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One of the centerpieces of Sony's press briefing at the Electronic Entertainment Expo was the first live demo of MAG. (See video below.) The first-party military shooter was shown being simultaneously played by 256 employees of its developer, Zipper Interactive, from a variety of points of view. Commanders will see a top-down video of the battlefield from which they can direct lower-level soldiers, who will see a grunt's-eye view.
Playable on the show floor, the PlayStation 3-exclusive MAG made an impression on many E3 attendees, who were eager to pick it up later this year. Now, though, it appears the wait may be a bit longer. Though Sony said at E3 that the game would ship in the fall, both GameStop and GameFly are now listing it as arriving in January 2010. Conversely, Best Buy is still listing the game as arriving in October, while Amazon is not offering up a ship date at all.
[UPDATE] When asked about the date change, a Sony rep said, "We have made no announcements in regards to MAG's launch date. Retailers are speculating." Often, however, retailers will update their databases before a delay is made public--although on many occasions they will also enter placeholder dates.
Meanwhile, Electronic Arts is being completely clear about its release plans for Dragon Age: Origins, the role-playing game from BioWare due out on October 20. Besides the previously announced no-frills edition ($49.99 PC, $59.99 consoles), the game will come in a collector's edition that will retail for $64.99 on the PC and $74.99 on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
The collector's edition will feature a tin case, a cloth map, and an extra-laden bonus DVD that includes a soundtrack, a strategy guide, concept art footage, wallpapers, and a "making-of" documentary. It will also feature several virtual goods, including the "Stone Prisoner" bonus quest and an unlockable character called Shale. The disc will feature three other pieces of in-game content whose types were unspecified:"Bergens Honor," "Grimoire of the Frozen Wastes," and "Final Reason." Those who preorder the game from GameStop will get two other in-game items that increase health regeneration and experience accrual.
Finally, also included in the Dragon Age: Origins collector's edition is an unnamed in-game item to be used in another BioWare game, Mass Effect 2, due out in spring 2010.
Please note, while retailer listings frequently jump the gun on publishers' product announcements, they should not be taken as final confirmation of a game's release date or existence; nor should the absence of a listing be considered as proof that a game isn't coming to a given platform.


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PENTAHOTELS is planning to unveil a total of 80 properties worldwide by 2020, with 60 per cent of the openings in Asia and the rest in Europe.
Sonia Cheng, CEO of Hong Kong-based New World Hospitality, which owns the Pentahotels brand, said: “Half of the expansion in Asia will take place in China. We will look into first-, second- and even third-tier cities. In some major cities, we will even target having three or four hotels due to the high growth. Our business model in China is to (focus on) hotel management, so we will work with local developers and owners for upcoming expansions. Still, we plan to own and manage 30 per cent of the new hotels in China.”
Apart from its two existing properties in China, which include the recently rebranded Pentahotel Beijing (TTG Asia e-Daily, January 7, 2011) and Pentahotel Shanghai, the group will launch a 197-room hotel in Guiyang next year and a 390-room hotel in Shenyang in 2014. Future properties will be located in urban centres, convention and exhibition complexes, airports and rail stations, Cheng revealed.
Hong Kong’s first pentahotel will debut in summer 2013 in East Kowloon near Kai Tak Cruise Terminal. Built, owned and managed by the group, this 32-storey hotel is set to be the largest pentahotel property with 720 rooms.
“As a design-led hotel, it’s different from traditional hotels. We don’t have a large lobby but stylish settings to woo the young at heart. We are aiming the FITs and digital nomads, as well as entrepreneurs who work nearby,” said Cheng.
Rates for pentahotel Hong Kong are not yet available but they will be much higher than Shanghai and Beijing where rates average around US$70, Cheng said.
Highlighting the role of travel experts in pentahotels’ development, the group’s vice president of sales and marketing, Dexter Chia, said: “We have developed a lot of travel (consultant) support for pentahotels in Shanghai and Beijing. When pentahotel Kowloon joins sister hotels in Shanghai and Beijing, business will be mutually reinforced through ‘road warriors’ who travel between these cities.
“Hong Kong travel (consultants) may not yet be familiar with the penta concept, so we’ll be arranging trial stays when pentahotel Kowloon opens and encourage bookings through incentives.”

domain: news


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Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor, together with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), a regional development bank for Asia and the Pacific, announced their collaboration to finance up to $100 million in green trade transactions across the region.
This initiative will be administered through ADB’s Trade and Supply Chain Finance Programme (TSCFP) and aims at supporting renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate-smart agriculture, aiding the region’s transition to sustainable energy and enhancing climate resilience.
In South and South-East Asia, regions highly susceptible to climate change, the development and supply of renewable energy is crucial for realising regional sustainability objectives.
Trade plays a vital role in this context, facilitating the movement of goods that aid regions in mitigating and adapting to climate change effects. A global trade finance shortfall of approximately $2.5 trillion annually indicates that businesses struggle to access necessary funds for trading goods used in climate projects.
Additionally, local banks often find it challenging to fulfil the demand for extended credit terms needed for financing climate project-related goods, particularly in the renewable energy domain.
The collaboration between BII and ADB seeks to bridge this global trade finance gap and cater to the unmet need for extended credit for green transactions. The risk-sharing arrangement between the two entities will enable international banks to enhance their financial support to local banks, starting in Vietnam and then expanding to other nations assisted by BII and ADB.
This arrangement will provide vital financing for local importers of solar panels, wind turbines, electric vehicles, and agricultural products, facilitating the region’s shift to more sustainable energy sources.
Andrew Mitchell, UK Minister for Development and Africa, said, “This agreement between BII and the Asian Development Bank will unlock crucial green trade finance in Asia. It demonstrates how, by working together, the development finance system can mobilise the private finance so urgently needed to support countries in their transition to low carbon, climate-resilient economies.”
Admir Imami, Director and Head of Trade and Supply Chain Finance at BII, remarked, “Trade finance is not only critical to job creation and economic growth, but also a key enabler for green sectors to thrive by facilitating trade of green goods and strengthening the supply chain industry in the region. Designed to address the financing gap, the BII-ADB facility will empower financial institutions and businesses to deliver strong impact on productivity, sustainability and inclusion via greater access to credit.”
Suzanne Gaboury, Director General for Private Sector Operations at ADB, said, “This collaboration with BII will strengthen ADB TSCFP’s capacity to further grow green supply chains in Asia-Pacific region, with a focus on energy transition goods that are essential for tackling climate change.”
The BII-ADB trade finance partnership aligns with SDG 7 on Affordable and Clean Energy and SDG 13 on Climate Action.


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At the end of last month, Zion Markets Research, a market analysis firm in India, released an industry report on global mobile payments, according to media reports.
According to the report, global mobile payment scale in 2017 is about 123.5 billion us dollars, by 2024, this number will increase to 337.16 billion us dollars, a compound growth rate of up to 60%.
Visible, the whole market on the development prospects of mobile payment is quite optimistic.
So, in the United States, who is the most frequently used mobile payment App
US: PayPal payment and Starbucks app go hand
PayPal: Universal Worldwide
Although the penetration rate of mobile payments in the United States is only 17%, but the birth of a number of well-known mobile payment applications.
For example, relying on the American e-commerce website Ebay started, the world’s leading PayPal payment procedures.
The main advantage of PayPal payment procedure is that cross-border payment, commonly used in international trade settlement, is the main means of payment for overseas e-commerce transactions.
PayPal is an international trade payment tool popular with hundreds of millions of users around the world.
Surprisingly, however, the most frequently used mobile payment program in the United States is not the PayPal mobile payment App, but Starbucks ‘ mobile payment App.
Starbucks App: The most frequently used
According to statistics, more than 40% people in the United States are using Starbucks app to pay.
This is mainly because americans love starbucks and are used to prepaid or electronic CARDS.
Coupled with the fact that Starbucks has many retail outlets in the United States, it is more convenient to use the Starbucks app.
In 2017, the number of users who completed payment through starbucks App reached 20.7 million, far exceeding Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Pay and other mainstream mobile payment products.
However, Starbucks app only applies to the purchase of Starbucks products, and more use of recharge cards or credit cards to trade.
Therefore, although its user activity is high, but it is not a “serious” mobile payment application.
So the question is, why is mobile payment penetration low in the United States
In the United States, the basic reason why the penetration rate of mobile payment is not high is that the tax system leads to the high use of cash in the United States, thus reducing the growth space of mobile payment.
Unlike China’s tax collection on companies, the United States mainly uses a filing system to collect taxes on individuals.
That means higher incomes, more savings, and more taxes.
As a result, American street vendors, or some private restaurants, rarely accept mobile payments. That would make it harder for them to hide the true flow of their cash and pay more taxes.
Second, the United States has one of the world’s largest Banks, and almost every American has the habit of using credit CARDS to pay their bills, which obviously takes time to change.


