Anna Garraway

Crypto Bank Silvergate To Miss Goal Of Offering Stablecoin This Year – CoinDesk https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/crypto-bank-silvergate-to-miss-goal-of-offering-stablecoin-this-year-coindesk/ Michael Bellusci is CoinDesk’s crypto reporter focused on public companies and digital asset firms. Silvergate Capital (SI) is no longer on track to bring its own Stablecoin to market this year, though CEO Alan Lane said the company continues to work closely with regulators on the matter. “We’re certainly disappointed that it looks like we’re gonna miss our goal of launching it this year,” Lane said on Silvergate’s earnings conference call Tuesday. The company, Lane added, is working diligently to build its operational and regulatory compliance “muscle” to ensure a smooth launch. At the start of this 2022, Silvergate bought the technology and other assets from Diem – the stablecoin project from Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook) that was first announced as Libra back in June 2019. The delay isn’t related to any technology issues for the project, said Lane, who still believes Silvergate is in a strong position versus other banks to bring its own tokenized dollar to the blockchain. Silvergate shares fell over 20% in Tuesday’s trading session after reporting an earnings miss that included a slowdown in USD transfers and digital deposits, along with the stablecoin delay. 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 . Michael Bellusci is CoinDesk’s crypto reporter focused on public companies and digital asset firms. Michael Bellusci is CoinDesk’s crypto reporter focused on public companies and digital asset firms.

Explainer: Why Venezuela’s Refugee Exodus To The U.S. Has Been Accelerating – Reuters Canada https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/explainer-why-venezuelas-refugee-exodus-to-the-u-s-has-been-accelerating-reuters-canada/ Oct 18 (Reuters) – U.S. and Mexican authorities recently announced a new policy that would expel Venezuelans entering the U.S. land border back to Mexico, but allow up to 24,000 people from the country to apply for humanitarian entry into the United States by air. As a result of the new policy, thousands of Venezuelans believed to be en route to the United States are now stranded between the two countries during a year when Venezuelans are arriving at the U.S. border in record numbers. WHY WERE THE NEW MEASURES PUT IN PLACE? The measures respond in part to political pressure on U.S. President Joe Biden to curb record numbers of illegal crossings at the Mexico-U.S. border. Venezuelans have been one of the largest groups of migrants involved in such crossings, in part because Washington granted temporary protection status last year to those who were on U.S. soil. Deporting Venezuelans is also more complicated than with migrants of other nationalities because the two countries broke diplomatic relations in 2019, making it difficult to organize deportation flights. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com More than 150,000 Venezuelans were apprehended at the U.S.-Mexico border between October 2021 and August 2022, compared with nearly 48,000 in fiscal-year 2021, according to U.S. government data. In September, over 33,000 Venezuelan individuals were encountered at the U.S.-Mexico border – more than the number of unique crossers from Mexico and more than immigrants from Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras combined, according to U.S. government data. WHAT HAPPENS NOW TO VENEZUELANS IN TRANSIT TO THE UNITED STATES? Those in transit may attempt to reach the United States despite the near certainty that they will be sent back to Mexico. Mexican authorities so far have given many of these individuals a deadline of no more than two weeks to leave the country. It is unclear where Venezuelans waiting in Mexico will stay, as Mexico’s migrant shelter system is often overwhelmed. Some may return to Venezuela, while others could settle down in different Latin American countries, where Venezuelan migrants have in some cases faced discrimination, limited job opportunities and restrictions on their migratory status. Half of the Venezuelan refugee and migrant population across Latin America and the Caribbean cannot afford three meals a day and lacks access to housing, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), forcing many to resort to sex work or begging. WHO CAN APPLY FOR THE NEW U.S. PROGRAM? Venezuelans who meet the U.S. requirements may apply for the recently announced U.S. program. Among the requirements is having a U.S.-based supporter and holding a valid passport. The cost of a passport in Venezuela is $200, nearly ten times the country’s minimum wage. Only 1% of 1,591 migrants who left Venezuela between June and August held a passport, according to the Observatory of Social Investigations, a rights group. WHAT TRIGGERED THE VENEZUELAN EXODUS? Under late President Hugo Chavez, who died in 2013, the country with the world’s largest oil reserves weathered corruption and inflation. Then in 2014, Venezuela’s economy buckled as global oil prices tumbled, and living conditions further deteriorated as stringent price controls created widespread shortages. Products began to disappear from store shelves while black markets thrived with goods ranging from cooking oil to corn flour. In 2018, inflation in Venezuela exceeded 1 million percent. Medicines for conditions from headaches to cancer were unavailable. WHY ARE VENEZUELANS STILL MIGRATING? Despite some improvements following a 2019 opening of the economy that included an informal dollarization, most Venezuelans still struggle to afford basic goods and services. Efforts by the government of Chavez’s successor, Nicolas Maduro, to ease economic restrictions have alleviated shortages and fueled consumption in high-income brackets, but left the vast majority of the population making wages that fall well short of the cost of living. The monthly minimum wage in the OPEC-member nation is around $15 while the price of a basket of goods covering the monthly needs of a family of five was around $370 at the end of September, according to the nongovernmental Venezuelan Finance Observatory. Even in the commerce and services sector of relatively wealthy Caracas, employees make an average of only around $130 a month. Meanwhile in the public sector, which employs some 2.2 million, the average monthly salary is about $20 to $30. Economists say at least 30% of the population has not benefited from the new economic measures. Remittances to Venezuelans from relatives in the United States or elsewhere help but are insufficient for most. Just one-fourth of Venezuelan families receive remittances, averaging only $70 a month, according to Caracas-based consultancy Anova. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Vivian Sequera in Caracas and Sarah Kinosian in Mexico City Editing by Matthew Lewis Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

CI&T Acquires Financial Services IT Consulting Firm NTERSOL – ChannelE2E https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/cit-acquires-financial-services-it-consulting-firm-ntersol-channele2e/ by Sharon Florentine • Oct 18, 2022 CI&T has acquired digital transformation and financial services consulting firm NTERSOL Consulting LLC. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. This is technology M&A deal number 904 that ChannelE2E has covered so far in 2022. See more than 2,000 technology M&A deals involving MSPs, MSSPs & IT service providers listed here. CI&T Acquires NTERSOL CI&T, founded in 1995, is based in New York, New York. The company has 6,345 employees listed on LinkedIn. CI&T’s areas of expertise include digital transformation, innovation, DevOps, design thinking, systems integration and technology, management consulting, big data, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, application development, smart applications and microservices. NTERSOL, founded in 2018, is based in Irvine, California. The company has 110 employees listed on LinkedIn. NTERSOL’s areas of expertise include custom application development, UX/UI, DevOps, QA, staffing, transitional outsourcing, web/mobile/app, IoT, BI & analytics, security/encryption, blockchain, E-commerce and staffing. NTERSOL’s core industry expertise lies within the banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI) vertical. Earlier this year, NTERSOL acquired CoreIP Solutions Inc. The acquisition will add more than 170 U.S.-based digital specialists the combined organization, including executives, a core team of developers and product and business strategists, the companies said. This deal expands CI&T’s operations in North America and bolsters the company’s expertise and capabilities within the financial services segment. CI&T Acquires NTERSOL: Executive Perspectives Cesar Gon, founder and CEO, CI&T Cesar Gon, founder and CEO of CI&T, commented on the news: “The NTERSOL teams are highly skilled entrepreneurs and talented digital practitioners, making them a great addition to our growing CI&T global family. With the North American side of our business experiencing record growth, this acquisition enhances our ability to rapidly expand our team to meet the growing demands of existing and new clients as we continue to offer world-class digital transformation and digital efficiency capabilities at speed and scale.” Tony Jenkins, CEO & founder of NTERSOL, added: “At a time when digital is moving faster than ever, we look forward to bringing the best of our expertise to CI&T and together drive the strategic digital and business transformation of leading companies in the financial services sector. CI&T and NTERSOL have a shared vision focused on delivering innovation and unlocking growth opportunities for clients, and by joining CI&T, we will be able to scale our offerings and tap into a global workforce to provide a full suite of capabilities and create ongoing value.”

The Quarry Is A Flawed But Fun Option For Your Halloween Gaming – Twin Cities Geek https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/the-quarry-is-a-flawed-but-fun-option-for-your-halloween-gaming-twin-cities-geek/ Posted in Video Games By Ryan VanAlstine On October 18, 2022 The Quarry, released earlier this year, is an interactive drama horror game developed by Supermassive Games and published by 2K. Envisioned as a spiritual successor to Supermassive’s 2015 game Until Dawn, The Quarry maintains the same choose-your-own-adventure gameplay while swapping out the setting for a summer camp after all the campers have gone home for the season. This time around, the cast includes the likes of Brenda Song, Ariel Winter, Justice Smith, David Arquette, and Ted Raimi trying to survive the night from the supernatural creatures hunting them. 2K Let me start by saying that I loved Until Dawn. My wife and I made a tradition of playing it every winter, trying to achieve various endings and different degrees of character survival. We always make sure our first playthrough of games like or even Detroit: Become Human are organic, waiting until subsequent plays to try to manufacture certain scenarios or endings. That being said, although I tried to judge The Quarry on its own merits, the two titles are so close to identical in terms of gameplay and style that it was almost impossible not to compare them. I will detail the most egregious of these differences in the coming paragraphs. The summer-camp setting is perfect for this style of throwback horror adventure, immediately invoking such ’80s horror stalwarts as Friday the 13th and Sleepaway Camp. It also sprinkles in some Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Cabin in the Woods, especially in the later parts of the game. The developers did a great job setting the atmosphere early and often, making sure that even when the characters feel or act safe, you can never really relax because you know exactly what is lurking just off screen, never really sure when it’s time to show itself. At least on your first playthrough, that is. The Quarry cast, including David Arquette, comes to life in uncanny-valley levels of realism. 2K The characters also play these parts as if they were pulled directly from the films that inspired the game. Lovestruck teens unwittingly put themselves and others at risk with dimwitted plans and brain-scratching decisions, and once you set aside your own critical thinking skills, their inability to act rationally really helps with the immersion. I mean, someone has to read from the Necronomicon or complete the Lament Configuration, right? Even with this picture-perfect horror setting in place, though, there are times when The Quarry seems intent on holding your hand or forcing you down linear sections bookended by back-to-back cut scenes. There was more than one instance when a cut scene completed and the game gave control back to the player only long enough to walk down a hall or up a staircase for a new cut scene to start—as if your gameplay section only existed to make the two scenes seem shorter. This seems to be a trend I’m noticing more in modern games. Maybe there’s something behind the scenes being accomplished this way, but it has always been frustrating to me. Especially when I scour this barren hallway for way longer than necessary looking for collectables before proceeding through the doorway at the end that will start the new cut scene. Supermassive seemed like it wanted to mix things up ever so slightly with the quick-time events this time around, but the result felt simultaneously easier and less forgiving. It wasn’t until my fourth or fifth button-prompt QTE that I realized that all the actual prompts had been the same for every QTE, right down to the buttons I needed to press. The Quarry also seems to lean on the trope of needing to fail or not engage in a QTE to get the desired result. There are a few instances of this in Until Dawn and other games—famously in Shenmue II—where you need to “fail” a QTE to succeed, and revealing yourself or attacking will actually lead to a bad outcome for one or more characters. But The Quarry has quite a few, seemingly all of which would have led to a character death. In fact, one in the later part of the game changed the entire ending, leading to many deaths. I wouldn’t say this is 100 percent a bad thing, and it makes the player really think about what action to take, but with how unforgiving the outcomes tend to be, you would hope for more instances of clear-cut decisions. Speaking of unforgiving outcomes, my entire first playthrough ended very anticlimactically. As I said earlier, we play games like this organically our first time through, so part of my disappointment in how our first go ended rests on my shoulders. But when this ending and the series of events that transpired can be traced back to a single, seemingly innocuous decision, it feels like more of a flaw in the way the story is playing out rather than my in-game decision-making—especially when this ending locked us out of an entire subplot and rather abruptly ended the game with several questions left unanswered. This may be an effort to try to manipulate you into multiple replays to try to right what you did wrong, it left such a bitter taste, especially at the end of the game, that it was hard to find the motivation to start over. Atmosphere is one of The Quarry‘s biggest assets, and the game uses it very well. 2K One final gripe I have is that a tonal shift that takes place in the later part of the game with a specific character feels unearned. It feels like the developers wanted to give the game a more definitive protagonist, like a Ripley or a Sarah Connor, and rather than trying to introduce a new character, they simply changed one who was already there—almost giving them entirely new motivations and abilities that felt forced. If this is true and they wanted to give the player a character to latch on to, they could’ve have kept things in the genre and tried to create a more Nancy Thompson–type “final girl.” Ultimately, The Quarry is still an above-average game, even though it falls a little short of the bar set by its predecessor. Until Dawn casts a pretty large shadow, but The Quarry does stand out after a few other Supermassive releases (namely the Dark Pictures Anthology). If you’re looking for a fun, spooky game that won’t require more than a few gaming sessions to complete—possibly as few as one if you have the free time to devote to it—you could do a lot worse than The Quarry. But maybe try to grab it on sale, borrow it from someone who already has it, or rent it (if that even exists anymore), that way you won’t feel cheated if you don’t immediately go back for seconds or thirds after paying full price like some of us. The Quarry is available on Steam, PlayStation 4 and 5, and Microsoft Xbox One and Series S/X, but as of this writing has yet to be Steam Deck verified.

