues facing start-up companies. The title’s PC version has been used in top business curriculums like Harvard Business School and Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management to provide students with basic insights into running a company.

The original PC release of Robot Tycoon won the prestigious Horizon Interactive and Summit International awards.

Robot Tycoon is now available in the App Store for $4.99. For more information about Robot Tycoon and/or Danta, please visit www.robottycoon.com

About Danta

Danta Entertainment is a division of Danta Group that licenses and distributes educational games. Danta enables parents and educational institutions to create interactive, entertaining learning experiences on digital media.

The company works closely with the Acton Foundation for Entrepreneurial Excellence (AFEE), utilizing the Acton SIM Games as the main tool to provide virtual entrepreneurial experiences with instant feedback.

Danta's executive team has a record of more than ten years in the field and 3 million-plus satisfied customers in seven countries. Robot Tycoon is the company’s first title for the iPad.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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Kids and Technology

Once upon a time, a set of building blocks or a click 'n view toy was all you needed to entertain a child. However, as technology continues to play an integral role in our day-to-day lives, our kids are becoming more interested in -- and savvy with -- electronics and gadgets. While it's remarkable that technologies have become so intuitive that even a child can operate them, it is important to consider how home electronic systems may need to be adapted.

A CEDIA professional can provide a series of tips that can help families work together to understand the best technologies for their lifestyle and provide examples of how the systems can be designed to respond differently to each user. For example, CEDIA members can create a system that will allow a child watch television during designated hours but may restrict certain channels and be set to a time limit, based on a password that is required to activate the remote control. Another home electronics system might text parents when their children disarm the house alarm after school.

To learn more, you can log onto CEDIA.net, where you can find a CEDIA professional in their area.

Here are some additional perspective on integrated home systems that are family-friendly from Joe Calise, President of Sights - N - Sounds in Seaford, NY and CEDIA member:

Do your kids use your home system mostly for entertainment, or for other benefits/functions as well?

Mostly entertainment. However, many kids shows provide education, as well.  We prefer a more hands on approach to education, but certainly don't mind them watching educational programming if they are going to watch TV.

What are some elements of your home system or your clients' systems that are beneficial to both parents and kids?

Having a system that a 3-year-old can operate gives them more freedom to learn. It also enables them to be more self-sufficient when they need or want something. 

Have you adapted your system designs to account for the fact that kids today are becoming more and more adept at technology?

I believe you have to.  When it comes times to show how a system works, usually the first thing asked is for the kids to watch so they can operate the system!  After grabbing a pen and notepad, they are usually very surprised that they did not even need to take notes. With the kids, when technology does not do what they expect it to do, it gives us insight on what we need to focus on for our next project.

Additional thoughts/perspective:

With technology becoming more converged, and simplified, we as an industry need to do more to prove our value, and how we can make systems customized to their own environments.  This is a challenging task, but it's important to adapt to the times.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

 

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Summer Travel Games Encourage Parents to find the “Right Game / Right Child”

With summer on the horizon, many families are going to take video games with them, and there are also a ton of video games in hotels these days…

But how do you know what is the “right game for the right child”?

Everyone knows the difference between a “PG” and an “R” movie rating for children, but parents may not understand the different ways that the ESRB breaks down video games… the ESRB (Entertainment Software Ratings Board) is a non-profit group, designed to be a resource for parents, especially when they shop this holiday season… video games again expected to be at the top of many lists… 

Well, there is a cool NEW technology that debuted recently that provides info in seconds, and has especially interesting visuals to go with it.

Here’s a link to the new free app - http://www.esrb.org/mobile/

This application provides facts not reviews, and provides the information that went into why the game received the rating it did.

Would you believe that 90 percent – nine out of 10 times – when a game is purchased, a parent or guardian is present? 



