Latest news with #Stargazer
Otago Daily Times
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Otago Daily Times
Evening of food, rail and stars
Lindsay Sinien, 36 (left), and Jurij Boccioli, 35, both of France, board the Stargazer train to Taieri Gorge last night. PHOTO: PETER MCINTOSH Most of us have heard of Stars in Their Eyes, Dancing with the Stars, and RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars. Now there is dining with the stars — and it is happening here in Dunedin. Dunedin Railways has partnered with Tūhura Otago Museum and the Dunedin Astronomical Society to take passengers on two exclusive Stargazer train journeys through the Taieri Gorge, to have a gourmet meal beneath Otago's star-studded sky. Then, if the weather is good, they will be able to disembark at Hindon and explore the cosmos, unhindered by street lights, with the help of seasoned astronomers and state-of-the-art telescopes. If it proved to be too cloudy, Tūhura Otago Museum science communicators would also lead two interactive astronomy activities, which aimed to unlock some of the mysteries of the universe. About 120 people boarded the train at Dunedin Railway Station last night for the first sold-out tour. Lindsay Sinien, of France, said her partner Jurij Boccioli bought tickets for the ride as a surprise. "We love stargazing, so he booked the journey as a romantic surprise for me." Asked if an engagement ring might make a sparkling appearance during the trip, there was nervous laughter all around before Miss Sinien said, "No, not tonight — I don't think". The duo were looking forward to seeing the Milky Way, a distant galaxy, and maybe some of the planets in the solar system. The second Stargazer tour will be held on June 27, and has also sold out.
Yahoo
18-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Ohio weed festival offers the richest cannabis cup in US history
WAVERLY, Ohio, June 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Stargazer Cannabis Festival is making waves this summer by offering the largest cash prize ever awarded in a cannabis competition in the US: $2,500 cash, packed directly into the trophy and you won't believe the cost to enter. Hosted in collaboration with Big Cloud Presents — a production company known for pioneering some of the Midwest's most inspired and unforgettable events — the Cup unfolds at the boutique Stargazer Cannabis Festival (July 25–27), an immersive three-day celebration of cannabis culture, creativity, and community. Stargazer has become something of a grassroots phenomenon. After selling out last year and being forced to close the gates on Friday to anyone without a ticket, demand for 2025 has surged. Organizers are urging competitors and attendees alike to act early. This isn't your average cannabis competition. The Stargazer Cup unfolds live over the course of the weekend in what organizers describe as a "cannonball-style" competition — fast, immersive, and judged entirely on-site. Unlike traditional cups that stretch on for weeks behind closed doors, this one happens in real time, with transparency, energy, and audience buzz. To ensure integrity and diverse perspectives, Stargazer recently conducted a lottery-style drawing to select community judges — each of whom will receive $1,000 and free festival access to help determine the winners across multiple categories. "The Stargazer Cup was built to bring the competition back to the people," said Chad Thompson, organizer and Communications Director for Stargazer Cannabis Festival. "We're proud to be offering a cash prize this big — but even more proud that the winners will be chosen by real, everyday cannabis enthusiasts in front of a live audience. We wanted to make this very accessible to everyone, so it is only $50 to enter your sample. All growers should enter." Big Cloud Presents, whose reputation for immersive and innovative experiences has made them one of the Midwest's most respected event producers, is helping take Stargazer to the next level. "We knew right away this was something special," said a representative for Big Cloud. "Stargazer isn't just another cannabis festival — it's a creative force. We're thrilled to help make this Cup a landmark moment for the culture." The competition is open to growers, extract artists, and edible makers from across the U.S., with the top performer walking away not just with cash, but with bragging rights as the Cup champion at one of the most talked-about cannabis events in the country. Space is limited and entries are open can submit their registration and reserve a spot for just $50 at About Stargazer Cannabis Festival Stargazer is a boutique cannabis festival held on 70 wooded acres in Waverly, Ohio. Built on creativity, community, and connection, the event blends immersive art, live music, cannabis culture, and curated experiences into a one-of-a-kind weekend for cannabis lovers from all walks of life. About Big Cloud Presents Big Cloud Presents is a Michigan-based event production company known for its visionary approach to festivals, concerts, and cultural gatherings. With a deep commitment to creativity, community impact, and unforgettable atmospheres, Big Cloud delivers events that are as meaningful as they are memorable. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Stargazer Productions LLP Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Hindustan Times
