New Pershing 6X: bold by nature

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Compact and provocative, the new entry in the Generation X range is second to none

Self-assured and defiant, with a slew of new features and an incredible 48 knots of power: Pershing 6X expresses the boldest and most daring side of the brand’s character, the side that always appeals to people who love excitement on the water. Compact but in no way incomplete, it packs all the best of the brand’s leading-edge technology into a compact form factor. It refuses to be intimidated and is ready to fight its side on a level playing field.

18.94 metres (about 62 ft) long and 4.80 metres (about 16 ft) wide, Pershing 6X is the result of collaboration between Ferretti Group’s Product Strategy Committee led by Mr. Piero Ferrari, the design firm headed by Fulvio De Simoni, and the Group’s Engineering Department.

EXTERIOR DESIGN AND MAIN FEATURES

Pershing 6X has an eye-catchingly sleek and streamlined appearance, with exterior styling that shares the same family feeling as the other Generation X models. The new yacht turns heads with its highly aerodynamic profile and large glazed surfaces in the hull that flood the lower deck with natural light.

The main novelties include style features that clearly reflect Pershing’s approach to design in recent years, further improving functional and comfort-related design goals without affecting outstanding performance. They include the new styling of the big aft sun pad, the carbon and teak table in the cockpit dining area, and the chaise longue with reclining backrest positioned forward. 

INTERIOR DESIGN AND LAYOUT

The most important new feature on the main deck is the helm station, made up of a dashboard with two 19-inch monitors, carbon fibre control panels and an electro-hydraulic steering system. Also available is an innovative joystick coupled to the surface drive with various advanced operating modes, including ‘easy handling’ for ground-breaking manoeuvrability in ports and confined waters. A large sunroof opens over the dashboard to take cruising enjoyment to the next level.

The first Pershing 6X unit has a layout with three cabins – owner, forward VIP and starboard guest – and three bathrooms with separate shower. The guest bathroom, which can be entered both from the cabin and the lobby on the mezzanine, also acts as day toilet.  On the left side of the hull is the galley, strategically positioned to benefit from various sources of natural light, including a ceiling window. The version for the American market has two cabins – owner and VIP – with a living space replacing the guest cabin.

Both versions have a crew cabin entered from the cockpit, with a single bed and integrated bathroom.

Among the other novel features are new rectangular portholes that look even more like real windows.

The materials used for the interiors of the new 6X are in perfect Pershing style, with extensive use of plain and lacquered wood for the furniture, parquet floors, Mastrotto and Poltrona Frau leathers, and mirrored panels in the owner’s cabin. The lighting system features new horizontal LED bars in the ceiling that match the decor based on alternating smooth and undulated surfaces. 

PROPULSION AND TECHNOLOGY

Pershing 6X confirms the outstanding performance standards set by the entire X Range: a top speed of almost 48 knots and a cruising speed of about 42 knots, with a pair of 1,550 mhp MAN V12 1550 engines.

NFT-Creator Icecap Moves to Dubai in DMCC, Launches NFT Diamond Collectibles

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Icecap, LLC, the first company to offer diamonds via NFT “token” technology, has moved its headquarters to Dubai within DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Center) and has launched a line of high-end diamond and jewelry collectibles. The tokenized “Icecap Collectibles” will include very high-end, natural diamonds in red, yellow, green and other colors, plus unique finished jewelry pieces.  A US$3 million red diamond is included in the first offering.  The announcement came during the Company’s prestigious launch event held at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in the Dubai International Financial Center. 

Non-Fungible Token (“NFT”) technology, gained worldwide attention in March when an NFT representing ownership of a piece of digital art was sold by Christie’s for $69 million.  NFTs are blockchain-based “tokens” which document ownership of real world or virtual world assets.  As blockchain tokens, once sold they can move efficiently between buyers/sellers for trading purposes, on NFT exchanges.