Here’s How Much Rain Fell In San Antonio On Monday – San Antonio Express-News https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/heres-how-much-rain-fell-in-san-antonio-on-monday-san-antonio-express-news/ Timothy Fanning, San Antonio Express-News Oct. 18, 2022 Shameka McCorkle shields herself from the rains as she walks to a bus stop on her way to work on Monday, Oct. 17, 2022.  Jerry Lara/San Antonio Express-News The wet weather that drenched San Antonio for most of Monday only amounted to between a quarter and an inch of rainfall, according to the National Weather Service.  The soggiest part of the region was actually west of San Antonio. Del Rio received between 2 and 3 inches of rain. Hondo saw several inches as well.  “Basically the sloth that is having the worst drought received the least amount of rain,” said Mack Morris, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. “To add insult to injury, the heavier rainfall fell out west.”  On this day Oct., 17, 1998: 24 years ago, flood brought death and devastation to the San Antonio area Bexar County is 10 to 15 inches behind on the amount of rainfall it typically receives by this time of year. Extreme drought conditions gripping the region are expected to continue.  But there is a small possibility that relief could be in sight, Morris said. Fall is typically a secondary wet period for South Texas, with late October seeing the heaviest amount of rain.  However, La Niña conditions, which favor warmer temperatures and drier weather, are forecast to continue through the fall and winter.  “So we’re playing it by ear,” Morris said.  Expect cool temperatures to remain in San Antonio and the Hill Country this week before highs return to the 80s on Friday. Some areas in the Hill Country may reach into the low 30s, but freezes are unlikely.  “It’s our first true taste of fall,” Morris said.  As for rain chances, the National Weather Service is predicting that a storm system in the Pacific Ocean, combined with mid-level moisture, could bring some additional wet weather to the region next week.  timothy.fanning@express-news.net

Travel To Africa: Top 20 Holiday Destinations That Have Eased COVID-19 Curbs – Gulf News https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/travel-to-africa-top-20-holiday-destinations-that-have-eased-covid-19-curbs-gulf-news/ Travel to Africa is easier now since most countries have done away with the RT-PCR tests before arrival. Several countries have removed the COVID-19 restrictions, but many countries insist on COVID-related documents. Not just that. The majority of countries have made it mandatory to wear face masks in indoor arenas and on public transport. Vaccination is not compulsory for passengers, but it helps avoid the COVID test on arrival. These restrictions are necessary since the vaccine coverage of populations is low compared to the rest of the world. Here’s a list of 20 popular tourist destinations and the COVID measures at these places. 1. Algeria ALGERIA: In the southern regions, the land becomes arid and desolate before it transforms into the Sahara, thousands of square kilometres of dunes, mountains and rocks. The region known as the Tassili n’Ajjer has a collection of eroded rock structures in unusual shapes. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Negative PCR test obtained within 72 hours before departure is required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Required in public transport, all public indoor and outdoor areas Health form: Not required 2. Botswana BOTSWANA: With a variety of natural wonders, Botswana is one of the top destinations in Africa. The Okavango Delta, the Chobe National Park, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and the Moremi Wildlife Reserve offer wildlife spotting opportunities. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Not required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Not required Health form: Not required 3. Egypt EGYPT: The land of the magnificent Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx, a trip to Egypt is a journey through history. A cruise down the Nile River and a trip to Alexandria are on most visitors’ lists. That makes it one of the best travel destinations in Africa. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Not required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Not required Health form: Not required 4. Ethiopia ETHIOPIA: One of Africa’s great hidden gems, Ethiopia is an off-the-beaten-track destination with breathtaking landscape, ancient history, unique culture and delicious food. Visitors can hike to the active volcanoes in the Danakil Depression, discover the ancient rock churches of Lalibela, visit the Blue Nile Waterfalls of Bahar Dar and meet the indigenous tribes of the Omo Valley. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Negative PCR test within 72 hours before departure or a negative antigen test within 24 hours before arrival is required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Required in public transport, all public indoor and outdoor areas Health form: Not required 5. Ghana GHANA: The country offers a combination of rainforest, wildlife, bustling African markets, beaches and culture. Highlights include the Mole National Park, which is set on a cliff overlooking a watering hole and is famous for its elephants. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Negative PCR test within 48 hours before departure required Vaccination: Mandatory Masks: Required in public transport, all public indoor and outdoor areas Health form: Passengers must submit a Health Declaration Form at least 3 days before travel and hold proof of payment for a PCR test before arrival 6. Kenya KENYA: Most touristic destinations in Kenya are based in the southern part with Masai Mara & Maasai Mara National Reserve, Diani Beach and Amboseli National Park. Up north, there is the Samburu National Reserve and the Lamu Island. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Not required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Not required Passenger Locator Form: A Travelers Health Surveillance Form is required if showing symptoms Health form: Not required 7. Madagascar MADAGASCAR: A country with nature reserves, the best locations in Madagascar are in the south and west, like Baobab Avenue, Ranomafana and Isalo National Parks and the Tsingy. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Not required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Required in public transport, all public indoor and certain outdoor areas Health form: Not required 8. Malawi MALAWI: A small country in southeastern Africa, Malawi is an off-the-beaten-path travel destination. Wildlife parks Liwonde and Majete are accessible for safaris. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Negative RT-PCR digital test certificate obtained within 72 hours before arrival required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Required in public transport, all public indoor and outdoor areas Health form: Not required 9. Mauritius MAURITIUS: An Indian Ocean island nation, Mauritius is known for its beaches, lagoons and reefs. The mountainous interior includes Black River Gorges National Park, with rainforests, waterfalls, hiking trails and wildlife. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Not required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Required in public transport, all public indoor and some outdoor areas Health form: Passengers are advised to complete the All-In-One Travel Form before arrival 10. Morocco MOROCCO: Each Moroccan city has a character and charm, like the Red City of Marrakesh, the lively medina of Jemaa El Fna and the windy city of Essaouira. The Atlas Mountains include the highest peak in North Africa, Mount Toubkal. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Not required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Required in public transport, all public indoor and outdoor areas Health form: Passengers must present a printed and signed ‘Public Health Passenger Form’ upon arrival 11. Mozambique MOZAMBIQUE: Another off-the-beaten-path tourist destination, Mozambique has a fantastic coastline, friendly people, and good food. Tofo town in the southeast offers surfing, swimming with manta rays and whale sharks, and scuba diving. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Negative PCR test result obtained within 72 hours before departure is required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Required in public transport, all public indoor and outdoor areas Health form: Not required 12. Namibia NAMIBIA: With a great diversity of landscapes and wildlife, Namibia also has red-sand dunes in the Namib desert, Sossusvlei, Fish River Canyon and Etosha National Park. The highlights of Northern Namibia include Epupa Falls, a huge waterfall with impressive baobab trees on the edge; the Okavango River, the fourth longest river in Africa; Mahango Game Reserve on the border with Botswana. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Not required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Not required Health form: Not required 13. Nigeria NIGERIA: A country on the Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria has many natural landmarks, wildlife reserves and protected areas such as Cross River National Park and Yankari National Park. They have waterfalls, dense rainforest, savanna and rare primate habitats. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Negative PCR test result obtained within 48 hours before departure is required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Mask is required on all flights, public indoor areas and public transport. Health form: Passengers must complete the online ‘Health Declaration/Self-Reporting Form’ before arrival Permission: Passengers must hold a ‘Permit to Travel Certificate’/QR Code, generated by the ‘Nigeria International Travel Portal’ 14. Rwanda RWANDA: Called “the land of a thousand hills,” Rwanda is one of the most popular African vacation spots. Most people go to see the critically endangered Mountain Gorillas and endangered Golden Monkeys in the Virungas. The country’s spectacular landscapes stretch from Lake Kivu in the south to Uganda’s Lake Edward in the north. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Not required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Required in public transport, all public indoor and outdoor areas Health form: Not required 15. Seychelles SEYCHELLES: An archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles boasts of numerous beaches, coral reefs and nature reserves, as well as rare animals such as giant Aldabra tortoises. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Negative PCR test tested within 72 hours before departure required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Required in public transport, all public indoor and outdoor areas Health form: Not required Permission: Travel Authorisation is required within 3 to 72 hours before departure 16. South Africa SOUTH AFRICA: A country on the southern tip of the continent, South Africa has several distinct ecosystems. The Kruger National Park is famous for big game. The beaches of Western Cape, cliffs at the Cape of Good Hope, forest and lagoons on the Garden Route, and the city of Cape Town, beneath flat-topped Table Mountain are popular. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Not required Vaccination: Not required Masks: Not required Health form: Not required 17. Tanzania TANZANIA: From climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to the white sand beaches of the Zanzibar archipelago and the plains of the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania is one of the best countries to visit in Africa. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: A negative PCR test obtained within 72 hours before arrival is required. The test is not required for passengers who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Vaccination: Not required Masks: Not required Health form: Not required 18. Uganda UGANDA: An off-the-beaten-path destination for a safari in East Africa, Uganda is known for its unique primates: chimpanzees and mountain gorillas. It’s also home to more than a thousand species of birds. Image Credit: Pixabay COVID-19 test: Negative PCR test result issued within 72 hours before travel required. Not required for fully vaccinated passengers. Vaccination: Required Masks: Required in public transport, all public indoor and outdoor areas Health form: Not required 19. Zambia ZAMBIA: The South Luangwa ...

