Young entrepreneur named finalist at Hampshire Business Awards

Business News

Dmitrijs Meiksans, director of The Local Marketing Company Ltd, has been recognised for the second consecutive year since starting his business journey at 16.

His marketing agency provides modern, data-driven marketing solutions to help businesses across Hampshire and beyond reach their target audiences and achieve growth.

Mr Meiksans said: “I am truly honoured to be considered for the Young Business Person of the Year Award once again.

“To be recognised alongside so many talented business leaders in Hampshire is an incredible validation of the hard work and passion that I have put into my business.”

His achievements include managing digital campaigns for a senior Parliamentarian during her re-election campaign, working with a global healthcare recruitment agency to enhance their social media presence, and managing targeted paid advertising campaigns for a national participant recruitment company for medical research studies.

Mr Meiksans has also been involved with local initiatives such as the Pride of Andover Awards and the Test Valley Business Awards, providing complimentary marketing services to ensure these events receive the recognition they deserve.

In addition, he created the Test Valley Young Entrepreneurs Contest, a programme that supports aspiring young entrepreneurs by providing £1,000 in sponsorship and mentorship from established local business leaders.

This initiative has helped a young entrepreneur launch Andover’s first-ever cat café.

Mr Meiksans added: “As a young leader, I believe in the power of mentorship and giving back to the community that has supported my own journey.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive changes that come from empowering others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.”

Balancing the responsibilities of running a business while completing his A-Levels has been one of Dmitrijs’ greatest challenges.

This year, he has managed the complexities of scaling a marketing agency, maintaining academic commitments, and having a personal life.

Mr Meiksans continued: “This year has tested my ability to manage competing demands, but it has also taught me invaluable lessons about leadership, time management, and the importance of adaptability.

“I’ve grown not just as a business owner, but as an individual.”

The Hampshire Business Awards will take place on November 21 at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre.

Watch as Danny Dyer fights, snorts drugs and strips off for raunchy sex scenes in new Marching Powder movie

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

THE trailer for Danny Dyer’s new movie Marching Powder has been released – and it looks like not one to miss. There are plenty of fights, drug taking and raunchy sex scenes in the upcoming film. 6Danny Dyer’s new film trailer has been droppedCredit: True Brit Entertainment6There are plenty of fights in the upcoming filmCredit: True Brit Entertainment6And scenes with drugs in itCredit: True Brit EntertainmentMarching Powder, written and directed by Nick Love, is due to hit our screens in March 2025.The trailer has given a sneak peek on what to expect. It starts with actor Danny, 47, talking to camera with some suspicious substance in his hand – and a group of men fighting in the background. “I’m here to introduce my new film,” Danny says.More on Danny Dyer”It’s a gentle lovely little rom com called marching powder.”He then stops and shouts at the men: “Oi mate, oi mate pipe down,” before sniffing the suspicious substance.Danny then explains what the movie is about.He continues: “The film is about a couple who are trying to save their marriage, it’s under strain because of the husband’s going struggle with drugs and…”However the group behind him carry on arguing, so he goes to shut them up by beating them up. Danny then walks back up to the camera and sarcastically says: “Here’s the trailer for Marching Powder. It’s a beautiful film, very PG.”Danny Dyer begs EastEnders bosses to bring back Mick Carter at NTAsAt the start of the trailer, Danny’s alter-ego Jack Jones can be seen in court, where a judge tells him all the bad things that he has done – including fighting at football, possession of cocaine.He is given six weeks to turn his life around or he’ll end up in prison.Jack says: “I’ve f***ed it. My wife is going to leave me. “I’ve turned my son into a lunatic. My mates think I’m a bore. “My father-in-law is going to f***ing kill me!”He continues: “I know I can become a productive member of society. “I’m going to make her proud.”In another scene Jack picks his son JJ up from school, and the young boy asks him if his mum is having an affair.”She said that if you ever pick me up from school, means she’s either dead or run of with another man,” he confesses.This isn’t the first time that Danny and Nick have worked together on a film. They’ve also joined forces for The Football Factory, The Business, Goodbye Charlie Bright and Outlaw.Undoubtedly, Danny’s performance in The Football Factory is his most memorable to date.Revealing the darker side to “the beautiful game”, the ultra-violent movie follows Chelsea fan Tommy who lives for bloody brawls with ­supporters of rival teams.Even though Danny is once again playing a drug-taking football ­hooligan in Nick’s latest film, Marching Powder, the director insists it is not a ­Football Factory sequel.Nick explains: “It’s not a sequel. It’s a sort of reflection on what it’s like to be slightly washed up and middle-aged and then completely f*** your life up.”People might think it relates to The Football Factory because it’s got Danny Dyer and it is made by me and it has got football violence in it, but that’s where the comparisons sort of finish.Read more on the Scottish Sun“I think the most important thing is that it’s got more comedy.“This is about the disintegration of the relationship and about a wife who’s had enough of her husband acting like a complete c***, from years of sniffing cocaine and fighting at football.”6There are also raunchy sex scenesCredit: True Brit Entertainment6Danny’s alter ego Jack has six weeks to turn his life aroundCredit: True Brit Entertainment6Jack wants to get back on track with his wifeCredit: True Brit Entertainment

