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LFW to integrate Indian fashion in global arena
March 22, 2008 - India
Lakmé Fashion Week, which has placed Mumbai on the fashion map of the world, announced this year’s line up of talented designers for its Fall/Winter Season ’08.
At an event held at Mumbai’s Taj President, Lakmé’s Anil Chopra and IMG’s Tim Wright & Vikram Raizada revealed names of 57 designers and 12 sponsors for this season.
This year’s Lakme Fashion Week will commence on 29th March 2008 and go on till 2nd March 2008 at Mumbai’s National Center of Performing Arts (NCPA).
57 designers from across the country will participate in the event. With an exciting line – up of talented designers, the event will make a major impact on the Indian fashion scene. This season, will also see renowned designer Wendell Rodricks presenting the ‘Lakme Grand Finale’ show, at Lakmé Fashion Week.
Also announced were this season’s sponsors & partners for the event. Gitanjali
, Allen Solly
, AZA, Park Avenue, Chivas, Westside
, Peroni, DHL
, NCPA, TAJ President and Tag Media Network will be sharing the stage with Lakme & Lux to integrate India into the global fashion world.
Fashion is the most culturally potent force that binds everyone. Renowned buyers and journalists from around the world, including a contingent of 19 of the world’s most envied fashion stalwarts, will be present at the premier fashion extravaganza of India.
Making their presence felt at this fashion business extravaganza will be the likes of New York based Elsye Kroll of Coterie, Albert Morris of Browns, Pamela & Lydia Pearson and Tiziana Cardini of La Rinascente.
Suzy Menkes – Fashion editor International Herald Tribune, an officer of the British Empire and a chevalier of the Legion of Honor –France, will be visiting Lakme Fashion Week along with Carole Sabas of Vogue France amongst others.
Lakmé Fashion Week is known for being a great launch pad for emerging designers and continues to define the future of fashion. This is apparent by the fact that 50% of last season’s Emerging designers have moved on to becoming this season’s regular designers.
This season’s success stories include GenNext designers such as Kallol Datta and Rimzim Dadu who have graduated to Emerging Designers.
Anuj Sharma, Abdul Halder, Nachiket Barve, Raakesh Agarwal, Vineet Bahl, Urvashi Kaur and Ruchi Mehta have stepped up from being Emerging designers to Regular designers.
Lakme Fashion Week’s continued initiative to send Indian designers abroad to participate in foreign fashion weeks, has also attracted a lot of international interest in our designers.
ANNOUNCEMENT: Spring/Summer 2009
Lakme Fashion Week, is also pleased to announce dates for the following season (Spring/Summer 2009). This will be held from 20th to 24th October 2008, at NCPA.
Anil Chopra, Vice President, Lakmé Unilever said, “Lakmé’s legacy of beauty and fashion continues with yet another trendsetting season of Lakmé Fashion Week. What makes this season extremely interesting is the inclusion of retail in our focus.
We plan to make fashion more accessible – we are yet again defining the future of fashion. Also, the world is sitting up and taking notice of us, with a fabulous international contingent lined up for this season.
We have diligently been trying to integrate Indian fashion in the global arena and I’m glad to announce that our hard work is paying off with a host of international buyers, media and people associated with the international fashion world!” he added.
Tim Wright, Managing Director, IMG said “Lakmé Fashion Week is supported by various sponsors who will be intensely associated with the event. Sponsors like Gitanjali, Allen Solly, Aza, Chivas, Peroni.
We have new support in the form of retail superstar Westside and prestigious giants such as Park Avenue and DHL. NCPA and Taj President continue to be venue and hospitality partners. Our sponsors are our biggest support and we aim to deliver on our part of the promise as well.”
Vikram Raizada, Head of Fashion, IMG, adds, “IMG has always believed in the philosophy of integrating India into the global fashion world.
Indian fashion is soon to be the world’s darling with international buyers like New York based Coterie, Browns, Tiziana Cardini and many other flocking to India’s most talked about fashion event – Lakmé Fashion Week!
And it doesn’t end there - Lakmé Fashion Week Fall Winter 08 provides a significant platform for modeling talent as IMG Models – IMG’s international model scouting agency comes calling for selecting the next international super model from India!.”


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The second quarter of this year was terrible for many companies in the 3D printing industry – the reason was obviously the economic lock-down related to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The leading representatives of the industry in the world, such as 3D Systems, Stratasys, Materialize or GE Additive, recorded several dozen percent drops in revenues as a result of suspension of investments by aviation, automotive and railway companies, which are usually the main recipients of solutions offered by additive technologies. However, this does not mean that everyone is doing equally badly – in another article I described the achievements of the American producer of photopolymer 3D printers – B9 Creations, now we will focus on the German producer of industrial 3D printing systems – SLM Solutions.
Throughout 2019, SLM Solutions hovered on the verge of collapse, recording historically bad sales and financial results. At the end of the year, many organizational changes took place in the company’s structures that were supposed to push it onto new tracks. Although the beginning of this year looked much better, at the beginning of April – in the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was wondering if it would not be the end for the producer who contributed to the development of the 3D printing industry? It turns out, however, that no – SLM Solutions is doing better and better, although it still loses money on operating activities. There is, however, quite clearly visible light in the tunnel …
In the first half of 2020, SLM Solutions posted revenues of € 31.1 million compared to € 16.3 million generated in the first half of 2019, representing over 90% year-on-year growth. The driving force behind these good results was sales of metal 3D printers, where revenues increased by as much as 154.8% – from € 9.3 million in 2019 to € 23.7 million this year. Most of the machines went to Europe, then to the USA and Asia.
Despite such great results, the company is still losing money. In the first half of 2020, SLM Solutions recorded a loss of € -12.4 million. This is still a big progress compared to the previous year, when in the same period the company recorded a loss of -30.4 million €.
SLM Solutions saw a sharp decline in revenues generated by the aviation industry, but at the same time, the pandemic has created opportunities to optimize supply chains in other industries. Assuming the pandemic does not worsen in the second half of 2020, the company forecasts revenue growth of at least +20%. The positive outlook is based on faster than expected recovery in the US and Asian markets.

domain: news


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A Carmarthen Butcher’s shop has won Welsh Butcher of the Year - and now owner Chris Rogers plans to launch a steak and gourmet burger bar in Pembrokeshire.
Winning in 2015 rounds off several years of consumer excellence as Rogers and Son were nominated and short listed in every year since 2012, the year that the shop opened.
"We are delighted to win Welsh Butcher’s Shop of the Year award, it means so much to us,” said Chris, one of Hybu Cig Cymru-Meat Promotion Wales’ Butcher’s Club members. “It was a huge risk in 2012 to leave a secure job in another butcher’s to embark on this adventure; businesses were still struggling from the recession.
“The risks and all the hard work are starting to pay off and this is only the beginning! We have a great team in place at Rogers & Son that all work very hard, and of course, without our loyal customers, we wouldn't be anywhere.”
Fellow Welsh finalists and fellow HCC Butcher’s Club members Bodnant Welsh Foods of Conwy and N.S. James and Son of Raglan were commended at the National Butcher’s Shop of the Year Awards held in Leeds.
“HCC is proud to sponsor this award and we’re all really delighted for Chris and Collette,” said HCC Market Development Manager Laura Pickup. “It is the icing on the cake for us that all three finalists are members of HCC’s Butcher’s Club, which has become a sign of customer assurance and quality wherever it appears.”
Chris’ shop trumpets traceability and proudly announces “From Pasture to Plate” to his customers at Lammas Street, Carmarthen. Since opening, Chris and Colette Rogers have enjoyed a busy time at the popular shop in the heart of west Wales. Stepping out on his own wasn’t a shot in the dark for Chris, as he had previously worked for 14 years at an award winning Pembrokeshire shop - and he had sound linage, with his grandfather’s family running a number of shops across the Rhymney Valley in the post war years.
Now they have won, Chris and Collette don’t plan to stand still. “Our future plans are to expand and open a steak and gourmet burger bar in Pembrokeshire...so watch this space!"


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Sydney Speed Zones In Busy Areas To Drop To 40 Km/h
Drivers will be forced to slow down around shopping centres, hospitals and public transport hubs.
What you need to know
- New low-speed zones will be enforced around Sydney's hospitals, shopping centres and public transport hubs
- The measure is part of a $1.9 billion road safety package over the next five years
- Dangerous country roads across the state are also in for a $600 million safety upgrade
Sydney drivers will be forced to slow down to 40 kilometres per hour outside train stations, shopping centres and hospitals in a bid to keep pedestrians safe.
News Corp reports the low-speed zones will be introduced across the city as part of a bigger $1.9 billion road safety package over the next five years to be included in the upcoming state Budget.
Targeted areas, where pedestrians are at a higher risk of being hit by a car, include outside Milsons Point Station and around the shopping district and bus interchange at Mosman.
Campbelltown and Seven Hills, in Sydney’s west, are also among the suburbs to first implement the low-speed zones.
Roads Minister Melissa Pavey said the government was investing in initiatives proven to lower the road toll.
“We see a lot of issues around high traffic areas -- shopping centres, hospitals -- and we want stronger focus there,” she told News Corp.
Dangerous country roads across the state are also in for a safety upgrade, with the NSW government announcing $600 million would be spent on installing wire rope barriers, tactile line markings and extra highway patrol officers in regional areas.
“Any loss of life in our roads is one too many and so this investment is about making our roads safe for everyone in NSW,” NSWTreasurer Dominic Perrottet said in a statement on Sunday.


