Tesla’s Optimus And The Problem With Humanoids – BBC https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/teslas-optimus-and-the-problem-with-humanoids-bbc/
Image source, Tesla
Image caption,
Optimus was unveiled at Tesla’s AI (artificial-intelligence) day
By Zoe Kleinman
Technology editor
Fans of Tesla and Elon Musk were enthralled by the unveiling of Optimus, a prototype humanoid robot, in California last week.
I also enjoyed the theatrics – but I’m not alone in wondering why, apart from the wow factor, Optimus had to be human-like.
And while the fans hate any perceived criticism, Mr Musk himself has said Optimus is nowhere near market-ready.
The argument made for humanoids is they are best equipped to work with human tools, in human environments. People may feel more comfortable interacting with something that looks like a bit like them. And of course, they look great.
But how practical are they?
Legs v wheels
“A lot of companies work in the area of humanoids because it’s interesting for the public to see,” Owen Nicholson, chief executive of Slamcore, which specialises in sensor-driven vision, says.
“But wheel-based robots and even drones are so much easier to control. The amount of work that goes into just getting a humanoid to stand upright is huge.”
Media caption,
Some of the falls experienced by competitors in the Darpa Robotics Challenge
The robotics behind Optimus look sound – Tesla is not exactly a novice at all this – but, Mr Nicholson says, by its release, the machine will have evolved into something physically more practical.
“I’d put money on them having more wheel-based robots,” he adds.
Reporting robots
In my job, I have seen lots of robots – all shapes and sizes – designed to clean, care for the elderly, teach, perform surgery, work as receptionists and tour guides, play Scrabble and chess, sing and dance, mix cocktails, pack shopping, deliver groceries, have sex, perform search and rescue and build cars.
You name it, somebody is probably trying to build a robot for it.
Some of them work better than others – and demonstrations rarely go to plan.
But what the sci-fi films fail to show is all the wires, the pre-programming and the very brief battery life. As I discovered when trying to film them, early football-playing robots could last for only 10 minutes.
Image caption,
Trying to make friends with Sophia the Robot
I have had excruciating “conversations” with conversational robots, watched many devices fail to complete the tasks they were designed for, and seen the panic in the eyes of the executives in the room when a developer brandishing a bunch of wires says: “We just need to reboot.”
But robots have advanced considerably faster than humans in the past decade. The robots of 2022 are far more skilled than those I first saw, in 2008, whereas I have acquired little more than a few grey hairs.
Time and time again though, the most impressive performers tend not to look like people. Precision-surgery robots, warehouse robots, window-cleaning robots – none of them is remotely humanoid.
If the face fits
Expectation may be part of the problem.
Humanoids might be expected to function like people, performing a variety of different tasks – mowing the lawn, making a sandwich, cuddling a baby.
But Prof Helen Hastie, of the National Robotarium, in Edinburgh, says robots are a very long way off being able to multi-task.
“What’s most important is that the robot is fit for the task it is designed for,” she says.
Boston Dynamics’ doglike quadruped Spot is ideally suited to rough terrains, such as bombed-out buildings – but a robot designed to, say, work in a kitchen work may need no legs at all.
Robots designed to work with vulnerable people, for example in care homes, might be better suited to looking a bit more human – but not too much.
It is a phenomenon known as the uncanny valley – if something looks human-like but not believably so, it becomes unnerving and even frightening.
As Prof Helen Hastie says: “If it’s too human-like, it will put off the human.”
GRAPHIC: Officer Fired After Shooting Teen Eating Hamburger In McDonalds Parking Lot Western Massachusetts News
GRAPHIC: Officer Fired After Shooting Teen Eating Hamburger In McDonald’s Parking Lot – Western Massachusetts News https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/graphic-officer-fired-after-shooting-teen-eating-hamburger-in-mcdonalds-parking-lot-western-massachusetts-news/
SAN ANTONIO, Texas (AP) – A Texas police officer who shot and wounded a teenager who had been sitting in his car eating a hamburger has been fired, police said.
San Antonio Officer James Brennand was fired after shooting Erik Cantu, 17, on Oct. 2 in a fast-food restaurant parking lot, police training commander Alyssa Campos said in a video statement released Wednesday.
Brennand had responded to an unrelated disturbance at the fast-food restaurant when he saw the Cantu inside the car, which had evaded him a day earlier, Campos said.
A Texas prosecutor said in a statement Friday that he has not seen enough evidence to file charges against the teenager.
“While Sunday’s shooting of an unarmed teenager by a then-San Antonio Police officer remains under investigation, the facts and evidence we have received so far led us to reject the charges against Erik Cantu for further investigation,” Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales said.
Brennand, who had been on the force for less than one year, violated his training and police procedures after approaching the car, Campos said.
“The officer abruptly opened the driver’s door and ordered the driver out of the car” before the arrival of backup officers that Brennand had requested, Campos said.
Cantu, in the officer’s body camera video, looks toward Brennand while holding a hamburger, then backs the car away, striking the officer with the open door.
Brennand then opened fire several times as the door closed and Cantu drove away.
Cantu, who was struck by gunfire, stopped nearby where he and a passenger, who was not injured, were found by police.
“There is nothing I can say in defense of that officer’s actions that night,” Police Chief William McManus told WOAI-TV. “I think what happened, initially, there was some contact made, but that did not justify the shooting.”
Cantu was hospitalized in stable condition and initially charged with evading police and aggravated assault.
Gonzales, the district attorney, said no decision had been made on whether to pursue charges against Brennand, pending the outcome of a police investigation into the shooting.
“As we do with all officer-involved shootings that result in death or serious injury, we will submit the case to a Grand Jury for their consideration. Until that happens, we can make no further comment on this matter,” Gonzales said.
Police and an attorney for Cantu did not immediately return phone calls for comment on Friday.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
What You Should Know Before Cruising On The Discovery Princess TravelPulse
What You Should Know Before Cruising On The Discovery Princess – TravelPulse https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/what-you-should-know-before-cruising-on-the-discovery-princess-travelpulse/
Princess Cruises is known for offering elegant ships with state-of-the-art technology, as well as an upscale cruising experience that appeals to audiences of all ages. However, the cruise line’s mastery of the perfect cruise vacation has never been more on display than it is on the brand’s new cruise ship, the Discovery Princess.
