DAs Office Family Justice Center To Host Mid-October Health Fair Vacaville Reporter
DA’s Office, Family Justice Center To Host Mid-October Health Fair – Vacaville Reporter https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/das-office-family-justice-center-to-host-mid-october-health-fair-vacaville-reporter/
A free family event to promote healthy living in Solano County will be held in the coming days in Fairfield.
The Solano County District Attorney’s Office, which is teaming up with the Family Justice Center and Victims Empowerment Support Team (VEST), will host the Lori Frank Memorial Health Fair on Oct. 15.
The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the annex law, at 604 Empire St., and will include more than 60 local vendors.
The fair will feature a wide variety of activities for people of all ages. They include free flu shots, health screenings, tasty treats, music, K-9 demonstrations, pumpkin decorating, arts and crafts, local nonprofit service providers, health and wellness business vendors, public safety vehicle demonstrations, food trucks and much, much more, said Monica Martinez, a spokeswoman for the DA’s Office.
“We hope that you join us again this year as we celebrate our great community partnerships and healthy living throughout Solano County,” District Attorney Krishna Abrams said in a press statement. “With so many family-friendly activities to choose from, there will be something for everyone.”
For more information, call the Solano Family Justice Center, telephonecall 784-7635.
High School Football Scoreboard: Oct. 7-8 2022 | Football | News-Gazette.com News-Gazette.com
High School Football Scoreboard: Oct. 7-8, 2022 | Football | News-Gazette.com – News-Gazette.com https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/high-school-football-scoreboard-oct-7-8-2022-football-news-gazette-com-news-gazette-com/
The seventh weekend of the 2022 prep football regular season is upon us.
And news-gazette.com is your place to find scores involving area high school football teams.
Here is a full list of all the scores from Week 7 action:
Sublime Object Of Ideology: Korean Beauty Standards And Metaverse Koreatimes
Sublime Object Of Ideology: Korean Beauty Standards And Metaverse – Koreatimes https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/sublime-object-of-ideology-korean-beauty-standards-and-metaverse-koreatimes/
National 2022-10-08 11:43
Courtesy of Liane
By David Tizzard
Note: The following piece was part of a video essay created with Michelle Ju Sihyun. For the full interactive experience, watch it here on YouTube.
South Korean people are attractive. Especially the ones you see in the dramas, the music videos, the movies, and social media. Beauty here is off the charts. But such sky high beauty standards are not just expected from the country’s rich and famous. Nor are they only applied to women. Whether going to work, attending university, or just trying to live, Korean people young and old feel the pressure of having to look good.
A certain type of good.
There are standards as to what constitutes being beautiful in Korean society. These standards are not created by individuals, but instead by the community. And they are seen as a strength: a mark of personal development. Yet the expectations and pressure on ordinary Korean citizens have been very hard to live up to.
Now something new has emerged. Something more than human. Something challenging the very fabric of reality. Something that might change the conversation about beauty in Korea…forever.
Beauty and Lookism
The Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky said that beauty will save the world. Here in Korea, many feel like beauty is doing the opposite. It’s strangling them. But what is beauty? And just how do societies like South Korea determine what is or isn’t beautiful?
Standards of physical attractiveness differ by country, era, and culture. This points to beauty being, in part at least, socially constructed. Phenomenology tells us that there is a dialogue at play: our identities are formed by us perceiving how other people view us. Consciously and subconsciously we are affected by the people around us. We are reacting to others as we construct ourselves.
That’s why social media now plays a very important role in our perception of beauty. The more time we spend online looking at other people, particularly beautiful ones with features and skin enhanced by the latest filters, the more we think about our own appearance. So despite all the talk of communication and connectivity, the internet isn’t just us experiencing other people. The internet leads us straight back to us. To ourselves.
But why does beauty matter?
Research tells us that a person’s physical attractiveness is positively associated with their quality of social experiences. The prettier you are, the more advantages you will have in life. But what about if you are not pretty? The less beautiful you are, the more likely you are to face discrimination. And studies have shown that when people face discrimination based on their appearance, it can have strong negative effects on their mental health. It can even lead to suicide. Something modern South Korea sadly knows far too much about.
Discrimination based on beauty is common almost everywhere. While some of us might have been raised being told not to judge a book by its cover, in South Korea the opposite is often true. In this hyper-competitive society driven by the experience of a compressed post-colonial modernity, it has taken on an even more serious role. People are frequently reminded that first impressions matter ― including their face, clothes, and hair. A person’s external image carries huge importance. Like age, gender, and wealth, in South Korea, beauty can determine your life, your career, and your success.
This focus on aesthetic experience as a way of securing social and cultural capital in South Korea is called “Lookism.” For some, lookism and a focus on beauty is a positive thing. It is a method of improving and bettering oneself, with its origins in the traditional Confucian ideas of self-cultivation.
Gwansang is a traditional Korean concept which believes you can see someone’s fortune in their face. The outward appearance is everything and reveals our destiny. There are even stories of the biggest Korean companies having people specializing in such skills present during interviews ― determining through the face alone whether a person will bring success to the firm.
To others, lookism is a far more modern issue, driven by economic pressures, the labour market, and the weight of the entertainment industry. Plastic surgery, seen this way, is a sign of strength in South Korea, not of weakness. It’s a way to present the best side of yourself. To make a great first impression. And to show that you care about the public gaze.
In this way, beauty has become a surrogate for qualifications or experience. Instead of paying for training, citizens can instead invest in cosmetics or plastic surgery to help them better fit in and advance up the social ladder. They do this not by being themselves, but rather meeting the standards of beauty society expects of them.
Thus, the uniform standards of appearance are maintained. Big eyes, pale skin, a small face, and a slender body. Reinforced through the media and then exaggerated to sometimes impossible levels by filters.
Society demands you be hot…or at least try. And that trying is really important. In South Korea, for many people, looking good is a duty. Not a choice. It’s part of the social contract. And some people are much better at navigating this world than others.
Virtual Influencers:
Lucy is one of the many new virtual influencers, celebrities, and K-pop stars you can now find in the country. She works for Lotte Home Shopping. She’s huge on social media. She has a hundred thousand people following her. She’s all over the latest trends. But she’s not real. Not like you and me anyway. But what makes something real?
These virtual influencers like Lucy have Wikipedia pages, verified Instagram accounts, and they appear in commercials. They make songs and hold concerts. And what can be realer than achieving the dream of working for South Korea’s most powerful companies?
Lucy and these other virtual influencers are citizens of the metaverse. But some of you might be asking, what is the metaverse? The answer to that is both very easy, and very difficult. The metaverse forces us to question where we draw the line of what is and isn’t real, blurring the line between fiction and reality.
The basic idea is that our current 2D internet experience becomes 3D. So instead of just looking at a flat computer or phone screen, we actually become part of the screen in front of us. We enter the computer. Abandoning our physical reality for a digital one. Becoming virtual pioneers and inhabitants of a new world.
Rather than the speculative science fiction of The Matrix or Black Mirror, the metaverse is seen as part of our natural evolution as humans. Just like we went from living in the water, to trees, then caves, villages, towns, cities, and finally that super cramped but Netflix-having apartment all of your own, the metaverse is the next step.
We once believed that whatever intelligence computers had, they never had the faculty of consciousness. They might have raw power, but they would never master things which we held to contain the essence of humanity, such as chess or music. These beliefs have since been dramatically shattered. So while there is certainly skepticism about the applications of the metavese, we would do well to remember that computers have continually surpassed everything we once thought they were capable and not capable of.
The metaverse could well be the future of information, entertainment, education, and business. A revolutionary movement forward in becoming new humans. The birth of Homo Deus.
Metaverse in Korea
In the classrooms, students at Korean universities have begun attending orientation sessions in the metaverse. Here, alongside the pressure of starting a new chapter of their lives, young people have been carefully selecting their hair styles, faces, and eyes hoping to create a positive first virtual impression and impress their classmates in the digital world.
And while previously we tried to get close to the rich and famous through backstage exclusives, gossip magazines, and celebrity tours, through the metaverse, South Korean production companies have found a far more immersive way to provide such sensations. They have recreated K-drama sets in virtual showrooms. Allowing viewers to digitally inhabit these worlds and become characters in their favourite shows. Experiencing for themselves the whirlwind that is the K-drama life.
The music industry is not being left behind. We have already seen K-pop groups debut with virtual members alongside their real counterparts. And following the popular reality program ‘Produce 101’, similar competitions have been held online with popular female virtual influencers. These digital women held fan meetings, completed personality tests, and even uploaded compilations of their cutest sneezes for their devoted fans.
But what exactly are these new idols? Are they the next Blackpink or BTS ready to take the world by storm? Or simply soulless dancing shadows, the products of their creators?
A Search for Stability
Our current world has abandoned trust and stability. We now live in a post-truth era, characterized by constant change and liquid modernity. Strangely, our desire to create a secular environment based only on facts and rationality has meant none of these seem to exist anymore.
But as humans, we are always searching for our place in the world. Whether physically or psychologically. And so, despite not being real, virtual influencers like Lucy and digital worlds like the metaverse give us a very ironic sense of security amidst all the other changes we’re experiencing.
They’re code. Secure. Rigid. And Pure. Trustworthy combinations of 1s and 2s that make us feel warm and safe. And that’s because the metaverse...
50 Hidden Gems On Amazon That Seem Expensive But Are Actually Cheap As Hell Inverse
50 Hidden Gems On Amazon That Seem Expensive But Are Actually Cheap As Hell – Inverse https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/50-hidden-gems-on-amazon-that-seem-expensive-but-are-actually-cheap-as-hell-inverse/
Shopping
We only recommend products we love and that we think you will, too. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team.
I love it when someone walks into my home for the first time and admires one of my many bargain finds, clearly thinking that I spent a fortune on it. I shouldn’t tell them, of course, that I didn’t. The smart play is to let them think I dropped big bucks while keeping my discoveries to myself. But I can’t help it. I always spill. Half the fun of shopping, I think, is finding a bargain. And half the fun of finding a bargain is sharing it with someone who will also enjoy owning it.
I am not talking about the kind of bargain that’s a cheap knock-off or counterfeit. I like things that are authentically awesome. These are products that were designed to be effective at what they do, and high-quality, but also completely affordable for those of us who don’t own three sports cars and a summer home. There are more of them out there than you would imagine, too. In fact, here are 50 hidden gems on Amazon that seem expensive but are actually cheap as hell. I’m sure you will find something that will make your visitors think you spent a fortune. Tell them you found a bargain… or let them believe what they like. That’s up to you.
01
This collection of charming ceramic pots for your succulents
Create a striking display of succulents on a window sill with this collection of six small ceramic pots, each in a different unique design. They are sized for small cuttings or tiny succulents, and each comes with a bamboo tray to catch water as it drains through the bottom.
“These are just about the cutest collection of unique little pots I’ve ever seen,” said one reviewer. “They are excellent for starting seeds, especially slow-growing ones.”
02
This workhorse chef’s knife that cuts like it’s super expensive
A fine kitchen knife can be a major investment. Or, in the case of this 8-inch chef knife, it can look and feel like you spent a tidy sum but cost less than a couple of cocktails. The blade is created from one solid piece of high-carbon steel, balanced, and razor sharp. It comes with a knife sharpener and blade cover to keep the edge honed and protected.
03
A quiet cool-mist humidifier for small spaces
This small, easy-to-operate humidifier delivers instant cool-mist humidity to your airspace at the turn of a dial. It holds 1.7 liters of water so it will run for up to nine hours, moistening the air so that it’s easy on your sinuses and lungs all night or day. Over 8,000 people give it five stars and use it for themselves, babies, or even orchids and other plant friends.
04
These LED lights that make your car’s interior so flash
Trick out the interior of your ride with these LED car lights that plug into the lighter and let you control the scene with an app on your phone. You can pick from 16 million colors (yes) and 30 modes, and even set it to sync with your music. They peel and stick under the dash, along the console, or wherever you like and turn any drive into a party.
“I love setting the mood in my car as well as being able to see items that have fallen on my floor mats without getting a flashlight,” said one practical reviewer.
05
A set of packing cubes for a suitcase you can live out of
Organize your clothes into these sleek and affordable packing cubes as you pack and your entire trip will go more smoothly. Dressing from these cubes is so easy you won’t need to unpack, and if your suitcase ever spills open you won’t have to repack everything piecemeal. There are four cubes in graduating sizes to fit everything from underwear to sweaters and a dirty laundry bag. Choose from nine colors.
06
A luxuriously soft set of sheets that looks so expensive
Dress your bed in this silky, colorful sheet set and it will feel like a luxury upgrade. But it’s so affordable! The soft, microfiber fabric is breathable, cooling in summer and warm in the winter, and goes into the washer and dryer without a problem. There are beautiful colors to choose from and over 59,000 people gave them a perfect five stars.
07
A set of elegant stemless wine glasses for $15
Stemless wine glasses are so much easier to live with than stemmed ones. They don’t knock over as easily and can go right in the dishwasher for cleanup. This set of four holds 15 ounces each, has a flat bottom, and is a versatile shape that brings out the best in many wines.
