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Seller says he'll only accept Bitcoins for his $1.9M (20K BTC) condo for sale at Trump SoHo
- Luxury website launches for Bitcoin proprietors
- Trump SoHo condo for sale for $1,947,500 (20,560 BTC)
- 'There are plenty of Bitcoin millionaires out there, and it's burning a hole in their pocket'
Bitcoin mania continues.
One New Yorker is offering a SoHo pad for sale at nearly $2 million but wants the buyer to pay in Bitcoin.
The luxury real estate property on Spring Street in the trendy neighborhood in lower Manhattan was listed on Thursday on BitPremier, a luxury website for 'astute buyers in the Bitcoin community.'
Scroll down for video.
Exclusive: This luxury SoHo pad is offered up for Bitcoin owners only. The listing price is $1.9 million or 20, 00 BTC
Luxury: The one-bedroom downtown Manhattan condo is 741 sq. ft.
Downtown: The Bitcoin only unit sits in the Trump SoHo, the 46-story hotel located on Spring Street in the trendy Manhattan neighborhood
The condo is located in the Trump SoHo, a 46-story hotel condominium. The unit is a one bedroom, 1.5 bath and is 741 sq. ft.
Amenities in the building include a roof deck, swimming pool and room service, the newly launched BitCoin retail website stated in the listing.
Alan Silbert, the founder of BitPremier, told Business Insider that the SoHo condo is just among the numerous luxury items that will be available to Bitcoin owners on the new website.
'There are plenty of Bitcoin millionaires out there, and it's burning a hole in their pocket,' he said.
'I think buyers will be easy to come by.'
In Bitcoin we trust: Bitcoin is a type of online currency that can be exchanged for dollars. It first emerged in 2008 and launched as a network in 2009
'We're finding a lot of wealthy, smart people are getting into the game with Bitcoin,' he explained.
'I think as the ecosystem matures, I think you’re going to see a lot more of that.'
Bitcoins are created, distributed, and authenticated independently of any bank or government.
The a digital currency, bought and sold on a peer-to-peer network independent of any central
control, introduced four years ago.
Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss are among the select group of Bitcoin millionaires.
Speaking to The New York Times, the twins acknowledged that they own roughly 1 per cent of Bitcoin, which equates to about $11million.
House hunters: Bitcoin millionaires Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss (in Feb at NYC Fashion Week) are among the eligible buyers for the swanky SoHo real estate
Amenities: The unit at the Trump Hotel comes with amenities like a fitness center, pool and hotel room service
The currency's cryptographic features make it virtually immune from counterfeiting, and its relative anonymity holds out the promise of being able to spend money across the Internet without fear of censors, regulators or nosey officials.
The linchpin of the system is a network of 'miners' - high-end computer users who supply the Bitcoin network with the processing power needed to maintain a transparent, running tally of all transactions.
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Chennai, Nov 20: Festa Italiana 2008 is bringing Italy to India
with Venetian violin music and lasagne to car and fashion brands.
Organised for the seventh year by the Indo-Italian Chamber of
Commerce and Industries (IICCI), the festival focusses on cultural
interaction, but, as board member of the IICCI Giuseppe Mirabito
told the press on Wednesday, Nov 20 'with culture comes
Each year the festival focusses on one particular Italian region and this year it is Veneto in the north east of the southern European country, home to the famous city of Venice.

domain: news


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All-New Midsize SUV Teased Ahead of Geneva Motor Show Debut
- Author: Arturo Norris Feb 28, 2017,
Feb 28, 2017, 8:55
Volvo has revealed that the XC60 will build on the suite of autonomous driver assist systems already found in the brand's models.
Though Volvo has not released specific details for the 2018 XC60 SUV, it is expected to have the latest technologies including the new Sensus infotainment system and a variety of active safety features like Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control and Autopilot. We certainly can't wait to see what the future XC60 will have to offer. Images seen by our sister title Auto Express suggest the new XC60 will also sport the same sort of vertically stacked rear lights as the XC90. "With the XC60 we are determined to take the next step in reducing avoidable collisions with the addition of steering support and assistance systems", said Malin Ekholm, Director of Volvo's Safety Centre. Between 31 and 62mph, it means the auto can steer around obstacles without driver input.
Volvo has form in this regard, with the XC90 leaping in size, and the XC60 shares the flagship SUV's SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) platform, which also underpins the S90 and V90.
Around at the back it looks like it will use a similar taillight design as the outgoing model, only using LED technology instead of conventional bulbs. The powertrain list is also expected to include a 254bhp 2.0-liter petrol engine and a plug-in hybrid derivative is also on the card that is expected to receive a 1.5-liter, turbocharged, three-cylinder petrol engine paired to an electric motor to produce a combined output of approximately 250bhp.
Following the car's launch in 2017, Volvo will introduce the all-new S60 saloon and V60 estate. Let us know in the comments section below.


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Cryptocurrency is getting to be the thing now. Would you invest?
Mastercard now accepts cryptocurrencies as terms of payment. The firm has started some preparations in supporting cryptocurrencies later this year. This news was confirmed by the company’s Digital Asset and Blockchain VP, Raj Dhamodharan in a blog post.
Mastercard: The new payment system
Despite the biggest goal, many have been cautious with this coming Mastercard’s implementation. The company has to be wary and have to stick with the rules. They have to reach the security, compliance, and reliability criteria. Aside from this, merchants can be bragged by this payment system for they have also to accept cryptocurrencies as a payment.
The primary measurement to have this implemented on the mastercard’s system is its consumer protection. Essentially “the same level of security people have come to expect in their credit cards,” Dhamodharan said. In other words, cryptocurrencies need to implement stricter compliance requirements. Mastercard has to adhere to local regulations and laws in the regions they are operating. Lastly, they have to use digital assets.
Mastercard’s plan in fully embracing cryptocurrencies is a first step in allowing other platforms to do the same such as paypal.
TESLA Bought $1.5 Billion Of Bitcoin, Indicating Acceptance Of Cryptocurrency
In the Security and Exchange Commission filing disclosure, Tesla revealed that it bought worth $1.5 billion of bitcoin, the famous cryptocurrency. The company further indicates that it may soon accept bitcoin as a form of payment for its cars subject to the regulation surrounding it.
As the news broke out, the price of bitcoin immediately increased by around 7% surpassing $40,000 per coin, says Alex Wilhelm of TechCrunch.
Previously, Elon Musk, TESLA CEO, has already announced that he is supportive of bitcoin. Nevertheless, purchasing such a big amount clearly speaks louder than words. Elon Musk though said that he is already late on this act, he should have started accumulating cryptocurrency eight years ago.


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The company said it has shipped over two million trackers around the world over the past 18 months, and a third of that - around 660,000 - was to China.
Misfit's CEO Sonny Vu said, "We actually outsell the Fitbit in China". This is an impressive statement to be able to make, though we don't know which timeframe Vu is referring to.
Fitbit is undoubtedly the bestseller globally with 3.9 million total sales of its Charge HR, Surge and Flex trackers in the first quarter of 2015. But after landing in China last summer, Fitbit has clearly not yet made a huge splash there, perhaps down to competition from Misfit and Xiaomi.
Essentail reading: The best fitness tracker
Misfit's CEO, Sonny Vu, says the sales are largely down to the stylish design of the Shine and Flash, saying that many wearables "look like they were designed by geeks for geeks, as opposed to for the mass market and women".
In 2014, Misfit raised $40 million in a round of funding, with a huge investment coming from China, including the country's giants JD.com and Xiaomi. "This whole thing with Xiaomi and JD.com was basically done so that we can really amplify our presence in China and also to accelerate product development," Vu said.
No matter where you are trying to sell a wearable, design matters, and in Asia particularly early adopters want to express style and personality. As for the potential market, look at Xiaomi's own cheap and cheerful tracker, the Mi Band. We've also seen Apple's gold iPhones do very well in China, and with rumours of a cheaper gold Apple Watch Sport, it seems Apple could be aiming to build on the prestige the brand has while it lasts.
So it's still early days for both Fitbit and Misfit with less than 1m sales each in China. But Misfit will no doubt consider the country that's buying a third of its devices when it comes to its next line of trackers.


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Many 3PLs, needing to better manage the diversity of e-commerce fulfillment and retail store replenishment for their client companies, are turning to more intelligent solutions, like warehouse execution systems (WES), to improve productivity.
Lifting gear failure can have dramatic consequences for both those directly affected and those held responsible. To ensure safe practice it is crucial that users are fully aware of issues surrounding Design Working Period and maintenance responsibilities, writes Ben Dobbs, Technical Manager at the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA).
When it comes to the international transportation of vehicles, importers usually prefer one of two major shipping methods: Container shipping and RoRo shipping. Basically, either one of these is quite practical and secure when it comes to the safe transportation of your vehicle. However, there are some consideration to be made in terms of whether or not RoRo is the better of the two options. So, today we discuss the benefits and flaws of the RoRo shipping methods, as well as the difference it has in comparison with container shipping.
In April 2017, a cargo phosphates was loaded on the bulk carrier NM CHERRY BLOSSOM at El Aaiun, Western Sahara. This was one of a regular shipment of phosphates sold fob by the Moroccan company, OCP SA, to the New Zealand Company Ballance Agri-Nutrients Ltd.
The logistics industry is expected to continue its rapid growth and tech giants Amazon and Uber saw the potential lying in this current situation. Last-mile delivery, trucking, automation - they have invested in a variety of logistic segments.
With a commercial truck driver shortage looming, a high school in Patterson, California decided to take a proactive approach by creating a truck driving school program dedicated to bring new drivers into the industry.
In recent years, a global reorientation of global trade towards the East, aided by developments under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, has reshaped the port infrastructure landscape. Even as port operators look to adjust to changing economic trends, geopolitical imperatives, demographic shifts and technological innovation, opportunities are ripe for companies who can position themselves to take advantage of the challenges.


