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“That the world’s first e-mail was sent from a picnic table outside at Zott’s goes well with the rest of Silicon Valley lore, like the founding of Hewlett-Packard in one garage and Apple in another,” Paul Goldberger writes for Vanity Fair. “Most of Silicon Valley is suburban sprawl, plain and simple, its main artery a wide boulevard called El Camino Real that might someday possess some degree of urban density but now could be on the outskirts of Phoenix. Zott’s is what passes for local color, but even this spirited roadhouse has a certain generic look to it. You could imagine it being almost anywhere out West, the same way that so much of Silicon Valley looks like generic suburbia.”
“And even after a few people began doing unusual things in their garages, and other people started inventing things in the university’s laboratories, and even after some of these turned into the beginnings of large corporations, some of which became successful beyond anyone’s imagination—even these things didn’t make Silicon Valley look all that different from everyplace else,” Goldberger writes. “The tech companies got bigger and bigger, but that has generally just meant that the sprawl sprawled farther. There was certainly nothing about the physical appearance of these few square miles that told you it was the place that had generated more wealth than anywhere else in our time.”
“Until now, that is. In June of 2011, four months before his death, Steve Jobs appeared before the City Council of Cupertino, where Apple’s headquarters are located. It was the last public appearance Jobs would make, and if it did not have quite the orchestrated panache of his carefully staged product unveilings in San Francisco, it was fixed even more on the future than the latest iPhone,” Goldberger writes. “Jobs was presenting the designs for a new headquarters building that Apple proposed to build, and that the City Council would have to approve. It was a structure unlike any other that his company, or any other in the world, had ever built: a glass building in the shape of a huge ring, 1,521 feet in diameter (or nearly five football fields), and its circumference would curve for nearly a mile. It was designed by Sir Norman Foster, the British-born architect known for the elegance of his work and for the uncompromising nature of his sleek, modern aesthetic—close to Jobs’s own. In a community that you could almost say has prided itself on its indifference to architecture, Apple, which had already changed the nature of consumer products, seemed now to want to try to do nothing less than change Silicon Valley’s view of what buildings should be.”
“Tim Tosta, a San Francisco land-use and environmental lawyer sees the Valley as having no choice but to become gradually more city-like. For better or worse, though, it is the two most architecturally ambitious projects, Foster’s Apple spaceship and Gehry’s Facebook workroom under a garden, that will define the region’s architecture for the next decade. It’s notable that when Silicon Valley finally felt ready to up the architectural ante it went to two of the most established brand names in the business. While neither building is conservative by any standard, neither Foster nor Gehry represents the kind of commitment to being at the cutting edge that these companies try to maintain on the technology front,” Goldberger writes. “It would be intriguing to imagine what architects a generation or two behind Foster, who is 78, and Gehry, who is 84, would have come up with if they had been asked to think about the problem of an office of the future for a company of the future.”
Tones more in the full article – recommended – here.


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Troy Gunner and Mark Broom 'Get Loud' on new single
It is slated for release via Dext Recordings on September 13
Dext Recordings have announced the latest entry in their Two-on-One 10" vinyl DEXT Limited series: a collaboration between Berlin-based producer Troy Gunner and UK techno legend, Mark Broom.
Troy Gunner provides a storming cut on the A-side, the appropriately titled, 'Get Loud', while Broom's remix is featured on the B-side
As the series title infers, the track will be available as a limited-press, 10" vinyl and digitally. It is the label's first release since they put out Otik's 'Dioxide' EP in June.
You can pre-order the project - which is due for release on September 13 - on Bandcamp.
James Ball is Mixmag's Weekend Editor. Follow him on Twitter
Read this next!
DEXT Recordings to release EP from Otik next month
Mark Broom takes the reins for the next M-Plant EP
Premiere: Troy Gunner 'Stay Where You Are'

domain: news


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Helldivers 2 Sales Surpass Expectations
Helldivers 2 is poised to become one of the standout games of 2024, with estimated sales exceeding 8 million copies on both PS5 and PC. While official figures have yet to be disclosed by Arrowhead Game Studios or Sony Interactive Entertainment, it is believed that the game’s sales continue to climb each week.
Positive Sales Growth Continues
Market research analyst Doug Creutz recently remarked that Helldivers 2 has experienced steady growth in sales since its launch. According to Creutz, the game has sold over 8 million copies and shows no signs of slowing down in popularity.
Arrowhead Game Studios’ CEO Johan Pilestedt initially confirmed sales of around 1 million copies within the first four days of release. Pilestedt expressed that the game exceeded expectations, and it now appears that Helldivers 2 is on track to be a surprise hit of 2024. The game’s dominance in the February 2024 PS Store downloads is also indicative of its success.
Exciting Updates Await Players
Players can look forward to a series of free post-launch updates for Helldivers 2, with the introduction of the EXO-45 Patriot Exosuits being the first in line. Future updates will bring new tools, challenges, threats, and premium content like Warbonds, all designed to enhance the gameplay experience without implementing a pay-to-win system.
Official Merchandise Launches
Sony is taking advantage of the game’s popularity by releasing a range of official Helldivers 2 merchandise, including apparel and accessories. Fans can purchase items from the collection at the PlayStation Gear store in Europe, the United States, and Latin America.


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Having ruled the 90s and desperately tried to cling on to glory ever since, the Backstreet Boys are looking to get back to the top once more.
Despite having sold more than 130 million records worldwide, there is a sense that the pioneering pop-group are not the force that they once were. They need a fresh approach to fame. This time, however, catchy tunes, boyish good looks or dodgy haircuts will not be their weapon of choice. Having proven that they have what it takes to conquer the world with song, AJ, Howie, Nick, Kevin and Brian have announced plans to enter the business of booze.
In a backstage interview with media company Tasting Table, the group revealed the band’s shared enthusiasm and love for tequila. Discussing their passion for Mexico’s signature spirit, Kevin quipped that he likes to unwind with “a good reposado or añejo," before Nick broke the news about the group’s latest venture. It emerged that the boys are currently on the hunt for a suitable business partner south of the border who can match their ambition to launch a tequila label and leave a liquory as well as lyrical legacy.
Though there are no concrete plans for the business as yet, the group’s intentions are clear. Given tequila’s historic ties and protections within Mexico, there are very few routes down which the band can go. Tequila can only be produced in the Mexican state of Jalisco, so any new players entering the game are guaranteed to cause some serious ripples. Whether the band elect to side with an existing major distributor, or opt to join forces with a smaller independent distillery remains to be seen. Either way, the venture will be big business for someone in the tequila industry.
Were the band’s plans for tequila domination come to fruition, they would not be the first celebrities to enjoy success through spirits. Carlos Santana, Diddy and Sammy Hagar have all been involved in the tequila business. Fellow 90s boy bander, turned global superstar Justin Timberlake recently picked up a slew of awards for his Sauza 91 tequila, while George Clooney successfully sold his Casamigos business to major spirits conglomerate Diageo for a whopping $1 billion. Clearly, there’s money to be made from Mexico’s most famous export.
However, while other celebrities seem largely content to stop at booze, the Backstreet Boys seem determined to foray further into the food and drink industry. In addition to their planned tequila venture, the band also filed documents to trademark the name “Backstreet Barbecue” in February this year. Details on this business are even less concrete than their tequila plans, but it seems that avid fans can look forward to some baby back(street) ribs alongside their reposados in the future.
Until we receive an official statement on the timeline of the rapidly growing Backstreet food empire, much of the future remains under speculation. However, if the group are genuinely as passionate about food and drink as they claim, then there is no reason that the new businesses cannot be roaring successes. Whichever way you look at it, we can definitively say that Backstreet’s back, alright.


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This is going to make your weekend! Starting right now, Amazon is offering up Prime Memberships for just $73–regularly $99!
This deal will end at 11:59 p.m. local time on Sunday, January 17. If you’ve been holding off on buying or waiting for a lower price–now is your time. Already have Prime? It would make the perfect gift.
Amazon Prime benefits include free 2-day shipping, unlimited instant streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows, and much more. Plus, Amazon just announced that along with those great benefits, members will also receive reduced pricing on brand new video games.


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Microsoft and Sony's next generation of consoles could struggle if they don't fully embrace free-to-play gaming, says Crytek's Cevat Yerli - although he admits the two platform holders face some tough decisions if they're to pursue such a model.
Yerli has bullishly stated that Crytek is itself embracing a free-to-play future, an area it's testing with some degree of success with Warface. After production has completed on Crysis 3, Ryse and Homefront 2 - the game being developed by Crytek's UK studio - all of the company's games will utilise the business model.
"I hope for them that they do," Yerli said when asked if a free-to-play model would be at the heart of Microsoft and Sony's next consoles. "If they don't then it's going to be a tough time for them.
"It's quite a challenge for those companies logically because they rely so heavily on retail to sell the hardware and to sell the games where the margin for retail really is," Yerli continued. "If they would forgo their entire retail business and go digital free-to-play, then they would not be selling any more Xboxes as well. There's a chicken and egg thing there. And they have to make radical calls."
Microsoft has resisted introducing free-to-play games on the Xbox 360 in the past, while Sony, with the likes of CCP's Dust 514, has proven more receptive to the idea. Yerli's already said that he's in talks with both platform holders about getting Warface, the free-to-play first person shooter, to consoles, although he acknowledges the perception that such games have.
"We know that free-to-play games have a bad image," he said. "They have a bad reputation - it's pay to win, it's low quality. I completely get that, but we are making free-to-play that's high quality. It's CryEngine 3, it's a big investment."
Yerli's beliefs hold up - Digital Foundry recently investigated Warface and came away impressed with a free-to-play game that boasted triple-A production values.
And Yerli's adamant that Crytek will stick to its guns when it comes to free-to-play - and that the kind of social gaming that implies would, for example, be a part of any future instalments in the Crysis series beyond the one that's planned for early next year.
"We will do a single-player esque experience," Yerli said when asked if Crytek would produce another single-player experience. "But it will be for you and your friends together. Single player with two players! Story-rich experiences for at least two people. The premise I can say clearly is that free-to-play is going to be part of any business model we have going forward."


