• Village Gamer

  • IIFA Bollywood Investigation Leads to 142 Charges

15th July 2011

IIFA Bollywood Investigation Leads to 142 Charges

OPPMembers of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Anti-Rackets Branch will be laying 142 charges in connection with violations of the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA).

Between June 23 and June 25, 2011OPP members conducted an investigation into the provision of private security services at the International Indian Film Association (IIFA) “Bollywood” Awards.  A number of business and individuals were found to be in violation of provisions of the PSISA.

Charges will include:

  • 16 counts of working as an unlicensed security guard,
  • 24 counts of employing an unlicensed security guard,
  • 96 counts of licensed agency permit uniform violation,
  • Two (2) counts of selling security guard services no license
  • Four (4) counts of hold out as agency licensed to sell security guard services, and no license.

Two British nationals have been charged with working as unlicensed security guards in relation to close protection security provided to a Bollywood star.

The investigation is linked to on-going enforcement initiatives to ensure provisions of the PSIS Act and Regulations are adhered to within the province of Ontario. The investigation is continuing and further charges are anticipated.

Under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, individuals performing security work in Ontario must be licensed.  Additionally, establishments employing in-house security guards must be registered with the Private Security and Investigative Service Branch.

Business entities selling the services of security guards are required to be licensed by the Ministry of Community safety and Correctional Services (MCSCS) and responsible to ensure their security guards are licensed. Persons convicted of working as unlicensed security guards are subject to a maximum fine of $25,000, under the PSIS Act and up to one year in custody.

Currently 0 Comments - Share Your Thoughts

posted in Events, National News By: | Print This Post Print This Post

15th July 2011

Shaw Movie Club Is Live

Shaw CableThe next step in delivering value and flexibility to customers is here with the Shaw Movie Club, giving Shaw customers access to hundreds of movie titles for only $12 per month as part of Shaw’s ongoing commitment to provide more content on demand.  It is important to note that watching Shaw Movie Club through your TV will not impact your monthly data transfer amount, whereas watching the movies streamed through an internet connection such as your PC, will.

The Shaw Movie Club features unlimited access to hundreds of titles like The Expendables, Burlesque and Red. Unlike similar programs, customers who subscribe to the Shaw Movie Club will have access to newer movie titles that are updated monthly to watch streaming online or directly on your TV.

Customers can also get their Movie Club content in High Definition later this summer. For an additional $5 per month, all titles will be available to customers with the stunning quality of Shaw HD, thanks to the Movie Club HD Pass.

“The Shaw Movie Club is the result of listening to our customers and delivering products that fit their needs and the way they use technology,” said Peter Bissonnette, President, Shaw Communications Inc. “The Shaw Movie Club brings our customers more choice and value – they get the best titles available to enjoy whenever, wherever they want.”

The Movie Club launches on the heels of Shaw’s new Internet packages, which provide customers with dramatically increased data levels and speed. Customers can access the Shaw Movie Club through several platforms:

  • Through the Shaw Gateway – available to Calgary and Edmonton customers, with Vancouver and national dates to follow through the summer
  • Shaw Video On Demand Online – customers can log in with their customer care identification or Shaw email. They can then search for titles available with the Movie Club subscription – a select number of titles are available for streaming online, or to order to their Digital Box
  • Searching for titles on the VOD App for iPhone and Android – search and order titles to customers’ Digital Box to enjoy in the comfort of their own homes

Movie Club can be added to customers’ entertainment packages through the Shaw Plan Personalizer, which enables all customers to customize their home entertainment services by choosing the features they love and want.

Currently 0 Comments - Share Your Thoughts

posted in Business News, Digital Products, National News By: | Print This Post Print This Post

15th July 2011

MicroVolts Races Into Summer With The New Summer Recharge Patch

rock hippo productionsRock Hippo Productions Ltd. has released a “Summer Recharge” patch for its popular online cartoon style third-person action shooter, MicroVolts. The latest patch includes a brand new map, new weapons and all new content for the summer season. A new trailer and screenshots revealed today explore the new map and feature the characters sporting the new weapons, parts and accessories that are now available to players. In addition, MicroVolts is celebrating with its first-ever MicroVolts Clan Tournament, “Clan Clash”, from July 15 – August 11.

MicroVolts is celebrating summer in style with a brand new map, Magic Paper Land and all-new weapons such as the Thunder Grenade Launcher and Hornet Rifle. The “Summer Recharge” patch also includes hot summer items such as a Pink Polka Dot Bikini that is sure to heat up the battlefield! For players looking for even more bonuses and special privileges can check out the new rewards available through the Battery Charge Program. Players who complete certain objectives, such as joining a clan or reaching 100 forum posts, can unlock rewards such as a 30-day Rock Hippo Costume Set or the coveted ability to cast polls and post videos in MicroVolts forums.