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Since the exclusive licensing deal with EA has ended, it seems that Porsche cars are springing up everywhere and becoming a little ubiquitous. That should be good news for all fans of the legendary marque and especially fans looking forward to the upcoming rally title, WRC 7
Kylotonn has announced that the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS RGT will be included as a special bonus car for those pre-ordering the new rally game, which is quite significant as it marks the first time that any Porsche has been included in the franchise. However, with the digital download version being available shortly — almost two weeks ahead of the physical copy — those wishing to get hold of the car will have to get their pre-orders in quickly.
To mark the occasion, Klyotonn has released a trailer of in-game action featuring the French driver Romain Dumas' car on the Rally de España tarmac, looking insanely fast.
will be available on the Xbox One as digital download from September 15th, with physical copies hitting stores from September 26th.
We've got the full list of WRC 7 achievements
- check the list for guides to unlocking them.


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The ability of malware writers to consistently stay ahead of those seeking to stop them has been a constant factor in the security industry over the past several years.
Looking to 2009, don't expect that situation to change, security analysts and vendors concede glumly. In fact, with cybercrime getting more organized and as more money is poured into malware development, it will be a challenge to stop cybercrooks from pulling even further ahead, according to the authors of a report on emerging cyberthreats for 2009 and beyond.
For the most part, the threats are not unexpected or especially new. What's different is the increasing sophistication and refinement that malware writers are adding to their tools and attack techniques. Among the emerging threats identified in the report are the following:
Bugs and botnets in the mobile world:
The features built into smart phones, such as Apple Inc.'s iPhone, RIM LLC's Blackberry, Google Inc.'s Android and Windows-enabled mobile devices are making them increasingly computer-like in their functionality. And therein lies a security problem.
The more the systems emulate traditional PCs and notebooks, the more prone they are to the security risks that have bedeviled the computer industry for years, said Patrick Traynor, an assistant professor in the School of Computer Science at Georgia Tech and a GTISC member.
A user surfing the Web using an unprotected smart phone will, in the not-too-distant future, be just as likely to catch a nasty bug as a user doing so with a PC today, Traynor said. Malware writers will need to first re-architect and retool their products to get them to run in a mobile environment. As more people begin using smart phones to transact business and to store personal identity information and credit card numbers, the mobile device category as a whole becomes a lot more attractive for cyberthieves. This is especially so because mobile devices are relatively less-protected than PC environments.
Expect to see attackers attempting to inject malware into cell phones to turn them into remote-controlled bots, Traynor said. Such bots can then be used to deliver spam, steal data, or launch distributed denial-of-service attacks that can cripple cell-phone networks, Traynor said.
Tools are already available for crafting exploits for the iPhone, said Tom Cross, a security researcher with IBM's Internet Security Systems, X-Force security team and a contributor to the GTISC report. It's just a matter of time before the same kinds of tools become available for every major cell phone platform, he said. The only reason it hasn't happened already is because cell phones are not viewed as being especially attractive targets by malicious attackers, he said.
One of the big questions that needs to be answered before the attacks start is who should be responsible for addressing the issue -- the users, with potentially battery-draining third-party fixes, device manufacturers or the service providers, Cross said. "We think that the impact that botnets of infected smart devices will have on the performance and reliability of telecommunications networks will affect the decision-making process," he said.