Scientists mark 60th anniversary of nuclear program

Science and Health

A museum to commemorate the “Two Bombs and One Satellite”, referring to China’s first atomic bomb, intercontinental ballistic missile and satellite, has been renovated and reopened to public on Oct 16, 2024. [Photo/CCTV News]

Scientists and their families gathered Wednesday at an old rocket research site in Beijing’s Huairou district to commemorate the 60th anniversary of China’s first atomic bomb test and reflect on the historic “Two Bombs and One Satellite” program.
The milestone marked China’s rise as the fifth nation to possess nuclear weapons, following the United States, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom and France.
Hou Jianguo, president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, said the development of the Two Bombs and One Satellite program — encompassing China’s first atomic bomb, hydrogen bomb and satellite — was a monumental effort that required national unity and resilience.
“The success was a great feat achieved through the concerted efforts of the entire country,” Hou said. “Many outstanding scientists answered the call of the Communist Party and the State, working in remote, harsh conditions to forge the spirit of the program.”
Hou Xun, a CAS academician and researcher at the Xi’an Institute of Optics and Precision Mechanics in Shaanxi province, recalled the early challenges workers faced in setting up the program.
The academician was involved in the development of Two Bombs and One Satellite program.
“We had almost no equipment when the institute was first established,” he said. “In Xi’an, there was no gas, so we had to build our own combustible gas supply system from scratch.”
The Yanqi Lake campus of the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, which houses China’s first rocket research and testing base, has preserved key facilities related to the project. This year, the university renovated its memorial hall dedicated to the Two Bombs and One Satellite programs, displaying items such as China’s first satellite and high-speed cameras.
Open to the public since 2015, the hall documents the stories of 17 key figures involved in the program and over 10,000 research and testing personnel. It has welcomed more than 430,000 visitors to date.
Recent additions to the exhibit include manuscripts, clothing worn during historic moments and models of crucial scientific instruments.
Pan Yiyao, a UCAS student and memorial hall guide, emphasized the importance of the legacy.
“The spirit of Two Bombs and One Satellite — love for the motherland, selfless dedication, self-reliance and daring exploration — continues to inspire us as we strive to build a world-class scientific and technological power in the new era,” Pan said.

Scientists mark 60th anniversary of nuclear program

Science and Health

A museum to commemorate the “Two Bombs and One Satellite”, referring to China’s first atomic bomb, intercontinental ballistic missile and satellite, has been renovated and reopened to public on Oct 16, 2024. [Photo/CCTV News]

