I haven't been this excited in quite some time. I honestly feel like a little kid again. This weekend has me very excited, and it has nothing to do with work for a change.
Tomorrow I am off to Gatineau Quebec to watch a live Air Show where the famous Snowbirds will be performing. There will also be some old WWI & WWII fighter planes there. I remember seeing a few of those at Canada's war museum on Ottawa, but I was young when I was last there.
I realize that going to the air show is far from being on the deck of a Naval aircraft carrier, but hey, its still way cool!
As if that isn't enough, tomorrow is the Mr. Olympia tournament and my friend Amit Sapir will be on stage for the 202 division. He can likely place top 5 which would be a HUGE accomplishment. He places #3 at the Toronto Pro Supershow a few months back. He is the 1st ever Israeli to qualify for the Olympia, its too bad he doesn't get more recognition in Israel.
I am unable to be at Olympia, but I am not too upset, tomorrow is every boxing fans great night. Two of my favourite fighters, Floyd Mayweather Jr and "Vicious" Victor Ortiz are fighting. It'll be a great fight! I am a he fan of them both, and even tweet with Ortiz on rare occasion. Needless to say, a few people are coming over and that fight will be enjoyed.
I hope you all have awesome weekends as well!
MLM
Friday, September 16, 2011
Monday, September 12, 2011
Back to the beginning
When I started getting involved in mobile apps and tech I wanted to create app that helped people get healthier and more fit. I was going to create high quality health, fitness and nutrition based apps. For the most part that is what I did.
With Ozipherus Health Technologies, my business partner and I developed HerbalPedia which wasn't a great app, nor was it as complete as I wanted it to be, but it was our 1st shot at an app. Our game for iOS Roll-4-Play was aimed at helping couples get back into the swing of things and to keep an open and healthy sexual relationship. That has turned out to be far more popular than HerbalPedia.
With my company, Ocean78 I created Steroid Quick Facts to let people know about the effects and potential dangers of anabolic steroids, and its been a steady seller on both BlackBerry and Android.
App #2 that Ocean78 created was Pocket Naturopath which was a huge hit. It is basically hints at what a Naturopath would recommend to help ease common illnesses such as joint pain, high blood pressure, menstrual cramps and the list goes on and on.
I am not sure where I went off track, but since then I have developed LaserTap - a laser tag based game for both BlackBerry and their PlayBook. It is a very fun, somewhat addictive game and it has received good response so far, but games were never on my "to do list."
I am just about finished developing my 2nd game which is a bird hunting game, which I think will be quite popular, mostly because its only $0.99.
Yesterday I started working on 2 themes. I think they are both very cool, and 1 of them is especially original, but these have nothing to do with health, fitness and nutrition.
So, I am quickly developing the most complete vitamin, mineral, herb and supplement data base in app form. This app will explain the uses and benefits of each item, what they should be taken with, what foods they can be found in etc...
Back to the beginning, back to helping people get healthy and fit!
With Ozipherus Health Technologies, my business partner and I developed HerbalPedia which wasn't a great app, nor was it as complete as I wanted it to be, but it was our 1st shot at an app. Our game for iOS Roll-4-Play was aimed at helping couples get back into the swing of things and to keep an open and healthy sexual relationship. That has turned out to be far more popular than HerbalPedia.
With my company, Ocean78 I created Steroid Quick Facts to let people know about the effects and potential dangers of anabolic steroids, and its been a steady seller on both BlackBerry and Android.
App #2 that Ocean78 created was Pocket Naturopath which was a huge hit. It is basically hints at what a Naturopath would recommend to help ease common illnesses such as joint pain, high blood pressure, menstrual cramps and the list goes on and on.
I am not sure where I went off track, but since then I have developed LaserTap - a laser tag based game for both BlackBerry and their PlayBook. It is a very fun, somewhat addictive game and it has received good response so far, but games were never on my "to do list."
I am just about finished developing my 2nd game which is a bird hunting game, which I think will be quite popular, mostly because its only $0.99.
Yesterday I started working on 2 themes. I think they are both very cool, and 1 of them is especially original, but these have nothing to do with health, fitness and nutrition.
So, I am quickly developing the most complete vitamin, mineral, herb and supplement data base in app form. This app will explain the uses and benefits of each item, what they should be taken with, what foods they can be found in etc...
Back to the beginning, back to helping people get healthy and fit!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
10 years comes and goes quickly
Its September 10th 2011, 10 years less 1 day since our world was forever changed! Where were you? I was loving life partying hard in Lake Louise Alberta. I was in the middle of a National Park, doing a job I enjoyed with people I really got along well with.
I was working the supper shrifts at the Chateau Lake Louise Victoria dining room. I was supposed to start at 3pm, but I woke up early that cool September 11th morning. I turned on the TV and as usual, switched to CNN - as I watched, 1 of the trade towers was in flames and a plane flew right through the 2nd tower.
WTF was going on???
We all know what happened now, thousands of innocent people lost their lives. Everyday people turned into HEROES that day, running into sheer doom to try and save people. The images of firefighters and emergency workers trying to dig people from the rubble, and carrying people out of the chaos is an image we all saw.
It was that very day that I realized Superman, Batman et al weren't the heroes, firefighters, dedicated police officers, ambulance attendants and every day joes who put on the brave hat that day, those are the REAL heroes.
I am very grateful that I wasn't affected 1st hand by any loss that day. My family from New York and New Jersey were safe. I didn't have any friends in that area that day. I was not affected.
That being said, as a person with family in Israel, my family has directly been affected by terrorist attacks, and terrorism is terrorism.
The other heroes that day were the passengers of flight 93! They discovered what had happend and they did the brave thing and took down that plane to prevent greater loss. I can only imagine what went through their heads as they realized that they had no other real option.
They discovered what had happened by using their cell phones on the plane. I wonder how different 9/11 would have been had twitter and Facebook been used back then. Would tweets about the 1st hijacking have gotten people out of the Trade Towers? Would status updates on Facebook have gotten people to evacuate the 2nd building?
I love technology, no doubt about it, but I always wonder, did people use their BBM on BlackBerry to warn other people? Did text messages save any lives? Would twitter have made a difference?
Truth is none of that matter right now. I pray for the families of all those that lost parents, lovers, children, siblings, cousins and friends. May they all rest in peace!
I say thank you to the brave people who became HEROES that day, even though I was not personally affected, they showed the power of humanity that day, and I tip my hat to them.
I will never forget how brave they were. I will always be grateful for the soldiers who are overseas. Whether you like their "mission" or not, they are in harms way, and until all of them are home safe, pray for them and their families. For those that lost friends and family, my sincerest condolonces.
May the next 10 years be filled with rebirth, joy, happiness and peace!
I was working the supper shrifts at the Chateau Lake Louise Victoria dining room. I was supposed to start at 3pm, but I woke up early that cool September 11th morning. I turned on the TV and as usual, switched to CNN - as I watched, 1 of the trade towers was in flames and a plane flew right through the 2nd tower.
WTF was going on???
We all know what happened now, thousands of innocent people lost their lives. Everyday people turned into HEROES that day, running into sheer doom to try and save people. The images of firefighters and emergency workers trying to dig people from the rubble, and carrying people out of the chaos is an image we all saw.
It was that very day that I realized Superman, Batman et al weren't the heroes, firefighters, dedicated police officers, ambulance attendants and every day joes who put on the brave hat that day, those are the REAL heroes.
I am very grateful that I wasn't affected 1st hand by any loss that day. My family from New York and New Jersey were safe. I didn't have any friends in that area that day. I was not affected.
That being said, as a person with family in Israel, my family has directly been affected by terrorist attacks, and terrorism is terrorism.
The other heroes that day were the passengers of flight 93! They discovered what had happend and they did the brave thing and took down that plane to prevent greater loss. I can only imagine what went through their heads as they realized that they had no other real option.
They discovered what had happened by using their cell phones on the plane. I wonder how different 9/11 would have been had twitter and Facebook been used back then. Would tweets about the 1st hijacking have gotten people out of the Trade Towers? Would status updates on Facebook have gotten people to evacuate the 2nd building?
I love technology, no doubt about it, but I always wonder, did people use their BBM on BlackBerry to warn other people? Did text messages save any lives? Would twitter have made a difference?
Truth is none of that matter right now. I pray for the families of all those that lost parents, lovers, children, siblings, cousins and friends. May they all rest in peace!
I say thank you to the brave people who became HEROES that day, even though I was not personally affected, they showed the power of humanity that day, and I tip my hat to them.
I will never forget how brave they were. I will always be grateful for the soldiers who are overseas. Whether you like their "mission" or not, they are in harms way, and until all of them are home safe, pray for them and their families. For those that lost friends and family, my sincerest condolonces.