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According to preliminary data, the average loading of hotels on New Year's Eve will be 79%.
(KZN.RU, December 17, Alena Miroshnichenko). Kazan entered the top 3 most popular cities in the country for traveling in the New Year holidays in 2019. The capital of Tatarstan is only behind of St. Petersburg and Moscow. Daria Sannikova, the director of the Tourism Promotion Committee, announced this today at the Business Monday.
The rating was made on the basis of booking hotels and apartments from December 29, 2018, to January 8, 2019, by tvil.ru booking service.
“On average, tourists book hotels for 3.5 nights. According to preliminary data of Kazan hotels, the average loading of hotels on New Year's Eve will be 79%, in the period from 2 to 7 of January – 62%. The booking process continues. Thus, we expect even larger loading of Kazan hotels”, noted the speaker.
All major hotels, restaurants, shopping centers prepare their New Year's programs and shows for their guests. All of them are aimed at creating a cheerful, warm, festive atmosphere, said D. Sannikova. In addition, a special calendar of interesting events has been developed in preparation for the New Year events. It contains the list of events that will be held in Kazan on New Year holidays and in 2019.


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Taiwan Solidarity Union Legislator Lai Shin-yuan (
Lai said the government officially opened its chocolate market to China's manufacturers in April, but chocolate products from China still do not follow the regulations of the Commodity Labeling Law (
According to the law, all products, be it local or imported, should contain information on their place of production. The Act Governing Food Sanitation (食品衛生管理法) also requires all products contain information in Chinese.
She accused the Department of Health (DOH) and the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) in charge of passing the buck over the past three months and failing to guarantee consumer rights and food safety in a press conference.
Chocolate from China accounted for 12.25 percent of the nation's chocolate imports in May, but most of the products in question lacked information on where they were produced on their wrappers, she said.
"Lack of information on the origin of production also violates protocols of both the World Trade Organization and the United Nations," she said.
She hoped the government would stand firm on the implementation of regulations as Taiwanese products exported to China are all required to be marked "made in Taiwan" by the Chinese government.
The Taiwan Confectionery, Biscuit and Flour-based Food Industry Association secretary general Sunny Chen (
"We can foresee that this problem will also occur with other products imported [from China]," he added.
Lai demanded the chief director of the DOH's Bureau of Food Safety Hsiao Tung-ming (
Although Hsiao said he agreed with Lai, he failed to make any promises at the conference. He said the bureau will respond to her appeal after further discussions with the MOEA.
Section chief of the MOEA's Department of Commerce Chen Wei-ta (陳威達) admitted at the conference that there may have been problems of coordination between the DOH and the ministry because commodity labels are covered by regulations from both departments.
Wang Shu-hui (
She added that the relevant government agencies are obliged to review their enforcement of related regulations by law.
Countries such as Japan, the US, Canada and Singapore all require that imported products contain information on their packaging detailing their place of origin, according to the Bureau of Foreign Trade section chief Li Su-fen (李素芬).


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Trending Upward: New Models Help Boost GM's Year-to-Date Sales by 36 Percent
Bolstered by strong new model introductions and the continued success of midsize and large crossovers, General Motors announced double-digit sales increases at its four core brands today. Among the sales winners are the Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac SRX.
The General's strong sales numbers are a result of hot-selling crossovers across the board, as well as new model introductions. Top sellers among crossovers are the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain. GM has moved more than 94,000 of the models combined since January. Among the Lambda triplets, the Chevrolet Traverse has seen a 56-percent increase over June 2009, and the new-for-2010 Cadillac SRX celebrates a whopping 462-percent increase over one year ago.
Of the new model introductions, the Chevrolet Camaro, Equinox, and Buick LaCrosse join the aforementioned SRX in triple-digit percent increases since the beginning of 2010, although Camaro sales are down 19.1 percent this June when compared to June of 2009. Pickup truck sales also increased across the board, up 12 percent from a year ago. The increases come as the economy is rebounding from a downward trend.
"As companies continue to invest in their businesses, we expect this segment to continue to recover," said GM U.S. sales operations vice president Don Johnson. "We think the release of some pent-up demand in the pickup market is an indication that a fundamental part of the U.S. economy is gradually strengthening."
Is this a good sign for the U.S. car market in general? Let us know what you think in the comments section.


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Will Nokia’s New Purchase Finance a Comeback?
Nokia’s (NYSE:NOK) decision to buy out Siemens’s (NYSE:SI) share of their network equipment joint venture comes at turbulent time in the company’s history. While the 1.7-billion-euro, or $2.21 billion, price tag Nokia will pay Siemens to gain full control of Nokia Siemens Networks (NSN) is cheaper than expected and analysts say the business provides solid growth potential, its not likely that the cyclical business is profitable enough to absorb the losses of the company’s mobile phone division. Even more concerning, the purchase will strain the company’s balance sheet, which is already struggling from losses incurred by the mobile phone division.
The Finnish mobile phone manufacturer could even burn through its cash as soon as next year. Nokia calculated its net cash position amounted to 3.7 to 4.2 billion euros at the end of the second quarter, and added that if the NSN transaction had closed that quarter, the cash position would have been 2.0 to 2.5 billion euros. This difference indicates that the company burned 350 to 850 million euros during that three month period, a level that concerned many analysts.
To finance the transaction, Nokia secured a 1.2 billion euro, or $1.56 billion, loan backed by JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:JPM) to finance the acquisition, reported Reuters. The remaining balance will be paid in the form of a 500-million-euro, one-year secured loan from Siemens.
Financing may be secured, but there are lingering questions regarding whether the one-time technological leader — now with junk long-term credit ratings from Moody’s Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s — can breathe new life into its struggling mobile phone business. The cash problem puts a constraint on the company’s ability to do that. “If they constantly have to be worried about the cash position, it restricts their ability to move, to react to changes in the market,” explained Pohjola analyst Hannu Rauhala to Reuters.
Nokia’s weak cash position has even worse implications for the future of the company. Canadian bank Canaccord predicted that Nokia’s cash burn would continue at a similar rate in coming quarters, estimating that the company would end 2014 with just 1 billion euros, or $1.3 billion, net cash. Bank of America’s Merrill Lynch said that at such a rate Nokia would be in a net debt position in just four quarters.
Last year, Moody’s Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s slashed Nokia’s long-term credit ratings to junk on the prediction that the company would experience further losses and burn more cash as its battle against the incredibly popular smartphones designed by Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Samsung (SSNLF.PK) becomes even more of a struggle. In the intervening months, the market share of its handsets powered by Microsoft’s (NASDAQ:MSFT) Windows Phone 8 did not improve significantly. Research firm IDC said Windows Phone accounted for slightly more than 3 percent of all first-quarter smartphone shipments; Nokia exclusively uses Windows 8, and Nokia handsets represent 79 percent of all Windows 8 devices sold in the first quarter.
The mobile revolution has forged winners, like Apple, and forced other market players to play catch up after having failing to adapt quickly enough to the changes. That latter category includes PC-software pioneer Microsoft, and Nokia, which was a leader in early cellphone design. But Apple’s introduction of the iPhone in 2007 and the iPad in 2010 shock up the technology world.
Nokia’s problems were most accurately summarized two years ago by Stephen Elop, a former senior Microsoft executive who became Nokia’s Chief Executive Officer. In an internal memo, he likened the company to a man working on a burning oil platform in the middle of the North Sea, whose situation presented a Catch-22: he could either risk death on the “burning platform” or take a risky plunge into the freezing water, which could save him.
Elop chose to jump into a partnership with Microsoft, which was looking for an ally for its new smartphone software. Nokia picked Microsoft’s mobile operating software over Google’s (NASDAQ:GOOG) Android and Apple’s iOS, a deal that made both companies deeply dependent on each other for their mobile future. But as a result, Elop has taken fire for sticking with Windows.
As for NSN, Elop said Monday the networks business would remain an independent entity, but he did not rule out the possibility of listing it or selling it, which would help the company’s cash position.
Fitch’s Owen Fenton told Reuters Tuesday that the acquisition of the profitable network business was a positive, but tempered that assessment by noting that “it does not make too much difference.” Still, he said that during the past year Nokia’s handset and network business outperformed the credit agency’s expectations, even if its mobile phone business is “extremely limited” in terms of visibility.
Follow Meghan on Twitter @MFoley_WSCS
Investing Insights: Will An Acquisition Help Nokia?


