Leading SC Manufacturer Announces Expanded Operations and Job Creation in Rock Hill

PDM US, a global copper tube manufacturer, today announced the grand opening of its expanded operations in Rock Hill, SC. PDM prides itself on using innovation, quality, and imagination to deliver the highest quality products in the copper tube industry. With their $18.5 million expansion, PDM is the only fully integrated insulated copper tube manufacturer in the United States. Using state of the art precision technology, PDM’s new process begins with raw copper cathode and culminates with the only UL certified, pre-insulated copper tube in the U.S.

As part of this investment, PDM has expanded its facility by an additional 20,000 square feet, allowing for a more stream-lined operation. Their new technology will allow PDM to cast its copper tubing in-house using only American-made parts for production. PDM believes that it can continue to reach new heights without conforming to traditional industrial expectations; they see the beauty in creating products with masterful production and proficiency.

“This is an exciting day for the entire PDM team as we complete the expansion of our global headquarters and operations in Rock Hill, South Carolina,” states PDM US President and Chief Executive Officer, Pasquale De Martino. “We are excited to offer the best, most cutting-edge manufacturing technology and machinery in the world to build the highest quality, American-made copper tubes for years to come. Thanks to South Carolina’s favorable industrial environment, we have been able to become a magnet for people who bring their precious gifts to a place where values, vitality and strengths are welcomed and appreciated. All together we are writing a page in the book of the American industry. The best is yet to come!”

In 2013, PDM relocated its world headquarters and main production plant to Rock Hill, South Carolina. Having its global headquarters in this area makes PDM ideally situated to serve the United States, Canada, Mexico, South America, and Europe with its industry-leading products. As the manufacturing industry continues to expand worldwide, PDM is equipped to handle the increasing volume and demand for both residential and commercial uses.

To learn more about PDM US, its product offerings and current job openings, click here.

Forrest Gump, Hunger Games Among Top 10 Movies Shot in NC

New York and California seem to get all the shine when it comes to the silver screen, but that’s simply not true. Plenty of iconic films have been shot all over the United States, and North Carolina is no exception.
Using IMDb rating, Rotten Tomatoes Audience and Critics’ Scores, and Oscars recognition to create a point system, here are the rankings of the top 10 movies shot in the Tar Heel State.
Here’s the full ranking:

Topping the charts is the timeless classic, “Forrest Gump.” Although the movie captures the essence of America’s vast cultural landscape, it’s interesting to note that Alabama, Forrest’s home state, was actually represented by the picturesque trio of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. With its enduring charm, “Forrest Gump” likely reigns as the most popular film in those states too.

North Carolina’s breathtaking beauty takes center stage, particularly during the unforgettable montage where Forrest embarks on a seemingly endless run. Accompanied by fitting classic rock anthems like “Running on Empty” by Jackson Browne and Fleetwood Mac’s “Go Your Own Way,” Forrest traverses iconic North Carolina landmarks, including Grandfather Mountain, Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge.

Securing the second spot is Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “The Color Purple.” The film marks Spielberg’s foray into more serious filmmaking, and its complex reputation continues to provoke discussion today. While some criticize the visceral portrayal of the challenges faced by African American women, the film is undeniably significant for launching Whoopi Goldberg’s career.

Set in Georgia during the early 20th century, “The Color Purple” was primarily filmed in the idyllic locations of North Carolina’s Anson and Union Counties. The historic Bennett Place, which served as the setting for the abusive Mister’s home, played by Danny Glover, is a noteworthy location that can be visited even today. This former farm and homestead of James C. Bennett also holds historical significance as the site of the largest troop surrender of the Civil War on April 26, 1865, effectively marking the end of the war.

To see more movies shot in NC, check out our list of the top ten movies shot around the Charlotte area here.

What’s your favorite movie shot in NC? 

Democrat From Charlotte’s District 112 Switching To Republican – Giving NC House Veto-Proof Supermajority

Representative Tricia Cotham, who was elected to the NC House as a Democrat this past November, just announced that she is switching her party affiliation to Republican, giving Republicans in North Carolina a veto-proof supermajority in both the Senate and now the House.