ESRB KEY STATS

Video games are fast becoming one of the most popular forms of entertainment media
today, with software sales reaching $10.5 billion in 2009

The average age of a gamer today is 34. Just like movies and TV shows, not all video
games are meant for children

FTC reports that an adult is involved in the purchase of a game 89% of the time, so it’s
clear that parents must be educated about making informed choices

Various national, state and local PSA and public education campaigns get the message
to parents that there are tools they may use to make informed, sensible choices about
video games for their children and families

ESRB ratings are on virtually every game package; age ratings on front and content
descriptors on back provide information with which to make an educated purchase
decision

Parents should learn about and utilize both parts of the ratings, and consider
them a significant part of their decision about whether to purchase or rent a game

The rating summaries on ESRB’s website are a great supplemental source of
information, providing detailed descriptions of the specific content in a game that a
parent may want to know about

Retailers display signage explaining the rating system to consumers, and store
associates are trained to assist parents who need help choosing games

Major retailers have store policies restricting the sale or rental of M-rated games to
those under 17 without parental permission

The FTC’s most recent audit measured compliance with these store policies among
national retailers at 80%, far surpassing the rates of restriction for DVDs, music and
admittance to R-rated movies

Parents should be involved in and informed about their children’s video gaming;
monitor gameplay and play games with their children; check the rating each time they
buy or rent a game

Parents should also take advantage of parental controls that are featured on all new
game consoles

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.


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Free Poynt App Helps Families Multitask

Parents today know that running the household is serious business. And like any other business, there is a hefty amount of multitasking involved. Poynt, the all-in-one GPS enabled local search app is a great app for the multitasking involved in managing a family. Poynt allows users to search for the best prices at nearby gas stations, the closest fast and healthy meal on the go, the latest PG movie showing, the closest urgent care, and local weather. Also, with Poynt’s new local events feature, it’s easy for users to check out events in the area- great for last minute family outings.

Poynt is currently being used by over 6.5 million unique users on Android, iPhone, Windows Phone 7, Blackberry and Nokia smart phones.  Poynt will also soon be available on the Blackberry Playbook.
 For more info about the monster multitasking app, visit http://www.poynt.com/

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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OWC Announces Hard Drive/SSD Upgrades for Just Announced New 2011 MacBook Pros

Other World Computing (OWC^®) http://www.macsales.com, a leading zero emissions Mac^® and PC technology company, announced today the immediate availability of higher capacity, higher speed hard drives and Solid State Drives (SSDs) “Do it Yourself” kits for the new MacBook^® Pro 13", 15", and 17" models announced by Apple^® last week.  OWC’s complete upgrade kits provide all the needed tools, including a bus-powered external enclosure, for the easy installation, data transfer, and ongoing use of the original drive for additional external storage and/or data backup.

OWC Internal Hard Drive/SSD Upgrade Kits for MacBook Pro 13", 15", and 17" models include:

·        OWC 1TB Hard Drive Kit - features 33% more storage capacity than the largest 750GB drive factory option.  Priced at:  $122.99.

·        OWC 750GB 7200RPM Hard Drive Kit – 50% more storage capacity than the largest 500GB 7200RPM drive factory option.  Priced at:  $124.99 (compared to up to $150 for factory 750GB 5400RPM upgrade option).

·        OWC Mercury Extreme™ Pro Solid State Drive (SSD) Kits - priced from $114.99 (up to 54% less than the factory SSD options) with capacities of up to 480GB.

OWC’s broad line of Mac and PC notebook drive upgrades in capacities ranging from 500GB to 1TB as well as the industry’s fastest OWC Mercury Extreme Pro SSD upgrades are available for immediate ordering at: http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/hard-drives/2.5-Notebook/.

Memory Upgrades Available for New MacBook Pros with up to 55% Savings for 8GB

In addition to storage upgrades, OWC has also announced an 8GB Memory Upgrade Kit for the new MacBook Pro models, with savings of up 55% versus the factory installed 8GB option; as well as 6GB of total memory not available from the factory.  Both memory upgrades are available immediately at: 

http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/Apple_MacBook_MacBook_Pro/Upgrade/DDR3_1333MHz_SDRAM.

Full product and ordering information for OWC memory, internal drive upgrades up to 1TB, optical bay upgrades, and other accessories for all Mac laptops, including the new 2011 models, is available at: http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/Apple_MacBook_MacBook_Pro/Upgrade.

“We pride ourselves in offering new Mac owners more performance and expanded choices compared to factory available,” said Larry O’Connor, Founder and CEO, Other World Computing. “With memory, hard drive, SSD, and optical bay upgrades available, OWC is a one-stop shop for new MacBook Pro owners to get the most from their machine.”

About Other World Computing (OWC)

Other World Computing (OWC) has been providing quality hardware products and support to the computer industry since 1988 and features one of the largest online catalogs of Macintosh^®, PC, and iOS device enhancement products through its e-commerce portal www.macsales.com. As a member of the Apple Developer Program, OWC also provides extensive U.S. based technical support for Macintosh users around the world as well as Internet access via www.fastermac.net and www.owc.net.

