Retail
What Universal's Epic Universe Means for Disney & Florida's Economy
2024-12-15
Entertainment enthusiasts and economic watchers alike are closely observing the arrival of Universal's Epic Universe. This major expansion, set to open in May 2025, is set to reshape the local tourism landscape and potentially challenge the long-standing dominance of Walt Disney World.

"Epic Shift: Universal's Epic Universe vs. Disney's Reign"

Walt Disney World's Dominance

For decades, Walt Disney World Resort has reigned supreme in Central Florida. With four theme parks, two water parks, and destinations like Disney Springs, it attracts a staggering number of visitors. In 2023, Magic Kingdom alone recorded over 17 million visitors. This dominance is a testament to Disney's ability to create immersive experiences and captivate audiences.However, Disney is not resting on its laurels. At D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in August, Chairman Josh D’Amaro unveiled a series of theme park expansions. These include a “land” based on Disney villains and new attractions from the “Cars” film series. Additionally, a new land at Hollywood Studios will delve into “Monsters, Inc.” These expansions are set to enhance the Disney experience and keep visitors coming back.

Universal's Epic Universe: A Game Changer

Universal's Epic Universe, first announced in 2019, is set to open its doors in May 2025. Comprising five separate “worlds,” including Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter's Ministry of Magic, it promises to offer a unique and immersive experience.When Epic Universe opens, it will mark a major shift for the local tourism industry. Dennis L. Speigel, the founder of International Theme Park Services, Inc., believes that Epic Universe could attract a minimum of 6 million guests in its first year. This could potentially pull a day or more of visitors from other attractions, reshuffling how guests choose to spend their time and money.

The Competition and Its Implications

The competition between Universal Studios and Walt Disney World is heating up in Central Florida. Universal has upped the ante, and with Epic Universe, it is aiming to challenge Disney's supremacy. This competition is not only good for tourists but also for the local economy.Jakob Wahl, the President of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, believes that the competition leads to better products. When both companies are striving to outdo each other, it results in continuous innovation and improvement.Walt Disney World generated $40 billion in economic impact in 2022 and over 250,000 jobs. Epic Universe, according to a study, could generate $11.5 billion in direct and indirect economic benefits. This shows the significant impact that these theme parks have on the local economy.In conclusion, the battle between Universal and Disney is not just a battle for entertainment supremacy but also a battle that will shape the economic future of Central Florida. As Epic Universe opens its doors, the local tourism industry is poised for an epic shift.
Trump Picks Construction Executive Edward Walsh for US Ireland Ambassadorship
2024-12-15
Donald Trump's actions in appointing various individuals have been making waves. One such significant appointment is that of Edward Walsh as the United States ambassador to Ireland. Mr. Walsh, the president of the Walsh Company in New Jersey, brings with him a diverse set of experiences and skills.

Trump's Appointments and Their Global Reach

Edward Walsh: The New US Ambassador to Ireland

Donald Trump has nominated Edward Walsh to serve as the US ambassador to Ireland. Mr. Walsh is the head of the Walsh Company, a renowned construction firm based in New Jersey. In a statement announcing this decision, Trump described Walsh as a "great philanthropist in his local community" and a former chairman of a state school development board. He further added that Walsh is a champion golfer and a great asset for the ambassador of Ireland. The Walsh Company offers construction, project management, and environmental services. Mr. Walsh is also a member of the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey. This appointment comes as part of Trump's numerous nominations that need to be confirmed by the US Senate in the coming months. He will replace Claire Cronin, a Biden appointment who had previously served in Massachusetts state politics.

Another notable appointment by Trump is that of Ric Grenell as the "presidential envoy for special missions". Grenell, who was Trump's first-term ambassador to Germany, will work in some of the most challenging regions around the world, including Venezuela and North Korea. This shows Trump's focus on certain global hotspots and his efforts to address international issues through these appointees.

FBI director Christopher Wray's decision to resign before Trump takes office on January 20th has also drawn attention. This premature end to his tenure makes way for Kash Patel, a Trump ally whom the president-elect has nominated to head the chief US law enforcement agency. Trump believes that Patel was instrumental in "uncovering the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax".