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The Tor Project announced on its blog today that the service suffered two different types of attacks in an attempt to uncover information that could remove the anonymity of sources accessing hidden services. Tor states that the attackers are so far unknown, but it states that anyone that accessed any hidden services from the beginning of February through July 4 should assume they're affected by the attack.
Companies will likely be hesitant to comply
The Russian government has proposed that two Western companies, Apple and SAP, grant access to their source code so it can determine whether or not products are tools for spying on state organizations and/or the public, Reuters reports. Russia's communications minister, Nikolai Nikiforov, is said to have made the request when he met last week with Apple's local general manager, Peter Nielsen, and SAP's local managing director, Vyacheslav Orekhov. In an official Communications Ministry statement, Nikiforov comments that "Edward Snowden's revelations in 2013 and US intelligence services' public statements about the strengthening of surveillance of Russia in 2014 have raised a serious question of trust in foreign software and hardware."
Company turnaround underway, says CEO in wake of deal
At its annual BlackBerry summit, the beleagured smartphone manufacturer has announced a deal that will see it acquire Germany's Secusmart to enhance its own security offerings. BlackBerry CEO John Chen said of the deal that it "creates that much more distance between [BlackBerry] and competitors" in the battle for corporate and governmental business share.
App masquerading as Flash, others, can break Android sandboxing
Mobile device researchers Bluebox Security have discovered a serious flaw in Google's Android operating system that dates back to version 2.1, and is still present (albeit weakened) in the new 5.0 preview. The "Fake ID" security flaw allows a fake app to include an invalid security certificate, claiming that it is an app with sandbox-breaking privileges, in essence, giving the malicious app root access to the phone and all its contents.
Visit tied to investigation, Microsoft states that it will cooperate with officials
Officials from the China's State Administration for Industry and Commerce (AIC) showed up at four Microsoft offices in the country unannounced earlier today. Offices in Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou and Shanghai received the sudden visits, that could be tied to the start of an antitrust investigation for a presently-unknown reason. The visits come at a time when Microsoft faces scrutiny in the country, over spying allegations and government refusal of Windows 8.
Review score of customers by Uber drivers pulled from view
Bill headed to oval office, with Obama willing to sign
In an unexpected move, and avoiding a potential fight, the House of Representatives has passed bill S517, aiming to make cellphone unlocking legal. The amended bill, passed by the Senate last week, was passed with no changes -- a controversial clause of the bill previously passed by the House, prohibiting bulk unlocking by companies, has been removed from the final passed version.
Free games, subscriptions offered as compensation for PSN intrusion
Sony has agreed to a preliminary settlement worth $15 million in a hacking class-action lawsuit in the United States. The agreement, which still requires approval from a judge, will see Sony handing out free games to console owners affected by the April 2011 PlayStation Network hack, which saw the shutdown of the service and Qriocity for several weeks, as well as compromising personal data and credit card information from over 77 million users.
Tools intended strictly for diagnostics, file capture, company says
In another step to address concerns of possible backdoors in iOS, Apple has published a newdocument explaining what three services are intended to do. The first, com.apple.mobile.pcapd, is said to support "diagnostic packet capture from an iOS device to a trusted computer," something useful for "troubleshooting and diagnosing issues with apps on the device as well as enterprise VPN connections." Another, com.apple.mobile.file_relay, "supports limited copying of diagnostic data from a device."
Company says no breach confirmed, but continuing investigation with authorities
Goodwill Industries International, the business entity behind the popular nonprofit second-hand stores, announced this week that it is investigating a potential data breach involving credit card data. The breach was said to occur in selected stores within the United States, but Goodwill has offered no information on which stores were affected.
May enable collection of private data by Apple, governments
[Updated with rebuttal from Apple] Apple's iOS platform contains several backdoors that may allow for Apple and/or governments to collect private data, according to a forensic scientist, Jonathan Zdziarski. Presenting at the recent Hackers On Planet Earth (HOPE/X) conference, Zdziarski said that that there are several conspicuous design gaps -- and some deliberately-included forensic services -- that make it possible to extract data using forensic tools. The services have names such as "lockdownd," "pcapd," and "mobile.file_relay."
NSA whistleblower points to board member, companies should have no access to data
In an interview with UK newspaper The Guardian last week, fugitive American whistleblower Edward Snowden made it clear that he opposed cloud companies that had access to user data. He specifically pointed out Dropbox as being "hostile to privacy" for a number of reasons, including a board appointment of an ex-government official with ties to suspected privacy violations.
Could be important step towards reducing hacking
Apple has dramatically expanded the reach of its two-step Apple ID verification option, adding another 48 regions to the previous 11. The full list of countries with support is below. When two-step verification is on, trying to change account details or make an iTunes/App Store purchase from a new device will send a code via SMS or Find My iPhone. Only once this code is entered can an action continue.
Nest is essentially jailbroken, uses a custom tool to end reporting back to company
A group of researchers from the University of Central Florida (UCF) discovered a way to root the Nest thermostat in the process of finding a way to hack the device to steal data and install malware. Led by engineering professor Yier Jin, the team used physical access to accomplish the hack even though it is built with security in mind. During the hacking discovery, the team came up with a way to stop the device from reporting data back to Google (or Nest).
Service sends out notes after user passes away, cleans up personal data on Internet
Yahoo Japan launched an interesting service this week, one that gives people an option for deleting part of their digital lives once they reach the end of their physical ones. The service, called Yahoo Endings, offers users some basic services like will-writing, but also sends goodbye notes and deletes personal information from Yahoo.
Team discounts now on sale
Dashlane has launched version 3 of its namesake password and wallet management software for Mac and Windows. The update features two major additions, beginning with the Sharing Center, which lets people share passwords with other people while maintaining central control and AES-256 encryption. Although recipients must have a Dashlane account, the system gives administrators the ability to limit re-shares or revoke access, and will sync password changes made by others.
Google not limiting effort to internal apps -- any vendor is fair game
Google has launched a new web-wide security project. Titled "Project Zero", the effort by the search behemoth has the lofty goal to "significantly reduce the number of people harmed by targeted attacks." Google intends to have no bounds for the project, planning on working to "improve the security of any software depended upon by large numbers of people, paying careful attention to the techniques, targets and motivations of attackers."
W0rm interested in publicizing security holes, not motivated by profit
Purported white-hat Russian hacker group w0rm has attacked tech news website CNet. The group claims that it has usernames, email addresses, and encrypted passwords for one million users of its information services. A tweet on Monday by the group confirmed the attack, but even after a sale offer for a single Bitcoin was made, the group claims to be interested in drawing attention to security and "nothing more."
Old me.com and mac.com addresses also covered
Apple has started encrypting email traffic between iCloud and third-party services, according to data from a Google transparency website. This includes messages from older me.com and mac.com accounts. The move follows Apple promises in June that encryption would expand beyond iCloud-to-iCloud exchanges, something essential given the greater popularity of services like Google's Gmail.
No-IP will bring tales of woe to Senate, addressing improper enforcement issues
Following the fallout of the Microsoft seizure of No-IP domains, the dynamic domain name service company is speaking to the Senate about the incident. In a hearing scheduled before the Microsoft action against No-IP about proper enforcement of cybercrime laws, No-IP will address the Senate Judiciary Committee today about how the incident was handled, and the need for sensible enforcement so that the Internet property rights of innocent third parties don't become collateral damage in such efforts.
Repository of JTRIG tools shows some that can modify or mimic existing information
Information posted by The Intercept revealed this week that the British Intelligence agency Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) has the tools to modify communications, on top of monitoring them and collecting data. A database in the form of a Wiki entry of internal tools was posted to the site, listing the function and development status of each. Data from social media sites like Facebook, video sites like YouTube and various forms of web traffic and phone calls can all be modified or spoofed.
Original repository remains intact, popcorn-official and time4popcorn dead
The US Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) has issued Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) takedown requests for code repositories for BitTorrent-based video streaming projects based on the Popcorn Time core. The MPAA requested that the code for "popcorn-official" and "time4popcorn" projects be removed from GitHub, but the original Popcorn Time repository remains intact and undeleted.
Apple defines what location tracking does, how it works
Apple has responded to Chinese government media allegations of the iPhone and iPad being a national security threat. A Chinese-language statement titled "Your Location Privacy" has been posted by the Cupertino manufacturer, with the company guaranteeing that it won't track users, or share information location with outsiders. Additionally, it claims that the "frequent locations" feature touted for iOS8 will just "quickly and reliably determine their current locations for specific activities such as shopping, travel, finding the nearest restaurant or calculating the amount of time it takes them to get to work," and not leak any personal data.
Attorney name, fake firm files motion to force Judge Lucy Koh to recuse herself
Silicon Valley's "no poach" lawsuit involving Apple, Adobe, Google, and Intel may be slowly grinding to a conclusion, but not without some peculiar behavior. An investigation has been launched by the US District Court for the Northern District of California and the California State Bar after a court filing was made under an attorney's name without her knowledge, and with a fake lawfirm's name. The incident, and a similar filing made shortly after motion dismissal, is being investigated as a possible identity theft.
Microsoft has little comment over the mishandled matter
The Microsoft and No-IP saga appears to be complete. Just one week after the dynamic domain name service (DNS) had its domains seized by Microsoft, all domains have been returned, users have reported restored functionality, and the lawsuit filed by Microsoft against parent company Vitalwerks has been dropped.
Internet camera looks good on paper, runs into problems in everyday use
Keeping an eye on the home while out and about these days is common practice. Internet cameras have become popular due to the ease of scanning for intruders or checking on the welfare of a child. Selecting the right model can be challenging, based on the number of cameras on the market. Brands like Dropcam and Foscam are generally trusted, but larger companies like Samsung offer alternative solutions. Attempting to bring a Dropcam competitor to consumers, Samsung released the SmartCam HD Pro. But does it offer the features a user needs without hiccups? Find out in our review.
Claims data could be used to glean state secrets
State-run China Central Television has called iOS 7's Frequent Locations function a "national security concern" in a noon broadcast, according to the Wall Street Journal. The report quoted researchers as saying that people with access to the underlying data could get a glimpse of the broader Chinese situation, or "even state secrets." Electronic security has become a sensitive topic for the Chinese government in the wake of leaks from Edward Snowden, revealing that the NSA is spying on Chinese leaders, and that American businesses have willingly or unwillingly provided the NSA with access to demanded data.
Google legal chief outlines removal request difficulties following EU court ruling
Google is still being swamped with requests to remove website listings in Europe, following the Court of Justice of the European Union's ruling on the "right to be forgotten." Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer David Drummond claims the search company has received more than 70,000 takedown requests since the ruling in May, with the requests covering 250,000 webpage listings in its search results.
Latest version for Snow Leopard and higher now required for Flash to work
Following an emergency patch issued by Adobe yesterday for a vulnerability in Flash Player and Adobe AIR that the company deemed "critical" for users to upgrade to, Apple is now blocking all un-upgraded versions of the plug-in in Safari, though the warning dialog will take users to the Flash Installer page where they can obtain the patched version. Users of OS X 10.6 and higher must be running version 22.214.171.124 in order for the Flash plug-in to work normally. Windows and Linux users are also affected by the flaw.
Suit files complaints about wanton, and unauthorized, in-app purchases
According to a US Federal Trade Commission report filed today, Amazon has billed parents and other account holders for millions of dollars in unauthorized in-app charges incurred by children. The FTC's lawsuit seeks a court order requiring refunds for consumers for the unauthorized charges, and permanently banning the company from billing parents and other account holders for in-app charges that have been made without their consent.
Internet Explorer, other Windows apps affected; problem could be widespread
Microsoft Internet Explorer users are being affected by a series of fraudulent transport layer security (TLS) certificates. The fake certificates, issued by India's National Informatics Centre, are trusted by the Microsoft Root Store -- a core library that Internet Explorer and other Windows applications use for identity verification. India's Controller of Certifying Records claims that only four fake certificates were issued, but other sources, including Google, are claiming that there are many more.
Official TLC warning leaves little ambiguity as to regulatory intent
The New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) has escalated the conflict between it and ride-sharing service Lyft. A warning by the TLC, issued yesterday, reminds residents that while the service is indeed opening on Friday and will be offering free rides for two weeks to new subscribers, that the service is unlicensed to operate, and un-investigated drivers may pose a danger to riders.
New offering allows for more secure international communications
Security-focused communications firm Silent Circle today announced the expansion of Out-Circle Calling (OCC). The expansion allows for encrypted hybrid calling, which enables Silent Circle members to make and receive encrypted, private voice calls through the company's Silent Phone service to non-Silent Circle subscribers in 79 total countries.
Social media usage examined in government-funded research
The US military has been analyzing the use and influence of social networks and social media, according to a report. Research funded by DARPA under the Social Media in Strategic Communication (SMISC) program was conducted with the ultimate aim of developing tools to help "counter misinformation or deception campaigns with truthful information."
Flaw allows attackers to steal authenticating cookies, hasn't been seen in wild yet
Adobe has issued an emergency patch of its Flash Player technology to correct a security flaw that could allow hackers false access to thousands of popular websites -- notably Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr and eBay among many others. The patch, which will update Flash to version 126.96.36.199, is considered "critical" for users of OS X, Windows and Linux operating systems. Even if users have Flash Player disabled in their browser, they may still need to update if they are using any products that require Adobe AIR.
Wild game restaurant near DC blames erroneous listing for closure
Long-time Washington DC metro area restaurant The Serbian Crown has sued Google. After experiencing a 75 percent drop in weekend customers, owner Rene Bertagna filed the suit following a discovery that the restaurant's Google Places listing had a grievous error -- it incorrectly stated that the restaurant was closed on Saturday through Monday. The suit alleges that the incorrect information given to customers from the search engine lead to a death spiral of the restaurant, with declining revenue forcing layoffs, which in-turn, drove diners away from poor service and declining food quality.
Robbers leave with seven trucks full of electronic goods from Campinas factory
A group of bandits robbed a Samsung Electronics factory in Brazil last night, escaping with seven trucks filled of goods from the smartphone and notebook computer manufacturer. Reuters reports the factory in Campinas was robbed just before midnight, with 20 robbers, some armed, posing as employees.
Collection of call, text, Internet data to continue under plans by UK ministers
The government of the United Kingdom seeks to force telecommunication companies to log records of calls, texts, and Internet usage for a 12-month period, according to a report. Ministers are said to be attempting to counteract the effects of an European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling in April, by introducing surveillance laws reinstating powers struck down by the court's decision.
Apple, Samsung smartphones singled out in TSA device power rules
Passengers of some international flights terminating in the United States will face a greater scrutiny of their electronics before being allowed on the airplane. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is putting into force new security rules that requires electronic devices to be able to switch on at the time of the security screening, with devices containing flat batteries unable to be let onboard.
Company no longer issuing platform fixes, security updates continue until April 2015
When the next quarterly update to Java rolls around later this month, Oracle says it won't include support for Windows XP users. The critical patch update, scheduled for July 15, updates Java 7 and Java 8 for newer Microsoft operating systems from Vista up to Windows 8. The choice to use Java on XP is left up to users because of the potential risk involved.
EPIC claims social media giant 'purposefully messed with people's minds'
If Facebook hasn't received enough flak for the emotional manipulation study it conducted on its user base, the company could soon face more from regulators. Last week, privacy watchdog group the Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over the one-week study Facebook conducted in 2012 that manipulated users' news feeds.
Service restoration in process, connectivity waiting on DNS propagation
Following Microsoft's seizure of dynamic DNS service No-IP domains on a claim that some were spreading malware, many customers' paid and free connections were no longer functioning. Many of these services have been restored tonight, as Microsoft has begun the process of returning domains to No-IP. As of this evening, all of the seized domains have been returned to the service, with .org redirect restoration waiting on the .org registrar to act. Not all DNS services have been updated, but Electronista can confirm that Verizon FiOS, Google, and OpenDNS are all resolving properly.
Foundation discovers phones less than three years old broadcasting visited locations
Recently, the Internet advocacy and legal group the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) discovered that a number of Android devices could be sharing location information when not connected to Wi-Fi. The Android phones in question periodically send out information on Wi-Fi networks it knows in order to speed up the process of connecting. However, in doing so it gives off previous location data based on stored wireless networks in "human language."
Email sent to wrong address sparks privacy concerns, Google blocks access to email
A Goldman Sachs contractor sent an email containing confidential information to the wrong email account, causing the investment company to contact Google over its removal. After a Google representative told Goldman Sachs that it requires a court order to do so, the company filed a complaint with the Supreme Court of New York requesting that Google delete or retrieve the email. The company further asks for any information pertaining to its access.
Addresses numerous flaws, bugs already addressed in Mavericks 10.9.4
Alongside the release of OS X 10.9.4 Mavericks for newer Macs, Apple has also releases security-oriented updates for OS X 10.7.x (Lion), the server version of Lion, and for 10.8.x Mountain Lion. The vulnerabilities patched for all three versions include an update to the certificate trust policy, a flaw in the "copyfile" command, and an issue with the Dock that could allow apps to circumvent the sandboxing restrictions. Numerous other discovered potential security vulnerabilities were also addressed.
Information Commissioner checks if Facebook research broke UK data laws
The fallout from Facebook's experiment with its users continues, with a UK government agency planning to investigate. The United Kingdom's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), the body that deals with data protection laws in the country, will be looking to see if the social network broke any laws during its testing of emotional manipulation in 2012.
Supports Kensington, similar locks
Apple has released an official security lock adapter for the 2013 Mac Pro. The accessory connects without tools and supports a variety of Kensington locks, plus locks in a "similar style." While in use the adapter prevents easy access to a Pro's internals.
Outlook, OneDrive traffic gains encryption to increase security
Microsoft has announced three new ways the company will improve the security of customer data in the wake of the NSA surveillance revelations. New encryption has been added to Outlook.com, with OneDrive also receiving a similar encryption-based security boost, and the company is also introducing its first "Microsoft Transparency Center" on its Redmond campus, in order to help governments understand and trust the security of the company's software.
No-ip.com domains seized ostensibly to prevent malware spread
Updated with more testing Early Monday morning, Microsoft announced that had seized, by court order, 23 domains used by dynamic IP company no-ip.com. Seeing a preponderance of malware hosts using these domains, the company then routed all "known bad traffic" through Microsoft filters, in order to classify the identified threats. The move was not without innocent victims, however, as users who use the affected domains -- including paid users for legitimate VPN purposes and one MacNN employee -- are this morning unable to connect through the redirect, at least in part.
Four-digit passcode identifies device on top of user credentials
Apple is either testing or in the process of rolling out two-step verification for its iCloud.com portal, optionally allowing users who want to use the two-factor authentication to enter a random four-digit passcode on their device in order to add it to a list of "trusted" devices. The option is not yet available to Apple ID accounts that have previously set the preference for using two-step verification, but improves security over the default "Apple ID password only" method.


