Latest news with #Rocker
The Age
a day ago
- Business
- The Age
Trade might be tough but these hospo operators have found a clever way to survive
When chef Faheem Noor opened Ruma Dining in Double Bay late last year, he discovered dinner trade lagged strong daytime traffic. Noor's solution wasn't to slash prices or introduce specials – instead, he merged Ruma with Arte Bianca, the popular prize-winning Double Bay pizzeria that operated only at night. Noor, who worked in the restaurant kitchens of chefs Gordon Ramsay and Tetsuya Wakuda, described the consolidation of the two separately owned businesses as Ruma x Arte Bianca. He said the move was a no-brainer given the savings in overheads and allowed operators to split rent, insurance, utilities and staff costs. Noor described the arrangement as 'a new business model' for an industry battling tough trading conditions. The chef said there were already a few savvy Sydney hospitality operators cleverly utilising their own spaces – pointing to daytime cafe Harrys Bondi's launch of its Raw Next Door concept, an izakaya that opens in the space after sunset. Former Tetsuya's head chef, Darren Robertson, tried a different approach to generate income during daytime downtime at Rocker, the North Bondi restaurant he co-founded. Rocker trialled a program with a company that sells workspace in closed hospitality venues.
Sydney Morning Herald
a day ago
- Business
- Sydney Morning Herald
Trade might be tough but these hospo operators have found a clever way to survive
When chef Faheem Noor opened Ruma Dining in Double Bay late last year, he discovered dinner trade lagged strong daytime traffic. Noor's solution wasn't to slash prices or introduce specials – instead, he merged Ruma with Arte Bianca, the popular prize-winning Double Bay pizzeria that operated only at night. Noor, who worked in the restaurant kitchens of chefs Gordon Ramsay and Tetsuya Wakuda, described the consolidation of the two separately owned businesses as Ruma x Arte Bianca. He said the move was a no-brainer given the savings in overheads and allowed operators to split rent, insurance, utilities and staff costs. Noor described the arrangement as 'a new business model' for an industry battling tough trading conditions. The chef said there were already a few savvy Sydney hospitality operators cleverly utilising their own spaces – pointing to daytime cafe Harrys Bondi's launch of its Raw Next Door concept, an izakaya that opens in the space after sunset. Former Tetsuya's head chef, Darren Robertson, tried a different approach to generate income during daytime downtime at Rocker, the North Bondi restaurant he co-founded. Rocker trialled a program with a company that sells workspace in closed hospitality venues.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Yahoo
FBI: Hundreds of open investigations linked to online exploitation network targeting kids, vulnerable people
The Brief The FBI said it has at least 250 investigations open across the country that are tied to "764," an online network that targets children and vulnerable people. It calls the network a violent, extremist network that operates online around the globe. Last week, federal agents arrested two suspected leaders of 764, operating out of the U.S. and Europe. TAMPA, Fla. - The FBI has hundreds of open investigations around the country connected to an online exploitation network. Big picture view The FBI said it has at least 250 investigations open across the country that are tied to "764," an online network that targets children and vulnerable people. It calls the network a violent, extremist network that operates online around the globe. READ: Softball coach admits to exchanging explicit photos, videos with teen girl: PCSO It says each one of its 55 field offices are involved in the investigations. Last week, federal agents arrested two suspected leaders of 764, operating out of the U.S. and Europe. "It is unimaginable and yet, it is happening every day all across the world," Supervisory Special Agent Michelle Nicolet, with the FBI Tampa Field Office, said. Follow FOX 13 on YouTube Dig deeper The FBI's Tampa Field Office said the 764 network targets children and vulnerable people on everyday social media and gaming platforms by exploiting them and then blackmailing them. It said these so-called extremists coerce children into doing sexual acts, animal cruelty and acts of self-harm, and then recording or live-streaming the acts. "Things that we're seeing is, sharing of extreme gore videos, sharing of child sexual abuse material, extreme cutting, people actually cutting words and names into their own skin, harming animals and pets, and even as extreme as live-streaming suicide," Nicolet said. Nicolet said the victims are typically between 10 and 17 years old, but they've been as young as nine years old. The FBI put out a warning earlier in the spring about increased activity of 764 and other violent online networks. CRIME: Largo man accused of battering 2 disabled adults at Clearwater group home "Some of them have the goal of ultimately collapsing society by the corruption of our youth," Nicolet said. "Others are just looking to gain status and power." Local perspective Earlier this year, the FBI says Jack Rocker, 19, of Tampa, was sentenced to seven years in prison for possessing child sexual abuse material. The U.S. Department of Justice said court records showed