“NFT technology has opened up diamonds as an asset class for diversification,” explained Jacques Voorhees, CEO Icecap.  “Diamonds typically out-perform inflation, but now—with NFT technology—diamonds can be bought, sold, and traded almost as efficiently as gold and silver.  Thanks to NFTs, we might say the world’s hardest asset is now liquid.”

Icecap is the brainchild of the father/son team of Jacques Voorhees, who revolutionized the diamond industry in the 1980’s by introducing online trading technology via Polygon, and Erik Voorhees, the well-known bitcoin advocate and founder of ShapeShift. 

“Interest in diamonds as an investment goes back over a thousand years,” continued Voorhees.  “But diamonds are not fungible—each one is unique.  The technology of non-fungible tokens now makes it easy to trade this asset class without the friction of having to track the physical product itself—which is kept secure, vaulted, and insured.”

Icecap’s diamond tokens are traded on the world’s largest NFT exchange, OpenSea.io.  A buyer can hold the token as a hard-asset for diversification or for collecting, sell the token to liquidate, or redeem the token and take delivery of the physical diamond itself—which can later be re-tokenized if desired. 

Icecap’s relocation from the United States to Dubai was an easy one, according to Voorhees.  “In the last twelve months, Dubai has become the primary trading center for diamonds, globally.  And the UAE is a world leader in having a stable and well-evolved regulatory framework for the trading of blockchain assets.  Dubai in general and the DMCC free-zone in particular, is a natural home for a company that combines diamonds with NFT trading.”

Software AG opens entries from University students to 2021 Future Disruptors Award

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After a successful debut in 2020, Software AG (Frankfurt MDAX: SOW) has launched the second edition of Future Disruptors Award; a program for undergraduate students from UAE Universities. This year students will create and celebrate prototypes under the theme ‘Enriching lives, improving experiences’. The program is intended to spark creativity that delivers cutting-edge and innovative real-world solutions and play an active role in today’s digital world. Recognized projects will give students the opportunity to showcase their solutions at the 41st GITEX Technology Week.

The program aims to nurture innovation by bridging the gap between the current developments in the corporate world with increasing expectations of the ‘digitally-native’ workforce and citizens of tomorrow. Participants are encouraged to address real-world challenges through IoT, AI and machine learning based innovative models. Anchored by Software AG, the program empanels advocates of leading organisations in the region as members of the jury; the 2020 edition the program empanelled officials from DEWA, Smart Dubai and Du Telecom to name a few. This year as well, this stellar panel of experts will put entries through a rigorous process and reinforce the awards’ innovation agenda.

The program that spans a six-month schedule featuring extensive resources and indepth training on Software AG’s industry leading Cumulocity IoT platform led by the firm’s technical team.  In addition, mentoring sessions through the period from industry experts will further nurture students to unlock their potential. The highlight is its culmination at the 41st GITEX Technology Week in October this year.  Three finalists, chosen by a combination of jury and public voting get an exceptional opportunity provided by Software AG to present their prototype at this coveted event which attracts over 100,000+ visitors from 140+ countries.  shortlisted finalist teams will receive IoT training from the industry’s best, funding to build the prototype, presence at GITEX Technology Week and an enriching internship at Software AG with hands-on experience and projects and career opportunities to eligible interns.

Announcing the program, Rami Kichli – Vice President, Gulf and Levant, Software AG stated, “After the overwhelming response in its first year, we are thrilled to open the Award to all Universities in the country this year under the pre-requisite guidelines. We strongly feel that students are catalysts of a paradigm shift in any industry. This belief has led us at Software AG to create a sustained bridge platform for these students to distinguish them in today’s competitive workforce and rub shoulders with the corporate world. They inspire and dare us to think outside the norm which is the only way to break the corporate glass ceiling for all of us. I look forward to exciting knowledge sharing times ahead with all of them.”

Lusben Completes The Refit Of “Morning Glory” 48 Meter Perini Navi Sailing Superyacht

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Last week, Lusben concluded the refit of “Morning Glory”, Perini Navi’s 48-meter sailing superyacht, famous for having the Australian telecommunications magnate Rupert Murdoch as a previous owner.