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The winners of the 2017 Vodacom Journalist of the Year Awards were recently announced from over 1 000 entries received over a variety of categories.
After one of the most hotly contested awards in the competition’s history, due to the extraordinary variety and calibre of entries, the winners of the 2017 Vodacom Journalist of the Year Awards were announced this evening. The theme for the awards was ‘Your Word’ and this year over 1 000 entries were received from all over the country across the twelve categories.
The judges agreed that one big story stood head and shoulders above all the others. It is a story which has serious implications for our relatively young democracy (see judges’ full citation below): The Overall National winners are from the competition’s Financial/Economic category for #GuptaLeaks – the team from the Daily Maverick, AmaBhungane and News24: Branko Brkic, Pauli van Wyk, Lester Freamon, Adriaan Basson, Richard Poplak, Adi Eyal, Micah Reddy, Susan Comrie, Angelique Serrao, Stefaans Brummer, Antoinette Muller, Marianne Thamm, Sam Sole, Tabelo Timse, Pieter-Louis Myburgh, Craig McKune, Lionel Faull, Rebecca Davis and Sally Evans.
Convenor of the judging panel Ryland Fisher says: “This year has been a particularly good one for South African journalists who have shown that, despite dwindling resources, they are still able to chase big and important stories. It was extremely difficult for the judges to decide on national winners, let alone overall winners, because of the strength of the entries we received. We are proud of the many amazing stories that journalists investigated, once again affirming the important role of the media in a democracy.”
Takalani Netshitenzhe, Chief Officer for Corporate Affairs at the Vodacom Group, says: “It’s been one of the most exciting awards to date and we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to all of tonight’s winners. Vodacom supports journalistic excellence in South Africa and we are proud that the VJOYs continue to attract world-class submissions.”
“I would also like to pay tribute to our esteemed judges, who give so much time and effort to the adjudication process every year. Our sincere thanks go to Ryland Fisher, Mary Papayya, Arthur Goldstuck, Elna Rossouw, Patricia McCracken, Nikiwe Bikitsha, Megan Rusi, Mathatha Tsedu, Albe Grobbelaar and Obed Zilwa.”
Veteran journalist Dr. Phil Mtimkulu is the winner of the 2017 Vodacom Journalist of the Year Lifetime Achiever Award. He was one of the founding members of the Union of Black Journalists in 1972 and was its secretary when it was banned on October 19, 1977 along with other black consciousness organisations and three publications. After the ban lapsed, Dr. Mtimkulu went on to forge an illustrious career in journalism, working for The Sowetan as a journalist and for The Star as assistant news editor. In 1987 he joined academia, teaching at Unisa and taking his work as a journalist to a higher level (see full citation in Notes to Editors).
The national winners in the various categories are as follows, with each winner taking home R10 000:
For a series depicting the faces of a tragedy that shocked the entire country and turned the spotlight on health service delivery, our national television feature winners are: Kyla Herrmannsen, Shamiel Albertyn, Ashley Market, Tshepo Dhlamini, Tshidiso Lechuba and Sungani Phiri of eNCA’s Checkpoint and Health-e for “Life Esidemini”.
For going off the beaten track to deliver an illuminating and engaging story that dispels the assumption that South African cricket is a white man’s sport, the national winners are: Ronald Masinda and Nceba Ntlanganiso of eNCA for “A game loved by All”.
Online journalism in South Africa proved that it had come of age in 2017, thanks to support from both mainstream media and from several independent institutions training and guiding journalists and assigning investigative projects. Data journalism is the freshest of journalistic disciplines and was well combined by our national winners with investigative techniques to uncover the potentially life-or-death delays to the prescribed removal of asbestos in schools. The national winners are: Laura Grant & Alastair Otter for “Hidden danger: asbestos in Gauteng’s schools” for Passmark and TimesLive.
As well as creatively using a wide variety of sound elements and production techniques to grab the listener’s attention, the national winner persevered for nearly two years in investigating the story of an innocent man who spent 17 years in jail. The national winners are: Paul McNally, Kutlwano Serame, John Bartmann and Freddy Mabitsela of Citizen Justice Network for SAfm for the eight-part series, Alibi.
Excellent use by several finalists of investigative journalism techniques emphasised how this category has grown in strength this year. For an outstanding and brave expose of corruption allegations threatening the region’s water supply, the national winner is: Sipho Masondo of City Press for “Watergate”.
The national winner combined to devastating effect two crucial virtues of investigative journalism – courage and the stamina to slog through reams of evidence. The entry also made maximum use of the elastic capacity to combine text, graphics, photographs and other elements in the digital space. For persevering with a story that shook the nation, the national winner is: for #GuptaLeaks the team from the Daily Maverick, AmaBhungane and News24: Branko Brkic, Pauli van Wyk, Lester Freamon, Adriaan Basson, Richard Poplak, Adi Eyal, Micah Reddy, Susan Comrie, Angelique Serrao, Stefaans Brummer, Antoinette Muller, Marianne Thamm, Sam Sole, Tabelo Timse, Pieter-Louis Myburgh, Craig McKune, Lionel Faull, Rebecca Davis and Sally Evans.
The winning Radio News finalist clearly understood the radio medium, knowing how to balance narration, emotion, drama and even some striking sound effects. For an outstanding report on the dangers of WhatsApp voice notes, the national winner is: Hanri Wondergem of SABC RSG for “WhatsApp-paniek”.
In a particularly strong news year, one story largely defined the news agenda and dominated political discourse. The national winners for Print News are: for the “State capture” series, the Tiso Blackstar team of Graeme Hosken, Thanduxolo Jika, Kyle Cowan, Sikonathi Mantshantsha, Qaanitah Hunter, Sabelo Skiti, Hanna Ziady, Siphe Macanda, Genevieve Quintal and Mzilikazi wa Afrika.
The national winner for Print Feature was true to journalism’s duty as the voice of the voiceless and the poor. The judges hope that the winning depiction of the festering legacy of a single-sex women’s hostel will prick the conscience of both eThekwini Metro and the KZN provincial government to create accommodation for these mothers and children that respects human dignity. The winners are: Tania Broughton and Thuli Dlamini of The Times for “Inside apartheid’s hostel”.
More than twenty years after achieving democracy, South Africa did not expect to see what looked like pre-apartheid protest battles as young people fought for affordable tertiary education for all. For dramatic, informative and fluid coverage, the winners are: Malungelo Booi, Lirandzu Themba, Mlingane Dube and Thuthuka Zondi of eNCA for “South Africa’s fees crisis”.
A good photograph tells a story – but a great photograph also makes one feel the truth of the moment depicted. Two finalists particularly laid bare the frustrations, anger and eventual pain flowing though large sections of South Africa now. The joint national winners are: for emotive photographic reports of today’s youth revolution: Alon Skuy of The Times for “Fees must fall”. AND for a creative photographic essay showing the devastating consequences of South Africa’s scourge of domestic violence: Phandulwazi Jikelo of the Cape Times for “Blind and in despair amid hardship”.
This award provides an opportunity to fast track a young journalist’s professional and personal development through an all-expenses paid overseas trip that includes a visit to the renowned Thomson Foundation, as well as the opportunity to work in a newsroom. This year’s winner is Monique Mortlock from Eyewitness News.
Huawei goes ultra-premium
Porsche Design and Huawei have launched the Porsche Design Huawei Mate RS in South Africa exclusive to MTN and retailing for R 26 459.
The Porsche Design Huawei Mate RS boasts features like the world’s first dual fingerprint design, including an in-screen fingerprint sensor, the world’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) processor and Leica triple camera with 40MP image capture.
“After the overwhelming success of the Porsche Design Huawei Mate 10 Pro in South Africa, we now bring you our latest offering, a perfect blend of innovation in a smartphone and luxury design,” said Likun Zhao, Vice President of Huawei Consumer Business Group Southern Africa. “From three-point security feature including facial recognition, rear fingerprint scanner and the new innovative in-screen fingerprint to the Leica triple camera system. it culminates in an unprecedented experience for our customers.”
The device incorporates Porsche Design’s signature design language and Huawei’s breakthrough technology. The phone has a 6” 2K curved OLED screen and symmetrical look, minimalist feel and 8-edged 3D curved glass body.
High performance is symbolised by the naming of the smartphone: the term “RS” in the world of Porsche motorsport stands for outstanding racing performance.
Huawei provided the following information on The Porsche Design Huawei Mate RS benefits and features :
· The world’s first dual fingerprint scanner for enhanced convenience, allowing users to wake and unlock the device simply, thanks to an in-screen fingerprint sensor. Hover to wake the device, touch to unlock it
· The winning combination of Leica triple camera with 40MP RGB sensor technology and exceptional photography powered by Master AI. This combination puts effortless, eye-catching photography at the fingertips of those looking to immortalise their favourite moments. Combined with 5 x hybrid zoom, and the world’s first AI image stabilisation on a smartphone camera ensures photography lovers can capture the best shots with exceptional clarity in almost any situation
· The Porsche Design Huawei Mate RS is the first Huawei handset to allow quick wireless charging, making it even easier to keep the phone topped up and ready to go and, thanks to its long lasting battery, users will easily be powered through the busiest of days
· An ‘intelligent’ smartphone, the powerful AI processor automatically tailors the performance of the phone according to how it is used – constantly learning, understanding and anticipating needs, it is the perfect personal assistant for the pocket
· 256GB of internal storage means those constantly on the go and constantly on their phone can be worry free
· Dual SLS (super linear system) speakers with DOLBY ATMOS enable users to have a superior experience, with the best immersive surround sound and entertainment on the go
· Splash, water and dust resistant, which means there is no need to worry about damaging the device in the rain or accidentally dropping it in water
Jan Becker, CEO Porsche Design Group, said: “Both Porsche Design and Huawei seek to imagine and develop products that stand for precision and perfection, intelligent functionality and highly sophisticated design. Our aim was to create an outstanding device that goes one step further. We believe we have reached this goal by taking our partnership to the next level.”
Porsche Design and Huawei have worked in tandem to develop a smartphone that fuses together the two brands’ DNA, wealth of experience in design and technology, industry-leading expertise and exceptional performance. Through the use of colour in the device’s body, software themes and accessories, the new handset is accentuated with Porsche Design’s distinguished aesthetic and purist, minimalist feel.
The Porsche Design Huawei Mate RS will be available to purchase exclusively from MTN at R 26 459.
Cross-channel chat launched
Clickatell has launched a cross-channel live chat service, Touch Go, that transforms omni-channel customer care.
It enables live chat across a company’s website as well as social platforms (Twitter and Facebook) and mobile apps, bringing customer care and engagement into a single business platform.
“Today’s consumers expect to engage with your brand on the digital channel of their choosing,” says Deon van Heerden, Clickatell Engage CEO and Group CFO. “They want to message your business and instantly have queries resolved, find the information and services they are looking for, without the need for a voice call. Clickatell’s Touch Go makes that happen with the right level of capabilities for businesses of all sizes.”
Businesses can start using Touch Go immediately, with a free Starter option. Touch Go requires no credit card for sign-up and is fully featured with a simple setup process. It offers customisable branding, a unified chat desk business application as well as reports and analytics.
As the business scales up its digital customer care, it can opt-in for the Touch Enterprise offering. Touch Enterprise is designed for scaling up customer care efforts through advanced capabilities including AI driven virtual agents, sentiment analysis, automated workflows, enterprise integrations and in-channel mini-applications.
“Customer care has become a defining factor for sustained business success ” says Nirmal Nair, Clickatell Engage EVP Product & Marketing. “In an ever-increasing mobile native world, customers often choose to interact digitally, but they also expect to be able to reach a human immediately, should they need. Monitoring multiple channels and providing immediate action becomes challenging with siloed deployments. Touch’s unified solution allows businesses of all sizes to provide the customer delight in a simple modular approach.”