Cotham defeated Republican Tony Long by an 18 point margin in the November 8th election and officially assumed office on January 1st, 2023.

During a press conference at the NC GOP, Representative Cotham said, “The modern day Democratic Party has become unrecognizable to me… If you don’t do exactly what the Democrats want you to do, they will try to bully you. They will try to cast you aside.”

NC Democratic party leaders are now calling for Cotham to resign after they funded much of her campaign.

What do you think about Rep Cotham’s decision?

This Is Officially The Grossest Food In North Carolina

One of North Carolina’s most legendary dishes was ranked by Thrillist as the “grossest” food, which is honestly hard to deny when you consider what’s in it.

Livermush, the North Carolina staple, was ranked as our state’s grosses, primarily due to it’s ingredients, as well as how it looks, and smells, and tastes:

According to the writers at Thrillist, “it never had a chance. It’s called… livermush…And shockingly, livermush is not grosser than the sum of its parts. Pig liver, head parts, and cornmeal make up these little bars that look like burnt Pop-Tarts. It might be a southern staple, but from the outside looking in, it’s the world’s most nauseating door stop.”

They also named the grossest food in South Carolina “chitterlings“. I gotta admit, I’ve eaten a livermush sandwich before, and did kinda enjoy it, but chitterlings are crossing the line for me.

“Oh, whatever. You eat intestines when you eat hot dogs. So why do outsiders wince when they’re served up alongside delicious Lowcountry fare (and also in most legit soul food joints)? Oh, right. Because their straight-up intestines, fried or boiled.”

Have you ever had Livermush or chitterlings before? 

Do you think they should be considered the grossest food in the Carolinas? 

Exploring the Different Payment Options Available at Online Casinos

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Online casinos are becoming increasingly popular and more and more people are opting to try their luck at them. However, one of the most important things to consider when signing up for an online casino is the payment options available. Depending on the country you live in, different payment methods may be available. But regardless of where you reside, there are some common payment options that can be found in almost all online casinos.

Payment options offered

With the rise of online casinos, more and more people are looking for convenient and secure ways to make their deposits and withdrawals. In order to meet this demand, many online casinos now offer a variety of payment options that allow players to easily manage their funds. From credit cards to digital wallets, here are some popular payment methods being used when playing best online casino real money games.

1. Credit Card: One of the most popular payment methods used at online casinos is credit cards. Credit cards are fast, secure, and widely accepted by most online casinos. Players can use their credit card to make deposits and withdrawals quickly and easily.

2. E-Wallets: Another popular payment option at online casinos is e-wallets. E-wallets allow players to securely store funds in an account that can be accessed via the internet. This makes it easy for players to transfer money between accounts and make deposits and withdrawals quickly and easily. Many e-wallet providers also offer additional features such as refunds, loyalty programs, and other incentives that can be beneficial to players.

3. Cryptocurrency: Cryptocurrency has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its security, low transaction fees and offering an anonymous way to make payments. Many online casinos now accept cryptocurrency payments which allows players to deposit funds directly into their casino account without having to go through a third party processor or bank account. This makes it easier for players to manage their funds without worrying about security issues or high fees associated with traditional payment methods like credit cards or bank transfers.

4. Bank Transfer: Bank transfers are another payment option available at online casinos. Players can make deposits and withdrawals directly from their bank account without having to use a third party processor or e-wallet. This is one of the most secure payment methods available, as players can rest assured that their funds are safe and secure. However, bank transfers may take longer for processing than other payment methods due to the extra security measures involved.

Risks associated with using an online casino to make payments?

Online casinos are becoming increasingly popular for players looking to enjoy a casino experience from the comfort of their own home. However, there are some risks associated with using an online casino to make payments, so it’s important to understand these before you start playing.

The most common risk is that your payment information could be stolen by hackers or other malicious actors. A secure online casino will use the latest encryption technology to keep your data safe, but if you choose one without this security measure in place, then your payment details could be vulnerable. It’s also possible that an online casino could be a scam and not offer fair games or pay out winnings as promised.

To avoid this issue, make sure to do research on any online casino before signing up and making a deposit. Additionally, always read through the terms and conditions carefully before agreeing to anything so that you know exactly what you’re getting into.