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Positive message turns sour after artist accuses H&M of copying her design
Retail giant H&M has been accused of copying an artist's design to use in its homeware collection.
Tori LaConsay, from Atlanta, Georgia, painted a community billboard with the message 'You Look NiceToday' to compliment her East Atlanta Village neighbours.
A few days ago, however, that good
feeling turned sour when the illustrator and designer, 32, discovered that products sold by the chain in the UK, had been printed with a similar design.
Copied? Tori LaConsay painted a community billboard with the message 'You Look Nice Today' as a tribute to her neighbours in Atlanta
Doormat? The artist's good feeling turned sour when she discovered that products sold by the chain had been printed with a similar design
She told how friends had alerted her to the likeness last week, and a look at the ubiquitous brand's website revealed that a line of pillows, towels and doormats had been embellished with the message.
Not only were the words the same, but the font and the small red heart at the end of the missive were remarkably similar.
An initial response to Ms LaConsay's claim, made by the Swedish label on its Facebook
page, denied foul play, but in an effort to quell growing outrage
H&M today tweeted an apology assuring they were in direct contact
with the artist to resolve the matter.
Ms LaConsay initally painted the sign in 2008 as a positive affirmation residents of the area could take with them on their way to work.
Product range: The H&M homewares line included this tea towel, as well as pillowcases and a doormat
On the reverse, an alternative message read: 'I'm So Happy You’re Here' in an effort to make passers-by feel just as appreciated on their way home.
Describing it as a 'love letter', she told Regretsy.com: 'The
sign was located on the main thoroughfare on Flat Shoals Avenue.
'It was a small gesture that I genuinely hoped would make my neighbors feel good.'
On discovering the likeness between the H&M products and her sign, a friend of Ms LaConsay made contact with H&M customer service.
They wrote: 'Your "You Look Nice Today" rug and pillow design has been stolen from an artist based in the US named Tori LaConsay.
'Shame on you for hiring such lazy designers! Tori deserves to be compensated! Until there is something done, I will no longer be shopping with H&M.'
The reply the following day was brief and unapologetic: 'Thank you for your email regarding our "You Look Nice Today" items. We are sorry to hear that you will no longer be shopping with us.'
Comments on the H&M Facebook page
came flooding in by the hundreds as consumers and critics caught wind of
the alleged infringement.
Containing controversy: H&M posted an apology on Twitter and Facebook for its customer service department's poor initial handling of the matter
Representatives writing on behalf of the label were quick to try and quash the controversy by posting an apology for customer service's poor handling of the matter.
This morning, a representative for H&M wrote on the page: 'We’re very sorry about our CS team’s answer, it's unfortunate and we apologize for it. We're in direct contact with Tori LaConsay.'
Since Ms LaConsay's complaint came to light, the 'You Look Nice Today' items have been removed from sale on the H&M UK website.
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Wings Etc. Grill & Pub to open Rochester, Ind. location Dec. 17
Fast-growing Wings Etc. Grill & Pub opens 72nd location in Rochester, Ind on Dec. 17.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ROCHESTER, Ind., Thursday, Dec. 12, 2019 — A new Wings Etc. Grill & Pub location will open in Rochester, Ind. on Dec. 17 at 11 a.m.
Indiana-based Wings Etc. Inc. is a fast-growing sports bar franchise known for its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, award-winning jumbo wings, diverse pub menu and local craft beer options. The chain operates 72 franchised and company-owned locations in 10 states.
“This is our eighteenth corporate-owned location and we are excited that it will be in Rochester,” said Ryan Flickinger, the Wings Etc. Operating Company’s Vice Pres. of Operations.
“We are grateful for all the community interest and support. We are looking forward to a successful opening week.”
Wings Etc. Rochester is located at 390 Rochester Crossing Dr. Rochester, Ind. 46975. For more information visit www.wingsetc.com.
About the Wings Etc. Grill & Pub Franchise Opportunity
Founded in 1994 by Jim Weaver in the South Bend, Indiana area, Wings Etc. is a family-friendly grill and pub with a diverse menu featuring award-winning jumbo Buffalo wings, 22 signature sauces, fresh- never-frozen gourmet burgers, smoked ribs, sandwiches, subs, wraps, salads, kids meals, over 40 domestic and craft beer selections in bottles and on tap, dozens of large HDTVs tuned to the best sports programming, and a casual, non-corporate-y, laid-back “vibe” that makes people want to just come in and hang out. In addition to its popular sports programming, menu and beverage options, Wings Etc. offers kid-friendly, arcade-quality video games, weekday lunch and food specials, online ordering and much more.
Franchising since 2004, Wings Etc. Grill & Pub has been named one of Restaurant Business Magazine’s “Future Franchises” for three consecutive years and has also been named one of Franchise Gator’s “Top 100 Franchises” for four consecutive years. Wings Etc. continues to grow and succeed by partnering with franchise operators who share the Wings Etc. Vision, Mission and Values, a commitment to building a successful business while helping build stronger communities and people, and to having fun!
Wings Etc. offers single and multiunit franchise options. The initial franchise fee is $39,500, with a $200,000 liquid cash investment, and $500,000 minimum net worth requirement for interested prospects. Wings Etc. offers one of the lowest startup costs and break-even franchise opportunities in the full-service restaurant segment. Priority growth markets include Indiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Illinois, Ohio, Alabama and Florida.
For more information about the Wings Etc. franchise opportunity, visit www.wingsetcfranchise.com.


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Our 36 acre solar farm goes live today. Some 21,600 solar panels will produce 5.1 Megawatts of electricity for the National Grid, equivalent to the demand of 1500 homes as well as reducing carbon dioxide emissions by around 5900 tonnes a year.
Our first asparagus is being picked today, nearly 3 weeks earlier than last year. We have 215 acres in production this season. Fingers crossed for some warm weather.
The new block of glass at the Holts is up and running. This is the first large scale commercial trial in the UK of growing tomatoes under lights using LED interlighting, and only the third in the world. This will allow us to supply quality British tomatoes all year round.


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Punjab Chief Secretary (CS) Kamran Ali Afzal on Wednesday directed all deputy commissioners to take concrete steps to control prices of food items in the wake of rains and floods that had pushed rates up, besides keeping a close watch on the supply chain of vegetables, especially tomatoes and onions.
He gave this instruction while presiding over a video-link meeting of all divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners, here at Civil Secretariat.
The chief secretary asked the officers to play an active role in stabilizing the prices of food items, especially vegetables and pulses.
He said that the import of tomatoes and onions would be encouraged to minimize the gap between supply and demand.
The chief secretary directed that special counters be set up in model bazaars to ensure the availability of tomatoes and onions at fixed rates and the demand and supply of food items, especially vegetables, be monitored on a daily basis.
He said that all price controls magistrates should be immediately mobilized in the field and no leniency should be shown to profiteers and hoarders.
He said that there was a need to work with more effort and passion in difficult situations.


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PZ Cussons Nigeria’s Profit Collapses as Dollar Shortage Bites
PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc’s full-year profit more than halved as the soap-maker battled a scarcity of foreign exchange, soaring inflation and weaker consumer demand. Net income fell 53 percent in the 12 months ending May 31 to 2.13 billion Naira ($6.63 million), the Lagos-based company said in a statement published on the Nigerian Stock Exchange website. Revenue dropped 4.9 percent to 69.5 billion Naira.
“The business environment for the fast-moving consumer goods sector was extremely challenging,” Chairman Kolawole Jamodu said in the statement. Operating conditions were tough largely because of the global slump in the price of oil, on which Nigeria’s government depends for about 70 percent of revenue, and a shortage of dollars to pay for imports, he said.
Nigeria has been battered by the plunge in crude prices which have fallen more than 50 percent over the past two years, while capital controls imposed to stem the fall of the naira sent foreign investors fleeing. The International Monetary Fund forecasts the economy will shrink 1.8 percent this year, the first contraction since at least 1991. The inflation rate rose to 16.5 percent in June, the highest in almost 11 years.
The shares of PZ Cussons Nigeria, which is majority-owned by the Manchester, U.K.-based soap-maker, have fallen 39 percent in the past year. That compares with an 9 percent drop for the Nigerian stock exchange’s benchmark index.
The central bank’s decision to ease capital controls and devalue the naira on June 20 should improve conditions, Jamodu said. The currency has lost 39 percent of its value against the dollar since it was floated.
“The challenges still exist in the economy, however, we are optimistic that the flexible exchange rate policy introduced in June 2016 will result in improved prospects,” he said.


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BURBANK, Calif. — CalExotics proclaims the latest summer edition of ANME the best ever.
According to the company, business was booming in the CalExotics trade show booth, which was visited by more attendees this year than ever before.
CalExotics unveiled its Super Catalog, featuring 544 full-color pages, to distributors, customers, party planners and members of the press.
“The traffic through the CalExotics booth was non-stop,” said Susan Colvin, CalExotics president and CEO. “It seemed like the whole industry attended this year’s ANME Show. It was great showing everyone our new Super Catalog, Intimacy is an Art Form.”
California Exotic Novelties showcased several new products and collections including: Amour, Bound by Diamonds, COLT, Couture Collection, Dr. Laura Berman, Entice Her and Entice Him games, Extreme Pure Gold, First Time, Glow-in-the-Dark, Maximus Enhancement System, My Mini Miracle Massager Pleasure Kits, Precious Metals Jewels, Sex on the GO, Silicone Jack Rabbits, Sue Johanson’s Travel Head Honcho Kit and others.
“Our new items and collections received great feedback. We’ll roll them out over the next few months and start filling those orders,” said Jackie White, vice president of sales for California Exotic Novelties.
This year California Exotic Novelties focused on safe and pure materials and powering products with strong, state-of-the-art motors. Silicone items displayed in the center of the booth included the new Silicone Jack Rabbits, a design that’s been an all-time bestseller, the company said.
“The mysterious dark, back room of the CalExotics booth created a big buzz. The first phthalate-free Glow-in-the-Dark items were displayed in a fun, unique environment,” said Al Bloom, director of marketing for California Exotic Novelties. “People loved going back there to see them.”
CalExotics also revealed its The Sex on the GO display featuring basic products in an easy-to-assemble P.O.P.
“I heard a lot of chatter about CalExotics at the ANME Show,” says Desiree Duffie, director of public relations for California Exotic Novelties. “Everyone loved the beautiful booth, the female-friendly products, the new QR Code Category P.O.P. Signage, and of course we got many congratulations for being named Manufacturer of the Year during the StorErotica Awards.”


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Staff at Poundland will get an extra week of holiday as a thank you for all the work they've put in to stay open during the coronavirus outbreak.
Some 700 of the chain's 800 branches have kept their doors open to the public, thanks to Poundland's status as an essential retailer.
As well as an extra week off, Poundland doubled staff discounts, as well as saying it would definitely be closed on Boxing Day as well as Christmas Day this year.
Staff also get access to temporary stores designed for them in its warehouses, so they can easily get hold of essential household items.
Poundland has also brought in a series of measures to protect staff while they work - including perspex screens at checkouts, limited numbers of customers in store and fewer tills open to keep up social distancing among shoppers.
Staff have also been given access to hand sanitiser and told restocking shelves will only happen when the doors are closed.
The benefits were explained by boss Barry Williams in a video posted online.
"Sometimes saying thank you isn't enough, so we're going a lot to support our colleagues as well," he said.
"Whether that's doubling the discount on all the products that you can buy from us through our colleague discount scheme, providing extra holiday - all colleagues are getting an extra week's holiday because of the service they've provided - an extended break to spend with their families and loved ones at Christmas."
He added: "It really is important that we thank them for everything they’re doing."
Earlier this month Poundland said it would temporarily close 100 branches with staff put on furlough thanks to coronavirus.
While the shop counts as an essential retailer, so is allowed to stay open, customer numbers have plummeted at some branches as the effects of the Government's lockdown policy hit footfall.
That meant many of the chain's outlets have been losing cash.
As a result, the company said it was putting 100 branches into "hibernation" until the crisis has resolved and people are free to work and shop again as normal.
Staff will be moved to nearby stores to help keep up with demand where possible, while others will be put into furlough.