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Hitting the Reset Button: How to Pivot the Perception of Economic Development
6 Jul 2020
While it had been building for a few years, in the months leading up to the economic shutdown prompted by the COVID-19 crisis, economic development around the country was on the ropes. Certain cities — including Austin and Nashville — had made the decision to no longer offer incentives. Governing bodies were asking why they needed to continue to support economic development marketing and training when unemployment hovered around 3 percent. News of corporate expansions and relocations was disappearing from the front page headlines, if it got noticed at all. We all thought prosperity would continue forever.


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The children were all dressed in new clothes. They were gathered to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. Yet their faces did not look cheerful.
Thirteen-year-old Muayad al-Sahqar was not venturing further than the footstep of a house in central Gaza. “We are here sitting because of our constant fear that an Israeli air strike might rip through the street if you go outdoors,” he said. “We are so scared.”
Normally, Gaza families spend Eid al-Fitr in parks and restaurants. They mark the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, by eating and relaxing. The atmosphere should be joyful.
According to the Gaza health ministry, nearly 300 children have now lost their lives as a result of Israel’s latest assault on Gaza, which began on 7 July.
Central Gaza is home to 300,000 people. The days before Eid should be a period of bustle. Not this year. People only went shopping for essential groceries. Stores selling clothes and shoes were for the most part empty, except for their forlorn staff.
There was only one customer in a shoe store in a shopping mall in central Gaza on the eve of Eid. She was buying shoes for her son.
The new school year is scheduled to start in a few weeks, so she hoped to find a bargain. She observed that the period leading to Eid was far busier last year.
The woman was not thinking about celebrating Eid. Rather, she expressed a hope that the people of Gaza will make steps “towards freedom and dignity” after enduring so much pain in recent weeks. “The Israeli blockade must come to an end,” she added.
Khaled al-Sheikh, owner of the shop, described the lack of business as “unprecedented” for Eid. “Silence is overwhelming this mall,” he said.
Instead of visiting each other in person, many of Gaza’s 1.8 million people had to exchange Eid greetings by phone.
“Moving in the streets is highly risky,” said Abu Khalil, a man who had to flee his home after the building where it was located was hit by Israeli drones. He is now living with his parents-in-law.
Before Eid al-Fitr was over, Israel had bombed Gaza’s sole power plant. Fathi al-Sheikh Khalil, a senior figure in Gaza’s energy authority, predicted it would take a year to repair the damage caused.
“This means that the whole Gaza Strip is about to plunge into darkness,” he said, shortly after the bombing occurred.
Israel is violating the basic rights of Palestinians in Gaza. It is robbing our workers of their livelihoods, our children of their childhoods.
On Eid this year, it prevented us from observing our traditions and spending a little time with our families. There appear to be few bounds to Israel’s cruelty.
Rami Almeghari is a journalist and university lecturer based in the Gaza Strip.


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Smartphone sales are soaring, and young enterprise workers are more technologically savvy than ever. But a disconnect between worker activities and management’s readiness to manage, support and secure those activities is resulting in lost business opportunities, according new research from Unisys that was conducted by IDC.
While it’s time to modernize policies, many companies are even out of touch with the ways their employees are working. According to the report, 95 percent of the workers surveyed said that they use at least one device they purchased themselves, and are using smartphones, laptops and mobile phones at work at twice the rate reported by their employers. Despite this, 73 percent of IT executives described their enterprise networks as “very secure.”
With employees more mobile than ever, businesses need a “fundamental change in mindset,” though most “lack the policies, infrastructure or security to address this change,” Unisys reports.
The challenges faced by BlackBerry-maker Research In Motion to compete in the United States against Apple and Android-running devices underscores the issue: Consumers are purchasing and bringing to work increasing numbers of smartphones that haven’t been traditionally sanctioned by IT staff. That IT should be inflexible about the devices they support, needs some adjusting.
“[Organizations] are still largely operating in the standardized, command-and-control IT models of the past,” stated the report. “Those models are very good at managing risks and costs, but they prevent the typical organization from navigating the swift waters of breakthrough thinking and innovation being unleashed by the fourth wave of productivity.”
Those waves? Henry Ford’s assembly line, in which the corporation dictated and employees complied, was the first; the Japanese model of “Kaizen,” in which the collective is continually making small improvements is the second; and the Chinese model of productivity-“mass production, low prices and global domination,” the report offers in summary-is the third.
The fourth wave, “unlike the top-down, process-driven trends of the past … is bubbling up from the bottom,” states the report, driven by “millions-even billions-of networked people around the world who are using technology to bring new ideas and unleash powerful innovation to those organizations that are ready and willing to take advantage.”
Make that ready, willing and clued in. According to the study, 69 percent of workers reported they could access non-work-related Websites, while 44 percent of employers said it was the case. And while 37 percent of employers said workers could store personal data on company resources, 52 percent of workers said they could do exactly that.
The study also found 40 percent of workers to use instant messaging and text messaging for business purposes, and 25 percent to use blogs and professional online communities for business purposes; however, enterprises are failing to harness this savvy and know-how, with 40 percent of workers saying they don’t have access to enterprise applications on their smartphones.
Don’t turn away from this opportunity to benefit from not only workers’ competencies, but also their willingness to fund their own devices, the report advises.
“By modernizing their policies, procedures and IT systems to harness this trend, organizations have a rare chance over the next three to five years to leapfrog competitors and overturn existing business models-much as Apple and Google did with their own consumer-led IT business revolutions,” states the report.
Those that fail to do so will find themselves missing an opportunity to “avoid costs, increase their organizational productivity and flexibility, and appeal to a new generation of consumers and employees.”


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404 S Market St
With more than 21,500 units in 75 countries, Subway touts healthier, quick service fare including sandwiches and salads. Jared, an on again-off again spokesperson, dropped nearly 250 pounds thanks to a Subway diet.
by metroguide on January 30, 2013 from
Information from the business
SUBWAY Restaurant, Franchise, Business Investment Information
by cylexusa on May 20, 2014 from
Privacy & Terms


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“As you can imagine, Canada Post is constantly looking for innovative ways to provide service to the changing needs of its customers.” Losier said. The kiosks were set up without fanfare or announcement. In fact, Canada Post did not comment on the kiosks officially until a late January announcement on the firm’s Facebook page. Losier said the dispensing machines are manufactured by Wincor Nixdorf, a firm that already supplies dispensers for several European authorities, including France, Britain, and Ireland. Continue reading →
Now I really do believe that these machines add some fun to collecting. In my perfect world, of course, they would not be necessary. I would much rather see honest-to-goodness post offices staffed by real postal workers within easy reach of all Canadians. In this mythical world, these workers would all be well-versed on philatelic issues, make every effort to ensure that gentle cancels were respected and eager to offer hand-back service. Oh, and the use of a ballpoint pen to cancel a letter would be punishable by a day in the public stocks, while stamp collectors could toss rotten fruit and junk mail at the offender.


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GSC Game World, GSC World Publishing and Koch Media have today announced a worldwide publishing agreement for S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky, which will see the game released under by the games labels Deep Silver and GSC World Publishing.
“The unique atmosphere of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. caused a sensation among gamers, while the sales have demonstrated the brand’s enormous potential. We are delighted with this chance to publish the prequel together with GSC under the Deep Silver label,” said Craig McNicol, Managing Director of Koch Media.
S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky is set one year prior to events of the first game, with a group of stalkers having reached the heart of the Zone-Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. The game is powered by a new version of the game engine, X-Ray 1.5, offering players improved visuals and non-scripted AI combat.
Last week Valve announced it had secured the exclusive digital download rights for the game, with the download to be available simultaneously alongside the retail release.
S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky is scheduled for release for the PC platform later this year.


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The streaming war is gaining momentum, with Disney+ announcing its first international launch dates and Apple TV bumping up its spending.
Meanwhile, YouTube reveals its ambitious plans to commemorate the fall of the Berlin Wall, and there’s an insight into what it’s like programming for the Prince Charles Cinema. Read all about it below.
Disney+ has announced its first international launch dates, Screen reports.
Meanwhile, Apple TV has upped its spending as the streaming war intensifies. (The Verge)
YouTube will be celebrating the fall of the Berlin Wall with an ambitious VR project. (Broadcast)
Meanwhile, 30 years from its release, The Guardian looks at how sex, lies and videotape transformed Indie cinema.
Craig Zobel, director of The Hunt, shares his thoughts on the film’s cancellation following the latest spate of gun violence and conservative backlash in the US. (Variety)
Meanwhile, 20 years after the Museum of the Moving Image closed, Peter Domankiewicz argues that not enough is being done to celebrate and preserve British film history. (Guardian)
Are you a member with an opinion on one of these stories? Is there an issue affecting directors that you think isn’t getting enough attention in the media? Why not write for us and make yourself heard — email [email protected] with your article idea.