“As someone whose hand gestures become proportionately exuberant to the number of glasses of Pinot Noir, these stemless classic beauties are the perfect solution for eliminating the tabletop bowling ball down the alley kind of skids and crashes that stemmed glasses present for me,” said one eloquent reviewer.
08
The diffuser that’s also an alarm clock & speaker
This little essential oil diffuser is here to command your bedside table. It will fill the air you breathe, as you sleep, with a cool mist that’s soothing to your throat and sinuses and emit a calming scent if you add essential oils to the water. It’s also a Bluetooth speaker so it will play white noise, calming music, or read a book to you as you drift off. And the built-in alarm clock will wake you in the morning.
09
A big canvas toiletry bag so your personal care items are packed & ready
Instead of running around before a trip trying to remember everything from shampoo to medications, keep this smart canvas toiletry bag packed with travel-sized essentials. It’s compact yet roomy and drops easily into your suitcase. When you arrive at your destination, everything you need to stay groomed and healthy will be easy to find. There are six colors to choose from, the big vegan leather handle hangs your gear from a bathroom hook, and an internal pocket is a great place to stash small items.
10
This bifold wallet that’s slim, super functional, & totally affordable
With seven card pockets and a metal clip for cash, this slim bifold money clip wallet handles all your essentials easily, but also fits in a breast pocket and won’t bulge out your slim jeans. It comes in eight colors.
“Not only is it an attractive, well-designed wallet, it really is amazing how functional it is. There are enough slots to hold all of the essential needs you want, a great built-in money clip, and an outside clear covered pocket for my [ID],” said one reviewer.
11
This sleek charging station for tidy & fast power-ups
If you live amidst cable chaos, plug in this USB charging station and end that. End, too, the constant plugging and unplugging of devices sharing one outlet. This kit charges four gadgets at once from one plug and comes with five short cords so it won’t make a snarled mess doing it. LED indicators on each section alert you when a device is charged. And the whole thing fits in a small footprint on your desk.
12
A handheld frother for yummy lattes & foamy matchas at home
Love your café for the foamy lattes, matcha, and cappuccinos? You can do that at home, without getting dressed or forking over too much cash, with this electric milk frother. It runs on batteries, spins fast enough to turn warm or cold milk of all kinds into a delicious foam, and stands up on its own on the counter.
“The froth has a light, creamy, and airy texture and there’s just something a little extra special about my first cup of coffee each day being topped with it,” said one fan.
13
A set of plush cotton bath towels that’s soft & affordable
Refresh your bathroom with brand new towels without going broke in the process. This set of eight 100% cotton bath towels — two bath towels, two hand towels, and four washcloths — is lush and soft, comes in 11 colors for the fresh new look of your choice, and will get softer and more absorbent the more you use and wash them.
14
A white noise machine that helps you sleep & focus
When distractions — in the form of sounds you can’t control or your own thoughts — keep you from sleeping or focusing, turn on your favorite sound from the six options in this portable white noise machine. It will drown out noisy neighbors, traffic, the snoring of your bedmate, or whatever is bothering you with calming sounds like a babbling brook, rain, or the ocean.
“This little machine is a ticket to a better night’s sleep,” said one reviewer. “Helps to drown out my husband’s snoring. [I] love the RAIN sound.”
15
A pet brush that catches shedding fur before it blankets your home
Brush your shedding pet with this de-shedding tool and get that fur captured before it blankets the couch. The 4-inch stainless steel blade reaches into the undercoat to remove loose hair. Pets love this like humans love a spa treatment and the ergonomic handle is easy on your hands, too. Plus, it’s cheaper than more expensive brands.
“Both our labs … loved it!” said one reviewer. “[It] brushed out huge wads of fur with no fuss, no pain, no vacuum! [The dogs] act like it feels like a good scratching!”
16
A 3-pack of woven nylon iPhone chargers that doesn’t cost a fortune
These three iPhone chargers are high quality — made from braided nylon that is flexible and resists splitting and abrasion, and with fast charging capability — yet completely affordable. The cords are 6 feet long so you can reach the plug behind the bed and reviewers gave them over 18,000 five-star ratings.
17
This waterproof Bluetooth speaker that plays all day on a charge
This Bluetooth speaker might be small, but it is powerful and feature-rich. It’s waterproof enough to take to the beach or play in the shower and will run for 1,500 minutes on a single charge. You can pair two of them together for stereo sound or grab one and take it to the pool. Almost 19,000 people gave it five stars.
18
These ...
Chinas Once-Popular Crypto Exchange Huobi Global Bought By About Capital Yahoo Finance
China’s Once-Popular Crypto Exchange Huobi Global Bought By About Capital – Yahoo Finance https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/chinas-once-popular-crypto-exchange-huobi-global-bought-by-about-capital-yahoo-finance/
Huobi Global, once China’s top crypto exchange, has been retooling itself since exiting from the home market following Beijing’s crypto ban. Now the company is nearing a takeover by an investment firm.
Huobi Global announced today that its controlling shareholder has completed the transaction to sell its entire stake to About Capital, a Hong Kong-based fund management firm started by Ted Chen, who founded China’s hedge fund giant Greenwoods Asset Management. This confirms an earlier report by Bloomberg saying the founder Leon Li was looking to sell his majority stake for over $1 billion, valuing the exchange at $3 billion.
Founded in 2013, Huobi Global rode China’s crypto boom before Beijing declared all crypto transactions illegal in 2021. The parent firm Huobi Group now operates an umbrella of crypto-related entities, including its flagship exchange Huobi Global, its venture capital arm Huobi Ventures, and a crypto cloud service.
Huobi Global and rival Binance said they’ve stopped servicing China-based customers since the ban. While Binance kicked off global expansion well before the crackdown, Huobi Global appears to have been hit hard by the regulatory change as a big chunk of its users were still in China. The trading platform was reportedly laying off 30% of its workforce this summer after its retreat from China dampened revenues.
About Capital’s buyout won’t affect Huobi’s “core operation and business management teams,” the announcement says. The exact amount of the deal wasn’t disclosed, but it looks like the new parent is providing the much-needed capital to help the exchange ride out its financial troubles and go global in the midst of a crypto rout.
According to About Capital, Huobi Global will “embrace a series of new international brand promotion and business expansion initiatives, including a global strategic advisory board led by leading industry figures, the injection of sufficient capital in margin and risk provision fund, as well as measures to further enhance competitiveness.”
“Following Huobi’s exit from the Chinese mainland market in 2021, we have accelerated our globalization push amidst a challenging market environment, which adds to the impetus for Huobi to seek a new shareholding structure with a global vision and international resources,” Li says in a statement. “We believe the successful acquisition by About Capital vehicle will contribute to Huobi’s global expansion in both aspects.”
Report: Big U.S. Banks Are Stiffing Account Takeover Victims Krebs On Security Krebs On Security
Report: Big U.S. Banks Are Stiffing Account Takeover Victims – Krebs On Security – Krebs On Security https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/report-big-u-s-banks-are-stiffing-account-takeover-victims-krebs-on-security-krebs-on-security/
When U.S. consumers have their online bank accounts hijacked and plundered by hackers, U.S. financial institutions are legally obligated to reverse any unauthorized transactions as long as the victim reports the fraud in a timely manner. But new data released this week suggests that for some of the nation’s largest banks, reimbursing account takeover victims has become more the exception than the rule.
The findings came in a report released by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), who in April 2022 opened an investigation into fraud tied to Zelle, the “peer-to-peer” digital payment service used by many financial institutions that allows customers to quickly send cash to friends and family.
Zelle is run by Early Warning Services LLC (EWS), a private financial services company which is jointly owned by Bank of America, Capital One, JPMorgan Chase, PNC Bank, Truist, U.S. Bank, and Wells Fargo. Zelle is enabled by default for customers at over 1,000 different financial institutions, even if a great many customers still don’t know it’s there.
Sen. Warren said several of the EWS owner banks — including Capital One, JPMorgan and Wells Fargo — failed to provide all of the requested data. But Warren did get the requested information from PNC, Truist and U.S. Bank.
“Overall, the three banks that provided complete data sets reported 35,848 cases of scams, involving over $25.9 million of payments in 2021 and the first half of 2022,” the report summarized. “In the vast majority of these cases, the banks did not repay the customers that reported being scammed. Overall these three banks reported repaying customers in only 3,473 cases (representing nearly 10% of scam claims) and repaid only $2.9 million.”
Importantly, the report distinguishes between cases that involve straight up bank account takeovers and unauthorized transfers (fraud), and those losses that stem from “fraudulently induced payments,” where the victim is tricked into authorizing the transfer of funds to scammers (scams).
A common example of the latter is the Zelle Fraud Scam, which uses an ever-shifting set of come-ons to trick people into transferring money to fraudsters. The Zelle Fraud Scam often employs text messages and phone calls spoofed to look like they came from your bank, and the scam usually relates to fooling the customer into thinking they’re sending money to themselves when they’re really sending it to the crooks.
Here’s the rub: When a customer issues a payment order to their bank, the bank is obligated to honor that order so long as it passes a two-stage test. The first question asks, Did the request actually come from an authorized owner or signer on the account? In the case of Zelle scams, the answer is yes.
Trace Fooshee, a strategic advisor in the anti money laundering practice at Aite-Novarica, said the second stage requires banks to give the customer’s transfer order a kind of “sniff test” using “commercially reasonable” fraud controls that generally are not designed to detect patterns involving social engineering.
Fooshee said the legal phrase “commercially reasonable” is the primary reason why no bank has much — if anything — in the way of controlling for scam detection.
“In order for them to deploy something that would detect a good chunk of fraud on something so hard to detect they would generate egregiously high rates of false positives which would also make consumers (and, then, regulators) very unhappy,” Fooshee said. “This would tank the business case for the service as a whole rendering it something that the bank can claim to NOT be commercially reasonable.”
Sen. Warren’s report makes clear that banks generally do not pay consumers back if they are fraudulently induced into making Zelle payments.
“In simple terms, Zelle indicated that it would provide redress for users in cases of unauthorized transfers in which a user’s account is accessed by a bad actor and used to transfer a payment,” the report continued. “However, EWS’ response also indicated that neither Zelle nor its parent bank owners would reimburse users fraudulently induced by a bad actor into making a payment on the platform.”
Still, the data suggest banks did repay at least some of the funds stolen from scam victims about 10 percent of the time. Fooshee said he’s surprised that number is so high.
“That banks are paying victims of authorized payment fraud scams anything at all is noteworthy,” he said. “That’s money that they’re paying for out of pocket almost entirely for goodwill. You could argue that repaying all victims is a sound strategy especially in the climate we’re in but to say that it should be what all banks do remains an opinion until Congress changes the law.”
UNAUTHORIZED FRAUD
However, when it comes to reimbursing victims of fraud and account takeovers, the report suggests banks are stiffing their customers whenever they can get away with it. “Overall, the four banks that provided complete data sets indicated that they reimbursed only 47% of the dollar amount of fraud claims they received,” the report notes.
How did the banks behave individually? From the report:
-In 2021 and the first six months of 2022, PNC Bank indicated that its customers reported 10,683 cases of unauthorized payments totaling over $10.6 million, of which only 1,495 cases totaling $1.46 were refunded to consumers. PNC Bank left 86% of its customers that reported cases of fraud without recourse for fraudulent activity that occurred on Zelle.
-Over this same time period, U.S. Bank customers reported a total of 28,642 cases of unauthorized transactions totaling over $16.2 million, while only refunding 8,242 cases totaling less than $4.7 million.
-In the period between January 2021 and September 2022, Bank of America customers reported 81,797 cases of unauthorized transactions, totaling $125 million. Bank of America refunded only $56.1 million in fraud claims – less than 45% of the overall dollar value of claims made in that time.
–Truist indicated that the bank had a much better record of reimbursing defrauded customers over this same time period. During 2021 and the first half of 2022, Truist customers filed 24,752 unauthorized transaction claims amounting to $24.4 million. Truist reimbursed 20,349 of those claims, totaling $20.8 million – 82% of Truist claims were reimbursed over this period. Overall, however, the four banks that provided complete data sets indicated that they reimbursed only 47% of the dollar amount of fraud claims they received.
Fooshee said there has long been a great deal of inconsistency in how banks reimburse unauthorized fraud claims — even after the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CPFB) came out with guidance on what qualifies as an unauthorized fraud claim.
“Many banks reported that they were still not living up to those standards,” he said. “As a result, I imagine that the CFPB will come down hard on those with fines and we’ll see a correction.”
Fooshee said many banks have recently adjusted their reimbursement policies to bring them more into line with the CFPB’s guidance from last year.
“So this is heading in the right direction but not with sufficient vigor and speed to satisfy critics,” he said.
Seth Ruden is a payments fraud expert who serves as director of global advisory for digital identity company BioCatch. Ruden said Zelle has recently made “significant changes to its fraud program oversight because of consumer influence.”
“It is clear to me that despite sensational headlines, progress has been made to improve outcomes,” Ruden said. “Presently, losses in the network on a volume-adjusted basis are lower than those typical of credit cards.”
But he said any failure to reimburse victims of fraud and account takeovers only adds to pressure on Congress to do more to help victims of those scammed into authorizing Zelle payments.
