The Manoa-made mobile application for shoppers called ShopSuey has been updated with Chinatown maps, as this column indicated it would be, in June.
The free app, currently for iPhones, allows users to "like" where they are on Facebook, "follow" an establishment on Twitter and "check in" to marked venues.
ShopSuey users already are familiar with the app’s helpful features relating to Ala Moana Center, Kahala Mall, Waikiki Beach Walk and other major shopping centers, and even some large retailers such as Home Depot.
"Now that visitors and locals alike can find their way around Chinatown, we’re working to get individual merchants onboard so visitors can find their way to all the shops, galleries and restaurants that make the area unique," said founder George Chalekian.
"Plus, we’re giving every Chinatown merchant that signs up unlimited postings so they can increase foot traffic and revenue," all for free, he said.
Merchants can upload offers, special sales and secret coupon codes, and have a number of options for interacting with app users in real time while they’re in the vicinity, Chalekian said.
Hoping for a Mulligan
The future of Ige’s Restaurant & 19th Puka could be in question, though much can happen between now and the end of its lease in February.
Donna Cadiente, inventory specialist at Kraft Foods Hawaii, told the Star-Advertiser she had learned the lease of the large and popular eatery, watering hole and kanikapila gathering place "will not be renewed … (and) will close its doors in February 2014."
She offered thanks to owner Ron Ige and his employees for offering a venue for reunions, fundraisers and for local musicians to play to appreciative audiences.
"It was a great place to eat, to be seen, dance and just hang out," she said in an email.
Ige, who says he has operated in the space for 10 years, was reluctant to confirm any closing plans, saying "there’s always a chance for us" and that "nothing’s a done deal."
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On the Net:
» www.igesrestaurant.com
Accessing media coverage
The age-old question of how to get media coverage in this new age of media will be addressed at a free workshop from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Sept. 25.
Media panelists including Star-Advertiser Deputy City Editor Maureen O’Connell will offer tips on obtaining publicity for your nonprofit organization, public relations clients and the like.
The event is being presented by the Asian American Journalists Association Hawaii Chapter, the Public Relations Society of America Hawaii Chapter and state Sen. Glenn Wakai.
All will be revealed in Room 309 of the state Capitol, with free parking after 5 p.m. available via the Miller Street entrance.
While attendance is free, seating is limited and must be reserved by midnight Sept. 20.
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On the Net:
» RSVP at aajahawaii.eventbrite.com.
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Reach Erika Engle at 529-4303, erika@staradvertiser.com or on Twitter as @erikaengle.