You need to a flashplayer enabled browser to view this YouTube video

“MicroVolts continues to be a huge success with its player base and clans reaching new heights. Hundreds of thousands of players and over 2500 clans have already joined the MicroVolts community with thousands more players joining each day,” said Howard He, President and CEO of Rock Hippo Productions. “We don’t want our players to experience any summer boredom, and the MicroVolts team looks forward to bringing the community even more new updates and content in the near future.”

MicroVolts is also hosting the first-ever MicroVolts Clan Tournament, “Clan Clash”, from July 15 – August 11th. Clans will battle it out for a 1st place prize of 18, 000 Rock Tokens and a 7-day Happy Pack accessory item!

MicroVolts will be at Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, August 18-21st! Players are invited to meet the Rock Hippo crew, grab some neat giveaways such as an Alienware gaming mouse and participate in the on-site tournaments! MicroVolts will also be at FanExpo in Toronto, Canada, August 25-28!

MicroVolts features fast paced, third person shooter action and pits players against each other in a secret battle that has been waged and going unnoticed right in our own backyard for years. No one knows for sure when or where the first toy declared war but rumor has it that the uprising began with four original limited edition figures, code-named MicroVolts. Battle lines were drawn when Naomi, Knox, Pandora, and C.H.I.P.-the prototypes-were soon joined by an endless number of modified versions. Now, toy figures around the world are engaged in an all-out war for valuable battery resources and supremacy of the Micro World. All we can do now is stay out of their way and wait for a champion to be declared! Featuring a ton of weapons, inventive character designs, and a huge list of customization features, MicroVolts is destined to invigorate and re-energize the Free2play space.

Game modes include Free for All, Team Deathmatch, Item Match, Capture the Battery, and many more featuring various maps designed by toy concept.

Currently 0 Comments - Share Your Thoughts

posted in National News, New Releases, Shooters, Teen By: | Print This Post Print This Post

15th July 2011

BMO Business Coach Podcast Turns 100

bmoBMO recently launched its 100th Business Coach Podcast, in conjunction with PROFIT Magazine, offering tips to Canada’s entrepreneurs and small business owners with special guests Robert Herjavec of Dragon’s Den, Global Sustainability leader Bruce Poon Tip and Canadian billionaire Michael Lee-Chin.

“BMO takes pride in the quality of advice and services it gives to Canada’s entrepreneurs,” said Cathy Pin, Vice-President, Commercial Banking, BMO Bank of Montreal. “Using new media to better communicate with this demographic is a natural extension of the services we already provide to our customers, at our branches and online.”

The milestone 100th podcast focuses on some notable ‘100s’ that small businesses must prepare for, including the first 100 days of operation, the hiring of the 100th employee and the 100 first investments.

“Across the country, the outlook among business owners is increasingly positive,” said Ms. Pin. “We are encouraged by the increasing number of firms willing and able to invest in their operations and we are glad to provide these business owners the tips and tools they need to continue to grow.”

Noteworthy tips from BMO’s business experts for the big 100s:

First 100 Days: Make sure the doors stay open. At the beginning, it’s tough: in order to ensure your business survives, you have to pass one hurdle, then another one and another one. Make sure you don’t have too long term a view.

First 100 Employees: Too many entrepreneurs hire people that they want to have a beer with or that they can be friends with. But coincidently, those people often have the same skills as you. Don’t stretch your budget without diversifying your employee base.

First 100 Investments: Make sure you are entering into a business that you understand in an industry that you understand. Make sure the industry has long term growth prospects, where the product cycle is long and the cash flow relatively predictable.

Currently 0 Comments - Share Your Thoughts

posted in Business News, National News By: | Print This Post Print This Post

15th July 2011

Ubisoft Adopts Uplay Passport Codes

ubisoftUbisoft has revealed Uplay Passport, a new program designed to provide players with access to bonus content, exclusive offers, and online multiplayer play. Uplay Passport is an adjunct to Uplay, an in-game service that offers gamers extra value, including a bevy of rewards and community features, just for playing Ubisoft games. The Uplay Passport program will begin in the coming months and will be included in many of Ubisoft’s popular core games.

In each new copy of a Uplay Passport-enhanced game will be a one-time use registration code that, when redeemed, provides access to Uplay Passport content and features. The code can be found on the insert card inside the game box. Gamers can identify Uplay Passport-enhanced games by looking for the logo on the back of the box.