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The RTX 3000 stock should be enough by July 2022, the Steam deck will no longer be delayed, the Galaxy Tab S8 is running, it’s time for a Friday January 14th, 2022 recap.
It’s time for the usual recap and today, we’re having news for Friday, January 14, 2022. On the menu, graphics cards that will eventually be available, a portable game console that will be released on a scheduled date and leaked Samsung tablets. let’s go !
RTX 3000s will no longer be out of stock
Since their release in late 2020, Nvidia’s RTX 3000 graphics cards have suffered from stock shortages that have poisoned the lives of the manufacturer, but also of players who have been unable to get their hands on the coveted product. According to Nvidia, it’s all over too soon. Producer Wants to Be Optimistic and promises an end to supply problems for the second half of 2022. We just ask them to believe.
Read – RTX 3000: Nvidia assures more stock will be available by July 2022
Steam decks will no longer be delayed
The Steam Deck is Valve’s portable console. Announced in the summer of 2021, it was to be released in December the same year. But now you know the song. Stock shortage, shortage of semiconductors… This has prompted the manufacturer to shift its schedule for the release scheduled for February 2022, ie next month. In a message posted to Steam, Valve has promised that the date is now set in stone and that The first copies will be sent on the scheduled day. Of course, you must have pre-ordered it to be impressed with this announcement.
Read – Steam Deck: Valve confirms delivery of first model in February 2022
Galaxy Tab S8 is leaking everywhere
Samsung will introduce its new line of tablets very soon: the Galaxy Tab S8. In leaked again, This allows us to see the technical specifications of the slates, which will be powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 1. Three models are planned: the Galaxy Tab S8, the Galaxy Tab S8+ but also the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra, a massive 14.6-inch tablet!
Read – Galaxy Tab S8, S8+ and S8 Ultra: Tech sheets, official photos, tablets revealed ahead of launch
Prone to fits of apathy. Music specialist. Extreme food enthusiast. Amateur problem solver.


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A new update for PUBG was released today. PUBG New Update 1.41 Patch Notes Below is a list of all adjustments and bug fixes.
The PUBG Update 1:41 can be downloaded now for PS4 and Xbox One. With the update, there are only a few bug fixes; there is no new content.
PUBG New Patch Notes 1.41 Update
- Re-introduced Sanhok and Vikendi maps to TDM
- Fixed an issue where Xbox players were unable to search for PS4 players
- Fixed an issue where a weapon in the 2nd slot moves when pulling the pin out of a throwable
- Fixed an issue where the motorcycle skin is not shown in the level 100 “Speed Demon” Survival Mastery pose
- Fixed an issue where S686 and S1897 shotgun shells display incorrectly while reloading if a skin has been applied to the weapon
- Fixed an issue preventing players from inviting their friends to custom matches after pressing the invite button
- [TDM] Fixed an issue that caused players to climb stairs unnaturally after respawning
- [TDM] Fixed an issue causing the Equipment / Backpack icons to occasionally not show on the UI
- [TDM] Fixed an issue where Blue Zone damage is not dealt to players that stand up after crouching or proning outside the playable area
April 1st is not there yet, and yet we have the first big fun event to report. Already on Tuesday, the people behind the big Battle Royale title PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds released a trailer that introduces the “Fantasy Battle Royale” mode. Starting tomorrow, this will be playable for a week in total and will turn a lot of things upside down.
PUBG fans usually find themselves in a comparatively “realistic” scenario in which they fight for pure survival. Numerous firearms are also included in the game under joint names. They are screwed on, mufflers mounted, handles attached. There are also protective vests, grenades, and much more.
2020 April Fools’ Day – Fantasy Battle Royale
For more information and latest updates stay tuned with BreakinGameNews.


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There are always interesting developments in the world of virtual reality. We have seen most major US sports franchises embrace this new technology over the past year. Intel has signed a new deal to become the exclusive VR provider for Turner’s NBA coverage. That in itself is a pretty interesting development, to say the very least. Experiencing NBA action up close and in 360-degree fashion will hopefully make more consumers excited about VR.
Intel Gets Exclusive VR Rights for NBA
We have seen multiple sports franchises embrace virtual reality in terms of broadcasting rights. The MLB may very well be leading the pack in this regard. It is good to see the NBA acknowledge this market has a lot of potential as well. Intel and Turner Sports are joining forces as part of this multi-year deal. Intel will provide VR for the NBA on TNT exclusively. This includes live content for a few NBA games, starting with the 2018 All-Star Weekend.
Although this means most broadcasts will not be available in virtual reality, it is an important first step. Intel will work with the league’s other global broadcast partners as well. There are many different opportunities waiting to be explored, that much is evident. Although not too many details were provided at this time, there is plenty of reason to be excited. It is good to see a recognized brand such as Intel get on board with the NBA in this regard.
Intel Sports VP James Carwana states:
“This unique partnership with the NBA will enable us to work with official league broadcasters, including Turner Sports, to take their broadcasts to an unprecedented level and create new ways to immerse viewers in the game. There are a lot of fans who love the game but don’t actually sit within proximity of their favorite team. How can you bring that experience to the fans? It’s envisioning yourself putting on a headset and being transported to that courtside seat.”
Intel’s VR capture system will be put to good use to record and broadcast the eligible games over the coming years. Viewers will enjoy a lifelike VR experience, although it is expected there will be a lot more improvements to make this all the more appealing. Being able to choose the point of view, for example, is something Intel is eager to explore. It is unclear if this will also relate to VOD, although it is likely this will take a lot more time to properly develop.
If you liked this article make sure to follow us on twitter @thevrbase and subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date with the latest VR trends and news.


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FOREST CITY, Iowa — Michael Happe is the first to understand the fine line he walks as CEO ofWinnebago Industries.
He knows the importance of protecting the RV maker’s brand name, synonymous with massive motor homes that tower over passing cars on the freeway, usually driven by someone with silver hair.
But he also knows that market won’t be enough for the Iowa-grown company to remain competitive. Winnebago is rebuilding itself, expanding its line and doubling down on smaller, sleeker and less expensive RVs that will appeal to younger buyers.
“We believe that we are one of the leaders in the RV industry,” Happe says. “However, we can’t rest on the laurels of that legacy. We can’t be complacent.”
Since Happe took the helm in January, about half of the executive leadership has turned over. And many of the company’s top leaders work out of a newly formed office in the Twin Cities, a moved announced when Happe was hired.
Winnebago has begun moving the production of its biggest coaches to the West Coast.
The company’s most ambitious change came the way of the $500 million purchase of Grand Design, which makes towable recreational vehicles that appeal to Millennials’ lifestyles.
The Forest City-based company has seen its fortunes rebound since the recession savaged the entire RV industry. Annual sales, which slumped as low as $211 million in 2009, reached $976.5 million in fiscal year 2016.
That number is expected to increase by some 40 percent with the acquisition of Grand Design, which since it formed in 2012 has become the nation’s fastest-growing RV maker, with nearly $430 million in annual sales this year.
Industry experts have paid attention to Winnebago’s changing direction.
“It’s been a very insular culture. They have been more reactionary than proactive, historically,” said Michael Swartz, an analyst with SunTrust Robinson Humphrey who covers Winnebago. “And I think that’s kind of the message here: they’ve brought in a change agent to kind of think differently about the business from the top down.”
Winnebago looks to Millennials for future growth
Like other RV makers, Winnebago considers the 55-plus crowd its key customer base. Yet the company is increasingly looking at ways to appeal to younger customers, particularly Millennials.
That generation has shown an affinity for tiny homes, minimalist living and full-time freelancing work. Plus, campers and motorhomes make it easy to get close to outdoor destinations.
In recent years, Winnebago has added bike racks, installed more USB charging stations and brought utility lines inside RVs to allow for more winter use, said product manager Russ Garfin.
Some of the brand’s newest products point to where the brand may be heading.
A new concept vehicle build on a Mercedes-Benz van chassis points to a visibly more modern look.
The four-wheel-drive coach is tailor-made for enthusiasts of mountain biking, rock climbing and other outdoor adventures. And at a much lower price point, a new retro-looking teardrop trailer is positioned to compete for younger buyers.
“We feel really strongly that there’s going to be continuous driving down of age point for RV buyers,” Garfin said. “Our current age buyers are also crossing over and enjoying those same kinds of products.”
The typical age of an RV owner is 48, according to 2011 research from the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association. That number represented a one-year decrease from 2005 data, and the organization believes the average age of customers continues to decline, RVIA spokesman Kevin Broom said.
Those figures indicate younger people, including Millennials are moving into the market, he said.