“The bottom line is that regulations have not kept up with the speed of payment technology in the United States, and we’re not alone,” Ruden said. “For the first time in the UK, authorized payment scam losses have outpaced credit card losses and a regulatory response is now on the table. Banks have the choice right now to take action and increase controls or await regulators to impose a new regulatory environment.”
Sen. Warren’s report is available here (PDF).
There are, of course, some versions of the Zelle fraud scam that may be confusing financial institutions as to what constitutes “authorized” payment instructions. For example, the variant I wrote about earlier this year began with a text message that spoofed the target’s bank and warned of a pending suspicious transfer.
Those who responded at all received a call from a number spoofed to make it look like the victim’s bank calling, and were asked to validate their identities by reading back a one-time password sent via SMS. In reality, the thieves had simply asked the bank’s website to reset the victim’s password, and that one-time code sent via text by the bank’s site was the only thing the crooks needed to reset the target’s password and drain the account using Zelle.
None of the above discussion involves the risks affecting businesses that bank online. Businesses in the United States do not enjoy the same fraud liability protection afforded to consumers, and if a banking trojan or clever phishing site results in a business account getting drained, most banks will not reimburse that loss.
This is why I have always and will continue to urge small business owners to conduct their online banking affairs only from a dedicated, access restricted and security-hardened device — and preferably a non-Windows machine.
For consumers, the same old advice remains the best: Watch your bank statements like a hawk, a...
Tesla’s Optimus And The Problem With Humanoids – BBC https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/teslas-optimus-and-the-problem-with-humanoids-bbc/
Image source, Tesla
Image caption,
Optimus was unveiled at Tesla’s AI (artificial-intelligence) day
By Zoe Kleinman
Technology editor
Fans of Tesla and Elon Musk were enthralled by the unveiling of Optimus, a prototype humanoid robot, in California last week.
I also enjoyed the theatrics – but I’m not alone in wondering why, apart from the wow factor, Optimus had to be human-like.
And while the fans hate any perceived criticism, Mr Musk himself has said Optimus is nowhere near market-ready.
The argument made for humanoids is they are best equipped to work with human tools, in human environments. People may feel more comfortable interacting with something that looks like a bit like them. And of course, they look great.
But how practical are they?
Legs v wheels
“A lot of companies work in the area of humanoids because it’s interesting for the public to see,” Owen Nicholson, chief executive of Slamcore, which specialises in sensor-driven vision, says.
“But wheel-based robots and even drones are so much easier to control. The amount of work that goes into just getting a humanoid to stand upright is huge.”
Media caption,
Some of the falls experienced by competitors in the Darpa Robotics Challenge
The robotics behind Optimus look sound – Tesla is not exactly a novice at all this – but, Mr Nicholson says, by its release, the machine will have evolved into something physically more practical.
“I’d put money on them having more wheel-based robots,” he adds.
Reporting robots
In my job, I have seen lots of robots – all shapes and sizes – designed to clean, care for the elderly, teach, perform surgery, work as receptionists and tour guides, play Scrabble and chess, sing and dance, mix cocktails, pack shopping, deliver groceries, have sex, perform search and rescue and build cars.
You name it, somebody is probably trying to build a robot for it.
Some of them work better than others – and demonstrations rarely go to plan.
But what the sci-fi films fail to show is all the wires, the pre-programming and the very brief battery life. As I discovered when trying to film them, early football-playing robots could last for only 10 minutes.
Image caption,
Trying to make friends with Sophia the Robot
I have had excruciating “conversations” with conversational robots, watched many devices fail to complete the tasks they were designed for, and seen the panic in the eyes of the executives in the room when a developer brandishing a bunch of wires says: “We just need to reboot.”
But robots have advanced considerably faster than humans in the past decade. The robots of 2022 are far more skilled than those I first saw, in 2008, whereas I have acquired little more than a few grey hairs.
Time and time again though, the most impressive performers tend not to look like people. Precision-surgery robots, warehouse robots, window-cleaning robots – none of them is remotely humanoid.
If the face fits
Expectation may be part of the problem.
Humanoids might be expected to function like people, performing a variety of different tasks – mowing the lawn, making a sandwich, cuddling a baby.
But Prof Helen Hastie, of the National Robotarium, in Edinburgh, says robots are a very long way off being able to multi-task.
“What’s most important is that the robot is fit for the task it is designed for,” she says.
Boston Dynamics’ doglike quadruped Spot is ideally suited to rough terrains, such as bombed-out buildings – but a robot designed to, say, work in a kitchen work may need no legs at all.
Robots designed to work with vulnerable people, for example in care homes, might be better suited to looking a bit more human – but not too much.
It is a phenomenon known as the uncanny valley – if something looks human-like but not believably so, it becomes unnerving and even frightening.
As Prof Helen Hastie says: “If it’s too human-like, it will put off the human.”
Day By Day: The Government Center Mural Project Yahoo News
Day By Day: The Government Center Mural Project – Yahoo News https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/day-by-day-the-government-center-mural-project-yahoo-news/
The Daily Beast
Renowned Artist Dies at Airport as He’s About to Board a Plane
Jean-Marc Zaorski/Gamma-Rapho via GettyAcclaimed illustrator Kim Jung Gi died in Paris on Monday after experiencing chest pains as he was about to board a plane.“After having done so much for us, you can now put down your brushes,” his collaborator Hyun Jin Kim said in a statement. Kim, 47, suffered a heart attack after finishing his last scheduled European appearance, the statement on his Instagram page said. He was at the airport on his way to New York, where he was set to appear at Comic Con,
Reuters Videos
Comic Con kicks off in New York
STORY: Welcome to this year’s New York Comic Con (Lance Fensterman, president of ReedPop)”If you’re a geek or, you know one, this is the spot to be. It’s kind of like nerd prom. You know, everybody gets dressed up, they come out with their friends. They get to do all the fun things. Nearly 200,000 fans will pass through the Javits Centerand will be able to join one of the 300 panels, screenings and special events(Lance Fensterman, president of ReedPop)“There’s about 700 artists that are in our artist alley area, sketching and drawing and doing commissions. There’s about a thousand vendors on the show floor. There’s everything from Netflix all the way to vintage toy collectors that are selling vintage toys and everything in between”First-time attendee Hannah Hunt got a chance to meet the people working behind the scenes(Hannah Hunt, attendee)“I’ve always, like, read comic books and stuff, but really I just wanted to see who really behind all of that, like who are the faces behind all of that.”
Tourists Ride Holiday High With Short Trips Chinadaily.com.cn China Daily
Tourists Ride Holiday High With Short Trips – Chinadaily.com.cn – China Daily https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/tourists-ride-holiday-high-with-short-trips-chinadaily-com-cn-china-daily/
Visitors walk through an attraction in a park in Zaozhuang, Shandong province, on Oct 8, 2022. [PhOTO by HONG XIAODONG/FOR CHINA DAILY]
More travelers turn to self-driving, camping options for major vacation
Travelers across China are showing a growing preference for camping and self-driving tours on the back of the increasing popularity of short-distance trips, with many of those made over the just-concluded National Day holiday, according to the latest industry figures.
About 65 percent of Trip.com users traveled to places near their work areas and homes during the seven-day holiday — from Oct 1 to Friday — with expenditures on related tours rising by 30 percent from the same period last year, according to figures from the online travel group.
Camping remained popular among travelers during the holiday, with orders for camping-related tour packages via its platform growing tenfold year-on-year, according to the group.
Nearly 80 percent of the camping tour destinations were near users’ workplaces or homes, while about 15 percent involved travel to neighboring cities or suburban areas, the group said. Average expenditure on camping was about 650 yuan ($91.30), up 30 percent from spending during the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday in September, it said.
Travelers aged 30 to 39 favored camping tours organized via its platform, especially families with children. About 83 percent of these travelers stayed overnight at campsites and enjoyed leisure activities such as fruit picking offered by local farms, according to the group.
Chen Yi, 31, spent two days and one night at a farm in suburban Beijing with her family this National Day holiday. She said it was a relaxing trip.
“We were concerned about COVID-19 control measures that may cause some uncertainty in work-related matters after the holiday, so we decided to spend the break in Beijing rather than visit other places,” she said. “It was my husband’s idea to go camping. He is a fan of such niche activities.”
Chen said that their camping site was within farmland about two hours’ drive from downtown. “The air is quite fresh there and the owner of the farmland is also friendly and generous. We made quite good memories there.”
Deng Ning, vice-dean of the School of Tourism Sciences at Beijing International Studies University, said that people showed more preference for short-distance tours during the seven-day break mainly in consideration of any sporadic COVID-19 outbreak. They also favored self-driving tours and some niche destinations as their main concern was to avoid crowds.
A number of destinations became top draws during the recent national holiday, such as Nan’ao Island in Shantou, Guangdong province and Meizhou Island in Putian, Fujian province, attracting travelers with breathtaking coastal views, figures from travel agencies showed.
Prices of hotel accommodation also rose briskly over the recent vacation period, with expenditure on hotels for short-distance tours increasing 10 percent over the break, according to Trip.com figures.
Wu Ruoshan, a visiting researcher at the Tourism Research Center of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that travelers are changing their travel options and consumption preferences, focusing more on safety amid epidemic control work.
It is necessary for travel agencies and companies to be aware of travelers’ safety considerations on top of their tourism offerings, he said.
Newsom To Call Special Legislative Session Over Gas Prices 69News WFMZ-TV
Newsom To Call Special Legislative Session Over Gas Prices – 69News WFMZ-TV https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/newsom-to-call-special-legislative-session-over-gas-prices-69news-wfmz-tv/
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom said Friday he will call a special session of the state Legislature in December to pass a new tax on oil companies as punishment for what he calls “rank price gouging.”
Newsom told reporters on Friday that the special session will begin Dec. 5 after all the votes have been counted from the November elections and newly elected lawmakers are sworn in.
Gas prices soared across the nation this year because of high inflation, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and ongoing disruptions in the global supply chain. But while gas prices have recovered somewhat nationwide, they have continued to spike in California, hitting an average of $6.39 per gallon on Friday — $2.58 higher than the national average.
“This is just rank price gouging,” Newsom told reporters on Friday. “It’s time to get serious. I’m sick of this.”
Kevin Slagle, vice president for the Western States Petroleum Association, said “a better use of the special session would be to take a hard look at decades of California energy policy and what they mean to consumers and our economy.”
“If this was anything other than a political stunt, the Governor wouldn’t wait two months and would call the special session now, before the election,” Slagle said. “This industry is ready right now to work on real solutions to energy costs and reliability if that is what the Governor is truly interested in.”
Several states chose to suspend their gas taxes during the price surge, including Maryland, New York and Georgia. Newsom and his fellow Democrats that control the state Legislature refused to do that, opting instead to send $9.5 billion in rebates to taxpayers — which began showing up in bank accounts this week.
It’s unclear how the tax Newsom is proposing would work. Newsom said he is still working out the details with legislative leaders, but on Friday said he wants the money to be “returned to taxpayers,” possibly by using money from the tax to pay for more rebates.
“We’re going to get the money back that (oil companies) have been gouging and taking back from hard working Californians,” Newsom said. “There are many different ways of doing this.”
The state Legislature briefly considered a proposal earlier this year that would have imposed a “windfall profits tax” on oil companies’ gross receipts when the price of a gallon of gasoline was “abnormally high compared to the price of a barrel of oil.”
That proposal would have required state regulators to determine the tax rate, making sure it recovered any oil companies’ profit margins that exceeded 30 cents per gallon. The money from the tax would then have been returned to taxpayers via rebates.
Newsom did not comment on that proposal when it was introduced in March, and lawmakers quickly shelved it. It could, however, act as a blueprint for the new proposal being negotiated between Newsom and legislative leaders.
The Legislature’s top two leaders — Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon — said in a joint statement that lawmakers “will continue to examine all other options to help consumers.”
“A solution that takes excessive profits out of the hands of oil corporations and puts money back into the hands of consumers deserves strong consideration by the Legislature,” they said. “We look forward to examining the Governor’s detailed proposal when we receive it.”
California Republicans — who do not control enough seats to influence policy decisions in the Legislature — have called the tax “foolhardy.”
“Who here thinks that another tax is going to bring down your gas prices? Is going to bring down any costs in this state? It’s not going to happen,” Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher told reporters on Wednesday.
The California Legislature usually meets between January and August, where they consider bills on a variety of topics. The governor has the power to call a special legislative session at any time by issuing a proclamation. When convened in a special session, lawmakers can only consider the issues mentioned in that proclamation.
The last time a California governor called a special legislative session was in 2015 when then-Gov. Jerry Brown asked lawmakers to pass a bill to pay for repairs to state roads and highways. Lawmakers ultimately took no action.
The California Energy Commission wrote a Sept. 30 letter to five oil refiners demanding an explanation for why gas prices jumped dramatically and why inventory fell during refinery maintenance that was planned in advance.
Gas prices jumped 84 cents over a 10-day period, an unprecedented spike, the commission wrote. It noted the price increase came as oil prices fell.