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Is Texting Becoming Extinct?
If you do not own a smart phone or have no alternative communication to texting, there is no immediate need to fear just yet. Texting is likely not going anywhere fast, despite the billions of dollars phone companies missed out on last year.
It has been reported that phone companies missed out on a tremendous amount in text message revenues adding up to $13.9 billion just last year. Tech-savvy consumers are now using alternative, free communication options such as Blackberry Messenger and Facebook Mobile Messenger applications. Some are predicting a huge loss unless phone companies take action and create something before they lose out all together.
Of course, nothing drastic is going to happen overnight. About 75% of all the cell phone users in the world still use good, old-fashioned text messaging. And before you start to worry that your phone provider is going to go out of business because of the money loss, take into consideration all the money brought in because of the fees customers pay due to going over their plan limits. These fees more than make up for the revenue loss.
Do you think you will ever cancel your text message plan? Are you already following the trend of using alternatives to text messaging?
To read the full article on Mashable click here.


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- Subscribe NowLimited Time Offer
A close game will help Super Bowl advertisers
A new study by Oregon State University and the University of Oregon says ads during sports telecasts are viewed more intently and favorably during close games than blowouts.
“Games with high excitement levels result in a transfer of that emotion to the ads – particularly to ads shown at the end of the game that also have a lot of energy and excitement built in,” said Colleen Bee, an Oregon State marketing expert and author of the study. “We expected the outcome of a game to affect a viewer’s attitude toward the brand and the ad itself, but we found that whether the favored team won or lost had no real impact.
The study was based on the reactions of 112 persons who watched college basketball games in a lab setting.
“It was all about the excitement and intensity of the game,” Bee said.
“The most important influence we found was the level of suspense, both for the game and the advertisement,” she said. “An ad with more zip and high energy paired with a close game resulted in increased favorable responses toward the ad and brand.”
National ads for this year’s big game cost roughly $3.5 million for 30 seconds. Advertisers are trying to garner attention for their brands online before the game. Go Daddy’s ad features Nascar driver Danica Patrick and fitness guru Jillian Michaels in somewhat racy ads promoting the web domain firm.
Mike Sunnucks writes about residential and commercial real estate, government, law, sports business and workplace issues.
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Adults 21 years of age or older can possess up to 2.5 ounces of a combination of marijuana, marijuana concentrate and marijuana products, including no more than 5 grams of marijuana concentrate. Non-traditional marks, such as holograms, scents, tastes and textures, will be allowed https://mymarijuanagarden.com/: to be registered in association with cannabis https://howtoonline.org/community/profile/zelmaagosto136/, goods and services in late 2019. This presents a timely opportunity for those involved in the cannabis industry, since scent and taste are often the primary distinguishing features of cannabis pardon canada products. Businesses entering the cannabis industry may want to position their products in the marketplace to seize this opportunity to establish a unique brand. Cathie Wood's ARK Invest group of exchange-traded funds lost substantial value in 2021, but it's not hard to see why. The famed stock investor's funds are heavily invested in growth stocks, and there has been a steady flight of money out of high-flying growth stocks into value stocks in recent months. Cathie Wood, however, remains unperturbed and continues to buy shares in disruptive companies.
cannabis nb near me
The website claims cannabis has long been shrouded in mystery and misinformation and it8217s time to have conversations about it. A federal licence is required to cultivate, process and sell cannabis for medical or non-medical purposes. https://kckoi.com/community/profile/madgecroft63276/, Visit Service standards: Fiscal year 2020 to 2021 for border wait https://mammecovid.com/community/profile/yukikomcdaniels, times for: Located just minutes from Philadelphia, Rutgers University–Camden delivers groundbreaking work that impacts the world while offering its students truly experiential education in an intimate, supportive environment. Bryan Mills / CC However, since then, Cannabis NB has started to turn a profit, reporting a profit of $1.4 million during the first quarter of the current fiscal year. Combine that with the numbers reported on Thursday and Cannabis NB has made a net profit of $4.6 million in this fiscal year.
cannabis pardon canada
FollowArchive About 250,000 Canadians are thought to have prohibition-era records for simple possession of marijuana, though because some people were charged under a generic drug possession offence rather than one specific to cannabis, it’s not clear how many there are. https://mybees.co.uk/community/profile/kiaraflynn26376/, Also, those who have a record for other offences aren8217t eligible http://gavraracing.altervista.org/community/profile/darrylstokes69/ for the program. The public is reminded that the legalization of cannabis is accompanied by the following measures: Public Prosecution Service of Canada Deskbook According to Justice Canada, more than half of all drug offences reported by police are cannabis related. In 2013, approximately 23,000 people were convicted for cannabis related charges. While charges and sentences may vary, all convictions result in a criminal record. Unfortunately, a criminal record can have drastic, lifelong consequences. It can affect your ability to get a job and to travel. This is especially true if travelling to the United-States. They require you to have a waiver if a criminal record is associated to your name.


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Are you prepared for Black Friday? A new survey released by BFAds.net, a site that lists Black Friday deals in real-time, shows that 51.7% of shoppers said they research Black Friday sales online before they happen; about 36% said they still enjoy perusing the newspaper ad inserts before Black Friday and only 1.3% use their mobile devices for research.
"Brick-and-mortar stores are already well aware that the common shopper is now more informed than ever," Michael Brim, founder of BFAds.net, tells Mashable. "Shoppers are doing their research prior to going to the stores in order to maximize their dollar and spend wisely. To counter this, stores are staggering their sales into 'waves' or 'events' which inevitably add more noise and confusion to Black Friday sales that have never necessarily been exactly straight-forward."
The survey also shows that 15.7% of people would shop on Thanksgiving if there are deals to be found. While 35.5% said they prefer to shop the sales before Black Friday, the majority, 48.8%, said they'll shop on Black Friday. Whether anyone would sacrifice their Thanksgiving feast in order to shop remains to be seen (they can always eat while shopping online) but the dedication of shoppers during the upcoming mega-shopping weekend is evident.
"People care about getting the best deal for a variety of reasons," he said. "Economy is not great, money is tight, people want the most bang for their buck and realize that Black Friday is a very good day to achieve that. There's also a sense of pride and satisfaction in knowing that one got a good deal."
If a store posts its Black Friday sale earlier, a whopping 88.5% of respondents said they'd be more likely to shop there.
To stay on top of Black Friday deals, BFAds will continuously update the site through the weekend with new sales information and list Black Friday deals. The site's Online Black Friday Deals Tracker lists all Black Friday items currently available online for their advertised Black Friday price — regardless of whether the store has officially launched their online Black Friday sale.
"To get the best deals in-store, there are no real shortcuts. Most stores have moved to the voucher system for the big door-busters, so the only true way to guarantee yourself one is to commit early and wait in-line for hours to ensure you're one of the first few people in line," Brim added.
What's your strategy to nab the best Black Friday deals? Tell us in the comments.


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W, the most trusted Indian women’s wear brand, announced the launch of its first store at Mumbai’s T2 airport. Following the opening of this store, the brand now has over 155 stores in various cities and aims at expanding its retail foot print further to cater to the needs of its customers.
Spread across area of 440 sq ft, the store offers a complete range of fashion wardrobe making available the best of Indian silhouettes and style under one roof catering to the need of travelers. It exhibits the vibrant spring summer collection, artistically blended with distinctive modern and Indian prints.
Providing great shopping experience with superior merchandise and service has always been W’s priority. With elegant interiors, every W store is fashionable and individualistic bringing forth the strong Indian aesthetics which the brand stands for. The store design exudes the contemporary aspect of the brand bringing together the most fashionable merchandise for its customers.
Commenting on the store launch and expansion, Mr. Anant Daga – CEO, W, TCNS Clothing Company said, “We are delighted to announce the launch of the brand’s first airport store in Mumbai. Providing great shopping experience with superior merchandise and service has always been our priority. With our aggressive expansion plans in tier I and tier II cities, along with the overwhelming response across the nation, the launch of this store is inevitable for us. We will continue to expand aggressively and cater to the needs of more and more women.”


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The Federal Aviation Administration is contemplating on whether or not to ban Samsung devices from getting onto flights. This is after Samsung recalled 2.5 million the Galaxy Note 7 devices after 35 were reported to have blown-up simultaneously.
However much this decision has not been made, this will definitely be or dangerous business repercussions added onto effects being felt after news that the devices were catching fire due to manufacturing faults.
According to the FAA spokesperson, “If device recalled by the manufacturer, airline crew and passengers will not be able to bring recalled batteries or electronics that contain recalled batteries in the cabin of an aircraft, or in carry-on and checked baggage.”
Lack of immediacy of the measure by FAA has been blamed on Samsung for not following the proper way to institute a recall is to get the US Consumer Product Safety Commission involved from the beginning.
The device manufacturer was forced to suspend sales just weeks after launching in a statement. “Because our customers’ safety is an absolute priority at Samsung, we have stopped sales of the Galaxy Note”
Samsung has sold about 1 million devices globally but called back 2.5 million a number the company says had manufactured and released into the market.
The latest Samsung Galaxy Note 7 spontaneously exploded in a man’s hotel room racking up more than $1,383 worth of damages. “My brand new Note7 exploded this morning while I was still asleep, it was plugged in and charging,” he said. “Phone completely fried, I can’t eject the SIM tray to retrieve my SIM or the SD card. I was using original charger and cable if you are wondering” said the man on Reddit, under the alias Crushader.
According to estimates by Bloomberg, the global recall of the 5.7-inch screen phone could cost Samsung up to $1 billion (£750,000). The recall is bad timing for Samsung as Apple is expected to launch its iPhone 7 at tonight’s keynote conference in San Francisco.
This also comes at a time LG released LG V20 the successor to the V10 and the first device to launch with Android Nougat, the latest version of the Android OS.
In late 2015, the FAA banned the self-balancing scooters famously known as hoverboards that became infamous for containing batteries that would overheat and literally burst into flames. The hoverboards were restricted from flights.