The historic ketch, built in 1993 at the iconic Perini Navi shipyard in Viareggio, has been restored to her original splendor according to the wishes of her new Italian owner. Through the Forza 3 company in Milan, Lusben was chosen to carry out the ten-year refit of the yacht.

The Lusben team was responsible for painting the hull, living areas and part of the aft cockpit, as well as replacing the generators and refurbishing almost half of the teak deck. The deck work in particular has allowed the shipyard’s specialized workers to highlight their experience and know-how; more than 40% of the teak was replaced with slats of variable length from 4.5 to 6 meters, a notoriously complex operation. The standard slats are typically much shorter at just 3 meters, and work of this type requires greater care and precision on sailing boats than on motor boats.

The refit went on for a total of 5 months and involved almost 50 workers in total, including direct employees and external suppliers who worked in cooperation with the crew. The incredible team effort earned the expressed interest and satisfaction of the owner, who is now ready cruise the Mediterranean.

“Morning Glory” is the first of 6 Perini Navi boats to be launched this season. The remaining 5 are currently undergoing refits at the Lusben facilities in Livorno and Viareggio, planned for delivery to their owners in the coming weeks.

Despite the severe limitations imposed by the global pandemic, careful planning of activities has allowed Lusben to stay on shedule. Operations within the site’s premises have progressed without delay; in fact, this year the turnaround has been faster than usual. At the Viareggio site alone, the number of boats peaked at 23, from 28 to 50 meters, occupying the work stations at sea and on land.

Ramadan – Eid Trends – Crescent Jewellery from House of Biori

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This year let’s make Ramadan & Eid more meaningful by starting with what we wear and what we gift. Yes it is these small choices that make a big difference. 


Marking the onset of Ramadan, the crescent moon and star motifs have always been intertwined with sentiments of this holy occasion. House of Biori – a sustainable jewellery brand, offers an exquisite range of celestial ornaments that aptly reflect these sentiments in more ways than one. Complement your Ramadan-Eid look with fashionable moon & star jewellery that represents your spiritual side and also fulfills your desire to contribute towards the society and environment. 


House of Biori is a homegrown, evolving contemporary brand of handcrafted ethical fashion jewellery for men and women, created by artisans in sustainable communities.  

Shop House of Biori Ramadan – Eid Collection online on www.houseofbiori.com

Design International celebrates the opening of Silicon Central, designed by their team

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Silicon Central, designed by Design International, opens its doors to the public of Dubai who will experience the latest Lulu hypermarket, a new 9,000 sqm flagship store by Lulu Group.

The project, already considered a new landmark in Dubai, represents a step forward in the now well-established collaboration between Design International and Line Investments & Property FZE, the shopping mall division of Lulu Group International, a world-renowned purveyor of an international business portfolio that ranges from hypermarket operations to shopping mall development.

Strategically positioned 12 km from the city-centre and 15 km from Dubai Airport, Silicon Central is located at Dubai Silicon Oasis, the first eco sustainable district in Dubai focused on low carbon footprint, AI, and technology, masterminded by Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA).

The innovative design of the project is well embedded in the iconography of the place: 5 large dunes inspired by the natural movement of the desert sand frame large internal areas populated by plants, water, and natural light, recreating an oasis in the city. Lulu Group and Design International, assisted by local practice Eng. Adnan Saffarini Office, have targeted the highest certification possible – LEED Platinum – and therefore paid great attention to create an environmentally friendly project, using state-of-the-art technologies for waste management, energy savings, and a plethora of sustainable services provided within the mall, such as a bio-farming facility and electrical charging stations in the car-parking area.

Davide Padoa, Design International’s CEO, explains: “All of the parties involved in this project share the same values: the development of the community, as well as the desire to be at the forefront of style, technology and sustainable innovation, which is what Silicon Central stands out for.”