The oil industry had “not provided an adequate and transparent explanation for this price spike, which is causing real economic hardship to millions of Californians,” the commission wrote.
The companies who received the letter were Chevron, Marathon Petroleum, PBF Energy, Phillips 66 and Valero.
As of Friday, only PBF Energy had responded. Paul Davis, the company’s senior vice president, said antitrust law barred it from responding to the questions in detail. But he broadly said state policies designed to limit oil production in California are squeezing the industry.
“It is important that there be a full understanding of what the implications will be in the short-, medium- and long-term on the availability of gasoline supplies for consumers and businesses,” Davis wrote.
PBF does not operate any gas stations in California.
Associated Press reporter Kathleen Ronayne contributed reporting.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Tiah Tomlin-Harris: For Black Women With Breast Cancer Knowledge Is Power Newswise
Tiah Tomlin-Harris: For Black Women With Breast Cancer, Knowledge Is Power – Newswise https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/tiah-tomlin-harris-for-black-women-with-breast-cancer-knowledge-is-power-newswise/
When she was diagnosed in 2015 with triple-negative breast cancer in her 30s, Tiah Tomlin-Harris of Atlanta discovered there was a lot she didn’t know about the disease. By discovering Living Beyond Breast Cancer’s (LBBC) Young Advocate program and becoming active in the breast cancer community, she learned about her diagnosis and today manages LBBC’s popular Knowledge Is Power: The Black Breast Cancer Experience webinar series.
In a world in which only 3% of oncologists are Black, the free panel series features African American health care providers, advocates, and women affected by breast cancer discussing key issues of concern:
Oct 27: Understanding Your Treatment Path
Nov 3: The Cost of Cancer: Work, Financial and Insurance Matters
Nov 10: We Are Family: Navigating Relationships
There is no cost to attend but Registration is required and now open.
“The panelists will share their stories and empower Black women to get what they need, with the hope of having better outcomes,” says Tomlin-Harris. It’s a chance to hear how other Black women have navigated the diagnosis and dealt with financial and family issues, and to feel a sense of community and connection.”
Tomlin-Harris is co-founder of My Style Matters, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides support, resources, education and healthy-living experiences to those who are disproportionately impacted by breast cancer.
According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Black women are 41% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women; and young Black women, who have a higher incidence of aggressive cancers, have a mortality rate twice that of young white women. Biological, environmental, and social factors all play a role, as Black women are disproportionately affected by more aggressive subtypes such as triple-negative breast cancer and inflammatory breast cancer but are also more likely to have complicating factors such as diabetes and heart disease as well as inadequate health care insurance and limited access to health care.
“We still need awareness — if you’re not aware, you can’t take action,” Tomlin-Harris says. “We want Black women to be aware of this disease, how it affects them, their risk, and if they’re diagnosed, what they can do to help themselves navigate through the journey and advocate for themselves. If or when they face biases, these programs offer strategies to help them get the care they deserve and need.”
Sports Highlights: Atlantis Charter Soccer Comes Alive In Second Half Fall River Herald News
Sports Highlights: Atlantis Charter Soccer Comes Alive In Second Half – Fall River Herald News https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/sports-highlights-atlantis-charter-soccer-comes-alive-in-second-half-fall-river-herald-news/
Herald News Staff | The Herald News
The fall sports season is underway in the Fall River area.
Take a look at the highlights from Friday’s local high school action:
Boys soccer: Atlantis Charter at South Shore Christian
SCORE: Atlantis Charter 2, South Shore Christian Academy 0
LOCATION: South Shore Christian
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 5-3-1
HIGHLIGHTS: Goals were by André Coelho-Filho and assists were by Bradley Flores and Victor Oro. “It was good to get back in the win column. We had a slow start but came to life in the second half. André made the right decisions at the right time and it paid off,” said coach Nathan Mello.
NEXT UP: Tuesday, Oct. 11, at Bishop Connolly at 3:30 p.m.
Boys soccer: Somerset Berkley vs. Durfee
SCORE: Somerset Berkley 4, Durfee 1
LOCATION: Somerset Berkley
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 5-3-2 (4-2-2)
HIGHLIGHTS: Somerset Berkley’s goals were scored by: 3 by Cam Freitas with assists on 2 from Max Jeronimo and 1 from Ben Miller; 1 by Nicolas Scanlon. Durfee’s goal was scored by Lens Bourisquot. Evan Furtado made 2 saves for Somerset Berkley and Durfee’s Xavier Inacio made 4 saves.
NEXT UP: Old Rochester Regional on Wednesday, Oct. 12.
Girls soccer: Atlantis Charter vs. Tri-County
SCORE: Atlantis Charter 0, Tri-County 0
LOCATION: Atlantis Charter School
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 0-1-1
HIGHLIGHTS: “In the first glimpse of next year’s girls soccer team at ACS, the JV team held TriCounty to a 0-0 draw. Many of the girls have had cameo roles during varsity matches, and Eloa DeSouza, Madyson Branco and Sophia Ferreira got an extended run out in a hard fought game against an older, more experienced side. Several of these players have as much as 5 more years at ACS, boding a bright future for this fledgling team,” said coach Vania Mendonca.
NEXT UP: At home against Bishop Connolly on Tuesday, Oct. 11, at 3:30 p.m.
Field hockey: Durfee vs. Brockton
SCORE: Durfee 9, Brockton 0
LOCATION: Durfee
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 9-1-2 (5-0 in conference)
HIGHLIGHTS: Toni Freitas had 4 goals and 1 assist; Shakira Cadet had 3 goals; Josie Caine had 1 goal; and Kacey Curran had 1 goal. Emily Curran added an assist. Kailey Hutchison played the first half in net, and Damani Hall Little ended the game for the second half. “Great ball control and team effort!” said coach Nicole Henrique.
NEXT UP: At Dartmouth on Wednesday, Oct. 12.
Field hockey: Westport vs. Fairhaven
SCORE: Westport 5, Fairhaven 0
LOCATION: Westport
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 4-4-1
HIGHLIGHTS: “Full team effort in today’s win. Defense did a great job keeping the ball out of the circle,” said coach Jacquelyn Legendre. Goals were from Bella Babb, Avery Avila, Molly Bazinet, and two from 7th-grader Madeleine Melnyk. Hannah Abrams had 3 saves in the shutout.
NEXT UP: At home vs. West Bridgewater.
Girls volleyball: Diman vs. Bristol-Plymouth
SCORE: Diman 3, B-P 0 (25-22, 25-7, 27-25)
LOCATION: Diman
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 8-1 (league: 4-0)
HIGHLIGHTS: Lindsey Moniz had 7 aces, 4 kills, and 10 digs; Sarah Moniz had 6 aces, 4 kills, and 4 digs; Hannah Martin had 4 aces, 7 digs, and 12 assists; Avery Rounds had 4 aces and 9 digs; Madison Pereira had 2 kills; Kacie Lynch had 2 kills and 4 digs; and Vitoria DeOliveira had 10 digs.
NEXT UP: At Bridgewater-Raynham on Monday, Oct. 10 at 6 p.m.
Girls volleyball: Westport vs. Avon
SCORE: Westport 3, Avon 0
LOCATION: Westport
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 7-4 (4-1 in conference)
HIGHLIGHTS: Kyleigh Finglas hit the 500 kills mark on Friday. She actually had 18 kills on Friday, which puts her at 506. She also had 9 service points, and 5 aces. Taylor Perry had 26 assists, 7 service points, and 3 aces, and a kill. Zoey Sylvain had 10 service points, 2 aces, and 4 kills.
NEXT UP: At home vs. Wareham on Saturday, Oct. 8.
Herald News and Taunton Daily Gazette sports editor Steven Sanchez can be reached at ssanchez@heraldnews.com. You can follow him on Twitter at @Chezsports. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Herald News today.
Two Weeks Into Its Metaverse Debut Walmart Sets Up Shop In Robloxs Livetopia Adweek
Two Weeks Into Its Metaverse Debut, Walmart Sets Up Shop In Roblox’s Livetopia – Adweek https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/two-weeks-into-its-metaverse-debut-walmart-sets-up-shop-in-robloxs-livetopia-adweek/
Which social media strategies are winning long-term loyalty and how can your brand build memorable and shoppable moments in the space? Find out at Social Media Week Europe, 7–9 Nov. in London. Virtual passes also available. Sign up today.
You’re a brand that has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars and hours of labor building an activation in the metaverse. But how do you make sure people show up in a space that exists outside of the traditional realms of marketing?
Enjoying your content? You Have 1 Free Article Left.
Register to continue reading!
40 Gag Gifts – National Today https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/40-gag-gifts-national-today/
Gag gifts are some of the most fun purchases to make when you’re at a loss as to what would be appropriate for someone on your holiday shopping list. While there are plenty of practical and funny gifts out there (like WineRack), sometimes you just need to go over the top with the best gag gift ideas.
Check out this list of weird and wacky products that are sure to put a smile on your face. From old classic gag gifts to the weirdest things you never knew existed, we’ve got something perfect for anyone in your life, not just your brother.
Our Top 3 Picks
Best
The Banana Bluetooth Phone
Take your banana humor to the next level.
Buy it!
Also Great
Fish-Flops Slippers
These fish flops will have you shouting “REELIT!”
Buy it!
Good on a Budget
Old School But Still Cool Snake in the Can
The classic prank that never gets old.
Buy it!
Gag Gifts for Men
Toilet Motion Sensor Night Light
If your loved one is a frequent bathroom-goer at night, then equip them with this motion-activated light for their trips to the bathroom. This allows them to make their way to the throne without turning on bright overhead lights.
Get it on Amazon
Hilarious “Deez-nuts” LOL candle
Have jokesters in your life? This candle is for them. Light up the room, and a few laughs, with these hilarious candles. They come in 2 different scents with 40 hours burning time. Deez Nutz candle by The Candle Daddy, makes a great gift for anyone who has a sense of humor.
Get it on Amazon
Senior Moment’s Survival Chain
Bring a smile to your face, and start your party with a humorous touch. This old-age survival chain is adorned with plastic beaded chain that’s adorned with funny gadgets, letting them know they’re never too old to be young. Whether it’s a retirement gift or “over the hill” birthday party favor, this item will bring laughs while reminding your guests that life goes on and you don’t become old by age.
Get it on Amazon
Waving Inflatable Wacky Tube (18 inch)
Get a laugh with this tiny Wacky Waving Inflatable Tube Guy. Make your office a little more hilarious with this Wacky Waving Inflatable Tube Guy. A mini version of the classic yellow inflatable guy, it will provide laughs in any home or office. Perfect for your desk, this novelty gift is a humorous way to make people smile.
Get it on Amazon
Affirmators!! 50 Helpy-Ness Affirmation Collection
We all want to do our best and put our best foot forward at work. These cards are a great way to step out of the office, even if they’re only a few steps away. Each card has a positive message that will boost your spirit and encourage you to keep working towards your goals.
Get it on Amazon
For Men Dr. Squatch Bar Soap Collection
With a 5-pack of soaps for men, you’ll be able to take your shower game to a whole new level. The scents are bold and different from anything else out there. Plus, they leave your skin feeling awesome! Also makes a great gift for the manliest man in your life.
Get it on Amazon
‘Forking Good”, The Unofficial Cookbook
Whether you’re a Michael and Janet stan, or still trying to get over the loss of The Good Place, this cookbook will fill that pineapple-sized hole in your heart by presenting recipes for every food item and activity that appeared on the show. This unofficial cookbook salutes both this extraordinary show, and Eleanor’s never-ending hunger for more food.
Get it on Amazon
The Strongest “Death Wish Coffee. Co” Intense Coffee
Be Bold. Be Intense. Be Powerful. We’re not going to sugarcoat it . An amazon Top seller coffee product, Death Wish coffee. All of the beans are freshly roasted with no preservatives or additives. This medium roast is as close as you’ll get to a French roast, with rich and full flavor – perfect for any time of day. If you can’t get enough, we promise that your first bag will be unforgettable
Get it on Amazon
Gag Gifts for Women
Purr-Fect Cat Jogger Pants
PURRFECT – This pair of jogger pants are so soft you’ll never want to take them off. With a comfortable elastic waistband and drawstring, they make the perfect gift for anyone with an affinity for cats of all shapes and sizes.
Get it on Amazon
Le Tiny Violin
The world’s tiniest violin! Playing it won’t make you feel any better, but at least you don’t have to hear their complaints. This tiny violin is perfect for the person in your life who is constantly complaining. It may not lift their spirits, but it’s small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and fun to play with.
Get it on Amazon
Extra Comfy Le Baguette Slippers
Slippers are a very popular home garment, but sometimes we all get bored of them. It is the time when you need to add some humor and funniness in your life. Here comes the Funny Slippers which will not only make you feel good, but also make others around you happy. Now you can show off your fancy baguette loaves everywhere with these funny yet comfy slippers.
Get it on Amazon
Iconic Funny Fox Coffee Mug
Do you love fox? We all love mugs, they’re the perfect thing to have during your daily morning cereals or hot cup of coffee. This Fox Coffee mug is a design that is perfect for any animal lover! It will make you feel happy and inspired every time you pour in a hot drink!!