Finally, never play at an online casino if it doesn’t have a valid gambling license from a reputable regulator – this will ensure that the games are fair and your money is protected should something go wrong.

Understanding the security measures involved in making a payment at an online casino

When making payments online, especially at a casino site, understanding the security measures involved is of utmost importance. The best online casinos take security and safety seriously and have adopted several measures to ensure that your transactions are secure and your personal information remains private.

The first measure that most online casinos employ is SSL encryption technology, which scrambles your data while it’s being sent between you and the casino server. This prevents malicious third parties from intercepting any of your sensitive information during transit. Additionally, reputable online casinos also use firewalls to protect their servers from unauthorized access or intrusion attempts by hackers.

Another important security measure taken by most reliable gambling sites is identity verification processes. These involve requiring players to provide documents such as a government-issued ID or passport in order to verify their identity before allowing them to deposit money or withdraw winnings from their accounts.

Finally, many of the top-rated casino sites also use third-party payment processing services like PayPal or Skrill for additional protection against fraud and theft. These services add an extra layer of security by verifying all transactions with two-factor authentication protocols before allowing them to be processed successfully.

Get Money Quickly: The Benefits of Online Payday Loans in Canada

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If you’re in need of quick cash, online payday loans Canada can be a helpful solution. These loans have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and speed. we’ll explore the benefits of online payday loans Canada and how they can provide the funds you need in a pinch.

Fast and Convenient

One of the biggest advantages of online payday loans Canada is their speed and convenience. Unlike traditional loans that can take weeks to process, online payday loans can be approved and funded within hours. The application process is done online, and the requirements are minimal, making it easy to apply from the comfort of your home.

Once approved, the money is directly deposited into your bank account, making it easily accessible. The speed and convenience of online payday loans Canada make them an attractive option for those who need money quickly.

Minimal Requirements

Another benefit of online payday loans Canada is that the requirements are minimal. You only need a steady source of income and a bank account to qualify for a loan. This makes online payday loans Canada a viable option for those with bad credit or no credit history.

Traditional loans often require collateral or a high credit score, making them inaccessible to some people. With online payday loans Canada, you can get the money you need without having to go through a lengthy application process.

Flexibility

Online payday loans Canada are also flexible, allowing you to choose the loan amount and repayment terms that work best for your situation. This means you can customize your loan to fit your financial needs and ensure that you can repay it without difficulty.

Many online payday loan lenders offer multiple repayment options, such as automatic payments or a payment plan. This flexibility enables you to choose the repayment option that’s most convenient for you and helps you stay on top of your payments.

No Restrictions

Another advantage of payday loans in Illinois is that there are no restrictions on how you can use the money. You can use the funds for whatever you need, whether it’s paying bills, covering unexpected expenses, or buying groceries.

Unlike traditional loans, which may require you to specify how you’ll use the funds, online payday loans Canada give you control over your finances. This flexibility allows you to use the money where it’s most needed.

Regulated Industry

In Canada, online payday loan lenders are regulated by the government to protect borrowers from predatory lending practices. This means lenders must follow strict rules and regulations regarding interest rates, fees, and other loan terms.

This regulation ensures that borrowers aren’t taken advantage of by lenders who may charge excessive fees or interest rates. It also ensures that lenders are transparent about their loan terms, and borrowers understand the terms of the loan before agreeing to it.

Available 24/7

Online payday loans Canada are available 24/7, making it easy to get the cash you need at any time. Whether you need money in the middle of the night or on the weekend, online payday loans Canada can provide the funds you need.

This availability also means you can apply for a loan from anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection. This is especially useful for those who live in remote areas or cannot leave their homes due to illness or disability.

Conclusion

Online payday loans Canada provide a quick and convenient way to get money when you need it. They offer speed and convenience, minimal requirements, flexibility, no restrictions on how you can use the money, regulation to protect borrowers, and 24/7 availability.

However, it’s essential to remember that online payday loans Canada should be used responsibly and for emergency situations only. If you’re struggling with debt or financial difficulties, seek help from a financial advisor or credit counselor.

