Tagged: Uniquely Toronto
Ford Flexes its Muscle at the 2016 Canadian International AutoShow
Ford Flexes its Muscle in the Ford Performance Zone
Ford is packing a lot of horsepower into a small space
TORONTO, ONT. (Feb. 8, 2016) — Driving innovation through performance, Ford is flexing its muscles at the 2016 Canadian International AutoShow.
With a plan to bring 12 new performance vehicles to the global market by 2020, Ford is bringing a unique collection of six of its performance vehicles to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre that is sure to get the blood flowing of any car enthusiast.
“This is a supercharged exhibit that is packing plenty of horsepower into a small space,” says Jim Hartford, Vice President of Marketing for Ford of Canada. “The Ford Performance Zone is a must-see at this year’s AutoShow.”
The highlights of the Ford Performance Zone are most certainly the cars:
The ALL NEW 2017 Ford GT (which had its Canadian reveal at the 2015 AutoShow)
2017 F150 Raptor
2016 Shelby GT350R
Focus RS
Focus ST
Fiesta ST
Complementing this incredible roster of vehicles is four Forza racing simulators, the Ford Raptors photobomb activation, two basketball nets over the AutoShow Opening/NBA All-Star Weekend and a customer lounge including charging stations for your devices.
Toronto Raptors coach Dwane Casey will also be hand to help Ford open the 2016 Canadian International AutoShow on Feb. 12.
The Ford Performance Zone can be found on the 800 level in the South Building of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
>Ford GT
Ford’s all-new GT is an ultra-high performance supercar that serves as a technology showcase for top EcoBoost® performance, aerodynamics and lightweight carbon fibre construction. The GT is the ultimate Ford performance vehicle – a mid-engine, aerodynamic, two-door coupe. The GT is powered by Ford’s most powerful 3.5-litre EcoBoost production engine, a next-generation twin-turbo that produces more than 600 horsepower. The ultra-high-performance supercar is Ford’s most extreme offering, infused with race-proven technology. Final assembly of the Ford GT will be coordinated by Multimatic in Toronto, at their purpose-built low-volume assembly facility.
Please be sure to visit autoshow.ca for more information. Follow us on Instagram @cdnintlautoshow, Like us on Facebook and join the conversation on Twitter @autoshowcanada with the hashtags #YourMove and #CIAS2016.
The Canadian International AutoShow will be held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre between February 12th and 21st.
About the Canadian International AutoShow
With more than 650,000 square feet of exhibits, displays and attractions at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, the Canadian International AutoShow is not only the largest automotive expo in Canada, it is also the country’s largest consumer show. Boasting more than 1,000 cars, trucks, SUVs, concept cars, exotics, classics, motorcycles and alternative energy vehicles, the AutoShow is a leader in lifestyle, technology and all things automotive. For more information or to buy tickets, please visit www.autoshow.ca.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice. Any offers mentioned in this post are also subject to change without notice. All photos of the Ford GT are courtesy of FORD
Latest version of Windows 10 may have a Linux subsystem secretly installed inside.
Linux Penguin called Tux By Larry Ewing, Simon Budig, Anja Gerwinski
“Renowned Windows Hacker and computer expert, who goes by the name ‘WalkingCat’, discovered that the latest version of Windows 10 may have a Linux subsystem secretly installed inside.”
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. Many moons ago I had worked with someone named “Wang Wei”, not sure if it was the same person as the author of The Hackers News post
Photos of the Auto Exotica which will be at the Canadian International AutoShow
This post is a continuation of the prior post. Two smaller posts load faster than one huge post.
Auto Exotica, a fan favourite attraction returns to the Canadian International AutoShow.
The world’s most exclusive automotive brands in the world have made Auto Exotica, presented by Castrol, one of the most popular attractions at the Canadian International AutoShow.
Pfaff Motors
1996 McLaren F1 GTR
Making its debut at a Canadian auto show, this car is a piece of motorsports history. It is the racing version of the McLaren F1 road car, which was for more than 20 years the world’s fastest production car and the first street car with a full carbon fibre chassis. Powered by a spectacular BMW V12, a shade more than 100 McLaren F1s were made. The most recent McLaren F1 sold at auction was a road car that fetched more than $13 million, making this the most expensive car at the 2016 AutoShow. The F1 GTR won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1995, and the car coming to Toronto placed third in the endurance race in 1995.