May the next 10 years be filled with rebirth, joy, happiness and peace!
Saturday, August 27, 2011
The safest way to bank on your blackberry
Not too long ago, reports that your mobile banking app may not be as secure as expected. Many security risks were found and even Apple had a major security breach. If there is one thing more than anything else that you do not want hacked, its your banking information.
I contacted a research firm, and they ran a few surveys for me. Turns out that although RIMs market share is falling, they still have the majority of high end businessmen that travel, especially internationally.
Not too many cell compnaies offer reasonable data rates outside of your local zone, and that got me thinking... why not create a secure, information reduced, WiFi not necessary, no data plan required banking app? It wasn't an easy task but I did get it accomplished.
Daily Banking Tracker is an app for those who either travel frequently or do loads of banking. We don't require your account name or number. We don't ask for what bank you deal with. We don't even care what currency you use. Simply put in your balance of the account you want to track, and then continue to make transactions, and the app will do the math for you so that you know your active balance.
When you write a cheque (yup, people still do that) it will deduct that from your account so that you know your TRUE available balance.
Since WiFi and data plans aren't required, there is no risk for any hacking, and should you lose your phone, no valuable information is in the app other than a bunch of numbers. They wouldn't even know what bank you deal with.
For a full description of this $0.99 app you can CLICK HERE
I truly hope that this app brings peace of mind and security to those that need it.
I contacted a research firm, and they ran a few surveys for me. Turns out that although RIMs market share is falling, they still have the majority of high end businessmen that travel, especially internationally.
Not too many cell compnaies offer reasonable data rates outside of your local zone, and that got me thinking... why not create a secure, information reduced, WiFi not necessary, no data plan required banking app? It wasn't an easy task but I did get it accomplished.
Daily Banking Tracker is an app for those who either travel frequently or do loads of banking. We don't require your account name or number. We don't ask for what bank you deal with. We don't even care what currency you use. Simply put in your balance of the account you want to track, and then continue to make transactions, and the app will do the math for you so that you know your active balance.
When you write a cheque (yup, people still do that) it will deduct that from your account so that you know your TRUE available balance.
Since WiFi and data plans aren't required, there is no risk for any hacking, and should you lose your phone, no valuable information is in the app other than a bunch of numbers. They wouldn't even know what bank you deal with.
For a full description of this $0.99 app you can CLICK HERE
I truly hope that this app brings peace of mind and security to those that need it.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Apple here I come
When I started Ozipherus Health Technologies with my accountant, we wanted to make a huge splash on the iPhone and iPad market. We developed 2 apps for iOS that never ended up getting published. Out of the 3 platforms we developed for, Apple took the most money and was the hardest to develop.
When my accountant told me to revive Ocean78 on my own and make it an app development company, I decided right then and there that I was going to stick with BlackBerry and Android.
Much to my surprise, I am selling WAY MORE on BlackBerry as opposed to Android. I figured with the way Android is taking over the market, that Android was my key to retirement. Now I do recognize the potential that Android brings, and all future apps will be developed for them as well, but I have decided to create 2 apps for Apple iOS.
My Steroid Quick Facts app (click here for details) will be converted to iOS an hopefully will be ready and available by mid August. The new game I am developing will be made for iOS and the BlackBerry PlayBook, but not Android.
I hope that my new ideas can be developed for all 3 platforms and that people continue to purchase and enjoy the apps that I create.
I realize I may not be the most recognized app on iPhone, but I have no doubt that people will enjoy what I do develop for the Apple market. I look forward to saying that I am published in the iTunes App Store.
I will keep you posted!
When my accountant told me to revive Ocean78 on my own and make it an app development company, I decided right then and there that I was going to stick with BlackBerry and Android.
Much to my surprise, I am selling WAY MORE on BlackBerry as opposed to Android. I figured with the way Android is taking over the market, that Android was my key to retirement. Now I do recognize the potential that Android brings, and all future apps will be developed for them as well, but I have decided to create 2 apps for Apple iOS.
My Steroid Quick Facts app (click here for details) will be converted to iOS an hopefully will be ready and available by mid August. The new game I am developing will be made for iOS and the BlackBerry PlayBook, but not Android.
I hope that my new ideas can be developed for all 3 platforms and that people continue to purchase and enjoy the apps that I create.
I realize I may not be the most recognized app on iPhone, but I have no doubt that people will enjoy what I do develop for the Apple market. I look forward to saying that I am published in the iTunes App Store.
I will keep you posted!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Is Dr. Oz the new Oprah
Just about everybody has heard of Oprah Winfrey. She is and has been so popular that there is what is called the Oprah effect. Books that were mentioned on her show skyrocketed to best sellers. Diets she spoke about became THE trend. Whatever she endorsed turned to gold.
As we all know by now, Oprah has finished her 25th season of the Oprah Winfrey show, and she is now working on her own network and letting new faces take the lead on daytime TV. The big question lately is who will be the next Oprah.
If we look close enough, the answer has been brought to us a few years ago - BY OPRAH!!! Ever since Dr. Oz launched his own daytime television show, people across North America, and likely other countries as well make sure to watch him and listen to some tips that he has.
Recently I was watching an episode of Dr. Oz where he reviewed his 10 most important health tips. He had frequent watchers of his show come and help him demonstrate the health tips. Funny thing, they all had notepads full of notes. They write down what he says like students in a college classroom.
Being in the fitness supplement business, I see what products tend to trend. Not too long ago, Dr. Oz had a show about what supplements to take in order to lose weight the healthy way. Suddenly my customers were bombarded with requests, which eventually got to me "Ozzie... do you have any raspberry keytones or oat bran fiber for sale".
Whatever is shown and discussed on the Dr.Oz show seems to trend. He discussed the documentary "Forks over Knives" and suddenly the organic food store that I shop at was bombarded with requests for vegan organic cookbooks and recipe suggestions.
Dr. Oz has the power to attract the people, and obviously people listen to him. Dr. Oz is the new Oprah!
As we all know by now, Oprah has finished her 25th season of the Oprah Winfrey show, and she is now working on her own network and letting new faces take the lead on daytime TV. The big question lately is who will be the next Oprah.
If we look close enough, the answer has been brought to us a few years ago - BY OPRAH!!! Ever since Dr. Oz launched his own daytime television show, people across North America, and likely other countries as well make sure to watch him and listen to some tips that he has.
Recently I was watching an episode of Dr. Oz where he reviewed his 10 most important health tips. He had frequent watchers of his show come and help him demonstrate the health tips. Funny thing, they all had notepads full of notes. They write down what he says like students in a college classroom.
Being in the fitness supplement business, I see what products tend to trend. Not too long ago, Dr. Oz had a show about what supplements to take in order to lose weight the healthy way. Suddenly my customers were bombarded with requests, which eventually got to me "Ozzie... do you have any raspberry keytones or oat bran fiber for sale".
Whatever is shown and discussed on the Dr.Oz show seems to trend. He discussed the documentary "Forks over Knives" and suddenly the organic food store that I shop at was bombarded with requests for vegan organic cookbooks and recipe suggestions.
Dr. Oz has the power to attract the people, and obviously people listen to him. Dr. Oz is the new Oprah!
What BlackBerry needs to do in the tablet market
Let's face the facts. No matter how much I personally praise BlackBerry, and no matter how efficient their phones are, and the fact that millions of users love them, they are losing market share by the minute. Android and Apple have taken a large part of the market, and with 2 versions of the iPad out, and newer Android operated tablets coming out daily, the tablet market is tight.
I personally have quite a few positive things to say about the PlayBook, but I also have a few negatives. There is no such thing as the PERFECT product, but you want something that is as close to perfect for you as possible.
The PlayBook was created to compete directly with the iPad... but the BlackBerry user's market isn't the same as the iPad user.
Most people that want a secure, reliable, durable phone will choose BlackBerry. RIM made the BlackBerry a success in the offices of lawyers, accountants and business executives. That is where they need to still focus. Yes, teenagers are getting BlackBerries... yes, young adults who are not yet professionals are trying BlackBerries, and they are the ones that argue that there aren't enough apps in App World.
What RIM truly needs to do is get back to basics... create a tablet that is fast, multi tasking, and light weight. Make it very business friendly. Create a tablet that the doctor can carry around the hospital instead of his charts... a tablet that lawyers can keep all their documents on that he can travel with. Same as the business executive. Yes, the iPad does all this, but the wonderful thing about the PlayBook is the "Bridge" if you are already a BlackBerry user. RIM needs to expand on that, and then they will regain the confidence that many shareholders have lost.
RIM wasn't built on "happy fun time" cell phones. They were built on efficiency and reliability. Perhaps the next tablet should be the BriefBook (as in briefcase book) as oppsed to the PlayBook II.
