Tribune news service Microsoft is lending a hand to a dozen companies working to spread affordable Internet access to underserved communities around the world. The initiative is related to Seattle-based Microsoft’s commitment, announced earlier this year, to donate US$1 billion in services over three years primarily to nonprofits. As part of that effort, Microsoft said it would seed projects …

  AFP Dior staged a catwalk show of its “Cruise collection” at the majestic Blenheim Palace in the Oxfordshire countryside, in a lavish event reflecting the growing importance of between-seasons collections. The fashion event at the 18th century stately home, the birthplace of Britain’s wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill, was a nod to the past for the French design house, …

  DUBAI / Emirates Business The Sharjah Ladies Club (SLC) concluded the third edition of its annual Ebriez Fashion Exhibition on Friday. Themed ‘Shop for Charity,’ the show enabled women to shop for stylish accessories before Ramadan and showcased the talents of designers. It also fulfilled an important charity function, with a portion of its proceeds going to The Big …