McLaren 570S
The first time a McLaren 570S has been seen at a Canadian auto show, it is at the top of the range. It is the ultimate sports car experience, with unique body styling, including the Sport Aero Pack with new rear diffuser, front splitter and side skirts and an even more driver-focused chassis.
McLaren 650S
Uncompromised design, luxury interior and innovative engineering, the McLaren 650S has pin-up poster looks to match its breathtaking performance. With a 3,400 cc twin turbo V8, it will reach a top speed of 333 kilometres per hour, and will crack 100 km/h in three seconds.
Grand Touring Autos
Bentley GT Speed Convertible
As the fastest Bentley convertible, the new Continental GT speed convertible is a worthy successor. Drive it with the hood down and a new dimension is revealed. You’re no longer an observer of the passing landscape but a part of it, with every aspect of your journey amplified in the open air.
Rolls Royce Wraith
Power, performance, prestige. Wraith is not only the most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce ever built, it is also the most powerful. This is a car for the curious, the confident and the bold. Outstanding performance is married with exuberant luxury, all delivered in a style that exudes a sense of glamour and poise. Every aspect of the car’s purposeful design creates an alluring sense of the noir and earns the enigmatic name, Wraith.
Rolls Royce Dawn
Inspired by the iconic Silver Dawn of the 1950s, the DAWN provides the perfect blend of sophistication and true freedom. Infused with a youthful spirit and vivacious energy, this inspiring motor car harnesses an exacting balance of power and possibility that heralds a brand new beginning. The strikingly elegant design of DAWN can transform perfectly to complement its environment. A single touch reveals expansive vistas and a world of infinite opportunities. Awaken your senses and experience what automotive writers worldwide have heralded as the “sexiest Rolls-Royce ever built.” The Dawn will only be at the AutoShow for Media Preview Day on February 11th.
Aston Martin DB9 GT
The Aston Martin DB9 GT is the most elegant expression of a sports gran touerer. Its DNA echoes the iconic DB GT models of its lineage. Enhanced power and subtle new touches highlight its famously seductive styling, making the DB9 GT the ultimate incarnation of DB9. It is the embodiment of faultless form and formidable function, the beating heart of Aston Martin.
Lamborghini Huracan Coupe
In this car, every detail in terms of technology innovation was designed to achieve one, single goal: to make you experience the real fun in driving. Specific driving mode calibration, developed to deliver the most entertaining driving experience. Dedicated steering setup, specific for improved agility.
Range Rover Sport SVR
Range Rover Sport truly justifies the ‘S’ in SUV. Taking the marque to another level, it is the most agile, dynamic and responsive Land Rover ever. Designed and engineered to meet the needs of today, it is equally at home in the city, the back of beyond or powering down to autobahn.
Jaguar F-Type Coupe R
The F-Type offers a range of supercharged engines to suit even the most power hungry. And now, for true sport car purists, an optional manual transmission that gives you more control than ever. Careful, all this power may go to your head.
Maserati
Ghibli S Q4
The exterior of the Maserati Ghibli S Q4 was envisioned to offer a unique marriage of elegance and sportscar verve, drawing on the best Maserati design tradition. The starting point for its sleek silhouette is the distinctive front end, defined by the prominent Maserati grille with concave vertical fillets. Powered by a 3.0L V6 that pumps out 404 horsepower, this sleek sports sedan is sure to turn heads.
Quattroporte S Q4
An automobile of extreme beauty, the Maserati Quattroporte S Q4 is an all-wheel drive beauty that possesses sleek and dynamic lines. The traditional Maserati grille, with its vertical slats, is a modern take on the GranTurismo’s front grille and those of other Maserati classics from the past. The eye is drawn over the imposing engine hood and new LED daytime-running lights, aesthetic details that reflect an elegant and forward-thinking design. This Quattroporte features exclusive Ermenegildo Zegna specially fashioned interior trim package. Designed in collaboration with the legendary Italian fashion brand, these silk interiors are specially outfitted and woven, much like a fine Italian suit.
GranTurismo MC
The refined design of the Maserati GranTurismo MC represents the ideal synthesis of aerodynamics and style. The marque’s distinctive radiator grill, prominently positioned between two distinctive headlamps, is topped by the long, carbon fiber engine hood with its aggressive central air intake and two side air vents, derived from those used on the race-track prepared GranTurismo MC Trofeo.