Delivered during an official handover at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy in January of 2022, the Discovery Princess has many of the popular features of other Princess Cruises ships. For example, traveling on the Discovery Princess gives you the chance to book one of the brand’s famous Sky Suites, as well as access to an on-board casino and a generous central corridor that features a coffee shop, plenty of bars and seating and an endless array of live entertainment.
Still, there are lots of added features to love about this ship, from its onboard mini golf course to its self-service laundry rooms and huge thermal suite. If you’re considering a cruise on the Discover Princess in the next few years, you should learn about the ship’s exciting features and everything else you should expect.
Business Highlights: Online Gambling Fed Rate Hikes The Associated Press En Español
Business Highlights: Online Gambling, Fed Rate Hikes – The Associated Press – En Español https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/business-highlights-online-gambling-fed-rate-hikes-the-associated-press-en-espanol/
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North Dakota tribes want exclusive rights on online gambling
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota’s five American Indian tribes want exclusive rights to host internet gambling and sports betting throughout the state utilizing servers located on their reservations. The tribes are turning to Republican Gov. Doug Burgum to approve the idea, under tribal-state agreements known as a compacts. The current compacts expire at the end of this year and only Burgum can approve them. The governor wouldn’t comment on the proposal because negotiations are ongoing. Tribes argue the provision is needed because of the explosion of electronic pull tab machines across the state that have hurt their casinos, which are central to many tribes’ economies.
___
Another month of solid US hiring suggests more big Fed hikes
WASHINGTON (AP) — America’s employers slowed their hiring in September but still added 263,000 jobs, a solid figure that will likely keep the Federal Reserve on pace to keep raising interest rates aggressively to fight persistently high inflation. Hiring fell from 315,000 in August to the weakest monthly gain since April 2021. The unemployment rate fell from 3.7% to 3.5%, matching a half-century low. The Fed is hoping that a slower pace of hiring would eventually mean less pressure on employers to raise pay and pass those costs on to their customers through price increases — a recipe for high inflation. But September’s job growth was likely too robust to satisfy the central bank’s inflation fighters.
___
To buy Twitter, Musk has to keep banks, investors on board
If the squabbling ever stops over Elon Musk’s renewed bid to buy Twitter, experts say he still faces a huge obstacle to closing the $44 billion deal: Keeping his financing in place. Earlier this week Musk reversed course and said he’d go through with acquiring the social media company under the same terms he agreed to in April. But after months of tweetstorms and legal barbs, there are scars and suspicions on both sides. Both sides are now fighting over whether Twitter’s lawsuit against Musk should be dropped. For the deal to go through, Musk has to hold together a group of banks and investors that will help him pay for the purchase.
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Drought takes toll on country’s largest cotton producer
LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — Drought and extreme heat have severely damaged much of the cotton harvest in the U.S., which produces roughly 35% of the world’s crop. Nowhere is this more apparent than the Texas High Plains, the windswept region that grows most of the crop in the nation’s top cotton-producing state. Forecasters and agricultural economists say that Texas cotton farmers could abandon nearly 70% of what they planted in the spring, making it the worst harvest in more than a decade. Losses could cost the region $1.2 billion, despite the federal insurance payments that farmers rely on during bad harvest years.
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No summit breakthrough, EU struggles with gas price cap plan
PRAGUE (AP) — European Union leaders are struggling to bridge significant differences over a natural gas price cap as winter approaches and Russia’s war on Ukraine fuels an energy crisis. It’s hoped that a price cap will contain a crisis that is driving up prices for consumers and businesses. Russia has tightened the gas taps as European governments support Ukraine with weapons and money. Yet an EU leaders summit in Prague on Friday didn’t produce a breakthrough on the gas cap. Standing in the way of an agreement was the simple fact that each EU member country depends on different energy sources and suppliers. The leaders hope to make more progress when they meet again on Oct. 20-21.
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Hurricane Ian floods leave mess, insurance questions behind
NORTH PORT, Fla. (AP) — Christine Barrett and her family had to climb on top of their kitchen cabinets because of flooding that surged into their house during Hurricane Ian. They put water wings on their 1-year-old, and were rescued by boat the next day. Their community of North Port is about 5 miles inland. And the Barretts — like many neighbors — live in areas where flood insurance isn’t required. And therefore they don’t have it. Now many wonder how they’ll afford much-needed repairs. There are concerns that not enough people nationally have flood insurance at a time when climate change is believed to be making storms wetter. The Insurance Information Institute says only about 4% of homeowners nationwide have flood insurance although 90% of catastrophes in the U.S. involve flooding.
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Commerce tightens export controls on high end chips to China
The Commerce Department is tightening export controls to limit China’s ability to get advanced computing chips, develop and maintain supercomputers, and make advanced semiconductors. The department said Friday that its updated export controls are focusing on these areas because China can use the chips, supercomputers and semiconductors to create advanced military systems including weapons of mass destruction; commit human rights abuses and improve the speed and accuracy of its military decision making, planning, and logistics.
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Binance crypto exchange hit by latest digital currency hack
Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, may have lost more than $100 million following a hack of its Binance Smart Chain blockchain network. A reddit post by Binance discussing the incident said that the company temporarily suspended its BNB smart chain after detecting an exploit between two blockchains. “The issue is contained now. Your funds are safe. We apologize for the inconvenience and will provide further updates accordingly,” CEO Changpeng Zhao said in a tweet. The post estimated that $100 million to $110 million in funds were taken, but that approximately $7 million was able to be frozen.
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The S&P 500 fell 104.86 points, or 2.8%, to 3,639.66. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 630.15 points, or 2.1%, to 29,296.79. The Nasdaq fell 420.91 points, or 3.8%, to 10,652.40. The Russell 2000 index of smaller companies fell 50.36 points, or 2.9%, to 1,702.15.
DAs Office Family Justice Center To Host Mid-October Health Fair Vacaville Reporter
DA’s Office, Family Justice Center To Host Mid-October Health Fair – Vacaville Reporter https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/das-office-family-justice-center-to-host-mid-october-health-fair-vacaville-reporter/
A free family event to promote healthy living in Solano County will be held in the coming days in Fairfield.
The Solano County District Attorney’s Office, which is teaming up with the Family Justice Center and Victims Empowerment Support Team (VEST), will host the Lori Frank Memorial Health Fair on Oct. 15.
The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the annex law, at 604 Empire St., and will include more than 60 local vendors.