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Liverpool announced that it is offering consumer shops to use its stadium monitors to help them control the movement of their visitors during this period, due to the heavy demand for supplies during the emerging Corona virus crisis.
“Our stadium monitors are displaying their time and expertise to volunteer in helping crowd management, classroom management, parking lots, helping the elderly and the disabled to transfer their purchases to their cars,” said club CEO Peter Moore.
Moore considered that these are “the best in this field, and would be happy to assist in any job that you deem appropriate and safe in your stores.”
Liverpool can currently dispense with these monitors in light of the suspension of local football competitions, as well as most sports activities around the world, in efforts to reduce the spread of the “Covid-19” virus.
The move comes in light of reports of the suffering of workers in consumer stores in Britain, and facing problems with the large influx of consumers coming to buy food heavily, in light of the (Covid-19) outbreaks and calls to stay at home and not leave them except for extreme necessities.


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Sega looks set to release a remaster of 2010’s Sonic Colors this year.
Sonic Colors launched for Wii and DS in November 2010. The two versions featured entirely different gameplay, with Wii being developed by Sonic Team and the side-scrolling handheld game by Dimps.
Game publisher Sega previously promised to mark Sonic’s 30th anniversary this year with the release of new games and some major announcements.
This February, Paramount Pictures released the first teaser for Sonic the Hedgehog 2, which is scheduled to hit cinemas on April 8, 2022. And last month, Netflix announced a new Sonic the Hedgehog 3D animated series called Sonic Prime.
Sega is also reportedly planning to stage a Sonic the Hedgehog music concert in 2021 as part of its 30th anniversary plans for the franchise.
“Throughout 2021, Sega will be celebrating Sonic’s 30th anniversary with new game content, a music concert with special guests and a wide array of new licensing and merchandising partnerships,” states February’s Total Licensing magazine, which focuses on brand licensing and extension opportunities.
Over 1.14 billion Sonic game units have been sold and downloaded since the series debuted in 1991, according to Sega.


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Well, the dress has been found ... to be a fake!
The thief who took the gown says he took the dress from Lupita's room at The London after finding the door ajar.
[Image via WENN.]
Brooklyn Decker coast to coast red carpet bonanza continued on Thursday at the El Lay premiere of Battleship.
Unlike her last appearances, Mrs. Roddick looked rather lifeless in a chiffon Christian Dior and Giuseppe Zanotti sandals.
We don't know about you, but it feels like something's lacking from Brooklyn's ensemble. Some jewelry and a more elegant updo would have made all the difference.
[Image via Brian To/WENN.]


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Honda picked their new Silicon Valley facility as the location to unveil their new 2016 Honda Accord, a model which they say is the most high-tech Honda Accord ever.
Both the sedan and coupe will be facelifted, but the initial image set released by Honda only shows the sedan, which is good for us anyway since we only get the sedan in Malaysia. Details on the facelifted Accord Hybrid will come later.
Exterior-wise, the new 2016 Honda Accord gets a more sharply creased front bumper with outside edges that tuck into intake-like meshed areas that house new LED fog lights. The new jewelled headlamps are very Acura-esque.
There’s also a new aluminum hood features sharper character lines. In the rear, the Accord gets restyled LED taillights and a similarly aggressive rear bumper fascia redesign.


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Adult community’s luxurious new brand reflects an exclusive living experience
After much anticipation, The Palazzo is set to unveil its multimillion-dollar redesign and rebrand in April. At the forefront of active adult living trends, The Palazzo’s warm, luxurious new look will bring a new generation of seniors the sophisticated lifestyle they deserve and expect.
“Today’s active adult has high expectations so we’re pushing the envelope from the senior industry perspective by offering a sleek, modern look, upgrading our care levels, adding the latest technology and expanding activities,” said Mark Aronauer, Director of Sales and Marketing. “This is a community where you are moving in because you’ve aged to a point where you have the freedom and the luxury to relax and enjoy life in a gorgeous environment.”
The stylish community brings Valley residents a full-service continuum of care with 400 private and companion apartments dedicated to independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care.
New look, new brand
The completion of an extensive property-wide renovation marks an exciting new era for The Palazzo. Over the past two years, the community has undergone a transformation to bring residents and their loved ones a truly unique living experience. Residents already enjoy freshly updated living spaces decorated with sophisticated decor and modern appliances, as well as a beautifully restored campus.
To reflect the many enhancements and added services and amenities, The Palazzo is teaming up with AWE Collective in Tempe to refresh its brand identity. The new logo captures The Palazzo’s luxurious resort-style atmosphere with clean lines and neutral colors.
“We really want people to get the feeling that this is something different, this is something new, and something modern and definitely forward-thinking,” said Evie Carpenter, Publicist at AWE. “The Palazzo is on the leading edge and this new logo and new look is a reflection of the changes that have been going on inside the community. We’re hoping that other communities like this in the Valley and the industry as a whole take note.”
When The Palazzo joined forces with AWE for a rebrand, the objective was to reflect The Palazzo’s transformation and how the community is breaking new ground in the senior living industry.
“With this $10 million renovation, The Palazzo is focusing on the active lifestyle and high-end atmosphere that all of us strive for when we age, not the stereotypical clinical environment too many of us picture when we think of a senior community,” said Carpenter. “The Palazzo is breaking the mold of what it means to age in place so we wanted to break the mold of a typical senior living brand, as well.”
Carpenter is excited to capture The Palazzo’s casual, upscale ambience in the new brand.
“High-end resorts were a big inspiration for this new look,” she said. “The new logo is sleek and luxurious. The slight wave across the Z’s offers a coastal vibe, giving viewers a subtle getaway feel, while the pop of orange makes sure the brand still feels energetic and lively. You could easily see it mixing in with your favorite fashion brands or high-end resorts, and that’s exactly what we were going for,” she said.
The new logo also captures the community’s warm, supportive atmosphere.
“The Palazzo is making sure its residents are truly living their best lives with the genuine warmth, friendships and care their staff provide, and these renovations are simply raising the bar that much more. We just wanted the logo and branding to meet the high standards that The Palazzo has already set,” said Carpenter.
The rebranding process is just the start of The Palazzo’s leading-edge transformation in the senior living market.
“We have so many exciting things planned for The Palazzo,” said Carpenter, “and revealing this new brand is just the first step.”
To schedule a tour of The Palazzo, call 602-433-6300.