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After a rise of 43% in 2014, will we see more gains for the microprocessor leader
Intel will be releasing their earnings for last year’s final quarter after the market closes today and traders are keen to see if there is more room for growth in the stock price. Last year was a happy one for buyers, as it had it’s second best annual performance.
In a generally good year for markets, Intel followed suit despite being a company in transition. They have been suffering from the slowing PC market which is getting hit by the advancing smartphone and tablet shares, but over the last years they’ve managed to maintain their share and even take away some from the main competitor AMD in 2014.
In last year’s Q2 they had 94.7% of the entire PC processor market, 84% of desktop PC’s and 88% of laptops. All this is happening against the backdrop of PC shipments shedding 10.3% in 2013, but the industry surprised almost everyone by stabilising in 2014.
The connection with Microsoft will remain crucial this year, as the expected release of Windows 10 will prompt a surge in upgrades in the all-important PC market which still accounts for 60% of sales. Mobile, the painful subject for Intel who missed out on its global march, is still a losing business for them, but expectations are for an improved performance and a road map to profit.
Yesterday was also a curious day for the stock price, as there was a wide sell-off, but Intel gained 0.8%, reaching $36.77. However the company is trading at a 5-year top and with general nervousness dominating market participants, any results below expectations might trigger downward movement.
The company’s sales number is expected to make a 6.5% jump compared to last year, reaching $14.7 billion. This would be the highest ever number for the company, which also managed to surpass the 100 million mark for sold microprocessors in a single quarter.
The Consumer Electronics Show last week saw the company presenting new tech including a miniature super-low-power chip that is planned for wearable devices. Combined with their push to get in early on the IoT (Internet of Things) wave and the future rolling out of 14 and 10 nanometer process nodes, these are the hopeful drivers of future growth that Intel executives have been stressing on.
Today will be a case of either hitting or missing expectations (see our article on the subject) and a technical and fundamental review of the company. Has the bull-run already run its course, or is there more profit on the upside to be made, despite some technical indicators showing a likely downturn? The earnings report will have not only the numbers for the last quarter, but also the company’s future guidance. Any large deviation from what is expected might provide volatility. We’ll see today after the closing bell.
Intel and Microsoft are available in the Trading 212 PRO platform.
Next article will be out tomorrow at 4:00pm GMT and will have our preview of next week’s market action, coupled with some great articles from the financial and tech world.


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Heads up: Call it deficit week with the Treasury Department releasing the November figures on the federal budget deficit Wednesday, and the Commerce Department’s monthly report on the trade deficit out Thursday. Other key economic reports due out this week include two others from the Commerce Department on Friday: retail sales for November and business inventories for October. Also out Friday is the Labor Department’s producer price index for November.
Thursday: Costco Wholesale will release fiscal first-quarter earnings. An 8 a.m. conference call with analysts will be webcast on the investor relations page at www.costco.com. … Micron Technology’ annual shareholders meeting — at 9 a.m. at its Boise, Idaho, corporate headquarters — will be webcast at www.micron.com/ir. … The Commercial Brokers Association holds its 12th Annual Commercial Real Estate Insights event, with speakers focusing on the theme “Does History Repeat Itself? Lessons Learned from Cycles in Real Estate,” 7-9 a.m., Grand Hyatt Hotel, Seattle


text: Karuah Progress and some local business news Karuah, North Arm Cove Myall Coast News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - December 4, 2017 Rebecca Brown, Sky McAlpine and Baby Aisha, Wilson Soh and Shanna Hollier. THE evolution of the Karuah business scene continued this month with even more businesses opening. Modern Media: Advertise with News Of The Area and you get your ad in 1) in Print, 2) on the News Website (like this ad), and 3) on our Social Media news site. A much more efficient way to advertise. Reach a HUGE audience for a LOW price TODAY! Call us on 02 4983 2134. Or [email protected] Or CLICK FOR ADVERT QUOTE Old Mates Bakery and Cafe opened its doors and the Karuah Pharmacy celebrated its official “Grand Opening”. Karuah Progress Association stalwart Dave Benson said “since the bypass went in, our town continues to flourish”. The Karuah Pharmacy held a “Gala” Opening ceremony on the 28th of November. Owner and Head Pharmacist Wilson Soh cut a ribbon and a cake, while live music was heard up and down the Main Street. Janelle Henderson, a Karuah local reported that “over 200 friends, and customers of the pharmacy attended and all had good things to say about Wilson and his team and the service they provide to Karuah. Old Mates Bakery has also recently opened with fresh bread, cakes and light meals with great coffee either inside or at an outside table. As well as adding colour to the Main Street, it gives another dining option to the those visiting town. Dave Austin, a part time worker at the Bakery said, “Come in, get your fresh bread daily and try our coffee or cakes, you will be pleasantly surprised”. The local Anglican Op Shop has recommenced business in its newly renovated and extended premises this month. The newly enlarged and modernised church hall will be blessed and officially opened on 31 December as a last act of 2017. Church leader Cliff Johnson said, “Anyone wishing to attend the blessing would be made welcome at the morning church service and blessing at the service and morning tea on the morning on New Year’s Eve.” Members of the local progress association are hoping for a 2018 which will see even more businesses and activity within Karuah as the area continues to evolve as the “Pearl of Port Stephens”. By Trevor DAVIES Rebecca Brown, Wilson Soh, Shanna Hollier, Sky McAlpine and Baby Aisha, cutting the cake.


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AT&T: Samsung Focus S, Focus Flash Arrive November 6
It was just yesterday that we were wondering about the status of Samsung’s Focus S and Focus Flash Windows Phone handsets. First, Samsung finally set up product pages for the pair on its website, and then we received an invitation to a Windows Phone event that prominently featured imagery of the two phones. We still didn’t have anything specific like a release date, but the feeling was in the air that the new Focuses were about to drop imminently. Today, AT&T has finally given us what we were looking for, confirming launch dates for the phones as well as revealing their prices.
While the WP7 event isn’t scheduled to take place until November 7, the Focus S and Focus Flash will go up for sale one day earlier, on November 6. On-contract, the Focus S will cost just under $200, while the Focus Flash is the bargain model, going for just about $50.
As should be clear from those prices, the Focus S is the higher-end of the two phones, with a larger screen and higher-resolution main camera, but the Focus Flash doesn’t sound like it will be any sort of slouch, making its low price all the more attractive.
Both new Focus models are powered by 1.4GHz processors, feature front-facing cameras, and arrive running Mango.
Source: AT&T (Facebook)