Semafor News Site Makes Debut, Intent On Reinventing News – 69News WFMZ-TV https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/semafor-news-site-makes-debut-intent-on-reinventing-news-69news-wfmz-tv/ NEW YORK (AP) — The media organization Semafor launched on Tuesday with no less an ambition than reinventing the news story. Semafor is the brainchild of Ben Smith — former media reporter for The New York Times and, before that, former editor-in-chief of BuzzFeed — and Justin Smith, ex-CEO of Bloomberg Media. Since both men — who are not related — quit their previous jobs in January, Semafor has raised $25 million and hired more than 50 staff members. Semafor’s website, with a distinctive yellow-tinged backdrop that looks like a newspaper left out in the sun, went live shortly after 6 a.m. Eastern time on Tuesday, with eight newsletters in place as well as an events business. “We see, and are very excited about, a big opportunity to create a new and high-quality, independent global news brand that is obsessed with solving a number of big consumer frustrations that we see in the news business, primarily polarization,” said Justin Smith, the new company’s CEO. The founders also believe people suffer from information overload. While another media organization may seem an odd way to deal with that issue, they envision Semafor helping consumers make sense of all that’s out there. Stories contain separate sections that present the news, the author’s analysis, a counter to that viewpoint, perspective on how the issue is seen elsewhere in the world and a distillation of other stories on the topic. “Really good reporters do analysis all the time,” said Gina Chua, executive editor, a post she formerly held at Reuters. “That’s great in a story but oftentimes readers don’t know where the facts stop and the analysis begins. What we’re doing is very clearly separating them out.” It’s probably the highest-risk move Semafor is making, said Ben Smith, the organization’s editor-in-chief. Among the stories Semafor offered at launch: a previously unreported accident at SpaceX that injured a rocket technician, by Reed Albergotti, formerly of the Washington Post; and an investor group’s campaign to force Coca-Cola into the garbage business, by Liz Hoffmann, formerly of the Wall Street Journal. Ex-Washington Post writer David Weigel interviewed Pennsylvania Senate candidate John Fetterman and Ben Smith looked at his old shop, with a story about an identity crisis at The New York Times. Ben Smith’s story was Semafor’s centerpiece on Tuesday morning, next to a welcome to readers that he also penned. A series of clocks on top of the site showed the time in various cities, including Washington, Dubai and Beijing. A map of the world sat in the upper right corner. A breaking news column ran down the left side of the site and, on the right, readers were encouraged to sign up for various newsletters. Ben Smith will author a newsletter on the media, and others will center on business, technology and climate. Semafor Flagship, the day’s main newsletter, will be written from London, while Semafor Principals will look at Washington’s power players. The latter is currently considered the turf of Politico — another of Ben Smith’s former homes — and Axios, two of the century’s most successful media startups. Events will also be a big part of Semafor’s business, and 11 have already been held. They include a series on trust in news, sponsored by the Knight Foundation, that featured Ben Smith’s interview with Tucker Carlson. “It’s an extension of our journalism, it’s very very popular with clients and an important way to monetize news,” Justin Smith said. Another event is planned for December, when many African leaders will be in Washington. Semafor is anticipating worldwide expansion, making Africa the first area overseas where it is investing in reporting. At its start, the company is looking to make money through advertising and brand partnerships, said Rachel Oppenheim, chief revenue officer. The news site, www.semafor.com, will be available for free initially. After a year, the company will look for ways to charge for its service, Justin Smith said. “Ultimately, we believe we will have subscriptions over time,” he said. Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Meet The Candidates For Governor In Maine – WGME https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/meet-the-candidates-for-governor-in-maine-wgme/ Meet the candidates for governor in Maine  WGME

Local Calendar | News, Sports, Jobs – Maui News https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/local-calendar-news-sports-jobs-maui-news-2/ Today • MIL girls volleyball 7 p.m.–D-II tournament first round: St. Anthony vs. Haleakala Waldorf at Maui Prep. Wednesday • MIL girls volleyball 5:30 p.m.–D-II tournament quarterfinal: Molokai at Maui Prep. 7 p.m.–D-II tournament quarterfinal: Hana vs. St. Anthony-Haleakala Waldorf winner at Maui Prep. Thursday • MIL girls volleyball 5:30 p.m.–D-II tournament semifinal: Seabury Hall vs. vs. Molokai-Maui Prep winner at Maui Prep. 7 p.m.–D-II tournament semifinal: Lanai vs. Hana/St.Anthony/Haleakala Waldorf winner at Maui Prep. Today’s breaking news and more in your inbox Today • MIL girls volleyball 7 p.m.—D-II tournament first round: St. Anthony vs. Haleakala Waldorf at Maui … Tuesday • MIL girls volleyball 7 p.m.—D-II tournament first round: St. Anthony vs. Haleakala Waldorf at … The Maui News The University of Hawaii women’s volleyball lost its first conference match of the season on … The Maui News The Lanai High School girls volleyball team defeated Hana in four sets Saturday, securing the No. 2 …

Gartner 2023 Top Tech Trends: Sustainability, Metaverse Make The Cut – SDxCentral https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/gartner-2023-top-tech-trends-sustainability-metaverse-make-the-cut-sdxcentral/ Cookie Settings SDxCentral employs cookies to improve your experience on our site, to analyze traffic and performance, and to serve personalized content and advertising relevant to your professional interests. You can manage your preferences at any time. View our Privacy Policy for more information. Toggle Necessary and Functional Cookies Necessary and Functional Cookies – These cookies are necessary for the Site to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. These are used to let you login and to and ensure site security. Without these cookies, our Services won’t work properly or won’t be able to provide many features and functionality. Toggle Performance & Tracking Cookies Performance & Tracking Cookies – We use our own and 3rd party analytics and targeting cookies to collect and process certain analytics data, including to compile statistics and analytics about your use of and interaction with the Site along with other Site traffic, usage, and trend data which is then used to target relevant content and ads on the Site. Opting out of these cookies may impact some minor site functions.

Five Essential Components Of The Best Batman Halloween Costume – Bleeding Cool News https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/five-essential-components-of-the-best-batman-halloween-costume-bleeding-cool-news/ | If you’re like us, you’ve been waiting all year to dress up as your favorite superhero for Halloween. And if you’re like us, you want to do it right. And if you’re like us, you’ve been huffing glue all morning in preparation of writing this article, and your editor has just told you that the clickbait listicle you were supposed to publish today as part of a new editorial mandate here at Bleeding Cool was accidentally published yesterday by mistake and therefore doesn’t count, and so now you have to write a second clickbait listicle! So as you can see, if you’re like us, this isn’t your day… but things are about to get better, because today, we’re going to share with you the five essential parts of the best Batman Halloween costume. Let’s get started! Batman appears in costume on the cover to Batman #118 1. The Most Important Part of a Batman Halloween Costume is The Cowl When it comes to Batman Halloween costumes, the cowl is undoubtedly the most important element. Sure, the cape and the utility belt are important too, but let’s be real – Batman just wouldn’t be Batman without that iconic cowl. It adds an air of mystery and fear as he patrols Gotham City, evoking terror in mentally ill villains like The Riddler (not to mention evoking certain other feelings in Catwoman, who likes to “leave the masks on”). Plus, it helps Batman blend into the shadows and stay hidden from his enemies. So make sure you don’t skimp on this crucial aspect of your Batman costume – after all, Batman is one of the most recognizable superheroes out there, and settling for a cheap plastic mask just won’t cut it. Invest in a high-quality cowl and let your inner Batman shine on Halloween night. 2. A Batman Halloween Costume Needs A Suit With a Bat Logo Halloween just wouldn’t be complete without Batman stalking the streets, ready to protect Gotham from mentally ill villains like Scarecrow by beating the living crap out of them, before returning home to have sex with Catwoman… with the masks on. And what makes a Batman costume truly stand out? A suit with the iconic bat logo, of course! Without it, you might as well go as another superhero. So if you’re planning on being Batman for Halloween, don’t forget the all-important suit with the bat logo. It’s sure to send shivers down the spines of your fellow trick-or-treaters, who are known to be a cowardly and superstitious lot, and in the groin of Catwoman before you have sex with her with the masks on. After all, Batman isn’t Batman without his signature symbol emblazoned on his chest. 3. You’re Going to Need a Butt Plug ‘Nuff said. 4. You Can’t Have a Batman Halloween Costume Without a Great Cape When it comes to Batman costumes, there’s one crucial accessory that can’t be forgotten: the cape. Without it, you might as well just be dressing up as Bruce Wayne in his pajamas. But with a good cape, suddenly you’re Batman, the Dark Knight, protector of Gotham, and enemy of mentally ill villains like The Joker. A cape adds that extra touch of heroism, allowing you to channel your inner superhero on Halloween night.  So when selecting your Batman costume this year, don’t skimp on the cape. Remember, even Batman needs his cape to soar above the criminals terrorizing Gotham City. Plus, let’s be real – it just looks cool. So don your Batman costume and strike a dramatic pose in front of the mirror with your trusty cape billowing behind you – because without it, you’re just a billionaire playboy in black thermal underwear with a girlfriend in a leather cat suit who likes to leave the masks on when you have sex, just like all the rest. 5. Batman Never Goes Anywhere Without His Utility Belt As any Batman fan worth their salt knows, the Dark Knight is never without his utility belt. It’s packed with all the gadgets and gizmos he needs to take down Gotham’s villains, including batarangs, smoke bombs, and of course, his trusty grappling hook. So if you’re planning on being Batman for Halloween, make sure you have a utility belt to match. You never know when you’ll need to use those smoke bombs to make a quick escape or batarangs to take down the Joker and his goons, or the grappling hook to climb up to the rooftop to meet Catwoman and have sex with the masks on. Which reminds us: throw a condom or two in that belt as well. Plus, it’s just not a Batman costume without that signature utility belt. So do yourself a favor and pick one up before Halloween night. The utility belt, we mean. Well, the condom too. If you want to make sure your Batman Halloween costume is the best on the block, don’t forget these five essential elements. Start with a great cowl that will let everyone know who you are. Make sure your suit has a bat logo so there’s no confusion about your identity. Install your butt plug. And, of course, you can’t have a Batman Halloween costume without a cape and utility belt. These accessories will help complete your look and have you looking just like the Dark Knight himself. Are you ready to impress your friends, frighten criminals, and have sex with Catwoman with the masks on this Halloween? After reading this incredible listicle, we can’t imagine how you wouldn’t be! Happy Halloween! Enjoyed this? Please share on social media! About Jude Terror A prophecy claims that in the comic book industry’s darkest days, a hero would come to lead the people through a plague of overpriced floppies, incentive variant covers, #1 issue reboots, and super-mega-crossover events. Unfortunately, nobody can tell when the comics industry has reached its “darkest days” because it somehow keeps finding new lows to sink to. No matter! Jude Terror stands vigilant, bringing the snarkiest of comic book and pro wrestling clickbait to the undeserving readers of Bleeding Cool. Latest by Jude Terror Don’t want to be Superman for Halloween this year? That’s okay. We’ve got a listicle to walk you through the best Batman costume too! Carnage and Hela make a deal in this preview of Carnage #7. But which one is making the deal with the devil? Wanna talk PTSD for Adam Strange? Wait until you see what happens to him in this preview of DCeased: War of the Undead Gods #3. A young Aquaman bonds with his daddy over a scary undersea story in this preview of Aquaman: Andromeda #3. Thor and Venom’s team-up isn’t going so great as Darkoth’s hammer, Hellnir, gives Thor a taste of his own medicine in this preview of Thor #28. What’s happening on WWE Raw tonight? We’ll let you know in the highest possible form of wrestling journalism: the listicle! Brock Lesnar, Elias, and more! Latest in Comics It’s been a big week for Invincible, the popular Image/Skybound series from Robert Kirkman, Cory Walker and Ryan Ottley that just announced some big 20th Renee Montoya, Police Commissioner of Gotham City and vigilante The Question. But how long will that last until the classic holder of that role, Jim Don’t want to be Superman for Halloween this year? That’s okay. We’ve got a listicle to walk you through the best Batman costume too! In previous Dark Crisis gossip, Bleeding Cool suggested that Deathstroke might have an issue with the legacy system at DC Comics, where characters inherit Carnage and Hela make a deal in this preview of Carnage #7. But which one is making the deal with the devil? With suggestions of a possible marriage between Barbara Gordon and Dick Grayson, Batgirl and Nightwing, in January’s Nightwing #100 from DC Comics, the