Scientists and their families gathered Wednesday at an old rocket research site in Beijing’s Huairou district to commemorate the 60th anniversary of China’s first atomic bomb test and reflect on the historic “Two Bombs and One Satellite” program.
The milestone marked China’s rise as the fifth nation to possess nuclear weapons, following the United States, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom and France.
Hou Jianguo, president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, said the development of the Two Bombs and One Satellite program — encompassing China’s first atomic bomb, hydrogen bomb and satellite — was a monumental effort that required national unity and resilience.
“The success was a great feat achieved through the concerted efforts of the entire country,” Hou said. “Many outstanding scientists answered the call of the Communist Party and the State, working in remote, harsh conditions to forge the spirit of the program.”
Hou Xun, a CAS academician and researcher at the Xi’an Institute of Optics and Precision Mechanics in Shaanxi province, recalled the early challenges workers faced in setting up the program.
The academician was involved in the development of Two Bombs and One Satellite program.
“We had almost no equipment when the institute was first established,” he said. “In Xi’an, there was no gas, so we had to build our own combustible gas supply system from scratch.”
The Yanqi Lake campus of the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, which houses China’s first rocket research and testing base, has preserved key facilities related to the project. This year, the university renovated its memorial hall dedicated to the Two Bombs and One Satellite programs, displaying items such as China’s first satellite and high-speed cameras.
Open to the public since 2015, the hall documents the stories of 17 key figures involved in the program and over 10,000 research and testing personnel. It has welcomed more than 430,000 visitors to date.
Recent additions to the exhibit include manuscripts, clothing worn during historic moments and models of crucial scientific instruments.
Pan Yiyao, a UCAS student and memorial hall guide, emphasized the importance of the legacy.
“The spirit of Two Bombs and One Satellite — love for the motherland, selfless dedication, self-reliance and daring exploration — continues to inspire us as we strive to build a world-class scientific and technological power in the new era,” Pan said.

Kirsty’s first children’s book a tribute to her beloved ‘Pepsi’

Arts & Culture, Books

Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565Visit Shots! nowLOCAL author Kirsty Hunt’s very first children’s book ‘The Staffy Sisters’ is dedicated to the memory of her beloved dog ‘Pepsi’.Pepsi stars alongside Kirsty’s current dog, ‘Tino’, as the main characters in the beautifully written book.As well as following the pups’ fun-filled adventures, children will learn valuable life lessons on themes such as kindness, how to deal with bullying and the importance of family and friends.Kirsty, now 23, has been writing since she was 10 years old, and her first book has been a labour of love.Former Lurgan College student ​Kirsty Hunt, with her debut book.She explained: “I have always been absolutely fascinated with stories, books and films since I was no age, writing little stories and plays for my friends and family.“I was known throughout school to have a very creative side and I decided at the age of 14 that writing books was what I wanted to do with my life, career-wise.“I wish to fulfil my dream of being an author that has an audience of both children and adults.”Publishing her first kids’ book has been a proud moment for Kirsty, who revealed that she’s planning to make The Staffy Sisters into a series. And, she is also in the works of writing an adult thriller novel.The borough-based author, who attended Lurgan College, explained how her beloved dog Pepsi had inspired her book.“Pepsi passed away in 2020 and left a huge hole in our hearts. I want children to love Pepsi just as much as we did and make her memory last forever, not just in our hearts but in the hearts of children.“Staffordshire Bull Terriers are a dog breed many would fear, but anyone with a Staffy in their family will know they’re genuinely big sweethearts full of love and utter loyalty.“The books – although humorous and fun – are meant to outline valuable life lessons for growing children from infancy to pre-teen, such as kindness amongst peers, how to deal with bullying and how important family and friends are.“There are different lessons to be learnt in each book and, as the series continues, this will be made quite obvious within their ‘silly’ adventures.“I hope young readers will look forward to their story-times, whether it be at bedtime or within a school setting, as they learn an understanding for values in life, as well as following along on the pups’ fun adventures!“This first book underlines sharing within a group and may be useful for children starting school or those without siblings.“So far, the ratings and feedback have been excellent and I look forward to more people finding the book as a fun way to entertain and help their little ones learn.”The Staffy Sisters can be purchased on Amazon and Kirsty hopes it will soon be available in independent book shops and local libraries.Continue Reading