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Dry Dock Brewing Co.
Aurora, CO 80011
- Mon-Tue 12pm-9pm, Wed 12pm-9:30pm, Thu 12pm-10pm, Fri 12pm-11pm, Sat 11am-11pm
- Snack Food
- Parking Lot Available
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Earlier this week, Sony announced that they’d be making a game announcement every day from today until E3.
The first game to be revealed is Tetris Effect, which is being created by the maker of REZ and Lumines. Tetris Effect is set to take the simple game of Tetris beyond anything we’ve seen before.
The game will also come to PlayStation VR when it launches in Spring.
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What you need to know
Companies from Argentina to South Korea offer mobile millennials reassurance and familiarity.
MOX, the Taipei-based accelerator that helps mobile startups tap emerging markets, offered an eclectic lineup at its latest demo day, as six teams pitched for investment ranging from US $ 500,000 to US $ 2 million.
The event in Taipei's Huashan 1914 Creative Park was presaged by a typically robust introduction from Jeffrey Huang, chairman of Taiwanese live streaming success story 17 Media , which picked out Israel as a startup ecosystem success story that Taiwan can aim to emulate .
Huang also called attention to how first first offer offerings (ICOs) are challenging venture capital (VC) as a means for startups to attract funding.
"One industry that ICOs disrupt is VCs but if you want to ICO, you'd better lawyer up or put up firewalls up so that you do not get you into trouble," Huang said, adding that as long as they have their hearts in the right place entrepreneurs should "go hard and fast and worry about [consequences] later."
Huang competed a private ICO in early February for his Mithril token, but said that route is off limits to most founders as it requires a network of well-placed people and weighty name recognition to attract sufficient support-in.
Whereas public ICOs are difficult to parse for credibility, accelerators like MOX offers investors peace of mind that the early-stage companies on show have a quality product or service and the network to push it to the next level.
MOX member companies can tap support that includes financing from SOSV, the US$300 million VC fund that oversees MOX, and access to audience that sidesteps the life-sapping expenses involved in acquiring users through Facebook and Google. Founding teams can also tap the advice and knowhow of 270 global mentors.
MOX founder William Bao Bean summed it up: “It doesn’t matter how good your app is – no one will ever see your app or platform unless you pay Google, Facebook or a bunch of Chinese guys [Alibaba, Tencent, etc.]. They charge 20 to 30 cents per app launch, and it’s impossible to make that back in emerging markets.”
SOSV is regularly ranked among the most active seed investors in the world by Crunchbase, the data-driven company analytics service, and 60 percent of the companies in MOX’s previous three batches have either raised money or broken even (or both), with 30 percent closing or about to close US$1-3 million in the last year, according to Bao Bean.
In return for offering up a share of their revenue and equity, MOX companies are provided with up to 150,000 users to help localization and optimization as they enter each of the markets in MOX’s coverage, which spans Southeast Asia, India, Eastern Europe and South America.
Access to that user base comes via MOX’s partnership with global telco GMobi, which provides smartphone ad services, a payment platform, and access to 167 million (up from 130 million last year) smartphone users across South Asia, Southeast Asia, South America and Eastern Europe. Those users are distinguished by the likelihood that they are using low budget phones with limited memory and are conscious of the price of data.
MOX Batch 4
Picking a winner from a 10-minute pitch is always something of a lottery, but RadioCut, co-founded by Argentine Guillermo M. Narvaja had perhaps the most appealing service and a tagline to match: “Netflix for radio.”
Narvaja voiced a common theme of the afternoon, namely the fragmented and migratory nature of millennial life in emerging markets and the isolation this breeds – an isolation that RadioCut offers to ease by sourcing the soothing tones of your hometown radio station, either live or via playback. A 50 percent retention rate for the app's 700,000 monthly active users and the eight hour average time spent per month suggests decent stickiness for an app that on demonstration looked clean and intuitive. RadioCut is seeking US$500,000 as it looks to jump from South America to Asia.
Myanmar-based Goama offered a similarly attractive amalgamation model, sold by its co-founder and CEO Taro Araya as “a highly curated, friction free, all-you-can-eat Netflix of Games.” Goama invites users to pay a low-cost subscription for access to 400 premium games, paid for by the mobile phone credit that every emerging market user will carry, and featuring a 10MB or less feature that will appeal to data-conscious users. Goama is after US$1.5 million to expand its base of 270,000 active users and extend its reach beyond its current six countries in Asia.
India's Dogether was another that played on the idea of migrant workers and students wanting to connect to something familiar in their new homes, this time the idea of finding a group of likeminded people with whom to try out various activities, ranging from cooking to paragliding. India is home to some 300 million such migratory potential users, and co-founder and CEO Hammad Jilani, 24, dwelt on community reviews, safety and verification of hosts as key selling points. While his service already has 500,000 registered users, one fear would be that AirBnB is coming after the experience market, and as Dogether’s reach is currently limited to five cities and 120 hosts, it may struggle to scale and compete. The half a million dollars Jilani is looking for would help.
The idea behind Jakarta-based Oomph is simple – new Indonesian smartphone users are turned off by the Google Play Store or simply do not have the space to operate it. Enter the company’s rewards and recommendations service, tailored to Indonesians and offering news, apps and HTML 5 games. The allure of Indonesia’s massive and as yet largely untapped mobile market of 165 million devices is tantalizing, and the company is looking for US$2 million to expand into Southeast Asia and build on its current 4 million active users.
Whycall, which aims to prevent spam calls by running through them a proprietary algorithmic screening process, provided some eye popping stats on the prevalence of fake or scam calling in the company’s native South Korea and around the region. Whycall’s algorithm is honed on data from 1.5 billion calls and pulls in factors like call length to decide who is likely to be up to no good and offer you the chance to block them. The company is raising US$1.5 million in Series A funding to come to the rescue of hotspot markets like Azerbaijan, Pakistan and Turkey, according to founder and CEO Youngjung Yun.
It is interesting to speculate on the data insights these companies and the final batch offering, South Korean ecommerce platform Style Seller, will eventually glean and the stories that data might tell. For example, Goama COO Wayne Kennedy told The News Lens that Myanmar was notable for its focus on homegrown games, whereas Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Malaysia and Bangladesh were all comfortable in clamoring for top international games.
Dogether might eventually be able to pick out what region of India is most into adventure sports, or at least hazard a guess, while RadioCut could paint the 1,000 years of radio it has collected into a soundscape that illustrates listening habits across its coverage.
But it is often the most disarmingly simple ideas that have most success, and in aping Google's app store and building a CRM platform on top, Oomph may just have the most enticing balance of growth potential and monetization options that investors crave.
TNL Editor: Morley J Weston


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31 May The reactivation of tourism in New York
We interview Mrs. Karyl Krugley, our US Agent in New York since April 2010. She has more than twenty-seven years of experience in the hospitality industry. She will give us some insight in how New York´s hotels have lived last year, and their expectations for 2021:
How have hotels in New York dealt with the pandemic in the last year? Hotels have been devastated during the pandemic. The hospitality industry has taken unsurmountable losses. several iconic hotels have shuttered and will not reopen due to the loss of revenue join 2020 and the first quarter of 2021. Some of the iconic New York City hotels that has close permanently are the Roosevelt Hotel- 1,015 rooms, several AKA properties(long stay), Hilton Times Square- 460 rooms, Hudson Hotel – 876 rooms just to name a few at the beginning of the pandemic many hotels we’re used to house first responders, doctors, and nurses. Some hotels, just to keep the doors open and some revenue coming in, took in the homeless population when the on the shelters were overwhelmed.
Will the current global health crisis affect tourism this year in US? Yes, most definitely- during 2020 there was absolutely no tourism due to the global health crisis. Governments of countries were trying to protect their residents by closing their borders and closing down air travel. As governments cautiously reopen, I see the pent-up need to travel for business and leisure purposes percolating. Life is beginning to re-invent to a “new normal”. My hospitality partners are reaching out for merchandise for their planned re-openings and most encouraging is brand new hotels are going forward with their plans.
How is life in the US having been administered a million vaccines? Life in New York is certainly freeing us up now that many have been vaccinated. Most people are still cautious. As of today Governor Cuomo of New York State lifted the mandate for mask wearing outdoors and many indoor venues. I personally will continue to wear a mask. There is still a large portion of our population in New York who do not believe in the vaccine and until we reach “herd immunity” there is still a slight fear
Are you already noticing any reactivation of tourism in New York? Thank goodness, yes tourism is returning with local tourists as well as domestic and some international business and leisure travellers.
Which hotels in New York do you recommend for Spanish people? So many to recommend and I will list a few of my favorites: InterContinental New York Barclay Hotel, Innside New York Nomad, Public Hotel…each offer a different experience. Remember NY’s second language is Spanish making it comfortable for Spanish tourists that visit NYC.
How American people see Spain as a tourist destination? Americans love to travel, especially to Europe! As soon as Spain is comfortable to allow US tourists to visit you will see Americans returning to Spain for business and leisure travel enjoying its wonderful culture, welcoming people, and delicious cuisines and wines!


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Ore processed at Petra Diamond’s Williamson diamond mine, in Tanzania increased 22 per cent year-on-year in Q3, 2022 the company said in its latest production update.
Through the update, London-listed Petra Diamonds announced that it had concluded the framework agreement with the government of Tanzania in December.
“As part of that framework agreement, we referenced the seized parcel of diamonds, which was around $14-million to $15-million. That framework agreement references that the government of Tanzania would contribute the proceeds from the sale of that parcel to the mine itself. That was set out in the agreement,” Petra CEO Richard Duffy said.
He said there were also various payments that the mine would make as part of that settlement, to the government of Tanzania with regard to the rare pink diamond set to be auctioned.
“The parcel has not yet been sold. The proceeds from the parcel once sold will be contributed to Williamson. That has not yet happened and we continue to engage with government. The agreement is not yet effective. We are in the process of completing some conditions precedent and getting various regulatory approvals. That’s all happening, but it hasn’t concluded as yet,” Duffy added.
Meanwhile, Petra Diamonds remains in a strong position, being considerably more resilient through its strengthened balance sheet and the implementation of its operating model, together with ongoing cash generation.
Petra CEO Richard Duffy highlighted this before reiterating guidance for the company’s financial year 2023 (FY23) and taking comfort from the underlying fundamental market support as a result of the structural supply deficit, regardless of any short-term volatility relating to prevailing macroeconomic challenges.
The London Stock Exchange-listed Jersey-headquartered diamond mining and marketing company produced 763 220 ct in the three months to the end of September, when 3 147 731 t were treated, 520 000 ct sold, and $104.3-million worth of revenue generated.
Finsch production was 2 per cent higher than in the last quarter of the 2022 financial year and Cullinan production was down 13% year-on year to 763 220 ct owing to lower grades.
Options for a responsible exit at Koffiefontein diamond mine are being explored as the mine approaches the end of its mine plan. This is being done in close consultation with its stakeholders, in particular the workforce.
The company has maintained its production guidance for the year, although this will likely be towards the lower end of the range for Cullinan mine and Finsch, the company stated in a release to Mining Weekly.


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In response to the challenging times that we are experiencing together regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to give props to some stellar local businesses who are stepping up to serve our great community.
Featured this Week:
Melody’s Muskoka Ice Cream, Gravenhurst
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/melodysmuskokaicecream
“Stay safe. Eat Ice Cream.”
Located at 1295 Muskoka Road South in Gravenhurst, Melody’s Muskoka Ice Cream is hard to miss because of it’s bright blue-turquoise exterior. It’s also hard to miss because of just how amazing their ice cream and frozen treats are! Having first opened in the Spring/Summer of 2019, Melody’s offers a wide variety of frozen delights including Kawartha Dairy ice cream, milkshakes, banana splits and the newly introduced homemade ice cream pies that have been flying off the shelf!
As the pandemic came along, Melody’s wasn’t sure what 2020 would have in store, or whether they would be able to open at all. With community safety in mind, they struggled with what the responsible decision might be. After reflection and support from family, friends and the community, Melody’s decided to step up to the challenge, adapt their service delivery and open to the public.
Opening their doors this summer in the Covid-19 world has meant an increase in operating costs, but Melody’s has not increased their prices as to accommodate for everyone having a tough go this year. So while they opened one month later than 2019 and have seen their margins thin out, they’ve been busy since opening and are just excited to be serving up plenty of smiles.
We want to acknowledge and thank Melody’s Muskoka Ice Cream for their thoughtfulness when it comes to our community and the hard work that has gone into operating through these tough times. Giving people something to smile for and get excited about is super important right now and you’re doing a fantastic job! Congratulations to your entire team!!
If you know a local business who deserves a shout out, send us a direct message with a photo and why they should be featured. #StayComfy