I personally have quite a few positive things to say about the PlayBook, but I also have a few negatives. There is no such thing as the PERFECT product, but you want something that is as close to perfect for you as possible.
The PlayBook was created to compete directly with the iPad... but the BlackBerry user's market isn't the same as the iPad user.
Most people that want a secure, reliable, durable phone will choose BlackBerry. RIM made the BlackBerry a success in the offices of lawyers, accountants and business executives. That is where they need to still focus. Yes, teenagers are getting BlackBerries... yes, young adults who are not yet professionals are trying BlackBerries, and they are the ones that argue that there aren't enough apps in App World.
What RIM truly needs to do is get back to basics... create a tablet that is fast, multi tasking, and light weight. Make it very business friendly. Create a tablet that the doctor can carry around the hospital instead of his charts... a tablet that lawyers can keep all their documents on that he can travel with. Same as the business executive. Yes, the iPad does all this, but the wonderful thing about the PlayBook is the "Bridge" if you are already a BlackBerry user. RIM needs to expand on that, and then they will regain the confidence that many shareholders have lost.
RIM wasn't built on "happy fun time" cell phones. They were built on efficiency and reliability. Perhaps the next tablet should be the BriefBook (as in briefcase book) as oppsed to the PlayBook II.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
New app idea/your chance to won a PlayBook
Well, for the last few weeks I have been working directly with developers over in Waterloo at RIM HQ and I am developing an awesome game that will be exclusive to the Torch & PlayBook. If that launch goes well, I will make the game available on Android, but BlackBerry would get exclusivity for a few months.
I have NO doubt at all that this game will be a huge hit. The graphics will be great as will the sound effects, and its a game we all loved playing, but no app is currently available for it.
As my graphics team and developers work on this soon to be hit, I am working on a few ideas that I would like to see available on app stores. It came to me though, that just because I like an idea, doesn't mean that it will sell, so I am kindly asking for some help.
In the comment section of this blog, please write what type of app you would like to see and how much you would be willing to pay for it. I will randomly draw 1 name tomorrow at 8:30pm. The winner will win a free BlackBerry PlayBook as well as a $50.00 redemption coupon for PayPal.
In your comment, please leave a valid email address so that I may get in touch with you.
Your ideas are very much appreciated!
I have NO doubt at all that this game will be a huge hit. The graphics will be great as will the sound effects, and its a game we all loved playing, but no app is currently available for it.
As my graphics team and developers work on this soon to be hit, I am working on a few ideas that I would like to see available on app stores. It came to me though, that just because I like an idea, doesn't mean that it will sell, so I am kindly asking for some help.
In the comment section of this blog, please write what type of app you would like to see and how much you would be willing to pay for it. I will randomly draw 1 name tomorrow at 8:30pm. The winner will win a free BlackBerry PlayBook as well as a $50.00 redemption coupon for PayPal.
In your comment, please leave a valid email address so that I may get in touch with you.
Your ideas are very much appreciated!
Monday, June 27, 2011
Review - BlackBerry Style 9670
We all know that I am a huge BlackBerry fan. I had the Curve before, and I am thrilled with my BOLD. I was going to upgrade to the Torch recently, but I am so happy with my Bold, that I figured why bother.
My girlfriend was on team BlackBerry, and then decided to opt for an LG sidekick 2 which she HATED!!! SO when her upgrade was available about 6 months ago, back to BlackBerry she came.
Jen decided on the BlackBerry Style 9670, which is a larger flip phone that offers a full QWERTY keyboard. The main issue I had with the phone was that she is with Telus Mobility. I had Telus when I lived in Calgary and WOW did they offer horrid service.
So Jen had her Style for a few months and then suddenly the outer display cracked. Telus agreed to replace it and we left figuring all would be well. The Style is great for keeping up to date on every social network known to man. Jen liked that the "feel" of it was very similar to her older Curve.
About 4 months ago, Jen started sounding as if she was in a tunnel and far away when she was speaking. Nobody was able to hear her, although she heard us just fine. Back to Telus we went. This time they offered her a temp phone and they sent that in for repair. 2 weeks ago it was returned... guess what... still can't hear her. Phone went back today.
I am not sure if all Style 9670s have this issue. From what I read online, reviews were very positive about the Style. Jen loves every aspect of her cell except the speaker. I checked every setting to make sure it wasn't something we did accidentally. So now the question remains, who to be aggravated by; BlackBerry or Telus?
Not because I use BlackBerry and develop apps for them, but returns are very few. I also had a speaker issue with a much older Curve that I had. My cell carrier exchanged it on the spot. I have no choice but to lay the blame on Telus. No, they didn't create the speaker problem, and no, they do not manufacture the phone, but their service doesn't show that clients are valued.
As for an official review of the 9670, here you go: The battery life is equal to any Curve, obviously depending on usage and what you are running on the cell. Before the speaker issue, call quality and voice quality were excellent. It is not overly heavy, nor is it overly clunky, even though it is large for a flip phone. It is easy to access your apps, downloads and social networks. The browser is as fast if not a tad faster than my Bold. All in all I'd give it a 4 out of 5 rating!
As for Telus, well... customer service and tech support get a whopping 0 out of 5... as I'd say on twitter #FAIL
My girlfriend was on team BlackBerry, and then decided to opt for an LG sidekick 2 which she HATED!!! SO when her upgrade was available about 6 months ago, back to BlackBerry she came.
Jen decided on the BlackBerry Style 9670, which is a larger flip phone that offers a full QWERTY keyboard. The main issue I had with the phone was that she is with Telus Mobility. I had Telus when I lived in Calgary and WOW did they offer horrid service.
So Jen had her Style for a few months and then suddenly the outer display cracked. Telus agreed to replace it and we left figuring all would be well. The Style is great for keeping up to date on every social network known to man. Jen liked that the "feel" of it was very similar to her older Curve.
About 4 months ago, Jen started sounding as if she was in a tunnel and far away when she was speaking. Nobody was able to hear her, although she heard us just fine. Back to Telus we went. This time they offered her a temp phone and they sent that in for repair. 2 weeks ago it was returned... guess what... still can't hear her. Phone went back today.
I am not sure if all Style 9670s have this issue. From what I read online, reviews were very positive about the Style. Jen loves every aspect of her cell except the speaker. I checked every setting to make sure it wasn't something we did accidentally. So now the question remains, who to be aggravated by; BlackBerry or Telus?
Not because I use BlackBerry and develop apps for them, but returns are very few. I also had a speaker issue with a much older Curve that I had. My cell carrier exchanged it on the spot. I have no choice but to lay the blame on Telus. No, they didn't create the speaker problem, and no, they do not manufacture the phone, but their service doesn't show that clients are valued.
As for an official review of the 9670, here you go: The battery life is equal to any Curve, obviously depending on usage and what you are running on the cell. Before the speaker issue, call quality and voice quality were excellent. It is not overly heavy, nor is it overly clunky, even though it is large for a flip phone. It is easy to access your apps, downloads and social networks. The browser is as fast if not a tad faster than my Bold. All in all I'd give it a 4 out of 5 rating!
As for Telus, well... customer service and tech support get a whopping 0 out of 5... as I'd say on twitter #FAIL
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Did BlackBerry fail on the PlayBook launch
The commercials for the PlayBook are amazing. The graphics look great, the song is a goodie, and the reference that is does play Flash is very noticeable. Why then are sales not where they should be with the PlayBook?
The Board of Directors over at RIM want to see changes in terms of their CEO/Chairman roles. Both roles are being split by Jim Balsilie and Mike Lazaridis. I think part if the reason for this is that the PlayBook launch was perhaps not as successful as hoped.
I am not sure about the United States, but here in Canada the PlayBook was launched at Staples/Business Depot (Bureau en Gros in Quebec). You cannot compare the sales volumes of Staples to Best Buy and Future Shop. The iPad, as well as Android based tablets are available at many more stores, and the value of being in Best Buy cannot be matched by Staples.
Yes, you can get the PlayBook at your local Telus store, and I believe other mobile phone carriers are selling them as well, but most will try and sell you a second data plan.
Having played with both the iPad 2, and the PlayBook, I personally prefer the PlayBook. BlackBerry needs to focus on getting more games and apps to be able to compete. Why isn't Angry Birds on PlayBook yet? I know plenty of parents who chose iPhone or iPad simply because of games that their kids can play, such as Angry Birds and Fruit Ninja. I am guilty of that with my iPod Touch.
I am quite sure that the 2nd generation PlayBook will be far superior, I just hope that it has a better launch. Better retailers, better specialized apps, better marketing.
Although RIM is losing market share to Android and Apple, I do not see them disappearing any time soon. I think they are still the most secure smartphones, very reliable technology, and they offer great customer service. What they need to focus on now is working with larger retailers, getting specialized "BlackBerry only" apps, or BlackBerry versions of popular apps.