Trump's Choices for Top Administration Roles

Donald Trump's choices for the top roles in his administration are quite diverse. It includes TV doctor Mehmet Oz, former WWE exec Linda McMahon, Kristi Noem the South Dakota governor who had an interesting incident with shooting the family dog and pet goat. And billionaire businessman Howard Lutnick, who has concerns about the presence of multinationals in Ireland and its impact on "making America great again". Norman Ornstein, a political scientist and resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, predicted the rise of Donald Trump in 2015. He now outlines the most remarkable of the US president's cabinet nominees and explains why Ireland has a valid reason to worry about its economic future.

These appointments by Trump not only have domestic implications but also have an impact on the international stage. Each appointment brings a unique perspective and set of skills, shaping the direction of the country in different ways.

Trump's approach to appointing individuals for key positions shows his determination to bring about changes and address various issues. Whether it's in the diplomatic realm or law enforcement, these appointees play a crucial role in the functioning of the government.

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"Joining Forces: Asphalt Contractor's Journey with 3D Milling"
2024-12-15
A year ago, the Buck Brothers were at a crossroads. They were firmly set on adding a milling machine to their yard, yet the final decision remained pending. The math pointed in the right direction, and their growing business made subcontracting less feasible. The enormity of the investment was not to be underestimated.

Unlock the Potential of 3D Milling and Software for Your Business

3D Milling: The Basics

This summer, I had the opportunity to witness a limited training on a Wirtgen 200 Fi. It was a brief encounter - just a single pass in a straight line for about twenty-five feet. But it sparked my curiosity. That's when Jacob Buck reached out, asking about 3D milling.The Buck Brothers were new to this process, having just ventured into milling in general. Adding 3D milling seemed like a leap of faith. On the jobsite that day, it was their first attempt at 3D milling.Jacob Buck, the Vice President of Buck Brothers, stood beside their new behemoth. "It's our first year doing it," he said. "So far, we're really satisfied."To achieve 3D milling with Trimble, they needed several components working together:- Total Station Tripod- Data Collector and Target on a rod with Trimble SiteWorks- Machine Display on the mill with Trimble RoadWorkds 3D- Machine Target ECM and Radio- Trimble Business Center (to build the 3D model)GPS may be familiar, but machine grade controls for 3D milling require a higher level of accuracy. Universal Total Station (UTS) provides millimeter-level accuracy compared to GPS's roughly golf ball-sized accuracy.The process begins with surveying the site using the total station and a data collector. The data is then brought back to the office to create a model, optimize it, and ensure no water holds. Once the 3D model is in the machine and the automatics are set, operators can focus on driving and directing while the mill follows the pre-designed model.3D milling is highly effective in fixing and repairing existing pavements. It allows contractors to get to the root cause and prevent future problems. The UTS accuracy is crucial for making those careful adjustments.

Boom In Business

The Buck Brothers knew there was demand for milling services, but they didn't expect the extent. They now receive around five hundred calls a week. To manage this growth, they adopted new software.HubSpot is their customer relationship manager (CRM), and OneCrew handles other aspects. This helped them scale up and understand their business better."We are getting like five hundred calls a week," said Buck. "People think I'm bull-shitting them, but I'm not. The new software has made everything run smoother."Software SolutionsThe Buck Brothers use two different software for backend management, but I was interested in a single-platform solution. PROcru's software combines job costing, scheduling, CRM, and more.Tom Hastings, the Technical Director of Software at PROcru, explained, "Right from the initial call, you'll pull three things: the contact, the company, and the site or services needed. This generates a new lead."The platform continues to track data throughout the process, from proposals to final outcomes. It also serves as a scheduling tool, allowing teams to see their assignments and track time and expenses."We can schedule by either service-line or by crews," said Hastings. "Employees can see their daily assignments on their phones, and it records all the information."Real-time comparison of projected and actual labor-hours and materials helps identify areas that need attention."I think the most beneficial portion of PROcru for contractors is the instantaneous job costing every day. Every day, the management team can see exactly how the crews are performing," said Hastings.For paving companies looking to break through barriers, exploring technological offerings like 3D milling and software solutions could be the key to growth.
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