Rathfriland trio turn passion for country sports into thriving business

Business News

Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565Visit Shots! nowAN entrepreneurial trio from Rathfriland have turned their passion for country sports into a thriving business.Alex Graham, Samantha Millar and Zara Wilkinson launched country clothing brand, Gunner and Hound, in early 2023.The business is based in Rathfriland, with the headquarters and warehouse located at Rathdale House. Whilst not open to the public, this is where they manage all aspects of the operation, from designing the clothing to distribution.The friends and business partners began working on the brand in February last year, and, by March, they were meeting with a clothing manufacturer to bring their ideas to life and produce their first sample.​The Gunner and Hound gilet.“The idea for the business came from a desire to create country clothing that reflected our lifestyle, with a unique twist,” social media manager, Zara, from Ballyroney, explained.“We envisioned incorporating tweed panelling into a gilet, adding a touch of sophistication to a versatile piece that could be worn in multiple settings – whether out in the field, riding horses, working with gundogs, or even heading to the local pub to catch up with friends.“With Alex’s background in competitive clay shooting, and spending every Saturday of the season rough shooting in the field and around the ponds, we knew we had the perfect opportunity to create clothing that resonated with those who share this lifestyle.“We set out to design pieces that we personally loved and were confident others in the country sporting community would appreciate.”The top dog at Gunner and Hound!The Gunner and Hound team design all of their own clothing range, from start to finish, alongside their manufacturers.This includes everything from selecting the materials, creating the designs, and producing mock-ups, to sampling and perfecting each piece.They take inspiration from the classic British country clothing aesthetic, ensuring that every step of the process reflects Gunner and Hound’s commitment to quality and style.“Our target audience is those who embrace the country lifestyle and have a deep connection with the outdoors,” customer manager Samantha explained.​One of the Gunner and Hound branded ¼ zips.“This includes individuals passionate about hunting, gamekeeping, equestrian activities, farming, and other rural pursuits.“We currently stock a range of stylish and practical country clothing, including our signature tweed-panelled gilet, designed for versatility whether in the field, riding, working with gundogs, or out at the local pub.“We’re also excited to launch our new unisex 1/4 zips, incorporating tweed, just in time for Christmas.“Additionally, we’ll be introducing the Heritage Huntress pyjama set, featuring beautiful hand-drawn designs of pheasants, ducks, and cartridges in a dark navy blue, with designs by local artist Amy Stewart.​The Heritage Huntress pyjama set, featuring hand-drawn designs.“Alongside these, we have several other unreleased items launching soon, which we’re incredibly excited about!”Customers can purchase Gunner and Hound products through their exclusive in-store distributor, RoaleX Equestrian and Country Clothing in Fivemiletown, Co. Tyrone, or at John Norris of Penrith in England.Additionally, the full range is available to purchase directly from the online shop at www.gunnerandhound.comSo, who are the people behind the business?Alex’s passion for shooting began at the young age of eight. His love for the outdoors, dogs, and shooting was nurtured from an early age, starting with his first dog, a springer spaniel named Ricky, who was an exceptional all-around gundog.This passion grew as he spent time shooting with his father, eventually leading him to compete in clay shooting at a high level, earning numerous achievements along the way.​The Gunner and Hound team, Samantha, Alex and Zara.Determined to build a career in this field, Alex took a break from working in the family business to spend a year as a gamekeeper in Bushmills, a role he thoroughly enjoyed. However, family obligations called him back to the business, and he had to leave the job behind.Despite this, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own ventures, and from there, he generated enough resources to launch Gunner and Hound.This allowed him to return to his roots and pursue his passion for the country lifestyle.Zara, social media manager, and Samantha, who also handles customer management, work closely together to ensure smooth communication with customers and stockists, thanks to their previous experience as customer advisors.In addition to managing customer relations, the trio all collaborate on designing new clothing pieces, setting brand goals, and showcasing their collections.Each year, they attend The Game Fair in England, the largest country show celebrating the full spectrum of country life.From game foods and hunting traditions to showcasing the essential role dogs play in field sports, The Game Fair is an incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and immerse themselves in the lifestyle that inspires Gunner and Hound.The feedback to Gunner and Hound has been “overwhelmingly positive”.“People have really connected with our designs, especially our unique take on combining style and functionality for the country lifestyle,” Alex explained.“Customers have praised the quality and versatility of our pieces, particularly our Forest Green and Cranberry tweed-panelled gilets, which has proven to be a favourite.“The support and enthusiasm we’ve received so far have validated our vision and given us confidence that we’re meeting the needs of the country sporting community.“The positive reception to our designs has been incredibly encouraging as we continue to grow and develop the brand.”Alex revealed that Gunner and Hound was named in honour of the family’s black Labrador, ‘Gunner’, who was a cherished companion.“Though Gunner has passed, his memory lives on through the brand.“The name also carries a clever dual meaning, symbolising the partnership between hunter and dog – ‘Gunner’ representing the hunter and ‘Hound’ the loyal companion, highlighting the vital role dogs play in game and field sports.”For more information on the brand and to browse the full clothing range, visit the website: www.gunnerandhound.comYou can also follow Gunner and Hound on Facebook and Instagram!Continue Reading

WATCH: BBC releases first trailer for new Wallace & Gromit movie

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

The new trailer gives fans an exciting glimpse into Wallace and Gromit’s latest adventure.