As an app developer, I find dealing with RIM very easy. I am working on creating a PlayBook and Torch only game with developers at RIM. I think more companies need to focus on this, because BlackBerry sales are still quite strong.
I would still love to see the PlayBook in bigger stores....
The Board of Directors over at RIM want to see changes in terms of their CEO/Chairman roles. Both roles are being split by Jim Balsilie and Mike Lazaridis. I think part if the reason for this is that the PlayBook launch was perhaps not as successful as hoped.
I am not sure about the United States, but here in Canada the PlayBook was launched at Staples/Business Depot (Bureau en Gros in Quebec). You cannot compare the sales volumes of Staples to Best Buy and Future Shop. The iPad, as well as Android based tablets are available at many more stores, and the value of being in Best Buy cannot be matched by Staples.
Yes, you can get the PlayBook at your local Telus store, and I believe other mobile phone carriers are selling them as well, but most will try and sell you a second data plan.
Having played with both the iPad 2, and the PlayBook, I personally prefer the PlayBook. BlackBerry needs to focus on getting more games and apps to be able to compete. Why isn't Angry Birds on PlayBook yet? I know plenty of parents who chose iPhone or iPad simply because of games that their kids can play, such as Angry Birds and Fruit Ninja. I am guilty of that with my iPod Touch.
I am quite sure that the 2nd generation PlayBook will be far superior, I just hope that it has a better launch. Better retailers, better specialized apps, better marketing.
Although RIM is losing market share to Android and Apple, I do not see them disappearing any time soon. I think they are still the most secure smartphones, very reliable technology, and they offer great customer service. What they need to focus on now is working with larger retailers, getting specialized "BlackBerry only" apps, or BlackBerry versions of popular apps.
As an app developer, I find dealing with RIM very easy. I am working on creating a PlayBook and Torch only game with developers at RIM. I think more companies need to focus on this, because BlackBerry sales are still quite strong.
I would still love to see the PlayBook in bigger stores....
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Internet Security - your role in it
When we speak about internet security, chances are you are thinking about viruses, worms, cookies, spyware and software to prevent those. We have all heard the words Norton, McCaffe, Anti-Virus and malware. These are all essential in the age of internet, but there is a much older saying that rings true for internet users as well - BUYER BEWARE!
I am a huge fan of fitness and natural remedies. I am on twitter all the time and I love connecting to people who are well known and respected "experts" on these subjects. As a certified personal trainer, certified nutritionist and somebody who has taken courses in holistic nutrition, energy healing and herbology, I consider myself very knowledgeable, but by no means an expert.
We all know the dangers on the internet that concern identity theft, sexual predators and people trying to get your personal information. These crimes were going on before the internet age, and sadly will continue in the future as well. There are other crimes that are easy to fall for on the internet.
Fitness and weight loss especially have huge followings of people ready to get the fix they need to help solve their problems. You can buy pills, creams, books, DVDs and tons of other stuff as well. Fact is, most of it won't help you.
Recently the popular trend has been self healing and natural remedies. I agree with so many of these and I read quite a few books and articles written by true experts, Dr Andrew Weil, Dr Mercola, Deepak Chopra, even Dr Oz. These are people that all have medical training, experience in sciences, and years of clinical work to back up their philosophies and theories. That doesn't mean that they are the only people that are correct, but a strong training and proof of that training is definitely something to look for when looking for an "expert".
Would you bring your car to a guy that kinda knows stuff since he read a few books, helped out at a garage a few times and has fixed his breaks once, or would you go to a certified mechanic?
Recently I was on twitter and came across a so called "self trained" natural healer. His name is Roger Bezanis, and I must say, I happen to agree with almost everything he has to say. He is very knowledgeable, and most of what he says makes sense. I decided to research him for a bit. He has a beautiful website that states that he has trained with a great Shaman... OK, who? when? where? What training did he receive?
He has 43000+ followers, and I am sure some of those followers do everything he says, and that is OK, I have no issues with that. What bothers me are people like him that offer services through his website. Roger Bezanis claims that for $150 you can send in pictures of yourself (he has certain specifications about the pictures) and he will reply with a healing philosophy for you. Again, I don't doubt that hand to face can lead to very obvious clues to your health, but by picture, without meeting the person? This, like so much out there sounds like a money grab.
How about those emails you get that can help you lose 20lbs in 30 days... AND ITS FREE!!! You just pay the ridiculous $19.95 shipping and handling charges. MONEY GRAB!!!
As users of the internet, we have a duty to research what is out there. Google had become a great source of knowledge and information. Sadly, it also has a wealth of misinformation and wrong facts. Being smart on the internet is the only way to go. Do your research. If you decide that people who claim to be self taught healers are good enough for you, that's fair enough, if you decide you want more facts, go get them.
We have a duty to protect ourselves online, and no matter what, that is a role we must take seriously.
I am a huge fan of fitness and natural remedies. I am on twitter all the time and I love connecting to people who are well known and respected "experts" on these subjects. As a certified personal trainer, certified nutritionist and somebody who has taken courses in holistic nutrition, energy healing and herbology, I consider myself very knowledgeable, but by no means an expert.
We all know the dangers on the internet that concern identity theft, sexual predators and people trying to get your personal information. These crimes were going on before the internet age, and sadly will continue in the future as well. There are other crimes that are easy to fall for on the internet.
Fitness and weight loss especially have huge followings of people ready to get the fix they need to help solve their problems. You can buy pills, creams, books, DVDs and tons of other stuff as well. Fact is, most of it won't help you.
Recently the popular trend has been self healing and natural remedies. I agree with so many of these and I read quite a few books and articles written by true experts, Dr Andrew Weil, Dr Mercola, Deepak Chopra, even Dr Oz. These are people that all have medical training, experience in sciences, and years of clinical work to back up their philosophies and theories. That doesn't mean that they are the only people that are correct, but a strong training and proof of that training is definitely something to look for when looking for an "expert".
Would you bring your car to a guy that kinda knows stuff since he read a few books, helped out at a garage a few times and has fixed his breaks once, or would you go to a certified mechanic?
Recently I was on twitter and came across a so called "self trained" natural healer. His name is Roger Bezanis, and I must say, I happen to agree with almost everything he has to say. He is very knowledgeable, and most of what he says makes sense. I decided to research him for a bit. He has a beautiful website that states that he has trained with a great Shaman... OK, who? when? where? What training did he receive?
He has 43000+ followers, and I am sure some of those followers do everything he says, and that is OK, I have no issues with that. What bothers me are people like him that offer services through his website. Roger Bezanis claims that for $150 you can send in pictures of yourself (he has certain specifications about the pictures) and he will reply with a healing philosophy for you. Again, I don't doubt that hand to face can lead to very obvious clues to your health, but by picture, without meeting the person? This, like so much out there sounds like a money grab.
How about those emails you get that can help you lose 20lbs in 30 days... AND ITS FREE!!! You just pay the ridiculous $19.95 shipping and handling charges. MONEY GRAB!!!
As users of the internet, we have a duty to research what is out there. Google had become a great source of knowledge and information. Sadly, it also has a wealth of misinformation and wrong facts. Being smart on the internet is the only way to go. Do your research. If you decide that people who claim to be self taught healers are good enough for you, that's fair enough, if you decide you want more facts, go get them.
We have a duty to protect ourselves online, and no matter what, that is a role we must take seriously.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Rebirths & New Beginnings
We hear the words born again quite often. People become Born Again Christians. You can go through a ceremony to become a Born Again Virgin. People have spiritual and/or health breakthroughs and tell you that they have been BORN AGAIN!!!
I never put much thought into these phrases until yesterday, when a part of my past was in essence literally born again.
When I came up with the idea for Ozipherus Health Technologies my goal was to create mobile apps and web based software for those involved in the health and fitness fields, and for those wanting to learn about health and/or fitness.
I shopped my idea around looking for investors and partners to no avail until I approached my accountant to see if he had any clients that may be interested. Turns out he was, so we incorporated our new company 60% mine 40% his. I was to create the apps and run the day to day of the company, and he was the financial backbone and he would look after salaries, payments, taxes etc...
I am a certified personal trainer, nutritionist and I have spent years researching Natural cures, Holistic Nutrition, energy healing and other herbal remedies. Creating health related apps and software is truly a passion and I sincerely hope that they help people.
The app world however, is very competitive, and just about anybody can create an app. I decided that we should expand our target market and include games, humorous apps and who knows what else. When I brought this idea to my partner he didn't like it. He said we should focus on health & fitness... especially since a main work in our company name is HEALTH.
Then he gave me an idea. "Why don't you take your earnings from Ozipherus Health Technologies, start another company and create non competing apps and games?" I hadn't thought of that. I was inspired!