The fair will feature a wide variety of activities for people of all ages. They include free flu shots, health screenings, tasty treats, music, K-9 demonstrations, pumpkin decorating, arts and crafts, local nonprofit service providers, health and wellness business vendors, public safety vehicle demonstrations, food trucks and much, much more, said Monica Martinez, a spokeswoman for the DA’s Office.
“We hope that you join us again this year as we celebrate our great community partnerships and healthy living throughout Solano County,” District Attorney Krishna Abrams said in a press statement. “With so many family-friendly activities to choose from, there will be something for everyone.”
For more information, call the Solano Family Justice Center, telephonecall 784-7635.
How To Watch NC State Vs. Florida State: NCAA Football Live Stream Info TV Channel Time Game Odds CBS Sports
How To Watch NC State Vs. Florida State: NCAA Football Live Stream Info, TV Channel, Time, Game Odds – CBS Sports https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/how-to-watch-nc-state-vs-florida-state-ncaa-football-live-stream-info-tv-channel-time-game-odds-cbs-sports/
Who’s Playing
Florida State @ No. 14 NC State
Current Records: Florida State 4-1; NC State 4-1
What to Know
The Florida State Seminoles have enjoyed the comforts of home their last two games, but now they must head out on the road. FSU and the NC State Wolfpack will face off in an ACC battle at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday at Carter-Finley Stadium. Given that both teams suffered a loss in their last game, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this contest.
The Seminoles might have drawn first blood against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons last week, but it was Wake Forest who got the last laugh. FSU fell to Wake Forest 31-21. Despite the loss, FSU had strong showings from WR Mycah Pittman, who caught five passes for two TDs and 85 yards, and QB Jordan Travis, who passed for three TDs and 281 yards on 35 attempts.
FSU’s defense was a presence as well, as it got past the Demon Deacons’ offensive line to sack QB Sam Hartman four times for a total loss of 31 yards. It was a group effort with four guys contributing.
Meanwhile, NC State came up short against the Clemson Tigers last week, falling 30-20. No one had a standout game offensively for NC State, but QB Devin Leary led the way with two touchdowns.
FSU is expected to lose this next one by 3. Those burned by picking them against the spread last week might want to keep in mind that the team has not yet dropped back-to-back games against the spread this season.
The losses bumped both teams down to an identical 4-1. A couple stats to keep an eye on: FSU enters the matchup with 481.6 yards per game on average, good for 17th best in the nation. But the Wolfpack rank 16th in the nation when it comes to yards allowed per game, with only 280 on average. We’ll see which of these strengths — offense or defense — will win out.
How To Watch
When: Saturday at 8 p.m. ET
Where: Carter-Finley Stadium — Raleigh, North Carolina
TV: ACC Network
Online streaming: fuboTV (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.)
Follow: CBS Sports App
Odds
The Wolfpack are a 3-point favorite against the Seminoles, according to the latest college football odds.
Over/Under: -110
See college football picks for every single game, including this one, from SportsLine’s advanced computer model. Get picks now.
Series History
NC State have won four out of their last seven games against Florida State.
Nov 06, 2021 – NC State 28 vs. Florida State 14
Nov 14, 2020 – NC State 38 vs. Florida State 22
Sep 28, 2019 – Florida State 31 vs. NC State 13
Nov 03, 2018 – NC State 47 vs. Florida State 28
Sep 23, 2017 – NC State 27 vs. Florida State 21
Nov 05, 2016 – Florida State 24 vs. NC State 20
Nov 14, 2015 – Florida State 34 vs. NC State 17
Two Weeks Into Its Metaverse Debut Walmart Sets Up Shop In Robloxs Livetopia Adweek
Two Weeks Into Its Metaverse Debut, Walmart Sets Up Shop In Roblox’s Livetopia – Adweek https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/two-weeks-into-its-metaverse-debut-walmart-sets-up-shop-in-robloxs-livetopia-adweek/
Which social media strategies are winning long-term loyalty and how can your brand build memorable and shoppable moments in the space? Find out at Social Media Week Europe, 7–9 Nov. in London. Virtual passes also available. Sign up today.
You’re a brand that has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars and hours of labor building an activation in the metaverse. But how do you make sure people show up in a space that exists outside of the traditional realms of marketing?
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50 Hidden Gems On Amazon That Seem Expensive But Are Actually Cheap As Hell Inverse
50 Hidden Gems On Amazon That Seem Expensive But Are Actually Cheap As Hell – Inverse https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/50-hidden-gems-on-amazon-that-seem-expensive-but-are-actually-cheap-as-hell-inverse/
Shopping
We only recommend products we love and that we think you will, too. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team.
I love it when someone walks into my home for the first time and admires one of my many bargain finds, clearly thinking that I spent a fortune on it. I shouldn’t tell them, of course, that I didn’t. The smart play is to let them think I dropped big bucks while keeping my discoveries to myself. But I can’t help it. I always spill. Half the fun of shopping, I think, is finding a bargain. And half the fun of finding a bargain is sharing it with someone who will also enjoy owning it.
I am not talking about the kind of bargain that’s a cheap knock-off or counterfeit. I like things that are authentically awesome. These are products that were designed to be effective at what they do, and high-quality, but also completely affordable for those of us who don’t own three sports cars and a summer home. There are more of them out there than you would imagine, too. In fact, here are 50 hidden gems on Amazon that seem expensive but are actually cheap as hell. I’m sure you will find something that will make your visitors think you spent a fortune. Tell them you found a bargain… or let them believe what they like. That’s up to you.
01
This collection of charming ceramic pots for your succulents
Create a striking display of succulents on a window sill with this collection of six small ceramic pots, each in a different unique design. They are sized for small cuttings or tiny succulents, and each comes with a bamboo tray to catch water as it drains through the bottom.
“These are just about the cutest collection of unique little pots I’ve ever seen,” said one reviewer. “They are excellent for starting seeds, especially slow-growing ones.”
02
This workhorse chef’s knife that cuts like it’s super expensive
A fine kitchen knife can be a major investment. Or, in the case of this 8-inch chef knife, it can look and feel like you spent a tidy sum but cost less than a couple of cocktails. The blade is created from one solid piece of high-carbon steel, balanced, and razor sharp. It comes with a knife sharpener and blade cover to keep the edge honed and protected.