After a recent crime wave of stolen garden goods from across the region, Wallace and his pre-programmed smart gnome, Norbot, are the main suspects.

While Wallace proclaims his innocence, it’s up to Gromit once again to battle sinister forces, or Wallace will never invent again!

[embedded content]

But who could possibly be behind such evil actions?!

Feathers McGraw was last seen in 1993’s BAFTA and Academy Award-winning short The Wrong Trousers, but is now “back with vengeance”.

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl cast

The new Wallace and Gromit movie is set to feature the voices of actors/actresses including:

Ben Whitehead as Wallace

Peter Kay as Chief Inspector Macintosh

Lauren Patel (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, Lloyd of the Flies)

📺 Watch the first teaser trailer for Wallace and Gromit’s long awaited return!Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl is coming to @BBCiPlayer and @BBCOne this ChristmasWatch ➡️ https://t.co/BghJKHUjn4 pic.twitter.com/qGAlhb5PQ9
— BBC Press Office (@bbcpress) October 16, 2024

The film will also feature cameos from:

Diane Morgan (Afterlife, Motherland)

Adjoa Andoh (Bridgerton, Invictus)

Muzz Khan (Brassic, Galavant)

Lenny Henry (Three Little Birds, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power)

Further details of their roles to be revealed soon.

RECOMMENED READING:

When to watch Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl will premiere on BBC iPlayer and BBC One this Christmas. 

Outside the UK it will be available on Netflix from January 3, 2025.

‘The Apprentice’ had ‘A concept of a plan’: Questionable filmmaking undermines solid performances

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

Content warning: sexual assault Making a film that adequately portrays former President Donald J. Trump feels impossible, especially amid this year’s election cycle. Yet, director Ali Abbasi and crew smartly honed in on a very specific and tumultuous time in Trump’s life to create a serviceable biopic that grounds such a larger-than-life figure. 
“The Apprentice” chronicles Trump’s (Sebastian Stan) rise to power and his toxic relationship with one of New York’s most infamously corrupt lawyers: Roy Cohn (Jeremy Strong). 
If there’s one thing that needs to be praised, it’s Sebastian Stan’s remarkable transformation into Trump. Stan never dons Trump’s infamous vocal intonations, instead opting to copy Trump’s cadence, which works remarkably well for a feature film. Around halfway through the movie, you just start seeing Donald Trump.
All of his unique mannerisms, from the silhouette of his hair to how he purses his lips, are captured to perfection. Any lesser actor would have just done a lousy impression, but Stan’s rendition of Trump, in the film’s first half, gives him this distinct layer of humanity, making his eventual transformation all the more bleak.
Strong also performs admirably well and juggles both sides of Cohn’s personality, from the cartoonishly evil to the genuinely pathetic. When the film begins, Strong’s portrayal feels a little over-the-top and comical, with an ever-present “Kubrick stare.” But as the story progresses, Cohn’s persona unravels and Strong becomes a pitiful wreck, as he should.
Technically speaking, “The Apprentice” makes a remarkably bold choice by cropping the frame to a 4:3 aspect ratio and dousing the image in film grain and scan lines. This seemed like an attempt to ground the film’s narrative and remind viewers that these events happened and are rooted in reality. Still, choosing to film with a high-quality digital camera and degrade the footage in post feels woefully cheap. 
One wonders how the film would’ve looked if it had taken an approach akin to Spike Lee’s “Bamboozled” by filming with an actual old-school camera and sparingly using film. This method could have allowed for a much more visually engaging and authentic way to show Trump’s rise in power as he goes from running lousy condominiums to luxurious skyscrapers.
Instead, the film flashes a quick montage and time skips from the late 70s to the 80s, which feels extraordinarily jarring. In five minutes, Stan goes from your typical fish out of water into the Trump we all know. His performance is excellent, but the sudden switch between personas feels rather clumsy and haphazard. In general, the film lacks a lot of subtlety, ultimately preventing it from being truly special.
This lack of nuance comes to a head in one particular scene near the film’s conclusion, which bars it from any sort of recommendation. The scene contains a dramatization of Donald Trump allegedly sexually violating Ivana Trump (Maria Bakalova) in graphic and, quite frankly, horrifying detail. 
Now, any biopic of Donald Trump should explain his extensive history of sexual assault and violence. The film would undeniably feel incomplete without including this aspect of Trump’s life.
But, choosing to actually show it on screen feels exceptionally misguided. Ivana Trump died in 2022, so there’s no way of knowing if she, as the victim, would have approved of her trauma being portrayed on screen for thousands to watch. In essence, the filmmakers, most of whom were male, are actively profiting off of a woman’s assault without a single iota of consent. 
There was absolutely a more nuanced way of delving into Trump’s history of sexual abuse, and all of the filmmakers should feel ashamed that they refused to find it. For a film that aims to criticize Trump and, more broadly, capitalism’s tendency to destroy and disregard people, this failure feels profoundly ironic and ultimately undoes the whole film.