Crypto News Summary: Nuri Shuts Down, UK’s Pablo Escobar Banned From Crypto, Do Kwon Denies Seeing Arrest Warrant, Interpol’s New Team – Cryptonews https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/crypto-news-summary-nuri-shuts-down-uks-pablo-escobar-banned-from-crypto-do-kwon-denies-seeing-arrest-warrant-interpols-new-team-cryptonews/ Source: AdobeStock / Ralf Get your daily, bite-sized digest of cryptoasset and blockchain-related news – investigating the stories flying under the radar of today’s crypto news. __________ Investment news Nuri, a Germany-based neobank that offers crypto investment tools, has shut down. Per a statement by CEO Kristina Walcker-Mayer, “we have not been able to find investors to continue our mission and have asked our customers to withdraw their funds by 18/12/2022 the latest, so the business can be terminated and liquidated.” Trading will be available until November 11. Blockchain research and development studio ChainSafe has raised $18.8 million in an oversubscribed Series A funding round, led by Round13 with participation from new investors NGC Ventures, HashKey Capital, Sfermion, Jsquare, and returning investors Digital Finance Group and Fenbushi Capital. It will use this investment to enhance its support for the adoption and sustainable growth of the Web3 ecosystem, said the press release. Khaled Verjee, Managing Partner of Round13’s Digital Asset Fund, is joining ChainSafe’s board of directors. Legal news Curtis ‘Cocky’ Warren, known as ‘Britain’s Pablo Escobar’, is due to be released next month, and he will be banned from holding cryptocurrency such as bitcoin, among other restrictions, The Times, reported. He is also banned from possessing more than £1,000 ($1,130) in cash, while his ability to borrow money, make transfers, or hold trusts or shares will also be monitored and restricted. Terra founder Do Kwon claimed on crypto podcast Unchained that he has not seen a copy of the arrest warrant and that all the information about the charges that he is aware of had come from the media. He reiterated that the charges brought against him by South Korean prosecutors are “politically motivated” and that he is not on the run. Regulation news The International Criminal Police Organization, aka Interpol, has set up a special team in Singapore to help governments fight crimes involving virtual assets, Business Standard reported. Interpol Secretary-General Jürgen Stock was cited as saying at a press conference in Delhi on Monday that cryptoassets like bitcoin (BTC) and ethereum (ETH) pose challenges to law enforcement agencies in the absence of a legal framework. Payments news Mastercard introduced its Crypto Source, a new program to enable financial institutions to bring crypto trading capabilities and services to their customers, said the press release. As previously reported, Mastercard is working with the blockchain infrastructure platform Paxos Trust Company. Blockchain news Blockchain development firm Peersyst Technologies announced the launch of a test phase of US fintech firm Ripple’s new XRP Ledger sidechain, which is compatible with Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). They added that they would publish today a user guide for the community to use and test the sidechain and create their XRP accounts on MetaMask. Exchange news Bitfinex announced that it is supporting victims of Hurricane Julia in El Salvador through food distribution and emergency aid. Donations were delivered in person on behalf of Bitfinex to some of the victims’ families by Milena Mayorga, the current Salvadoran ambassador to the US, as well as congressmen William Soriano and Christian Guevara. The majority of the emergency aid has been distributed in La Union, set to become the Bitcoin City. Metaverse news Ethereum-based open-world virtual reality (VR) game Decentraland announced the second annual Metaverse Music Festival (MMF), which will be presented by crypto exchange Kraken and will host 15 stages with more than 100 artists. Decentralized infrastructure for an open, augmented reality (AR)-enabled metaverse OVER is partnering with Decentraland to host this festival taking place November 10th-13th. DeFi news Non-custodial decentralized exchange (DEX) THORChain (RUNE) has logged over 5 million cross-chain transactions since the launch of its mainnet in June, it said in a press release shared with Cryptonews.com. Total value locked (TVL) on the network follows a similar trajectory, with over $100 million locked on the network to date, it added. Career news Mark Steward is stepping down as the UK Financial Conduct Authority‘s executive director of enforcement and market oversight, the regulator announced on Tuesday. The FCA is the supervisory body for anti-money laundering (AML) compliance for crypto firms in the country.

Lafarge Pleads Guilty To Supporting Islamic State, Will Pay U.S. $778 Million – Reuters https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/lafarge-pleads-guilty-to-supporting-islamic-state-will-pay-u-s-778-million-reuters/ NEW YORK, Oct 18 (Reuters) – French cement maker Lafarge pleaded guilty on Tuesday to a U.S. charge that it made payments to groups designated as terrorists by the United States, including Islamic State. The admission in Brooklyn federal court marked the first time a company has pleaded guilty in the United States to charges of providing material support to a terrorist organization. Lafarge, which became part of Swiss-listed Holcim (HOLN.S) in 2015, agreed to pay $778 million in forfeiture and fines as part of the plea agreement. U.S. prosecutors said that Lafarge paid Islamic State and al Nusra Front, through intermediaries, the equivalent of approximately $5.92 million. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Lafarge is also facing charges of complicity in crimes against humanity in Paris for keeping a factory running in Syria after a conflict broke out in 2011. Lafarge eventually evacuated the cement plant in September 2014, U.S. prosecutors said. At that point, Islamic State took possession of the remaining cement and sold it for the equivalent of $3.21 million, prosecutors said. U.S. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco said on Tuesday during a news conference that the company’s actions “reflect corporate crime that has reached a new low and a very dark place.” “Business with terrorists cannot be business as usual,” Monaco added. The cement maker previously admitted after an internal investigation that its Syrian subsidiary paid armed groups to help protect staff at the plant. But it had denied charges that it was complicit in crimes against humanity. Lafarge Chair Magali Anderson said in court on Tuesday that from August 2013 until November 2014 former executives of the company “knowingly and willfully agreed to participate in a conspiracy to make and authorize payments intended for the benefit of various armed groups in Syria.” “The individuals responsible for this conduct have been separated from the company since at least 2017,” she said. Monaco said that French authorities have arrested some of the executives involved but did not provide names. Court records refer to six unnamed Lafarge executives. In a statement, Holcim noted that none of the conduct involved Holcim, “which has never operated in Syria, or any Lafarge operations or employees in the United States, and it is in stark contrast with everything that Holcim stands for.” Holcim said that former Lafarge executives involved in the conduct concealed it from Holcim, as well as from external auditors. The SIX Swiss Exchange suspended trading in Holcim shares before the news. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York and Karen Freifeld; Editing by Noeleen Walder and Lisa Shumaker Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. Luc Cohen Thomson Reuters Reports on the New York federal courts. Previously worked as a correspondent in Venezuela and Argentina.

Carter Jonas Appoints Science And Technology Head – React News https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/carter-jonas-appoints-science-and-technology-head-react-news/ React News Ltd The Monument Building 11 Monument Street London EC3R 8AF React News is a wholly owned subsidiary of Green Street Advisors (UK) Ltd, doing business as Green Street. Green Street Advisors (UK) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conducts Authority (FRN 482269). React News is not part of Green Street’s regulated business in the UK or the US and is not a product of the firm’s research department. React News operates behind robust Chinese Walls to ensure the independence of React News and the research and advisory services provided by Green Street. React News staff does not influence, nor do they play any part in the research process. Any interaction between the news employees and the research staff is monitored by the firm’s Compliance Department. This is not an invitation to engage in investment activity. For US customers: React News abides by the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and does not sell customer information unless you “opt in” to sharing your personal information as part of the registration process for React News webinars; click here for more information.

Windows Gaming PC Load Times Could Become 40% Faster – PCGamesN https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/windows-gaming-pc-load-times-could-become-40-faster-pcgamesn/ Your Windows gaming PC may soon be able to load games up to 40% faster, thanks to Microsoft’s upcoming DirectStorage 1.1 API. Using asset compression, the algorithm benefits modern storage hardware, such as NVMe SSDs, by enabling better performance when loading, with the company claiming the latest version will have better optimisation. A Microsoft developer blog post says 1.1 will offer an “alternative method” to version 1.0, by moving to GPU compression. The post goes on to say that GPUs are more efficient at “performing repeatable tasks,” and DirectStorage can take advantage of that alongside a storage drive’s bandwidth. In short, gaming PC load times should see a significant improvement, even on the latest AAA games. There’s also a side-by-side demonstrating how much faster DirectStorage 1.1 is when compared to the current iteration. An image shows two renderings from the same scene, one loaded through CPU compression, and the other through GPU. The result depicts the former loading in 2.36 seconds, while the latter renders in just 0.80 seconds. This means even the best gaming PC should reap the benefits of 1.1. You may be pleased to know that this version will work on both Windows 10 and 11. In general, it appears to have great potential, as any improvement in loading times is a step in the right direction. Even if you have the best SSD for gaming, you can always stand to shave off a few precious seconds. Do take the information with a pinch of salt, though. These are Microsoft’s own numbers, so we don’t yet know how well it will perform out in the field. The other thing to consider is that developers need to implement DirectStorage into games themselves, and given that no AAA releases utilise 1.0, it could take a while for the new version to see the light of day.

San Antonio Reaches ‘House America’ Goal For Ending Homelessness – Bloomberg https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/san-antonio-reaches-house-america-goal-for-ending-homelessness-bloomberg/ We’ve detected unusual activity from your computer network To continue, please click the box below to let us know you’re not a robot.

Spirit Airlines Lands In Rochester With Nonstop Flights To Top Vacation Destination – PR Newswire https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/spirit-airlines-lands-in-rochester-with-nonstop-flights-to-top-vacation-destination-pr-newswire/ The only daily, nonstop service between Orlando and Rochester begins today Photos and video available HERE , /PRNewswire/ — Spirit Airlines (NYSE: SAVE) is rolling down the runway in Rochester with convenient options to reach Florida’s beaches and attractions just in time for winter. Today, the airline launched the only daily, nonstop flights between Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) and Orlando (MCO). “Convenience is key to a great travel experience, and we’re making it easy for our Rochester Guests to spend more time soaking up the sun at Orlando’s theme parks and nearby attractions,” said John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning at Spirit Airlines. “Our low fares and affordable flights allow our Guests to take a vacation or visit family and friends on their schedule – any day of the week.” Orlando is one of Spirit’s largest airport operations and provides Rochester travelers with numerous, one-stop opportunities to connect to destinations across the United States and Latin America. “The Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport welcomes the arrival of Spirit Airlines’ daily nonstop service to Orlando. These convenient and affordable flights are perfect for families looking to book their vacation to Orlando — the number one destination for Rochester area travelers,” said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. “As the only upstate New York airport currently offering air service with Spirit, we’re grateful for their commitment and investment in our community and the ROC Airport.” The Spirit Charitable Foundation commemorated the new service at ROC with a $20,000 donation to GiGi’s Playhouse, the only network of Down Syndrome Achievement Centers. The nonprofit organization provides free educational, therapeutic-based and career development programs for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community, through a replicable playhouse model. “We are grateful for this generous donation in support of our mission to make the world a more accepting place for individuals with Down syndrome,” said Donna Rush, Executive Director of GiGi’s Playhouse of Rochester. “This gift from the Spirit Charitable Foundation will help us to continue supporting our families from diagnosis through adulthood by providing a safe haven for individuals of all ages to learn and grow.” Soar With Us  There is no limit to how fast and how far you can grow within Spirit. We’re growing and hiring Pilots, Flight Attendants, Aviation Maintenance Technicians and other roles across the company. Visit spirit.com/careers for information.  Spirit’s Elevated Guest Experience Spirit continues its commitment to invest in the Guest, which entails a number of initiatives aimed at delivering the best value in the sky: Spirit’s Fit Fleet® is one of the most fuel-efficient fleets in the industry, with 33 more planes projected for delivery in 2023. The Free Spirit® loyalty program, which is the fastest way to earn rewards and status.* An enhanced cabin interior with ergonomically-designed seats and more usable legroom, featuring the best deal in the sky with our unique Big Front Seat®. Fast onboard Wi-Fi that allows Guests to watch content from streaming services. Recognition Spirit was recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Employers for Diversity 2022 following its active efforts to create and celebrate a diverse workplace environment. The carrier also won “Best Airport Innovation” in the 2021 APEX/IFSA Awards for its groundbreaking self-bag drop system with biometric photo matching, which speeds up the check-in process and reduces face-to-face contact. Spirit also recently received the FAA’s “Aviation Maintenance Technician Diamond Award of Excellence” for the fourth consecutive year. * Based on points earned on published fares (excluding sale fares) and optional services using the Free Spirit Credit Card (the “Card”), and includes status qualifying points earned by spending on Spirit and everyday purchases using the Card. About Spirit Airlines:  Spirit Airlines (NYSE: SAVE) is committed to delivering the best value in the sky. We are the leader in providing customizable travel options starting with an unbundled fare. This allows our Guests to pay only for the options they choose — like bags, seat assignments and refreshments — something we call À La Smarte®. We make it possible for our Guests to venture further and discover more than ever before. Our Fit Fleet® is one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient in the U.S. We serve destinations throughout the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean, and are dedicated to giving back and improving those communities. Come save with us at spirit.com. SOURCE Spirit Airlines, Inc.