With a total of 81,500 sqm GLA and 3,500 car park spaces, Silicon Central will include 218 retail shops and services, 50 restaurant outlets with dedicated home delivery services, 12 cinema screens, 5,000 sqm fitness and a 7,000 sqm family entertainment centre. During its latest months of construction, Silicon Central has been adapted to integrate physical spaces with a digital application, moving boundaries to deliver a fully integrated customer experience both inside and outside the mall premises. Davide Padoa, CEO of Design International, summarizes saying: “Silicon Central is one of the first major projects that boldly symbolizes the rebirth, and the recovery to normal daily life, after the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic in one of the most dynamic cities in the world”.

Three scents to help you find your signature

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“Purchasing perfume is a delicate and very individual process so you must pace yourself, to find the perfect one,” says Julien Sprecher, Creative Director of Parfums de Marly. 

Finding the right perfume is nothing but a series of trial and error. To find your signature scent you’ll have to put your olfactory senses to work  – inhale, exhale and think about the notes, are these fruity, floral, musky or spicy? Only then will you be a step closer to finding your scent soulmate. Below are some of our favourite scents from the Parfums de Marly, to get you on your way.

Dimension Data joins SAP PartnerEdge Programme to deliver SAP solutions to clients across the Middle East

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Dimension Data today announced that it has joined the SAP PartnerEdge® programme, through which it will resell SAP solutions to organisations across the Middle East region. Through this engagement, Dimension Data can provide complete solutions that encompasses all facets required for successful implementations, including software licensing, implementation services, training and documentation, staffing and optimisation and support.

“Today, companies are seeking flexibility, and the SAP PartnerEdge Programme offers engagement models that fit the way we work and engage with our clients. The standardised fees, consistent benefits, harmonized discounts, and simplified contracts reduce administration and ensures the programme grows along with our business and ambitions,” says Mohammed Hejazi, Managing Director, Dimension Data Middle East

“Our focus for the next couple of months will be centered around SAP S/4 HANA and helping our clients migrate to the Cloud, SAP Customer Experience and eCommerce, Ariba, Integrated Business Planning (IBP), Human Capital Management (HCM), SuccessFactors (SF) and SAP S/4 HANA transformation,” says Hejazi.

“This is the right time to be investing in this partnership as our clients are revisiting their core business strategies and looking at how to use intelligent technologies and solutions to gain a competitive advantage in the market,” continues Hejazi.

As an SAP partner reselling of an array of SAP solutions to clients across the Middle East region, Dimension Data is well positioned to help organisations achieve their objectives of improved growth, lower costs and a better understanding of business processes.

“Our aim is to drive enterprise-wide digital transformation for our clients, and the SAP PartnerEdge Programme will enable us to help our clients optimise their SAP investments, by reducing costs, improving agility, flexibility and speed and ensuring complete compliance and governance,” concludes Hejazi.

Kodak Alaris Earns 5-Star Rating in 2021 CRN Partner Program Guide

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CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, has acknowledged Kodak Alaris in its 2021 Partner Program Guide. The annual guide provides a conclusive list of the most distinguished partner programs from leading technology companies that provide products and services through the IT Channel. The 5-Star rating is awarded to an exclusive group of companies that offer solution providers the best of the best, going above and beyond in their partner programs.

Given the importance of IT vendor channel programs, each year CRN develops its Partner Program Guide to provide the channel community with a detailed look at the partner programs offered by IT manufacturers, software developers, service companies, and distributors. Vendors are scored based on investments in program offerings, partner profitability, partner training, education and support, marketing programs and resources, sales support, and communication.

“Our customers face numerous challenges associated with inefficient, disconnected, manual document workflows,” said Don Lofstrom, President & General Manager of Kodak Alaris. “Partnering with Kodak Alaris helps our channel vendors find new ways to deliver solutions that accelerate digital transformation, while expanding their offerings and tapping into new sources of profitable revenue.”