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Haut.AI, an Estonian-based generative AI startup, has raised €2 million in seed funding from LongeVC and Grupo Boticário shareholders. The funding will help Haut.AI expand its skincare e-commerce personalization software and focus on multimodal generative artificial intelligence for skin analysis. The company aims to redefine skincare commerce by democratizing access to precise skincare analysis and providing a data-driven experience that benefits both brands and customers.
Having been founded in 2018, they’re a leader in online skincare analysis, partnering with top retailers like Beiersdorf and Ulta Beauty. Its scientifically backed tech offers easy-to-integrate software for retailers, brands, and clinics to offer precise digital skin analysis and personalized product recommendations. Major stakeholders, including LongeVC’s managing partner Garri Zmudze, believe Haut.AI’s cutting-edge tech will underpin the next generation of skin health, from early detection to diagnostics and personalized care.
Haut.AI has a vast skin imaging dataset with over 150 biomarkers, 3 million images, and billion data points, ensuring unparalleled skin diversity. The company has been using generative AI since 2016, including Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), to generate high-quality synthetic data for training and experimentation. In May 2023, Haut.AI announced SkinGPT, a virtual skincare try-on, using clinical claims. The company uses GenerativeAI to check for biases as part of its ethical AI commitment.
Check out their tool, SkinGPT, in action:


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Fri, 28 Oct 2016 15:04:45 GMT
Geil Evo X memory kits with RGB LED lighting are now available
- The Tech Report, LLC
Geil is showing off its what it calls the the world's first RGB-LED-lit DDR4 modules, in the form of the Evo X DIMMs. We previously reported on Corsair's
Vengeance LED memory
, but those DIMMs limited purchasers to white or blue illumination that's ...
Fri, 21 Oct 2016 15:49:52 GMT
Price Of DDR4 Memory Is Rising Dramatically
- Game Debate
After years of falling prices, memory
prices have actually started increasing abruptly. DDR4 RAM is the most affected, with some brands rising as much as 50% in price over the last six months. Take 16GB of Corsair
Vengeance LPX DDR4 memory
for example ...
Mon, 10 Oct 2016 18:49:16 GMT
Corsair Carbide Series AIR 740 Cube Case Review
- HardOCP (press release)Corsair
is famous for its memory
products, but as you likely know, the company has branched out in recent years with its cooling line, world class power supplies, SSDs, audio components, keyboards and mice and, of course, computer cases. Put it this ...
Fri, 07 Oct 2016 04:34:40 GMT
Corsair Vengeance LPX 3200MHz 32GB DDR4 Review
- Overclockers Club
You can pick up a set of Corsair
Vengeance modules in capacities ranging 8GB to 64GB with modest price points. Select kits come with Corsair's
Vengeance Airflow active cooling solution to maximize overclocking potential when over volting the memory
Mon, 03 Oct 2016 00:11:57 GMT
Fri, 30 Sep 2016 15:32:49 GMT
Corsair announces new Dominator Platinum DDR4 Special Edition kits
- Fudzilla (blog)
As it was the case with earlier Dominator Platinum series DDR4 memory
, these new limited edition kits will also feature a 10-layer PCB and specially screened chips, which should allow it to easily hit 3,600MHz overclock, as well as feature ...
Thu, 29 Sep 2016 11:14:52 GMT
CORSAIR DOMINATOR PLATINUM Special Edition Now Available
CORSAIR finally releases their previously announced DOMINATOR PLATINUM Special Edition DDR4 Memory. The newest in CORSAIR's memory
lineup is definitely not built for the average builder. They have designed every aspect of this memory for the ...
Thu, 29 Sep 2016 09:26:17 GMT
Corsair launches Dominator Platinum Special Edition DDR4 RAM
Based, as the name suggests, on Corsair's
existing Dominator memory
modules, the Dominator Platinum Special Edition family is designed to be collectable as well as functional. Each kit is individually numbered, with the production run of 1,000 32GB ...
Thu, 29 Sep 2016 02:11:08 GMT
Corsair Launches 'Rare' Dominator Platinum Special Edition Memory
- Appuals (blog)Corsair
launched a brand new 'extremely rare' and 'exceptionally crafted' set of DDR4 memory
. The new high performance memory
, called the Dominator Platinum Special Edition DDR4, will come in a number of configurations and kits designed to provide ...
Wed, 28 Sep 2016 20:18:24 GMT
CORSAIR DOMINATOR PLATINUM Special Edition DDR4 Memory
- Legit Reviews
FREMONT, CA – September 28th 2016 – CORSAIR
, a world leader in enthusiast memory
, PC components and high-performance gaming hardware today announced the immediate availability of its new DOMINATOR PLATINUM Special Edition DDR4 ...


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Record electric vehicle sales last summer amid a shortage of computer chips and other materials propelled Tesla Inc. to the biggest quarterly net earnings in its history.
The company said Wednesday that it made $1.62 billion in the third quarter, beating the old record of $1.14 billion set in the second quarter of this year. The profit was over five times larger than the $300 million Tesla made in the same quarter a year ago.
Revenue of $13.76 billion from July through September also set a record, but it fell short of Wall Street expectations of just over $14 billion, according to FactSet.
Excluding special items such as stock-based compensation, Palo Alto, California-based Tesla made $1.86 per share, beating analyst estimates of $1.62. CEO Elon Musk has said he’s moving the headquarters to Austin, Texas, the dateline of Wednesday’s earnings release.
Some of the quarterly profit, though, came from selling regulatory credits to other automakers. Tesla made $279 million on credits during the quarter. Other automakers buy the credits when they can’t meet emissions and fuel-economy standards.
“A variety of challenges, including semiconductor shortages, congestion at ports and rolling blackouts, have been impacting our ability to keep factories running at full speed,” the company said in a statement to shareholders. “We believe our supply chain, engineering and production teams have been dealing with these global challenges with ingenuity, agility and flexibility that is unparalleled in the automotive industry.”
Earlier this month Tesla said it delivered a record 241,300 electric vehicles in the third quarter even as it wrestled with the shortages that have hit the entire auto industry.
Third-quarter sales rose 72% over the 140,000 deliveries Tesla made for the same period a year ago.
So far this year, Tesla has sold around 627,300 vehicles. That puts it on pace to soundly beat last year’s total of 499,550.
© 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Tesla hits record profit despite parts shortage, ship delays (2021, October 20)
retrieved 20 October 2021
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no
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Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares stated yesterday that it may stop all production of it’s brands in China. The company has already terminated a joint venture that built Jeep SUVs in China after failing to take a controlling stake, and is in talks with local partner Dongfeng about its Peugeot and Citroën brands.
“Our strategy anticipates the possibility of geopolitical tensions,” Tavares told reporters at the Paris Motor Show, citing building tensions with the West as a deterrent to investment there. “There have already been several times where we’ve been thrown out of a country when Western sanctions are imposed… can we be sure that the stability of relations between China and the world is guaranteed?”
Peugeot and Citroën brands have struggled to achieve significant market share in China, unlike German competitor Volkswagen, which sold three million cars in China last year.
Surprisingly, Tavares added; “We’re still selling Jeep and Alfa Romeo vehicles built outside China very profitably” (within China — suggesting the same model could work for Peugeot and Citroën). “If we take our strategy all the way, we don’t need any factories in China. In a world of growing tensions, we don’t need to create vulnerabilities.”
Stellantis is aiming for revenues of 20 billion euros ($19.6 billion US) in China by 2030 with its 14 brands, but will China, with a burgeoning home auto manufacturing market, continue to allow a viable means to sell imported cars, especially from brands that have pulled out of production agreements within the country?
Complaining of unequal treatment from Beijing, Tavares stated; “The red carpet is rolled out for Chinese manufacturers in Europe, and that’s not how we’re welcomed in China. Import taxes on vehicles coming from China should be symmetrical with those applied to Western vehicles in China. We are in a world that’s fragmenting, states are trying to create bubbles. If we think these bubbles will close at some point, we’ll have to sell in Europe vehicles that are made in Europe. We will adapt.”
Stellantis may need to adapt sooner than later as Chinese manufacturers like BYD and GWM’s two new energy brands, WEY and ORA, took a variety of vehicles to the Paris Motor Show this week along with Vietnam’s VinFast. All are showing lower-cost electric vehicles they hope will gain a foothold in European markets.
Update — October 31, 2022:
Stellantis announced today that the joint venture between it and Guangzhou Automobile Group producing Jeep vehicles in China is filing for bankruptcy, announcing in a statement it had fully impaired the value of its investment in the joint venture in its results for the first half of 2022. This after a lengthy decline for the oldest foreign auto brand in the world’s largest market. Stellantis said Guangzhou Automobile Group Co (GAC) had also approved the bankruptcy filing and that it would continue to provide service to Jeep customers in China.


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Cruise operators, convenience stores and cosmetics makers seen as good stock picks as China ages
CHINA may be at risk of getting old before it gets rich, but investors can still get rich from China getting old.
And it's not just about buying healthcare stocks. Cruise operators, convenience stores and cosmetics makers are emerging as sectors that stand to benefit from
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The 'light truck' was 'the 1980s equivalent of the sports car'
New category of vehicle was gaining speed on the passenger car in 1987
Mr. and Mrs. Edwards were planning to buy a car — an Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera, maybe.
"But then everything changed around," said Mr. Edwards.
CBC's Venture had found them on a new car lot in 1987, considering joining the growing ranks of light truck owners.
"North American estimates say 600,000 people a year are switching from cars to trucks," said reporter Rae Hull.
"Light trucks aren't quite what they used to be," said Hull. "The industry now calls them 'car alternatives.'"
The new breed of trucks had AM/FM radios, cassette players and full air conditioning, for example.
"It's as luxurious inside as a lot of our top model Cadillacs," said salesman Bill Wallace. "But you can drive in three feet of snow."
And a lot of the people buying them — a third, by one estimate — were women.
The burgeoning truck market of 1987 was a reaction to the compact cars of the late 1970s, said Duncan Brodie of GMC.
"The market was those young urban professionals with time and money to spend," said Hull. "They needed the space for surfboards rather than two-by-fours."
Practical, comfortable ... and trendy
"Sure, people buy them because they're practical and comfortable," said Hull. "But they're also trendy."
A truck owner said people viewed him as the "outdoorsy type," and that he was "always camping and going fishing kind of thing."
And that was exactly the image that American Motors wanted to reinforce with its Jeep.
"The Jeep would really like to be in this environment, off road, that feeling of freedom," said Brian Rivers, describing the Jeep ad campaign.
A mock-up of the print ad showed a line drawing of a Jeep on a city block. Its thought bubble suggested it was dreaming of itself on a dirt road surrounded by trees.
Hull pointed out that market research showed 95 per cent of light truck owners never used them for "rugged driving."
A car salesman said doctors, lawyers and company presidents counted among his light truck clients, even though they never used the four-wheel drive feature. The prestige was what appealed to them, he said.
And a long-haired sunglasses-wearing man behind the wheel of an open truck agreed with Hull's assessment that light trucks were "the sports car equivalent of the 1980s."
"That's what it projects, doesn't it?" he said. "It's always for the ladies, let me tell you. Always. The ladies love it."