How Blockchain Can Be A Creative Disruptor Of Business – Northeastern University https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/how-blockchain-can-be-a-creative-disruptor-of-business-northeastern-university/ Northeastern Professor of International Business and Strategy Ravi Sarathy’s new book, Enterprise Strategy for Blockchain. Photo by Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University News @ Northeastern Homepage Northeastern professor explains how blockchain can be a creative disruptor of business 0% Blockchain—a highly encrypted method of transmitting data across a network—first came to public consciousness with the rise of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, but major businesses have been slow to adopt the technology. Now, a new book by Northeastern professor of international business and strategy Ravi Sarathy, “Enterprise Strategy for Blockchain: Lessons in Disruption from Fintech, Supply Chains, and Consumer Industries,” explores the whys behind this reticence and offers solutions to the problems blockchain still presents. Blockchain relies on a distributed network of computers to provide “a very high standard of encryption,” Sarathy says, in which member computers within the network collectively validate transactions. Northeastern professor of international business and strategy Ravi Sarathy. Photo by Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University. When a transaction is certified, it gets added to a “block,” each of which contains information about transactions in the previous blocks. As these blocks stack up, they form a chain, an “immutable” digital record, or ledger, of every transaction that’s ever occurred along that blockchain, Sarathy says. “You can go all the way back to 2009, when the very first Bitcoin transaction happened, and literally trace… every transaction in every Bitcoin that’s ever been created.” Thanks to these collective validations, he says, blockchains are very secure. “The Bitcoin network itself has never been hacked. Wallets have been hacked, where people store Bitcoin, [and] exchanges have been hacked, which store Bitcoin on behalf of the client,” but the Bitcoin blockchain itself has remained secure. According to Sarathy, these secure, distributed digital records represent the next great disruptor to traditional business. Disruption is important in all kinds of industry, Sarathy says, because it represents a force of “creative destruction.”  Describing what creative destruction looks like, Sarathy cites the rise of digital photography over the past 20 to 30 years. On one hand, digital photography all but exterminated the big business of chemical-film photography; on the other hand, the disruption of that industry allowed for the proliferation of photography into the hands of anyone who owns a smartphone, and a whole new marketplace for both digital photographs and new camera equipment. So how might blockchain unseat heretofore standard ways of doing business? Essentially, Sarathy says, blockchain promises to simplify some of businesses’ most common day-to-day activities, from validating the authenticity of complex exchanges to removing “middlemen” from web-based transactions. Traditionally, intermediaries like banks provide assurance between two parties who exchange one thing for another. After providing a product, a seller might wonder, “How am I going to make sure I get paid? The bank stands for that kind of counterparty trust.” Sarathy says, “but the bank charges a fee.” With a blockchain solution, “a decentralized network, users can directly transact with one another without the need for an intermediary.” Take supply chains, a field thrown into sharp relief by the COVID-19 pandemic. Traditional supply chains relied on “bills of lading,” Sarathy notes, to provide “both proof that the goods were on the ship, but also title to those goods. And you can trade [bills of lading] between parties.” But, Sarathy is quick to note, these are all paper documents, subject to damage, loss, theft, forgery and simple mistakes. Blockchain technology, however, provides a means of instantaneous exchange, not just of data, but of value itself. “Enterprise Strategy for Blockchain” also addresses the factors that have made companies hesitant to adopt the technology. For one, because blockchain relies on a large network of computers, the validation process can take time. Further, because blockchain is so computing intensive, it requires high levels of electrical power, a fact often raised by climate change activists. But Sarathy notes that Ethereum—a cryptocurrency similar to Bitcoin—has recently adopted new protocols that both make the blockchain more energy efficient and faster.  The idea of disruption itself can come across as a negative, and one of the hurdles companies will have to overcome is an organizational reluctance to change, Sarathy says. Large businesses are hierarchical, and incorporating decentralized processes can seem too large an ask. But, Sarathy says, the promises of blockchain technology, like “financial inclusion,” more secure voting technologies and instantaneous transfer of value, outweigh the obstacles to its adoption. Businesses are “part of an ecosystem.” Sarathy says. “Good strategy sometimes requires companies to collaborate across ecosystems.” “Enterprise Strategy for Blockchain” was published by MIT Press on Oct. 11. As part of the book’s launch, Sarathy will hold a free public webinar and Q&A, hosted by MIT Sloan Management Review, on Oct. 19. You can register for the event here, which will provide access to a recording of the webinar. For media inquiries, please contact media@northeastern.edu.

Menopause: Things To Consider If You Are Planning To Get On Medication – NDTV Doctor https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/menopause-things-to-consider-if-you-are-planning-to-get-on-medication-ndtv-doctor/ Home »  Women’s Health »  Menopause: Things To Consider If You Are Planning To Get On Medication Menopause: In this article, we understand how medications play a role in your menopausal journey and things you must understand before starting them.   By: Manya Singh  Updated: Oct 18, 2022 07:16 IST 3-Min Read Menopause may lead to mood disorders that can be treated with medication and healthy lifestyle Most women may typically detect when the menopausal transition has begun by the menopausal signs and symptoms. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about inconsistent periods or hot flashes. In some circumstances, a second opinion could be advised. Tests are often not required to identify menopause. However, in some cases, your doctor might advise getting blood work done to check your levels. These symptoms could potentially affect your physical as well as mental health. In this article, we understand how medications play a role in your menopausal journey and things you must understand before starting them. Medication & Menopause 1. HRT Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which restores low hormone levels, is the primary medical treatment for menopause and perimenopause symptoms. Like most medications, these medications can have side effects. The most successful method of treating menopausal hot flashes is hormone replacement therapy, sometimes known as oestrogen therapy. Your doctor may advise oestrogen in the lowest dose and shortest time period necessary to relieve your symptoms, based on your individual and family medical history. You will require progestin in combination with oestrogen if your uterus is still present. Estrogen also helps stop bone thinning. Initiating hormone treatment around menopause has proven advantages for some women, but long-term usage of hormone therapy may carry some cardiovascular and breast cancer concerns. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of hormone treatment with your doctor to see if it is a safe option for you. 2. Vaginal medication Using a vaginal lotion, pill, or ring, oestrogen can be directly delivered to the vagina to treat vaginal dryness. Just a tiny quantity of oestrogen is released during this procedure, and it is absorbed by the vaginal tissues. Vaginal dryness, pain during sexual activity, and certain urinary symptoms can all be treated by it. 3. Anti-depressants Along with HRT, in some cases, you might be prescribed anti-depressants. As you may know, menopause may result in depression, hot flashes, and anxiety. Mood disorders and hot flashes may be combated by antidepressants. Menopausal hot flashes may be lessened by a subset of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Women who require an antidepressant for a mental condition or who are unable to take oestrogen may find relief from hot flashes with a low-dose antidepressant. 4. Medication for osteoporosis Doctors may provide medicine to prevent or treat osteoporosis depending on a patient’s needs. There are several drugs that can help lower the risk of fractures and bone loss. Vitamin D supplements may be recommended by your doctor to help strengthen your bones. Things to consider before taking medication Consult your doctor about your options and the risks and advantages of each before deciding on a course of therapy. Every year, go through your options since your requirements and available treatments can change. Besides medication, make sure to follow a healthy diet and overall routine. Poor lifestyle choices could worsen certain symptoms. Make sure to also incorporate daily exercise to combat various symptoms of menopause. You must also get enough sleep to maintain healthy physical and mental health. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information. DoctorNDTV is the one stop site for all your health needs providing the most credible health information, health news and tips with expert advice on healthy living, diet plans, informative videos etc. You can get the most relevant and accurate info you need about health problems like diabetes, cancer, pregnancy, HIV and AIDS, weight loss and many other lifestyle diseases. We have a panel of over 350 experts who help us develop content by giving their valuable inputs and bringing to us the latest in the world of healthcare.

SportsGrid Launches Sports Betting Coverage On AP Video Platforms – Investing News Network https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/sportsgrid-launches-sports-betting-coverage-on-ap-video-platforms-investing-news-network/ East Side Games Group (TSX: EAGR) (OTC: EAGRF) (” ESGG ” or the ” Company “), Canada’s leading free-to-play mobile game group, in collaboration with Universal Games and Digital Platforms, announced today the worldwide launch of The Office: Somehow We Manage on iOS and Android. The free-to-play idle game is inspired by NBC’s critically acclaimed, Emmy® Award-winning U.S. version of The Office which is now streaming exclusively on Peacock. Watch the launch trailer here .

The Metaverse Is The Future Of Business. Here’s How To Prepare. – Entrepreneur https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/the-metaverse-is-the-future-of-business-heres-how-to-prepare-entrepreneur/ Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. Twelve years ago, companies didn’t hire social media talent — they didn’t think they needed it. But now? Businesses need social media directors and entire social media teams. The same is true for playing in the metaverse. It is my belief that within the next three to five years, a minimum of 30% of business is going to come from a blend of metaverse experiences and implementations of Web3 technologies (e.g. artificial intelligence, virtual reality and nonfungible tokens, or NFTs). It is essential for creative agencies (e.g. advertising agencies, marketing agencies, etc.) to prepare how they will play a role in the metaverse now so their customers will be able to find them. Related: What You Need To Know About How the Metaverse Will Affect Business The big three The first step in preparing for the metaverse is for creative agencies to decide which of the three roles they will play — either the expert experimenter, the contributor or the activator. Making this decision now will help companies get ready for when their customers arrive in the metaverse, and it’s only a matter of time before they do. Expert experimenters. These are businesses that have an understanding of the metaverse already. To find out whether they are in this group, business leaders can ask themselves if their business strives to be the deep subject matter expert on all things in the digital universe, or whether it’s an early adopter at the vanguard of new technologies. In that case, they need to understand the technologies involved within the metaverse and how Web3 is speeding up evolutions and revolutions. Contributors. These are businesses that are still in their infancy in terms of embracing this new wave of technology and deep subject matter expertise is not required. Creative agencies in this group can introduce their client partner brands to the metaverse and converge their physical and digital presence in a way that is profitable and meets customer needs. Activators. This last group is made of businesses that focus on seeking ways to offer holistic experiences for businesses and audiences to have within the metaverse. Businesses in this group are like a hybrid between the expert experimenters and the contributors. Nevertheless, whether you know a little or a lot about Web3, you can’t afford to be left out completely; defining your role is an essential first step in preparing for the integration of the metaverse. People are investing in the metaverse heavily. It’s expected to reach $5 trillion in value by 2030, and this number is exponentially growing each and every month. Related: Your Brand Can Become Part of the Metaverse. Here’s How. Next steps After leadership at creative agencies decide which role they want to play, they need to develop a strategy and strengthen their online presence. To do this, they will want to hire people whose job it is to prepare the company to implement itself into the metaverse, in whichever role the company has chosen to take. Doing this will help them strengthen their brand identity — and thus, brand loyalty — before the metaverse fully arrives (and it’s coming sooner than we think). Additionally, leaders and creatives should focus on user experience. What kind of experience do they want their customers to have with their business in the metaverse? This is essential for brands getting established in the metaverse because if they can think one or two steps ahead of what their customers will want when they emerge into the metaverse, brands will be there waiting, ready to give customers what they’re looking for. Finally, it’s critical for creative agency leaders to remain adaptable as they learn more about the metaverse while it’s still unfolding. Staying adaptable and remaining at-the-ready for change will help agencies stay ahead and prepared to meet customers when they find them in the metaverse. Related: Your Job as CEO Is to Make Yourself Replaceable. Here’s How to Create a Company That Can Thrive Without You. The importance of Web3 Even if your agency isn’t embracing extended reality and other metaverse projects, experiences and communities quite yet, many of your client partners’ customers are. And arguably, meeting customers where they are is the single most important piece to building brands and businesses that grow and transform. The metaverse isn’t just a probability — it’s inevitable. Throughout the evolution of the internet, waves of advancement emerged because of technological advancement. The internet went from simply being a new technology to sharing the world of information through web browsers to developing social media. Underneath all that were advancements in the programming language, faster internet speeds and, of course, the smartphone. Now, we are in a new wave: the wave of augmented reality (AR), VR and mixed-reality experiences with the technologies to make them work even more soundly and profoundly. If you haven’t begun exploring immersive platforms and how you can approach conversations and tactics related to the metaverse with your client partners, the time has come. Related: The Metaverse Isn’t Dying, the “Experts” Just Keep Getting It Wrong The natural progression If trends in technology really do repeat history, then it won’t be long before hanging out in the metaverse becomes more mainstream. We must watch where people go. An immersive virtual world in which customers socialize, shop, relax, work and play isn’t so far-fetched anymore. Given there was a time when people thought the idea of online dating, smartphones, social media and real human connection online was scary and too futuristic, it makes sense that agencies might be facing those same fears about the metaverse. The popular movie Her may have seemed sad and dystopian, but there were some interesting predictive themes being provoked in that film. Concepts like love, connection, relationships, identity and community will evolve as they always have over time. However, knowing what we know now, we understand that embracing new technologies is far better than avoiding them. And for creative agencies, it’s much more profitable. The metaverse is becoming so much more than a buzzword, and the reality is that advertisers and marketers will be doing business in a virtual world at an exponential rate as seamlessly as they advertise on social media — and very soon. Blending our real and virtual lives has already begun, and the sooner you get on board, develop a point of view and experiment, the better.