Pagani Huayra
Nicknamed “Ella”, the bright blue Pagani Huayra boasts a 730-horsepower hand-built AMG twin turbo V12, but also has the most exquisite custom luggage you will ever see. You may have seen this beauty in the Pfaff Motors cinema commercial, it features all of the latest updates including a new front splitter design.
Porsche 911
This classic Porsche is a Canadian auto show premier of a vehicle restored by Singer Vehicle Design. The Singer brand is a celebration of Porsche’s genius and each restoration begins with a customer’s car and repatriates the 911 chassis of the early ‘90’s with the most beautiful Ferdinand “Butzi” Porsche coachwork from 1964. The goal is to preserve a moment in time for the owner and capture a snapshot of the air-cooled period of the Porsche 911. The final restoration, a work of pure craftsmanship, takes more than 4,000 hours to complete.
Tesla
Model S
Tesla’s advanced electric powertrain delivers exhilarating performance. Unlike a gasoline internal combustion engine with hundreds of moving parts, Tesla electric motors have only one moving piece: the rotor. As a result, Model S acceleration is instantaneous, silent and smooth. Step on the accelerator and in as little as 3.0 seconds Model S is traveling 100 km per hour, without hesitation, and without a drop of gasoline. Model S is an evolution in automobile engineering.
Ferrari
2016 Ferrari California T
The California T, while a masterful modernization of the 2008 California also retains every essence of the legendary Ferrari DNA. The new turbocharged Ferrari V8 engine, a result of painstaking craft and cutting edge innovation is now back at the heart of our latest piece of artistry. Capable of razor sharp responsiveness, blistering performance with an exhilarating soundtrack, backed by turbo technology, it is in every respect a classic Ferrari engine. The re-innovated California T is a car worthy of any automobile aficionado or a discerning client seeking a majestically comfortable daily drive.
1972 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS
The Dino 246 GT was an evolution of the Dino 206 GT, with a larger V6 engine and a wheelbase lengthened by 60 mm. With the sales of the Dino 246 GT stable, Ferrari looked to increase its popularity still further by introducing an open version. The 246 GTS made its debut at the 1972 Geneva Motor Show and reactions were immediately very positive. The styling retained the individual, attractive lines of the 264 GT, with the added advantage of a practical targa top for open-air driving.
Auto Exotica returns to the Canadian International AutoShow
Live the Dream with Auto Exotica
Fan favourite attraction returns to Canadian International AutoShow
TORONTO, Ont. (February 5, 2016) — The smooth asphalt of a curvy road through rural fields, a sleek car, low to the ground, hugging the twists and speeding along the straightaways as the hum of a V12 engine breaks the idyllic countryside silence.
The world’s most exclusive automotive brands in the world complete this dream scene, and they have also made Auto Exotica, presented by Castrol, one of the most popular attractions at the Canadian International AutoShow.
“The attraction of Auto Exotica is that it is about so much more than just the cars,” says Jason Campbell, General Manager of the AutoShow. “It’s a feature on class and sophistication, the lifestyle of our dreams.”
With a lineup that boasts Ferrari, Maserati, Aston Martin, Lamborghini, Bentley, Rolls Royce, McLaren, Pagani, Lotus, Jaguar, Range Rover and Tesla, Auto Exotica is a chance to live the dream, if only for a little while.
Auto Exotica will feature the most expensive car to grace the Show floor this year, a McLaren F1 GTR race car with an estimated value in excess of $15 million.
In keeping with the refined atmosphere of the exhibit, the soundtrack for the peek at these elite vehicles will be supplied by twice daily performances from young pianists and Steinway artists in the new for 2016 Steinway Lounge – a relaxation area in the heart of Auto Exotica that will become a licensed establishment after 5 pm daily. When there are no live performances, atmospheric music will be provided by Steinway’s Spirio, an innovative self-playing piano with a catalogue of performances by world-class Steinway artists.
Auto Exotica can be found on the 100 level of the North Building at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
Please be sure to visit autoshow.ca for more information. Follow us on Twitter @autoshowcanada and join the conversation with the hashtag #YourMove. Like us on Facebook and check us out on Instagram.
The Canadian International AutoShow will be held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre between February 12th and 21st.
Our next post will feature images of the luxury cars of AutoExotica at the 2016 Canadian International AutoShow.