Uplay Passports will also be available for purchase on PlayStation®Store for $9.99 and on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft for 800 Microsoft Points. Customers that rent, borrow or purchase a pre-owned game can also purchase a new Uplay Passport online for $9.99 and automatically unlock the game’s online content and features. Starting with the upcoming DRIVER® San Francisco release, games featuring the new Uplay Passport will offer gamers exclusive bonus content plus access to online features.

Currently 0 Comments - Share Your Thoughts

posted in Business News, Digital Products, National News By: | Print This Post Print This Post

15th July 2011

D-Box Nears The Centurion Mark

D-BoxD-BOX Technologies Inc. is now offering its immersive motion technology in more than 90 theatres worldwide with the release of the highly anticipated Warner Bros. Pictures’ franchise finale, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2.

Harry Potter fans across the continent (well, most of it) can expect to be transported back to Hogwarts with Harry and friends while experiencing incredibly realistic motion effects all along the way. Scenes of intense battle and exhilarating flight now come to life as D-BOX MFX Seats pitch, roll and heave in perfect sync with the action taking place onscreen.

This final act is the third film in the series to offer D-BOX motion effects. Locations introducing the D-BOX experience for the first time with Harry Potter, include these theatres:

  • Cobb Theatres Hollywood 16 in Tuscaloosa, Ala.
  • Cobb Theatres Dolphin 19 at Dolphin Mall in Miami, Fla.
  • Cobb Theatres Lakeside 18 in Lakeland, Fla.
  • Regency Theatres Plan 16 in Van Nuys, Calif.
  • ShowBiz Cinemas 12 in Waxahachie, Texas
  • Zurich Cinemas Rotterdam Square Cinema 7 in Schenectady, NY

For a complete list of theatres offering the D-BOX experience with Harry Potter, check out the location map on the D-Box site – sadly, there are only 9 currently-equipped locations across Canada, with none in BC.

Also, for those totally unfamiliar with the D-Box products (because it occurred to me that some of you may not know exactly what D-Box does & as a disclaimer, no, this is not a “promoted post”), they make very special gamer chairs as well, which offer a similar type of gaming experience for titles enhanced with the D-Box MFX technology. Oh and yes, you can get Home Theatre D-Box seating to enhance your own movie nights.

Currently 0 Comments - Share Your Thoughts

posted in Business News, Digital Products, National News By: | Print This Post Print This Post

15th July 2011

Serebra Learning Corporation Reverse Takeover Update

serebraVancouver-based Serebra Learning Corporation has engaged MNP LLP of Vancouver to prepare a valuation report on Blue Drop Inc., to be filed with the TSX Venture Exchange in connection with the proposed business combination between Serebra and Bluedrop. Trading in the company’s shares will remain halted pending engagement of a sponsor and completion of a preliminary review of the proposed transaction by the Exchange.BlueDrop

Earlier this year, Serebra and Blue Drop had announced the creation of a reseller agreement between the two companies, which would see a portion of Serebra’s sales team offering Bluedrop’s Coursepark product to customers. Coursepark is an online learning site that offers individuals access to skills that promote career development, and small businesses a training solution that allows them to build and/or buy courses, and implement, track and manage users’ completion of courses.

“We are very excited about the opportunity to expand our suite of products on offer to current and future clients,” said Taleeb Noormohamed, President and CEO of Serebra. “Coursepark is rapidly becoming a leading global learning site and we are thrilled at the opportunity to help expand its ever-growing user base. It is an excellent complement to Serebra Campus, allowing our sales team a different target market to pursue.”

In addition, Serebra and Bluedrop have negotiated a separate service agreement to have select members of Serebra’s development team provide specialized technical assistance to support Bluedrop’s roadmap for the Coursepark product.

“As we continue to negotiate the terms of a reverse takeover, these reseller and service agreements provide an opportunity to expand our mutual understanding of our products and business models,” added Taleeb.

Currently 0 Comments - Share Your Thoughts

posted in Business News, National News By: | Print This Post Print This Post

15th July 2011

Branding Conference With A Twist Coming To Toronto

she's connectedThe She’s Connected Conference is taking place in Toronto this September 29th and 30th – but you can’t just buy tickets to attend. Instead, attendees are chosen for their digital reach and influence. Last year, 100 women were hand-picked to attend She’s Connected, which is for women who want to work with brands. This year, 200 women will be given tickets and the chance to meet with the people behind the brands.

In a quote on the event’s web site, Founder and CEO Donna Marie Antoniadis explained the philosophy behind She’s Connected, stating “we created the She’s Connected Network four-and-a-half years ago to help you connect with other women and organize your busy life. Now, we’re giving you an opportunity to increase your influence by building relationships with Brands face-to-face.”