Is The Gotham Knights Deluxe Edition Worth It? – Dot Esports https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/is-the-gotham-knights-deluxe-edition-worth-it-dot-esports/ Gotham Knights brings players to a Batman-less Gotham, with those the Caped Crusader trained struggling to defend it. Many players are eager to get their hands on this next title, although they’re unsure which edition of the game they should purchase. As with most game releases in the last decade, there are a few different variations players can buy. The Deluxe Edition promises players all kinds of exciting new gadgets and cosmetics for the game. Here’s all the information you need to know about whether or not the Gotham Knights Deluxe Edition is worth it. Image via Warner Bros. Games Montreal Before you make a purchase, you should know what’s included in the Deluxe Edition of Gotham Knights, which is the Visionary Pack. The Visionary Pack includes: “Knightwatch by Jim Lee” Transmog: Retro outfits for each character Beyond Suits: Futuristic outfits for each hero Salvage that’s used to build gear Boosted gear An exclusive emote Three new colorways to alter suits with As far as whether or not the Deluxe Edition is worth it, it depends on the cost and the value you see yourself getting out of it. There are quite a few cosmetics that come in the Visionary Pack, including a number of retro skins that fans of past comics and TV will appreciate. The futuristic outfits also provide a cool sleek look to each hero. There are also benefits like boosted gear and salvage that you can likely use to craft or improve gear. This provides a boost at the start of the game, but it likely won’t matter as you get further in. You’re not paying for any game-breaking gear or overpowered items. Whether the Deluxe Edition of Gotham Knights is worth it will depend on how you feel about exclusive cosmetics since that’s mostly what you get from this deal for a $20 increase.

Best P2P Crypto Exchanges For 2022 – Cryptonews https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/best-p2p-crypto-exchanges-for-2022-cryptonews/ Disclaimer: The Industry Talk section features insights from crypto industry players and is not a part of the editorial content of Cryptonews.com. Peer-to-peer (P2P) exchanges enable traders to swap cryptocurrencies without needing to go through a third party.  Instead, traders can buy cryptocurrencies directly from the seller using their preferred payment method. The transaction is usually protected by an escrow service, which ensures that neither the buyer nor seller is scammed.  In this comparison guide, we review the best P2P crypto exchange platforms in the market.  The Top 8 P2P Crypto Exchanges Ranked In terms of supported markets, pricing, user-friendliness, and other important metrics – the best P2P crypto exchange platforms can be found on the list below: OKX – Overall Best P2P Crypto Exchange  Binance – Peer-to-Peer Ecosystem With 300+Payment Methods  Uniswap – Leading Decentralized Exchange for Ethereum-Based Tokens  PancakeSwap – Most Popular DEX for Trading BSc Tokens Huobi – Top Peer-to-Peer Exchange to Trade USDT, BTC, and ETH Bybit – Derivatives Exchange Offering P2P Trades via Fiat Money    LocalBitcoins – Enjoy 30 Days of 0% Trading Fees After Registering   DeFi Swap – Up-and-Coming DEX About to Launch Visit OKX Now The Best Peer-to-Peer Bitcoin Exchanges Reviewed Choosing the best P2P crypto exchange will depend on a variety of factors. For instance, while some exchanges in this space specialize in Ethereum-based tokens, others support the BSc standard.  It is also important to assess factors surrounding security, reputation, fees, and mobile friendliness when selecting a provider.  Below, we provide reviews of the eight best P2P crypto exchanges in the market.  1. OKX – Overall Best P2P Crypto Exchange OKX is the overall best P2P crypto exchange to consider today. Although OKX is primarily known for its centralized spot trading exchange – which supports fiat currency deposits, it has since opened its own P2P alternative. This will appeal to traders that wish to swap tokens without going through a centralized order book.  Moreover, and perhaps most importantly, the OKX P2P Bitcoin exchange utilizes an aggregator pricing algorithm. In simple terms, this means that OKX can scour the market across multiple decentralized exchanges to find the best price possible for traders. For instance, let’s suppose that the trader wishes to swap Ethereum for Shiba Inu.  In this scenario, OKX would extract data from the likes of Uniswap, SushiSwap, and ShibaSwap to find the best price possible. OKX also hosts its own DEX, which often offers the best price possible – especially on ERC-20 tokens. We also like that OKX enables traders to set their network fees, from slow, average, and fast.  When swapping tokens, OKX also enables custom slippage rates. As is the case with most of the providers that make our list of the best P2P crypto exchanges, OKX enables clients to trade simply by connecting a wallet. The exchange supports MetaMask, Phantom, and WalletConnect. The latter offers access to the vast majority of leading wallets via a QR code.  OKX is also the best P2P crypto exchange when it comes to supported coins. Not only does it support the best altcoins on the Ethereum blockchain, but other 10 other networks. This includes the likes of BSc, Cronos, Solana, Fantom, Avalanche, and Polygon. This means that OKX traders can execute trades on a cross-chain basis.  For instance, swapping USDT (Ethereum) for BNB (BSc). In addition to its DEX, OKX also offers a more conventional P2P trading platform. This enables traders to select their required tokens, country of residence, and preferred payment type. OKX will then display a range of options that support the trader’s requirements. Results are sorted by the best price on offer. When it comes to fees, In terms of fees, the OKX DEX simply utilizes the network fee and passes this on to the trader. For instance, as of writing, swapping 1 BNB for BUSD would yield a network fee of just $0.37. Trading fees on the OKX P2P exchange, on the other hand, are set by the respective seller. This will be built into the exchange rate provided.  Another popular aspect of OKX is that it is often the go-to- exchange to buy new cryptocurrencies. For instance, OKX was the first exchange to enable investors to buy Tamadoge tokens – which is one of the best future cryptocurrency projects to watch. In fact, Tamadoge – which is building a P2E game and metaverse coin, generated gains of 10x in just 48 hours after listing on OKX.  Supported Coins Trading Fee USDT, USDC, BTC, ETH, TUSD, and DAI on P2P exchange. 1,000+on the OKX DEX Set by P2P sellers and built into the exchange rate.  Visit OKX P2P 2. Binance – Peer-to-Peer Ecosystem With 300+Payment Methods Binance is the largest centralized exchange globally. However, Binance is also a major player in the P2P trading space. Its P2P exchange hosts more than 300 payment methods across 70+fiat currencies. The former includes everything from local bank transfers and SEPA to Paypal and Western Union. As such, buying crypto via the Binance P2P exchange is seamless.  When using Binance for P2P exchanges, seven crypto assets are supported. This includes USDT, BTC, BUSC, BNB, ETH, ADA, and SHIB. The platform itself is very user-friendly and the filter system makes it a breeze to find a suitable seller. For instance, the user can select the coin they want to buy and their preferred payment method in their country of residence.  Binance will then display all suitable P2P sellers – listed from the most competitive price. Buyers accepting a P2P offer will not need to pay any transaction fees to Binance. Market makers, however, will pay between up to 0.35% depending on the trading pair and currency. We like that each trader on the Binance P2P will have their own profile.  This enables buyers to evaluate the legitimacy of the seller in a similar way to eBay. This is because buyers can leave reviews and ratings, which the seller cannot amend.  Supported Coins Trading Fee USDT, BTC, BUSC, BNB, ETH, ADA, and SHIB Set by P2P sellers and built into the exchange rate. Market makers will pay up to 0.35%. Visit Binance Now 3. Uniswap – Leading Decentralized Exchange for Ethereum-Based Tokens  Uniswap takes the P2P trading concept to the very next level. The reason for this is that the entire Uniswap ecosystem is decentralized. This means that no single person or entity has control over the platform and thus – trades are conducted on a truly peer-to-peer basis. In fact, there is no requirement for traders to open an account when using Uniswap.  Instead, it’s just a case of connecting a crypto wallet to the platform and carrying out a token swap. Users can even add their own trading pairs and liquidity pools should they wish. In terms of supported markets, Uniswap is the best P2P crypto exchange for Ethereum-based cryptocurrencies. This means that the platform supports thousands of ERC-20 token pairs.  Uniswap utilizes the automated market maker (AMM) system, which means that token swaps are carried out autonomously via liquidity pools. As such, buyers can swap tokens without needing to have a seller at the other end of the trade. Standard trading fees on the Uniswap DEX amount to 0.35% of the transaction size. A portion of the fees collected are sent to liquidity providers.  This is because Uniswap enables investors to engage with yield farming crypto tools. In simple terms, by adding idle tokens to a Uniswap liquidity pool, investors can earn a share of any trading commissions that are generated. Uniswap is also the go-to place to find the fastest-growing cryptocurrencies, with newly launched ERC-20 tokens preferring the exchange.    Supported Coins Trading Fee Most ERC-20 tokens Exchange rates set by AMM. 0.35% trading fee charged by Uniswap.  Visit Uniswap Now 4. PancakeSwap – Most Popular DEX for Trading BSc Tokens  While Uniswap is the go-to place for Ethereum-based coins, PancakeSwap dominates the BSc token swap scene. As such, PancakeSwap is ideal for finding the next crypto to explode, not least because many new projects now opt for the Binance Smart Chain as per its low fees and fast transaction speeds.  For instance, a recent example of this is the listing of Battle Infinity (IBAT), which is one of the best penny crypto assets of 2022. This P2E metaverse project had a hugely successful presale before generating sizable gains after listing on PancakeSwap. The PancakeSwap P2P platform – just like Uniswap, is actually a decentralized exchange rather than a peer-to-peer provider.  Nonetheless, this means that there is no requirement to open an account with PancakeSwap, nor is there a need to have a seller at the other end of the trade. Instead, PancakeSwap also utilizes the AMM model. PancakeSwap is slightly more cost-effective when compared to Uniswap, with the DEX charging 0.25% per trade.  PancakeSwap is also a good option for those that wish to generate income on their idle crypto tokens. The exchange supports high-yield farming pools across thousands of pairs. PancakeSwap also hosts regular lottery draws, with the top prize of writing at over $110,000. Where PancakeSwap falls short is that it lacks any advanced charting tools or data.  Supported Coins Trading Fee Most BSc tokens Exchange rates set by AMM. 0.25% trading fee charged by PancakeSwap.  Visit PancakeSwap Now 5. Huobi – Top Peer-to-Peer Exchange to Trade USDT, BTC, and ETH  In a similar nature to Binance, Huobi is best known for its low-cost centralized exchange. In fact, Huobi charges spot trading fees of just 0.20% across hundreds of crypto pairs. With that said, Huobi has also launched its very own peer-to-peer trading platform. In addition to its Huobi Token, the platform supports just three coin...