About the Canadian International AutoShow
With more than 650,000 square feet of exhibits, displays and attractions at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, the Canadian International AutoShow is not only the largest automotive expo in Canada, it is also the country’s largest consumer show. Boasting more than 1,000 cars, trucks, SUVs, concept cars, exotics, classics, motorcycles and alternative energy vehicles, the AutoShow is a leader in lifestyle, technology and all things automotive. For more information or to buy tickets, please visit www.autoshow.ca.
Artist Shirley Mpagi creating Art at Harbourfront’s Kuumba Festival – Feb 05 2016
Artist Shirley Mpagi creating Art at Harbourfront’s Kuumba Festival – Feb 05 2016
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner
“Tina S” covers “The Trooper” originally by Iron Maiden
Can’t get enough of the Guitar Virtuoso “Tina S“.
In this video Tina S cover the Iron Maiden song titled “The Trooper“.
Video is courtesy of the Tina S YouTube channel
Click on this line to view all our other posts featuring Tina S.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner.em>
Cars & Stars. From the Movie Screen to the AutoShow
We’ve seen them in movies and on television, and now will have the chance to see them in real life at the 2016 Canadian International AutoShow.
The Cars & Stars exhibit at the AutoShow will feature a stable of vehicles made famous by celebrity owners or simply by their standout appearances on TV, on film or across pop culture.
Fans of the Food Network’s Diners, Drive Ins & Dives will no doubt recognize celebrity chef host Guy Fieri, and are also likely aware that he is a serious car collector. The AutoShow is excited to showcase his yellow 1969 Chevrolet Corvette, one of the newest additions to his personal fleet. Not only will this car be at the AutoShow, but it will be near a coffee bar where you can enjoy some of Fieri’s Single Cup Coffee.
In some movies, the cars can be just as memorable as the actors on screen. Like ‘Eleanor,’ the memorable 1971 Mustang Mach 1 Sportsroof — dressed up to look like a 1973 Mustang — that was tearing up the streets in the original Gone in 60 Seconds film from 1974.
Two cars from the garage of Canadian electronic musician deadmau5 will be on hand, including his infamous “Purracan” — a Lamborghini Huracan overlaid with a Nyan Cat theme by Sekanskin — and a McLaren P1.
The final weekend of the AutoShow will also feature the unveiling of a surprise car skin by the Mississauga-based Sekanskin.
The social media sensation #Selfie car — a flashy Lamborghini popularized through the automotive social networking site Madwhips — will also be on hand at Cars & Stars courtesy of the Blacklist Rally. Blacklist is a 2,000-kilometre, five-day rally through 45 cities across two countries for 75 teams of high performance sports cars. The winner is crowned King and/or Queen of the BlackList.
Renowned automobile auction house Barrett-Jackson, which has a full roster of cars and trucks that have appeared on screen up for sale, will be featuring two cars in Cars & Stars, marking the opening of its new auction house in Connecticut and about two weeks removed from its biggest auction of the year, held in Scottsdale, Ariz., at the end of January.
Cars & Stars can be found on the 700 level in the South Building of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
Please be sure to visit autoshow.ca for more information. Follow us on Twitter @autoshowcanada and join the conversation with the hashtag #YourMove. Like us on Facebook and check us out on Instagram.
The Canadian International AutoShow will be held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre between February 12th and 21st.
About the Canadian International AutoShow
With more than 650,000 square feet of exhibits, displays and attractions at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, the Canadian International AutoShow is not only the largest automotive expo in Canada, it is also the country’s largest consumer show. Boasting more than 1,000 cars, trucks, SUVs, concept cars, exotics, classics, motorcycles and alternative energy vehicles, the AutoShow is a leader in lifestyle, technology and all things automotive. For more information or to buy tickets, please visit www.autoshow.ca.
Backgrounder
Sekanskin
Stock is boring; change is good. It can be demoralizing to be driving along in your new exotic vehicle, only see another one on the street that looks exactly the same. Founded by Tiago Texieria three years ago, Sekanskin specializes in customized vinyl car skins that help people personalize their vehicles and make them truly stand out above the crowd. At the Canadian International AutoShow, Sekanskin will be doing a live daily demonstration of the best in the business at work, showing how to work with vinyl with the right tools and experienced techniques when going from stock colours to a custom skin. Learn more at sekanskin.com.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice. Any offers mentioned in this post are also subject to change without notice. We thank the Canadian International Autoshow for providing the above info
Connected Automobile: A glimpse into the future of driving
Ontario government to host panel on connected cars, autonomous vehicles
TORONTO, ONT. (Feb. 4, 2016) — The automotive industry has emerged as a leader when it comes to technology and innovation.