Silicon Valley’s SoFi Taking Over Charlotte’s Wyndham Capitol in All-Cash Buyout

Less than a week after North Carolina’s First Citizens Bank announced plans to buy Silicon Valley Bank, Silicon Valley’s SoFi Technologies (currently valued at $4.5 billion) announced they will buy one of Charlotte’s largest banks – Wyndham Capital Mortgage Company.

Since CEO Jeff Douglas first launched the company in 2001, Wyndham Capitol has helped over 60,000 customers secure $18 billion in mortgage loans, steadily growing to become one of the nation’s top fintech mortgage lenders.

SoFi plans to fully integrate all of Wyndham’s talent and unique all-digital mortgage technology into their growing suite of financial offerings.

“Several macro- and socioeconomic factors – high inflation and rising mortgage rates, the new world of work, and others – have ushered in a new era across the U.S. real estate market. These changing conditions mean it’s more important than ever that borrowers have a trusted partner they can look to as they go through the process of obtaining a mortgage for a home,” SoFi CEO Anthony Noto said in a press release. “Today’s acquisition of Wyndham Capital will not only allow us to scale and keep pace with accelerated growth, but also allow us to foster that growth in a way that brings value to our members through sales and operational efficiencies and helps members get their money right when it comes to one of life’s most significant financial milestones.”

What do you think about the deal?

CMPD Issues City-Wide Warning About String Of Robberies Targeting Hispanic Victims

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CMPD has just issued a warning to all Hispanic residents in our city to be extra vigilant after a string of robberies was found to have specifically targeted those in the Hispanic community.

Their official statement reads, “CMPD is investigating recent robberies targeting Hispanic victims. Since April 1, there have been at least 11 incidents spanning several divisions including Eastway, Hickory Grove, Independence & North.”

On Twitter they urge residents to “Try to park in well-lit areas & avoid congregating in parking lots, especially late at night. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and be aware of your surroundings. If you see anything suspicious, say something and call 9-1-1.”

North Carolina Is 2023’s 9th Most Financially Literate State

With April being National Financial Literacy Month and less than half of adults setting a budget, WalletHub today released its report on 2023’s Most & Least Financially Literate States, which analyzes financial-education programs and consumer habits in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia, along with expert commentary.

The study uses a data set of 17 key metrics, which range from high-school financial literacy grade to the share of adults with a rainy-day fund.

The Tar Heel State was ranked as the 9th best state in the nation, with our southern neighbor ranking as one of the worst in the nation at #45.

Financial Literacy in North Carolina (1=Most Financially Literate, 25=Avg.):

  • 14th – % of Adults Aged 18+ Who Spend More than They Earn
  • 20th – % of Unbanked Households
  • 30th – % of Adults Aged 18+ Who Compare Credit Cards Before Applying
  • 1st – High-School Financial Literacy Grade
  • 22nd – Public High-School Graduation Rate

Most Financially Literate States

Overall Rank  State Total Score  WalletLiteracy  Financial Planning & Habits  Financial Knowledge & Education 
1 Nebraska 69.06 30 3 7
2 Utah 68.54 11 2 32
3 Virginia 68.41 12 1 36
4 Colorado 68.40 2 8 8
5 Minnesota 67.86 1 10 10
6 Iowa 67.12 32 6 12
7 Washington 66.68 3 11 13
8 Maine 65.64 24 15 1
9 North Carolina 65.44 37 4 34
10 Ohio 65.13 42 5 27
11 Wisconsin 64.69 4 24 6
12 Maryland 64.28 14 20 11
13 Vermont 63.84 23 23 5
14 Massachusetts 63.57 7 19 25
15 New Hampshire 63.21 9 35 3
16 New Jersey 63.01 25 21 15
17 Illinois 62.58 28 14 28
18 Delaware 62.15 10 22 29
19 North Dakota 61.53 16 25 26
20 Missouri 61.32 44 7 43
21 Pennsylvania 61.28 21 27 22
22 Oregon 61.06 19 12 46
23 Kansas 61.05 35 28 14
24 Texas 60.84 36 13 42
25 Michigan 60.52 26 31 20
26 Indiana 60.52 40 16 35
27 Montana 60.37 38 42 2
28 Rhode Island 60.33 18 29 30
29 Hawaii 60.17 6 41 21
30 Alabama 59.96 41 9 47
31 Florida 59.62 15 30 41
32 Wyoming 59.61 29 47 4
33 Arizona 59.43 33 37 18
34 New York 58.75 17 44 23
35 Idaho 58.69 20 34 38
36 California 58.44 5 43 39
37 District of Columbia 58.21 13 48 19
38 Tennessee 58.13 39 17 48
39 Georgia 57.40 43 32 37
40 Alaska 57.26 22 51 9
41 Connecticut 57.09 8 33 49
42 Nevada 57.03 31 36 44
43 West Virginia 56.90 47 38 24
44 South Dakota 56.45 27 50 17
45 South Carolina 55.85 34 46 31
46 Kentucky 55.73 46 18 51
47 Mississippi 55.56 51 26 33
48 Oklahoma 54.24 50 40 40
49 New Mexico 54.13 49 49 16
50 Louisiana 53.18 48 39 45
51 Arkansas 51.00 45 45 50