16-06-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Recliners for maximum comfort: Grab up to 70% off on the top 8 picks during the Amazon Sale
After spending countless hours studying how people truly relax at home, I know one thing for certain, a good recliner changes everything. I have seen living rooms transformed with the right recliner sofa, turning dull corners into cosy retreats. With Amazon Sale throwing up tempting discounts, I couldn't resist curating my top picks for the best recliner and best recliner sofa options you can grab now. From sleek designs to plush, oversized pieces, each recliner on this list for the home promises comfort and style without draining your wallet. So, get ready to put your feet up and enjoy a slice of luxury that fits right into your daily life. These deals are just too good to miss. Among the recliners for homes I've studied and recommended, Wakefit's Stargazer feels like a safe bet for cosy corners. The rocking and revolving features make it fun, while the leatherette finish keeps upkeep minimal. It works well as a recliner sofa substitute if space is tight yet comfort is non-negotiable. It's a practical pick to explore during the Amazon Sale for a pocket-friendly upgrade. Wakefit Recliner | 3 Years Warranty | Leatherette Fabric Rocking & Revolving Recliner Sofa 1 Seater | Recliner Chair | Stargazer - Dark Fanatsy The Sleepyhead RX6 is a charming recliner for a home that brings in plush suede fabric, a snug high back and three comfy modes for all moods. I appreciate the smart pocket springs which give it that cosy bounce without feeling too soft. For a single recliner sofa vibe in compact flats, this is an easy pick to check on Amazon. The Amazon Sale makes this even sweeter for your pocket. Sleepyhead RX6 - Single Seater Suede Fabric Recliner (Mocha Brown) |3 Modes of Comfort |High Back Rest for Extra Neck & Lumbar Support | Premium Pocket Springs for Plush Feeling The Solimo Musca is a fuss-free recliner for a home that blends a soft fabric finish with sturdy build quality. I find its high back particularly inviting for lazy reading afternoons. It may not scream luxury, but for its price on Amazon, plus the extra savings during the Amazon Sale, it covers all the basics. This single recliner sofa idea works well for anyone who wants comfort without overthinking style. Amazon Brand - Solimo Musca 1 Seater Fabric Recliner (Brown) The Green Soul Comfy recliner sofa sits nicely in homes that crave a bit more bounce and plushness. Its rocking and revolving perks, plus the soft suede feel, give it an easygoing vibe I often recommend for reading nooks. Backed by a six-layer seat system, it keeps long hours comfy without fuss. During the Amazon Sale, this is one of the best recliner options to bag without guilt. Green Soul Comfy | Rocking, Revolving and Recline| 1 Seater Recliner Sofa with Soft Suede Fabric & Luxuriously Padded Body | 3 Years Warranty Color (Brown) | Installation Provided Nilkamal's Sierra recliner sofa blends a velvet touch with decent back support, making it a sensible recliner for home lounging. The soft foam layers and easy manual recline clipper make it perfect for unwinding without any fancy settings. It sits well in compact flats or bedrooms where space is tight yet comfort is key. With the Amazon Sale, this best recliner comes at a budget-friendly sweet spot. Nilkamal Sierra Velvet Fabric Manual Recliner | 1 Seater Sofa | Single Sofa Recliner | 1 Seater Chair Sofa | Brown (Grey) The Sleep Company's Luxe motorised recliner sofa brings SmartGRID tech into the living room. I find its gentle lumbar curve and plush suede finish a clever mix for modern flats. The electric push buttons make shifting from upright to nap mode feel almost indulgent. It's a refined pick for those who fancy an upgrade during the Amazon Sale. Hands down, one of the best recliner buys for snug evenings. The Sleep Company Luxe Motorised Standard Recliner | Patented SmartGRID Technology | Motorised Single Recliner Sofa | Unique Lumbar Design | Premium Upholstery | Grey The Duroflex Avalon recliner for home makes unwinding feel like second nature. Its