Manufacturers are revolutionizing the way we drive and interact with our vehicles, while technology companies are developing new apps and services that are changing the way we get around.
On Friday, Feb. 12, Industry Day at the Canadian International AutoShow will feature a new conference segment called Connected Automobile, presented by the Ontario government, partnered with the Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association (APMA).
Connected Automobile will provide attendees with a glimpse into the future of driving, with panel discussions on the latest in automotive technology, from connected cars to autonomous vehicles to modern infrastructure and factories of the future. The agenda will feature speakers from General Motors, Audi, Blackberry, IHS Automotive, NRC, TE Connectivity, Pravala Networks, City of Stratford and the Province of Ontario.
“With its leadership among North American auto-producing jurisdictions and an information technology cluster second only to Silicon Valley, Ontario is ideally positioned to lead the development and manufacturing of the connected and autonomous vehicles of tomorrow,” says Brad Duguid, Minister of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure. “As the first Canadian province to allow on-road testing of automated vehicles, we are providing extra impetus to this pioneering R&D work.”
AutoShow guests and Industry Day insiders will be able to discover more about what’s being done in the Canadian landscape in this interactive display space on level 800 of the South Building.
The Agenda for the Industry Day can be found by HERE.
There is no cost to participate, but you must register in advance and seating is limited. To REGISTER for this event, CLICK HERE.
For more information on the 2016 Canadian International AutoShow, please visit autoshow.ca. Follow the Canadian International AutoShow on Twitter @autoshowcanada and join the conversation with the hashtags #CIAS2016 and #YourMove. Like us on Facebook and check us out on Instagram.
The Canadian International AutoShow will be held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from Feb. 12-21, 2016.
About the Canadian International AutoShow
With more than 650,000 square feet of exhibits, displays and attractions at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, the Canadian International AutoShow is not only the largest automotive expo in Canada, it is also the country’s largest consumer show. Boasting more than 1,000 cars, trucks, SUVs, concept cars, exotics, classics, motorcycles and alternative energy vehicles, the AutoShow is a leader in lifestyle, technology and all things automotive. For more information or to buy tickets, please visit www.autoshow.ca.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice. Any offers mentioned in this post are also subject to change without notice. We thank the Canadian International Autoshow for providing the info above.
Consumers have filed a Class Action Lawsuit against Seagate Technologies LLC
Public Domain photo of Hard Drive by Ariadne Ariadnerb avaiable at http://www.publicdomainpictures.net
On Feb 02 2016 Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP ( a class-action litigation firm ),
representing purchasers of certain Seagate 3TB Hard Disk Drives,
have filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California a Class Action Lawsuit against Seagate Technologies LLC.
CASE NUMBER: 5:16-cv-00523
COURT: U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California
Steve W. BermanJeff and D. Friedman
“If you purchased Seagate’s Barracuda 3TB Hard Disk Drive, Backup Plus 3TB External Hard Disk Drive or another Seagate hard drive with model number ST3000DM001, you may be entitled to damages including replacement costs and damages from loss of data and data recovery expenses.”
Click on this line to read the PetaPixel article about said Class Action filing.
Click on this line to read the Tech Spot article about the same Class Action filing.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice.
“Black Dog” performed Live by Led Zeppelin, in New York City in 1973
This is a video of Led Zeppelin performing Black Dog, in 1973.
That is just four short years since their performance on Danish TV in 1969. Huge change in Led Zeppelin‘s stage presence. Also gone, is Jimmy Page‘s Fender Telecaster guitar and in it’s place he plays a Gibson Les Paul.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner.
Jimmy Page discusses how Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway To Heaven” was written.
Jimmy Page gives insights into the creation of “Stairway To Heaven” by Led Zeppelin.
Video is courtesy of the BBC News YouTube channel
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner.
“Time” does not exist.
Copyright 2016 Vincent Banial
Feel free to share under Creative Commons License with attribution to Vincent Banial
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Zika update – WHO announces a Public Health Emergency of International Concern
WHO announces a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
The International Health Regulation Emergency Committee agreed that a causal link between this cluster and Zika virus disease is strongly suspected.