Note: With the exception of “Total Score,” all of the columns in the table above depict the relative rank of that state, where a rank of 1 represents the best conditions for that metric category.

How can Charlotte become a better attraction for tourists?

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Tourism is an essential driver of economic growth, providing a major source of employment, revenue, and foreign exchange. In the United States, the travel and tourism industry generated $1.1 trillion in economic output and supported 9.2 million jobs in 2019 alone. Charlotte, North Carolina, has great potential to become a major tourist destination due to its vibrant culture, diverse attractions, and growing economy.

Currently, Charlotte attracts a significant number of visitors due to its museums, galleries, parks, and sporting events, such as the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the Carolina Panthers football team. However, Charlotte still lags behind other major cities in terms of overall tourist appeal. To truly stand out as a tourist destination, Charlotte needs to explore innovative ideas that can set it apart from other cities.

One potential idea that could make Charlotte a more attractive destination for tourists is incorporating gambling into its attractions. Gambling has long been a popular form of entertainment and has become a significant part of tourism in many cities. By adding gambling establishments to its attractions, Charlotte could attract a new demographic of tourists who are interested in gambling, thereby increasing its overall tourism appeal and economic growth potential.

However, it is important to note that there are potential drawbacks to gambling, such as addiction and social harm, that should be carefully considered and addressed. Nonetheless, if properly managed, gambling could be a significant boon to Charlotte’s tourism industry and overall economic growth.

Current State of Tourism in Charlotte

Charlotte has a lot to offer tourists with its rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and diverse range of attractions. However, while it is a popular destination for business travelers, Charlotte is still in the process of establishing itself as a major tourist destination.

In 2019, Charlotte welcomed 29.7 million visitors, generating $8.7 billion in tourism spending. This represents a growth of 3.1% over the previous year. However, compared to other major cities like New York, Las Vegas, or Orlando, Charlotte still has a long way to go in terms of attracting tourists.

Charlotte has a number of popular attractions that draw in visitors from around the world. These include:

  • NASCAR Hall of Fame: A museum dedicated to the history and culture of NASCAR, one of the most popular forms of motorsport in the United States.
  • Discovery Place Science: A museum that features interactive exhibits and displays about science, technology, engineering, and math.

Carowinds: An amusement park with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages.

  • The Mint Museum: A museum with a diverse collection of American, European, and contemporary art.
  • The Charlotte Motor Speedway: A racetrack that hosts NASCAR races and other motorsport events.
  • U.S. National Whitewater Center: An outdoor recreation center that offers a variety of water and land-based activities, such as kayaking, rafting, and zip-lining.

While Charlotte has a lot to offer tourists, there are still some challenges that need to be addressed to attract more visitors. These include:

  • Lack of brand recognition: Charlotte is not as well-known as other major cities in the United States, and many people may not be aware of its attractions and amenities.
  • Limited international connectivity: Charlotte Douglas International Airport, while a major hub for domestic flights, has limited direct flights to international destinations, making it difficult for tourists from outside the country to visit.
  • Lack of diversity in tourism offerings: While Charlotte has a variety of attractions, there is still room for expansion and diversification of its tourism offerings to appeal to a wider range of visitors.