03
A quiet cool-mist humidifier for small spaces
This small, easy-to-operate humidifier delivers instant cool-mist humidity to your airspace at the turn of a dial. It holds 1.7 liters of water so it will run for up to nine hours, moistening the air so that it’s easy on your sinuses and lungs all night or day. Over 8,000 people give it five stars and use it for themselves, babies, or even orchids and other plant friends.
04
These LED lights that make your car’s interior so flash
Trick out the interior of your ride with these LED car lights that plug into the lighter and let you control the scene with an app on your phone. You can pick from 16 million colors (yes) and 30 modes, and even set it to sync with your music. They peel and stick under the dash, along the console, or wherever you like and turn any drive into a party.
“I love setting the mood in my car as well as being able to see items that have fallen on my floor mats without getting a flashlight,” said one practical reviewer.
05
A set of packing cubes for a suitcase you can live out of
Organize your clothes into these sleek and affordable packing cubes as you pack and your entire trip will go more smoothly. Dressing from these cubes is so easy you won’t need to unpack, and if your suitcase ever spills open you won’t have to repack everything piecemeal. There are four cubes in graduating sizes to fit everything from underwear to sweaters and a dirty laundry bag. Choose from nine colors.
06
A luxuriously soft set of sheets that looks so expensive
Dress your bed in this silky, colorful sheet set and it will feel like a luxury upgrade. But it’s so affordable! The soft, microfiber fabric is breathable, cooling in summer and warm in the winter, and goes into the washer and dryer without a problem. There are beautiful colors to choose from and over 59,000 people gave them a perfect five stars.
07
A set of elegant stemless wine glasses for $15
Stemless wine glasses are so much easier to live with than stemmed ones. They don’t knock over as easily and can go right in the dishwasher for cleanup. This set of four holds 15 ounces each, has a flat bottom, and is a versatile shape that brings out the best in many wines.
“As someone whose hand gestures become proportionately exuberant to the number of glasses of Pinot Noir, these stemless classic beauties are the perfect solution for eliminating the tabletop bowling ball down the alley kind of skids and crashes that stemmed glasses present for me,” said one eloquent reviewer.
08
The diffuser that’s also an alarm clock & speaker
This little essential oil diffuser is here to command your bedside table. It will fill the air you breathe, as you sleep, with a cool mist that’s soothing to your throat and sinuses and emit a calming scent if you add essential oils to the water. It’s also a Bluetooth speaker so it will play white noise, calming music, or read a book to you as you drift off. And the built-in alarm clock will wake you in the morning.
09
A big canvas toiletry bag so your personal care items are packed & ready
Instead of running around before a trip trying to remember everything from shampoo to medications, keep this smart canvas toiletry bag packed with travel-sized essentials. It’s compact yet roomy and drops easily into your suitcase. When you arrive at your destination, everything you need to stay groomed and healthy will be easy to find. There are six colors to choose from, the big vegan leather handle hangs your gear from a bathroom hook, and an internal pocket is a great place to stash small items.
10
This bifold wallet that’s slim, super functional, & totally affordable
With seven card pockets and a metal clip for cash, this slim bifold money clip wallet handles all your essentials easily, but also fits in a breast pocket and won’t bulge out your slim jeans. It comes in eight colors.
“Not only is it an attractive, well-designed wallet, it really is amazing how functional it is. There are enough slots to hold all of the essential needs you want, a great built-in money clip, and an outside clear covered pocket for my [ID],” said one reviewer.
11
This sleek charging station for tidy & fast power-ups
If you live amidst cable chaos, plug in this USB charging station and end that. End, too, the constant plugging and unplugging of devices sharing one outlet. This kit charges four gadgets at once from one plug and comes with five short cords so it won’t make a snarled mess doing it. LED indicators on each section alert you when a device is charged. And the whole thing fits in a small footprint on your desk.
12
A handheld frother for yummy lattes & foamy matchas at home
Love your café for the foamy lattes, matcha, and cappuccinos? You can do that at home, without getting dressed or forking over too much cash, with this electric milk frother. It runs on batteries, spins fast enough to turn warm or cold milk of all kinds into a delicious foam, and stands up on its own on the counter.
“The froth has a light, creamy, and airy texture and there’s just something a little extra special about my first cup of coffee each day being topped with it,” said one fan.
13
A set of plush cotton bath towels that’s soft & affordable
Refresh your bathroom with brand new towels without going broke in the process. This set of eight 100% cotton bath towels — two bath towels, two hand towels, and four washcloths — is lush and soft, comes in 11 colors for the fresh new look of your choice, and will get softer and more absorbent the more you use and wash them.
14
A white noise machine that helps you sleep & focus
When distractions — in the form of sounds you can’t control or your own thoughts — keep you from sleeping or focusing, turn on your favorite sound from the six options in this portable white noise machine. It will drown out noisy neighbors, traffic, the snoring of your bedmate, or whatever is bothering you with calming sounds like a babbling brook, rain, or the ocean.
“This little machine is a ticket to a better night’s sleep,” said one reviewer. “Helps to drown out my husband’s snoring. [I] love the RAIN sound.”
15
A pet brush that catches shedding fur before it blankets your home
Brush your shedding pet with this de-shedding tool and get that fur captured before it blankets the couch. The 4-inch stainless steel blade reaches into the undercoat to remove loose hair. Pets love this like humans love a spa treatment and the ergonomic handle is easy on your hands, too. Plus, it’s cheaper than more expensive brands.
“Both our labs … loved it!” said one reviewer. “[It] brushed out huge wads of fur with no fuss, no pain, no vacuum! [The dogs] act like it feels like a good scratching!”
16
A 3-pack of woven nylon iPhone chargers that doesn’t cost a fortune
These three iPhone chargers are high quality — made from braided nylon that is flexible and resists splitting and abrasion, and with fast charging capability — yet completely affordable. The cords are 6 feet long so you can reach the plug behind the bed and reviewers gave them over 18,000 five-star ratings.
17
This waterproof Bluetooth speaker that plays all day on a charge
This Bluetooth speaker might be small, but it is powerful and feature-rich. It’s waterproof enough to take to the beach or play in the shower and will run for 1,500 minutes on a single charge. You can pair two of them together for stereo sound or grab one and take it to the pool. Almost 19,000 people gave it five stars.
18
These L...