1 February 2016 — WHO announced today that the recent cluster of neurological disorders and neonatal malformations reported in the Americas region constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. This comes after the International Health Regulation Emergency Committee agreed that a causal link between this cluster and Zika virus disease is strongly suspected. It constitutes an “extraordinary event” and a public health threat to other parts of the world.
Looks like someone did let the Jinn (Genie) out of the bottle. This will not end well, as Jinn’s become rather upset when you disturb them.
Just because we can play with Genetics, does not mean that we should. Genetically Modified Human embryos have supposed been grown in labs. That can lead to untold Horrors being unleashed.
Just because my old Blonde Italian Girlfriend could do a tad over 190 MPH did not mean that I would take the Ferrari F430 for a spin on the Gardiner Expressway or on Highway 401 (Toronto Highways) at 190 MPH. Just because you can, does not mean that you should.
The following Zika Virus factsheet is courtesy of the World Health Organization (WHO) and it can be found at http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/zika/en/
Zika virus
Key facts
- Zika virus disease is caused by a virus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.
- People with Zika virus disease usually have a mild fever, skin rash (exanthema) and conjunctivitis. These symptoms normally last for 2-7 days.
- There is no specific treatment or vaccine currently available.
- The best form of prevention is protection against mosquito bites.
- The virus is known to circulate in Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific.
Introduction
Zika virus is an emerging mosquito-borne virus that was first identified in Uganda in 1947 in rhesus monkeys through a monitoring network of sylvatic yellow fever. It was subsequently identified in humans in 1952 in Uganda and the United Republic of Tanzania. Outbreaks of Zika virus disease have been recorded in Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific.
- Genre: Flavivirus
- Vector: Aedes mosquitoes (which usually bite during the morning and late afternoon/evening hours)
- Reservoir: Unknown
Signs and Symptoms
The incubation period (the time from exposure to symptoms) of Zika virus disease is not clear, but is likely to be a few days. The symptoms are similar to other arbovirus infections such as dengue, and include fever, skin rashes, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise, and headache. These symptoms are usually mild and last for 2-7 days.
During large outbreaks in French Polynesia and Brazil in 2013 and 2015 respectively, national health authorities reported potential neurological and auto-immune complications of Zika virus disease. Recently in Brazil, local health authorities have observed an increase in Zika virus infections in the general public as well as an increase in babies born with microcephaly in northeast Brazil. Agencies investigating the Zika outbreaks are finding an increasing body of evidence about the link between Zika virus and microcephaly. However, more investigation is needed before we understand the relationship between microcephaly in babies and the Zika virus. Other potential causes are also being investigated.
Transmission
Zika virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito from the Aedes genus, mainly Aedes aegypti in tropical regions. This is the same mosquito that transmits dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever.
Zika virus disease outbreaks were reported for the first time from the Pacific in 2007 and 2013 (Yap and French Polynesia, respectively), and in 2015 from the Americas (Brazil and Colombia) and Africa (Cape Verde). In addition, more than 13 countries in the Americas have reported sporadic Zika virus infections indicating rapid geographic expansion of Zika virus.
Diagnosis
Zika virus is diagnosed through PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and virus isolation from blood samples. Diagnosis by serology can be difficult as the virus can cross-react with other flaviviruses such as dengue, West Nile and yellow fever.
Prevention
Mosquitoes and their breeding sites pose a significant risk factor for Zika virus infection. Prevention and control relies on reducing mosquitoes through source reduction (removal and modification of breeding sites) and reducing contact between mosquitoes and people.
This can be done by using insect repellent; wearing clothes (preferably light-coloured) that cover as much of the body as possible; using physical barriers such as screens, closed doors and windows; and sleeping under mosquito nets. It is also important to empty, clean or cover containers that can hold water such as buckets, flower pots or tyres, so that places where mosquitoes can breed are removed.
Special attention and help should be given to those who may not be able to protect themselves adequately, such as young children, the sick or elderly.
During outbreaks, health authorities may advise that spraying of insecticides be carried out. Insecticides recommended by the WHO Pesticide Evaluation Scheme may also be used as larvicides to treat relatively large water containers.