OWC’s industry awards and recognition include: Crain’s Chicago Business 2009 “Fast 50” List of 50 Fastest Growing Companies in the Chicago Area; Inc. 5,000 “Fastest Growing Privately Owned Companies in America” list honoree 2007-2010; Reseller Ratings Elite Member 2009 & 2010; Better Business Bureau Top Rating of A+ 2010; Reflex Packaging Commitment to Excellence Recycling Award 2009; Computerworld Magazine Top Green-IT Companies for 2008; and McHenry County Economic Development Corporation 2008 Business Champion Award.

In March 2010, OWC’s corporate campus was designated as LEED^® Platinum by the Green Building Certification Institute (http://eshop.macsales.com/green/index.html). Platinum is the highest achievable LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Program level, which began in 1998. Out of more than 14,000 LEED projects engaged worldwide since the program’s inception, OWC is one of less than three hundred to achieve the Platinum standard. In Septmber 2010, OWC’s headquarters earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ENERGY STAR^® rating for building operations that perform in the top 25 percent of similar facilities nationwide for energy efficiency.


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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OWC Announces Massive 12TB Enterprise RAID Storage Drive - Mercury Elite-AL Pro Qx2

Other World Computing (OWC®) http://www.macsales.com, a leading zero emissions Mac® and PC technology company, announced today the OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro Qx2 hardware RAID storage drive with massive 12TB of storage/backup in a desktop-sized brushed aluminum enclosure.  Featuring four 3TB high performance hard drives in four hot swappable drive bays, the Mercury Elite-AL Pro Qx2 12TB RAID storage drive offers the flexibility of a “Quad Interface” of FireWire^® 800, FireWire 400, USB 2.0, and eSATA; four selectable Hardware RAID settings of 0, 1, 5, 10; and 300MB/s data transfer rates for high speed, Plug & Play storage and redundancy for Macs and PCs.

Built for Demanding Performance-Intensive Applications

The OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro Qx2 is built for demanding performance-intensive applications, such as:

·        Cloud storage

• Massive Scale Out (MSO)
• Data warehousing & mining
• Disk-to-disk backup & archiving
• RAID arrays
• Network Attached Storage (NAS)
• Audio/Video/HD-video editing.
• Digital photography/graphics.
• Professional music.
• Redundant backup.

2 Million MTBF for Enterprise-Class High Reliability

Designed for 24/7 enterprise-class capacity-optimized applications, the Mercury Elite-AL Pro Qx2 offers two million MTBF, nearly double the MTBF of consumer class drives, for unsurpassed reliability for critical enterprise applications.  Pre-configured in Hardware RAID 5 mode to provide data redundancy for uninterrupted access and protection against data loss, the drive can also be automatically configured to use the other hardware RAID settings: 0, 1, or 10, as well as a Span (NRAID).  Selecting and visually confirming the RAID setting is performed by a recessed selector switch safely located behind the lockable front panel.

Comprehensive “Burn-in” Testing Ensures Highest Reliability - Includes Five Year Warranty

Unlike most other brands that are shipped with little or no testing, the OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro Qx2 12TB as well as the full Qx2 line undergoes a multi-hour “burn in” performance certification procedure to ensure that the unit is operating properly and ready for demanding use.  With this unmatched commitment to quality, OWC backs the Mercury Elite-AL Pro Qx2 with an industry leading five year warranty.

OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro Qx2 12TB desktop hardware RAID Features:

• Four 3TB high performance hard drives for 12TB capacity.
• Four separate interfaces: FireWire 800, FireWire 400, USB, & eSATA.
• Four selectable hardware RAID settings: 0, 1, 5, 10.
• Fast 300MB/s data transfer rates.
• Two million MTFP for high reliability.
• Extensively pre-tested for demanding use.
• Front panel LEDs offer quick, at-a-glance system status.
• All connection cables are included.
• Removable Key Lock for extra security.
• Five year warranty.