Addressing these challenges could help to establish Charlotte as a major tourist destination and increase its appeal to a wider range of visitors.

The Benefits of Gambling Tourism

Incorporating gambling into Charlotte’s attractions could offer several benefits to the city, including economic and social advantages.

Gambling tourism has the potential to stimulate economic growth and generate significant revenue. With gambling sites becoming increasingly popular across the United States, Charlotte has an opportunity to capitalize on this trend and attract visitors who are interested in gambling. In addition to direct revenue generated by gambling establishments, gambling tourism can also create indirect revenue streams for local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This can lead to job creation and increased spending in the local economy, making Charlotte a more attractive destination for both tourists and investors.

Many cities across the United States, such as Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and Reno, have built their tourism industries around gambling. These cities have established themselves as top tourist destinations, with a wide range of casinos and gambling establishments attracting millions of visitors each year. By incorporating gambling into its attractions, Charlotte could follow in their footsteps and become a significant player in the gambling tourism industry.

Gambling tourism can also have social benefits for a city. By creating a new form of entertainment, gambling establishments can attract a diverse range of visitors, including those who may not be interested in other attractions in Charlotte. This can lead to increased cultural exchange and a broader exposure to different ways of life. Additionally, gambling establishments can provide a safe and regulated environment for gambling, which can help to reduce the negative effects associated with illegal gambling, such as crime and addiction.

Overall, gambling tourism has the potential to bring significant economic and social benefits to Charlotte. By carefully managing and regulating the industry, Charlotte can attract a new demographic of visitors and establish itself as a major player in the tourism industry. For those interested in exploring the best sites in Charlotte, there are several online resources available that offer comprehensive reviews of local casinos and gambling establishments.

Incorporating Gambling into Charlotte’s Attractions

Charlotte has the potential to attract a new demographic of tourists by incorporating gambling into its attractions. There are several types of gambling that could be introduced to the city, including:

  • Casino gaming: This includes traditional casino games like blackjack, poker, roulette, and slot machines. Casinos could be built in strategic locations around the city to attract visitors.
  • Sports betting: With the recent legalization of sports betting in many states across the US, Charlotte could potentially establish itself as a sports betting destination. This could include sportsbooks located in existing entertainment venues, such as bars and restaurants.
  • Online gambling: While not a physical attraction, online gambling could be a way for Charlotte to tap into the growing trend of remote gambling. By partnering with online gambling sites, Charlotte could provide a seamless and convenient way for visitors to gamble from the comfort of their hotel rooms or homes.

Potential locations for gambling establishments in Charlotte could include:

  • Uptown Charlotte: This area is already home to many entertainment venues and hotels, making it a prime location for a casino or sportsbook.
  • The NASCAR Hall of Fame: This location could be expanded to include a casino or sportsbook, capitalizing on the popularity of NASCAR and motorsports.
  • The Charlotte Convention Center: With its large indoor space and central location, the convention center could potentially host events such as poker tournaments or trade shows for the gambling industry.

The potential impact of incorporating gambling into Charlotte’s attractions could be significant. By attracting a new demographic of tourists interested in gambling, Charlotte could increase its tourism revenue and become a more prominent player in the tourism industry. However, it is important to carefully manage the industry to ensure that it does not have negative effects on the city’s residents, such as addiction or increased crime rates. Regulatory measures should be put in place to ensure that gambling establishments operate responsibly and do not have a negative impact on the surrounding community. Overall, incorporating gambling into Charlotte’s attractions has the potential to be a positive step forward for the city’s tourism industry, but it must be done thoughtfully and responsibly.

Overall

In conclusion, Charlotte has the potential to become a major player in the tourism industry by incorporating gambling into its attractions. By providing a new form of entertainment, Charlotte can attract a diverse range of visitors and generate significant revenue for the city. However, it is important to carefully manage the industry to ensure that it does not have negative impacts on the surrounding community. With proper regulation and management, gambling can bring many economic and social benefits to Charlotte. It is worth exploring the potential of incorporating gambling into Charlotte’s attractions and investing in this industry to make the city a more attractive destination for tourists from all over the world.