Travellers should take the basic precautions described above to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
Treatment
Zika virus disease is usually relatively mild and requires no specific treatment. People sick with Zika virus should get plenty of rest, drink enough fluids, and treat pain and fever with common medicines. If symptoms worsen, they should seek medical care and advice. There is currently no vaccine available.
WHO response
WHO is supporting countries to control Zika virus disease through:
- Define and prioritize research into Zika virus disease by convening experts and partners.
- Enhance surveillance of Zika virus and potential complications.
- Strengthen capacity in risk communication to help countries meet their commitments under the International Health Regulations.
- Provide training on clinical management, diagnosis and vector control including through a number of WHO Collaborating Centres.
- Strengthen the capacity of laboratories to detect the virus.
- Support health authorities to implement vector control strategies aimed at reducing Aedes mosquito populations such as providing larvicide to treat standing water sites that cannot be treated in other ways, such as cleaning, emptying, and covering them.
- Prepare recommendations for clinical care and follow-up of people with Zika virus, in collaboration with experts and other health agencies.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice.
Was Zika outbreak caused by release of genetically modified mosquitoes in Brazil?
This is a major Big Deal.
Photo is courtesy of PublicDomanPictures.net. Public Domain no License required.
If they have in fact released the Genie out of the bottle, then there could be Hell to pay.
Click on this line to read the full article posted on the MIRROR website.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
http://www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice. Any opinions on the origin of the Zika outbreak are not our own, as we no opinion as yet. Please read the article posted on the Mirror site and watch their site for any and all updates on the Zika outbreak. Photo of the Mosquito is from PublicDomainPictures.net and is listed as being in the Public Domain, hence no license is required.
The Mother of a Heart Donor, meets the man with her Son’s Heart
The Mother of a Heart Donor, meets the Man with her Son’s Heart.
Organ Donation can and does save lives. To the Mother. Father, Sister and Brother of the Organ Donor, it must be incredible to meet the person who received the donated organ.
This Mother got to listen to her now dead Son’s Heart beating and keeping another Human Alive. In a way the person who received that donated Heart, also received a 2nd Mother.
Video is courtesy of the Portland Press Herald YouTube channel.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner.
Led Zeppelin live on Danish TV in 1969
Click on this line to view the YouTube video of “Led Zeppelin live on Danish TV in 1969” posted on the Jean Bonini YouTube channel.
A vintage video featuring four songs. Led Zeppelin changed their name from the New Yardbirds to Led Zeppelin in 1968. So this is how great the band was, only one years after they official became Led Zeppelin.
Interesting to see Jimmy Page playing a Fender Telecaster.
This video also includes John Bonham on Drums.
Memories on a passing breeze. Hope that you enjoy this blast from the past.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner.
2016 Canadian International AutoShow Metro Toronto Convention Centre Feb 12 – Feb 21, 2016
The 2016 edition of the annual Canadian International AutoShow is coming back to Toronto on Feb 12 and will run till Feb 21.
Many moons ago this show was held up by Pearson Airport at The Interational Centre. It grew too big and was moved to the the new Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Now it has grown to occupy both the Main South building ( 222 Bremner Blvd) and also the North Building located at 255 Front St. West.
Castrol will be presenting “Auto Exotica“. Some of the World’s Fastest and most Exotic Automobiles will be on display. The 2016 Auto Exotica will be located at Level 100 of the North Building of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
“Art and the Automobile” presented by the Cobble Beach Concours d’Elegance, invites you to view the Automobile as Art. This exhibit will be located at Level 700 in the South Building of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
Castrol will also present their “Cars & Stars” exhibit on Level 700 of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, South Building.
The Indy 500 exhibit will feature a unique collection that showcases some of the iconic vehicles that have raced at Indy 500 since 1911.
Kreater Custom Vehicles will exhibit Customer Hot Rods and Choppers. They will also be building a customer Chopper live during the show.
The “Street Tuners” exhibit will be located at Level 700 of the South Building of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Not your typical Street Tuners. These will be high end and exotics.
The above is the tip of the Automotive Iceberg. So much to see and do, at the 2016 edition of the annual Canadian International AutoShow.
WHEN
Starts Feb 12 and run thru Feb 21 2016
Hours
Feb. 12 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Feb. 13 – 20 10:30 am – 10:00 pm
Feb. 21 10:30 am – 6:00 pm
You can pre-order your show tickets. Just click on this line to visit the Official Website of the Canadian International AutoShow. You can order your tickets directly from their website.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice. Any offers mentioned in this post are also subject to change without notice.