Get it on Amazon
Relatable Sentiment Taco Dish Towel
A relaxing and enjoyable way to keep your kitchen sink a little less messy, this dish towel is the perfect gift for anyone who loves a good joke. Whether you’re a taco lover, or just appreciate the saying, this dish towel is sure to bring a smile to your face every time you use it.
Get it on Amazon
Kitten Lover Cat Tarot
Cats have seen worlds that are older than our oldest stories, and beyond those wonders they have a sense of humor. Cat Tarot combines the wisdom of these animals with imagery and symbols from their mythology to create a deck that will help you read your own destiny and understand the people around you. Whether you’re just starting out or feel like you’re ready for something special, you’ll want this deck in your collection!
Get it on Amazon
Pink Strawberry Cute Night Light
This is a cute and lovely silicone strawberry! It will brighten up any place, and make your room become more warm and romantic. The soft light of the strawberry night lamp is so sweet, you don’t want to fall asleep. The touch switch design makes it convenient to use. When the light is on it will work 3 hours continuously and then automatically be in sleep mode until next use.
Get it on Amazon
Iconic Schitt’s Creek Cuff Bracelet
Featuring Alexis’ most iconic line, this Schitt’s Creek bangle is for the diehard fans of the show. Fans that can look at this piece and know exactly why it’s so funny will find it to be absolutely hysterical, while people who have never seen the show might just think of it as an optimistic statement . . . but either way, they’ll still know that you’re watching a pretty damn good TV show.
Get it on Amazon
Gag Gifts for Siblings
3D Printed Hot Belly Waist Bag
Have you ever seen a Waist bag like this? Surprise your friends and family why gifting them this 3D Belly waist bag. This super hot waist bag changes the definition of a beer belly because a can of beer can fit inside it. Unlike the classic belt bags, this hot belly waist bag has a high-quality zipper and a compartment that can hold all important gadgets. Plus, this waist bag is super comfy too!
Get it on Amazon
Unisex Rechargeable LED Headlamp Beanie Hat
Gift it to your sibling. Light up a life with this unisex rechargeable LED beanie hat. Adjustable brightness settings let you choose between 3 levels of power to suit your needs. The soft, warm polyester fabric hat is machine washable and warm enough to wear indoors or out. Plus, the lightweight battery pack gives you hours of hands-free light while protecting your eyes from glare.
Get it on Amazon
Microfiber Home-Friendly Mop Slipper by Terry Towel
Microfibre cleaning mop slippers are perfect for cleaning. Even though you might find yourself doing some cleaning dancing around the house, these slippers help pick up dust and leaves on the floor. This will keep your floor clean and won’t cause any damage to it. The slippers are made from high-quality microfiber that is soft and easy to clean with soap, but also has a strong material which makes them durable.
Get it on Amazon
Tote Bag Wine Dispenser
This wine bag is suitable for all age wine lovers. It is an ideal gift for your friends and a perfect companion to your outdoor activities. The canvas surface fabric makes this bag easy to clean and keep colorful; while the sturdy handle helps you carry it around. The internal spacious space and extra pocket facilitate you to store beach towels, purses and so on. The sleek look with a covert pocket will be hand-poured for your favorite wine bottle.
Get it on Amazon
Wearable Soft Sherpa ‘Mermaid Tail’ Blanket by Blankie Tails
Blankie Tails mermaid tail blanket is made with premium quality fabric and will last for years to come. This cute colorful, sparkly Blankie Tail will keep you warm and snuggly while adding a touch of magic to any mermaid or unicorn loving child’s nighttime routine. The Blankie Tails Mermaid Tail Blanket is perfect as a gift, playtime blanket, and snuggle sleep blanket.
Get it on Amazon
F.L. FLower’s ‘50 Shades of Chicken’ Book
Your recipient will be instantly addicted to Fifty Shades of Chicken: A Parody in a Cookbook with these delicious recipes that feature juicy double-fried chicken, baked chicken tenders, or perfectly-roasted chicken breasts.With 50 recipes in this sexy cookbook, you’ll never run out of ideas to keep your friends, family and food wary.
Get it on Amazon
Hilarious Spider Prank Box by FunFamz
Are you looking for a gift for your friends and family? Get revenge on your friends and family, especially on those annoying relatives. Use this box as ...
Crypto Exchange Huobi Global To Be Acquired By About Capital CoinDesk
Crypto Exchange Huobi Global To Be Acquired By About Capital – CoinDesk https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/crypto-exchange-huobi-global-to-be-acquired-by-about-capital-coindesk/
Danny is CoinDesk’s deputy business editor. He owns BTC, ETH and SOL.
Crypto exchange Huobi Global, one of the biggest token trading outposts in the Asia markets, said late Friday that it has agreed to be purchased by Hong Kong-based investment company About Capital Management’s M&A fund.
In a blog post, Huobi Global, a top-10 exchange by trading volume, said About will “control the majority stake” of Huobi once the deal closes; it said the ownership transfer will have no impact on trading operations.
The news comes after months of speculation and reports that founder Leon Li was seeking a buyer for his nearly 60% stake in Huobi, and was asking for at least $1 billion. The terms of the deal with About Capital were not disclosed.
Under new ownership, the exchange is plotting an international expansion and will receive an “injection of sufficient capital in margin and risk provision fund,” the blog post said.
In a statement, Li, who founded Huobi in China in 2013, said the exchange’s late 2021 departure from the Chinese mainland kicked off a globalization push that will now accelerate under About Capital.
Huobi’s native token HT rose sharply on the news.
UPDATE (OCT 8, 23:32 UTC): Adds information and context throughout.
Sign up for Market Wrap, our daily newsletter explaining what happened today in crypto markets – and why.
By signing up, you will receive emails about CoinDesk product updates, events and marketing and you agree to our terms of services and privacy policy.
DISCLOSURE
Please note that our
privacy policy,
terms of use,
cookies,
and
do not sell my personal information
has been updated
.
The leader in news and information on cryptocurrency, digital assets and the future of money, CoinDesk is a media outlet that strives for the highest journalistic standards and abides by a
strict set of editorial policies.
CoinDesk is an independent operating subsidiary of
Digital Currency Group,
which invests in
cryptocurrencies
and blockchain
startups.
As part of their compensation, certain CoinDesk employees, including editorial employees, may receive exposure to DCG equity in the form of
stock appreciation rights,
which vest over a multi-year period. CoinDesk journalists are not allowed to purchase stock outright in DCG
.
Danny is CoinDesk’s deputy business editor. He owns BTC, ETH and SOL.
Danny is CoinDesk’s deputy business editor. He owns BTC, ETH and SOL.
U.S. Job Growth Eases But Is Too Strong To Suit Investors The New York Times
U.S. Job Growth Eases, But Is Too Strong To Suit Investors – The New York Times https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/u-s-job-growth-eases-but-is-too-strong-to-suit-investors-the-new-york-times/
Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker
Argyle Navigating Railroad Crossing Closures The Cross Timbers Gazette
Argyle Navigating Railroad Crossing Closures – The Cross Timbers Gazette https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/argyle-navigating-railroad-crossing-closures-the-cross-timbers-gazette/
Union Pacific is performing routine maintenance on the railroad tracks through Argyle, and that includes closures of three roads at Hwy 377.
The work began Wednesday and will run through the weekend, according to the town of Argyle. Old Justin Road and Harpole Road should be reopened on or before Saturday, and Crawford Road will close after the other roads are reopened. The Crawford work should be done by Monday, if not Sunday. After the work is completed at a crossing, it will remain closed for a brief time as crews smooth the transition with asphalt, according to the town.
Many residents didn’t know about the road closures until after they’d begun.
“The Town recognizes the inconvenience and difficulty in not receiving the closure information in a timely fashion and will work to maintain better communication with Union Pacific moving forward,” the town said in a statement on social media.
Click here for information about the detour routes.
Mark Smith
Mark Smith is the Digital Editor of The Cross Timbers Gazette.
Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Splits Into Adults-Only And Family Sections TravelPulse
Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Splits Into Adults-Only And Family Sections – TravelPulse https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/margaritaville-island-reserve-cap-cana-splits-into-adults-only-and-family-sections-travelpulse/
The Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana today announced that, effective immediately, its existing all-inclusive resort property will be divided into two distinct sections, in order to better enable guests to select their ideal vacation setting.
Aimed at guests who prefer the quiet and sophistication of an adults-only setting, the resort’s ‘Hammock’ section, reserved exclusively for grownups, will offer 13 different luxury accommodations categories to choose from, along with access to adult-exclusive venues.
Trending Now
Meanwhile, the family-friendly “Wave” section will offer a selection of seven different luxury room types that can accommodate up to four guests, complete with family-oriented amenities, all-inclusive access to the Parakeet Kids Club, a dedicated family pool, a splash pad for the little ones and more.
In celebration of this exciting transition, Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana is launching the following special, limited-time offers:
— For Adults: Guests can enjoy 50 percent off their Hammock-section stay when they book between October 7 and October 16, 2022, for travel anytime between November 1, 2022, and January 2, 2024.
— For Families: Guests can enjoy 50 percent off their Wave-section stay, and kids can stay for free when sharing accommodations with two adults. To take advantage of this offer, families will likewise need to book their all-inclusive vacation between October 7 and October 16, 2022, for travel anytime between November 1, 2022, and January 2, 2024.
The property—which is relatively new, having opened only last November—is located in the private community of Cap Cana within the broader destination of Punta Cana, a gorgeous resort town occupying the Dominican Republic’s easternmost tip, which abuts the Caribbean Sea on one side and the tropical Atlantic on the other.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, be sure to subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter here.
Local Business: Delhi Store Features Art Supplies Classes Oneonta Daily Star
Local Business: Delhi Store Features Art Supplies, Classes – Oneonta Daily Star https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/local-business-delhi-store-features-art-supplies-classes-oneonta-daily-star/
Partners Kelli Cain and Brian Crabtree are adding some color to downtown Delhi.
The pair launched Luck Dragon, an art supply store and workshop space at 100 Main St., in late August.
Cain, 43, said Luck Dragon grew from their shared artistic backgrounds.
“We’ve been in Delhi for 14 years; we bought a farm in Delhi and started there, and the business used to be on the farm in a barn,” she said. She said they make electronic music instruments for computer music, but wanted to do more. “We’ve done that for a long time, but Brian and I met in art school, where we studied music and experimental stop-motion animation (at) the California Institute of the Arts.
“Since then, we’ve taken on many different practices and projects … and we both still make music and I do ceramics, so we’ve been in the arts for a while,” Cain continued. “We purchased this building and renovated it for four years. When Delhi Paint & Paper retired in March, we decided … we would move down into the space and move the synthesizer business, (Monome), but we always wanted a teaching, classroom space; just something to offer the community. Since we know about art supplies and art projects, we just picked some of our passions and decided to concentrate on that and have a store. Artware (in Oneonta) closed, and that left a huge gap, and we missed it. The town needs a retail space that people can enter — anyone can enter — and feel good.”
Though specific Cain said, Luck Dragon’s inventory is varied.
“We thought seeing art supplies and craft supplies and paint colors and books about color in person was … meaningful and worthwhile,” she said. “We’re really passionate about color, a great pen, really nice fabric. We carry a lot of really beautiful fabric for making clothes. We wanted to explore more and share with the community in a way that many people could benefit.
“We carry a lot of mending items … and we have classes for that,” Cain continued, speaking of the popularity of Sashiko threads. “Our Mora Knil carving knives for whittling have become quite popular. The whole project is really based on, ‘let’s all have ways to use our hands and explore space and time (without) staring at a screen. We also carry the standards: Holbein oil paints, Holbein acrylics and watercolors and a lot of different kinds of paper. We have a wide selection of our favorite books about color, which is pretty exciting, and people are gravitating toward, and (inventory) will expand as we carry different classes.”
Upcoming workshops include soldering, sewing, natural dying, block-printing, spoon carving, garden design, still life drawing and more.
Cain said locals and visitors are exploring their creative sides.
“Delhi has a little bit of tourism still happening because of the farmers’ market, so I’d say (patronage) is all over the place,” she said. “It’s very much Delhi and people from outside of Delhi. It’s a lot of locals, which is nice, and we’re hoping to draw more artists. The closest places are Arlene’s (Artist Materials) in Albany and Catskill Art Supply in Kingston, so we’d like to get more artists to buy their paint here.
“There’s so many artists (locally),” Cain continued. “I’ve been shocked at how many people were at home working on things — painting or sewing or making clothes. It’s been really inspiring, and Delhi is a very creative community. I continue to be astounded.”
Locals, Cain said, are especially happy to see the space revived.
“I think people are really enthusiastic about the renovation,” she said. “It’s a very special building. The renovation feels really good in the space, and the workshop is really lovely. It’s a good space to teach classes and learn things; it’s very open and very inviting, and people have been very generous and kind with their words, so we’ve been really lucky in that way.”
Cain said she and Crabtree hope to broaden Luck Dragon’s offerings.
“We are slowly but surely increasing our inventory, so that feels really good, and we’re adding new things all the time and considering new classes,” she said. “We’re expanding slowly; we want to be good at it before everyone comes. This is our second month in and now we feel like we’re going to start to spread the word.”