Years ago I decided to get into the indoor tanning distribution business. I created a company, got a tax ID number and registered the name Ocean78. The tanning business never took off, and I had shut it down. I still have the Tax ID number, and I still own the Ocean78 name. So yesterday, Ocean78 was reborn in a new domain. Ocean78 has a second chance at life in the app/tech/mobile web world.
I am extremely excited to get going on this. I have had ideas for quite some time, and I even had meetings with some developers that work for RIM in efforts to create a laser tag game for the new PlayBook. I am going to make that happen.
Rebirths do happen, in many different ways, shapes and forms. Today I am excited to get back on my journey.
I never put much thought into these phrases until yesterday, when a part of my past was in essence literally born again.
When I came up with the idea for Ozipherus Health Technologies my goal was to create mobile apps and web based software for those involved in the health and fitness fields, and for those wanting to learn about health and/or fitness.
I shopped my idea around looking for investors and partners to no avail until I approached my accountant to see if he had any clients that may be interested. Turns out he was, so we incorporated our new company 60% mine 40% his. I was to create the apps and run the day to day of the company, and he was the financial backbone and he would look after salaries, payments, taxes etc...
I am a certified personal trainer, nutritionist and I have spent years researching Natural cures, Holistic Nutrition, energy healing and other herbal remedies. Creating health related apps and software is truly a passion and I sincerely hope that they help people.
The app world however, is very competitive, and just about anybody can create an app. I decided that we should expand our target market and include games, humorous apps and who knows what else. When I brought this idea to my partner he didn't like it. He said we should focus on health & fitness... especially since a main work in our company name is HEALTH.
Then he gave me an idea. "Why don't you take your earnings from Ozipherus Health Technologies, start another company and create non competing apps and games?" I hadn't thought of that. I was inspired!
Years ago I decided to get into the indoor tanning distribution business. I created a company, got a tax ID number and registered the name Ocean78. The tanning business never took off, and I had shut it down. I still have the Tax ID number, and I still own the Ocean78 name. So yesterday, Ocean78 was reborn in a new domain. Ocean78 has a second chance at life in the app/tech/mobile web world.
I am extremely excited to get going on this. I have had ideas for quite some time, and I even had meetings with some developers that work for RIM in efforts to create a laser tag game for the new PlayBook. I am going to make that happen.
Rebirths do happen, in many different ways, shapes and forms. Today I am excited to get back on my journey.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Finally approved by Apple
Well, it took time, quite a bit of time, but its now done! Ozipherus Health Technologies HerbalPedia & Roll-4-Play apps have been approved by Apple. They will be available on the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch.
HerbalPedia has already been on BlackBerry for 2 months and last week we launched Roll-Fore-Play Android version on Android.
I am not quite sure what took so long for Apple to approve. I know we had a few issues registering with them, but I never imagined it would take this long.
I am just very happy and excited for these to be available to the iOS market, and I look forward to creating new apps for fitness and health related users.
HerbalPedia has already been on BlackBerry for 2 months and last week we launched Roll-Fore-Play Android version on Android.
I am not quite sure what took so long for Apple to approve. I know we had a few issues registering with them, but I never imagined it would take this long.
I am just very happy and excited for these to be available to the iOS market, and I look forward to creating new apps for fitness and health related users.
Is BlackBerry dead?
A good friend of mine came over last night and we started to discuss a few cool apps that are now available. I was explaining to him that I was developing a new health and fitness related app and that I am risking this by making it exclusively for the BlackBerry Torch & PlayBook.
He looked at me in a shocked manner and simply said "why in the fuck would you do that. RIM will be gone in 5 years.... 5 years if they even make it that long."
He is a web designer and program developer. He has been involved in tech and computers WAY longer than I have. I am new to this entire app development, but my 1st app (although not as great as I wanted it to be) has seen some decent sales, and we have already broken even on that creation. He has been in the computer programming & website development business for YEARS.
I am a BlackBerry user. I have an iPod Touch and I absolutely love it, but I can't see myself using something like that as a phone as well. I have had a BlackBerry since mid 2008. Before that I had a few touch screen smart phones like the HTC Touch. I was not a fan.
I know very well that Android is out selling Apple & BlackBerry combined in the US. I know that Apple sales are getting stronger, and they have a huge loyal following. I foresee Android becoming the most used type of tablet, but I do not see BlackBerry dying.
OK, the PlayBook needs a few software touch ups, and a few new ideas wouldn't hurt. They need a few unique high tech apps, and maybe games like Angry Birds or Fruit Ninja. Fact remains, PlayBook plays Flash while iPad doesn't. It is also cheaper to create apps for the PlayBook, and that will attract app developers to want to work with RIM to make apps available on the PlayBook and newer BlackBerry cells.
Lets get back to the phones for a minute. Although apps such as KIK and PingChat are available, none of them are as easy and complete as BBM. RIM even announced that they would create the BBM in a partial version for iPhone and Androids... however that version won't allow for file and picture transfers. If you want the "real deal" you'll need a BlackBerry. BBM is standard with each BlackBerry (you may need a data plan, but it comes on each mobile that they have) Getting people to add KIK or PingChat may not be so easy.
Unlike PALM that never tried to get ahead of the game, I believe that RIM is in their research and development phase of some great new technology. I believe that the Torch now has a very loyal following, and is leaps and bounds ahead of the Palm Pre. It is just as useful as the iPhone and it still has the feel and abilities of a Bold or Curve type BlackBerry.
I am able to admit that BlackBerry is not the powerhouse that it used to be. It is not the leader in the smartphone race. The iPhone took a huge chunk of its market share, and now Android is a threat to both of them, but competition also helps.
In an era where we are becoming more mobile, more in touch and always available, BlackBerry will not be dead in 5 years. They will be a solid company with highly respected products, trusted products and service, and a loyal fan base of dedicated users.
Funny enough, as I am writing this, my BBM is going off with messages from a friend in Israel, and an associate in India. Both choose BlackBerry because if its ease at international use, and the reliability of their applications such as BBM.
I respect my friend, I understand what he sees, but he is wrong... BlackBerry will be around for a long time to come!
He looked at me in a shocked manner and simply said "why in the fuck would you do that. RIM will be gone in 5 years.... 5 years if they even make it that long."
He is a web designer and program developer. He has been involved in tech and computers WAY longer than I have. I am new to this entire app development, but my 1st app (although not as great as I wanted it to be) has seen some decent sales, and we have already broken even on that creation. He has been in the computer programming & website development business for YEARS.
I am a BlackBerry user. I have an iPod Touch and I absolutely love it, but I can't see myself using something like that as a phone as well. I have had a BlackBerry since mid 2008. Before that I had a few touch screen smart phones like the HTC Touch. I was not a fan.
I know very well that Android is out selling Apple & BlackBerry combined in the US. I know that Apple sales are getting stronger, and they have a huge loyal following. I foresee Android becoming the most used type of tablet, but I do not see BlackBerry dying.
OK, the PlayBook needs a few software touch ups, and a few new ideas wouldn't hurt. They need a few unique high tech apps, and maybe games like Angry Birds or Fruit Ninja. Fact remains, PlayBook plays Flash while iPad doesn't. It is also cheaper to create apps for the PlayBook, and that will attract app developers to want to work with RIM to make apps available on the PlayBook and newer BlackBerry cells.
Lets get back to the phones for a minute. Although apps such as KIK and PingChat are available, none of them are as easy and complete as BBM. RIM even announced that they would create the BBM in a partial version for iPhone and Androids... however that version won't allow for file and picture transfers. If you want the "real deal" you'll need a BlackBerry. BBM is standard with each BlackBerry (you may need a data plan, but it comes on each mobile that they have) Getting people to add KIK or PingChat may not be so easy.
Unlike PALM that never tried to get ahead of the game, I believe that RIM is in their research and development phase of some great new technology. I believe that the Torch now has a very loyal following, and is leaps and bounds ahead of the Palm Pre. It is just as useful as the iPhone and it still has the feel and abilities of a Bold or Curve type BlackBerry.
I am able to admit that BlackBerry is not the powerhouse that it used to be. It is not the leader in the smartphone race. The iPhone took a huge chunk of its market share, and now Android is a threat to both of them, but competition also helps.
In an era where we are becoming more mobile, more in touch and always available, BlackBerry will not be dead in 5 years. They will be a solid company with highly respected products, trusted products and service, and a loyal fan base of dedicated users.
Funny enough, as I am writing this, my BBM is going off with messages from a friend in Israel, and an associate in India. Both choose BlackBerry because if its ease at international use, and the reliability of their applications such as BBM.
I respect my friend, I understand what he sees, but he is wrong... BlackBerry will be around for a long time to come!