Big Bad Wolf Books’ Guide to Finding the Perfect Gift

Arts & Culture, Books

Manila, Philippines – As the holiday season approaches and the joy of giving fills the air, it’s time to think about gifts that are meaningful, thoughtful, and long-lasting. Big Bad Wolf Books believes that books are the ultimate timeless gift, one that holds infinite value for both the giver and the recipient.

1. Meaningful and Thoughtful 

A book is more than just a gift—it’s a reflection of thoughtfulness. Choosing a book that speaks to your loved one’s needs or interests makes your gift feel extra special. Do they need a good laugh? A little inspiration? Or maybe a thrilling adventure? A well-chosen book shows that you truly know and care about them and that you’ve put real thought into their gift, making it that much more special. 

Furthermore, when you give someone a book, you’re not just giving them an object—you’re offering them an experience, a journey, and a chance to connect with the stories and lessons inside. Books allow you to share something meaningful, whether it’s a childhood favorite that shaped who you are or a powerful story that touched your heart. The joy of giving a book comes from knowing that you’re giving more than a present—you’re giving the gift of imagination, knowledge, and adventure.

2. Timeless Eco-friendly Treasure

Books have a timeless quality, never losing their value or relevance. They aren’t disposable items; instead, they are treasures to collect, or share. Always ready to be picked up, revisited, and appreciated, they leave lasting imprints on our hearts and minds. 

For both children and adults, books are gifts that become cherished treasures, offering knowledge, wisdom, and inspiration that last for years. Whether it’s an epic adventure, an inspiring biography, or a guide to personal growth., books open up endless possibilities. When you give a book, you give a gift that never stops giving.

3. Universal Appeal

With so many genres to choose from, books are a gift for all ages and tastes. From young readers to adults, books are a gift that spans generations. For kids, books spark imagination and teach valuable lessons. For young professionals, they can offer career inspiration, while adults can find wisdom and joy in books that help improve their lives and relationships. Imaginative stories for children, swoon-worthy romances for your besties, empowering self-help books for your go-getter friends—there’s a book for everyone on your list! Plus, Big Bad Wolf Books has over two million titles, so you’re bound to find the perfect match. 

4. Big Bad Wolf’s Mission to Spread the Joy of Reading 

Driven by a strong belief in the power of books, Big Bad Wolf Books is committed to spreading the joy of reading to as many people as possible. Beyond selling books, the organization aspires to make books accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or economic status.

The goal is to promote literacy and foster a love of reading in communities around the world. Big Bad Wolf Books seeks to create a world where books open doors to new opportunities, learning, and growth for all. By partnering with various organizations, Big Bad Wolf Books supports educational programs, donates books to schools and libraries, and empowers readers of all ages.

5. A Gift with Purpose: Books That Change Lives 

Shopping at Big Bad Wolf Books means more than just buying a gift, it’s supporting a movement to make reading accessible for all. Every purchase helps further their mission to provide books to underprivileged communities, promote literacy, and encourage lifelong learning. It’s a gift that delights your loved ones while contributing to a larger cause: nurturing a new generation of readers.