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E-commerce transactions have shown remarkable growth in recent years worldwide. Apart from brick-and-mortar stores, shopping has advanced into an industry that uses multi-channel strategies, such as online stores, mobile apps, and e-commerce platforms. Asia is leading the way in B2C (business-to-consumer) sales. Statista reports almost 60% of worldwide e-commerce transactions came from Asia. By 2024,it will comprise 61% of global revenue.
Last week, the highly-anticipated BPD Digital Forum 2023 took place at the serene Anvaya Beach Resort in Bali. Hosted jointly by Brankas and Asbanda, this event brought together regional development banks from across Indonesia to explore the theme of “Maximizing Growth Through Ecosystems.”
Amidst the picturesque surroundings, the agenda featured engaging discussions on embedded finance, banking-as-a-service, alternative data, payments, and cybersecurity. Attendees were treated to informative keynote presentations and thought-provoking panel discussions led by Brankas experts, including General Manager Husni Fuad, Group Product Managers Eri Marina Yo and Stavin Deeswe, and Chief Operating Officer Mike Dickinson.
We were thrilled to have the support of TrustDecision and Yokke as sponsors, who provided valuable insights into KYC and payment processes tailored for the BPD community. Participants found ample networking opportunities during a delightful lunch at Kumyit Restaurant and an equally exciting afternoon filled with informative sessions.
As the sun set, we continued the camaraderie and dialogue over dinner at the vibrant Hard Rock Cafe Kuta, where participants bonded further through shared interests in exploring growth opportunities.
With the BPD Digital Forum 2023, we took a significant step forward in driving digital transformation through banking-as-a-service and fostering innovation in financial solutions for customers. The event has set the stage for even more collaboration and progress in Indonesia’s financial landscape.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all participants, sponsors, and partners for making this event a resounding success. Stay tuned for updates as we continue our journey towards a stronger, inclusive financial ecosystem for all. Together, we are empowering financial services for growth and making a lasting impact on Indonesia’s financial landscape.


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Apple has an official presence at CES 2020, the first time it has been on the bill since 1992. Senior director of privacy Jane Horvath is set to appear on a Chief Privacy Officer Roundtable on 7 January (via Bloomberg).
The panel is listed on CES’ official website where it shows Horvath will appear alongside executives from Facebook and the Federal Trade Commission.
The last time Apple was listed as a participant at CES was when CEO John Sculley introduced the Newton at CES in Chicago. Since then and all throughout Steve Jobs’s second tenure as CEO (1997-2011) Apple has not appeared at CES. Instead it used the Macworld Expo (now defunct) and latterly its own standalone events to whip up excitement for its consumer products.
The company helped fuel this trend in the wider consumer tech industry, resulting in CES today largely being devoid of major consumer tech brands or big releases. At CES 2019, only the Honor View 20 stood out as a notable smartphone release – a solid, but hardly world-beating, device.
Apple employees attend CES to meet with existing and potential partners, and no doubt business is done at a show that brings in tens of thousands of technology professionals. But it hasn’t put itself up for appearance for over 25 years, making this panel a notable one.
Our colleagues on Macworld discuss the significance of this step in a separate article: What’s Apple doing at CES 2020?


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Area McDonald’s Restaurants Hiring 1,000 New Employees from Local Communities
Local area McDonald’s restaurants will hire approximately 1,000 new employees in surrounding communities over the next few weeks to staff up for summer.
Through a summer job at McDonald’s, individuals learn work readiness skills on the job that serve them well into future career opportunities. In addition to gaining experience and knowledge in the hospitality industry, a job at McDonald’s develops teamwork, customer service, responsibility, and time management skills. Local crew members may also enjoy an array of benefits including the opportunity for professional advancement, free meals, paid vacation, and more.
Local McDonald’s owner/operators have put procedures in place for contactless ways to apply including online and text message options along with paper applications available in the drive-thru. Restaurants are also offering virtual interviews and socially distant options for onboarding new crew members.


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As the economy continues its slow recovery, many people continue to struggle to find and keep good jobs.
However, Goodwill of North Georgia has reason to celebrate since last year, the nonprofit helped more than 10,200 people find employment through the variety of job training programs and employment services.
"When you give to Goodwill or shop in our stores, you are helping people who lack education or work experience, those who have disabilities, youth, veterans and others who may be having a hard time finding employment," said Elaine Armstrong, director of public relations. "This year, our Goodwill Industries Week events will focus on thanking our supporters and helping more North Georgians find work."
Every year since 1951, Goodwill agencies across the United States and Canada have marked the first full week of May as Goodwill Industries Week, a commemoration that celebrates new jobs and changed lives. This year, from May 6 –10, Goodwill of North Georgia will host a variety of events, including job fairs and employment workshops at its career centers, giveaways for donors and shoppers and drawings for Goodwill gift cards.
According to the Goodwill website, here's what kind of events and activities you can expect this week:
MONDAY, MAY 6Did You Know Monday - How many donations did we receive last year? In what city will we open our next store? Find out the answers to these questions and more on Monday. Join us on our social media pages as we share Goodwill facts and trivia questions.
TUESDAY, MAY 7
Give Thanks Tuesday - Do you follow @GoodwillNG on Twitter? If so, on Tuesday we invite you to complete the statement “I’m thankful for Goodwill because...” Be sure to include our official Goodwill Week hashtag #GoodwillWeekATL. You can also stop by any of our nine career centers to write your message on our Goodwill Week graffiti boards.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 8
Job Fair and Workshop Wednesday - Do you need a job or know someone who does? Eight of our nine Career Centers will host a job fair or job preparation workshop on Wednesday. You won't want to miss this opportunity. Leam more.
Donor Appreciation Day - We’re also giving back to donors Wednesday morning. The first 25 donors at each store will receive a special appreciation gift. Use our online locator tool to find your nearest Goodwill of North Georgia store. Giveaways will be distributed on a first come, first served basis.
THURSDAY, MAY 9
Grasslands LEED Day - Our Grasslands store is now LEED certified! We built this store using environmentally-friendly processes and systems. On Thursday morning will we celebrate our greenest store yet. The first 100 customers at Grasslands will receive a special “green” gift. Giveaways will be distributed on a first come, first served basis.
WEEK LONG EVENTS
Gift Card Drawing - Each day until Friday, customers at all 44 stores will have the chance to enter a drawing for a $50 Goodwill gift card. Friday at noon, each store will choose a winner. Shop any (or all) of our stores during Goodwill Week and enter to win.
Goodwill funds job training programs and placement services by selling donations of gently used clothing and household goods in more than 40 stores.
"Thank you for your ongoing support as we celebrate Goodwill Industries Week," Armstrong said in a press release. "Together, we are preparing people for new jobs and changing lives."
To learn more about Goodwill, visit GoodwillNG.org.


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SIAM to meet Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari on March 2, seek deferment of CAFE norms
The 21st session of the Conference of the Parties (COP21) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held in Paris from November 30 to December 12 2015 that saw the participation of 195 nations.
Slowly, tables are getting filled up at restaurants
Zorawar Kalra, MD of Massive Restaurants that runs brands such as Farzi Cafe and Made in ...
CCD lenders initiate talks with PEs to sell office vending business
The three funds are said to be independently evaluating the CCD business that has India’s largest network of fresh coffee-dispensing machines at office locations.
We’re looking at expanding into high-margin FMCG businesses & acquisitions: Tata Consumer MD Sunil D’Souza
“The premise of creating the consumer business was to create a much bigger space in FMCG; but we will go ahead with clearly differentiated products, our approach will be measured, and we will enter categories where we can drive margins,” D’Souza told ET.
Stocks in focus: Castrol India, CCD and more
Here are the top stocks that are likely to be in focus in today's trading. Auto Stocks, Castrol ...
Bird flu: Delhi rolls back ban on chicken, eggs
The restrictions, enforced due to an outbreak of bird flu in 10 states, were lifted after the Centre asked states not to curb interstate supplies of poultry and poultry products. Additionally, samples of birds from the markets tested negative for bird flu.
We have reduced the debt burden, the worst is over: Coffee Day Enterprises’ new CEO Malavika Hegde
I am bullish on both the cafe and vending businesses. Both businesses will need to pass a few more hurdles before they flourish, says Coffee Day Enterprises’ new CEO Malavika Hegde.
What's brewing? Coffee Day stock doubles in grey market in 5 days!
Off-market dealers says the company is likely to be back on track this year. They are buying the management view at the AGM, where it asserted that the worst is over for the company.
Ditch indoor restaurants and boring outdoor tents, private dining in hotel rooms is fashionable now
Hotel rooms are now being converted into private dining spaces to enjoy an elegant meal.
Dine-in business stages a comeback but a third of eateries may have shut permanently
While industry estimates say 30% of restaurants and bars have shut permanently, unable to withstand the five-month-long cash burn on account of the widespread shutdowns, brands that have implemented stringent hygiene standards and digital menus are leading the revival.
Kolkata cafe offers ‘zip masks’ to customers
Kolkata (West Bengal), Oct 18 (ANI): A Kolkata-based restaurant decided to make the ‘new normal’...


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The fierce debate on Ubisoft's copy protection policy (outlined here) might be headed for a new chapter, as PC Gamer report that a constant net connection no longer seems to be required for Ubisoft games.
Ubisoft told Eurogamer back in April that the policy was here to stay, adding that "most forthcoming Ubisoft PC titles" would use their online services platform. Included in the list of games thought likely to use the DRM was R.U.S.E., but as was announced back in August, it was decided that the game should be using Steamworks instead of the dreaded online DRM. This was described at the time as "the first major crack in Ubisoft’s resolve" on the matter - the first chink in the armour, if you will.
Now, players of Assassin's Creed 2 and Splinter Cell: Conviction have posted screenshots showing their games running with web connections turned off. Apparently, the games only require a web connection at startup, enabling you to, as one Norwegian reviewer said it: "start up your game at home and then bring your machine with you on holiday".
There has been no official statement from Ubisoft on which, if any, DRM solution M&M: Heroes VI will use. Nor have they commented on whether the policy will be continued or abandoned completely. Celestial Heavens' view on the matter is simple to summarize, though: we remain hopeful that this draconian and counterproductive method will be stopped, and we hope that these latest developments are signs of fatigue - yet another step in the direction of Ubisoft's finally admitting their mistake and scrapping their policy altogether.