The requirements for getting tickets is quite simple, with the basics being that  you are active across all major social networks and have established relationships with other influential women. In addition, you must also meet the following conditions:

  • You are a member of She’s Connected
  • You are Canadian
  • You are extremely active across all social media (Blogs, Twitter, Facebook, etc.)
  • You post frequently on Blogs, Twitter and Facebook
  • You post high quality content
  • You are eager to work with Brands
  • You fit the target demographic our sponsors are looking for

The conference highlights the following opportunities for learning and networking:

  • How to work with digitally connected women: Approaches to maximize your relationships for social reach and benefit
  • Proper disclosure policies: Ensuring that you’re following best practices online to protect your brand
  • The best way to execute product posts and giveaways: Tips and tricks that digital women and brands can benefit from
  • Great interactive sessions with Brands & Women: A chance to get product information out there
  • Lots of networking: Building relationships that will move past the conference
  • Product display in exhibition area: Get products into women’s hands
  • Live tweeting and promotions: Your brand message will be included
  • Foursquare promotions: Drive traffic to your booth

Note that while those chosen to attend the conference are given free admittance, attendees are required to pay their own travel and hotel costs.

Currently 0 Comments - Share Your Thoughts

posted in Contests, Events, National News By: | Print This Post Print This Post

15th July 2011

Incredible Photo Wins CNIB Contest For Tara Miller

cnibThe Canadian National Institute for the Blind has announced that Winnipeg resident Tara Miller is the winner of the organization’s national Eye Remember photo contest. Miller’s stunning photo, entitled “Fortuitous Twilight,” captured the attention of CNIB’s celebrity photographer judges, who were not aware the entrant had any vision problem whatsoever, let alone having only 10 per cent vision in her left eye.

Fortuitous Twilight by Tara Miller

Fortuitous Twilight by Tara Miller

Miller’s photo, which was voted to win by more than 2,000 Canadian users on the contest’s website, was one of 128 submissions by people who are sighted, partially-sighted and blind across the country.
Miller, who began to lose her vision to glaucoma in childhood, says she takes photos by using what little sight she has to plan and frame the shot. Once shooting is complete, she hooks her camera up to a large 27-inch monitor and blows the image up to 200 per cent so she can see the results.

“People with vision loss can do the same things as sighted people, but just in a different way,” says Miller.

As the contest winner, Miller and a guest will be heading to Quebec City, Quebec, later this year for a free weekend hotel stay and an opportunity to explore and photograph the historic city.Tara Miller Photo: CNIB

As a CNIB client who has taken advantage of many of the charity’s rehabilitation services for Canadians with vision loss, Miller says she has learned the skills she needs to live independently despite her blindness. Working one-on-one with CNIB’s specialists, Miller learned to travel on the bus independently, use a computer, and take care of her home and family .

“I am so proud of myself for my abilities and I thank the staff at CNIB for helping me,” says Miller.

Supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Pfizer, CNIB’s Eye Remember photo contest is designed to educate Canadians about the importance of detecting glaucoma early in life and to remember to be proactive about their vision health.

Otherwise known as the “silent thief,” glaucoma usually progresses slowly and painlessly; therefore, it’s possible to have glaucoma without noticing any symptoms or major changes to your eyesight. Glaucoma is the second most common case of irreversible vision loss in seniors and affects more than 250,000 Canadians.

Currently 0 Comments - Share Your Thoughts

posted in Awards, Contests, National News By: | Print This Post Print This Post

15th July 2011

Federal Support Renewed for Just For Laughs Festival

The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, has announced the renewal of the agency’s partnership agreement with the Just for Laughs festival. The popular Montréal festival will thus receive $1,400,000 in non-repayable financial assistance over the next two years.Just For Laughs

“The Government of Canada is pleased to renew its support of Just for Laughs because of the exceptional international exposure and major economic spinoffs this festival brings to the greater Montréal area,” commented Minister Lebel.

Montréal is recognized world-wide for its large-scale cultural events. Every year, the Just for Laughs festival alone draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to the area, generating considerable tourism revenue for the city.

Granted through the Community Diversification program, this financial assistance will serve for the 2011 and 2012 promotion and commercialization of the festival on domestic and foreign markets. This support will allow the cultural event to further consolidate the enviable position it already occupies on the international stage.

 

Currently 0 Comments - Share Your Thoughts

posted in Events, Government, National News By: | Print This Post Print This Post

  • Archives

  • Subscribe to our Newsletter


  • Select a list:

  • GWEN Radio
  • Gamers Giving Back