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The leaks continue for Samsung’s upcoming smartphone, the Galaxy Z Fold 4. This time, notable Android Twitter tipster Ice universe has revealed that the phone’s screen is slated to have a less prominent crease.
According to the leaker, the crease will still be there to some extent when the phone is unfolded, but should be smoother than it was on previous iterations, finally fixing an issue which has been plaguing Samsung's Fold lineup since its first iteration, the Samsung Galaxy Fold.
A consistent problem
Samsung's original Galaxy Fold launched with a plastic cover protecting its main screen, which had a very prominent crease. This would lead to an annoying glare, regardless of whether you were using the phone inside or outside. Samsung has been working on fixing this design flaw but has yet to fully overcome it.
The Galaxy Z Fold3, for example, got rid of the plastic covering and replaced it with Samsung’s own Ultra-Thin Glass. The hinge was also improved upon as it was made to be more durable than before. Despite the improvements, the crease is still there, if not as noticeable.
It’s not like this issue is impossible to solve, either. Chinese tech company Oppo launched a foldable phone in China that significantly reduced the amount of visible crease. And if you go back a little further, you’ll find Motorola’s 2019 Razr phone accomplished the same task thanks to a clever hinge design.
A year of leaks
We've already seen a steady flow of Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4-related leaks throughout 2022, and things are ramping up as we get closer to its expected launch date.
We've put together a curated list of all of the leaks that have occurred this past year, which describe a foldable device with a 7.56-inch main screen and a 6.19-inch cover screen. The phone may also sport the same 10MP optical zoom camera found on the Samsung Galaxy S22.
Hopefully, Samsung can figure out the creasing problem in time for the device's official launch, so we no longer have to deal with an annoying line down the middle.
Judging by previous release dates, the Galaxy Z Fold 4 is expected to arrive sometime during late summer 2022. That said, there’s still time for changes to be made and then subsequently leaked, so stay tuned for more updates as they occur.
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Cesar Cadenas has been writing about the tech industry for several years now specializing in consumer electronics, entertainment devices, Windows, and the gaming industry. But he’s also passionate about smartphones, GPUs, and cybersecurity.


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WHERE TO WATCH
Disney Wants to Acquire a Bigger Piece of Hulu
February 28, 2019
Updated 1mo ago
Disney is reportedly in talks to acquire an additional 10 percent stake in Hulu. Michelle Castillo, senior reporter for Cheddar, weighs in on what this could mean for the media industry.
The Startup That's Eliminating Single-Use Cleaning Products
Apr 25, 2019
Fortnite Welcomes The Avengers; Comcast Mulls Hulu Sale to Disney
Cheddar's Michelle Castillo discusses CNBC's report that Comcast is weighing the idea of selling its Hulu stock to Disney. Plus, Avengers: Endgame predicted to make box office history opening weekend.
Apr 16, 2019
AT&T Sells Stake In Hulu Back To Streaming Service For $1.43 Billion
AT&T announced it will sell back its stake in Hulu, to Hulu, for $1.43 billion. That brings the company's valuation to $15 billion, a sharp increase from November, when Disney valued it at $9.26 billion. Steelhouse CEO, Mark Douglas, joined Cheddar to discuss.
Apr 25, 2019
New Study Shows Netflix Could Lose Subscribers to Disney+
Jon Klein, president of Vilynx and former president of CNN, weighs in on whether or not Disney+ will be a Netflix killer, and the importance of data and A.I. when it comes to the streaming wars.


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|▲ Dongil Pra Tech / CEO Jihyun Kim|
Eco-friendly is one of the most frequently used ingredients on the media today. Catching the momentum, companies pour products marked with this commonly convincing term on their package from food to daily necessities. Governments are introducing tougher regulations on pollutant substances including cars and disposable products and the Korean Environment Ministry recently announced a mid and long term roadmap that bans use of paper cups in cafes and restaurants from 2021 and plastic straws from 2022. A turtle with bleeding nose from a plastic straw shocked the world and it was a wakeup call for all human beings on earth to make actions to stop this cruelty. So it is only encouraging that a Korean company Dongil Pra Tech has released 100% naturally disposable straw ‘Diang’.
“Straw touches our lips first.
We value hygiene
As much as eco-friendliness”
Says CEO Jihyun Kim. Diang is made and managed under the FSSC 22000 standard issued by GFSI (Global Food Safety Institute) that is being recognized as a global food market guideline as shown in big food brands such as Nestle, PepsiCo and Danone. The FSSC 2200 records all the process of a product from warehousing to releasing with which Dongil Pra Tech makes a difference from its rivals. The company also obtained certificates for risk assessment, technology assessment and clean work place in 2016 followed by ISO 22000, ISO 9001 and US FDA. Currently, Diang is used at a number of globally known companies including Korean Air, KFC, McDonald’s, Pizza Hut and Burger King from which the company has seen a yearly 50% sales growth.
“Diang is proved better than paper straw.
It is 100% biodegradable
Within 180 days!”
In order for Diang to be 100% biodegraded, the straw is made of PLA (Poly Lactic Acid extracted from corn starch) and PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate-co-terephthalate: biodegradable high molecules). It has no harmful substances such as endocrine disrupter and heavy metal and can be used for compost after the biodegrade. PLA in particular is being used for tableware for infants for its high safety. Diang feels near PP (Polypropylene) straw, the plastic straw commonly and widely used throughout the world at the moment, except the fact that it is 100% biodegradable. Thanks to this excellence, Diang drew a considerable amount of attention especially from industry in need at the Seoul Café Show 2019 held last month at COEX. Also July this year, the Environment Ministry approved Diang as eco-friendly straw and issued EL724, the environment-friendly mark.
“It is not whether we use disposables
How we use it!”
Dongil Pra Tech recently has relocated the head office and the factory to Jeokseong-myeon in Paju, an environmentally perfect place for manufacturing eco-friendly products. The each of 13 extruders in the factory manufactures average 800,000 biodegradable straws a day that will be used in all over the world.
“It is my goal to grow Diang as the most demanded eco-friendly straw in the world!”
신태섭 기자 firstname.lastname@example.org


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IIT Roorkee organized KHOJ 2017 for Uttarakhand
Roorkee: Technology Innovation and Development Entrepreneurship support (TIDES), the startup incubator at Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee in collaboration with Z Nation Lab, a Mumbai and Silicon Valley-based accelerator organized KHOJ 2017 Uttarakhand on 11th October 2017 at IIT Roorkee campus. KHOJ 2017 is a nation-wide start up competition in search of the next big idea from tailor-made entrepreneurs, educational institutes, government investors, corporates and business professionals.
The event was kicked off by Prof. Ajit Chaturvedi, Director, IIT Roorkee with a motivational keynote on the need for developing the startup ecosystem in UK region and the significant role of TIDES in order to support the startups within Uttarakhand and nearby region, followed by a panel discussion, fireside chat and extensive interactive discussions between participants and experts from the industry and academia including Prof. M Parida, Dean(R&D) and Prof. Manish Shrikhande, IIT Roorkee.
A total of 45 teams participated from the region including IIT Roorkee, UPES, DIT, Graphic Era, Thapar University, IIT Mandi and Delhi NCR. From these, 11 selected teams pitched their startup ideas in front of the experts from Z Nation Lab and TIDES Incubator, along with industrialist and Angel investors from the local ecosystem like Jumpstart.
Mr. Nilesh Jain – Venture partner at Z Nation Lab, Dr. Sanjeev Manhas – Faculty In -charge at TIDES, and Mr. Harshit Malik – Founder Jumpstart Co-working space, Angel Investor graced, Prof Jha Corporate Relations UPES also graced the event.
Speaking about the event, Dr Sanjeev Manhas, Faculty-in-Charge, TIDES Incubator IIT Roorkee said, “It is a unique opportunity for budding entrepreneurs, a one of its kind event in Uttarakhand, where ecosystems of IIT Roorkee and Z Nation Lab have come together to support entrepreneurs in the region ”
Mr. Devanshu Mishra, founder of AEVA secured first place with his startup on an IoT based home automation system. The startups Zoyo and LifePage shared second position. All three winners will attend an acceleration program by “Z Nation Lab” in Mumbai for further support including mentoring, expert interaction, networking and pitching for angel investment on demo-day.
Ms. Neha Jain, Co-founder and Director at Z Nation Lab, said, “KHOJ is a nationwide initiative by Z Nation Lab to develop and revolutionize the start-up ecosystem in India.”
Mr. Vikas Garg, Chairman CII Uttarakhand in his keynote speech on startups ecosystem said, “Even today I dream with my eyes open, Entrepreneurs need to be a dreamer to become a Unicorn.”
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.