Friday, March 4, 2011
3 steps closer to being published
Well, the good news is that we got confirmation today from Android and BlackBerry that we can deploy our apps on their platforms. We are just waiting for final confirmation from Apple to grant us the permission to be an official publisher for iOS based apps.
This process is going quite smoothly and our 1st app will start official development and coding on Monday. I am already working on the design for our second app as well as creating some web based software that will be aimed at the dental, paediatric, Chiropractic and dietetic fields.
The world is evolving rapidly, and I refuse to fall behind the line.
I will keep you updated as to how we are making progress with the actual "building" of the app.
Have a wonderful weekend!
This process is going quite smoothly and our 1st app will start official development and coding on Monday. I am already working on the design for our second app as well as creating some web based software that will be aimed at the dental, paediatric, Chiropractic and dietetic fields.
The world is evolving rapidly, and I refuse to fall behind the line.
I will keep you updated as to how we are making progress with the actual "building" of the app.
Have a wonderful weekend!
The state of Montreal Radio
Radio... why am I blogging about radio? I have nothing to do with broadcasting, nothing to do with radio, or any particular radio shows. I do however listen to radio. As much as I dislike Montreal as a city, Montreal has a history of amazing radio personalities.
I will start off by saying this, I am going to make a few comments about FM radio, I do not listen to AM radio, but I must say, Andrew Carter on CJAD is a brilliant individual and a very talented radio personality. I remember him back when he was on 'Quiz the Wiz'. I don't listen to him because I don't listen to AM radio. He has a great reputation, and if you like talk radio, try listening to him.
Here is what my blog is about - English morning radio. When I was just a wee little kid, I remember listening to Terry & Ted on CHOM. They moved around a bit and then ended up back on CHOM. A few years back, Terry left to Calgary and people doubted Ted's ability to be the #1 guy on the show. He proved to be the very best morning man, and at the time, CHOM's Ted, Kim & Kemp was the best morning show you could find. I know Kim Rossi was only there because of her husband, and I know she is a vile excuse for a human being, but the show itself was great.
It is now 2011, and for the last year I would not be found dead listening to CHOM's new morning show. Pete Merrier & Chantal Desjardins are nothing short of terrible. Way to go on ruining Montreal's #1 morning show. Ted Bird left CHOM and ended up on K103.7, off the Indian reserve near Montreal. I listen to him on occasion because I like him, and find him hilarious, but I don't always get good reception from them.
The person that I truly loved on the CHOM morning show was Rob Kemp. He is now on the 1 - 4 pm time slot and I always make an effort to listen to him. He has great personality, he is funny, he is amazing with twitter, facebook and YouTube. He is the future of radio in my opinion. He has mastered the art of old fashioned radio personality with new aged social networking, and he is amazing at both.
My kids like the popular trendy music. Sadly they have both been struck by Bieber fever :( ! For that reason I have been mostly listening to Virgin Radio 96 in the morning. Cat Spencer and Lisa Player are an amazing team, great personalities and they work well together.
To no surprise, Q92 asked Aaron Rand to step down and he gracefully did. Cat Spencer is leaving Virgin to go fill his shoes. I know Cat will do well at Q92, he is very talented and I believe he really likes his job and career. I am hoping that Lisa does not follow him to Q92... Virgin needs SOMEBODY!!!
Who can fill in on the morning show for Cat? Is there a big enough name out there that can replace him? Will this replacement work as well with Lisa as he did?
I am not sure what is going on, but it seems that since Astral bought Mix96, CHOM & CJAD things have been going wacky. Ted Bird left, Rob Kemp was given a shorter show, Cat is leaving, and they are fully supportive of Pete Merrier & Chantal Desjardins... I'm confused.
I guess I was wrong when I said I wouldn't talk about AM radio, because here it comes... I think that a few of the CJAD crew should be brought to FM radio. I think Dan Laxer would work well on CHOM, and perhaps get funny man Joey Elias on either CHOM or Virgin's morning show??? I would LOVE to see Rob Kemp back on in the am, although I am sure he is OK without the 3am wake-ups.
During the day I listen to satellite radio or my iPod. I make an effort to listen to Rob, and in the morning I enjoy the talking, the jokes, the music and the little games that they play. However, if the Virgin show goes the route of CHOM's, I am going to be all iPod all the time...
I will start off by saying this, I am going to make a few comments about FM radio, I do not listen to AM radio, but I must say, Andrew Carter on CJAD is a brilliant individual and a very talented radio personality. I remember him back when he was on 'Quiz the Wiz'. I don't listen to him because I don't listen to AM radio. He has a great reputation, and if you like talk radio, try listening to him.
Here is what my blog is about - English morning radio. When I was just a wee little kid, I remember listening to Terry & Ted on CHOM. They moved around a bit and then ended up back on CHOM. A few years back, Terry left to Calgary and people doubted Ted's ability to be the #1 guy on the show. He proved to be the very best morning man, and at the time, CHOM's Ted, Kim & Kemp was the best morning show you could find. I know Kim Rossi was only there because of her husband, and I know she is a vile excuse for a human being, but the show itself was great.
It is now 2011, and for the last year I would not be found dead listening to CHOM's new morning show. Pete Merrier & Chantal Desjardins are nothing short of terrible. Way to go on ruining Montreal's #1 morning show. Ted Bird left CHOM and ended up on K103.7, off the Indian reserve near Montreal. I listen to him on occasion because I like him, and find him hilarious, but I don't always get good reception from them.
The person that I truly loved on the CHOM morning show was Rob Kemp. He is now on the 1 - 4 pm time slot and I always make an effort to listen to him. He has great personality, he is funny, he is amazing with twitter, facebook and YouTube. He is the future of radio in my opinion. He has mastered the art of old fashioned radio personality with new aged social networking, and he is amazing at both.
My kids like the popular trendy music. Sadly they have both been struck by Bieber fever :( ! For that reason I have been mostly listening to Virgin Radio 96 in the morning. Cat Spencer and Lisa Player are an amazing team, great personalities and they work well together.
To no surprise, Q92 asked Aaron Rand to step down and he gracefully did. Cat Spencer is leaving Virgin to go fill his shoes. I know Cat will do well at Q92, he is very talented and I believe he really likes his job and career. I am hoping that Lisa does not follow him to Q92... Virgin needs SOMEBODY!!!
Who can fill in on the morning show for Cat? Is there a big enough name out there that can replace him? Will this replacement work as well with Lisa as he did?
I am not sure what is going on, but it seems that since Astral bought Mix96, CHOM & CJAD things have been going wacky. Ted Bird left, Rob Kemp was given a shorter show, Cat is leaving, and they are fully supportive of Pete Merrier & Chantal Desjardins... I'm confused.
I guess I was wrong when I said I wouldn't talk about AM radio, because here it comes... I think that a few of the CJAD crew should be brought to FM radio. I think Dan Laxer would work well on CHOM, and perhaps get funny man Joey Elias on either CHOM or Virgin's morning show??? I would LOVE to see Rob Kemp back on in the am, although I am sure he is OK without the 3am wake-ups.
During the day I listen to satellite radio or my iPod. I make an effort to listen to Rob, and in the morning I enjoy the talking, the jokes, the music and the little games that they play. However, if the Virgin show goes the route of CHOM's, I am going to be all iPod all the time...
Monday, February 28, 2011
Are graphic designers an endangered species?
I am writing this blog for 2 main reasons. #1 is due to the fact that I run a startup mobile app and web based software company. #2 is because I recently advised a cousin of mine to go into graphic design and web page design.
Let me start off with my cousin. She is currently studying Sociology and hates it. She realizes that getting a degree is important, and that just because she studies sociology, does not mean she is stuck being a sociologist. The thing with her is that she is very good with computers, she is very artistic and very creative. I also figured if my company Ozipherus Health Technologies ever gets big enough, I would love to employ her. I figured based on her knowledge and personality, graphic & web design is right up her alley.
I was speaking to a friend of mine on twitter the other day and I admitted that for my 1st app I employed a company in India since their quote was THOUSANDS of dollars cheaper, and being limited in financial backing, we need to be very cost conscious.
I don't want to have every project "made in India". I want to employ local talent and local companies. I want to help young designers and developers get a feel for the "game" and grow with my company. Outsourcing to India was a one shot deal, and it is not that their work isn't good, web coding is web coding, it was simply a budgetary decision.
I saw the clothing industry all but die a slow and painful death when import fees from China were lifted. I saw technicians lose jobs as mechanical and electronic goods were being made in the far east. Watch makers are hard to come by now that China, Thailand, Japan and the Philippines all make quality watches.
Mobile apps and website development are huge businesses. They employ thousands, and online is not going away. Mobile apps may be a trend, but web applications, website development and design and e-commerce development are not going anywhere... if anything, they are getting to be bigger industries.
