Lodhie told viewers that light-emitting diodes hold tremendous promise for a world that faces diminishing energy resources. "LED bulbs are the most ideal complements to alternative energy solutions, as they make perfect use of the relatively small amounts of power generated by such sources as wind, solar and tides," said Lodhie, who the anchor introduced as an innovator intent on "reinventing the light bulb."
Lodhie cited a recent example where LEDtronics became involved in a project for Lockheed Martin to develop special-wavelength LED outdoor streetlights that minimise the potential for impacts to sea turtles nesting on Florida beaches, while still providing for adequate night-time highway/walkway safety lighting. "We literally created this brand new niche that is called LED light bulbs over 25 years ago," Lodhie said. "It is no surprise that we would be able to find a solution to such an illumination-related environmental problem in only two weeks."
Shading It - Procol Harum's A Whiter Shade of Pale is the most played song in public places in the last 75 years, according to a chart compiled for BBC Radio 2. The song, with its distinctive organ riff, stayed at number one for six weeks in the UK in the summer of 1967. Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody was at number two followed by All I Have To Do Is Dream by the Everly Brothers. There was no place in the top 10 for The Beatles. The UK chart, presented by Rob Brydon, was compiled by licensing firm PPL.
Animal Welfare News - Pop group Pet Shop Boys have revealed they have turned down a request by animal rights group Peta to rename themselves the Rescue Shelter Boys. "Peta Europe has written to Pet Shop Boys with a request they are unable to agree to," reads a post on the band's official website. But the band admits the request "raises an issue worth thinking about". Peta's letter requests the name change because of the cruelty it alleges takes place in the pet trade. If the band were to agree to the name change, it continues, it would "encourage your millions of fans to consider giving a home to an abandoned or unwanted animal from an animal shelter".
Spector Guilty - Music producer Phil Spector has been convicted of murdering actress Lana Clarkson, after a five-month retrial. The 68-year-old, famous for the Wall of Sound recording technique, faces between 15 years and life in prison. He had pleaded not guilty to the second degree murder of 40-year-old Ms Clarkson, who was shot in the mouth at Spector's home in Los Angeles. Spector was remanded in custody until sentencing on 29 May. His lawyer has said he intends to appeal. "I don't think justice was done today," said lawyer Doron Weinberg.
Farewell - One of the most influential figures in Manchester's music scene has died. Professional saxophonist Johnny Roadhouse senior, who was behind the famous music shop on Oxford Road, died in the early hours of Saturday aged 88. The Johnny Roadhouse store has served famous customers, including Oasis and Joy Division, over the past 50 years. A tribute on the store's website said: "He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all his family, friends and staff." His son Johnny said the shop would remain open.
(Jim Evans)