Pricing & Availability and Additional Drive Capacity Models

The 12TB OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro Qx2 is available immediately, priced at $2,219.99.  It includes cables for eSATA, FireWire 800, FireWire 400, and USB 2.0/1.1, power cord, two keys for front panel lock, Backup and Utility software CD:  Intech® SpeedTools Utilities™ OEM, Prosoft Engineering® Data Backup, NovaStor NovaBACKUP®, Carbon Copy Cloner©, and Freeware/Shareware/Public domain software pre-installed.  For more information on the OWC Mercury Elite-AL Pro Qx2 12TB, see:  http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/hard-drives/RAID/Desktop/

In addition, the Mercury Elite-AL Pro Qx2 is also available with various drive capacity options from 0TB (no drive included) to 12TB, starting from $479.99 see http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/hard-drives/RAID/Desktop/ for more info.

OWC “Pro Corner” Professional User Testimonials

Check out OWC’s “Pro Corner” for information on how the pros use OWC drives in their work environment:  http://eshop.macsales.com/owcpages/procorner/

• “I love the fact that I can call at five o’clock at night and it’s here the next morning.” - Rick Nielson, musician, Cheap Trick^®.  
• “OWC drives are the only ones that never fail, flawless, perfect, and never a lemon.” - Kerry Muzzey, American film and television composer.
• “We look for gear that we’re comfortable using.  That usually means that it works without failure.  That’s the Qx2.” - Jim Dalrymple, original member, MacCentral.com.
• “I have never had one of your drives go down, ever!  Like, ever!  Ever, ever, ever!” - Chris Vrenna, Grammy^® award-winning producer.

About Other World Computing (OWC)

Other World Computing (OWC) has been providing quality hardware products and support to the computer industry since 1988 and features one of the largest online catalogs of computer, iPod®, iPhone®, and iPad™ enhancement products through its e-commerce portal www.macsales.com. As an Apple Certified Developer, OWC also provides extensive US based technical support for Macintosh users around the world as well as Internet access via www.fastermac.net and www.owc.net.  OWC’s industry awards and recognition include: Crain’s Chicago Business 2009 “Fast 50” List of 50

Fastest Growing Companies in the Chicago Area; Inc. 5,000 “Fastest Growing Privately Owned Companies in America” list honoree 2007-2010; Reseller Ratings Elite Member 2009 & 2010; Better Business Bureau Top Rating of A+ 2010; Reflex Packaging Commitment to Excellence Recycling Award 2009; Computerworld Magazine Top Green-IT Companies for 2008; and McHenry County Economic Development Corporation 2008 Business Champion Award. 

In March 2010, OWC’s corporate campus was designated as LEED Platinum by the Green Building Certification Institute (http://eshop.macsales.com/green/index.html). Platinum is the highest achievable LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Program level, which began in 1998. Out of more than 14,000 LEED projects engaged worldwide since the program's inception, OWC is one of less than three hundred to achieve the Platinum standard. In September 2010, OWC’s headquarters earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ENERGY STAR rating for building operations that perform in the top 25 percent of similar facilities nationwide for energy efficiency.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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Fiske Interactive - A College Guide for the iPad

For more than 25 years, millions of parents, counselors, and college-bound students have turned to The Fiske Guide to Colleges for an independent perspective on the distinctive personalities of the best and most interesting colleges and universities in the U.S., Canada, and Great Britain.

Now, the Fiske Interactive College Guide brings you every aspect of the book—plus much more—in an app!

Check out the video! (It’s only 78 seconds long) http://www.sourcebooks.com/next/apps/fiske-interactive-college-guide.html

Fiske Interactive allows you to go beyond the book and streamline your college search with the following resources and tools:

• Plan your college tour with built-in Google map function
• Find school deadlines and application dates
• Email admissions departments directly from the app
• Browse each college website
• Check out comparable campuses (“overlap schools”)

Fiske Interactive also allows parents and students to quickly and easily organize their top choices using lists and notes:

• Flag schools for a second look
• Categorize the schools you are interested in by using the “Safety Schools,” “Probable Schools,” and  “Reach Schools” list feature
• Add notes to each school

Fiske Interactive includes the hallmark Fiske Profiles that provide a candid, authoritative look at the academic climates and extracurricular scenes of 310+ colleges and universities. The app allows you to browse through the guide with a swipe of your finger, view photos of each campus, or search by your chosen criteria, including state, campus location, enrollment size, academic program, Fiske rating, or just a keyword.

It’s the next best thing to being on campus.

You’ll quickly find the Fiske Interactive College Guide to be your most trusted, on-the-go companion, bringing much-needed calm and sanity to one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make.