that Rocker was a member of 764. "In this case, the subject was a, by all standards, a kind of all-American kid," Nicolet said. During their investigation, FBI agents said they found more than 8,000 images and videos of child sexual abuse material on Rocker's devices. "It breaks my heart to think that that's the sole purpose of this network, right, is to target vulnerable teens, kiddos," Ady Pena, a youth and family advocate with Redefining Refuge, said. MORE: Horses on Polk County property left for weeks without food and water, owner arrested: 'Severely malnourished' What they're saying Redefining Refuge handles cases involving online child exploitation every day. The advocacy organization works with children and families who have been victims of sexual exploitation. Pena said any child can be targeted by online networks like these, and she said it's something that every family should be aware of and pay attention to. "It's usually somebody coming to the kiddos saying they're their same age or they know somebody that they know and they have mutual followers," Pena said. "If it's on Instagram or on Snapchat, it's pretty easy to access each other's followers." She emphasized the importance of families, community advocates and law enforcement working together closely to keep children safe. "If there is no education out there, how are we supposed to, you know, stop it or even just notice the signs?" she said. The FBI said 764 is just one example of these extremist groups that are popping up around the globe. READ: Florida fitness influencer faces 5 felonies for running over cop and fleeing, police say "I cannot overstate how important it is for parents to be are of where their kids are operating online, who they're communicating with, and also just educating their children on the dangers of the online space," Nicolet said. What you can do The FBI said there are some warning signs that families can look out for to help make sure their children are safe. "Increased moodiness, isolating themselves, really withdrawing from any sort of in-person contact with family or friends, any signs of unexplained bruises, scratches, cuts, marks," Nicolet said. "Things like wearing long sleeves when it's, you know, warm out, or trying to kind of cover up things that they might not want their parents to see. Unexplained injuries to pets, you know, family pets. "Or, kind of seeing things happen that just don't seem quite right or perhaps an obsession that your child might have with a new online friend or even potentially a love interest." The FBI said these signs aren't necessarily immediate cause for concern, but they are things that families should keep an eye on. Anyone who is involved in a situation involving any of these exploitation tactics is encouraged to report it to the following agencies: FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at FBI Field Office ( or 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324)) National Center for Missing and Exploited Children ( or 1-800-THE LOST) The Source The information in this story was gathered by FOX 13's Kylie Jones. WATCH FOX 13 NEWS: STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 13 TAMPA: Download the FOX Local app for your smart TV Download FOX Local mobile app:Apple |Android Download the FOX 13 News app for breaking news alerts, latest headlines Download the SkyTower Radar app Sign up for FOX 13's daily newsletter
Time Business News
21-04-2025
- Automotive
- Time Business News
Discover the Best Ski Racks for Snowmobiles Ride Further, Smarter, and Safer
For snowmobile enthusiasts, the journey into the backcountry is just as important as the destination. Whether you're carving fresh tracks after a big snowfall or heading deep into untouched terrain, you need reliable gear that can keep up. That's where a solid snowmobile ski rack comes into play. Transporting skis securely while riding through powder, trees, or across icy trails can be challenging without the right setup. Fortunately, companies like Rocker Ski Rack are changing the game with innovative, rider-designed solutions. If you're looking for the best ski racks for your snowmobile, keep reading — this guide has everything you need to know. Why You Need a Snowmobile Ski Rack If you've ever tried to balance your skis across your lap or strap them down with makeshift bungees, you know the struggle. Not only is it unsafe, but it also increases the risk of damaging your gear. A snowmobile ski rack isn't just a nice accessory — it's essential for anyone serious about backcountry touring, ski mountaineering, or just enjoying winter in the wild. Here's why investing in a ski rack is a smart move: Safety First : Properly secured gear won't shift or fall off while riding over uneven terrain. : Properly secured gear won't shift or fall off while riding over uneven terrain. Protect Your Skis : Avoid scratches, warping, or broken bindings caused by improper transport. : Avoid scratches, warping, or broken bindings caused by improper transport. Streamline Your Setup : Eliminate clutter and free up space for passengers, packs, or emergency gear. : Eliminate clutter and free up space for passengers, packs, or emergency gear. Boost Performance: Ride faster and handle better without bulky, awkward loads affecting balance. What to Look for in the Best Ski Racks Not all ski racks are created equal. When searching for the best ski racks for