Shiba Inu Price Prediction Heres Why SHIB Can Pump This Week Cryptonews
Shiba Inu Price Prediction – Here’s Why SHIB Can Pump This Week – Cryptonews https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/shiba-inu-price-prediction-heres-why-shib-can-pump-this-week-cryptonews/
Disclaimer: The Industry Talk section features insights by crypto industry players and is not a part of the editorial content of Cryptonews.com.
Shiba Inu (SHIB) has been moving downward in line with the broader market in recent weeks. However, recent developments in the Shiba ecosystem could lead to a price pump.
SHIB Price Action
Currently, Shiba Inu trades at $0.0000117. The digital asset’s price has decreased by 2.46% in the past 24 hours, a 0.5% increase in the past week.
The crypto asset is trading in line with the broader market, which has declined by 0.75% in the past 24 hours.
SHIB price dynamics indicate some weakened technicals. The crypto is trading below all its moving average (MA) indicators, especially the 10-day MA of $0.000012. SHIB’s negative moving average convergence divergence (MACD) also indicates a sell signal.
SHIB’s relative strength index (RSI) of 50.11 shows that the coin remains underbought.
Buy SHIB Now on eToro
Shiba Eternity Boosts SHIB’s Prospects
A significant source of bullish momentum will be Shiba Eternity, the mobile game developed by Shiba Inu and PlaySide Studios. According to reports, the game was on the list of top 20 apps on the Apple App Store on its first release day.
Shiba Eternity is a free card strategy game. It is also a part of the SHIB burning strategy; transactions within the game are subject to token burns that help to reduce SHIB’s circulating supply.
With a reported 10,000 downloads on its first day, Shiba Eternity demonstrates impressive momentum. Continued adoption should spur the game even more, and reflect well on the price of SHIB as well.
IMPT: High-Value Crypto Investment
While SHIB looks to see some impressive gains, value-seeking investors can also consider IMPT, the widely-proclaimed greenest cryptocurrency, which allows individuals to join the war against climate change.
IMPT is the native token for the Impact Protocol, a blockchain project that seeks to use Blockchain technology in the fight against climate change. The protocol allows users to buy carbon credits, which can then be used to offset their carbon footprint. Its developers are looking to improve transparency and efficiency in the fight against rising global temperatures, meaning that IMPT could be the perfect coin for ESG-focused investors.
The crypto asset has already seen impressive investor demand, with a presale that raised over $500,000 on its first day. Investors can still buy IMPT tokens on presale on the IMPT website.
Visit IMPT Now
M|MBR Systems Unveils U.S. Membrane Bioreactor Technology Hub Businesswire.com
M|MBR Systems Unveils U.S. Membrane Bioreactor Technology Hub – Businesswire.com https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/mmbr-systems-unveils-u-s-membrane-bioreactor-technology-hub-businesswire-com/
AUSTIN, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Membrane bioreactor (MBR) services leader M|MBR Systems today announced the creation of the Austin-based MBR Technology Hub (MBR Hub) to make MBR parts, solutions and modular systems readily accessible to protect lakes, rivers, aquifers, and streams from damaging pollution. The mission of the Hub is to drive innovation, rapidly deploy modular MBR solutions, and provide compatible replacement parts for all MBR plants in service today.
Historically, the ability of stakeholders to access MBR solutions has been limited by antiquated delivery methods, siloed proprietary designs and, most recently, global supply chain shortages. Through collaborations with Texas businesses and global partners like MANN+HUMMEL, Toray Membrane USA, BluBox by Sciens, WTA Technologies, and Hi-Line Industries, M|MBR has created a more efficient conduit between MBR technology providers and end users. From the Hub, M|MBR can now rapidly design and ship membrane solutions in days or weeks. In contrast, traditional delivery methods, often segmented and dependent on overseas shipments, can take 6 months to a year or more.
“Owners and operators can’t afford to wait a year for MBR parts, they can’t be limited to one source for help, and they shouldn’t be stuck with less efficient, older products,” said Dennis Livingston, technical services director and co-founder of M|MBR Systems. “The MBR Technology Hub brings together global product leaders, system integrators and application experts, under one roof, to make this critical MBR technology more accessible through collaboration. We’re connecting global technology leaders to small businesses in Texas to do big things when it comes to protecting one of our most valuable resources: clean water.”
MBR Industry Distribution Center Consolidates Innovations and Speeds Delivery
Leveraging two decades of experience, M|MBR has expanded its partnership with Hi-Line Industries to create the Hub as a universal resource center for MBR services, parts and modular solutions in Brenham, TX.
For larger decentralized, or point-of-use applications, M|MBR, BluBox, Hi-Line and Hyperion designed the BluBox Modular MBR System. Each BluBox unit can treat up to 130,000 gallons per day (gpd). The units are fully integrated, pre-built and pre-tested at Hi-Line using Hub services and components. There are usually several systems in some stage of production or in inventory. Customers can also go directly to BluBox, a subsidiary of Sciens Capital, to lease, rent or purchase equipment that is built and stored at Hi-Line. A BluBox can typically be delivered in 14 to 20 weeks.
Many existing MBR plants equipped with flat-plate technologies now have an option for membrane parts through the MBR Hub. For owners that want to increase membrane filtration area or address persistent performance challenges, M|MBR can select replacement equipment from Hub inventory that will fit seamlessly into existing infrastructure. M|MBR and Hub partners can deliver and install drop-in, upgrade solutions to increase filtration capacity from 30 to 300 percent depending on the existing product type and site constraints.
History of Innovation, Integration and Partner Collaboration
The MBR Hub is built on M|MBR Systems’ history in pioneering MBR technology. At the Hub, technology partners rely on M|MBR to guide end users to select the right solution based on customer preferences, project requirements and product specifications. Some of the MBR innovations available from the Hub include:
MANN+HUMMEL BIO-CEL® Membrane Modules are M|MBR’s primary ultrafiltration (UF) solution. The L-2 is 15 to 39 times more durable in key areas than its predecessors and is clogging resistant. The next-generation BIO-CEL M+ has a stackable, modular design and utilizes a higher-capacity PVDF membrane. The L-2 and M+ modules are compatible with select Ovivo and Microdyn Nadir systems.
WTA MYTEX Membrane Modules are M|MBR’s microfiltration (MF) solution. MYTEX module configurations are highly customizable, flexible and durable. MYTEX modules from the MBR Hub are built using US-manufactured, stainless-steel frames and locally made diffusers. MYTEX modules have a transmembrane pressure limit that is 2 to 4 times higher than similar products.