Fiske Interactive ($19.99) is available exclusively for the iPad.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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iBike Dash CC Wireless Cycling Computer Launched for iPhone & iPod touch

Velocomp LLP, www.iBikeDash.com, a leading sports technology company and creator of the iBike^® line of power meters, announced today the iBike Dash CC (Cycling Computer), a light-weight wireless bicycle computer system that turns any iPhone or iPod touch into your own personal fitness trainer.  Priced starting at $199, the iBike Dash CC creates an entirely new category of interactive cycling devices, enhancing the cycling experience in a much more intimate, intuitive and fun way than ever before to help you finally keep that New Year’s resolution to get in shape!

Includes Free iPhone/iPod touch Bike App with Easy-to-Read High-Res Color Graphics & Animation

Easy to install, the compact (3.2 oz) iBike Dash CC takes your biking from leisure to fitness, helping you quickly reach your goals by measuring your speed, power, heart rate, wind speed, time, trip, elevation, and calories to become healthier and fitter.  The iBike Dash CC includes a free iBike app available from the iTunes App Store at: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/ibike/id369550718?mt=8, which features customizable tools, from simple speedometers to work-out programs.  The app is displayed on the iPhone or iPod touch screen with easy to read high-resolution color graphics and animation.

Dispels “No Pain, No Gain” Myth – “HR Pacing Meter” Tells Boundaries – Critical for Safe Training

Intelligent biking is all about sustaining your energy, so that you have more than enough left for the last few miles.  Forget the “no pain, no gain” myth, the iBike Dash CC tells you how hard is too hard.  Riding within your boundaries is critical for safe training, and with the iBike Dash CC’s “HR Pacing Meter,” you can see at a glance whether your heart rate in the right zone.  The HR Pacing Meter determines your fitness level with 5 Heart Rate Color Zones from 50% to 100%. These zones indicate the degree of difficulty you will experience when cycling in each zone at your fitness level:  from Blue (very light) to Red (very hard).  Each of the zones address different goals, from losing weight in the bottom zones to improving fitness in the middle zones, to maximizing performance in the top zones.  After regular exercise, you’ll find you’re able to exercise more comfortably in the upper zones and for longer times in the lower zones.

Use Optimal Cycling Effort to Burn Fat

iBike Dash CC also tells you when your cycling effort is optimal for burning fat; how many calories you’re using during the ride, on all rides this week or all rides this month; what speed and distance you’re traveling; and even where you are on your bike route.  Also, iBike Dash CC can help you set some personal goals, measure your progress and allow you to adjust your performance as you enjoy your ride.

Virtual Co-pilot, Navigator, & Trainer -- All in One

“We’d all like to be fitter, healthier and lose some weight, but the truth is just riding your bike for

half an hour or so a day won’t necessarily do it,” said John Hamann, CEO, Velocomp.  “With the revolutionary iBike Dash CC on your iPhone or iPod touch, you can take the next step, knowing how to manage your biking effort to the best effect to help you become fitter with an amazing cycling dashboard at your fingertips -- a virtual co-pilot, navigator, and trainer -- all in one.”

iBike Dash CC Features:

• 50 power-based and Heart Rate (HR) zone workouts.
• Includes ANT+ speed sensor with optional sensors for cadence and HR.
• User customizable touch screens display cycling information in color with unique graphics and animation.
• Features easy-to-read large fonts with back-light display for night-time viewing.

·         iPhone’s GPS, map, and weather capabilities operate seamlessly with the iDash, greatly enhancing the rider’s experience.

·         Power-based indoor trainer feature.

·         Bike odometer.

• Calendar feature keeps track of weekly cycling stats, including calories, miles and speed.

·         HR Zone dial presents cycling exertion in an extremely intuitive manner.

·         Easy-to-follow, on-screen instructions and instructional videos.

• “Phone Booth^TM” dashboard/case houses circuitry, keeps out water and absorbs shock.
• Easy to install, use, and move from bike to bike.
• No need for calibration.
• Allows seamless hands-free calls using your iPhone and Bluetooth headset with no interruption to ride data collection.
• Allows full use of touch screen, even while wearing cycling gloves.
• A rechargeable/replaceable spare battery can be housed inside the “Phone Booth” to extend the

      operating time of your iPhone/iPod touch.

·         Compatible with all ANT+ speed, cadence and HR sensors.