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LONDON, United Kingdom — While results announcements continued to underscore the impact of Covid-19 on the first six months of 2020, comments on current trading were upbeat, helping the Savigny Luxury Index recover some lost ground. Tiffany announced that sales during August 2020 were slightly above August last year; Brunello Cucinelli returned to sales growth in the second half of 2020, anticipating an EBITDA margin of around 13 to 14 percent. Estée Lauder’s fourth-quarter sales (to June 2020) decreased by 32 percent, but the beauty group’s sales decline for the full year was only 4 percent. Early recovery in Mainland China as well as a substantial uptick in e-commerce business have been instrumental in kick-starting the recovery of the sector, as evidenced last month.
Fashion shows and trade fairs are making a cautious comeback. Louis Vuitton hosted its Spring/Summer 2021 menswear show (outdoors) in Shanghai to a predominantly local audience of VIPs and journalists, and is planning to take the show on tour to other Asian locations. London Fashion Week in September will consist of a mixture of physical & digital shows. Geneva hosted its first set of “Geneva Watch Days,” a pared-down watch fair with exhibitors spread over a number of the city’s luxury hotels.
The luxury industry is venturing further down the road of sustainability and ethics: Prada announced it will no longer be using kangaroo skin, and Valentino followed with a ban on alpaca wool. Tiffany will expand the scope of traceability of its individually registered diamonds by sharing the full craftsmanship journey, not just the provenance of the raw diamond. Virgil Abloh’s latest menswear collection for Louis Vuitton consisted principally of new looks made using recycled material as well as a selection of looks from previous collections; only 2 out of the 52 looks were made with new materials. Ralph Lauren invested in Natural Fiber Welding, a sustainable material science start-up that has developed a process for upcycling natural fibres such as cotton waste into performance materials.
Corporate activity remained subdued in August, with only one other acquisition to report: Italian investment company Italmobiliare increased its stake in iconic apothecary brand Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella from 20 percent to 60 percent, investing a reported €120 million.
The Savigny Luxury Index (“SLI”) gained just over 7 percent in August, outperforming the MSCI by 150 basis points, although not enough to close the gap caused by July’s drop.
SLI versus MSCI
- Burberry’s share price increased by over 15 percent this month as the company quashed rumours of Riccardo Tisci’s departure.
- Capri Holdings’ better-than-feared first-quarter loss prompted a recovery in the stock, which gained just over 13 percent in August.
- Safilo’s double-digit decline in quarterly sales, posted at the end of July, caused the share price to continue its descent in August, losing close to 7 percent of its value.
What to watch
Despite their rhetoric of better days ahead, luxury goods companies are still cautious with their cash. Estée Lauder said it would cut 1,500 to 2,000 jobs globally and close 10 percent to 15 percent of its freestanding stores — partly in response to a significant shift of business from bricks-and-mortar to online, some of which the beauty group believes may stick.
In an effort to retain an extra liquidity buffer, Richemont halved its dividend and is proposing a shareholder loyalty scheme, where it will issue warrants to investors which can be converted into newly created stock at a later date. Corporate activity has also ground to a halt. However, every crisis brings opportunities, and there is plenty of money keen to invest in the sector. We expect deal-making activity to resume in the last quarter of the year.
Pierre Mallevays is the founder and managing partner of Savigny Partners LLP, a mergers & acquisitions advisory firm focusing on luxury brands and retail.


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Virtual ads gain traction in NHL
Virtual sign technology is still relatively new in the NHL, but teams have seen demand for its unique ad placement as more potential sponsors see it on television.
The Flyers, Blackhawks, Blue Jackets, Capitals and Rangers are using the technology now, selling space on the glass behind the two goals and, in New York, an additional spot between the team benches at Madison Square Garden.
The Blackhawks, in their second season using the technology, have virtual sign deals with Chevrolet, Harris Bank, MB Financial Bank, the Illinois Lottery, Robert Morris College and Toyota. Those deals are valued in the mid-six figures, and each sponsor owns one goal per period, said Dave Knickerbocker, the team’s senior executive director of marketing and business development. The brands take turns sharing exposure for overtime games.
“We sold out of our dasherboards for the second year in a row and there was demand for TV-visible signage,” Knickerbocker said. “The response has been strong [from advertisers] for the amount of time it’s on television. There is a lot of action behind the goals. We are sold out for virtual ads too and are compiling a list of people who have expressed interest.”
The Flyers are in their first year of using virtual ads and expect to generate “a little north of a half-million” in revenue by season’s end, said Joe Croce, senior vice president of sales for Comcast SportsNet. The team charges $3,500 a game in deals with Comcast Business Class digital communications, Geico, Immaculata University, McDonald’s, Powerball, Toyota, Verizon, Virtua Health System, Wawa convenience stores, Wells Fargo and Xfinity.
The Flyers pay $2,700 a game in production costs to Sportvision, the tech firm that the NHL uses to operate the virtual sign system. Philly carves its inventory into shorter increments of time where each brand gets a few minutes of exposure during each period. Some deals are tied to 10-game packages; others, such as McDonald’s and Toyota, run the entire season.
Comparing revenue vs. expenses, signing a virtual sign deal with just one company “puts you in the green a little,” Croce said. “For the playoffs, we can increase our rates because the TV ratings quadruple.”
For the second half of the NHL season, the Flyers are putting game statistics and public service announcements on the same glass spaces behind the nets where ads are placed, Croce said. Now that fans watching the games on television are accustomed to seeing the virtual ads, the noncommercial messages should catch their eye, he said.
The Blue Jackets, in their first season using virtual ads, picked up two new sponsors, Chrysler Jeep Dodge and Safelight Auto Glass, as a result of the technology, said Cameron Scholvin, the team’s senior vice president of corporate development.


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Every smartphone maker is launching its own power banks these days. OnePlus is the latest to join the group with the launch of its massive 10,000 mAh power bank at Rs. 1,399 in India. Recently, Huawei also launched its 13,000 mAh Honor AP007 power bank in India. Xiaomi has also launched its affordable range of power banks in India.
In March, OnePlus launched its 10,000 mAh power bank in the US. The company had also promised an India launch soon and released a statement saying, “As for our fans in Europe and India, you won’t have to wait long, either. We are ironing out the logistics process for a smoother shipping experience.”
It seems OnePlus has successfully kept up its promise by timely launching this power bank on Amazon.in and it will be available in Silk white and Sandstone black.
“To compliment your existing devices and to help you stave away from the ‘charge your device’ every so often blues, we offer you the “OnePlus Power Bank” where portability, affordability and capacity will be your key features for buying this wonderful accessory,” the company wrote on official blog.
The portable power bank comes with two USB ports rated to deliver charge at 5V-2A and ability to charge two devices at any time. It also comes with overcharging and overheating protection along with battery level LED indicator for added convenience. This power bank can fully charge company’s flagship OnePlus One thrice completely. The 10,000 mAh power bank is backed with one year of manufacturer warranty.


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MINNEAPOLIS, Feb. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) today reported that its net retail sales for the four weeks ended Feb. 26, 2000 increased 8.7 percent to $2.194 billion from $2.019 billion a year ago. Comparable-store sales increased 3.8 percent from the same period a year ago. "Sales for the corporation were essentially on plan in February," said Bob Ulrich, chairman and chief executive officer of Target Corporation.
Sales Total Sales Stores
(millions) % Change % Change
Target $1,744 11.7 5.4
Mervyn's 245 0.7 1.0
Department Stores 184 (4.2) (5.1)
Other 21 (6.1) na
Total $2,194 8.7 3.8
Target Corporation today also issued its fourth-quarter and fiscal 1999 earnings results in a separate news release.
Target Corporation operates large-store general merchandise formats, including discount stores, moderate-priced promotional and traditional department stores. The company currently operates 1,238 stores in 44 states. This includes 907 Target stores, 267 Mervyn's stores and 64 Department Stores.
Target Corporation news releases are available through Company News on Call by fax at 800-758-5804 extension 342677 or at http://www.targetcorp.com or http://www.prnewswire.com
SOURCE Target Corporation
CONTACT: Media, Susan Eich, 612-304-0700; Investors, Susan Kahn, 612-370-6735, both of Target Corporation/


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Build a Rocket Boy, a game that is scotland-headquartered company founded by one of the former lead developers behind the Grand Theft Auto franchise, today announced it has raised $110 million in a Series D round of funding.
The funding comes ahead of the much-anticipated launch of the company’s first titles and immersive world that is open.
Leslie Benzies could very well be better called the previous president of Rockstar North, operating growth of its smash hit Grand Theft Auto series beginning the instalment that is third 2001, through each subsequent title until departing the company in 2016 following a 17-month sabbatical. That year that is same Benzies initiated legal action against their previous manager, arguing which he had efficiently already been kicked on and denied a share associated with game’s earnings. A portion that is substantial of complaints were thrown out in court two years later, with the parties finally reaching a confidential settlement in 2019.
Throughout much of this, Benzies was laying the foundation for his next project that is big
Initially known as Royal Circus Games (known as after a address that is prestigious the company’s home city, Edinburgh), lawyers representing Rockstar parent company Take-Two Interactive argued that the “RCG” acronym was strikingly similar to Rockstar Games (RSG), and was deliberately designed to confuse. Whether its name-change was a result that is direct of accusation is not obvious, but Royal Circus Games morphed into Build a Rocket Boy in 2018 and continued to raise at least $40 million in money to build up and commercialize a suite of the latest brands.
While these have actually however to begin to see the formal light of time, the business has actually teased a brand new immersive world that is open called Everywhere, pitched as “community-driven gaming” where players can build their own world — in what could perhaps be construed as something akin to Roblox. And then there is MindsEye, touted as a action that is“story-driven.”
Both brands tend to be slated for launch “in the future that is near” while the company is also introducing a suite of user-generated content (UGC) design tools it calls Arcadia.
“I started Build A Rocket Boy so I love with players and give them a place to create and share,” Benzies said in a
that I could continue to share the stories. “We have confidence in the next where online game creation is invest the fingers associated with people, and we’ll enable these with the various tools to greatly help form this vision with us.”RedBird Capital PartnersBuild a Rocket Boy’s Series D round ended up being led by brand new investment that is york-based
, with participation from NetEase Games, Galaxy Interactive, Endeavor, Alignment Growth, Woodline Partners, GTAM Partners, among others.
Aside from its headquarters in Edinburgh, Build a Rocket Boy has opened development that is additional in Budapest (Hungary) and Montpellier (France).(*)


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Mondelez is upping the ante in the coffee-pod market by launching a range of capsules that are compatible with Nestlé’s market-leading Nespresso machines.
The new capsules will be stamped with Mondelez’s Jacobs and Carte Noire brands and will launch initially in Austria, France, Germany and Switzerland in the second half of this year.
In addition, Mondelez says it will continue to supports its Tassimo coffee pod system with extra investment as it aims to make it a “billion-dollar brand” - and in the process, “cement” its position as the world’s second-biggest coffee company.
“Our new range of compatible capsules represents increased competition in the fast-growing single-serve coffee sector and is a significant commercial opportunity for Mondelez International,” said the company’s global vice president, strategy, marketing and innovation (Coffee), Roland Weening.
“We will continue to give consumers great-tasting and sustainably sourced products across Europe at a price that is competitive. Jacobs and Carte Noire are among Europe’s favourite coffees and our capsules will provide consumers with the freedom to prepare the coffee they love in the manner they like.”
Copycat coffee pods
Mondelez is not the first company to produce capsules that can be used in Nespresso machines: in April, British firm Dualit won a high-court battle to continue selling its Nepresso-compatible Dualit NX pods.
Euromonitor senior analyst Lorenza Della-Santa said Mondelez’s move was significant because it was the first time a large player had come out with Nespresso-compatible pods. “Long-term Nestlé has the capacity marketing-wise to re-innovate and come up with something that might insulate it,” she said.
“Long-term Nestlé has the capacity marketing-wise to re-innovate and come up with something that might insulate it”
Lorenza Della-Santa, Euromonitor
Nestlé’s strong presence in espresso-drinking markets should help keep competition at bay, she said. “The coffee is good; if it wasn’t, it wouldn’t sell in markets like Italy. The threat would be in new markets where they aren’t present,” Della-Santa added, pointing to Nestlé’s failure to gain a significant toehold in the US.
In March, Nespresso UK and Ireland’s MD, Brema Drohan, shrugged off concerns about copycat pods. “Competition is nothing new for Nespresso. In fact, we thrive in the face of fair competition,” she told The Grocer.
“We will continue to build our success on creating the highest quality coffee, innovative machines and exemplary service.”
The UK coffee-pod market was worth £56.1m in the year to February 2013, up 45.1% year on year, according to Kantar Worldpanel.