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In the past year, it’s a deal about one-third of us made: We handed over our bank data to a fintech app in exchange for it to help us quickly manage our money or provide some other benefit.
However, it turns out we have some concerns about the very thing we’ve been doing to save us time and money, new research shows.
Roughly, two-thirds of consumers who have bank accounts are “very” or “extremely concerned” about their data privacy when they use non-bank apps for money-related tasks, according to an August report from The Clearing House.
“There’s definitely a high level of concern over the protection of data,” says Dave Fortney, executive vice president of product development and management at The Clearing House. “And these (concerns) are from the people who are doing it.”
What’s the risk?
There’s a reason for these concerns: For the app to work, it needs your bank data. So, there’s a good chance the app will ask you for your bank login credentials to grab your data and do its job. Many in the banking industry view this practice known as screen scraping as risky — not only because you’ve handed over your bank account keys to someone else, but because there are questions around what the app is doing with the data or how much data it took and who pays what if there’s a hack.
Shirley Inscoe, a senior analyst at Aite Group, hopes more consumers are recognizing such dangers of sharing their bank credentials with fintech apps. “First of all, if they are concerned, good,” Inscoe says. “They should be.”
According to the study, most of us using fintech apps are concerned — and the research was conducted before the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica data scandal.
These habits aren’t changing
But let’s be clear: We’re not going back to a time before Mint. Apps are popping up all over the place to help people manage their money, get a loan, pay a friend back and more. We like them.
People who say they are concerned about their data are still using the fintech apps that run on bank data.
Dan Jones, director of information security at fintech company MX, says consumers are realizing that their data is highly valuable. However, he sees the research as evidence that the reward of, say, knowing you’re overpaying for a loan outweighs the risk of supplying an app your bank credentials — especially when the bank isn’t making such features available.
“It’s how consumers understand if they are getting a better deal or not,” Jones says.
Let me do what I want, safely
The research supports that consumers want to use fintech apps, but safely and in a transparent manner. “They want that,” Fortney says.
We’re even asking for more control over our data. The survey found that the majority of us (56 percent) would like to call the shots on which financial accounts and data types a third party can grab, for example.
“People are getting more and more fed up with data breaches, and they want some control of their data,” Aite’s Inscoe says.
The industry is working on giving us what we want. Already, a handful of banks have been publicly announcing partnerships with fintech companies that will help consumers use apps without having to hand over banking credentials, for instance.
Associations and regulators have been involved in the broader discussion, too. In 2017, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau published non-binding principles on data sharing. More recently, the U.S. Department of the Treasury wrote about some of the dicier issues in its fintech-focused report. Now, The Clearing House is pushing the industry to implement new consumer financial data access controls.
It’s part of a big trend: letting you bank when you want and where you want. And it’s not stopping. As The Clearing House report says: “There is a need for a concerted effort by all stakeholders — including banks, fintechs, data aggregators, regulators, and consumers — to ensure data security.”
However, there are plenty of challenges in moving to a new data-sharing model, including banks rethinking how they guard your assets. Translation: This isn’t going to happen overnight or even by next year.
How to reduce data risks
Yet, we know you’re not abandoning an app you value while the industry sorts out the mess. So, for those supplying bank credentials to fintech apps, there are several simple steps you can take to help reduce some risks:
1. Get savvier on what using a fintech app means
While the research showed we have a general awareness of what is happening when we use a fintech app, it also highlighted a few misconceptions we need to break. For instance, about a quarter of respondents said they would not use an app that stores their bank credentials. The reality, however, is likely different. Data aggregators — the companies pulling your bank data into an app — can regularly sign into your bank account on your behalf when they have your credentials. Also, some of these companies grabbing your data are reselling it. Know that.
2. Read the disclosures before signing up for the fintech app
We know. Read a disclosure? Ugh. But it will help you understand your rights and obligations. Some apps are more benign than others.
3. Be aware of which apps have access to your bank data
While the industry is working on ways to help you know what you shared with whom, the burden is mostly on you for now. So, once you know what apps you have, decide: Are you actually using all of them? Or, is one just sitting there? If the latter, consider deleting it. Also, your bank may have enabled such a feature through its portal. So, check there, too.
4. Update your bank passwords
It’s easy to forget about an app that still has access to your bank data. So, cut off the access by resetting your bank password(s). Yes, that means you will need to update the fintech apps you do use with the new login information. But the hassle cuts out an unnecessary risk.
The bottom line? The industry is working on ways to address your data privacy concerns and theirs. But for now, you’re calling the shots on what fintech app you need to manage your money.
As Fortney puts it: “It’s really up to everyone’s risk tolerance.”


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Turner is turning to TV Everywhere and it’s employed Adobe to help. TNT and TBS will use Adobe's Primetime TV Everywhere platform for their apps and plans to roll out the strategy on other Turner network apps such as Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, NBA League Pass and truTV.
Networks and pay-TV providers are starting to employ a TV Everywhere strategy, allowing consumers to watch content on mobile devices both in and out of the home. The Turner apps will give users access to the network's content on both Apple and Android devices. Other clients of Adobe include Disney, Viacom, Fox, NBC Universal, Scripps and A&E.
“Turner is one of the largest and most innovative content providers in the world and we are thrilled to expand our partnership to help bring the breadth of their premium TV channels to consumers across all major platforms,” said Jeremy Helfand, VP of Adobe Video Solutions. “We are at the beginning of an exciting industry transformation and are working with the TV industry to provide viewers with the experience they want, and content owners and distributors with the ability to build a business around true TV Everywhere.”
The Adobe platform has ad-insertion technology, which will allow the networks to profit off of marketing dollars as users migrate away from television. Adobe is looking to improve its analytics on the platform so that networks and advertisers can see how users interact with the app.
“Adobe Primetime has seen rapid adoption by the TV industry since its introduction less than five months ago,” Helfand said. “With more than 29 billion video streams delivered by Adobe customers in Q3 alone, advancements in video measurement and content protection are crucial for these media companies to deliver amazing TV experiences online.”
Gina Hall is a Los Angeles-based writer and producer with more than 10 years experience in television, documentary and feature film production. She is a graduate of USC’s School of Cinematic Arts and blogs for the Huffington Post at huffingtonpost.com/gina-hall


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The company sees its new handsets as generational products that merit the distinction of being considered more than just a yearly upgrade. The Galaxy S20 line is also the company’s attempt to gain dominance over Apple in North America and Huawei in Asia and other parts of the world, by offering features and functionalities that no other device can offer.
5G across the board
All the Galaxy S20 models will ship with some flavor of 5G, the mobile data standard that’s expected to offer quicker internet speeds, more secure connections, and faster connections. 5G is nowhere near being the standard as it is still slowly rolling out in limited areas, but Samsung now has the bragging rights of being the first to the party. Businesses looking to add 5G capability to their users, now have viable devices to choose from.
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37 to life for molesting girl
A Castroville man was sentenced to 37 years to life in prison on Friday for sexually molesting an 8-year-old family member, the District Attorney's Office said.
Jose Jesus Madrigal, 30, was convicted by a jury April 30 of sexually molesting the girl while living in her home from January to June 2011. At the time, four families were living in the residence.
In sentencing Madrigal to the maximum term allowed, Judge Russell Scott called him "callous" and a "danger to society."
Madrigal will have to register as a sex offender for life.
Multiple varieties of cheese made by Andante Dairy of Petaluma have been recalled because of a lack of proper pasteurization, the county Health Department said Friday.
All varieties except Musette, Tomme Dolce and Etude cheeses are affected. Consumers are urged to discard any other Andante variety.
The recalled cheeses were sold in sizes from 5 to 8 ounces mainly to retail markets, restaurants and cheese shops in California, with limited distribution in Chicago and New York.
A lack of proper pasteurization can allow dangerous pathogens to survive in the cheese. No illnesses have been reported.
Andante makes its cheese from goat's milk, cow's milk and sheep's milk.
Arab Spring eyewitness to speak at luncheon
Dr. Jerry Leach, an eyewitness to the Arab Spring uprising, will speak at the World Affairs Council luncheon July 15 at Rancho Cañada Golf Club, 4860 Carmel Valley Road.
He will discuss the recent Egyptian elections, the role of the military, prospects for reform and the effect on U.S. relations with the new regime.
The program begins at 11:30 a.m. Cost for World Affairs Council members is $25, guests $35. Reservations are due by Wednesday. Download a reservation form at www.wacmb.org.