6. Celebrate the Season of Giving with Big Bad Wolf Books 

This Christmas, give gifts that last a lifetime. With Big Bad Wolf’s amazing book sales, finding the perfect gift has never been easier. Whether it’s a magical tale for a child, a motivational read for a friend, or a timeless classic for a family member, there’s a book waiting to make this holiday season truly special. Fill this season of giving with purpose, joy, and the magic of books. 

This Christmas, don’t hesitate! Fill your totes with books that will bring joy, wonder, and lasting memories to everyone on your nice list. 

Not sure what books to get your loved ones? Check out our list below! 

Disney Storybook Collection ADVENT CALENDARThe Wish by Nicholas SparksBadass Habits by Jen SinceroThink and Grow Rich by Napoleon HillThe Nutcracker Illustrated by Margarida Esteves

Drop by the Big Bad Wolf’s Book Sale at the Veranza Activity Center, KCC Mall of GenSan, until October 26. Doors open at 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. As always, admission is free! 

Happy gifting from Big Bad Wolf Books!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)  

Acusensus tech pumps breaks on the ‘fatal five’

Technology

In 2019, the NSW government unveiled a world-first program to crackdown on illegal mobile phone use by drivers. 
In 2021, the Queensland government kicked off a first-of-its-kind seatbelt compliance enforcement technology scheme. 
Soon after, the Western Australian government announced a new platform aiming to enforce speeding, distraction and seatbelt rules for drivers, and a new scheme to crackdown on drivers in bus lanes began in Sydney. 
The landmark programs all had one thing in common: they were powered by Melbourne-based tech firm Acusensus.
Acusensus managing director Alexander Jannink
The startup has created an artificial intelligence-powered multi-function enforcement solution aiming to address the “fatal five” most common causes of road deaths: speeding, impaired driving, failure to wear a seatbelt, driver fatigue and driver distraction. 
These lead to the deaths of 1.19 million people each year around the world. 
Acusensus’ platform can capture high-resolution, prosecutable evidence of illegal driving behaviour 24 hours a day, seven days a week in all weather conditions. This can be done no matter the level of sunlight and glare, with extremely high clarity and without blur up to speeds of 300km/hr. 
The platform can now detect three of the “fatal five”, including speeding, drivers not wearing a seatbelt and drivers being distracted behind the wheel. 
The technology is currently in use across New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and the ACT, and the company has offices in the United Kingdom and United States. 
Acusensus is a finalist in the InnovationAus 2024 Awards for Excellence in the Software Innovation category. The InnovationAus Awards for Excellence winners and finalists will be celebrated at a black-tie gala dinner at The Venue Alexandria in Sydney on Wednesday October 30. You can book your tickets here.
The Software Innovation category is sponsored by TechnologyOne. 
The Acusensus platform was rolled out as part of a program in Western Australia aimed at data collection, and now has 224 deployments across 170 sites in the state. 
In 2019, it was rolled out in NSW to identify the illegal use of mobile phones by drivers. Across the following three years there was a sixfold reduction in the rate of camera-detected mobile phone offences in the state. 
After just six months of the program being in place, the rate of mobile phone offences in NSW fell steadily to 0.3 percent, compared with 1.2 percent earlier. 
The initial trial of this service in NSW, running from January to April 2019, led to the detection of 100,000 drivers using their phones while driving, among 8.5 million vehicles that were checked by the platform. 
The program was made permanent in NSW later that year. 
Early last year Acusensus completed a listing on the Australian Securities Exchange under the ACE ticker. 
Looking for brand exposure in front of Australia’s tech ecosystem? Purchase a table of 10 for the InnovationAus 2024 Awards for Excellence and have your logo displayed on screens across the venue and in the event programme as a ‘Table Sponsor’.  
The InnovationAus 2024 Awards for Excellence are supported by: Australian Computer Society, Investment NSW, Department of Industry, Science and Resources, Technology Council of Australia, TechnologyOne, National Artificial Intelligence Centre, CSIRO’s ON Innovation Program, Reason Group, Q-CTRL, University of New South Wales, South by South West Sydney and IP Australia. 
Protecting your great ideas with intellectual property (IP) rights can lead to lasting benefits for your growing business. IP refers to creations of the mind, such as a brand, logo, invention, design or artistic work. Head to the IP Australia website to find out more about IP, and how it might help your business. 
Do you know more? Contact James Riley via Email.