Pricing & Availability

The iBike Dash CC is available immediately for iPhone and iPod touch, priced at $199 MSRP for the basic version and $329 MSRP for the advanced version with additional features (including cadence, HR, calorie measurement, battery and charger) through the Apple Store at:  http://store.apple.com/us/product/H3828LL/A or Velocomp at: http://www.ibikesports.com/ibikestore.html.  iBike Dash CC includes the holder, mount, wireless speed sensor, iBike app for iPhone or iPod touch, and iBike software for Mac and Windows desktop computers.  For more information, see www.ibikedash.com.

About Velocomp - First to Deliver Advanced Power Measurement at a Consumer-Friendly Price

Velocomp, LLP is a leading sports technology company based in Boca Raton, Florida. The first in the bicycle industry to deliver advanced power measurement at a mainstream price, Velocomp is dedicated to

product breakthroughs in the areas of performance, measurement, design, and value.  Launched in June

2006, thousands of iBike^® power meters are being enjoyed worldwide.  For more information, see www.iBikeSports.com. 

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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DisneyToon Studios Announces Planes!

 The sky’s the limit as DisneyToon Studios proudly announces PLANES – a spectacular, full-length CG animated comedy action adventure movie for everyone set high above the world of CARS. PLANES will introduce an entirely original and hilarious crew of daredevils from every corner of the globe and draws inspiration from the immensely popular Disney•Pixar’s CARS world. PLANES will arrive on Blu-ray™ and DVD in Spring 2013. 

“We had such a great time exploring the world of ‘Cars’ over the course of two films, so it seemed only natural for us to see where our imaginations would take us in a film where planes were the main characters.   By expanding the Cars world, ‘Planes’ gave us a whole new set of fun-filled situations and a great opportunity to introduce some fantastic new characters,” commented John Lasseter, Chief Creative Officer, Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios. “The team at DisneyToon Studios has done such an amazing job creating a heartfelt story filled with great comedy, adventure, and emotion.  I know audiences are going to love taking off into the wild blue yonder with these daredevil characters, as they experience a whole new kind of animated adventure.” 

PLANES takes off with an international cast of the fastest air racers around, in a comedy packed with action and adventure starring Dusty, a small town dreamer who longs to enter the most 

epic around-the-world air race … despite his fear of heights.  With the help and support of a 

fleet of new and hilarious characters, Dusty wings his way into the biggest challenge of his life. 

Fasten your seatbelt as more information on PLANES will be arriving shortly. 

ABOUT THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS  

For more than 85 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company (DIS: NYSE) was built. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under four banners: Walt Disney Pictures,  which includes Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios; Disneynature; Touchstone Pictures; and Marvel. Through the Home Entertainment division, innovative distribution methods provide access to creative content across multiple platforms. Original music and motion-picture soundtracks are produced under Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records, while Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Broadway theatrical productions, Disney on Ice and Disney LIVE! For more information, visit www.disney.com.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions. 

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The Gatekeepers Post Launches a New Social Media Book Publishing Community

Author and media personality, Jeff Rivera launches The Gatekeepers Post, a new social media community intended to make a significant impact on the conversation of book publishing.With the decline in print book sales, the increase of eBooks, the rapid closing of independent bookstores and the boom in young adult fiction, the world of book publishing is experiencing a flux few could have anticipated even five years ago.
Industry outlets have struggled to keep pace with the new developments in publishing but the changes are happening too fast for anyone to cover it all.  The industry and public's insatiable appetite for fresh news on the rapid changes has only increased.
The Gatekeepers Post hopes to satisfy that appetite.  A cross between Huffington Post and Publishers Weekly, the outlet features some of the most important and respected voices in book publishing.
Joined by an editorial advisory board that includes the likes of print and online magazine editor Neal Boulton; TechSavvy high-tech consulting CEO Scott Steinberg; New York Times bestselling author and Publisher, Zane; Planned TV Arts’ Rick Frishman; Editor-in-Chief of Publishing Perspectives Ed Nawotka; Smashwords’ Mark Coker; Thomas Dunne Book’s Brendan Deneen; eReads.com publisher and veteran literary agent Richard Curtis; Editor-in-Chief of Gawker.tv Richard Blakeley; former Writers Digest Books Editor-at-Large Jane Friedman; Authorpreneur Joe Konrath; and Hachette’s Director of Multicultural Publicity Linda Duggins.  The new outlet also features Gatekeepers bloggers that site founder and Editor-in-Chief Jeff Rivera personally handpicked.
"The support from the industry has been overwhelming," says Rivera, "I'm proud of the high caliber of Gatekeepers and guest bloggers who'll be joining us."  Veteran agents, major editors, librarians, publishers, publicists and authors such as New York Times bestseller Alisa Valdes Rodriguez will be lending their voice to the community as well. Book publishing heavy weights such as Andrea Barzvi of ICM, Keith Ogorek of Author Solutions, Harvey Klinger of the Harvey Klinger Agency, Bill Gladstone of Waterside Productions, Glenn Yeffeth of BenBella Books, Steve Wilson CEO of  Fast Pencil and Ellen Goldsmith-Vein of Gotham Group have also joined.
A steady stream of book-centric reviews, headlining news, articles, and op-ed pieces, will be incorporated within the outlet along with forthcoming special events such as virtual panel discussions and online conferences.
Gatekeepers Post officially launched on February 1, 2011 at midnight.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions. 