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Samsung’s next-generation tablets may be able to roll up and fit in your pocket
We’ve come a long way since we were using scrolls on a regular basis, but thanks to the advancements in mobile technology, we may return to them soon. I’m not talking about the paper kind, but about smart scroll-like devices with rollable screens that can be turned into tablets or smartphones with a push of a button.
Samsung is looking at such form factor, a new patent discovery shows, that would allow users to carry in their pockets the new tablets of the future -- ones which can be rolled up to make them more portable.
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Samsung’s next-generation tablets may be able to roll up and fit in your pocket originally appeared on BGR.com on Tue, 2 Jan 2018 at 23:06:40 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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The industry is undergoing a paradigm shift with new-age technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Robotics playing a game-changing role.
Historically, it’s explained and understood that exporting manufacturing goods has been the way in driving economic growth for India. However, little is known about that exporting of technology is as significant as exporting goods. Rather, it’s even better. Since gross margins in technology exceeds 50%+ going up to in some cases 80%+ as well, such sunrise sectors can create enormous wealth in the country. Trickle down effect of such sunrise sectors can be massive and a small potential for such an effect was seen in the rise of the knowledge economy in the 2000s, which resulted in technology export that has been happening for the last 25 years now. Indeed, the country’s IT industry has increased its contribution to India’s GDP and as per a report by NASSCOM, the IT industry’s aggregated revenues stood at US$180 billion in 2019, with export revenue clocking in US$99 billion growth. Moreover, this industry is expected to touch $300-350 billion in terms of revenue by 2026. The resulting economy and cash in hands of people and resulting taxation has created the impetus and room for the government to take up inclusive growth projects.
So then which component stands critical – Manufacturing or Technology?
There is no denying that a low-income country became a middle-income country through export. Even the economists, for instance, agree that export is the key in boosting the transformation in order to bring the haves and the have nots to the same position. Having said that, the question is what to export? The obvious answer till date has been exporting of manufacturing goods.
In the case of India, engineering goods, chemicals, textiles as well as gems and jewelry, have been major export items to South Eastern countries, Middle East, China, to name a few. Then looking at the dynamically evolving global markets, the funda was to: think global, that implies Indian manufacturers need to adopt a global mindset. They were pushed to strengthen innovation by leveraging emerging technologies to acquire market access as well as build a global footprint. However, the export of these items alone cannot work in the favour of bridging the gap between the haves and the have nots. Besides, there have been several internal as well as external barriers to export these items.
Now looking at India’s post-liberalization phase, the actual wealth ultimately came from one single export industry that is the IT industry. Yes, this went and earned the dollars and that’s what stimulated everything else.
So at this point, the concern is what should India concentrate on? Manufacturing Exports or Technology. Should India treat its strong point and discard the weak?
To put things into perspective, traditional manufacturing is a laggard for India at the moment. In fact, with the rapid growth of technology, the IT industry encompassing several tech and services, or maybe exporting our outsourcing of IT manpower have built the potential in these years to bring in actual value to the country, with potential for large and small industries to leapfrog into industry 4.0. While India has a strong base in IT, leveraging it for Indian manufacturing to take the transition into industry 4.0 would be a great way forward.
The shift towards AI and Robotics
The industry is undergoing a paradigm shift with new-age technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Robotics playing a game-changing role. For instance, at least 7-8 years ago, SAAS (software as a service) model was considered a fad. But now, SAAS is mainstream. Similarly, AI and Robotics are today moving out of of R&D of multinational companies and academics into the innovation mainstream. And this shall continue to be in the future as the AI and robots market is expected to grow from USD 3.49 Billion in 2018 to USD 12.36 Billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 28.78%, as per a recent report.
So, if India aspires to become a global superpower, it is time to start off now with the massive talent pool available (8% of global AI talent pool is in India). Such a massive talent pool, which is rapidly growing can allow India to become a global leader in AI & Robotics. Diverse data sets found in India can allow for robust AI & Robotics solutions to be developed for the world out of India. An autonomous car built for Indian roads can work everywhere in the world. Higher margin innovation driven businesses based on creative usage of AI & Robotics will result in a better tax base for the government to improve healthcare and education for all, reducing the rift between haves and havenots.
Source: Business World


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Work is underway on the next phase of Frontier Park near Blackburn, just weeks after planning permission was granted.
Developer Monte (Blackburn), the property and development company for the Issa family, has spared no time in getting onto the site off the M65.
Despite the challenging times, steel work is now being erected for a further 300,000 sq ft of speculative build for the manufacturing and logistics market.
Units of between 40,000 sq ft and 150,000 sq ft will be ready for occupation later this year.
As part of the next phase, FP Prospect will offer the chance for smaller business to locate onto Frontier providing 14,000 sq ft to let in units of 3,000 and 5,000 sq ft.
This leaves one final plot on a ‘Design and Build’ basis, with the potential to accommodate a building of up to 300,000 sq ft.
Reservations for space are already being discussed with occupiers.
After a year of marketing, the first phase of the scheme is now fully let and firmly established as one of the region’s premier business and logistics parks.
The first phase brought forward in excess of 400,000 sq ft of warehouse and manufacturing units from 20,000 sq ft upwards.
Lettings have taken place to MDA, part of the European logistics giant Stacci Group, which has taken 185,000 sq ft.
Royal Sanders, the highly-diversified global business specialising in personal care products, has taken 80,000 sq ft.
And Tek-Dry Systems, a specialist supplier of high-quality thermal process and ancillary equipment, took a pre let of 60,000 sq ft prior to completion.
This complements Euro Garages £6million roadside fuel and shop facility with leading convenience and retail brands BP, Spar, Subway, Greggs, Starbucks and KFC.
In the summer a 150-bedroom Hampton by Hilton Hotel will open next to the retail facility.
Caroline James, director at Trevor Dawson, said: “The completion of the first phase clearly demonstrates the Issa family’s commitment to the local area and economic growth in the North West. It has been an exciting 12 months which will continue with the next phase of development”.
The main contractor for the Frontier project is Nelson-based Barnfield Construction. Preston-based PWA Planning successfully advised Monte Blackburn on the latest ambitious development at the 90-acre business park.
Gemma Newall, senior planner at PWA Planning, based in the Riversway area of the city, said: “These latest commercial developments will create further jobs and attract additional investment into the area and we’re proud to have supported them.”
With around one million sq ft of new warehouse and industrial space being created, Frontier Park represents the area’s biggest employment and commercial development for decades. It is expected to have created up to 2,000 jobs by the time it is completed.
Enjoyed this? Read more from Ged Henderson


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With the COVID-19 scare all over, Peter Tseng says bookings at his restaurants in Kochi and Gurugram have halved the last week. Bad times need drastic measures, and menus are being changed and marketing is on overdrive to revive faith in public dining. Across outlets, the staff has been briefed about the precautionary measures to prevent transmission. We sanitise the dining room before every meal session and have also placed hand sanitisers at various locations for easy access to our diners, says Tseng.
According to the National Restaurant Association of India, the Indian food industry employed over 7.2 million people in 2018-19. While there are no figures yet as to how COVID-19 has impacted the industry, cases of empty diners are coming to light. Small eateries whose clientele depend heavily on working professionals are the most affected. I run a small van for snacks and my main clientele is the office crowd. In the past week, I have had almost no customers. They say people are working from home, says G. Ram, 32, a food truck owner in Bengaluru.
Tseng says people aren’t as concerned about the choice of cuisine he serves as they are about who is serving and cooking it. One group had concerns that I am Chinese and was from China. It took a while to convince them that I am very much an Indian citizen by birth, he says.


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DA NANG — The Lotte Viet Nam Shopping company has invested US$30 million in building the Lotte Mart Da Nang, chairman of South Korea Lotte Group Shin Dong-bin said in a working visit in central Da Nang city.
The shopping centre, which began construction on an area of 10,000sq.m last year, will be the third centre of its kind in Viet Nam after HCM City.
The group plans to increase its investment in Da Nang with a series projects of resorts, duty free shops at Da Nang Airport and cruise service in coming years.
As scheduled, the group will set to build a 10-ha entertainment and shopping centre – the biggest in Da Nang. It's expected that the Lotte Group will invest in 25 projects in Viet Nam by 2018.-VNS


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The message told me that my government requires VAT to be paid, even though I bought this 2 years ago. Should you pay up?
Most governments promise to reform the tax system to reduce costs and increase compliance. So how would it help to switch business income to quarterly returns, instead of annual?
The deadlines which the European Commission has set itself to fix the broken VAT system are all mañana and make-believe
Using Acrobat for filing your tax return is like sandpaper for cleaning your teeth.
Over the next couple of years, the EU is set to shut down as many as 100,000 small businesses across Europe.