US Navy sent a Destroyer near disputed islands in the South China Sea
China lays claims to pretty much all of the South China Sea. The Chinese Ambassador to the USA stated, that sending the US Navy Destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur to violate Chinese Law was a “very serious provocation, politically and militarily“.
![By U.S. Navy, Chief Photographer’s Mate Mahlon K. Miller [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons](https://uniquelytoronto.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/512px-uss_curtis_wilbur_ddg-54_1999.jpg?w=830)
Photo by U.S. Navy, Chief Photographer’s Mate Mahlon K. Miller [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Please click on the link below to read the full New York Times article about this misadventure.
Why upset America’s apparent Chinese Friends?
Why do this when the Stock Markets have been in turmoil since the start of 2016?
Watch your Sell Stops carefully. It’s is this kind childish pinching of someone which could end up causing someone to get a black eye. A military skirmish between the USA and China, could tank World Stock Markets in my honest opinion.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice. We thank the New York Times for providing a Perma Link to their article and for allowing us to share it
“Randy Rhoads” Master of the Guitar
“Randy Rhoads” was an amazing Guitarist. He played a large part in the success of the band Black Sabbath.
Video s courtesy of the showsjohn YouTube channel
Video is courtesy of the Damage, Inc. YouTube channel
Randy Rhoads was killed in a private plane crash, in 1982. He was buried at Mountain View Cemetery.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice.
“Leila Dora” Creating the Mandala Wall Mural at the Trilogy Sanctuary
Extraordinary.
I sat in awe while watching Leila Dora,
creating her Mandala Wall ART at the Trilogy Sanctuary.
Video courtesy of the Dora Whitehead YouTube channel. Music by Goldfrapp Crystalline Green & Tiptoe
Leila Dora you are stunningly amazing !
Force 1 V10 an all new American Super Car built by VLF Automotive
Made in the USA, Auburn Michigan to be exact. 745 HP Force 1 V10. Designed by legendary automotive designer . Henrik Fisker. Unveiled at the 2016 North American International Auto Show in Detroit
Video is courtesy of the Bloomberg Business YouTube channel
Approx 100 of the Force 1 V10 Supercars will be hand built by VLF Automotive. It’s light weight Carbon Fibre body and powerful V10 move the Force 1 from 0-to-60 MPH in 3 seconds. There are precious few cars that can break the 3 second barrier.
Video is courtesy of the NAIASDetroit YouTube channel
The cost should be just a tad under $270,000 US. Delivery should start in June 2016 and VLF Automotive already have a number of advance orders signed and paid for.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice. Any offers mentioned in this post are also subject to change without notice.
Black Sabbath Rocks Chicago – January 2016
Black Sabbath Rocking in Chicago Jan 2016 – Fan video of the end of their concert.
Superb Optical illusion.
After you start the video below, please focus on the cross in the middle of the screen.
Suddenly you will get a glimpse of a new reality, as the faces in the photos will change before your own eyes. Continue watching, while keeping your eyes focused on the cross in the middle of the video screen.
Video is courtesy of the BuzzV Viral Videos YouTube channel
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner.
No good deed goes unpunished! Good Samaritan Shot and Killed After Trying to Help Man Who Slid off Icy Road.
Video is courtesy of Nikola Woods YouTube channel
In North Carolina, a Good Samaritan was Shot and Killed After Trying to Help a Man Who Slid off Icy Road.
Click on this line to read the full article posted on the ABC News website.
No good deed goes unpunished !
Posted by: Vincent Banial
http://www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice
WTFEST Music and Arts Festival 2016
Heads Up.
WTFest is back again in 2016
Mark your calendars and get your tickets.
When ?
Saturday June 25 2016.
Where ?
Lions Park in Brantford.
Click on this line to visit the official WTFEST website and to order your tickets.
Last year was a blast. This year should be even better. Great location. Well planned Festival. Reminded me of the Festival of Friends which is held in Hamilton.
Posted by: Vincent Banial
www.uniquelytoronto.com
Disclaimer: Any Trademarks mentioned in this post are owned by the respective Trademark owner. There could be unintentional errors or omissions in this post. Always refer to the official sites to confirm details and any ongoing changes or updates. This post is subject to change without notice. Any offers mentioned in this post are also subject to change without notice.
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