Luck Dragon is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday, with classes happening during and outside of store hours. There are also, Cain said, open “hangout nights.”
For a list of workshops and events, visit luckdragon.space.
Gray Whales Continue To Wash Up Dead And Emaciated But Causes Remain Elusive Los Angeles Times
Gray Whales Continue To Wash Up Dead And Emaciated, But Causes Remain Elusive – Los Angeles Times https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/gray-whales-continue-to-wash-up-dead-and-emaciated-but-causes-remain-elusive-los-angeles-times/
When gray whales began washing up dead in large numbers in 2019, many scientists hoped it was just a short-term phenomenon, and that the leviathans would quickly recover and rebound.
But three years later, the die-off continues for gray whales living and migrating along North America’s Pacific coast.
The population is down almost 40% from its peak in 2016. And in a report released Friday, federal scientists said the number of calves born last year was the lowest they’ve seen since they started observations in 1994.
“Given the continuing decline in numbers since [the peak in] 2016, we need to be closely monitoring the population to help understand what may be driving the trend,” said David Weller, director of the Marine Mammal and Turtle Division at NOAA’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center, in a statement. “We have observed the population changing over time, and we want to stay on top of that.”
In 2019, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration declared an “unusual mortality event” after an alarming number of gray whales began washing up along the shore from Mexico to Alaska. Then and now, the cause of the die-off remains elusive, but it appears that something has drastically altered the food web of these large, bottom-feeding cetaceans.
A gray whale pushes her calf to the surface in Laguna San Ignacio, Baja California.
(Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times)
Every year, gray whales migrate from the warm, protected lagoons of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula to the cold waters of the Arctic and sub-Arctic, where they feed for months on small, shrimp-like creatures that dwell in the mud. Then they return to Mexico, where they mate, give birth and nurse their calves.
It’s a 12,000-mile round trip migration that leads the whales past North America’s busy coast line — through shipping lanes, around fishing vessels, near crowded and intrusive tourist boats and occasionally into the maws of hungry orcas.
Gray whales have had population contractions in the past. Between 1999 and 2000, the population declined by about 25%. However, it quickly rebounded, peaking in 2015-2016.
Researchers pointed to unusually cold temperatures as a likely cause of that contraction. The frigid temperatures during that period expanded the reach of Arctic sea ice making it difficult for the whales to access their traditional prey items of amphipods and other shrimp-like creatures on the ocean floor of the Chukchi, Northern Bering and Beaufort Seas.
Two gray whales feed in the sediment not far from Pasagshak Bay off of Kodiak Island, Kodiak, Alaska.
(GEMM Lab / Oregon State University /NOAA)
This time, scientists say there are likely multiple causes, including a prolonged period of warm temperatures — a consequence of climate change — a loss of sea ice and the subsequent movement and changes in the whales’ prey items.
Many of the whales they encounter and observe appear skinny, while the bulk of whales that have stranded since 2019 — roughly 600 — have been malnourished.
However, that’s not the case for all of the whales. Some were clearly killed by ship strikes, or drowned after being entangled by fishing line and nets, or shredded and eaten killer whales. Others may have died of disease.
“There is no one thing that we can point to that explains all of the strandings,” said Deborah Fauquier, Veterinary Medical Officer in NOAA Fisheries’ Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program. “There appears to be multiple factors that we are still working to understand.”
And the mothers that are having calves seem to be healthy and adequately fed, said Aimee Lang, a fisheries biologist with NOAA’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center who leads the field teams that count the whales as they migrate.
While population counts for gray whales are typically conducted over the course of a two-year period, this year NOAA is adding a third year. Observers will watch from points along California’s central coast — at Granite Point for the southward migration and Piedras Blancas for the northward.
Lang said they work in teams of two and watch for whales as they swim by; they also send drones out to capture data regarding their size and health.
Elsewhere, whale watchers have noticed gray whales exhibiting unusual feeding behaviors, including this past summer in San Francisco Bay where the Marine Mammal Center’s Tim Markowitz and others saw gray whales lunge feeding — a behavior typical for humpbacks, in which they open their jaws wide, and lunge across the water’s surface scooping up fish and krill.
“When I heard they were doing that, I figured the stories were wrong. It must have been humpbacks, ” said Markowitz in a July interview about a bonanza of anchovy in the Bay. “But then I saw it, and I was like ‘whoa!’ Gray whales don’t do that.”
Elsewhere, gray whales have been observed feeding in areas they have historically avoided, including the shallow lagoons of the Baja Peninsula and the muddy, sandy shores of San Francisco Bay and Long Beach Harbor.
A whale-watching group gets a closeup view of a gray whale in Laguna San Ignacio.
(Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times)
Gray whales have been called the “jeeps” of the ocean, because of their opportunistic feeding habits (although they prefer foods that live on the ocean floor, they will eat krill and other critters in the water column and on the surface). They’ve also been called the “sentinels” — because if something starts happening to them, it’s likely you’ll see it elsewhere.
And that’s what has so many worried — if gray whales are having a hard time, a lot of others are, as well.
“What we hope to see in the next few years is that the abundance stabilizes and then starts to show signs of increase,” said Lang. “We will be watching closely.”
In May 2021, three gray whales washed ashore in the San Francisco Bay Area, where visitors to Muir Beach look at a decomposing gray whale.
(Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times)
The Weekend Planner With St. Joe Today | News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM
The Weekend Planner With St. Joe Today | News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM – News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/the-weekend-planner-with-st-joe-today-news-talk-sports-94-9-wsjm-news-talk-sports-94-9-wsjm/
Daniele from St. Joe Today helps us plan our weekend with a full list of great events that include the LAST Farmers Market of the season.
Plus Veronica from LECO joins us in the WOW Factor to talks about the Fit 4 Fall Frightening 5K happening on Saturday!
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 10:29 — 19.2MB) | Embed
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | iHeartRadio | Stitcher | Email | | More
Limoverse Metasportech To Launch Sports Metaverse Khaleej Times
Limoverse, Metasportech To Launch Sports Metaverse – Khaleej Times https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/limoverse-metasportech-to-launch-sports-metaverse-khaleej-times/
In UAE alone, the badminton fanbase is expected to be at 1.2 million.
Published: Sat 8 Oct 2022, 12:30 AM
Metaverse continues to disrupt every consumer-centric sector in the UAE and sports is no exception as two Dubai-based firms Limoverse and Metasportech jointly pledge to boost the sport metaverse in the nation.
Limoverse — the first ever complete health and wellness metaverse — stands with the mission to empower people to take charge of their health and well-being. Founded by Dr Sajeev Nair, serial entrepreneur, peak performance coach, and biohacker, and Adityanarayan, a start up entrepreneur, Limoverse is creating a global wellness and fitness ecosystem on blockchain using Web 3 protocol.
The platform connects health/wellness/fitness practitioners and institutions from around the world with wellness and fitness seekers. Limoverse provides an opportunity for its partner organisations to create B2C and B2B businesses through smart contracts supported by a BEP20 token called LIMO.
Prajeeth, Dr Sajeev Nair, Dr Sathya Menon and George Jayesh.
In addition, Limoverse is rolling out 5 different projects through which users are rewarded for various fitness-related activities. Limoverse app is available on playstore (waiting for approvals in iOS) and already has close to 75,000 downloads. The first project under Limovesre, called HealthFi is currently open to public, where one can earn LIMO tokens by walking, jogging, and running keeping the GPS active in the mobile app. One can enter this programme by purchasing a Sneaker NFT and the first drop of 500 NFTs got sold in 28 minutes.
Limoverse is in the process of integrating more than a hundred wearable brands to measure various health parameters so as to reward people for staying healthy. On its mission to empower people to stay fit, Limoverse identified the potential of sports, which is driven by communities and fans and an ideal domain for the web 3 model, as a community is the fabric of Web 3.0
Nair said: “It’s imperative to understand the GenZ is a tech-savvy community and lifestyle as a segment has to keep up with consumer demand. We found a tremendous potential that can be unlocked through sports which have gained maximum traction post-Covid.”
Limoverse recently joined hands with Metasportech, a DMCC registered metaverse company with having an exclusive interest in building a sports metaverse. The brand headed by CEO Dr Sathya Menon plans to create the world’s first ever exclusive Sports NFT marketplace and also a Sports Metaverse. Other founding partners of Metasportech are George Jayesh who is the CTO and Prajeeth, director of operations.
Metasportech has already started the work of the first ever Badminton Metaverse, which is expected to commission by February 2023. Metasportech has signed an agreement through its group company, Beyond Boundaries LLC, a sports management company based out of Dubai, to create NFTs and also Metaverse for Badminton Asia Championships which is a BWF Super 1000 event. For the first time ever, Badminton Asia Championships will be conducted in Dubai for the next 5 years.
Menon said: “Badminton has more than 900 million followers worldwide, out of which more than 700 million are from Asian countries. In UAE alone, the badminton fanbase is expected to be at 1.2 million.
Metasportech through the Badminton metaverse is targeting this huge follower base for creating a large global badminton community. This community will be able to play badminton with legendary players in the metaverse. They can buy different NFTs and also get trained by world-class players in the badminton metaverse. Moreover, as this becomes a part of Limoverse, they will have access to various health and wellness services and products and also get rewarded by participating in various fitness activities.”
The Badminton metaverse will be launched during the same time as the Badminton Asia Championships in Dubai, which is going to be the richest badminton tournament in the world. Over 900 million people involved in badminton across the world are expected to watch the forthcoming mega championship event in Dubai.
—sandhya@khaleejtimes.com
Best Early Prime Day Wellness Sales SI Showcase Sports Illustrated
Best Early Prime Day Wellness Sales – SI Showcase – Sports Illustrated https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/best-early-prime-day-wellness-sales-si-showcase-sports-illustrated/
The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. The Sports Illustrated editorial team is not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.
Prime Day is on its way back around. Coming later this October, Amazon is back with major savings that you won’t find at your average retailer. So far, we know that Prime Day will take place over the weekend of October 11. You can expect to see plenty of big discounts on everything from laptops to sheets and beyond.
Come dive in with us as we take a look at the best early Prime Day deals, so you can get a head start on all the discounts and sales happening in this Amazon sales event.
Amazon Prime Day Fitness Deals
Best Stair Stepper: Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper Stair Stepper Exercise Equipment with Resistance Bands (9% off)
Sunny Health
This stair stepper from Sunny Health & Fitness is a sturdy and completely adjustable total body fitness device, providing upper-body resistance for your arms, back, shoulders and chest, while simultaneously providing a quick-step mini workout for your legs.
Get 9% off
Best Massage Gun: Bodi-Well Muscle Massage Gun (63% off)
Bodi-Well
For a powerful full-body massage, the Bodi-Well Muscle Massage gun provides a brushless motor performance for effective post-workout relief. At more than 63% off, you can take advantage of this portable and low-noise massage gun.
Get 63% off
Best Portable Gym Set: Gonex Portable Home Gym Workout with14 Accessories (39% off)
Gonex
Score a great deal on this all-in-one home gym equipment system from Gonex. Get everything you need to get a full-body workout at home, including an ab roller, push-up handle bar, post-landmine sleeve, three-section bar plus 30- and 50-pound resistance bands.
Get 39% off
Best Exercise Bike: Sunny Health & Fitness Endurance Indoor Cycling Bike with Magnetic Resistance (38% off)
Sunny Health
Enjoy the freedom and ease of a smooth riding experience with the Sunny Health & Fitness Endurance Indoor Cycling Bike. With magnetic resistance, Smart Bluetooth Connectivity and an optional fitness app, you get everything you need to enjoy a versatile cardio workout from the comfort of your own home.
Get 38% off
Best Resistance Bands: Allvodes Bands Resistance Band Set (27% off)
Allvodes
With Prime membership, you can take advantage of a sale on this high-quality five-piece resistance band set, which has multi-colored bands ranging from 5-50 pounds in resistance. This set also comes with a waterproof carry bag, a single door anchor, two cushion handles, two ankle straps, one figure-eight sport rope and an exercise guide.
Get 27% off
Best Kettlebell: Bowflex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell (25% off)
Bowflex
Prime members can enjoy the versatility and space-saving design of the Bowflex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell, which has enough resistance to replace six kettlebells with a range from 8-40 pounds. The ergonomic handle and weight selection dial make switching between exercises easier than ever and great for getting a flow going through your total-body workout.
Get 25% off
Best Exercise Mat: BEAUTYOVO Puzzle Exercise Mat with 12/24 Interlocking Foam Tiles (25% off)
BEAUTYOVO
No matter where you’re planning on building your home gym, you can use this BEAUTYOVO Puzzle Exercise Mat to protect your flooring and provide thick padding to place all of your workout equipment down. With a seamless look and a simply assembly, it’s easy to move if you ever need to rearrange your space.
Get 25% off
Best Treadmill: Bowflex Treadmill Series (25% off)
Bowflex
With a 22” HD touchscreen console, a motorized incline and decline design, and streaming capabilities (essentially giving you your own smart TV) the Bowflex Treadmill Series is one of the highest-quality treadmills on the market today. With 25% off the regular $3,599 price, you can save BIG on one of our favorite early Prime day deals.