Toray MBR Membrane Modules are directly compatible with selected systems by Enviroquip, Ovivo, and Kubota that use rigid plates. Most Toray modules delivered from the Hub are built using US-manufactured, stainless-steel frames and locally made diffusers. In some cases, Hub modules can be used to double the filtration area of a legacy MBR system.
STREAMETRIC Remote Monitoring is M|MBR’s standard platform for remote performance tracking and plant diagnostics. M|MBR helped develop STREAMETRIC’s powerful, easy-to-use monitoring platform. Data insights and automated reports are used to optimize MBR operations.
Additional Resources
Go to the MBR Hub web page to register for product information, facility tours and demos.
Watch the MBR Hub video.
Read what industry leaders are saying about MBR.
Read the blog for more information.
Attendees of WEFTEC22 in New Orleans can meet M|MBR product experts at booths hosted by MANN+HUMMEL (#2052), STREAMETRIC (#2054), WTA (#1853), and Toray (#1316)
What Industry Leaders Are Saying About MBR Technologies
Rick Barrett, CEO, BluBox:
“Traditional wastewater treatment plants can take years to design, construct and commission. With help from our partner M|MBR, we can deliver a made-in-America BluBox modular MBR system in about 14 weeks. Membrane modules are pulled from inventory at the MBR Hub for our BluBox Units so that we can put wastewater treatment solutions into the hands of municipalities and developers fast.”
Matthew Rutherford, Technical Service Engineering Manager, MANN+HUMMEL:
“A common challenge with older MBR systems is called clogging. The MANN+HUMMEL BIO-CEL® L-2 module is one of the most clogging-resistant products available. It’s also one of our most durable products. Our new product called the BIO-CEL M+ builds on nearly two decades of industry experience and is equipped with high capacity membrane material. Customers looking to replace legacy products should reach out to M|MBR for quick delivery.”
Kevin Stock, CEO, STREAMETRIC:
“Many remote monitoring tools are complicated to set up and to use. Operators need easy access to online data and insightful reports to help them run MBR systems. Jointly developed with M|MBR, STREAMETRIC reports put customizable, actionable data into the hands of decision makers fast. Using this cloud-based tool, customers can proactively prevent problems and maximize the return on their MBR investments.”
Sean Carter, Sales Director, Toray Membrane USA:
“In the wake of worldwide supply chain issues, equipment lead times have dramatically increased. But from the Tech Hub, M|MBR can deliver Toray-based modules from USA stocking locations that can be dropped onto a competitor’s diffuser in a matter of hours and in some cases nearly double filtration capacity. The Tech Hub makes it easier for customers to benefit from Toray’s innovative membranes combined with M|MBR’s trusted service from some of the industry’s top experts.
Carsten Bachert, Managing Director, WTA Technologies:
“Owners looking to retrofit existing wastewater treatment systems, need right-sized membrane equipment. One size doesn’t fit all. WTA’s MYTEX module specifications can be tailored to match project requirements and customer preferences. We can do this faster, and better, by working together with M|MBR. Customized modules, built at the MBR Tech Hub, can drop into place and maximize treatment capacity.”
About M|MBR Systems
M|MBR Systems is dedicated to the delivery, service and optimization of membrane bioreactor (MBR) projects for wastewater treatment. The company’s history includes the first rigid flat plate and flexible flat sheet MBR systems in the U.S., nearly 325 complete systems, and numerous MBR-related innovations. Leveraging two decades of MBR experience, strategic partnerships, and powerful web-based analytics, the M|MBR team specializes in system optimization and the rapid delivery of modular MBR solutions. From its Austin-based MBR Technology Hub, M|MBR can ship replacement membrane equipment for most major brands in days and can quickly deploy completely integrated, pre-assembled MBR systems in weeks.
Texas Officer Fired After Shooting Hamburger-Eating Teenager The Washington Post
Texas Officer Fired After Shooting Hamburger-Eating Teenager – The Washington Post https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/texas-officer-fired-after-shooting-hamburger-eating-teenager-the-washington-post/
A Texas police officer who shot and wounded a teenager who had been sitting in his car eating a hamburger has been fired, police said.
San Antonio Officer James Brennand was fired after shooting Erik Cantu, 17, on Oct. 2 in a fast food restaurant parking lot, police training commander Alyssa Campos said in a video statement released Wednesday.
Brennand had responded to an unrelated disturbance at the fast-food restaurant when he saw the Cantu inside the car, which had evaded him a day earlier, Campos said.
A Texas prosecutor said in a statement Friday that he has not seen enough evidence to file charges against the teenager.
“While Sunday’s shooting of an unarmed teenager by a then-San Antonio Police officer remains under investigation, the facts and evidence we have received so far led us to reject the charges against Erik Cantu for further investigation,” Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales said.
Brennand, who had been on the force for less than one year, violated his training and police procedures after approaching the car, Campos said.
“The officer abruptly opened the driver’s door and ordered the driver out of the car” before the arrival of backup officers that Brennand had requested, Campos said.
Cantu, in the officer’s body camera video, looks toward Brennand while holding a hamburger, then backs the car away, striking the officer with the open door.
Brennand then opened fire several times as the door closed and Cantu drove away.
Cantu, who was struck by gunfire, stopped nearby where he and a passenger, who was not injured, were found by police.
“There is nothing I can say in defense of that officer’s actions that night,” Police Chief William McManus told WOAI-TV. “I think what happened, initially, there was some contact made, but that did not justify the shooting.”
Cantu was hospitalized in stable condition and initially charged with evading police and aggravated assault.
Gonzales, the district attorney, said no decision had been made on whether to pursue charges against Brennand, pending the outcome of a police investigation into the shooting.
“As we do with all officer-involved shootings that result in death or serious injury, we will submit the case to a Grand Jury for their consideration. Until that happens, we can make no further comment on this matter,” Gonzales said.
Police and an attorney for Cantu did not immediately return phone calls for comment on Friday.
Tourists Ride Holiday High With Short Trips Chinadaily.com.cn China Daily
Tourists Ride Holiday High With Short Trips – Chinadaily.com.cn – China Daily https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/tourists-ride-holiday-high-with-short-trips-chinadaily-com-cn-china-daily/
Visitors walk through an attraction in a park in Zaozhuang, Shandong province, on Oct 8, 2022. [PhOTO by HONG XIAODONG/FOR CHINA DAILY]
More travelers turn to self-driving, camping options for major vacation
Travelers across China are showing a growing preference for camping and self-driving tours on the back of the increasing popularity of short-distance trips, with many of those made over the just-concluded National Day holiday, according to the latest industry figures.