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Deckers’ Q3 sales up 40 percent, lowers guidance on Q4 and beyond
Deckers reported a 40 percent jump in third-quarter profit on strong sales, but expects fourth-quarter and next year’s earnings to be below analyst expectations. The company said its strong results were primarily driven by robust sales of UGG footwear, coupled with a significant gross margin improvement and control of operating expenses.
Net earnings came in at $8.2 million, or $0.63 per diluted share, compared to net earnings of $5.8 million, or $0.46 per diluted share, last year. Net sales increased 24 percent to $69.2 million compared to $55.8 million in the same period last year.
Teva sales for the third quarter were $9.7 million compared to $11.9 million in the same period last year, a decrease of 18.4 percent, due to lower domestic closeout sales and lower international sales compared to the third quarter last year.
UGG sales increased 46.2 percent to $57.3 million for the third quarter compared to $39.2 million for the same period last year, driven by strong sales across the board.
Simple third-quarter sales decreased 54.4 percent to $2.1 million compared to $4.6 million last year. Deckers said the third quarter of 2004 included approximately $2.7 million of sales of the Simple sheep offering, a program which it discontinued in late 2004.
Sales for the Internet and catalog retailing business, which are included in the brand sales numbers, aggregated approximately $3.4 million for the third quarter of 2005 compared to $5.4 million for the third quarter of 2004 due to the greater availability of UGG product at local retailers in 2005.
For the fourth quarter, Deckers said earnings are expected to be in the $0.60 to $0.64 per share range, on sales of $72 million to $75 million — significantly lower than analyst expectations of $0.83 per share on revenue of $80.6 million.
Decker’s full-year forecast was also below expectations at $2.13 to $2.17 per share, with sales of $246 million to $249 million. Analysts are looking for annual earnings of $2.33 per share on sales of $254.6 million.
The company also provided 2006 guidance, forecasting earnings of $2 to $2.15 per share on sales of $255 million to $265 million. The forecast is lower than analyst estimates for earnings of $2.58 per share on sales of $274.1 million.
Deckers said its made the strategic decision to reinvest in its business in 2006 in order to better position the company for the long term, including investments in marketing and advertising, development of its international and retail infrastructures, and investment in product development and design.
Deckers stock tumbled $3.77, or nearly 18 percent, to $17.47 in after-hours trading on Nasdaq. Additionally, the day after Deckers’ report, the company was downgraded by both RBC Capital Markets — from “outperform” to “sector perform” — and Lazard Freres — from “buy” to “hold.”
Columbia’s Q3 U.S. sales down 7.4 percent
Third-quarter net income for Columbia Sportswear (Nasdaq: COLM), parent of Mountain Hardwear, was down 3 percent due to lower outerwear and footwear sales, offset by increases in sportswear. Columbia earned $66.5 million, or $1.74 per share, compared with $68.6 million, or $1.68 per share, during the same period last year. Earnings per share in the latest quarter are based on 38.1 million average shares outstanding, down from 40.9 million shares in the year-ago period.
Sales totaled $409.8 million, down about 1 percent from $415.8 million last year. The company said its income taxes for the quarter were reduced by $5.6 million after an audit. Analysts had expected earnings of $1.55 per share on sales of $402.1 million.
Compared to the third quarter of 2004, other international sales increased 16.5 percent to $50.2 million, European sales increased 5.6 percent to $62.1 million, Canadian sales increased 6.3 percent to $52.6 million, and U.S. sales decreased 7.4 percent to $244.9 million for the third quarter of 2005.
For the third quarter of 2005, sportswear sales increased 16.0 percent to $125.7 million, footwear sales increased 1.8 percent to $63.8 million, equipment sales increased 5.9 percent to $1.8 million, accessories sales decreased 8.1 percent to $17.1 million, and outerwear sales decreased 10.2 percent to $201.4 million compared to the third quarter of 2004.
“As expected from the fall sales order backlog reported last April, third quarter outerwear and footwear sales were disappointing, offset by increases in sportswear,” Tim Boyle, Columbia’s president and CEO, said. “The competitive environment in our core U.S. outerwear business is intense, and U.S. retail consolidation continues to impact our business. Also as expected, third quarter European sales were weak in our German and Scandinavian markets. We are making investments in these areas to strengthen the core Columbia brand and improve our performance in these key markets.”
This period’s spring backlog increased 5.8 percent to $359.3 million, compared to $339.5 million at Sept. 30, 2004. Consolidated product backlog was $588.8 million, an increase of 0.5 percent compared to consolidated product backlog of $586.0 million on Sept.30, 2004.
“Orders for spring products increased in all geographic regions, but growth did not meet our expectations. Footwear orders in the U.S. and Europe were the biggest disappointment in the spring order book,” Boyle said. “While the timing of the receipt of some orders crossed into the fourth quarter, footwear orders were primarily impacted by intense competition.”
For the fourth quarter, Columbia is expecting revenue to edge up about 1 percent and net income to decline 18 percent to 21 percent. For the year, the company reaffirmed its prior guidance of sales growth of 5 percent and a decline in net income of 9 percent to 10 percent.
Columbia’s shares dropped as much as $2.46 on the news for a low of $41.97, finally closing at $42.91 on Oct. 27. On Oct. 28, Columbia was downgraded by Prudential from “neutral” to “underweight.”
International sales hold Timberland up, while U.S. revenue declines
Timberland’s (NYSE: TBL) third-quarter profit edged up 1 percent as strong international sales helped offset a decline in local markets, but its shares dropped on disappointing revenue.
Quarterly profit rose to $69.2 million, or $1.02 per share, from $68.6 million, or $0.96 per share, last year. Excluding a $2.5 million pretax charge for restructuring its Caribbean manufacturing operations, the company would have reported earnings of $1.05 per share.
Sales during the third-quarter increased 2.5 percent, to $505.9 million, from $493.9 million, driven by gains in Europe and Asia, the company said. Revenue from operations in the United States declined 6.1 percent due to a drop in sales in women’s casual footwear and boots. Foreign exchange rate changes reduced third quarter 2005 revenue by $0.3 million or 0.1 percent.
“Timberland delivered record revenue and profits in the third quarter as benefits from our global portfolio enabled us to offset pressure in the U.S. with continued strong expansion internationally,” Jeffrey Swartz, Timberland’s president and CEO, said. “While we work through challenges in key businesses, such as U.S. boots, we continue on track toward delivering solid full year financial gains.”
Third-quarter results were supported by global gains in footwear, it said. Global footwear revenues grew 2.8 percent to $399.0 million, driven by growth in kids’, outdoor performance, men’s casual and Timberland PRO series categories. Apparel and accessories revenue increased 0.1 percent to $101.5 million, as gains in international markets offset softer U.S. retail sales results.
Global wholesale revenue expanded 3.1 percent to $420.2 million, supported by strong gains in international markets. Worldwide consumer direct revenue declined 0.8 percent to $85.7 million, reflecting a 3.2 percent decrease in global comparable store sales.
For the fourth quarter of this year, the company said it is targeting flat revenue growth and a high single-digit decline in operating profits, reflecting current trends in the U.S. business, the overall consumer climate and plans to invest in brand building activities for the holiday season.
“We do anticipate continued growth challenges in Timberland’s U.S. business in the first half of 2006, which will contribute to likely pressure on first half 2006 revenue and earnings,” Swartz said.
During the quarter, Timberland bought back 1.5 million shares at a total cost of $50.3 million. In August, its board of directors approved a new 2.0 million share repurchase authorization. Timberland currently has 3.1 million shares remaining under existing share repurchase authorization programs.
Timberland’s stock fell as much as 14 percent to a 52-week low, closing at $27.40 on the New York Stock Exchange.
Amer Sports’s winter division up 2 percent, sports instruments down 5 percent
Amer Sports (AMEAS.HE) net sales increased 4 percent — 5 percent in local currency terms — for the first nine months of 2005. Sales for the sports instruments division which includes Suunto was down 5 percent in local currency, while its winter sports division had a robust third quarter, up 2 percent in local currency during the January to September period.
Amer’s net sales were Euro 805.2 million (USD $977.4 million) for the nine months, compared to last year’s Euro 774.9 million (USD $940.6 million). Earnings before interest and taxes totaled Euro 69.1 million (USD $83.8 million), while earnings before taxes were Euro 65.5 million (USD $79.5 million). Earnings per share were Euro 0.63 (USD $0.76).
For the 2005 three month-period of July to September, consolidated net sales rose by 5 percent in local currency terms and totaled Euro 294.2 million (USD $357.1 million), up from Euro 278.4 million (USD $337.9 million) last year. Earnings before interest and taxes were Euro 35.5 million (USD $43.1 million), and earnings before taxes were Euro 34.7 million (USD $42.1 million).
For the first nine months of 2005, the sports instruments division had net sales of Euro 55.0 million (USD $66.7 million), compared to Euro 57.7 million (USD $70.0 million) last year. Sales declined by 3 percent in Europe, Middle East and Africa, and by 11 percent in the Americas, but were up 11 percent in Asia pacific. EBIT declined by 26 percent to Euro 4.1 million (USD $4.9 million) from 2004’s Euro 5.5 million (USD $6.6 million). Sales of wrist-top computers declined 4 percent.
In the wintersports division, which includes Atomic, the nine-month period had net sales of Euro 128.1 million (USD $155.5 million), compared to Euro 125.1 million (USD $151.8 million) in 2004. Sales rose by 9 percent in Europe, Middle East and Africa. In the Americas, sales fell 21 percent, partly due to poor weather conditions in the first part of year. EBIT came in at Euro 3.2 million (USD $3.8 million), down 65 percent from Euro 9.1 million (USD $11.0 million). Amer said the major reason for the decline was waning sales in North America. Booked orders for the remainder of the year are on par with the corresponding period of the previous year, it said.
In 2005, Amer’s comparable net sales in local currencies — exclusive of recently acquired Salomon — are expected to grow by 5 percent compared with last year. As of Oct. 19, the sale of Salomon was complete and will be consolidated into Amer’s figures as of Oct. 1, 2005. Amer said Salomon will substantially increase its net sales in the last quarter of this year, but estimates Salomon won’t significantly affect its earnings per share for the 2005 fiscal year.
(Conversion of Euros into U.S. dollars is for information only, is not necessarily relative to earnings, and is based on the currency rate as of Oct. 28.)
Gander forewarns of lowered guidance, flat comp sales
Citing the uncertainty of the economy, Gander Mountain (Nasdaq: GMTN) reported that it no longer expects to meet its previously disclosed guidance for revenue of at least $850 million, flat comparable store sales and pretax income of at least $16 million for the fiscal year 2005.
Gander said its sales hit is a result of higher energy prices and the persistently warm weather across much of the country. The company expects that same-store sales in the third quarter will decline 9 percent to 10 percent versus the third quarter of fiscal 2004. It noted that its sales and gross margin in the third quarter have been disappointing.
It’s new store opening plans for 2006 are more conservative in light of the economic uncertainty, which it believes has a greater impact on specialty retailers that rely on discretionary consumer spending. “In 2006, as we surpass the 100-store mark, we expect to be in a position to realize more of the benefits of scale inherent in retailing and will focus on leveraging those opportunities for operating improvements, ” said Mark Baker, president and CEO.
The company expects to report third quarter earnings on Nov. 16.
Gander was downgraded on Oct. 26 by Piper Jaffray from “market perform” to “underperform.”
Wellman loss narrows for Q3
Wellman (NYSE: WLM) reported a net loss of $9.6 million, or $0.30 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $10.7 million, or $0.34 per diluted share for the same quarter in 2004. The third-quarter loss includes previously announced pretax charges of $8.0 million arising from the settlement of lawsuits alleging that the company engaged in price fixing relating to polyester staple fiber and $7.4 million for costs relating to damages caused by hurricane Katrina. The combined after-tax effect of both charges is $10.0 million, or $0.32 per diluted share.
“Our third quarter 2005 results were an improvement over 2nd quarter results despite the disruption to our operations caused by the hurricanes in the Gulf,” said Tom Duff, Wellman’s chairman and CEO. “Our Adjusted EBITDA of $33.9 million in the third quarter 2005 is approximately a $12 million improvement over the second quarter of 2005. PET resin sales had begun improving before hurricane Katrina and we were able to utilize existing inventory and higher than normal production at our Palmetto Plant to offset some of the lost production from the Pearl River Plant.”
It expects to resume PET resin production at the Pearl River facility the week of Oct. 31, 2005, and to have both lines operational by the end of November 2005.
Cabela’s Q3 net income down slightly
Citing higher fuel prices and the effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita on sales of its outdoor equipment, Cabela’s (NYSE: CAB) saw a light decrease in third-quarter net income to $16.3 million, or $0.25 per diluted share, compared to $16.5 million, or $0.25 per diluted share, for the same period a year ago. Other factors in the decrease were the timing of promotional events and additional store pre-opening expenses.
Total revenue for the third quarter of fiscal 2005 increased 12 percent to another record for Cabela’s of $429.8 million compared to $383.8 million for the same period last year.
During the third quarter of fiscal 2005, direct revenue was similar to last year at $220.2 million. Total retail revenue increased 23.1% to $173.0 million, while same-store sales decreased 8.7%. Financial services revenue increased 46 percent to $32.5 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2005.
The company said it is confident in modest growth in net income in the fourth quarter, representing a change from its previous annual guidance.
GSI postpones Q3 earnings report, shares drop
GSI Commerce (Nasdaq: GSIC) canceled its planned earnings release on Oct. 26 and forecast a bigger loss for the third quarter than expected, sending its shares tumbling more than 35 percent. The company cited potential accounting discrepancies and a problem in its bookkeeping system for the delay.
Shares of the company dropped as low as $6.55 to $12.50 on the Nasdaq, then settled to close at $16.46 — $2.59 lower than the previous day’s closing. The stock has traded between $9.08 and $21.25 over the past 52 weeks.
GSI’s preliminary results, which don’t include changes it could make in light of its accounting issues, call for a wider-than-expected loss of $4.2 million to $4.5 million, or about $0.10 per share. In July, GSI forecast a loss of $2.5 million to $3 million.
GSI said the estimated profit shortfall stems from higher costs for partner launches than it anticipated, and to a lesser extent, delays in the actual launches. Net revenue for the third quarter is expected to range from $84 million to $85 million, versus an earlier view of $79 million to $84 million. It also lowered its full-year profit to between $5.5 million to $6.5 million, down from previous expectations of $9.5 million to $10.5 million. GSI cautioned that its actual results could turn out differently.
The company said that in August, its internal auditor found potential discrepancies with certain credits the company recorded for its 2004 fourth quarter, but which possibly should have been recorded in 2005. The credits amount to about $283,000. In addition, GSI said it has found a problem in its system for reconciling its accounts payable and couldn’t validate its general ledger as a result. GSI said it could take an estimated charge of up to $300,000, or a gain of up to $1.2 million, related to the issue, depending on how its ongoing review of the issue goes.
GSI said it is aiming to release its third-quarter results by Nov. 10
West Marine Q3 earnings down 71 percent
Slammed by the hurricane season, West Marine (Nasdaq: WMAR) reported a 71 percent drop in third-quarter earnings and lowered its profit outlook for the full year.
Earnings fell to $2 million, or $0.09 per share, down significantly from $6.9 million, or $0.32 per share, last year. Net sales were $188.6 million from $183.1 million. Analysts had expected earnings of $0.15 per share on revenue of $188.7 million. Same-store sales for the third quarter decreased 1.2 percent, versus a decrease in same-store sales of 7.7 percent reported for the same period a year ago.
The company said it was deeply disappointed by its third-quarter results, and the hurricanes in the Southeast this year hurt consumer spending more than expected. It temporarily closed 68 of its stores because of hurricanes Dennis, Katrina, Ophelia and Rita, and four stores are still closed. The company also said higher fuel prices, along with “President Bush’s appeal for lower fuel consumption,” are significantly curtailing boat usage, which has reduced customer traffic at its stores.
West Marine said it expects lower sales this year as a result, of about $685 million, compared with $683 million last year. The company cut its full-year forecast to a range of $0.35 to $0.40, down from its previous estimate of $0.70 to $0.75 per share.
Its shares dropped $2.92, or 18.5 percent, to a new 52-week low of $12.83 in morning trading on the Nasdaq, below a previous low of $13.52 from earlier this month.
For more information about these companies or their financial reports, as well as to view stock prices updated every 15 minutes, visit the SNEWSÂ® Stock Market Updates. Click on: www.outsidebusinessjournal.com/cgi-bin/snews/stock_report.html