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A SERIES of unfortunate events allegedly led a man to steal groceries from Asda, Boston Magistrates’ Court was told last week.
Rogerio Bulla had lost his job and was waiting for benefits to come through when he was caught stealing £97.54 worth of items from the supermarket on June 16, said Phillipa Chatterton, defending.
She said he had been keen to pay back court fines from a previous offence and any money he gained had gone towards that, leaving himself short for food and living expenses.
The 34-year-old Italian national, who lives in Wormgate, Boston, pleaded guilty to theft from a shop when he stood before the court on Wednesday.
He also accepted that in taking the items he had breached a conditional discharge given to him just weeks before this offence.
Jim Clare, prosecuting, said Bulla was seen by security staff taking items to the self-service tills and scanning only some of them before leaving.
According to Miss Chatterton, he stacked items on top of one another to avoid putting them through the till and paying as he could not afford them.
Miss Chatterton added: “It’s an unfortunate series of circumstances and he is not proud to have committed this offence.”
Magistrates fined him £40 for breaching the discharge and a further £70 for the new offence. He also has to pay a £15 victim surcharge and £45 costs.
His previous offence was not revealed.


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ODOP: Local crafts from Uttar Pradesh to be showcased at Dubai 2020 exhibition: Navneet Sehgal
Uttar Pradesh’s One District One Product (ODOP) items that have conquered national and international markets have proven to be an important tool in generating self-employment and contributing to the economy of the MSME sector in the state.
Now the UP government is planning to launch these products in the international market. “We are now planning to participate in Dubai-2020. It will be a big pavilion for ODOP to show our traditional handicrafts, ODOP products in the overseas market. Thus, these efforts are being made not only to improve their visibility, but also their commercialization in foreign markets, ”said Navneet Sehgal, Additional Chief Information Secretary.
Speaking about ODOP’s unique program, Sehgal said that the fundamental goal of the One District One Product program is to encourage local crafts and local artisans and to do two things – one is to revive the local crafts and then improve the chances of the livelihoods and employment of all groups involved in these trades.
Elaborating on the program, ACS said Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in 2018 announced the program and encouraged local cluster-based crafts.
“In the world, it is a known phenomenon, but to improve the industry, in particular the micro and the small industry, the best way is to create clusters, then to work on these clusters, to create infrastructures, to create both soft and physical infrastructure, improve their productivity, improve their quality, improve their packaging, improve their market value, thus improve their livelihoods and improve employment opportunities, ”said Navneet Sehgal.
Each year, the department trains nearly 20,000 craftsmen in the 75 municipalities in their existing trade, existing craftsmanship so that they can learn about the latest technologies and the latest production techniques. In addition, they are provided with a toolkit.
“We have signed memoranda of understanding, agreements with national and international organizations to provide support, as we have signed an agreement with the Indian Quality Council to help them and help them improve their quality. Then we signed an agreement with the Indian Institute of Packaging to help them improve their packaging, ”he explained.
To alleviate the difficulties these artisans have in selling their products, the department has signed memoranda of understanding with Amazon and Flipkart to help them market their products. “We have also created our electronic marketplace, ODOP e-Mart, where these artisans are integrated to sell their products through the e-commerce portal,” he added.
A sufficient budget has been provided by the government for the program. The government’s focus on ODOP has helped the state improve its exports as most of the handicrafts are exported overseas and exports have increased by almost 30% in the past 3 years.
Read all the latest news, breaking news and coronavirus news here


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The Media Bureau Sept. 28 extended the filing deadline for comments and reply comments on the commission's Media Ownership Studies. The new comment deadline is Oct. 22, and reply comments are now due Nov. 1.
As part of its quadrennial review of media ownership rules, the commission released 10 research studies done to inform decisions in the review. With their release July 31, the commission sought comments on each from interested parties. Before granting the extension, the deadlines for comments and reply comments were Oct. 1 and Oct. 16, respectively.
On Sept. 11, 2007, Free Press, Consumer Federation of America and Consumer Union filed a joint request for an extension of time to file comments on the studies.
For more information, visit: www.fcc.gov.
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Residents of Bundanoon, in the New South Wales Southern Highlands, voted to ban the sale of bottled water in their town, making it the world’s first bottled water-free town. The bottled water ban was organised by a local businessman, Huw Kingston. In a meeting at the Bundanoon Memorial Hall that attracted nearly 400 people, only two did not support the ban.
Plastic bottles are mostly made from a petroleum product known as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and they require huge amounts of fossil fuels to both make and transport them. Studies have also shown that chemicals leached from the plastic can accumulate in the human body.
The waste problem created by the bottles is considerable, as most are not recycled. They end up in landfill or in oceans, where they leach dangerous chemicals and take around a thousand years to decompose. At the time of the ban, bottled water was one of the fastest-growing sectors of the beverage market in Australia.
The main concern of the advocates for Bundanoon’s voluntary plastic bottle ban was the carbon footprint associated with bottling and transporting the water. The council agreed to install additional water fountains in the village, to make drinking water available to the public.
Bottled water bans have been instituted in other areas around the world, notably on university campuses. However, a study published in the American Journal of Public Health suggested that banning bottled water sales did not produce the expected environmental benefits, at least in a university setting. The study indicated that plastic waste actually increased, as students switched their drinking habits to unhealthy, plastic-bottled soft drinks. It’s not clear whether the study was funded by the industry.
The idea of a bottled water ban didn’t catch on elsewhere in Australia. In 2021, a UN report revealed that Australians were spending about $580 per capita per year on bottled water – around 504 litres each. This was the second-highest consumption in the world, exceeded only by Singapore. This was despite bottled water being more expensive here than anywhere else.


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MathStar faces delisting
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MathStar Inc. may be delisted from Nasdaq.
Hillsboro-based MathStar (NASDAQ: MATH), a fabless semiconductor company that lost $4.8 million in the first quarter of this year, said it was advised by the Nasdaq Listing Qualifications Department that it is reviewing the company's eligibility for continued listing because MathStar does not comply with the minimum $10 million stockholders' equity requirement.
Nasdaq asked the company to provide by May 31 a plan and time frame to achieve and sustain compliance with all Nasdaq Global Market listing requirements, including the minimum stockholders' equity standard.
MathStar is trying to sell $25 million of its common stock. The company has said it only has enough money to remain a viable company until Labor Day.
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Alleged image of Google’s upcoming Nexus 9 slate has apparently popped up in the wild and after months of rumors and leaks, now witnessing the first leaked images of what may be called, the HTC Nexus 9. Now, following certification for the device from the US FCC authority, it appears that it is one step closer to official release.
Speaking about the FCC that lists a tablet numbered 0P82100 – points to that model number that the HTC-made device sports. Configurations include both the 16GB and 32GB variants of the unannounced tablet, with the usual array of connectivity options including Bluetooth, NFC, and support for the latest 802.11ac WiFi standard (wireless).
Rumors point that the Google Nexus 9 from HTC could be unveiled as early as Oct. 15, and the FCC certification at the this phase almost guarantees that we’ll have a new Nexus tablet in the time of holidays.
It’s imminent that the new Nexus tablet will be made by HTC, called it Nexus 9. Confirmed as fact by the FCC, Taiwan’s equivalent of the FCC. While the NCC managed to confirm that this is the purported Nexus 9. Screenshot of the certification document already placed below.
The leaks about the Nexus 9 have strengthen, we’re obviously going to see it getting official pretty soon – past rumors intensified around mid-October and we’re almost there.
The Nexus 9, allegedly got photographed just few days ago, should pack a 64-bit Nvidia Tegra K1 SoC and 8.9-inch (2,048×1,440 pixels) resolution touchscreen, an 8-megapixel rear camera, and front speakers – if previous speculations are to be believed.
Source (in Chinese) Source | Via