U.S. Treasury Proposes Climate Data Collection Rule For Insurers – Reuters https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/u-s-treasury-proposes-climate-data-collection-rule-for-insurers-reuters/ Destroyed buildings are seen after Hurricane Ian caused widespread destruction, in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, U.S., October 4, 2022. REUTERS/Marco Bello WASHINGTON, Oct 18 (Reuters) – The U.S. Treasury on Tuesday said it was proposing a new rule to collect data on climate-related risks from property and casualty insurers, one of the first concrete actions in a new push to beef up financial regulation to help fight global warming. The Treasury’s Federal Insurance Office said in a Federal Register notice that it was seeking public comment on the proposal, under which it would collect current and historical underwriting data on homeowners’ insurance. The zip-code level data would provide the insurance office with “consistent, granular, and comparable insurance data needed to help assess the potential for major disruptions of private insurance coverage in regions of the country that are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.” Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com The move comes less than three weeks after Hurricane Ian devastated Fort Myers Beach and other parts of Florida’s southwest coast, causing billions of dollars in both uninsured and insured damage and pushing some insurers to forecast financial losses. U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has pressed U.S. financial regulators to make assessment of climate change risks a normal part of their everyday work, including a demand that companies increase disclosures of such risks to investors. Treasury said the proposed data collection rule would help the Federal Insurance Office to assess both the availability of insurance for millions of Americans as well as the affordability of such insurance. “Today’s action by the Federal Insurance Office is an important step in determining how Americans are being affected by the increasing costs of climate change,” Yellen said in a statement. “The recent impacts in Florida from Hurricane Ian demonstrate the critical nature of this work and the need for an increased understanding of insurance market vulnerabilities in the United States.” Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by David Lawder; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

EXPO NEWS: Scape Technology Displays Its High-Speed Robotic System – Parcel And Postal Technology International https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/expo-news-scape-technology-displays-its-high-speed-robotic-system-parcel-and-postal-technology-international/ Scape Technologies is displaying the high-speed robotic Scape Package Picker Solution at Parcel+Post Expo 2022 at Messe Frankfurt, Germany (October 18, 19 and 20). ‘) } // – The automated package handling solution has been designed to automate harmful repetitive movements and reduce the element of human error and consequential bottlenecks. It has a flexible gripper that handles parcels, polybags and envelopes from bulk delivery and feeds items directly into a sorter or infeed belt. The robot picks disparate parcels, polybags or envelopes with the gripper, one at a time, and delivers the items to their final destination (e.g. a conveyor belt), after which it moves back to the bulk delivery station and starts a new cycle. On average, a cycle is completed in two-and-a-half seconds, meaning the solution can handle approximately 1,440 packages per hour. ‘) } // – The scanner, located above the bulk delivery station, detects and defines the shape of the item and sends data to the recognition algorithm and the ‘gripper’ algorithm. The gripping algorithm optimizes the grip based on recognition data and makes sure to correctly pick and deliver the item. Essentially, the robot does not pause because the recognition algorithm processes a whole data cycle before the working robot arm and gripper complete their actions – speeding up cycle times. “We are looking forward to meeting potential partners at Parcel+Post Expo,” said John Espensen, small and medium-sized enterprises channel manager. “We believe that the Scape Package Picker Solution fits to several exhibitors’ offerings and portfolios and could potentially lead to a mutually beneficial and profitable partnership.” About Author Elizabeth Baker, web editor As the latest addition to the UKi Media & Events team, Elizabeth brings research skills from her English degree to her keen interest in the meteorological and transportation industries. Having taken the lead in student and startup publications, she has gained experience in editing online and print titles on a wide variety of topics. In her current role as Editorial Assistant, Elizabeth will create new and topical content on the pioneering technologies in transportation, logistics and meteorology.

Challenger Adds Call Of Duty: Warzone To Its Lineup, Becoming The First Platform To Offer Peer-To-Peer, Cash-Based Competition In Battle Royale Gaming – Business Wire https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/challenger-adds-call-of-duty-warzone-to-its-lineup-becoming-the-first-platform-to-offer-peer-to-peer-cash-based-competition-in-battle-royale-gaming-business-wire/ October 18, 2022 09:05 AM Eastern Daylight Time SAN DIEGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Challenger, a platform providing a new entertaining way for online gamers of all skill levels to compete with real money against other players on their favorite video games, is pleased to announce the launch of its Call of Duty: Warzone offering, making the company the first esports solution to enable gamers to compete in peer-to-peer cash contests in battle royale gaming. With the addition of Call of Duty: Warzone to Challenger’s lineup, the company amplifies and accelerates its mission to provide an accessible solution for casual gamers (18+ or 21+ where applicable) of all skill sets and experience levels to add cash-based incentives to their favorite online games and enhance friendly competition amongst the gaming community. “Battle royale competition is the most popular game mode of the moment,” said Chris Slovak, CEO of Challenger. “Before today, there wasn’t a simple, on-demand option for everyday gamers to participate in peer-to-peer cash contests for battle royale matches outside of big, scheduled tournaments — most of which are still invite-only. Now, with our addition of Call of Duty: Warzone to Challenger’s offering, this elevated experience is no longer only accessible to elite gamers. Starting today, any gamer who wants to put their money on the line in a competitive kill race can do so easily.” With this release, Challenger is also introducing the first-ever cross-lobby gameplay option, which allows gamers to compete for cash against each other and compete in the same game mode and settings but with different start times. Currently, cross-lobby play will be the only option for Call of Duty: Warzone. “We’re very excited about introducing cross-lobby options to the industry,” said Chris Andres, COO of Challenger. “Asynchronous gameplay creates a more fair opportunity for each player to win, while empowering them with much more control over the ‘when’ and ‘how’ of their gaming experience. We feel that the combination of cross-lobby gameplay in battle royale cash contests can offer a huge boost for any/all gamers to compete with higher stakes and elevated energy. Many of these gamers, collectively, have already logged hundreds of thousands of hours within their favorite games, and we are excited to give them the option to level up the excitement, competition, and outcomes for them and their audiences.” Users with Call of Duty: Warzone already installed on their PC (free to download at www.callofduty.com/warzone/download) can participate in Challenger’s battle royale cash competitions by downloading the Challenger app and creating a free account. Users would then select Call of Duty: Warzone, pick their gameplay format, choose kill race, set the kill limit and the dollar amount they want to place before letting the battle begin! Initial registration will be limited to the first 500 Call of Duty: Warzone Challengers until Warzone 2 is released on the platform mid-Q4 of this year, and all initial registrants will be awarded bonus Challenger points just for participating in this rollout. To date, Challenger supports Counterstrike: Global Offensive and Call of Duty: Warzone games. ABOUT CHALLENGER Challenger is an entertaining online platform that provides a new way for casual gamers to put their money on the line against others when playing their favorite video games. The company has created a frictionless, peer-to-peer system that allows all players to infuse a new competitive edge into their gaming experience by adding cash incentives to their existing gameplay patterns — without radically changing how/when they play or compete. Challenger is the first platform to make esports accessible for the average gamer while establishing a secure, trusted environment for any/all players to compete for real money. Unlike other tournament platforms, Challenger doesn’t require 1v1 or scheduled play. Once users join the platform, they set all of the terms: they choose the game, the gameplay format, and the dollar amount they want to place on the line as the Challenger system finds them a suitable opponent. Once the cash-backed matchup begins, Challenger’s patented AI technology tracks scores and distributes money (in the form of credits) between players in real-time based on the agreed upon bet. Users then decide whether to play them, store them, or withdraw them as cash. To learn more visit: https://www.playchallenger.com/

Medina County Couple Find An Underground Cavern On Property – MySA https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/medina-county-couple-find-an-underground-cavern-on-property-mysa/ Don and Debbie Davis, who own a ranch in northwestern Medina County, discovered an “enormous cavern” on their property, according to a Texas Public Radio report. The couple was working on placing the ranch in a conservation easement for the preservation of the water supply for Bexar County. That’s when the Edwards Aquifer Authority found the cavern.  “In their mapping process, they found this little depression that no one had ever seen before,” Debbie Davis said in the report. “It was back in a thick clump of brush and we’d never gone there. And sure enough, when we went to check it out, there was a sinkhole with a tiny opening that we had no idea it opened up to this enormous cavern.” Bexar Grotto, a group of cavers that have been exploring, educating, and conserving caves since 1983, have been to the property before, but the sinkhole didn’t show any sign of being anything major. The group is a local chapter of the National Speleological Society. The group widened the hole with the help of Don Davis, who said it took some effort to get the team into the cavern. Bennett Lee, who was the first person to see the cavern, said that when the team used a flashlight to see in the sinkhole it was just a “black void.” The team knew they were onto something. “Rare that you open up into a huge room, that’s a 70 foot drop,” Lee said in the report. “So, yeah, it was really amazing to be the first one in there and just see this huge room.” The large rooms ceiling was about 120 feet high and almost 60 feet wide. It’s not a rare as you think to find a large cave in this area. Dr. George Veni, Executive Director of National Cave and Karst Institute told Texas Public Radio that there could be more discoveries and this cave on the Davis’ ranch could be bigger than what Bexar Grotto saw. The family said in the report that they don’t plan to open the cavern to the public, but will make sure it is preserved.

Why You Should Book Your Trip Now For This Caribbean Island – TravelAwaits https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/why-you-should-book-your-trip-now-for-this-caribbean-island-travelawaits/ Connect With Fellow Travelers! Join Here Thinking about a winter trip to the Bahamas? Now would be a good time to plan — and book — that vacation. Tourism in the Bahamas is currently booming, and further growth is predicted for 2023. According to the country’s Ministry of Tourism, air and sea arrivals to the Bahamas are up 515.6 percent this year compared to the same period in 2021. This boom comes as the country works hard to return to pre-pandemic levels. 2023 Tourism Is Expected To Top 2019’s Record-Setting Levels Overall, the country is seeing a tourism boom two years after the pandemic began. Indeed, 2019 was a banner year for the Bahamas tourism industry, with the country attracting 7.2 million visitors, including nearly five million cruise passengers and two million stopover visitors.  Bahama tourism officials expect 2023 tourism will exceed 2019 levels. They plan to increase the number of stopover visitors who are drawn by new and renovated hotels, i.e., the expansion and relaunch at Sandals Royal Bahamian, the relaunch of Club Med in San Salvador, the new Ritz-Carlton Reserve in South Eleuthera, and the return of Grand Bahama Grand Lucayan. The Biggest Growth May Come From Florida The biggest growth area may come from Florida, the Bahamas’ largest — and closest — source market. Each year, the Bahamas welcomes approximately 500,000 stopover visitors from Florida. The goal is to double that number. Why target Florida? There are 22 million Floridians, and It’s a 30-minute flight to the Bahamas. The Bahamas is an easy destination, and the new and renovated hotels will make the trip even more attractive. All Bahama Island Destinations To Benefit From Increased Tourism Who knew that the Bahamas has 16 full-fledged island destinations? The plan is to spread the growth of tourism across the archipelago. To accommodate the expected boom in tourism, the country is making big investments in infrastructure, including destinations like Exuma, which is seeing a new wave of development. The Bahamian people are expected to be the stars of this burgeoning tourism. Officials will promote a vibrant future focused on the Bahamian people, culture, and heritage. The plan is to step up meaningful investments and sustainability, including the return of cultural events and festivals. Want to learn more about what the Bahamas has to offer? Check out these articles: How To Spend A Fantastic Weekend In Nassau, Bahamas Carnival Is Building A New Cruise Port In The Bahamas, Why It’s So Important Disney Announces Details About New Cruise Ship Coming In 2024