snowmobiles, keep an eye out for features that make a real difference in performance and usability. Here's what to consider: Durability : Look for high-strength materials like aluminum or composite plastics that can handle extreme cold, snow, and impact. : Look for high-strength materials like aluminum or composite plastics that can handle extreme cold, snow, and impact. Ease of Installation : The best racks should be easy to mount and remove — no complex tools or hours of setup required. : The best racks should be easy to mount and remove — no complex tools or hours of setup required. Secure Grip : A tight but gentle hold ensures your skis stay in place without scratching or damaging them. : A tight but gentle hold ensures your skis stay in place without scratching or damaging them. Compatibility: Whether you ride a Polaris, Ski-Doo, Arctic Cat, or Yamaha, the rack should fit most common snowmobile models. Why Rocker Ski Rack is Leading the Pack If you're serious about finding the best snowmobile ski rack, then you need to check out Rocker Ski Rack. Designed by backcountry riders for backcountry riders, Rocker has built a reputation for delivering products that are tough, functional, and easy to use. Here's what makes Rocker Ski Racks stand out: Universal Fit : Rocker racks are compatible with a wide range of snowmobile models and ski types, so you don't need to worry about custom modifications. : Rocker racks are compatible with a wide range of snowmobile models and ski types, so you don't need to worry about custom modifications. Fast, Tool-Free Mounting : Spend less time in the garage and more time on the snow. Their racks are quick to install and remove. : Spend less time in the garage and more time on the snow. Their racks are quick to install and remove. Lightweight But Strong : Made with weather-resistant, high-performance materials that won't weigh down your sled. : Made with weather-resistant, high-performance materials that won't weigh down your sled. Sleek Design: Function meets form — Rocker racks look just as good as they perform. Whether you're heading out for a full day of ski touring or making quick laps up the hill, Rocker's racks provide peace of mind and allow you to focus on the ride, not your gear. Built for Real Riders, Real Conditions At the end of the day, the best ski racks are the ones that can hold up to your lifestyle. Backcountry riding isn't gentle. It's tough, cold, and unpredictable. That's why a snowmobile ski rack needs to be more than just a place to stash your skis — it needs to work seamlessly with your sled, your gear, and your riding style. Rocker Ski Rack was built with this philosophy in mind. Their racks have been tested in real backcountry conditions, from deep powder to icy trails, and they've become the go-to choice for riders across North America. Final Thoughts: Ride Smarter This Season If you're looking to level up your snowmobile setup this winter, don't overlook your ski transport solution. The best ski racks will save your gear, improve safety, and let you push farther into the backcountry with confidence. So whether you're a seasoned rider or just getting into snowmobile-access skiing, check out Rocker Ski Rack. With rugged construction, sleek design, and rider-approved performance, it's no surprise they're becoming the leading name in snowmobile ski racks. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
20-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Mahomes Family Attacked In NSFW Rant By Baseball 'Boxer'
It was supposed to be a gimmick, a bit, as embarrassing as it would've been for "boxers'' Patrick Mahomes Sr. and John Rocker. Mahomes is of course the father of the brilliant Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick ... and dad once played Major League Baseball. Advertisement So did John Rocker, a controversial figure in his playing days in part because he was accused of a serious of hateful rants against ... well, everybody. So in New Orleans at the Super Bowl, in conjunction with the Chiefs' 40-22 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, there were sideshows. Taylor Swift was there getting booed because she's Travis Kelce's celebrity girlfriend. President Donald Trump was there, too. It was quite a scene. And to capitalize on it all? A staged street brawl between Mahomes Sr. and Rocker went viral. And this "beef'' - all orchestrated by Barstool Sports - carried over. ... because Mahomes Sr. and Rocker were going to box on April 18. Advertisement It seems Patrick Mahomes and his camp stepped in to put a stop to the foolishness, and now Rocker is speaking out. Hatefully. "Today is the day I was supposed to fight Pat Mahomes Sr.," Rocker said. "Instead of fighting today he backed out like a little (expletive) because his son and his loser wife decided it'd be a bad look to the family name for him to get in the ring." Rocker has been a controversial figure in the baseball world for some time ... though he's been out of the spotlight. Obviously, he wants back in. ... and he's decided that trashing the Mahomes family - including a female member of that family - is the path. Advertisement That's a seedy way to do business, which should surprise no one who is familar with Rocker's world view. Related: Why Chiefs RB Situation Is An 'Urgent' Need Related: Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift Baby Drama Heating Up After Viral Comment