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The UK Fire Industry Association (FIA) has recently completed a detailed document covering the selection, design, installation, testing, marking and protection of pipework and actuation lines used in Gaseous Fire Fighting Systems.
On 9th May 2017 Data Centre professionals from
the Middle East met at the Data Centre Dynamics conference and exhibition in
Dubai, where Tyco’s Miguel Coll delivered a presentation on the impact of noise
on Data Centre Hard Disk Drives and how the New Acoustic Nozzle from Tyco can
help reduce this.
Join us on our Hazard and Fire Protection Road Show to discover more about the latest innovations in fire protection for datacentres.
Tyco Fire Protection Products is please to be participating in StocExpoEurope 2017 in Ahoy, Rotterdamn on the 28 March - 30 March 2017.
Tyco Fire Protections Products participates in FeuerTRUTZ 2017, Nürnberg, Germany
We're pleased to announce that our Port Arthur manufacturing and service center has been certified by Tyco as a “Zero Waste to Landfill” site. Port Arthur is Tyco’s first facility in the US, and Tyco Fire Protection Products’ 6th facility in the world, to attain this certification.
Model ESFR-25 (TY9226) protects higher at narrower aisle widths
Tyco Fire Protection Products has developed a new AquaMist Ultra Low Flow (ULF) fire suppression solution specifically designed to protect offices.
Announcing the release of its new GRINNELL Mechanical Suite for Revit®, an add-on to the standard AutoDesk® Revit® software.
This month, Tyco Fire Protection Products opened a new US$ 10-million firefighting foam agent manufacturing facility near Bergamo, Italy.
VdS Approval for Tyco Butterfly Valve, BFV-300
Our manufacturing facility in Ráječko, Czech Republic has been awarded an ISO 50001 certification for its energy use by TÜV SÜD, a globally recognized and respected certification body.
As an industry leader, Tyco is reformulating its firefighting foam products to eliminate C8 compounds in support of the
EPA PFOA Stewardship Program.
This year ANSUL will be showcasing the Increased Nozzle Height Protection of their ANSUL PIRANHA Restaurant Fire Suppression System at Hotelympia.
Tyco Fire Protection Products has developed a new AquaMist Industrial Fire Protection (IFP) solution designed to protect small-scale or single industrial fryer applications.
Tyco Fire Portection Products is pleased to be participating in FeuerTRUTZ 2016
Tyco Fire Protection Products introduces AquaMist ULF (Ultra Low Flow) for cable tunnels.
Offering a lighter, more compact design, the BFV-300 allows for more efficient installation, easier operation and long-term performance
Tyco Fire Protection Products has delivered a series of highly successful seminars covering fire protection technologies and innovations for storage facilities.
Tyco Fire Protection Products held a series of seminars across the Nordic region at the beginning of September, focussing on water-based fire protection solutions for Commercial buildings.
AquMist is pleased to announce the launch of the AquaMist ULF Solution for Data Centers following recent FM approval of the system.
Tyco Fire Protection Products is pleased to announce the launch of L.I.V.E. - Local Instructional Valve Experience.
New Residential Sprinkler Offering Adds to Overall Portfolio of Fire Protection Products
Tyco Fire Protection Products is bringing its solutions to life at Interschutz 2015 with its Tyco City Concept. By showcasing how Tyco solutions protect real applications, Tyco is creating an environment that puts effective fire protection at the heart of a modern city.
Tyco Fire Protection Products recently announced the launch of the RAVEN Studio Sprinklers. The new solution offers a high level of aesthetic appeal, with custom colour sprinklers available for factory order.
Exhibiting in the 'World of Installation Technology' at ISH, GRINNELL showcases its mechanical grooved piping solutions for the HVAC industry.
Tyco Fire Portection Products is pleased to be participating in FeuerTRUTZ 2015
Tyco Fire Protection Products are to exhibit at the Data Centre World exhibition in London this year.
Tyco Fire Protection Products (TFPP) announces the launch of the Tyco DV-5 Red-E Cabinet; a dual exterior and interior integrated fire protection package which offers the perfect technical design solution.
Tyco Fire Protection Products announces two redesigned Early Suppression Fast Response Sprinklers
Tyco Fire Protection Products continued its highly successful series of Storage Sprinkler seminars with three events across Germany.
TFPP Showcased its complete product solution for the Petroleum, Oil and Gas market at MIPS, Moscow 15th - 18th April 2014
We are pleased to announce the official opening of the TechXchange Academy in Madrid on Friday 28th March.
Tyco Fire Protection Products, the world leader in Fire Protection products is proud to sponsor the Best Restaurant category at the European Hospitality Awards, November 2013.
Tyco Fire Protection Products has begun a third series of the highly successful seminars Storage & High Rise Summits, covering fire protection technologies and innovations for storage facilities and high rise buildings.
As you may already be aware, the Construction Products Regulation EU No 305/2011 (CPR) came into force with effect from the 1st of July 2013 and is a mandatory requirement within the EU however is fundamentally different to the previous Construction Products Directive (CPD).
GRINNELL releases its new Mechanical Grooved Systems Catalogue incorporating products from its recently acquired Shurjoint brand; delivering expanded and improved products to the market for general mechanical applications.
Tyco Fire Protection Products has delivered a series of highly successful seminars covering fire protection technologies and innovations for storage facilities and high rise buildings.
Last week Tyco Fire Protection Products showcased its leading range of fire protection, detection and suppression range at the FIREX International Exhibition, NEC – Birmingham 13th – 16th May 2013.
Tyco Fire Protection Products announces a new fire grooved products brand name, GRINNELL G-FIRE. The G-FIRE name reflects our on-going commitment to innovation and new growth in the fire protection sector. segment of our business, while continuing to represent over 160 years of quality and reliability.
Tyco Fire Protection Products is pleased to announce its participation in PYROS, International Fair for Fire Fighting Equipment, Security Technology and Services in Brno, Czech Republic, May 22nd-24th 2013.
Tyco Fire Protection Products is proud to launch 3 new products at FIREX 2013. Read the press releases here!
The Station Nightclub Fire, resulted in the loss of 100 lives with 200 people injured. Tyco was approached by the ﬁlmmakers' of The Station Documentary to tell this important story.
Tyco Fire Protection Products will be showcasing its range of leading fire detection and protection solutions at MIPS 2013.
Tyco product brands GRINNELL Mechanical Products and KWIKSTRUT Metal Framing and Pipe Support brands are proud to be exhibiting at ISH 2013 in Frankfurt, Germany, 12-16th March.
TFPP enhances its existing drop nipple product line
Tyco Fire Protection Products has launched its re-engineered line of K80 TY-B and TY-FRB Pendent, Upright, and Conventional series sprinklers.
Tyco Fire Protection Products is pleased to announce its participation in the Bauma Exhibition at The Munich Trade Fair Centre, Germany on 15th – 21st April 2013.
Tyco has enhanced its presence in the Middle East with the opening of a new office in Dubai.
Tyco Fire Protection Products, stand no K32 in hall 17
Hall 7, Stand 405F, Intersec, Dubai, UAE,15 – 17 January 2013
Hall 7, Stand 405F, Intersec, Dubai, UAE,15 – 17 January 2013
Stand 405F in Hall 7, 15 – 17 January 2013
Close to the Tyco Fire Protection Products offices in Manchester on Thursday 10th January.
TFPPs ESFR-25 pendent sprinkler can be used in storage applications with up to 14.6m ceiling heights
Exciting innovation in fire detection comes to Sicurezza 2012
Now Available for Building Information Modeling Integration
Latest innovation in fire detection technology helps to significantly reduce installation time


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The body aiming to boost exports from the region has welcomed news the government has pledged an extra £13m to help firms trade overseas.
The cash has been allocated by the Department for Business and will help pay for more SMEs to attend trade shows abroad, support businesses with travel costs linked to trade missions and provide discounts to on overseas market research service.
It will be spent across the UK through regional branches of UK Trade & Investment.
The pledge comes on the back of figures that showed exports from the north west hit a three-year low.
Figures compiled by HM Revenue & Customs show £5.53bn of goods were sent overseas by the region's firms during the second quarter of the year, down from £6.86bn in the previous three months and from £6.73bn than in the comparative period of 2011.
Clive Drinkwater, regional director for UKTI north west said: “I have challenged the north west business community to work with us to find 1,000 new exporters this year and we are well on our way, but the additional funding will enable SMEs to have real additional benefits in their international business market planning and help drive us to the target.
“Trade fairs and trade missions can be extremely helpful and we have increased the funding available to SMEs to take their first steps in exporting using UKTI schemes.”
Business secretary Vince Cable said: “One of our major ambitions for growth is to boost UK exports. We have to excel in trade. Small and medium-sized enterprises are crucial to this challenge – over half of the monetary value of the UK’s exports comes from SMEs.”