I wonder though, will cheaper labor in India lead to lost jobs for graphic designers and web developers here in North America? What other countries will it affect?
There are thousands of graphic artists out and about. Some freelance and others work for large companies. The truth is, a creative talented mind is a valuable asset, but with school costs going up and living costs going up, can North American graphic artists compete in a global market place?
I will do my part by trying to employ local talent, but I am just 1 company...
Let me start off with my cousin. She is currently studying Sociology and hates it. She realizes that getting a degree is important, and that just because she studies sociology, does not mean she is stuck being a sociologist. The thing with her is that she is very good with computers, she is very artistic and very creative. I also figured if my company Ozipherus Health Technologies ever gets big enough, I would love to employ her. I figured based on her knowledge and personality, graphic & web design is right up her alley.
I was speaking to a friend of mine on twitter the other day and I admitted that for my 1st app I employed a company in India since their quote was THOUSANDS of dollars cheaper, and being limited in financial backing, we need to be very cost conscious.
I don't want to have every project "made in India". I want to employ local talent and local companies. I want to help young designers and developers get a feel for the "game" and grow with my company. Outsourcing to India was a one shot deal, and it is not that their work isn't good, web coding is web coding, it was simply a budgetary decision.
I saw the clothing industry all but die a slow and painful death when import fees from China were lifted. I saw technicians lose jobs as mechanical and electronic goods were being made in the far east. Watch makers are hard to come by now that China, Thailand, Japan and the Philippines all make quality watches.
Mobile apps and website development are huge businesses. They employ thousands, and online is not going away. Mobile apps may be a trend, but web applications, website development and design and e-commerce development are not going anywhere... if anything, they are getting to be bigger industries.
I wonder though, will cheaper labor in India lead to lost jobs for graphic designers and web developers here in North America? What other countries will it affect?
There are thousands of graphic artists out and about. Some freelance and others work for large companies. The truth is, a creative talented mind is a valuable asset, but with school costs going up and living costs going up, can North American graphic artists compete in a global market place?
I will do my part by trying to employ local talent, but I am just 1 company...
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Finally incorporated
Well, it took a few extra days but all is done and by tomorrow afternoon we will be fully incorporated. I have the majority of shares, as well as titles of CEO and Director of Operations. My business partner Jeff has 40% of the company since he is financing this deal, and he will have to lose 10% stock that we will eventually find an internal IT director. Jeff will be the CFO (he has had that position in large companies and he is a CA) and I believe he will also be the VP of finances & accounting.
Our 1st app should be ready withing the next 5 to 6 weeks, and it will be available on iPhone and BlackBerry.
We are also working on the first web based project that will be a resource for fitness experts and personal trainers.
Without sounding too much like Sheldon from the Big Bang Theory TV show, technology is slowly taking over the business world, and I am very proud to be on board!
Our 1st app should be ready withing the next 5 to 6 weeks, and it will be available on iPhone and BlackBerry.
We are also working on the first web based project that will be a resource for fitness experts and personal trainers.
Without sounding too much like Sheldon from the Big Bang Theory TV show, technology is slowly taking over the business world, and I am very proud to be on board!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Misadventure in email money sending
I called my bank, the CIBC to ask about the easiness and security of email money sending. The lady I was speaking with assured me that it was the "easiest, fastest and safest" way to send money. I also know of many friends, and my sister that does this quite often. Its an easy enough concept, and it makes total sense.
1 of the companies that I represent deals with the ScotiaBank. They find it easier to deposit money into a Scotia account for me. I have no problem with this, and I was even ready to switch to the ScotiaBank, but they aren't offering me what the CIBC has... cheque protection, high daily limits, no freeze through the machine etc...
What I was doing in the past was physically going to a ScotiaBank, withdrawing my pay, and then depositing it into the CIBC. It was a good time consuming method that led to no issues, problems or complications.
I decided that since I was quite busy yesterday, I'd email the money to myself... HUGE MISTAKE!!!
Within 30 minutes I received an email with the transfer, I answered the security question and did all that I needed to do, yet I was given an error code. After calling both the CIBC and Scotia, I discovered that Scotia put a hold on this money, since it was the 1st time they saw an email money transfer from my account and it was a fair sum of money. After a few security questions, I got that corrected, received a new email and went about everything again.
Still have an error code, and no money. I went to my CIBC branch and they told me I had to call web banking's toll free number. For the next 5 hours I argued with the CIBC and Certapay about where my money was.
Here is what I got out of it, I still don't have my money. Agents at the CIBC have no access to the department that can help me. The supervisor at the CIBC basically told me that he couldn't help and too bad for me, I have to wait 48 to 72 hours to get a call.
It is now almost 12 hours after I "completed" the email money transfer and my money is in cyberspace, with nobody available to help me. I guess technology doesn't always make life easier.
All I know is this, I will NEVER use ScotiaBank EVER again, and I am seriously debating leaving the CIBC. Whether I do or not, their complaints department is getting a very detailed long letter.
As for you Daniel Clement at CIBC customer service, Thank you for being so rude, uncaring and unwilling to help... as a supervisor, it should be your goal to make the client feel as if they were assisted. I received better care from EVERYBODY else but you. No matter what happens with my money, I wish you a good weekend Mr. Clement, and I hope to never have to deal with your rudeness and incompetent ass again!
1 of the companies that I represent deals with the ScotiaBank. They find it easier to deposit money into a Scotia account for me. I have no problem with this, and I was even ready to switch to the ScotiaBank, but they aren't offering me what the CIBC has... cheque protection, high daily limits, no freeze through the machine etc...
What I was doing in the past was physically going to a ScotiaBank, withdrawing my pay, and then depositing it into the CIBC. It was a good time consuming method that led to no issues, problems or complications.
I decided that since I was quite busy yesterday, I'd email the money to myself... HUGE MISTAKE!!!
Within 30 minutes I received an email with the transfer, I answered the security question and did all that I needed to do, yet I was given an error code. After calling both the CIBC and Scotia, I discovered that Scotia put a hold on this money, since it was the 1st time they saw an email money transfer from my account and it was a fair sum of money. After a few security questions, I got that corrected, received a new email and went about everything again.
Still have an error code, and no money. I went to my CIBC branch and they told me I had to call web banking's toll free number. For the next 5 hours I argued with the CIBC and Certapay about where my money was.
Here is what I got out of it, I still don't have my money. Agents at the CIBC have no access to the department that can help me. The supervisor at the CIBC basically told me that he couldn't help and too bad for me, I have to wait 48 to 72 hours to get a call.
It is now almost 12 hours after I "completed" the email money transfer and my money is in cyberspace, with nobody available to help me. I guess technology doesn't always make life easier.
All I know is this, I will NEVER use ScotiaBank EVER again, and I am seriously debating leaving the CIBC. Whether I do or not, their complaints department is getting a very detailed long letter.
As for you Daniel Clement at CIBC customer service, Thank you for being so rude, uncaring and unwilling to help... as a supervisor, it should be your goal to make the client feel as if they were assisted. I received better care from EVERYBODY else but you. No matter what happens with my money, I wish you a good weekend Mr. Clement, and I hope to never have to deal with your rudeness and incompetent ass again!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
iPod Touch or Tablet?
Although technology isn't my current main income, it will be in the next few months. As my company develops more apps and websites, my sole income will be from "web" and App sources. I have a few retail estores and I only market them via Facebook, YouTube, twitter and MySpace (yes, its still around).
In the meantime, I also need to focus on my other jobs and make income there so that I can pay for all these technological ventures that I am investing both time and money into.
I often run from store to store and gym to gym selling my brands of nutritional supplements, fitness equipment or other gadgets. I currently bring my laptop and samples everywhere I go. Let me tell you, that gets heavy, so I decided to buy an iPad.
In speaking with a few people and doing some research, I see that the iPad is not the best suited tablet on the market for what I need. I am also not really willing to pay the price for a tablet at the current moment. Then an idea struck my mind... what if I went back a step and got the iPod Touch??? I can load all my music, plenty of pictures, my pricelists etc... it is smaller than the iPad and this way my son and I can also waste time playing angry birds...
I do not want the iPhone, I am team BlackBerry all the way and I am afraid to switch since BlackBerry has been great to me.
I would love feedback on the iPod Touch!
In the meantime, I also need to focus on my other jobs and make income there so that I can pay for all these technological ventures that I am investing both time and money into.
I often run from store to store and gym to gym selling my brands of nutritional supplements, fitness equipment or other gadgets. I currently bring my laptop and samples everywhere I go. Let me tell you, that gets heavy, so I decided to buy an iPad.
In speaking with a few people and doing some research, I see that the iPad is not the best suited tablet on the market for what I need. I am also not really willing to pay the price for a tablet at the current moment. Then an idea struck my mind... what if I went back a step and got the iPod Touch??? I can load all my music, plenty of pictures, my pricelists etc... it is smaller than the iPad and this way my son and I can also waste time playing angry birds...