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Father's Day Gift Idea: Soundmatters Delivers foxLv2 Bluetooth for iPad - Ultimate Wireless Portable Speaker

Soundmatters www.soundmatters.com, the leader in high-quality, portable speakers founded by former NASA engineer/audio legend Dr. Godehard Guenther, announced today it is delivering foxL^TMv2 Bluetooth for iPad,  the ultimate wireless portable speaker for the iPad.  The perfect iPad travel companion, foxL Bluetooth is the first pocket-sized wireless speaker that audio purists will love, with a range of unique sound features, such as foxL’s patented “Twoofers,” “BassBattery,” and other technologies that provide a smoother deeper bass and an “open & airy” listening experience that provide iPads and other products with the superior sound quality they so desperately need to let you enjoy your portable movie and music experience to the fullest. 

Great Father’s Day Gift – Amazingly Good HiFi Bluetooth Music Streaming in a Tiny Package

A great gift for Father’s Day, dad will love bringing the highly portable battery-operated foxL Bluetooth hi-fi audio speaker wherever he brings his iPad, on the road, at work for presentations, to play music at parties, watch movies in the living room, tailgate at football games, and much more.  Priced at only $199 and incredibly small at 5.6” wide x 2.2” high x 1.4” deep with 8 hours of rechargeable battery-time, foxL Bluetooth features a full range of audio output from 80Hz – 20kHz with real bass for amazingly good Bluetooth music streaming in a tiny package that fits with your portable lifestyle.  With the latest v2 of foxL Bluetooth, all iPad and other Bluetooth devices (including iPhone, iPod touch, laptops, portable gaming, and Bluetooth/music phones) will experience longer battery life and improved Bluetooth due to the updated 2.2 circuitry.

foxLv2 Bluetooth for iPad Features:

·        Patented Audio Technology:  provides more audio output for louder, distortion-free sound.  

o       Features patented Dual 1-inch Linear Magnetic Drive^TM “Twoofers” more likely found in large expensive hi-fi speakers for remarkable clarity and range.

o       Patented “BassBattery^TM” Technology turns the battery into a woofer for smoother

            deeper bass.  

o       “DomeForward^TM”driver alignment and high-transparency acoustic grill provide an “open and airy” listening experience, typical of good home speakers.

·        Built-in Noise-canceling Mic:  for “business quality” wireless speaker phone/conferencing.

·        Bluetooth Music Streaming:  provides surprisingly high-quality Bluetooth stereo with auto pairing and even shows up in the iPad’s AirPlay menu.

·        Plays & Charges Anywhere:  Along with its patented re-chargeable built-in woofer/battery (for up to 8 hours of play), it plays and charges with the included universal AC charger (with four international adapters) and included USB cable.

foxL and iPad – Match Made in Heaven

“foxL and iPad is a match made in heaven.  foxL augments the iPad with its shockingly good sound quality, portability, excellent battery life and simple, intuitive operation,” said Lee Adams, Vice President, Soundmatters International, Inc.  “Ultra-compact, with a sleek industrial design, foxL brings musical clarity and the full impact of your movie’s soundtrack to your iPad experience…anywhere.”