Get 25% off
Best Indoor Cycling Bike: Schwinn Fitness Indoor Cycling Bike (25% off)
Schwinn
The Schwinn Indoor Cycling Bike is one of the best Amazon deals happening during Prime Day. The 40-pound flywheel, dual SPD pedals, fully-adjustable weight seat and standard LCD console found on these Schwinn bikes makes them some of the best exercise bikes on the market right now.
Get 25% off
Best Foldable Fitness Exercise Bike: Davcreator Foldable Fitness Exercise Bike (24% off)
DavCreator
Forget Black Friday and hop on this 2-in-1 exercise bike deal, which provides indoor cycling for a lower-body cardio workout and two-arm toner resistance bands for sculpting your upper muscles. This silent and sturdy bike provides ten levels of magnetic resistance, an LCD monitor and a pulse sensor that measures your heart rate to give you burned calories in real-time.
Get 24% off
Best Dumbbell Set: CAP Barbell 150 LB Dumbbell Set with Rack (23% off)
CAP Barbell
The CAP Barbell 150 LB Dumbbell Set includes six pairs of dumbbells rangng from 5-25 pounds. The compact A-frame design is durable and reliable, while the rubber hex-shaped heads on the dumbbells prevent rolling and protect your floors in case they’re dropped.
Get 23% off
Best Adjustable Dumbbell Set: PowerBlock EXP Adjustable Dumbbells (22% off)
Powerblock
Take your fitness and performance to the next level with 5-50 pounds per hand. These portable and compact adjustable dumbbells are not your everyday fitness gadgets, as they are super innovative strength training tools that provide an easy-to-use fitness solution.
Get 22% off
Best Home Gym: Bowflex Xceed Home Gym (20% off)
Bowflex
This compact home gym is one of the best early Prime Day deals, delivering more than 65 gym-quality exercises. The resistance ranges from 5-210 pounds, helping you hit every muscle on your body, from arms, core to your legs.
Get 20% off
Best Folding Treadmill: RUNOW Folding Treadmill with Incline (17% off)
RUNOW
If you enjoy at-home cardio, but you don’t have the room for large fitness equipment like your standard treadmill, you might consider the RUNOW Folding Treadmill. Even with its budget-friendly price, it comes with an 18” LED Monitor, 40 fitness programs, a shock-absorbing system and a lightweight, portable design.
Get 17% off
Best Recumbent Bike: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike (14% off)
Sunny Health
For a completely adjustable at-home cycling experience, we highly recommend checking out the Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike from Sunny Health & Fitness. The large seat and back cushion provides plenty of comfort, while the adjustable, self-leveling pedals and straps make pedaling easy, no matter your height.
Get 14% off
Best Compact Treadmill: SereneLife Folding Digital Display Electric Treadmill (14% off)
SereneLife
A quality portable treadmill can be difficult to find, though this low-profile folding electric treadmill from SereneLife offers all the perks of a regular treadmill, including digital LCD touchscreen controls and easily adjustable speeds. Plus, with a lightweight design, you can easily dismantle it and place it in your hall closet when you’re done.
Get 14% off
Best Yoga Mat: Manduka PRO Yoga Mat (12% off)
Manduka
Manduka produces some of the highest-quality yoga mats on the market. With an Amazon Prime membership, you can get the best price on this top-of-the-line, eco-friendly mat. At 71 inches long, the Manduka Pro Yoga Mat provides ultra-dense cushioning, stability, support and a chemical-free design.
Get 12% off
Best Powder Coated Kettlebells: Yes4All Powder Coated Kettlebells (11% off)
Yes4All
Made with solid cast iron for durability, a flat base for easy, upright storage and slightly textured handles for excellent grip, the Yes4All Powder-Coated Kettlebells provide all you need for a versatile workout. Get the lowest price on these kettlebells this October on Prime Day!
Get 11% off
Amazon Prime Day Sleep Deals
Best Sheets: Hotel Sheets Direct 100% Bamboo Sheets (57% of select sizes and styles)
Hotel Sheets Direct
Bamboo sheets are great for providing a cooling and relaxing sleep experience. Hotel Sheets Direct has a wide variety of colors to choose from, deep elastic pockets that fit all kinds of mattresses and moisture-wicking materials to keep you from sweating.
Get 57% off
Best Cooling Pillow: Sealy DuoChill Cooling Memory Foam Pillow (54% off select sizes and styles)
Sealy
With Sealy’s patented Perfect Chill Technology, this comfortable memory foam pillow keeps you cool throughout the night. Take advantage of this more than half-off sale and get ahold of this quality and easy-to-care-for pillow, which comes in several sizes for different beds.
Get 54% off
Best Mattress Topper: Mellow 1.5” 5-Zone Memory Foam Mattress Topper (5% off select sizes)
Mellow
Add breathable comfort to the top of your mattress with this aloe vera-infused memory foam mattress topper from Mellow. With multiple points of contact and five body zones, this unique mattress topper promotes sleep by limiting tossing and turning.
Get 5% off
Best Mattress Foundation: ZINUS 5” Metal Smart Box Spring (46% off select sizes)
Zinus
Using a durable, low-profile design that can support up to 700 pounds, the ZINUS 5” Metal Smart Box Spring is one of the highest quality box springs that you can get for an unbeatable price. This Prime Day, enjoy the strong steel interior frame and knitted polyester cover for almost half off regular price.
Get 46% off
Best Luxury Pillow: Tempur-Pedic Symphony Pillow (44% off select sizes)
TEMPUR-Pedic
Enjoy a luxury-style sleep with this 100% polyester, dual-sided memory foam pillow that blends two unique sides: one for side and back sleepers, and the othe...
Lakers News: How Long Will Crypto.com Be Able To Sponsor Crypto.com Arena? Sports Illustrated
Lakers News: How Long Will Crypto.com Be Able To Sponsor Crypto.com Arena? – Sports Illustrated https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/lakers-news-how-long-will-crypto-com-be-able-to-sponsor-crypto-com-arena-sports-illustrated/
Are the Lakers’ new arena sponsors Crypto.com, a cryptocurrency exchange platform, already in trouble?
Less than a year after Crypto.com shelled out an estimated $700 million for the naming rights to the home venue for the Lakers, Clippers, Sparks and Kings in downtown Los Angeles, it appears that the company is facing a tenuous long-term future.
The locale had been named the Staples Center since its debut in 1999. Staples as a brand now is a mere shell of its former self, so a change in sponsorships did feel in retrospect like it was en route. The switch to the glitzy crypto fad felt a bit risky, which has now proved to be an accurate appraisal.
Asa Hiken of Ad Age reports that, thanks in part to some excessive spending to build brand awareness, Crypto.com reached an impressive tally of 50 million users right before the cryptocurrency market crashed and interest fizzled this past spring. Since then, the firm has “quietly downsized” or even tried to cancel several of its partnership deals. It has bailed on its previous arrangements with Angel City F.C., Twitch Rivals, and the UEFA Champions League.
Scroll to Continue
Crypto.com has reportedly lost 30-40% of its pre-crash workforce through layoffs and departures (but mostly layoffs), with sources telling Hiken that sum represents 2,000 employees.
For now, the Venue Formerly Known As Staples Center remains Crypto.com Arena. Just how long that moniker will hold is now anyone’s guess, with what has proven to be a volatile market potentially on the precipice of further collapse.
So how will Crypto.com respond to its cutbacks? Has the bubble fully burst, or is this moment merely a blip? With a lot of layoffs reportedly happening in and around its marketing department, will we be seeing more “We going to the league” ads with Lakers All-Star forward LeBron James talking to a creepy digital interpretation of his younger self?
We can only hope so, dear readers.
U.S. Adds Chinas YMTC And 30 Other Firms To unverified Trade List Reuters
U.S. Adds China’s YMTC And 30 Other Firms To ‘unverified’ Trade List – Reuters https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/u-s-adds-chinas-ymtc-and-30-other-firms-to-unverified-trade-list-reuters/
WASHINGTON, Oct 7 (Reuters) – The United States on Friday added China’s top memory chipmaker YMTC and 30 other Chinese entities to a list of companies that U.S. officials have been unable to inspect, ratcheting up tensions with Beijing and starting a 60 day-clock that could trigger much tougher penalties.
The new listings were the first of a slew of new restrictions announced on Friday on exports of technology to China aimed at blocking military advances. The crackdown included curbs on access to chipmaking tools for Chinese firms including Yantze Memory Technologies Co (YMTC), as reported by Reuters a day earlier. read more
U.S. senators from both parties have been calling for YMTC, China’s fast-growing chip manufacturer, to be placed on a trade blacklist known as the “entity list.” The company, founded in 2016, poses a “direct threat” to U.S. chip companies, according to the Biden administration.
Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com
YMTC and the Chinese embassy in Washington did not respond to requests for comment.
YMTC is under investigation by the Commerce Department over whether it violated U.S. export controls by selling chips to blacklisted Chinese telecommunications company Huawei Technologies Co Ltd. Its chips also are being evaluated by Apple Inc for inclusion in some of its iPhones in China, a major concern for U.S. lawmakers and the Biden administration.
Companies are added to the unverified list because the United States could not complete on-site visits to determine whether they can be trusted to receive sensitive technology exports from the United States. U.S. inspections of Chinese companies require the approval of China’s commerce ministry.
U.S. exporters must conduct additional due diligence before sending goods to entities placed on the “unverified list,” like the 31 added on Friday, and may have to apply for more licenses.
Under the Biden administration’s new policy, if a government prevents U.S. officials from conducting site checks at companies placed the unverified list, Washington will start the process for adding them to the entity list after 60 days.
Entity listing YMTC would further escalate tensions with Beijing and force its U.S. suppliers to seek difficult-to-obtain licenses from the U.S. government before shipping them even the most low-tech items.
Not all the measures announced on Friday were bad news for China. The United States removed a unit of Wuxi Biologics, maker of ingredients for AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, from the unverified list. Reuters reported last summer that U.S. officials had been able to conduct an inspection at the Wuxi city site, a stepping stone to removal from the list.
A Wuxi Biologics spokeswoman said the company was pleased the Wuxi site was removed from the list, given the inspection in June. The company looks forward to scheduling an inspection of its Shanghai subsidiary, which also was placed on the unverified list in February, she added.
Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com
Reporting by Karen Freifeld; Editing by Chris Gallagher, Chris Sanders, Chizu Nomiyama, Mark Porter and Richard Chang
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.
Fairfield Startup Company Works On New Technology That Deactivates Ingested Button Batteries News 12 Bronx
Fairfield Startup Company Works On New Technology That Deactivates Ingested Button Batteries – News 12 Bronx https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/fairfield-startup-company-works-on-new-technology-that-deactivates-ingested-button-batteries-news-12-bronx/
Oct 07, 2022, 9:19pmUpdated 10m ago
By: News 12 Staff
A Fairfield startup company is working on a solution to prevent accidents in which young children swallow button batteries.
The company CEO says at least 3,500 button battery ingestion injuries happen in the U.S. each year.
Trista Hamsmith, whose 18-month-old Reese Hamsmith died after swallowing one, says she supports this new technology.
“What I can tell you as a parent that has lost a child, paying an extra dime for a safer battery is a no-brainer. Reese’s Purpose supports a safer battery and looks forward to seeing it available to consumers as an integral part of the solution,” she says.
Reese’s Law, which is named after Hamsmith’s baby, was signed into law by President Joe Biden in August. It requires safer standards for the packaging of small batteries found in everyday items.
Man In Jail For Allegedly Groping Women Punches Officer Who Entered His Cell Police Say Denton Record Chronicle
Man In Jail For Allegedly Groping Women Punches Officer Who Entered His Cell, Police Say – Denton Record Chronicle https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/man-in-jail-for-allegedly-groping-women-punches-officer-who-entered-his-cell-police-say-denton-record-chronicle/
Best of the Blotter
Every Wednesday morning, get the week’s top crime stories in Denton from the Blotter in your inbox.
Breaking News
Get the latest, most up-to-date news alerts when you sign up to receive our Breaking News newsletter.
e-Edition Notifier
Receive a daily notification that the DR-C e-Edition is available. Sign up now.
High School Season Pass
Stay up to date with all of the sports news coming out of Denton-area high schools.
Mean Green Spotlight
Get exclusive, in-depth coverage of the University of North Texas athletics teams in this weekly newsletter.
Promotions and Offers
Would you like to receive information from our advertisers or DR-C offers? Sign up now.
Wake Up with the DR-C
Every morning, get a link to our newly redesigned e-Edition and the top Denton headlines you need to start your day.
Your Money, Your Home
In the DR-C’s newest newsletter, get exclusive coverage about business in Denton County, with a focus on the housing market.
9 Best Babymoon Destinations For Parents-To-Be Yahoo News
9 Best Babymoon Destinations For Parents-To-Be – Yahoo News https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/9-best-babymoon-destinations-for-parents-to-be-yahoo-news/
Moms and dads who are about to welcome a baby into their lives may be seeking a chance for some quality rest and relaxation before they welcome their newest addition.