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Mobile phones using the Android operating system will eventually be huge, even if the number of Android smartphones shipped in 2009 doesn't grow by 900% as a research firm recently predicted.
Google's initial success with its Android mobile operating system will continue -- and in a very big way. That's according to research firm Strategy Analytics, which predicts that global shipments of Android-based smart phones will grow a stunning 90...
We interrupt your steady stream of iPhone rumors to bring you new buzz on that other famous smartphone: the Android-powered T-Mobile G1. While its successor, the T-Mobile G2 (aka HTC Magic) has yet to hit America, there's now talk of a "T-Mobile G1 v...
The long-expected update to the Android operating system, version 1.5, has arrived. T-Mobile will be rolling out the new OS to existing G1 phones starting sometime next week. While you wait for your share of the software upgrade, take heart: There's ...
MTN Group, Africa's biggest mobile-phone company, has released the Android-based HTC Dream smartphone in South Africa and is expected to start sales in 22 other countries.
The owner of an obscure US software development company is suing Google and everyone else in the Open Handset Alliance over their use of the word "Android."
Motorola Inc. is on track to have Android-based smartphones on sale in stores in time for the busy Christmas buying season, and will launch them with multiple carriers in regions around the globe, the head of the company's mobile device division said...
The Android 1.5 update for G1 smartphones, dubbed "Cupcake," began arriving on some of the devices over-the-air Thursday, according to G1 owners reporting on blogs and forums.
Although the newly released Google Android 1.5 software development kit offers such features as speech recognition, developers must be aware of backward compatibility issues on older devices, according to the Google Android blog.
Acer is already working on several different devices using Google's Android operating system and software, and plans to launch a smartphone using the software later this year.
Taiwanese mobile phone service provider Far EasTone is working with a "leading" local handset maker to develop two new smartphones that use Google's Android software.
The Android 1.5 Software Developer's Kit (SDK) was released Monday as expected, offering developers the means to write programs for the Android update coming as early as May in some locations.
Samsung Electronics became the first major mobile phone maker to launch a smartphone based on Google's Android software.
The first netbook computer running the Google Inc.-backed Android mobile operating system on a low-cost ARM chip could become available to customers within three months, the maker's co-founder said this week.
T-Mobile USA sold 1 million G1 smartphones in the first six months since it went on the market, about one-third the number of Apple Inc. iPhones that sold in its first two quarters.
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The screen was particularly good. It is bright and visible from most angles, however heat is an issue, particularly around the Windows button on the front, and on the back where the battery housing is located.
My first impression after unboxing the Q702 is that it is a nice looking unit. Styling is somewhat minimalist but very effective. The tablet part, once detached, has a nice weight, and no buttons or switches are located in awkward or intrusive positions.
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Being featured among the “lucidity pills” on the collective platform Farma 282 for emerging talents, is not only a honour, but also the opportunity to become active part of a creative community. The work we spoke about in the interview is “Sincrasi”, a special jewelry project conceived in collaboration with photographer Marco Augusto Ghilardi.
Article by Isabella Casu for Edera magazine n.38, November 2020.
Article by Barbara Lombardi Santoro on La Toscana nuova magazine n.5, May 2019.
Gabriele Hoffer web marketing expert and journalist come for a studio visit and wrote some really inspirational words about my work. You can read the full article here: www.doveintoscana.it
Honoured to be featured on American Craft Council Magazine 2019 edition among the not-to-miss design locations when visiting Florence.
The national daily newspaper La Repubblica talks about the new generations of designers “made in Italy” with a special focus on the protagonists of Milan 2017 design fairs. Among them Clizia Moradei with the brand Clizia Jewelry. Picture on top features Talos and Scia rings by Clizia Jewelry.


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OB10 and Digital Planet Form E-invoicing Alliance in Turkey
Global electronic invoicing (e-invoicing) network OB10 and Turkish e-invoicing solutions provider Digital Planet have formed an alliance ahead of new regulations being introduced in Turkey next month that will require certain companies to adopt e-invoicing.
OB10 said that the alliance will assist companies in complying with the new regulations and automating their invoicing processes.
Digital Planet, one of the first certified service providers in Turkey, helps companies that are required to adopt e-Invoicing to integrate with the government’s new system without changing their invoicing flows. As part of Tungsten Corporation, OB10 aims to offer invoice discounting to Turkish suppliers and generate substantial cost savings for buying organisations through spend analytics.
“Our partnership will help organisations meet their regulatory requirements and streamline their processes,” said Edmund Truell, group chief executive (CEO) at Tungsten Corporation. “Automated invoice processing also allows companies to take advantage of early payment discounts and improve payment performance.”
Through e-invoicing, Turkey’s Ministry of Finance aims to close the gap from lost taxation, while companies can strengthen their invoicing practices, invoice data analysis and supplier relations.


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Multimillion-dollar plans are in store for Blue Mountain Plaza, a 66,000-square-foot shopping center just north of the Peekskill-Buchanan border.
“We’re bringing an up-to-date shopping center that’s completely refurbished to an area that needs some refurbishing,” Kurtsam Realty Corp. property manager Fred Schwalb said of the complex at 20 Welcher Ave. in Peekskill.
The shopping center’s roughly $10 million improvement project includes expansions and renovations to an existing McDonald’s restaurant and CVS Pharmacy. Both companies plan to invest their own money in the redevelopments.
Kurtsam Realty Corp., the Croton-on-Hudson owner of the property, also plans to revive the exterior of the entire shopping complex, which is just off the Welcher Avenue exit of Route 9.
“When the entire project is complete, we’ll have a state-of-the-art center that provides high-quality, easy-access shopping and services for the entire area,” Schwalb said.
The first phase of the center’s revival wrapped earlier this month, when the 3,200-square-foot McDonald’s opened the doors of its newly-renovated eatery. The nearly $1 million project features digital menu boards and touch-screen kiosks for ordering. The restaurant also plans to launch a smartphone app for mobile ordering.
“This has always been an excellent location for us, and we anticipate an increase in business as a result of the modernization,” said McDonald’s franchise owner Carlos Wong.
On the opposite side of the shopping center, CVS plans to expand its footprint from 3,600 to approximately 14,000 square feet. The larger pharmacy, set to open late next year, will also offer a drive-through lane for prescription pickups.
“In today’s neighborhood shopping center market, a large pharmacy is just as important as a grocer used to be,” Schwalb said. “To accommodate that (expansion) meant playing musical chairs with the other tenants.”
As part of the expansion, CVS will take over a retail space that is now occupied by the Trustco Bank. The bank plans to move into what will be a newly constructed building on the south end of the center.
Longtime tenants Chinatown Kitchen, Forever Yours Flowers and Golden Scissors Hairdresser will be between CVS and the bank, along with a newly added shoemaker Sole Man.
The complex’s anchor tenant, Green Grocer, is also undergoing an interior renovation, and the supermarket’s 34,700-square-foot building will also soon have a new facade. The grocer took over the space from longtime anchor, A&P, which operated at Blue Mountain from 1959 until its closure in 2015.
“Our aim is to bring consumers healthy, affordable and convenient one-stop food shopping,” said Green Grocer store owner Alex Davashi.
Other improvements to the center will include repaving and restriping the parking areas, new outdoor lighting and upgraded landscaping.
The complex’s third building on the west side of the property will also see the expansion of Go No Sen Karate.
Kurtsam officials believe these improvements to the shopping center will enhance the customer experience.
“Parents can drop their kids off at karate, do a quick food shop and pick up a prescription,” Schwalb said. “Others can have a meal, drop off their shoes for repair and have a haircut.”
Kurtsam Realty President Joanne Landau pointed to the revival of Peekskill’s downtown, along with the recently opened gaming and entertainment center at Charles Point Marina as signs of the area’s resurgence.
“It’s finally starting to happen,” she said “We’re excited to be a part of that.”


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The University of San Francisco has revealed the results of a six month 2010 iPad study involving 40 faculty members that looked at how teachers could use the device as a tool in the classroom. The result: while many teachers found the device useful, all thought there was room for improvement. ...
Software Updatesmore updates
- Apple Remote Desktop updated with Yosemite support
- OS X Yosemite 10.10.2, iOS 8.1.3 updates now available
- Sports Illustrated 120 SPORTS channel comes to Apple TV
- Logic Pro X update brings AirDrop support, new effects, tools, and more
- Parallels Access 2.5 released, adds file manager, computer-to-computer remote access
- The Google Translate iOS app is about to get a lot smarter


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Due to new outlets like blogs, "there's going to be a lot of trying to determine how much [brand managers] control the marketing mix and how much you let consumers control," says Ms. Zwicky, 26, a student at UW's Center for Brand & Product Management. She adds that consumers "want to drive their own message. [The challenge is] trying to manage that message ... without having it be too contrived or 'packaged.' "
The ad agency must "have more of a role in the brand-marketing group," she says, though adding that "the ownership of the brand needs to stay with the brand manager."
The best such execs, says Amy Schmidt, director of the center, are "stewards of the brand."
U. Of Wisconsin - Madison
* MBA student at UW brand management center
* Worked as Unilever asst. brand mgr.


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May 2, 2023
Snap CEO: weâ€™re on track to hitting 1.0 billion MAUs
Snap CEO: Weâ€™re on Track to Hitting 1.0 Billion MAUs
Snap Inc., the parent company of Snapchat, has been making waves in the social media industry since its inception in 2011. With over 500 million monthly active users (MAUs) as of Q2 2021, the company has been growing at an impressive rate. However, Snap CEO Evan Spiegel has set his sights even higher, stating that the company is on track to hitting 1.0 billion MAUs.
In a recent earnings call, Spiegel shared his optimism about the company's future growth prospects. He highlighted the company's strong performance in Q2 2021, with revenue increasing by 116% year-over-year to $982 million. He also noted that the company's user base had grown by 23% year-over-year, with the majority of this growth coming from outside of North America and Europe.
Spiegel attributed this growth to the company's focus on innovation and user engagement. He highlighted the recent launch of Snap's augmented reality (AR) platform, which has been a major driver of user engagement. The platform allows users to create and share AR experiences, such as filters and lenses, which have become a popular feature on the app.
Snap has also been investing heavily in its content offerings, with the launch of its Spotlight feature in November 2020. The feature allows users to create and share short-form videos, similar to TikTok. The company has been offering cash rewards to users whose videos go viral on the platform, which has helped to drive engagement and user growth.
Spiegel also highlighted the company's focus on privacy and safety, which has become an increasingly important issue for social media users. He noted that Snap has been investing in its safety features, such as its reporting tools and content moderation, to ensure that the platform remains a safe and welcoming space for users.
Overall, Spiegel's comments suggest that Snap is well-positioned for continued growth in the coming years. With a focus on innovation, user engagement, and safety, the company is poised to attract new users and retain its existing user base. If Snap can continue to execute on its growth strategy, hitting 1.0 billion MAUs may not be too far off.