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- Citing 'cultural shift,' Porsche discontinues last diesels
Citing 'cultural shift,' Porsche discontinues last dieselsby Justin King
The company has stopped building the Macan S Diesel and Panamera 4S Diesel.
Porsche has apparently discontinued its last two diesel models as parent Volkswagen Group continues its pivot toward electrification.
Citing a "cultural shift" among its customers, the company has stopped building the Macan S Diesel and Panamera 4S Diesel, a spokesperson confirmed to Autocar.
Aside from waning demand for oil burners, the company also admitted the decision was also related to "another software update" and ongoing talks with authorities. The comments are viewed as evidence that the automaker has decided not to invest in further development necessary to keep the fleet in compliance with stricter emissions regulations.
A Porsche executive recently confirmed plans to launch a second all-electric model following the Mission E, expecting half of the brand's sales to come from electrified models by 2025. The second EV is rumored to be an SUV similar to the Macan.


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Chinese students exhibit fan designs at the Louvre
Traditional Chinese fans with a contemporary flair have been displayed at the Louvre in France, following a collaboration between Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University students and fan designer Chun Sheng of Suzhou Sheng Feng Cultural and Creative Development.
Four students from the Department of Industrial Design at XJTLU worked with the Suzhou-based company to create innovative conceptual designs for traditional Chinese fans that were selected to appear in The Louvre’s International Heritage Fair exhibition in October.
The students worked alongside fan designer Sheng, a master of traditional fan making techniques that are listed by UNESCO as part of China’s intangible cultural heritage, to create the unique designs.
“XJTLU students are full of creative ideas,” said Sheng of her experience. “I really enjoyed working with them.”
Academic Dr Cheng-Hung Lo said the fans were developed as part of an industry collaboration studio module in the BEng Industrial Design programme, which exposes students to the opportunities and constrains of real-life design projects.
“The company were highly impressed by our students’ design work during the semester’s studio module,” said Dr Lo.
“That’s why they invited us to participate in their exhibition at the Louvre.
“Through working with Master Sheng, our students gained experience of what it is actually like to work as a designer – negotiating, compromising, and working together with the client to realise a product.”
Having learned first-hand about ancient fan production techniques, the students made use of XJTLU’s advanced equipment such as a laser cutter to create unique fan designs combining the traditional with the contemporary.
Student Xingjian Hu said he was excited to have designs he has contributed to on display at the prestigious exhibition.
“I think simply copying traditional designs is not the best way to protect intangible cultural heritage,” Hu says.
“What’s important for designers like me is to capture the essence of the Suzhou fan rather than just the shape.
“If we combine modern design concepts and techniques with Suzhou fans or other traditional art work, we not only protect intangible cultural heritage but also communicate traditional Chinese culture to younger generations and international audiences.
“Chinese designers should try to move away from copying other cultures so we can better define Chinese ideas of beauty.”
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), a partnership between Xi'an Jiaotong University and the University of Liverpool, UK and located in Suzhou, is an international university that aims to produce creative thinkers and global citizens. All programmes are delivered in English.
Visit the XJTLU website for more information.


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Sure is an insurance technology company that allows global brands and carriers to build embedded insurance products on its SaaS infrastructure to distribute, service, and scale digital insurance. Customers include Farmers Insurance, Chubb, Intuit, Betterment, and Carvana. The company, which is headquartered in Santa Monica, California with offices around the globe, has more than doubled its revenue and the size of its team in the last 12 months.
Part 1 – Assessing the Environment and Setting the Focus (part 2 – Power of Bank Networks) © Starpoint LLP, 2022. No part of this …
Consumers and businesses are inching closer to a cashless world. Closer, but not all the way, and that presents some challenges for banks.
The first principle you learn as a Product Manager is a simple one: how to say no. Steve Jobs famous...
Don’t assume there's a plan. You're much better off assuming the world is on fire.
Half of Americans haven't saved enough to cover three months of expenses. Personal finance expert Orman says everyone should have 12 months of emergency savings, …
Investors avoid risk assets during a crisis, but excessive cash sitting in financial institutions could also be good for the cryptocurrencies.
The vibes coming off of fintech investors today are very different than the ones we felt earlier this year.
The Blockchain Economy Istanbul 2022 summit made one thing clear: The positivity of the crypto ecosystem remains unfazed by the turbulent market shakeouts.
It’s a mistake to assume that potential customers recall long-ago sales interactions. You must refresh their memories.


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Teacher for the day Town Hall became Teacher for the Day recently.
How does that work? That’s what 80 second graders from Willow Spring Elementary School asked at a recent visit to the Fuquay-Varina Town Hall. Representatives from public utilities, police and the public works department explained how the town provides services to more than 19,000 citizens.
The kids were fascinated, inquisitive and courteous.
“School visits are a favorite thing here at Town...
Local roasters boogie to the beans It wasn’t long ago that owners of Stick Boy Bread Company in Fuquay-Varina Katie and Josh Dies remember trying to break into the business. Wholesalers took a chance on the couple and business took off.
When a regular customer, Dave McCreery, brought up locally roasted Boogie Bean Coffee Roasters and Katie got to meet the owners and husband and wife team, Kevin and Ali Littlewood, it was a great match.
“If we’re in a spot where we can help...
Natural health fair to be held Saturday Free, fun, informative.
On April 27, The Vine Health and Nutrition Shoppe will hold a natural health fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn more about natural health and resources. Many small, local businesses will gather to showcase different services, products and opportunities available to meet a variety of healthy living needs.
There will be free health screenings, free kids haircuts, demonstrations, chair massages, raffles and free sample...
Civitas Media helps connect businesses, consumers with MyOwn Apps The Fuquay-Varina Independent is opening new doors to its advertisers, their current customers and a whole world of new ones, all with the stroke of a fingertip.
And it’s been done through MyOwn Apps, a new high-tech advertising venue that offers advertisers a way to reach on-the-go consumers looking for information fast and in the palm of their hand.
With the help of mobile experts at Civitas Media, the Independent’s parent company, a bu...
Police Reports Nov. 25-Dec. 1
Lynn Louise Rench, 22, of Fuquay-Varina was arrested Nov. 25 on a driving while impaired charge.
Carmen Delisha Heggie, 23, of Holly Springs was arrested Nov. 25 on a ...
Police reports Feb. 12-18
Charles Thomas Mangum, 76, of Fuquay-Varina was arrested Feb. 12 on breaking and entering of a residence, larceny, and larceny after breaking and entering charges.
Police reports Feb. 5-11
An arrest was made in a Feb. 5 incident reported off Broad St. allegedly involving possession of less than a half ounce of marijuana.
Timothy Michael Duggan, 36, of Fuqua...
Police reports Dec. 21-31
Michael Anthony Beckwith, 54, of Fuquay-Varina was arrested Dec. 24 on assault on a female and possessing or concealing equipment or paraphernalia charges.
An arrest was...
Police Reports Nov. 13-19
Arrests Vickie Belinda Nealy, 45, of Proctorville was arrested Nov. 14 on a larceny charge.
Ashlee Brooke Selin, 26, of Willow Spring was arrested Nov. 17 on an embezzlement ch...