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STOCKHOLM: Sweden's SKF, the world's biggest maker of ball bearings, reported a smaller than expected fall in quarterly core earnings on Tuesday as cost cuts helped it weather a steep decline in demand due to the pandemic.
The rival of Germany's Schaeffler said sales fell 25% on a like-for-like basis in the quarter, with its automotive business hit particularly hard due to plant closures at customers related to lockdowns in many major markets.
"We have delivered another very strong operating result, despite sales falling by 25% during the second quarter," CEO Alrik Danielson said in a statement. Demand had also begun to recover toward the end of the quarter with sales improving in June, he added.
Analysts said SKF's profit, adjusted for non-recurring items, was better than expected, with Credit Suisse estimating the outcome beat consensus forecasts by as much as 33.5%.
Quarterly reported operating earnings were 669 million Swedish crowns ($75 million), still down from 2.5 billion crowns in the year-earlier period, and below the 960 million crowns mean analyst forecast according to Refinitiv data.
However, adjusted for large non-recurring items such as restructuring costs, only partly factored into analysts' estimates, the operating profit was 1.57 billion crowns.
SKF normally derives 70% of sales from its more profitable industrial business and 30% from its automotive business.
The company said it expected "a continued elevated level of restructuring costs during the second half of 2020" and refrained from giving a demand forecast due to continued market uncertainty.
We are extremely saddened to inform the untimely demise of Vikram S Kirloskar, Vice Chairman, Toyota Kirloskar Motor on 29th November 2022. At this time of grief, we request everyone to pray that his soul rests in peace. Last respect can be paid at Hebbal Crematorium, Bengaluru, at 1 pm on Wednesday, Toyota said.
According to ETAuto sources, the raid began at the company’s Corporate office in Gurgaon around 3:00 PM and continued till the story is filed. The latest development comes in light of heightened scrutiny by law-enforcement agencies on companies operating in India which have links with neighboring country, China.


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US stocks rose on Wednesday, boosted by Apple, Boeing and General Electric following their quarterly results, though worries about the economic damage of the fast-spreading coronavirus kept gains in check.
Stocks showed little reaction to the Federal Reserve's policy statement. The Fed, as expected, held rates steady while offering no new guidance on its balance sheet or mentioning any economic risks that could come about from the coronavirus outbreak in China.
Since the Fed's last rate cut, in October, its third reduction of 2019, policymakers have agreed to keep their target policy rate in the current range of 1.50% and 1.75%.
"The biggest thing going on is earnings and obviously the coronavirus," said Thomas Martin, senior portfolio manager at Globalt Investments in Atlanta.
"Earnings are coming in mixed to OK, but today your bellwether Apple was good," he said. "But for the most part the underlying theme is there is all this stability out there in so many different factors â€“ inflation is low, unemployment is low, wage growth is low and stable."
Apple Inc gained 3.05% after the iPhone maker late Tuesday reported earnings for the holiday shopping quarter that topped analysts' expectations, even as it braced for more disruptions in virus-hit China.
Boeing Co rose 2.65% after the planemaker forecast nearly $19 billion in costs related to the grounding of its 737 MAX jets, smaller than what many analysts had expected, and helping offset the company's report of its first annual loss since 1997.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 163.34 points, or 0.57%, to 28,886.19, the S&P 500 gained 14.76 points, or 0.45%, to 3,291, and the Nasdaq Composite added 49.66 points, or 0.54%, to 9,319.34.
As earnings gather pace, analysts expect profit for S&P 500 companies to be flat in the fourth quarter, an improvement over the 0.6% decline estimated at the start of the season, according to Refinitiv data.
General Electric jumped 10.19% after the industrial conglomerate set a higher cash target for 2020.
Several companies did warn of disruption to their operations due to the coronavirus outbreak, and a Chinese government economist was quoted as saying the country's economic growth may drop to 5% or even lower.
Starbucks Corp dropped 1.99% after warning of a financial hit as it closed thousands of restaurants and adjusted operating hours in China.
Advancing issues outnumbered declining ones on the NYSE by a 1.52-to-1 ratio; on Nasdaq, a 1.12-to-1 ratio favoured decliners.The S&P 500 posted 46 new 52-week highs and eight new lows; the Nasdaq Composite recorded 75 new highs and 52 new lows.


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September 7, 2017
Stories this photo appears in:
New Investor’s Top Client Includes Facebook Founder
ChromaDex Corp. in Irvine will raise $23 million via the private placement on Nov. 17 of 5.6 million common shares at $4.10 apiece, which follows a $25 million investment led by Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-Shing that concluded in August.
Irvine-based ChromaDex Corp. reported $6.1 million in sales for its most recent quarter, up 55% year-over-year, and a net loss of $3.2 million, about 30% more than the same period last year.
Irvine-based ChromaDex Corp. will sell more than 5.6 million shares of its common stock at a purchase price of $4.10 per share, or about $23 million.
HEALTHCARE: Focus on own supplement brand
An obsession with eternal youth is in vogue, and not limited to Americans; the global antiaging market is projected to grow from $250 billion last year to $331.4 billion in 2021, according to a report by Orbis Research in Dallas.


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June 30, 2020:
It was previously mentioned that the upcoming flagship – Huawei Mate 40 series will feature a 120Hz refresh rate display but now, new information hints that Huawei plans to stick with 90Hz for this year.
According to the CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), Ross Young, Huawei Mate 40 series will still use a 90Hz display. While the company will use a 120Hz display in next year’s Huawei Mate 50 Series.
This also raises the possibility that Huawei P50 Series, which releases early in the year, may debut with the 120Hz refresh rate. However, nothing is confirmed officially at the moment.
Mate 40 will be 90Hz as said above. Next year’s Mate 50 models will be 120Hz, probably with LTPO…
— Ross Young (@DSCCRoss) June 29, 2020
June 18, 2020:
Huawei Mate 40 Series will launch in the second half of this year and this flagship lineup likely to come with new camera technologies. While new information about this flagship suggests featuring even higher refresh rate display than Huawei P40.
CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), Ross Young, recently shared a list of 2020’s high display refresh rate phones, which includes the upcoming Huawei Mate 40 featuring 120Hz refresh rate.
Here is our list of 120Hz phones for 2020. Are we missing any? pic.twitter.com/Kr0UotSCNC
— Ross Young (@DSCCRoss) June 15, 2020
With the launch of the Huawei P40 series, Huawei introduced the new quad curved overflow display with a higher display refresh rate of 90Hz. Huawei phone’s previously limited to the 60Hz display.
A higher refresh rate allows the display to refresh the screen content more dynamically. The difference for you would be smoother animations compared to a 60Hz panel. Gaming would also be a treat, particularly in fast-paced titles.
According to the previous report, Huawei Mate 40 series will launch somewhere around October 2020. The phone will come pre-equipped with EMUI 11 (Android 11).
Huawei and Beijing Unicom finishing commercialization of 64T64R MetaAAU
Huawei and Beijing Unicom are hyping up the process of commercialization of the new-generation 64T64R MetaAAU product. According to the reports, both parties are speedily working on the completion of the commercial pilot plan of the MateAAU project in the residential areas.
So far, Huawei noticed that the household regions in the nation consist of a huge number of 5G users. Besides, these residential areas have a high demand for 5G technologies and services. Hence, the company decided to deploy some of the best and most innovative infrastructures in these regions.
Huawei 64T74R MetaAAU
The 64T64R is the new product of the Huawei MetaAAU series. The technology mainly aims at achieving both excellent performances as well as consuming less energy. Further, it has an ultra-large-scale array of technology that eventually increases the range of channels. In comparison to last year, the 64T64R offers 64TRx channels over 32TRx.
Huawei and Beijing Unicom have wrapped up the deployment of 64T64R MetaAAU in several urban areas till now. Ultimately, these regions now have the Massive MIMO products, based on large bandwidth of 3.5GHz intermediate frequency. In the meantime, the cooperations find that the demand for 5G services is rapidly growing in the residential areas.
As a result, Huawei and Beijing started planning the deployment of the new-generation MetaAAU product in other areas to provide the users with an unlimited 5G experience. One must note that the new product offers a downlink rate of 100Mbps and provides high-quality network construction.
MetaAAU 64T64R will offer a better and wider 5G experience!
Describing the future plans and current intentions, the President of Huawei 5G Product Line – Peng Honghua said the following words:
“Since the birth of MetaAAU, we have been commercializing it with Beijing Unicom in different scenarios of the existing network. We will continue to work with Beijing Unicom to verify more scenarios and give full play to the value of Massive MIMO technology to operators.”
Samsung, LG Smart TV market share declines in Q2 2022, while Huawei still doing great
Huawei knows very well how to maintain the quality of the products with time and make it stand at the top in the market. And here is the proof, recently released information indicates that while the top vendors have received a major decline in the Smart TV global market share, Huawei is still doing great with its products.
So far, we acknowledged that the global market for electronic equipment has fallen in the past few months. Consequently, this made a huge impact on the sales of smart gadgets including handset models, tablets, computers, and smart screens.
Unfortunately, this decline in equipment sales has given a major jerk to some of the high-tech manufacturers. According to the latest information, Samsung and LG are constantly facing a gradual decrease in their Smart TV sale.
The first quarter of this year remained at a moderate level for both parties. Samsung was standing at 32.9 percent of the market share while LG gained 17.7 percent. Together, they had a market share of 50.6 percent. However, in the second quarter, the combined market shares directly went below 50 percent.
Thereafter comes the Sony cooperation ranking at the third position with a decrease of 35.8 percent on yearly basis. If we talk about the reasons, it’s undoubtedly the high cost and lower demands of Smart TV in the global market.
Huawei Smart TV market share is at a good point!
It’s not only the global market, but even Chinese merchandise has faced the same scenario in the case of smart screen sales. In comparison to the first half, the Chinese Smart TV market has decreased to 10.5 percent. Yet, there are some brands such as Huawei, Redmi, and Hisense’s Vidda that made a good stand in tough circumstances as well.
Although we didn’t grab the accurate sales of the company. Yet, as per the reports, Huawei Smart TV sales have increased in both – the Chinese and the global market. Huawei brings on such products that are not only affordable but also performance-oriented. Ultimately, this strategy makes its devices higher in demand among consumers.
August 2022 Google Play System Update brings new UI for Autofill and expands Material You for apps
Google has released the August 2022 Play System update for Android devices that comes with various new improvements and system optimizations as well as bug fixes. These updates are available for various Android products including phones, tablets, Android TV and Google TV devices, Android Auto enabled vehicles, wear OS devices, and Chrome OS devices.
According to the information, the August 2022 Google Play System update changes and improvements in the Android system have been released starting August 18, 2022. These system improvements will expand gradually.
Below you can check the complete August 2022 Play System Update changelog.
Google Play Store:
- Improvements to the Play-as-you-download feature to let gamers start playing mobile games while the app download continues to reduce waiting times.
- New Features to help you discover the Apps & Games you love.
- Optimizations allow faster and more reliable download and installation.
- New features to the Play Pass and Play Points programs.
- Enhancements to Google Play Billing.
- Continuous improvements to Play Protect to keep your device safe.
- Various performance optimizations, bug fixes, and improvements to security, stability, and accessibility.
- [Phone] This release adds link groups to GoogleHelp to give users detailed help instructions from apps.
- [Phone] Adds support for Material 3 dynamic color in Android Help.
System Management & Diagnostics:
- [Phone] New settings screens provide better visibility into and control over the functionality of Google Play services on your device.
- [Phone] New UI for AutoFill.
- [Phone] Allows users to add new eMoney cards to Google Pay to pay on transit and in stores in Japan.
- New developer features for Google and third-party app developers to support Location & Context related developer services in their apps.
- Updates to system management services that improve security, and stability.