Pricing & Availability

The foxLv2 Bluetooth for iPad and other Bluetooth devices is priced at $199, available immediately through major online retailers, including Hammacher Schlemmer, Sharper Image, Music Direct, Amazon.com and more, as well as through the Soundmatters site at:  www.soundmatters.com.  foxLv2 Bluetooth for iPad comes with the portable speaker, re-chargeable built-in woofer/battery, universal AC power charger, four international charger adapters (for US, Japan, Europe/China, UK/HK, and AU/NZ), USB computer charging cable, stereo 3.5mm audio cable, wrist strap, travel pouch, anti-slip mat,  and manual.  In addition, Soundmatters provides a wired version of foxLv2, priced at $169.  

Award-Winning foxL Line of Portable Speakers

The foxL line of portable speakers has won numerous industry awards and accolades, including Time Magazine’s “Top 10 Gadgets of the Year.”  Sound & Vision said it is “the absolute best gift ever for the audiophile…fundamentally changes how and where we can enjoy great sound…it’s that good!” And CNN said, “So, travelers of all stripes, or any of you looking for a small system for your room or office that can fit in your pocket and go for a good long time on a full charge, this is ultimate gear.”  

For more information, see the Soundmatters site at: www.soundmatters.com.

 About Soundmatters

Soundmatters International, Inc. www.soundmatters.com was founded in 1998 by physicist, former NASA engineer, and audio design legend Dr. Godehard Guenther.  A world-renowned pioneer in the field of audio, Dr. Guenther introduced many firsts to the audio market, including the world’s first in-wall speaker; in-wall subwoofer; component loudspeaker for car hi–fi; switching power supply for car hi–fi; multi–channel car amplifier; hi–fi television monitor; and first complete digital time-delay system for surround sound.  Through Soundmatters, Dr. Guenther is dedicated to developing exceptional performance audio products that enhance, rather than complicate consumer’s lifestyles.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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New Tween Social Networking Website To Launch Today

Today, Everloop, the preeminent online social looping community platform for tweens between the ages of 8 – 13, will be launching in public beta.

The site has created a unique and age-appropriate social media experience for tweens that will allow them to share content, communicate in real-time and collaborate discretely with their friends while online.  They also offer the most comprehensive privacy protection of any social utility on the market and feature a Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)- compliant registration process with advanced behavioral and content moderation technology to protect children from cyber bullying, online predators, griefing, spamming and abuse. You can learn more about the site here: http://www.everloop.com/
  
Hilary DeCesare
Hilary guides the company’s business vision and day-to-day operations.  She is an accomplished entrepreneur, experienced in all aspects of launching and growing a business.  DeCesare recently landed on AlwaysOn’s “2010 Top 25 Women in Tech to Watch.”  She was also honored with the prestigious DEMOgod Award for her presentation on Everloop at the 2010 DEMO Conference for emerging technologies.

Prior to Everloop, Hilary co-founded White Space Ink, a management-consulting firm that specializes in working with start-up technology companies.  During her five-year tenure at White Space, Hilary counseled company executives on all areas of strategic planning and corporate development.

Hilary also spent 10 years working at Oracle Corporation in various sales management positions, winning over 100 sales awards.  She garnered Top Worldwide Account Manager, Top Worldwide Sales Representative, Presidents Club, SWAT Team and was a Member of President Task Force and Review Committee.

Away from the office, Hilary uses her business savvy to teach kids about Internet safety, technology, free enterprise, business and economics. For three years, she served as chapter director for a Northern California chapter of Tweenangels, a division of WiredSafety that teaches kids how to teach other kids about Internet safety.  Hilary also participates on panels about kids online interests and coaches entrepreneurs.

Hilary graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder, with a BA in Psychology
 



All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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Brinno's Digital PeepHole Viewer Is Now Available

A traditional peephole can often be difficult to see through or is positioned too high for a child or someone with physical limitations to access. I wanted to take a moment to tell you about the Digital PeepHole Viewer by Brinno, designed to provide added security and privacy from unwanted visitors.

The Brinno PeepHole Viewer uses a large LCD Panel to display a panoramic digital view from behind your door transforming the typically hard-to-see peephole into a large, bright digital image.

Also, as a way to help prevent against unwanted visitors from seeing inside your home, the digital Peephole Viewer includes added privacy against reverse peephole viewers. Installed in as little as five minutes, the Brinno PeepHole Viewer retails at $99.99 and comes with everything needed for installation in any home, apartment, condo, including two AA batteries, the installation kit, a new    peephole and a locking key. For more information on all of Brinno’s products, please visit www.brino.com.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions. 

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