resilient foam and plush polyfill keep the back and arms perfectly cushioned through endless binge-watching. I appreciate its three reclining angles which offer comfy neck and lumbar support without fuss. Wrapped in a durable fabric blend, this recliner sofa fits snugly into any reading nook. A smart pick during the Amazon Sale for easy relaxation. duroflex Avalon Fabric Single Seater Recliner in Twilight Blue Color The Solimo Stanovo 2-seater recliner brings effortless comfort to shared spaces. With its sturdy pine wood frame and sag-resistant zig-zag springs, it stays supportive no matter how many movie nights it hosts. I like its smooth fabric feel and roomy seating that doesn't compromise on style. This recliner sofa is a practical buy for couples or families wanting easy relaxation, especially when grabbed during the Amazon Sale. Amazon Brand - Solimo Stanovo Manual 2 Seater Fabric Recliner (Blue) Dinner sets: Top 8 picks to transform your table with style and function Best mattresses for a peaceful and comfortable sleep; Here are our top 8 picks for you Mattress matters: Find your dreamy match made in heaven; Nap like a champ! Single-seater recliners like the Sleepyhead RX6 or the Nilkamal Sierra are perfect picks for compact rooms. They don't eat up much space yet offer great neck and back support. If you love effortless comfort, motorised options like The Sleep Company Luxe Motorised Recliner are brilliant. With push-button reclining and SmartGRID support, it feels plush and modern. Absolutely! Amazon Sale events are the best time to grab big deals on recliners. Popular picks from Wakefit, Green Soul and Duroflex often have solid markdowns. For two people, the Amazon Brand - Solimo Stanovo 2-seater recliner is a sensible choice. It's roomy, sturdy and designed for comfort without fuss. The author of this article holds a Masters Degree in Interior Design and has spent over a decade in research, teaching, and designing homes from scratch. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
State, federal cannabis changes threaten Ohio festival's future
WAVERLY, Ohio (WCMH) — Several thousand marijuana enthusiasts will descend upon Waverly next month for the second annual Stargazer Cannabis Festival. It may also be the last. 'We're very sad about that fact, and it would be very ironic that this festival was conceived out of a celebration for legalization, and then ironically, the law will make it illegal,' festival organizer Chad Thompson said. Dispensary reacts to Ohio marijuana limit changes Thompson is concerned about changes to cannabis laws in consideration at the state and federal level that would minimize or eliminate the three-day cannabis festival. Ohio lawmakers have weighed multiple changes to Ohio's recreational marijuana laws, which passed in 2023 with 57% of the vote. Federally, a provision currently included in the 'Big Beautiful Bill' would prohibit most products that use hemp-derived THC. Under the new federal proposal, the U.S. would redefine which hemp products are legal. Hemp was redefined in President Donald Trump's first term to mean cannabis that has minimal THC levels, 0.3% or lower. People have used this definition to synthetically manufacture cannabis products that are both legal and intoxicating. The budget draft would ban those hemp products, making ingestible hemp federally illegal again. 'There is an effort to eliminate that segment of the hemp market, which would really give a big hit to hemp businesses and us, as a cannabis festival, also would be greatly impacted by that,' Thompson said. 'It would take a big portion of our vendors and make them illegal.' Black bear spotted in Licking County for the first time in over two decades Thompson said changes to cannabis law would significantly harm Ohio's emerging marijuana industry, which is on track to be a $2 billion market. Among higher taxes and a decreased legal maximum THC level, legislators have also considered a ban on ingesting cannabis in public spaces, which would largely prevent the festival from taking place. Thompson said if the state changes cannabis laws, Stargazer Festival will have to consider relocating to a 'friendlier state,' taking its business with it. The festival will nearly double the population of Waverly for the weekend, and Thompson said visitors are coming from 35 states. 