“This is an amazing time to have that last hurrah before baby and before life revolves around their new bundle of joy,” Michelle London, founder of Away We Globe, an affiliate of SmartFlyer, told TODAY Parents.
London said that babymoon destinations can be as unique as the couple themselves.
“Whether it’s to a far-flung exotic locale that they are crossing off their bucket list, or a simple staycation to the charming bed and breakfast they’ve been eyeing for years, it’s a fabulous way to take time as a couple, reinforce their bond and indulge in some major self-care,” she said.
What Is A Babymoon?
A babymoon is a vacation that a couple takes before the birth of a child.
“It’s a way for the couple to spend quality time together before their lives look very different,” London told TODAY Parents. “After the baby comes, they will not have as much time alone, and may not feel comfortable leaving the baby for a romantic getaway. It’s the perfect time to reconnect and relax before the overwhelm and fatigue of parenthood sets in.”
9 best babymoon destinations for parents-to-be
London told TODAY that she has planned everything from two-week babymoons through Northern Italy, the Greek Islands and the Maldives, as well as simple long weekends at a drivable special spot — like Big Sur on the west coast, or northern Vermont for east coast couples.
“Couples can be ambitious or conservative, based on their travel preferences, comfort level and budget,” she said.
Top 5 Babymoon Destinations In The U.S.
Hawaii
“Hawaii is one of the best places to feel like you’ve traveled far away, plus you can even island-hop,” London said. “Couples can find beautiful scenery, luxury hotels and a fantastic mix of adventure and relaxation.”
New England
“New England in the spring or fall is magical with the leaves changing,” London said. “Hikes, picnics, mocktails by the fire, stargazing — it’s the perfect romantic getaway destination.”
California
“I love planning road trips along the California coast for a more active babymoon,” London told TODAY. “It’s a really nice way to explore different destinations and landscapes without having to travel too far — the beaches of Malibu, the cute cities of Santa Barbara and Carmel, and the rugged coastline and wilderness of Big Sur. It’s such a fun trip, and doable year-round.”
Spa locations
“Destination spas are an amazing way to ensure you get lots of pampering before baby comes,” London explained.
Florida
“For babymooners who want a warm weather getaway sans passport and a relatively short flight, Florida solidly delivers,” London said. “Little Palm Island in Little Torch Key is an adults-only special celebration spot, and Four Seasons Surfside offers the beauty of Miami’s beaches without the crowds of South Beach.”
Top 4 Babymoon Destinations Outside The U.S.
Los Cabos, Mexico
“Los Cabos is one of my favorite destinations for babymooners, especially for those based on the west coast,” London said. “It’s a short and easy flight, (and) there are many incredible hotels that it’s hard to choose just one.”
Anguilla
“Anguilla has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, and it just became a lot more accessible with the new direct flight from Miami on American Airlines,” London said, adding powdery sand, crystal clear waters, top notch hotels, and excellent dining — make it the perfect place to unwind before the chaos of parenthood begins.
French Polynesia
“French Polynesia is just a few hours farther than Hawaii, but just seems so much more far-flung,” London said. “Staying in an overwater bungalow gives off second honeymoon vibes, and is probably something you won’t do with a family since they aren’t the safest accommodations with young children.”
London said she recommends French Polynesia for babymooners who are open to a bit of a longer flight.
Maldives
“For a real ‘last hurrah’ before baby, the Maldives offer an unparalleled luxury experience,” London told TODAY. “Ultimate privacy, on-call butler service, over-the-top spas offering prenatal massages, yoga and meditation, and tons of activities for those who can’t sit still on a beach vacation — the Maldives offers endless serenity and pampering for expectant parents.
London cautions babymooners to get the official sign off from a doctor before selecting the Maldives, as it is far from the U.S.
4 Tips For Planning A Babymoon
Talk to your doctor.
“I always recommend that my clients speak to their OBGYN before planning a babymoon to obtain sign off to travel, and to also see if they mention any off-limits destinations,” London said. “Also make sure that your health insurance will cover you in your destination.”
Timing is key.
“The second trimester is usually the sweet spot for babymoons — the nausea of the first trimester is likely behind you, and you probably haven’t experienced the discomfort of the third trimester yet,” London said.
Ask yourself what you want.
“While some couples want a last adventure before baby, others understandably want to take things easy,” London said. “This can mean a destination that is a short drive or direct flight.”
Get insurance.
“I always recommend that clients get travel insurance, no matter where or when they are traveling,” London explained. “This is also a great time to get a MedJet membership, which offers evacuation to your home hospital if you are hospitalized while on vacation.”
This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Live Updates: Stocks Sink After Hotter-Than-Expected Jobs Report CNN
Live Updates: Stocks Sink After Hotter-Than-Expected Jobs Report – CNN https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/live-updates-stocks-sink-after-hotter-than-expected-jobs-report-cnn/
‘Strength across the board’: Romans breaks down the September jobs report
01:26
Friday’s jobs report showed the US economy added 263,000 jobs in September – a respectable number, but slower than in past months.
The Federal Reserve is rooting for a slowdown. That will help take some of the air out the the ballooning economy that has, in part, sent inflation surging.
Stocks fell as investors were looking for a weaker-than-expected jobs total. September came in slightly hotter than forecast.
President Biden’s announcement Thursday of a federal pardon for simple marijuana possession lit up (sorry not sorry) shares of several cannabis stocks and ETFs — but the contact high was short-lived.
Canopy Growth (CGC), Cronos (CRON) and the AdvisorShares Pure US Cannabis ETF (MSOS) all enjoyed stock bumps at first.
But reality seemed to set in on Friday, as investors realized that a pardon isn’t the same thing as decriminalization. The major cannabis stocks and ETFs all plunged Friday. While more states have legalized recreational and/or medical marijuana, federal laws still prohibit the use, sale and possession of pot.
Until that changes, cannabis stocks may have limited upside. It didn’t help that one pot stock, Tilray (TLRY), reported a loss Friday and sales that missed forecasts. Tilray plunged 16%, following a 30% Biden-supplied boost Thursday.
TGIF? Not this F. Stocks continued their swoon late Friday afternoon, with the Dow plunging more than 650 points, or 2.2%. All 30 Dow stocks were in the red.
The S&P 500 was down 2.8%. Tech stocks really took it on the chin, with the Nasdaq Composite plunging nearly 4%. The three indexes are all still up about 1% to 2% this week, however, thanks to big rallies Monday and Tuesday.
Remember those ginormous market rallies from Monday and Tuesday? Ancient history.
Stocks are still up about 2% for the week thanks to those big rallies, but the major indexes took a big tumble Friday after the jobs report reignited worries about more big interest rate hikes from the Federal Reserve. The CNN Business Fear & Greed Index is once again showing signs of Extreme Fear as well.
Concerns about Corporate America’s profits didn’t help matters.
Chip giant AMD (AMD) plunged more than 10% after warning that sales would take a hit due to slowing demand for personal computers. And denim wasn’t in fashion on Wall Street Friday. Levi Strauss (LEVI) tumbled 9% after the company said a strong dollar was eating into sales.
The Dow was down nearly 450 points, or 1.5% in midday trading.
The S&P 500 fell 2%.
The Nasdaq Composite dipped nearly 3%.
A woman shops for groceries in Washington, D.C., on August 19.
Sarah Silbiger/Reuters
Americans are still getting a decent sized bump in their weekly paychecks. Wages rose 5% in September over the past year, according to Friday’s jobs report. The problem is that the pace of inflation is still higher than that. In other words, shopping for stuff like groceries and paying monthly rent takes a huge bite out of that higher compensation.
The Federal Reserve wants to see wage growth slow. If that happens, the hope is that companies will be less likely to keep raising consumer prices at a breakneck pace.
For one, these businesses won’t have as much pressure on their bottom line from paying higher salaries. And companies also will have to realize that if their customer has less in their pocket, price increases may backfire and lead to lower demand.
Consumer prices surged 8.3% year-over-year in August. The government will report CPI numbers for September next week. Economists are expecting a slight slowdown, to 8.1%. The Fed (and American shoppers) would love to see that number fall even further. The sooner the better.
US stocks opened lower on Friday as investors digested a September jobs report that came in hotter than expected.
The U.S. economy added 263,000 jobs in September, higher than analyst estimates of 250,000. The unemployment rate came in at 3.5%, down from 3.7% in August.
Strong employment data indicates that the Federal Reserve will continue with its aggressive interest rate hikes to cool the economy and fight persistently high inflation, causing economic pain.
The Dow fell by 320 points, or 1.1%, on Friday morning.
The S&P 500 was down 1.5%.
The Nasdaq Composite was 2% lower.
The Marriner S. Eccles Federal Reserve Board Building is seen on September 19 in Washington, DC.
(Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
The September jobs numbers were probably strong enough to keep the Federal Reserve on track to (chant like a high school cheerleader) be aggressive, be be aggressive with regards to rate hikes.
According to fed funds futures on the CME, investors are now pricing in a more than an 80% chance of a fourth straight three-quarters of a percentage point hike at the Fed’s November 2 meeting. That’s up from about a 57% probability of another 75 basis point hike a week ago and just a little more than 1% chance a month ago.
What’s more, traders are now betting that there’s about a 15% probability of yet another three-quarter point rate increase at the Fed’s December 14 meeting. The market was pricing in zero chance of that happening only a week ago.
It’s no wonder then that stocks are sliding Friday following the jobs report.
(Mary Altaffer/AP)
Investors were less than pleased after September’s job totals came in a bit stronger than expected. With 263,000 jobs added to the US economy last month, the Fed’s rate hikes may not be having the slowdown effect policymakers had hoped for.
The Fed was hoping that a long series of historic rate hikes would slow down the economy and bring inflation lower. But the job market remains stubbornly robust, which means the Fed has more room to keep hiking rates.
Rate hikes eat into corporate profits, which has sent stocks sinking sharply in 2022.
Dow futures fell 140 points or 0.5%.
S&P 500 futures were down 0.8%.
Nasdaq futures were 1.3% lower.
The fever hasn’t broken yet for America’s employment market.
The economy added 263,000 jobs in September, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Friday. That’s slightly higher than economists’ estimates of 250,000, according to Refinitiv.
While still a robust headline number, it is the second consecutive month of falling totals, pointing to a labor market slowdown.
The unemployment rate fell back to 3.5% from 3.7%.
Ahead of another consequential jobs report, stock futures remained relatively unchanged.
Investors are likely hoping for a subdued jobs report. That could mean that the Fed has less room to keep hiking rates by historic levels in its fight against inflation.
Dow futures were up 25 points, or 0.1%.
S&P 500 futures fell 0.1%.
Nasdaq futures fell 0.4%.
US oil rose 0.9% to $89 a barrel. Average US gas prices rose to $3.89 a gallon.
When the Bureau of Labor Statistics releases its latest monthly jobs report at 8:30 am ET, all eyes will be on whether the labor market is showing signs of loosening up – one of many crucial factors that will help the Federal Reserve determine its next steps in its fight against decades-high inflation.
The US economy is forecast to have added 250,000 jobs in September, which would be the lowest monthly jobs gain since December 2020. The unemployment rate is expected to hold steady at 3.7%, according to Refinitiv estimates.
August jobs data already indicated that the historically tight labor market has loosened by a notch. The jobs report for that month found that America added 315,000 positions, a much lower level than the 512,000 average job gains over the past 12 months. The number of open positions also fell, sinking by 1.1 million, the largest monthly decline outside of the pandemic, according to the Jobs Openings and Labor Turnover Survey released on Tuesday.
Read more
If Friday’s headline number comes in above 250K, Wall Street may read that as a sign the Fed is going to have to keep raising interest rates, adding to already-significant strain across financial markets.
If it comes in well below 250K, you might see some renewed optimism that the Fed’s policies are starting to have their intended effect, and it may not need to keep inflicting pain on the economy.
It’s hard to overstate just how delicate the situation is. In fact, just today the IMF’s managing director, Kristalina Georgieva, described the world as being in a period of “historic fragility” after a torrent of economic shocks over the last two-and-a-half years, from the pandemic to the war in Ukraine.
That’s why the Fed’s decisions are being so closely scrutinized. When the Fed raises rates as aggressively as it has in the past several months, it creates painful ripple effects around the globe, pushing the US dollar’s value up and forcing other central banks to raise their own rates as well. All of which could tip the world’s biggest economies into a recession, the UN has warned.
Investors and economists will be hyper-focused on wages in today’s jobs report.
The Fed and others would be happy to see wage growth slow down. Less money in our wallets leaves us with less spending power, and when we stop buying things, prices go down. In theory, anyway. That’s just one part of the large and complicated inflation puzzle.
In the last jobs report, wages were up 5.2% over the last 12 months. That’s historically high (woo!) but it doesn’t keep up with inflation, which is hovering around 8% year over year (boo!).
Wages pose a particular conundrum for the Fed. It wants us to shop just a little less – but not a lot less. Unfortunately, there’s no magic formula for how much wages need to go down to make a dent.
The risk of wages going down too much, too quickly raises the risk of falling into stagflation, which is as unpleasant as it sounds. Stagflation – a portmanteau of ...