I do not want the iPhone, I am team BlackBerry all the way and I am afraid to switch since BlackBerry has been great to me.
I would love feedback on the iPod Touch!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
WTF with the weather???
I must start off by saying that I am very grateful that it is bright and sunny outside. I am very happy that my son is going to a play date and then both families are going to a star exhibit. I am thrilled that we are all excited about this.
What I don't understand though is how the weather works... Thursday was a very mild day with hints of warm, but it was cloudy and gray. Friday was BEAUTIFUL, +5 at its highest and sunny. Yesterday was cold and windy and today is VERY cold yet sunny....
Without crossing too many lines and being totally politically incorrect, is Mother Nature bi-polar?
Am I just getting jaded and cynical or did the weather used to slowly change from warm to cold to colder and then back to cold and then warmer???
Either way, I want warmer weather, but I state again, I am supper happy and grateful for the sun today!
What I don't understand though is how the weather works... Thursday was a very mild day with hints of warm, but it was cloudy and gray. Friday was BEAUTIFUL, +5 at its highest and sunny. Yesterday was cold and windy and today is VERY cold yet sunny....
Without crossing too many lines and being totally politically incorrect, is Mother Nature bi-polar?
Am I just getting jaded and cynical or did the weather used to slowly change from warm to cold to colder and then back to cold and then warmer???
Either way, I want warmer weather, but I state again, I am supper happy and grateful for the sun today!
Friday, February 18, 2011
My Family Tree project
Lets just say a crazy bug entered my head. I have a cousin that I am quite close to, and my girlfriend asked me how exactly we are related, and she was curious since my son absolutely ADORES him. My answer was quite simple "I'm not sure"!
A few years back, a cousin on my mother's side who lives in Israel, started a family tree, and really has it all down, facebook group and all. I never thought much of it at all, but now I want to map my paternal family tree.
I sat down with graph paper, a ruler and pencil and started with my son, then me and my siblings, my dad and his sister, her kids, my dad's parents, 2 of their siblings that I knew about and a few of their kids... that is where I drew a blank.
Tonight over Shabbat supper, I started talking to my dad, and WOW, do I ever have holes in my pretty little drawing that I made today... I knew I had cousins and extended family, I just couldn't fit the puzzle pieces together... SOOOO... tomorrow evening my dad and I will be spending the evening placing character by character on my family tree. Hopefully I can get in touch with enough of them to create a facebook group and perhaps a twitter list as well.
Who knows, perhaps a family reunion is in the making...
I will keep you posted!
A few years back, a cousin on my mother's side who lives in Israel, started a family tree, and really has it all down, facebook group and all. I never thought much of it at all, but now I want to map my paternal family tree.
I sat down with graph paper, a ruler and pencil and started with my son, then me and my siblings, my dad and his sister, her kids, my dad's parents, 2 of their siblings that I knew about and a few of their kids... that is where I drew a blank.
Tonight over Shabbat supper, I started talking to my dad, and WOW, do I ever have holes in my pretty little drawing that I made today... I knew I had cousins and extended family, I just couldn't fit the puzzle pieces together... SOOOO... tomorrow evening my dad and I will be spending the evening placing character by character on my family tree. Hopefully I can get in touch with enough of them to create a facebook group and perhaps a twitter list as well.
Who knows, perhaps a family reunion is in the making...
I will keep you posted!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Battle of the weight loss shows
Just in case you didn't believe me when I stated that I watch way too much TV, this blog should prove that! I will also admit that although I have no explanation for it, I really enjoy reality TV, so I am sure to watch 'Biggest Loser', 'Heavy' and MTV's 'I Used To Be Fat'.
I am a certified personal trainer with quite a background in not only nutrition, but holistic nutrition and sports performance nutrition. I am always looking for new training ideas and I love the motivation and inspiration these shows bring to millions.
Which of these is the best, entertainment wise?
I have watched 'Biggest Loser' from the very beginning, and I have enjoyed almost every season. They are currently on season 11 and I will say I am not enjoying it all that much. I like the new trainers, would have loved to have seen more of them in the first 4 episodes... I also think that the competition has been quite good this season, but it started way to close after last season for my liking.
'I Used to be Fat' on MTV shows a High School graduate change their lives over the course of 1 summer. In terms of proving that it can be done, and in terms of inspiration, this is the winner, but the show isn't always an edge of the seat watch...
Capitalizing on the success of Intervention and Hoarders, A&E launched Heavy which is my favorite of the weight loss shows. I like the way its done, I like the trainers, I like how we get background on the participants. I also think it really shows that food can be an addiction and that hard work and diligence will lead to success.
BUT - which is the entertainment winner?
I guess I have to say Biggest Loser wins because if its game show backbone. Yes, it is a show that helps change lives, and yes, it gets MILLIONS of people active and on weight loss journeys, but the show is a game show. It pits people against each other in a 'Survivor' like game, and that game mixed with the characters leads to quite an entertaining show.
If you are looking for some great weight loss shows be sure to catch 'X-Weighted' and 'Last 10 pound bootcamp'!
I am a certified personal trainer with quite a background in not only nutrition, but holistic nutrition and sports performance nutrition. I am always looking for new training ideas and I love the motivation and inspiration these shows bring to millions.
Which of these is the best, entertainment wise?
I have watched 'Biggest Loser' from the very beginning, and I have enjoyed almost every season. They are currently on season 11 and I will say I am not enjoying it all that much. I like the new trainers, would have loved to have seen more of them in the first 4 episodes... I also think that the competition has been quite good this season, but it started way to close after last season for my liking.
'I Used to be Fat' on MTV shows a High School graduate change their lives over the course of 1 summer. In terms of proving that it can be done, and in terms of inspiration, this is the winner, but the show isn't always an edge of the seat watch...
Capitalizing on the success of Intervention and Hoarders, A&E launched Heavy which is my favorite of the weight loss shows. I like the way its done, I like the trainers, I like how we get background on the participants. I also think it really shows that food can be an addiction and that hard work and diligence will lead to success.
BUT - which is the entertainment winner?
I guess I have to say Biggest Loser wins because if its game show backbone. Yes, it is a show that helps change lives, and yes, it gets MILLIONS of people active and on weight loss journeys, but the show is a game show. It pits people against each other in a 'Survivor' like game, and that game mixed with the characters leads to quite an entertaining show.
If you are looking for some great weight loss shows be sure to catch 'X-Weighted' and 'Last 10 pound bootcamp'!
Monday, February 14, 2011
I may be too busy....
I know it takes a great idea to hit it big on the app market, and yes, the competition is intense, but there is money to be made. Having made a good income from other ecommerce ideas, I decided that my next step would be to create a few apps.
I have 2 apps on the go right now. My original app is already out and available, and it basically makes one of my online stores accessible from any iPhone, iPad, iTouch & BlackBerry devise. These 2 new apps will be available to all of those and android as well.
1 of the apps is fairly simple and has a professional use, so I am not worried about selling a million of them at $2.99 a piece. The coding should be simple, it just involves quite a bit of data entry at the early stages of creation. It is a simple process.
My 2nd app idea is very interactive and can work online as well, so that will be a huge project and I will likely need to find a few new designers to help with coding and functionality. I may also have to look for an equity investor and give up part of that business, which I am quite ready to do. I have no doubt I can sell upwards of 2 million of these at $3.99 a pop.... so you do the math.
Last night, being the creator that I am, and idea struck me, and now I am also starting to develop a new social website. Something not out there yet... but this will be a HUGE task to get it running and I will for sure need partners and new staff to help with this.
I am very positive that all this will get done and quite successfully, I am just worried that I may be over doing it to myself right now.
I guess time will tell!
I have 2 apps on the go right now. My original app is already out and available, and it basically makes one of my online stores accessible from any iPhone, iPad, iTouch & BlackBerry devise. These 2 new apps will be available to all of those and android as well.
1 of the apps is fairly simple and has a professional use, so I am not worried about selling a million of them at $2.99 a piece. The coding should be simple, it just involves quite a bit of data entry at the early stages of creation. It is a simple process.
My 2nd app idea is very interactive and can work online as well, so that will be a huge project and I will likely need to find a few new designers to help with coding and functionality. I may also have to look for an equity investor and give up part of that business, which I am quite ready to do. I have no doubt I can sell upwards of 2 million of these at $3.99 a pop.... so you do the math.
Last night, being the creator that I am, and idea struck me, and now I am also starting to develop a new social website. Something not out there yet... but this will be a HUGE task to get it running and I will for sure need partners and new staff to help with this.
I am very positive that all this will get done and quite successfully, I am just worried that I may be over doing it to myself right now.
I guess time will tell!
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