'This festival this year will cost us close to $200,000 to organize and put on, and that's all revenue that is being filtered in the state down through porta potties, tent rentals, local performers,' Thompson said. More than 400,000 Ohioans see driver's license suspensions lifted Thompson said he does not want to move the festival, saying it would be a 'sad day' if they had to leave their home state. Stargazer began as a celebration for Ohio activists after voters successfully legalized recreational marijuana. As part of the celebratory mission, many festival events involve giveaways for festival attendees, including a $1,000 bonus for five randomly selected cannabis judges and a giveaway dream cannabis wedding officiated by Afroman. Thompson said as this July 25-27 may be the last festival, people should get their tickets ahead of time, as they will likely be sold out at the door. He said he and other advocates are prepared to rally and adjust, but hope the laws will stay favorable. 'Even after legalization, the fight is not done to ensure the best possible cannabis laws on the books for the greater good of the people currently and into the future,' Thompson said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Daily Mail
28-05-2025
- Science
- Daily Mail
Supersonic jet set to release in 2030 will take passengers from New York to London in less than 60 minutes
Supersonic travel is moving closer to reality, after a successful test by a Texas startup that could one day fly passengers from New York to Paris in just 55 minutes. Venus Aerospace completed the world's first atmospheric test of a rotating detonation rocket engine (RDRE), a breakthrough propulsion system that uses spinning explosions instead of steady combustion to generate thrust. The test took place on Wednesday, May 14, at Spaceport America in New Mexico, where a small rocket equipped with the new engine lifted off at 7:37am local time. Venus CEO Sassie Duggleby said: 'This is the moment we've been working toward for five years.' The company plans to use the engine for its upcoming hypersonic jet, Stargazer, which is expected to reach Mach 4 (3,069 mph), four times the speed of sound. If approved for commercial travel, the $33 million jet could complete the 3,625-mile journey between New York and Paris in under an hour, nearly three times faster than the Concorde, which flew at 1,354 mph. The current flight takes about eight hours. Venus Aerospace aims to launch the aircraft in the early 2030s, with plans to carry up to 12 passengers per flight. Compared to traditional rocket engines, RDREs offer improved efficiency and compactness, making them particularly suited for advanced aerospace applications. 'We've proven that this technology works—not just in simulations or the lab, but in the air,' Duggleby said. 'With this milestone, we're one step closer to making high-speed flight accessible, affordable, and sustainable.' Theorized since the 1980s, a high-thrust RDRE capable of practical application has never been flown in a real-world test. Andrew Duggleby, Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, said: 'Rotating detonation has been a long-sought gain in performance. 'Venus' RDRE solved the last but critical steps to harness the theoretical benefits of pressure gain combustion. We've built an engine that not only runs, but runs reliably and efficiently—and that's what makes it scalable. 'This is the foundation we need that, combined with a ramjet, completes the system from take-off to sustained hypersonic flight.' Venus's RDRE is also engineered to work with the company's exclusive VDR2 air-breathing detonation ramjet, an advanced propulsion system. If approved for commercial travel, the $33 million jet could complete the 3,625-mile journey between New York and Paris in under an hour, nearly three times faster than the Concorde, which flew at 1,354 mph It uses rotating detonation technology to achieve extremely high speeds, potentially Mach 5, which is five times the speed of sound or more. It pulls in air from the atmosphere instead of carrying oxygen onboard like a rocket does. Instead of slow burning, it relies on supersonic shock waves from detonations to move air and fuel through the engine rapidly. 'This pairing enables aircraft to take off from a runway and transition to speeds exceeding Mach 6, maintaining hypersonic cruise without the need for rocket boosters,' Venus shared in a statement. 'Venus is planning full-scale propulsion testing and vehicle integration of this system, moving toward their ultimate goal: the Stargazer M4, a Mach 4 reusable passenger aircraft.' If Stargazer comes to fruition, it will be the first passenger-carrying commercial airplane to go faster than the speed of sound since Concorde. Retired more than 20 years ago, Concorde flew at a maximum altitude of 60,000 feet. According to Venus Aerospace, its upcoming plane will not only be faster but will fly higher – up to 110,000 feet. Just like Concorde passengers almost a quarter of a century ago, Stargazer passengers will be high enough to see the curvature of Earth. This is where the horizon is a slight curve rather than a straight line, normally seen from 50,000 feet.