BREAKING: Delhi HC Dismisses Bail Plea Of Umar Khalid – Hindustan Times https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/breaking-delhi-hc-dismisses-bail-plea-of-umar-khalid-hindustan-times/ Live Updated on Oct 18, 2022 05:34 PM IST Breaking news October 18, 2022 LIVE: Get latest news, breaking news, latest updates, live news, top headlines, breaking business news and top news of the hour. Get latest news, breaking news, latest updates, live news, top headlines, breaking business news and top news of the hour. Welcome to hindustantimes.com updates platform where you can find breaking news from India and across the world. Find fast updates about the latest news as it breaks. Follow all the updates here: Oct 18, 2022 05:34 PM IST Gyanvapi mosque case: HC grants 10 more days to ASI to file counter affidavit The Allahabad high court on Tuesday granted 10 more days to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as a last opportunity to file a counter affidavit in the Kashi Vishwanath temple-Gyanvapi mosque case. Read more Oct 18, 2022 04:16 PM IST Sanjay Raut’s judicial custody extended till October 21 Judicial custody of Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut extended until October 21; bail hearing to continue then. Sanjay Raut has been arrested by the ED in the Patra Wala Chawl case. Oct 18, 2022 03:07 PM IST PM Modi released commemorative postal stamp and commemorative coins of ₹100 denomination At the 90th Interpol General Assembly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the commemorative postal stamp and commemorative coins of ₹100 denomination. Oct 18, 2022 02:19 PM IST Delhi HC dismisses bail plea of Umar Khalid The Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed the bail plea of Umar Khalid. Oct 18, 2022 01:37 PM IST Centre hikes minimum support price for wheat by ₹110, barley by ₹100; MSP for 4 other Rabi crops hiked. The Narendra Modi government on Tuesday approved minimum support prices of six Rabi crops for marketing season 2023-24. Union minister Anurag Thakur announced that the MSP of wheat increased by ₹110, barley by ₹100, gram by ₹105, lentil or masur by ₹500, Rapeseed & Mustard by ₹400 rupees and Sunflower by ₹209 .   Oct 18, 2022 12:20 PM IST Helicopter crashes in Kedarnath with 6 passengers on board The helicopter crash in Kedarnath is extremely unfortunate. We are in touch with the State government to ascertain the magnitude of the loss, and are constantly monitoring the situation. — Jyotiraditya M. Scindia (@JM_Scindia) October 18, 2022 Helicopter crashes in Kedarnath with 6 passengers on board. Oct 18, 2022 11:54 AM IST In Jayalalithaa death, panel holds Sasikala, ex TN health minister C Vijayabadkar guilty In Jayalalithaa death, panel holds Sasikala, ex TN health minister C Vijayabadkar guilty; recommends probe in report submitted in assembly today. Oct 18, 2022 11:37 AM IST Ukraine says Russia ‘kidnapped’ two nuclear plant workers: AFP Report Ukraine’s state nuclear energy company was quoted as saying by news agencies that Russia has kidnapped two senior officials at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and their whereabouts are unknown. Oct 18, 2022 10:13 AM IST First phase of Delhi-Mumbai expressway to be completed this year Union Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari while speaking about the status of the Delhi-Mumbai Express Highway said that work on the first phase from Delhi to JNPT in Mumbai would be completed this year itself. Read more Oct 18, 2022 09:26 AM IST 47 candidates in fray for Munugode Assembly bypoll in Telangana A total of 47 candidates are in the fray for Munugode Assembly bypoll scheduled to be held on November 3, after the deadline for withdrawal of nominations ended on October 17. Oct 18, 2022 09:15 AM IST Death toll from Russia plane crash rises to 13 as search ends: ministry At least 13 people, including three children, were killed after a military plane crashed into a residential area of Yeysk in southwest Russia, Russian news agencies said Tuesday as the search for survivors ended. “Rescuers have finished excavating the rubble (…) In total, 13 people died, including three children, while 19 people were injured,” according to the ministry of emergency situations, quoted by Russian agencies following Monday’s crash. AFP Oct 18, 2022 08:43 AM IST India logs 1,542 new Covid cases in last 24 hours India on Tuesday saw over 1,500 Covid cases in the last 24 hours. The number of active cases stay above 26,400. Oct 18, 2022 08:41 AM IST Indian-American appointed to Homeland Security’s Faith-Based Security Advisory Council Indian-American Chandru Acharya from Michigan has been appointed to the Faith-Based Security Advisory Council of Homeland Security. Acharya is the lone Hindu voice in this committee of 25 distinguished faith leaders from the United States, a media release said on Monday. Oct 18, 2022 07:17 AM IST Japan to impose additional sanctions against North Korea Japan will impose additional sanctions against North Korea by freezing assets of groups involved in the development of missiles, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a regular briefing on Tuesday. “We cannot tolerate North Korea’s repeated provocative actions which threaten Japan’s security and international peace and safety,” Matsuno said. Oct 18, 2022 06:35 AM IST China recruiting British ex-military pilots to train members of PLA: Report China has recruited dozens of former Royal Air Force pilots to train members of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), news agency ANI reported. Oct 18, 2022 06:24 AM IST Australia floods crisis set to worsen amid forecast for more rain Thousands of residents across southeast Australia braced for renewed flooding on Tuesday as weather forecasters warned of more downpours later this week, while swollen rivers continued to roll downstream inundating farms, towns and homes. Oct 18, 2022 06:08 AM IST Russian military jet crashes in southwest, at least six dead A Russian military plane crashed on Monday into a residential area of Yeysk, a town in southwest Russia near the border with Ukraine, causing a huge fire and killing at least six people, according to Russian authorities. “Six people died, 19 injured including two children,” a spokesman for the ministry of emergency situations said giving an updated toll late Monday. Subscribe to our best newsletters Evening brief: Ex-British military pilots training Chinese PLA triggers alarm Updated on Oct 18, 2022 04:46 PM IST Here are today’s top news, analysis, and opinion. Know all about the latest news and other news updates from Hindustan Times. According to an official, retired British pilots are being offered as much as 237,911 Pound Sterling to help the Chinese understand how Western planes and pilots operate. Govt raises MSPs for rabi, or winter-sown, crops Updated on Oct 18, 2022 02:55 PM IST The highest increase in minimum support price (MSP) is for lentils, while wheat MSP is hiked from ₹2,015 to ₹2,125 a quintal HC rejects Umar Khalid’s bail plea in Northeast Delhi riots conspiracy case Updated on Oct 18, 2022 02:48 PM IST Umar Khalid is an accused in a larger Conspiracy related to the Northeast Delhi riots of February 2020. He was booked under the stringent anti-terror law UAPA. He was arrested on September 13, 2020. He has been in custody since then. On Bilkis Bano convicts’ release, Rahul Gandhi’s ‘standing with rapists’ attack Published on Oct 18, 2022 01:43 PM IST PM Modi had called for women empowerment during his August 15 speech. Later, the same day, all 11 life imprisonment convicts in the 2002 Bilkis Bano gang-rape case walked out of the Godhra sub-jail under the Gujarat government’s remission policy. Story Saved New Delhi 0C Tuesday, October 18, 2022

Ask Dr. Leigh: Will Cannabis Help My Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)? | GreenState – GreenState https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/ask-dr-leigh-will-cannabis-help-my-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-greenstate-greenstate/ Getty Using cannabis can have a big impact on your physical and mental health—for better, and sometimes for worse. That’s why it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before experimenting. Here at GreenState, cannabis clinician Dr. Leigh Vinocur is here to answer your questions on healthy living with cannabis. Editor’s Note: The answer to this question is meant to supplement, not replace, advice, diagnoses, and treatment from a healthcare provider.  Always consult a medical professional when using cannabis for medicinal purposes, and do not disregard the advice of your healthcare provider because of anything you may read in this article.  Q: Will cannabis help my attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? A: This is an interesting question. While there is not a lot of research on the subject, some patients with ADHD say it can help. ADHD is listed as a mental health condition in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th edition (DSM-5) but it is actually a neurodevelopmental condition. The diagnosis of ADHD has increased exponentially in the last 50 years with one in 10 children being diagnosed in the US, and it carries over into adulthood. It is characterized by difficulties in maintaining attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Most of the cognitive brain’s function is to regulate input, and with ADHD the brain is basically overwhelmed with too much information coming in too fast, so it can’t properly regulate or prioritize the information. This can put people at risk for other psychiatric conditions such as anxiety and depression and sometimes even substance abuse. There are three types of ADHD: predominately attention deficit (ADD), predominantly impulsive hyperactivity, and a combination of both. There is also evidence that patients with ADHD may have abnormal functioning in their endocannabinoid system (ECS). Patients with ADHD have been found to have abnormal or altered anandamide breakdown. Anandamide, our own internal cannabinoid, interacts with the CB1 receptors in areas of the brain affecting memory and learning. Anandamide is involved in modulating the brain’s neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin, which are chemical messengers between nerve cells. Dopamine involves areas in the brain affecting reward and motivation as well as planning, problem-solving and attention. Norepinephrine involves areas in the brain controlling alertness, attention, and memory. Serotonin involves areas in the brain that regulate impulse control and aggression. Any abnormalities with these messages probably contribute to the symptoms of ADHD such as problems with focus, prioritization, impulsivity and completion of tasks, as well as organizational skills. As stated above, there is not a lot of human clinical research on cannabis and ADHD. However, a 2016 study evaluated an online patient discussion forum where users talked about their cannabis use and ADHD with each other. This review found 25% (99 posts) stated that cannabis helped with their ADHD. Within those 99 posts, there were 62 posts that mentioned improvement of at least one ADHD symptom, such as inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. 8% of the posts found that it is harmful (31 posts), and 5% of the posts found that it is both therapeutic and harmful (19 posts) while only 2% that it no effect on their ADHD (7 posts.) A clinical trial in the UK in 2017 looked at the drug nabiximols, the brand name Sativex which is a 1:1 CBD to THC product. They found patients did say there was some improvement with many patients reporting better testing scores overall when compared to placebo, as well as improvement in their impulsivity and hyperactivity. However, it was not statistically significant. A more recent 2020 study out of Israel did find that the treatment of ADHD with cannabinoids, including higher levels of CBN, was associated with decreased symptoms. Clinically, I have seen patients who have reported that they are able to better focus and complete a task, retain information better, and be more productive and creative when using cannabis. Many patients describe their mind constantly racing between stimuli and thoughts about them, as well as the pressures they can feel from juggling the multiple tasks and activities expected of them. Perhaps the calming effects of cannabis and the reduction in anxiety that can be associated with it quiets the incoming stimuli that ADHD patients can’t turn off or prioritize. Many describe THC-dominant preparations have been found to help lower their impulsivity and increase attention, focus and memory. Often, they say it has less side effects than prescription drugs they have used. Several have said that cannabis products with higher pinene profiles also help, as do CBG and THCA. As is usually the case, in pediatric care we try to use CBD-dominant products with around 20-25:1 ratios of CBD to THC. Sometimes parents do start lowering that ratio as needed, especially in children with other conditions such as autism and seizures. But I do remind patients that very high THC content can be a double-edged sword. Over-intoxication can possibly interfere with a person’s ability to remember and learn. Got cannabis questions? Ask Doctor Leigh. Send your questions to GreenState’s Assistant Editor Elissa Esher at elli.esher@hearst.com and keep an eye out for new answers from Dr. Leigh Vinocur every month. Dr. Leigh Vinocur is a board-certified emergency physician who also has a cannabis consulting practice for patients and industry. She is a member of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians and a graduate of the inaugural class, with the first Master of Science in the country in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics from the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. For more advice from Dr. Leigh and other cannabis-informed healthcare professionals Dr. Leslie Matthews and Dr. Hal Altman, listen to “Cannabis Grand Rounds” here:  The response to this question was not written or edited by Hearst. The authors are solely responsible for the content.