About 65 percent of Trip.com users traveled to places near their work areas and homes during the seven-day holiday — from Oct 1 to Friday — with expenditures on related tours rising by 30 percent from the same period last year, according to figures from the online travel group.
Camping remained popular among travelers during the holiday, with orders for camping-related tour packages via its platform growing tenfold year-on-year, according to the group.
Nearly 80 percent of the camping tour destinations were near users’ workplaces or homes, while about 15 percent involved travel to neighboring cities or suburban areas, the group said. Average expenditure on camping was about 650 yuan ($91.30), up 30 percent from spending during the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday in September, it said.
Travelers aged 30 to 39 favored camping tours organized via its platform, especially families with children. About 83 percent of these travelers stayed overnight at campsites and enjoyed leisure activities such as fruit picking offered by local farms, according to the group.
Chen Yi, 31, spent two days and one night at a farm in suburban Beijing with her family this National Day holiday. She said it was a relaxing trip.
“We were concerned about COVID-19 control measures that may cause some uncertainty in work-related matters after the holiday, so we decided to spend the break in Beijing rather than visit other places,” she said. “It was my husband’s idea to go camping. He is a fan of such niche activities.”
Chen said that their camping site was within farmland about two hours’ drive from downtown. “The air is quite fresh there and the owner of the farmland is also friendly and generous. We made quite good memories there.”
Deng Ning, vice-dean of the School of Tourism Sciences at Beijing International Studies University, said that people showed more preference for short-distance tours during the seven-day break mainly in consideration of any sporadic COVID-19 outbreak. They also favored self-driving tours and some niche destinations as their main concern was to avoid crowds.
A number of destinations became top draws during the recent national holiday, such as Nan’ao Island in Shantou, Guangdong province and Meizhou Island in Putian, Fujian province, attracting travelers with breathtaking coastal views, figures from travel agencies showed.
Prices of hotel accommodation also rose briskly over the recent vacation period, with expenditure on hotels for short-distance tours increasing 10 percent over the break, according to Trip.com figures.
Wu Ruoshan, a visiting researcher at the Tourism Research Center of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that travelers are changing their travel options and consumption preferences, focusing more on safety amid epidemic control work.
It is necessary for travel agencies and companies to be aware of travelers’ safety considerations on top of their tourism offerings, he said.
Newsom To Call Special Legislative Session Over Gas Prices 69News WFMZ-TV
Newsom To Call Special Legislative Session Over Gas Prices – 69News WFMZ-TV https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/newsom-to-call-special-legislative-session-over-gas-prices-69news-wfmz-tv/
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom said Friday he will call a special session of the state Legislature in December to pass a new tax on oil companies as punishment for what he calls “rank price gouging.”
Newsom told reporters on Friday that the special session will begin Dec. 5 after all the votes have been counted from the November elections and newly elected lawmakers are sworn in.
Gas prices soared across the nation this year because of high inflation, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and ongoing disruptions in the global supply chain. But while gas prices have recovered somewhat nationwide, they have continued to spike in California, hitting an average of $6.39 per gallon on Friday — $2.58 higher than the national average.
“This is just rank price gouging,” Newsom told reporters on Friday. “It’s time to get serious. I’m sick of this.”
Kevin Slagle, vice president for the Western States Petroleum Association, said “a better use of the special session would be to take a hard look at decades of California energy policy and what they mean to consumers and our economy.”
“If this was anything other than a political stunt, the Governor wouldn’t wait two months and would call the special session now, before the election,” Slagle said. “This industry is ready right now to work on real solutions to energy costs and reliability if that is what the Governor is truly interested in.”
Several states chose to suspend their gas taxes during the price surge, including Maryland, New York and Georgia. Newsom and his fellow Democrats that control the state Legislature refused to do that, opting instead to send $9.5 billion in rebates to taxpayers — which began showing up in bank accounts this week.
It’s unclear how the tax Newsom is proposing would work. Newsom said he is still working out the details with legislative leaders, but on Friday said he wants the money to be “returned to taxpayers,” possibly by using money from the tax to pay for more rebates.
“We’re going to get the money back that (oil companies) have been gouging and taking back from hard working Californians,” Newsom said. “There are many different ways of doing this.”
The state Legislature briefly considered a proposal earlier this year that would have imposed a “windfall profits tax” on oil companies’ gross receipts when the price of a gallon of gasoline was “abnormally high compared to the price of a barrel of oil.”
That proposal would have required state regulators to determine the tax rate, making sure it recovered any oil companies’ profit margins that exceeded 30 cents per gallon. The money from the tax would then have been returned to taxpayers via rebates.
Newsom did not comment on that proposal when it was introduced in March, and lawmakers quickly shelved it. It could, however, act as a blueprint for the new proposal being negotiated between Newsom and legislative leaders.
The Legislature’s top two leaders — Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon — said in a joint statement that lawmakers “will continue to examine all other options to help consumers.”
“A solution that takes excessive profits out of the hands of oil corporations and puts money back into the hands of consumers deserves strong consideration by the Legislature,” they said. “We look forward to examining the Governor’s detailed proposal when we receive it.”
California Republicans — who do not control enough seats to influence policy decisions in the Legislature — have called the tax “foolhardy.”
“Who here thinks that another tax is going to bring down your gas prices? Is going to bring down any costs in this state? It’s not going to happen,” Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher told reporters on Wednesday.
The California Legislature usually meets between January and August, where they consider bills on a variety of topics. The governor has the power to call a special legislative session at any time by issuing a proclamation. When convened in a special session, lawmakers can only consider the issues mentioned in that proclamation.
The last time a California governor called a special legislative session was in 2015 when then-Gov. Jerry Brown asked lawmakers to pass a bill to pay for repairs to state roads and highways. Lawmakers ultimately took no action.
The California Energy Commission wrote a Sept. 30 letter to five oil refiners demanding an explanation for why gas prices jumped dramatically and why inventory fell during refinery maintenance that was planned in advance.
Gas prices jumped 84 cents over a 10-day period, an unprecedented spike, the commission wrote. It noted the price increase came as oil prices fell.