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Tristate Electrical & Electronics Supply Co. Inc., Hagerstown, Md., has acquired Allied Electric Supply Co., an electrical distributor serving the western Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia markets.
The purchase of Allied Electric, Pittsburgh, expands Tristate's market reach by adding a branch in West Virginia and 10 locations in the Pittsburgh area.
While this is a new market for Tristate, its parent company, Hagemeyer NV, Naarden, Netherlands, has had locations in the Pittsburgh area through Vallen, a safety distributor it purchased in 1999. Hagemeyer has also been in the Pittsburgh market through business done by the CamBar/McJunkin joint venture. However, it's the first time that Hagemeyer or any of the distributors it recently acquired will have a branch operation in Pittsburgh focused on selling electrical supplies.
Allied Electric's customer mix is approximately 60 percent contractor, 35 percent industrial/commercial and institutional and 5 percent retail and other customers.
"Because Allied Electric, previously owned by Ed Berman, uses a similar business philosophy, they are the perfect complement for news watch our expansion efforts in the mid-Atlantic region," said Grayson Oldfather, Tristate's president.
Berman agreed that Tristate and Allied Electric share a similar business philosophy. "Having been associated with Allied for 50 years, it was important that we find a buyer for the company that shared our philosophy of caring and respect for our employees and customers. Tristate is a perfect fit in that regard."
Fred Morrelli, Allied Electric's president, will oversee the newly created Pittsburgh region. He said Allied Electric will benefit from the acquisition because of Tristate's diversity. "The depth of experience in terms of specialty niches in our industry that Tristate has is incredible - I mean their datacom division, utility division, seven or eight specialty groups that we can really tap into relatively quickly. "
Allied Electric Supply will continue to operate under its own name.


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U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker today urged U.S. businesses to evaluate the benefits of reshoring their operations back to the United States during remarks at the “Reinvesting in America, Creating Jobs at Home” forum on Capitol Hill. Pritzker joined U.S. Representative Frank Wolf (R-Va.) in hosting the forum which focused on raising awareness of reshoring trends, highlighting best practices for companies considering reshoring, and introducing services offered by the Department of Commerce to potential investors. Attendees discussed how bringing operations back to the U.S. creates well-paying jobs and helps national and local economies grow and thrive.
“A growing number of global companies are realizing there has never been a better time to invest in America. Many of them are finding that the total cost of production and other expenses related to manufacturing abroad can carry costs and risks that outweigh the benefits and are considering domestic operations, ”said Penny Pritzker, U.S. Secretary of Commerce. “Businesses across the globe are looking to invest in U.S. manufacturing and services, and through SelectUSA, the Commerce Department is continuing its work to support and educate companies interested in reshoring.”
“This is not a Democrat issue or a Republican issue; it’s an American issue,” said Rep. Frank Wolf, chairman of the House Appropriations subcommittee that funds the Commerce Department and was the driving force behind today’s conference. “We have an opening now to accelerate the process of bringing these jobs back home. Many companies that have offshored are unhappy with the quality of goods produced overseas. Labor costs are rising rapid. Shipping costs are rising rapidly. The cost due to the theft of intellectual property by the Chinese government is almost incalculable. That’s why there has been so much more interest in reshoring manufacturing over the last several years. I believe this trend will continue to accelerate, especially with encouragement from the government and business community. A great nation cannot survive by exporting ideas and innovations alone. It needs to also produce these items as well. Our future depends on it.”
The Forum—organized by SelectUSA, a program housed within the Department of Commerce—brought together more than 200 members of the business community, representatives of state and local governments, national associations, and congressional staff, to hear directly from American business leaders and companies that are reshoring, and learn more about the latest trends and available resources to help businesses move their operations back to the United States.
Whirlpool Corporation Chief Executive Officer Jeff Fettig delivered keynote remarks and described how his company’s decision to move production of a line of front-load commercial washers from abroad to Clyde, Ohio, is creating new jobs and positively impacting the local economy.
Participants learned more about Walmart’s commitment to buy an additional $250 billion in U.S. products over the course of 10 years, and heard from companies successful in reshoring: K’NEX Brands, a toy manufacturer; Mantra Services, an IT services provider; and the Richelieu Legwear, makers of Peds brand socks and other legwear. Yesterday, Richelieu Legwear International, Inc., a SelectUSA client, announced its investment in a new, state-of-the-art facility that will reshore production from overseas and ultimately create more than 200 jobs here in the U.S.
To help U.S. manufacturers gauge factors that may influence their total cost of doing business and more clearly understand the advantages of the U.S. market, the Economic and Statistics Administration launched an updated Assess Costs Everywhere (ACE) tool during the forum. ACE, which links to public and private resources, as well as case studies, will be used across the Department of Commerce as officials work one-on-one with businesses and local governments across the country.
The United States is consistently ranked among the top destinations for investment. Earlier this month, A.T. Kearney’s annual Foreign Direct Investment Confidence Index ranked the United States as the top investment destination for the second year in a row, with the highest net positive position in the 16-year history of the index. In addition, the Boston Consulting Group found that the share of U.S. executives actively considering relocating manufacturing from China back to the United States rose to 54 percent in 2013, compared with 37 percent only 18 months earlier.
In addition to managing costs, successful manufacturing depends on the right competitive advantages, which America provides. The U.S. has one of the most skilled and productive workforces, and is making it a priority to build the skills that are in high demand. The nation also remains the most innovative place in the world, home to more than a third of total global R&D investment, as well as 15 of the top 25 leading research universities. Advanced technology, including robotics and 3-D printing, are enabling U.S. manufacturers to drastically cut time to market and make better – and more customized – products.
For more information on the benefits of investing in the U.S., visit www.selectusa.gov. To learn about advantages of manufacturing or sourcing in the United States, explore the ACE tool at http://acetool.commerce.gov/.
Housed within the U.S. Department of Commerce, SelectUSAis the U.S. government-wide program to facilitate business investment into the United States. SelectUSA assists U.S. states, counties and cities to compete for investment by providing information, a platform for international marketing, and high-level advocacy. SelectUSAalso helps investors find the information they need; connect to the right people at the local level; navigate the federal regulatory system and resolve federal issues.
About the Economics and Statistics Administration
The Economics and Statistics Administration (ESA) plays three key roles within the Department of Commerce (DOC). ESA provides timely economic analysis, disseminates national economic indicators, and oversees the U.S. Census Bureau (Census) and the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). ESA’s expert economists and analysts produce in-depth reports, fact sheets, and briefings on policy issues and current economic events. DOC and White House policymakers rely on these tools, as do American businesses, state and local governments, and news organizations around the world.
Source: U.S. Department of Commerce
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An entrepreneur who started a jerk chicken restaurant from her mum’s kitchen is among 13 London businesses to be win a share of £250,000.
Karis Theophane, the founder of Jerk Grill, started her venture in 2018 and has kept growing, despite the pandemic and her food truck being stolen.
Jerk Grill was among almost 1,000 other businesses to apply for the fund which supports black business owners.
Ms Theophane said the eatery was a “community anchor”.
“We have definitely outgrown Mum’s kitchen,” she said. “We are […] providing jobs for disadvantaged people and a place for people from all walks of life to gather.”
Ms Theophane said she had been operating out of a cafe in Pembury Community Centre in Hackney and had been providing employment for disadvantaged members of the local community.
She plans to open a dedicated jerk chicken restaurant in Clapton later this month.
“Providing a space like this can be an inspiration to the local community,” she said. “Empowering people to build an equitable future, be more confident and have a positive impact in society.”
Alongside the £10,000 grant, Ms Theophane has invested family savings into the new location.
She added: “Our new forever home also enables us to create five new jobs immediately as we continue to grow.”
The business, she said, will continue in its “social mission” of reducing food poverty and social isolation.
The Black Business Fund, set up by Uber Eats and run by Enterprise Nation, sees £250,000 distributed to 25 small black-owned businesses across the country.
According to government data about 6% of small and medium enterprises (SME) are ethnic-minority-led.
Lorraine Copes, founder of Be Inclusive hospitality and judge for the 2024 fund, said: “It fills me with optimism for the future of hospitality as I discover the diverse array of founders who entered the industry out of a genuine love for hospitality and food.
“Unfortunately, uncertainty appears to be following us into 2024, and I am pleased that this fund will offer a much-needed boost for black entrepreneurs.”
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Camelot, operator of the UK's National Lottery, announced ticket sales of £7.21bn ($9.15bn) for the 12 months ended 31 March, an increase of 4% year-on-year.
Camelot’s performance for the financial year saw it generate £1.65bn, excluding investment returns, for good causes.
Throughout the year, Camelot awarded £4.13bn in prize money to its players, as well as creating 406 brand new millionaires.
National Lottery’s digital sales hit a record £1.83bn, following investment into its digital channels and improvements to the National Lottery mobile app.
Scratch cards and online instant win games also recorded all-time high figures, increasing 10% to £3.13bn.
Retail has remained the largest sales channel for National Lottery, with almost 75% of total sales coming through in-store terminals. Sales during this period reached £5.4bn, an increase of 1%.
Camelot announced plans to increase its sales force and make sure more National Lottery games are to become available at self-checkouts to help improve the speed and service of sales.
Camelot spent 4% of total revenue on operations, making it one of the most cost-efficient major lotteries in Europe.
Nigel Railton, Camelot CEO, said: “We’ve spent much of the last 12 to 18 months getting our draw-based games back in good health – with a more balanced portfolio that now offers something for everyone and making improvements to our scratchcards and online instant win games in terms of product design, range, merchandising and availability.”