With the widespread adoption of IoT and cloud-based solutions, Kodak Alaris has been increasingly focused on partner expansion. “Our goal is to continue to be a premier technology vendor for existing partners while establishing new relationships with the ISVs, SIs and developers who can help us deliver INfuse – our next generation, smart, connected scanning solution,” added Lofstrom.

Another reason partners are attracted to Kodak Alaris is the firm’s top-rated service and support organization, which has a 95% customer satisfaction rating and a 92% first-call completion rate. Their partner program has earned CRN’s 5-Star rating four times in recent years.

“As innovation continues to fuel the speed and intricacy of technology, solution providers need partners that can keep up and support their developing business.” said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. “CRN’s 2021 Partner Program Guide gives insight into the strengths of each organization’s program to recognize those that continually support and push positive change inside the IT channel.”

The 2021 Partner Program Guide will be featured in the April 2021 issue of CRN and online at www.CRN.com/PPG.

Fortinet Enhances Students’ Cybersecurity Awareness and Safety with Availability of Free Training and the Release of a New Children’s Book

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News Summary

Fortinet® (NASDAQ: FTNT), a global leader in broad, integrated and automated cybersecurity solutions, today announced continued commitment to educate students and underrepresented groups on cyber awareness and safety. In addition to Fortinet’s NSE 1 and NSE 2 training courses focused on fundamental cyber awareness providing an overview of threat actors and their tactics, Fortinet is releasing a children’s book designed to increase cyber awareness amongst children ranging from 7 to 12 years old. The book “Cyber Safe: A Dog’s Guide to Internet Security” was co-authored by Renee Tarun, Deputy CISO at Fortinet.  

John Maddison, EVP of Products and CMO at Fortinet said, “Fortinet’s mission is to secure people, devices and data everywhere. As part of this mission the company is committed to educating the global community on cybersecurity knowledge and skillsets regardless of age, background or life experiences as cybersecurity affects everyone. Fortinet’s NSE 1 and NSE 2 training courses are available for free as part of the NSE Training Institute and can be taken by anyone of any age, including children.”

Renee Tarun, Deputy CISO and VP Information Security at Fortinet and Co-Author of “Cyber Safe” said, “With more children being online for prolonged periods of time as a result of remote learning, it’s especially important to educate our youth about internet safety. The “Cyber Safe” book was written to help protect kids by teaching them from an early age how to behave and to keep themselves safe online.”

  • The release of this children’s book further builds on Fortinet’s NSE 1 and NSE 2 training courses’ focus on basic cyber awareness and an overview of threat actors and their tactics. These two courses – part of the eight-level NSE Certification Program – are free for anyone interested and is for all ages including young children.
  • The children’s book takes readers on a journey to learn how the Internet is a useful place, and how to stay secure. Lacey, the cyber smart dog teaches her friend Gabbi the cat how to use the Internet safely.
  • With a strong focus on seeding cybersecurity education at all levels, Fortinet will make copies of the book available to elementary and middle schools across the country to instill a strong foundation of cybersecurity at an early age as part of the NSE Training Institute’s initiatives to close the skills gap.

Instilling Foundational Cyber Awareness Knowledge from an Early Age

A year into the pandemic and many students are still learning virtually. With the onslaught of new devices on the home network linking students to teachers, threat actors have identified an open opportunity to execute ransomware attacks, target specific devices to steal information and compromise public school districts’ security defenses. Young children are especially a vulnerable target for cyber criminals due to their little understanding of all the bad actor tactics and methods and the detrimental impact of falling victim to these actors.

With the influx of online activity, it’s crucial for both parents and children from an early age to know basic cybersecurity best practices as many continue in a hybrid capacity through the end of this school year and into the next. “Cyber Safe: A Dog’s Guide to Internet Security” provides an easy to understand introduction to possible dangers for children connecting online for school, video games, streaming shows and more. For parents, the book includes a parent’s guide with details on what they should be aware of when their children are online.

To purchase the book, please visit here.