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|Micro small entrepreneurs join in a class organised by the project. Up to date, nine courses have been organised and have attracted 110 micro entrepreneurs in some districts of HCM City. — VNS File Photo
HCM CITY (VNS)— Looking at the thriving business Juice "n" joy, a small beverage shop in HCM City's District 6, seems to have it is hard to believe that its owner, Pho Duc Khiem, failed in his previous business.
Earlier he had another small shop at the same spot selling mobile phones, but, despite his best efforts, the business was struggling and made very little profit though he did not even have to pay rent since he owned the building.
He said, "After two years I decided to close the shop."
He switched to selling beverages.
But his fortune did not seem to change until one day when he got an invitation from local authorities to attend a free training programme for small entrepreneurs like him.
"Micro Small Entrepreneurs Support Programme" began in 2013 with the main aim of building capacity for micro small entrepreneurs through basic management training to make them able to grow their business.
Organised by France's European Institute for Co-operation and Development (IECD) and Ton Duc Thang University's Social Development Training Centre, the programme had been run in Districts 6 and Thu Duc with both basic and specialised training courses.
"The objective of the programme is to help micro small entrepreneurs have better piloting skills in their business, consequently moving them from a logic of survival to sustainable and income-generating growth," Thai Huu Tuan, vice principal of Ton Duc Thang, said.
This would gradually help eliminate poverty, the living conditions of each family would improve, and society would become wealthier, he said.
The trainees are taught by people who have graduated in business administration and have at least two years of experience.
After more than a year of running the programme on a trial basis until the end of May, organisers held a formal inaugural ceremony in HCM City in the middle of June.
They said the expenditure during the trial period amounted to around US$85,000.
The programme targets micro small entrepreneurs like those selling sugarcane juice, soup, and coffee and washing vehicles and hairdressers.
"They teach us how to manage, calculate the investment, how to identify suitable strategies, and how to compete with rivals so that we can improve our business," Khiem said.
The teaching includes theory and practical training, he said.
He told Viet Nam News that he is now so confident that he plans to open more shops soon.
Because of that, despite being very busy, he spends several hours a week attending all the classes.
Nguyen Thi Cuc, a soup seller in District 6, said she was taught useful business theory.
"In just three days I found that the programme was very effective. So I introduced it to many friends."
According to the organisers, the programme has so far seen nine courses, which were attended by 110 micro entrepreneurs.
Thuy Blais, the programme project manager, said they made a painfully slow start. After going from house to house to persuade people to attend, they got all of three people to attend the first session.
But it has now become very popular and there are plans to take the programme to Districts 8, Binh Tan, and Tan Phu.
Blais told Viet Nam News that the organisers are looking for more sponsors to expand the programme. — VNS


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WILLISTON PARK, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) – Customers stepped in at the 11th hour to save a staple of a small town on Long Island nearly forced to close, CBS2’s Steve Overmyer reported Friday.
Stepping through Hildebrant’s doors is a journey back in time. The old fashioned soda shop has been in business in Williston Park for nearly 100 years.
The building was on the verge of being sold this week to a company that wanted to turn it into a state of the art coffee shop.
But, when the current owners broke the news to followers on social media, the response was overwhelming.
“The whole town… they were really upset. We have 35 years and it’s my life. We put a lot of time and effort into it. We really didn’t wanna see it just disappear,” said Thomas Bauman, the manager at Hildebrandt’s.
The business opened in 1927 and still displays its original neon sign. Over the years, countless smiling faces bellied up to the marble counter, waiting for a homemade sundae that was sure to brighten their day.
The thought of losing this piece of history affected all generations.
“I was emotionally upset about it, to be honest. I was losing something that, I had come now for the past 22 years here, to have my fix of ice cream,” said Rich Hoag of Mineola.
Within hours of the social media post, the community comments reached into the thousands – the potential buyer backed out because of the response.
“He saw all those messages about how nostalgic this place is and how much it means to the community,” said Bauman. “He did the right thing.”
A new buyer stepped in and made it clear: Hildebrant’s isn’t going anywhere.
You can get the latest news, sports and weather on our brand new CBS New York app. Download here.


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WHERE TO WATCH
Why Apple's China Woes are Far From Over
February 11, 2019
Updated 6d ago
John Meyer, Managing Partner at Transpire Ventures, joined Cheddar to discuss Apple's sales slump in China, and what the iPhone maker has to compete in the world's second largest economy.
Former Google Employee Claims Company Fails 'Don't Be Evil' Mission
Feb 11, 2019
Grab & Go [2/11/19]: Smartphone Growth Stalls in China, Trump Commits to A.I.
Smartphone growth slowed in China for the final quarter of 2018, with iPhone sales falling by 20 percent. Plus, President Trump will sign an executive order promoting artificial intelligence on Monday. Kristen Scholer and Tim Stenovec discuss these stories and much more in our weekly Grab & Go segment.
Feb 11, 2019
Closing Bell: February 11, 2019
Softbank makes a major investment in robotic delivery start-up Nuro. Plus, Redditt's valuation soars to $3 billion. And Super Bowl champions Brandon King and Jonathan Jones, two key members of the New England Patriots defense talk about this year's win.
Jan 23, 2019
Xiaomi's Release Footage Teasing Foldable Smartphone
Xiaomi co-founder and president Lin Bin shared footage of a foldable phone prototype. But is there really a demand for the product? Scott Stein, Senior Editor at CNET.com, joined Cheddar to discuss.


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Packaging firm Macfarlane Group has acquired Nottingham-based One Packaging Ltd in a deal worth up to £2.75 million.
Glasgow-based Macfarlane said the acquisition will strengthen its existing packaging distribution activities in the East Midlands.
All 15 One Packaging staff, including management, will now transfer over to Macfarlane Group.
Main market-listed Macfarlane has agreed to pay an initial £2 million in cash from existing borrowing facilities.
A further £0.75 million is to be paid in cash and Macfarlane share split, deferred until the third quarter of 2016 and subject to earn-outs, with One targeting to improve turnover and operating profits by more than 25 per cent by the end of the earn-out period.
Macfarlane chief executive, Peter Atkinson, said: “One is a good quality, successful packaging distributor.
“This acquisition demonstrates our continuing commitment to the strategy of developing our leadership position in the UK market for the distribution of protective packaging.
“We are delighted that Greg Almond will remain with the business.
“His considerable knowledge and expertise will complement the existing Macfarlane business in the East Midlands area.”
Macfarlane Group noted in a trading update in May sales in the first four months of the year were up 13 per cent on last year, bolstered by its Lane Packaging and Network Packaging acquisitions, which closed in May and September 2014 respectively.
Shares in Macfarlane Group were up 1.9 per cent in early trading on Wednesday.


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Not to be outdone today, Lionsgate has just set the recent live action Power Rangers film for release on 6/27. Look for it on Blu-ray, DVD, and 4K Ultra HD. We expect those release details soon too.
Finally this afternoon, and based on retail information, it looks as if Sony Pictures Home Entertainment may be getting ready to release a new Spider-Man Origins: Limited Edition Collection on Blu-ray on 6/13, which would be a 4-disc set that’s expected to include Spider-Man, Spider-Man 2 and 2.1, Spider-Man 3, and – just maybe – a new Spider-Man 3.1 cut from director Sam Raimi too. There’s also The Spider-Man Evolution: Limited Edition Collection coming that day as a 3-disc set, with both reboot Amazing Spider-Man films. And for 4K fans, it appears that The Spider-Man Legacy Collection is coming in Ultra HD as well. All of this, of course, would be meant to tie into the 7/7 theatrical release of the new Spider-Man: Homecoming feature film. We’re trying to confirm this with Sony, but – third time’s the charm today – we expect official announcements any day now.
That’s all for now. Back tomorrow. Stay tuned…
- Bill Hunt


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From the Express and Star
An email address containing the threat “we have come to slaughter” in Arabic was linked to the Manchester bomber’s brother and used to buy a key ingredient for homemade explosives, a court has heard.
Handwritten scraps of paper bearing the email address [email protected] were found in a bin at the family home of Salman and Hashem Abedi in the aftermath of the attack on May 22 2017, which killed 22 and injured hundreds of others, the Old Bailey was told. Translated, ‘bedabjeana’ means ‘To slaughter we have come’, or ‘We have come to slaughter’.
Hashem, the younger brother, is accused of plotting with 22-year-old Salman, who died in the suicide bombing as concert-goers left the Ariana Grande gig.
The brothers allegedly duped friends and associates into helping to buy components of the explosive TATP, while switching vehicles and phones to ensure their actions went undetected.
They also found an unused address near their home to take delivery of the chemicals ordered on Amazon using others’ bank details and fake emails, it was alleged. On Thursday, prosecutor Duncan Penny QC said the bedab7 email address was created on March 20 2017 while connected to free wifi in the Hulme Market area of south Manchester.
Automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) data placed a Toyota Aygo bought by Hashem at the scene, it was alleged. The vehicle, bought for £250, was later wrecked in a road crash, allegedly scuppering the brothers’ plans to transport chemicals to a home they were renting in Rusholme, south Manchester.
That address – 44 Lindum Street – was used to order delivery of 30 litres of hydrogen peroxide, one of TATP’s three components. The bedab7 email was used to make the purchase, the court was told.
The court heard that the previous month police stopped Hashem’s friend Mohammed Younis Soliman at Manchester Airport.
They seized his phone and downloaded data, which linked the purchase of 10 litres of sulphuric acid, Mr Soliman and the Abedis, jurors heard. However, the connection was only made when the data was analysed after the blast.
Mr Penny said acquiring large quantities of chemicals risked raising “awkward questions in even the most gullible people”. The prosecutor said the Abedis therefore began using the Rusholme property in March to take receipt of Amazon deliveries.
A third car, a Nissan Micra, was also in the brothers’ possession for just over 24 hours on April 13/14, the court heard. After the bombing the Micra was found parked up in the Rusholme area of Manchester . . . Inside, police found Hashem’s fingerprints, some bags of screws and nails handled by the defendant and more than 10 litres of sulphuric acid in the boot and traces of TATP,
Jurors were told how both Abedi brothers had visited a B&Q store in Stockport where their mother’s card was used to buy alleged bomb-making tools, including a claw hammer, hacksaw, metal cutters and pliers at the end of March. In April, Salman and Hashem Abedi’s older brother booked them a one-way ticket to Libya with their parents, prompting them to quickly buy the Nissan on Gumtree to store the bomb-making chemicals,
Mr Penny said: “The entire episode smacks of real urgency.” On May 18, just four days before the bombing, Salman returned to the UK alone to finalise his plans,