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PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Health will only accept payments using debit cards, credit cards and e-wallets effective Oct. 1 2022 after using its facilities as stated in a circular dated 21st June 2022.
The Ministry’s Secretary-General, Datuk Harjeet Singh said, cash payment would only be allowed if the customer does not have any e-payment mode or bank account.
Harjeet Singh said, the move was in line with the Ministry of Health’s Anti-Corruption Plan 2021-2022 which had outlined the initiative for cashless payment at its health facilities to prevent leakages in government revenue.
He added, the cashless payment is also in line with the 2021 Malaysian Digital Economy Blueprint which stated that all agencies at Federal and State levels must use cashless payment as an effective transaction method by this year.
The circular among others said, the cashless payment will not only reduce leakages of public money but also improve the efficiency of the revenue management at the counter as it is faster, easier and safer.
“The costs and work process in the revenue collection at the “pusat tanggungjawab” (PTJ) level will also be reduced besides the low risk of COVID-19 infection at the payment counter,” said the circular.
The circular added, the state health departments must ensure smooth operation of cashless payment at their respective facilities. They have to identify PTJs for the cashless payment using terminal-point-of-sale (TPOS) and DuitNow; identifying the number of counters that need to be equipped with TPOS and ensuring the person at the counter is trained to use TPOS. – Malaysia World News


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(Corrects net special charges range in seventh paragraph to $700 mln-$1 bln from $750 mln-$1 bln)
FRANKFURT, Dec 5 (Reuters) - General Motors will drop the use of the Chevrolet brand in Europe by end 2015, Stephen J. Girsky, Vice Chairman at General Motors, said on Thursday.
The move forms the latest effort by General Motors to turn around its European operations and to focus its resources on reviving the Opel brand.
“We have growing confidence in the Opel and Vauxhall brands in Europe. We are focusing our resources in mainstream Europe,” Girsky said.
The decision to drop the Chevy brand is not influenced by a partnership General Motors has with French partner Peugeot , Girsky said.
“This is done independent of the PSA relationship,” he said.
“Basically (we will) shut away the 1 percent share company in Europe. The financial results have been unacceptable,” he said on a call with journalists, referring to Chevrolet’s market share in Europe.
General Motors expects to record net special charges of $700 million to $1 billion primarily in the fourth quarter of 2013 and continuing in the first half of 2014, Girsky said.
Thomas Sedran, President of Chevrolet Europe, said, “Chevrolet’s business results have been impacted by the unfavourable economic environment in Europe.” (Reporting by Edward Taylor and Arno Schuetze; editing by Victoria Bryan and Tom Pfeiffer)


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The vegan steak has arrived, but what does it taste like?
Confirmed carnivores unlikely to be impressed – but it’s probably not aimed at them
Tesco Veggie Steak: “It does not taste bad but nor does it taste good”
If a vegan steak that promises to be “barely distinguishable from the real thing” when it comes to taste, texture and smell sounds too good to be true, it is.
Tesco has staked a claim to be the first retailer to bring a 100 per cent plant-based fillet steak look-alike to the Irish market. But meat lovers who try its new veggie steak will almost certainly be disappointed and find themselves asking “Where’s the beef?”


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In a press release, Opposition Spokesman for Finance & Planning Mark Golding said – “For this to be happening during the height of the Winter Tourist Season is unusual and perplexing, and there has been no clear and definitive explanation from either the Government or the BOJ as to what is causing this shortage of US Dollars and the rapid devaluation.
"There were dealers in the market today selling at J$138 to US$1.00 when just three weeks ago the rate was in the J$127 range. Businesses and consumers are anxious and need to know what is going on.”
Mr. Golding observed that “businesses are unable to find the foreign exchange to pay their overseas suppliers, and this is adversely affecting their credit arrangements. And at these exchange rate levels, prices of imported goods can be expected to adjust, to the detriment of consumers.”
The Opposition Finance spokesman pointed out that “this is happening again after the BOJ has recently announced that Jamaica has breached the lower end of the Government’s inflation target, for the second time this fiscal year."
He said "It is a repetition of what took place in June/July last year, and in the absence of any explanation from the monetary authorities, I once again I ask the question –Are these repeated bouts of exchange rate volatility what Jamaica must expect as an unwelcome side effect of the BOJ adopting inflation targeting as its primary objective?”
- Countries: Jamaica
- JAMAICA | Chinese embassy hits out against comments by US Secretary of State
- JAMAICA | US And Jamaica To Strengthen Cooperation On Security Matters
- Pompeo Says US Wants To Work More Closely With The Caribbean To Combat Threats
- JAMAICA | Latest Ranking Confirms Island's Corrupt Image says Opposition
- JAMAICA not obliged to harmonize foreign policy with any nation says Johnson-Smith


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Anilkumar SG. Founder & CEO | Samunnati
Samunnati had been the overwhelming selection of the jury when you look at the enterprise that is social for the sheer scale and complexity for the challenges that the nonbanking finance business (NBFC) is trying to tackle in agricultural finance through its distinctive market-linkage model.
The fintech loan provider, which runs into the niche intersection of agri technology and finance, has disbursed loans well worth over Rs 4,200 crore, serving 4 million farmers that are small 112 districts in the nation since its inception in 2014.
“It really is hard to not acknowledge the scale of Samunnati versus the other people right right here. It is simply running at an extremely scale that is differentвЂќ said a part of this jury. The panel acknowledged not only just exactly what it offers accomplished, but in addition the possibility for development.
The business’s social goals in bridging the credit space through efficient utilization of technology additionally aligns because of the federal government’s economic inclusion mandate through various schemes of Digital Asia.
Founder and CEO Anil Kumar, a veteran banker with more than 27 several years of experience, stated the NBFC has followed a growth-oriented approach to enable the agriculture community.
“If this recognition for Samunnati inspires a generation of young business owners to enter the company of farming finance, that might be the best acknowledgment for all of us,вЂќ he said, incorporating that industry for development and producing significant social impact is endless. The dimensions of Asia’s agricultural finance marketplace is about $250 billion. While about 50 % the individuals derive their income that is primary from, over 80% are tiny and marginal farmers.
Unlike old-fashioned loan providers farm that is financing, Samunnati does not restrict itself to crop owners. It stretches credit to any or all stakeholders into the agricultural supply string by way of a type of market linkage.
Furthermore, the business, which employees over 500, additionally provides substantial advisory solutions to little farmers and companies with an eye fixed to educating them into becoming more self-reliant by using technology. Many traditional lenders froze all financing once the lockdown began nevertheless the startup disbursed loans worth Rs 330 crore when you look at the June quarter.
Samunnati clocked Rs 729 core in income in FY20, a figure that caught the jury’s attention together with the business’s range and ingenuity. “It really is re re re solving an objective at scale! We have a winner that is clearвЂќ said a part associated with panel.
Shashi Kumar, creator, Akshayakalpa.
Akshayakalpa | Shashi Kumar, Venkatesh Seshasayee, Ranjith Mukundan, Ravishankar Shiroor, Ramakrishna title loans online Adukuri, Praveen Nale, Giridhar Bhat, Ramkumar Iyer and Mohammed Ashraf
Akshayakalpa is a organic milk and milk products brand name. The organization helps farmers arranged little, natural dairy farms and offers economic and tech support team in addition to use of areas.
GoCoop | Siva Devireddy
GoCoop | Siva DevireddyGoCoop is an on-line market that can help Asia’s weavers and artisans list and offer their products or services to clients straight. The business additionally works together numerous cooperatives and groups, while bringing up to speed organizations as purchasers for his or her services and products. It has additionally launched its very own personal label, the great Loom.
(L-R) Krishna Kumar and Kunal Prasad, co-founders, CropIn Technology possibilities
CropIn | Krishna Kumar & Kunal PrasadCropIn provides software- based farming methods to all or any key stakeholders when you look at the agricultural sector. It caters to farming and agri-input businesses, crop insurance firms, federal federal government and advisories. It creates 50 % of its income from Global areas, and aims to develop that to 60-65% within the next 36 months.
(L-R) Suhani Mohan and Kartik Mehta, co-founders, Saral Design Options
Saral Designs | Suhani Mohan & Kartik MehtaSaral Design Solutions is focusing on increasing usage of highquality sanitary napkins and medical masks utilizing technology, decentralised production and last-mile circulation. It manufactures machines that produce high-quality menstrual hygiene items at fewer than half the price charged by MNCs.