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EAST NEW YORK, Brooklyn (PIX11) — Families lined up to receive backpacks filled with school supplies. Good Shepherd Services, a nonprofit group in East New York, held its third annual book bag giveaway.
The cost of school supplies is at an all-time high. Many families struggle to make it happen. Organizers said the need is greater than ever before. The event’s goal is to ensure every child gets what they need to succeed at the start of the school year.
Deborah Squires from East New York is getting free new book bags packed with school supplies for her two daughters. No one is more excited than her three-year-old, starting preschool in the fall. The sisters turned the sidewalk into a catwalk, showing off their new bookbags.
Squires is not frustrated alone about how much going back to school costs for supplies.
The National Retail Federation, a trade association that advocates for retailers nationwide, surveyed 7800 consumers between June 30 and July 6 of this year. According to the annual back-to-class survey from the NRF, families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $890.07 on back-to-school items this year, approximately $25 more than last year’s record of $864.35 and a new high. Since 2003, NRF has conducted a comprehensive survey on back-to-class shopping trends.
Demond Pearson is the Vice president of community centers for Good Shepherd Services. Right now, he said, there is a critical need for families living paycheck to paycheck. The cost of going back to school is just too much. Good Shepherd Services has events like this all year round all across the city. They also offer job training and after-school programs.
Kersha Maximin from East New York said all three of her kids got new back bags.
There will be more school supply giveaways and events coming soon. On Aug. 26, the giveaway will be from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Red Hook Houses in Brooklyn. Along with Sept. 9 in the Bronx at the Monterey Cornerstone Community Center from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.


text: The Mobisante handheld ultrasound device, which features a pocket-sized probe that connects via USB to a smartphone–a first–is featured in MIT’s Technology Review. Co-founded by David Zar and Microsoft alumnus Sailesh Chutani, it is currently beta testing in nine locations and won one of this year’s ‘Best Mobile Healthcare Device’ awards at the Mobile Health Expo. So far funding has remained lean; according to the article 40% self-funded and 60% funding from potential customers like community clinics and hospitals which find their $5000-10,000 price tag–20% of the cost of a standard ultrasound–appealing. Awaiting FDA approval to go to market next year. Ultrasound gets more portable. NEW—CNN 4 minute interview with Sailesh Chutani.


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Diplomatic relations between the
Since November 2013 – NurbakhRustemov is Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the
Since December 10 2014 – Ilia Psaltirov is Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the
December 1-2, 2010 President of Macedonia George Ivanov participated in the OSCE Summit in Astana.
July 1-3, 2012 President of Macedonia George Ivanov paid a state visit to Astana.
May 22-24, 2013 Macedonian delegation headed by the Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski participated in the 6th Astana Economic Forum.
August 28, 2014 President of Kazakhstan NursultanNazarbayev met with President of Macedonia George Ivanov in
Trade and economic cooperation
In 2017 bilateral trade between Kazakhstan and Macedonia amounted to 2,6 million USD.


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Posted on June 05, 2019 in News
Price's Milk is now the only milk we carry. We're also offering it at an everyday low price of $2.99 for a gallon.
Posted on January 23, 2019 in News
So many families are being affected by the current government shutdown, and we're doing our best to help. Click more to learn about the $5 Shutdown Package.
Posted on August 30, 2017 in News
Through September 30, 2017, hot foods may be purchased with SNAP EBT benefits in the State of Texas. Read on for complete details.
Posted on May 11, 2016 in News
...our new parking lot is under construction. And, we're so excited!
Posted on March 23, 2016 in NewsCommunity Involvement
Food City recently had an opportunity help a local family. We were proud to partner with Rebuilding Together, Home Depot, and Telemundo.
Posted on June 03, 2015 in NewsHolidaysPromotionsBakery
National Donut Day is Friday, June 5, 2015, and you best believe we're celebrating! These rings of delight will be on special, so "donut" miss out!
Posted on June 02, 2015 in News
An egg shortage is causing egg prices to rise. Find out more about what's causing the shortage and how you'll be affected.
Posted on March 31, 2015 in NewsCommunity Involvement
Food City has partnered once again with the Children's Miracle Network to benefit the El Paso Children's Hospital. At each of our stores, you can buy a balloon for $1 and all proceeds go to help making miracles happen for children and their families.
Posted on March 11, 2015 in NewsProduce
Food City Supermarkets has recently partnered with Sol y Tierra Growers to offer a variety of locally-grown produce in each of our stores. Customers can now walk into a Food City and purchase produce that was in the ground the day before.
Posted on February 12, 2015 in News
For over a year, our customers at our Fox Plaza location have gone through quite a challenging construction maze to get to us. We appreciate your patience as TXDot finishes the roundabouts. With the recent opening of the 2nd lane in the roundabout, we've seen some confused drivers. Although not traffic experts, we'll do our best to offer a few tips on how to drive in the roundabout.


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BMW recently unveiled its new M3 CRT, which puts the companies new carbon fiber technologies on display. The limited-edition sedan is based on the BMW M3 Saloon and archives a 3.5 kilograms per horsepower weight-to-power ratio. Along with a lightweight 3,483-pound body, the M3 CRT boasts a customary M high-revving V8 engine and 450 horsepower, which power it from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
The production run will be very limited on the M3 CRT with only 67 units coming out of the BMW M GmbH factory. A official price has not been announced but it’s expected to be upwards of $150,000, and possibly closer to $200,000.
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- BMW quietly reintroduces diesel-powered 5-Series to lineup
- BMW explains how the first-ever X2 will become king of the urban jungle
- Fashionably late, the 2019 BMW i8 Roadster strolls into the Los Angeles show


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Vote means from July 1 roaming charges will be capped at 24p per minute for calls, 7p per minute for texts and 58p per megabyte for data
Roaming charges within the European Union will fall significantly from July after the region’s parliament voted favour of imposing stringent caps.
After July 1 operators will only be able to charge 29 euro cents (24p) a minute to make a call, 8 cents (7p) a minute to receive a call, 9 cents (8p) to send a SMS message and 70 cents a megabyte (58p) for data usage.
The cuts are part of the EU’s plans to reduce the difference in charges between domestic mobile use and usage by customers visiting other countries within the EU to almost nothing by 2015.
Further cuts are scheduled to come into force over the next two years, including a reduction in the cost per MB for data to 20 cents by 2014.
The EU also plans to allow consumers to pick a separate operator for roaming without changing SIM cards from 2014.
The changes have been welcomed by consumer organisations and MEPs, who have previously accused operators of making huge profits on roaming charges.
EU rapporteur and MEP Angelika Niebler said: “Parliament has succeeded in its call for cheaper roaming prices for consumers, and in particular for data roaming.
“In addition, from July 2014, consumers will be able to choose an operator other than their national operator for roaming services. The new rules will also help to open up the market to new entrants and so increase competition.”
However, operators have complained that regulatory interference on roaming and other areas such as mobile termination rates are hindering their ability to invest.


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MS scrips slide on low Vista sales estimates
“Some of the Windows revenue forecasts I’ve seen are overly aggressive,” Ballmer told analysts in New York. “You shouldn’t think of a huge surge in fiscal year ‘08 relative to ‘07. There are a few who think we are going to do so much better than PC growth.”
The stock fell 1.6% at open on Friday. Investors expect Vista to propel sales at the world’s biggest software maker for the next 18 months.
Microsoft shares fell 46 cents to $29 in early trading on the Nasdaq from a close of 29.46 dollar on Friday. They have gained 9.6% in the past year.
Vista marks Microsoft’s first new PC operating system in five years. Ballmer said many corporate customers have already paid for upgrades through multiyear licenses, and there will be more consumer upgrades in the current year than in 2008.
Microsoft spent $450 million to release Vista and Office 2007, and that won’t be needed next year, letting the company spend more on Web efforts without boosting overall expenses, analysts said.


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TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) -- Some changes are in store for the BancorpSouth Arena as construction workers begin the process of giving the building a brand new look.
"We need the building to look fresh. We wanted it to blend in better with the other facilities that are downtown. When we opened 19 years ago we were "it" and since then a lot of new things have sprung up and we kind of don't fit the architectural mold of everyone else," said Todd Hunt, director of the BancorpSouth Arena.
Renovations are in store both inside and outside of the Arena to repair damage and to give the building an overall update.
"We are refinishing the exterior of the building, redoing all the surfaces that are out there, and giving it a new look- a fresh look for our 20th anniversary. We are also going around the inside and repainting everything there as well," said Hunt.
A new LED sign will also be on the list of improvements.
Hunt says the arena welcomes nearly 250,000 guests a year.
The renovations should be complete in August.