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Virtual Trade Fair Current Affairs, GK & News
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) launched the first virtual trade fair on March 10, 2021. It will conclude on March 12, 2021. Highlights This trade fair was organised in order to boost the export of agricultural and processed food products. APEDA has initiated this concept of the virtual trade fair ..


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November 25, 2015
Wellness innovations were a hit at this year’s MN Cup.
The device can wirelessly send information to physicians.
November 24, 2015
There’s a prickly situation confronting Minnesotans getting their flu vaccinations. The nasal spray that many patients prefer to needles is in short supply at clinics these days, meaning more...
November 19, 2015
UnitedHealthcare, the biggest health insurer in the country, could pull out of the Affordable Care Act because it is proving too expensive for the company. The Minnetonka-based company on Thursday...
A new study found the revolutionary pacemaker lessened major complications by half compared to conventional models.
November 10, 2015
The former president and former CFO of Starkey both had items confiscated from their homes, which included a computer, documents and a car.
November 05, 2015
Hennepin County Medical Center will break ground next week on a $224 million expansion of its campus in downtown Minneapolis, now that the County Board has given final approval to the financing for...
November 04, 2015
The discounts for medical pot will continue. Minnesota Medical Solutions is continuing its 50 percent off deal for first-time customers, it announced Monday. The deal – which was initially started...
November 02, 2015
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November 01, 2015
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Skype was barely profitable when Microsoft bought the VoIP and video chat service last year. Nonetheless, Microsoft is hoping to boost its other products by integrating Skype video chat. So far, it hasn't happened for Microsoft's big consumer products, such as Windows Phone and Kinect.
Google Almost Bought Yelp for $500 Million
In 2009, Google reportedly offered $500 million to acquire Yelp, a Website where users write their own reviews for local businesses. Yelp walked away, and Google was left to build its own local listings, with help from Zagat, which it acquired for $151 million.
Yahoo Bought Flickr for Just $35 Million
Compared to what Facebook paid for Instagram, Yahoo's purchase of Flickr in 2005 seems like a bargain. But Flickr failed to capitalize on the rise of smartphones and was simultaneously outshone by Facebook's own photo sharing. The site is most definitely not worth $1 billion now.


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Update 3.21 has arrived for Fortnite and here’s the full list of changes and fixes added with this patch.
Epic Games already released update 3.20 not too long ago. This new update added a ton of new content to the game, including the UFO Mothership. The update also addressed some minor bug issues that the game has been having as well.
Well Epic Games has now released another new update for Fortnite releasing today for PC, PlayStation and Xbox platforms. It’s only a small update that fixes some tiny issues with the previous patch.
If you play the game on Nintendo Switch, this same update will be released at a later date. In terms of file size, people on social media says the patch is around 1.5 GB on Xbox platforms. The file size may vary on PC and PlayStation.
Anyway, you can read the small note about this update below via the game’s Status Twitter page.
Fortnite Update 3.21 Patch Notes
“We are deploying a maintenance patch on PC, PlayStation consoles and Xbox consoles to address stability issues on Xbox One and to fix the Combat Pro control layout issues. We will let you know when the update is available on Nintendo Switch.”
If more patch notes are revealed, we’ll be sure to update this post. Fortnite is available now for the PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and Android platforms.
- This article was updated on July 9th, 2021


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2Ten Coffee Roasters expands after fire
A feeling of devastation shook Steven Svoboda II when he saw the heart of his business go up in flames days before Christmas in 2014.
But as he viewed the smoldering warehouse in Anthony, Texas -- where his coffee roaster, burlap bags filled with several thousand pounds of coffee beans, and computer equipment were housed -- his mindset quickly shifted. He forgot the devastation and began figuring out how to get coffee to customers.
"We worked really hard to get those customers and we weren't going to lose them," Svoboda recalled last week.
"I'm a very competitive person," said Svoboda, a Franklin High School graduate and former New Mexico State University basketball player. "I like to win. I'm not one to fold."
Thirteen months after the fire, 2Ten Coffee Roasters is not only still in business, it's growing from its new base at 3007 Montana in the Five Points area of Central El Paso, where Seham's House of Coffee had been located.
Svoboda, 33, is co-owner and director of operations for 2Ten, which began five years ago as a West Side drive-through coffee shop licensed under the Bear Creek Coffee brand.
He and his partner, El Paso management consultant Scott Munden, still operate the drive-through at 643 N. Resler. But they exited their license to sell Indiana-roasted Bear Creek Coffee. About three years ago, they started roasting their own coffee and changed their business name to 2Ten. The name is tied to the boiling point of water in El Paso -- 210 degrees, which is the best temperature for brewing coffee, Svoboda said.
The company, with five employees besides Svoboda, roasted 45,000 to 50,000 pounds of coffee last year -- more than double the amount it roasted at the Anthony warehouse, he said. It has more than 50 wholesale customers, including dozens of El Paso area restaurants, offices, hotel and others. It also supplies coffee for its Resler drive-through and Montana Avenue coffee shop. Besides supplying coffee roasted to a customer's specifications, 2Ten also supplies brewing equipment, and brewing instructions, he said.
It had about $500,000 in sales last year, Svoboda said.
2Ten is one of only a few wholesale coffee roasters in the fledgling coffee-roasting industry in the El Paso-Las Cruces area, Svoboda said.
Bldg 6 Coffee Roasters operates in East El Paso and Picacho Coffee is a Las Cruces coffee roaster.
"There was no (wholesale coffee) roaster in the El Paso area when I started in 2009," said Chad Morris, 36, Picacho owner and roaster. However, some coffee shops and restaurants do their own roasting, he noted.
Morris started roasting as a hobby, and it grew into a business that supplies 40 to 50 big and small wholesale clients, including several El Paso restaurants, he said.
"There's enough room for all of us, and there can be more" local roasters, Morris said.
Rudy Valdes, chef and co-owner of Pan y Agua restaurant group, has been buying coffee from Svoboda for several years for the group's restaurants, including three Crave Kitchen and Bar locations, and Hillside Coffee and Donut Shop on the West Side.
"Steven has the same level of passion and dedication on the coffee side as we have on the food side," Valdes said. "I can't imagine how he felt" when his roasting facility burned down, he said. "It must have been terrifying."
"It was very uncomfortable for him for a little bit because he had to have his product roasted somewhere else. But I tell him it was the biggest blessing he ever got" because now the business is in a bigger roasting facility and is "set up for the next big step," Valdes said. "It's the story of the Phoenix rising from the ashes."
Munden, 2Ten co-owner, agreed with that assessment.
"As devastating as the fire was to our production capability, not to mention emotionally, I believe it has actually put us in a better position to execute our expansion strategy," Munden said in an email sent from Baghdad, where he was doing consulting work last week for his main company, SLMM International.
Svoboda knew nothing about the coffee business when Munden asked him to help open the Resler drive-through in 2010. That was shortly after Munden had opened a coffee shop in Baghdad, which has since closed. Svoboda took a weeklong course in 2010 at a Portland, Ore., coffee school and fell in love with that city's huge coffee culture -- a culture he's trying to help grow here, he said.
Svoboda, who once had a dream to play in the NBA, said he was hungry to succeed in business when Munden asked him to operate the coffee shop.
Munden said Svoboda has grown into a brilliant entrepreneur who is able to handle the roller-coaster ride of building a successful small business.
"He runs the entire (2Ten) operation from top to bottom and has created a repeatable business framework that makes it easy to plan for expansion and meet the demands of the market," Munden said.
Svoboda said about two days after the Dec. 19, 2014, fire, he contacted friend and former Bear Creek Coffee brand owner Matt Swenson, now director of U.S. operations for Nobletree Coffee, which operates a coffee roasting facility in New York. Nobletree roasted coffee to 2Ten's specifications and shipped it to El Paso. That bought time while Svobada figured out how to get another coffee roaster.
"You can't just buy a coffee roaster down the street. It takes months to get one," Svobada said.
He contacted local roasters to see if 2Ten could temporarily buy time on their machines. That led to Seham's House of Coffee, which had a large coffee roasting machine. The business was started by Esau Halow, who died in fall 2014. A son was operating it and 2Ten made a deal to buy Seham's equipment and take over its Five Points location, Svobada said. Insurance money from the fire helped to partially finance the deal, he said.
By Jan. 6, 2015, 2Ten was roasting coffee again, and by the end of February 2015. the coffee shop had been remodeled and renamed to 2Ten Roastery and Cafe. The coffee shop is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, with coffee roasted on Thursdays and Fridays. The area doesn't yet have enough traffic to make night and weekend hours worthwhile, Svoboda said.
Svoboda and Munden are now looking for another El Paso location to add a third coffee shop this year.
"The coffee industry has changed dramatically (in recent years) in a good way. People care about the coffee they are drinking," Svoboda said as he stood near the roasting machine inside 2Ten's Montana coffee shop. "You can put a smile on somebody's day" with a good cup of coffee, he said. "It's a never-ending journey to find the perfect cup."
Vic Kolenc may be reached at firstname.lastname@example.org; 546-6421; @vickolenc on Twitter.
Area coffee roasters
2Ten Coffee Roasters, 3007 Montana and 643 N. Resler, 2tencoffeeroasters.com
Bldg 6 Coffee Roasters, 11385 James Watt, Suite B-6, bldg6coffee.com
Picacho Coffee, Las Cruces (no retail facility), picachocoffee.com