The oil industry had “not provided an adequate and transparent explanation for this price spike, which is causing real economic hardship to millions of Californians,” the commission wrote.
The companies who received the letter were Chevron, Marathon Petroleum, PBF Energy, Phillips 66 and Valero.
As of Friday, only PBF Energy had responded. Paul Davis, the company’s senior vice president, said antitrust law barred it from responding to the questions in detail. But he broadly said state policies designed to limit oil production in California are squeezing the industry.
“It is important that there be a full understanding of what the implications will be in the short-, medium- and long-term on the availability of gasoline supplies for consumers and businesses,” Davis wrote.
PBF does not operate any gas stations in California.
Associated Press reporter Kathleen Ronayne contributed reporting.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Court Rejects Request To Rehear Gender Dysphoria Case National Post
Court Rejects Request To Rehear Gender Dysphoria Case – National Post https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/court-rejects-request-to-rehear-gender-dysphoria-case-national-post/
Author of the article:
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — A federal appeals court on Friday denied a request to rehear a case that found that gender dysphoria is a condition covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
In August, a three-judge panel of the Richmond-based 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals became the first federal appellate court in the country to find that the landmark federal law protects people with gender dysphoria, a condition that causes anguish and other symptoms as a result of a disparity between a person’s gender identity and their assigned sex at birth.
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The decision came in the case of Kesha Williams, a transgender woman who sued the Fairfax County sheriff in Virginia for housing her in a jail with men under a policy that inmates must be classified according to their genitals.
In her lawsuit, Williams said that she was harassed and that her prescribed hormone medication was repeatedly delayed or skipped, violating the Americans with Disabilities Act.
A federal judge granted a motion by the sheriff’s office to dismiss the lawsuit, but the 4th Circuit panel reversed that ruling, finding there is a distinction between gender identity disorder and gender dysphoria.
The modern diagnosis of gender dysphoria “affirms that a transgender person’s medical needs are just as deserving of treatment and protection as anyone else’s,” Judge Diana Gribbon Motz wrote in the opinion.
On Friday, the 4th Circuit rejected a request from the sheriff’s office for the full court of 15 judges to rehear the case.
The sheriff’s office did not immediately respond to a phone message seeking comment, and attorneys for the sheriff’s office did not respond to an email.
For more health news and content around diseases, conditions, wellness, healthy living, drugs, treatments and more, head to Healthing.ca – a member of the Postmedia Network.
Sports Highlights: Atlantis Charter Soccer Comes Alive In Second Half Fall River Herald News
Sports Highlights: Atlantis Charter Soccer Comes Alive In Second Half – Fall River Herald News https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/sports-highlights-atlantis-charter-soccer-comes-alive-in-second-half-fall-river-herald-news/
Herald News Staff | The Herald News
The fall sports season is underway in the Fall River area.
Take a look at the highlights from Friday’s local high school action:
Boys soccer: Atlantis Charter at South Shore Christian
SCORE: Atlantis Charter 2, South Shore Christian Academy 0
LOCATION: South Shore Christian
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 5-3-1
HIGHLIGHTS: Goals were by André Coelho-Filho and assists were by Bradley Flores and Victor Oro. “It was good to get back in the win column. We had a slow start but came to life in the second half. André made the right decisions at the right time and it paid off,” said coach Nathan Mello.
NEXT UP: Tuesday, Oct. 11, at Bishop Connolly at 3:30 p.m.
Boys soccer: Somerset Berkley vs. Durfee
SCORE: Somerset Berkley 4, Durfee 1
LOCATION: Somerset Berkley
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 5-3-2 (4-2-2)
HIGHLIGHTS: Somerset Berkley’s goals were scored by: 3 by Cam Freitas with assists on 2 from Max Jeronimo and 1 from Ben Miller; 1 by Nicolas Scanlon. Durfee’s goal was scored by Lens Bourisquot. Evan Furtado made 2 saves for Somerset Berkley and Durfee’s Xavier Inacio made 4 saves.
NEXT UP: Old Rochester Regional on Wednesday, Oct. 12.
Girls soccer: Atlantis Charter vs. Tri-County
SCORE: Atlantis Charter 0, Tri-County 0
LOCATION: Atlantis Charter School
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 0-1-1
HIGHLIGHTS: “In the first glimpse of next year’s girls soccer team at ACS, the JV team held TriCounty to a 0-0 draw. Many of the girls have had cameo roles during varsity matches, and Eloa DeSouza, Madyson Branco and Sophia Ferreira got an extended run out in a hard fought game against an older, more experienced side. Several of these players have as much as 5 more years at ACS, boding a bright future for this fledgling team,” said coach Vania Mendonca.
NEXT UP: At home against Bishop Connolly on Tuesday, Oct. 11, at 3:30 p.m.
Field hockey: Durfee vs. Brockton
SCORE: Durfee 9, Brockton 0
LOCATION: Durfee
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 9-1-2 (5-0 in conference)
HIGHLIGHTS: Toni Freitas had 4 goals and 1 assist; Shakira Cadet had 3 goals; Josie Caine had 1 goal; and Kacey Curran had 1 goal. Emily Curran added an assist. Kailey Hutchison played the first half in net, and Damani Hall Little ended the game for the second half. “Great ball control and team effort!” said coach Nicole Henrique.
NEXT UP: At Dartmouth on Wednesday, Oct. 12.
Field hockey: Westport vs. Fairhaven
SCORE: Westport 5, Fairhaven 0
LOCATION: Westport
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 4-4-1
HIGHLIGHTS: “Full team effort in today’s win. Defense did a great job keeping the ball out of the circle,” said coach Jacquelyn Legendre. Goals were from Bella Babb, Avery Avila, Molly Bazinet, and two from 7th-grader Madeleine Melnyk. Hannah Abrams had 3 saves in the shutout.
NEXT UP: At home vs. West Bridgewater.
Girls volleyball: Diman vs. Bristol-Plymouth
SCORE: Diman 3, B-P 0 (25-22, 25-7, 27-25)
LOCATION: Diman
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 8-1 (league: 4-0)
HIGHLIGHTS: Lindsey Moniz had 7 aces, 4 kills, and 10 digs; Sarah Moniz had 6 aces, 4 kills, and 4 digs; Hannah Martin had 4 aces, 7 digs, and 12 assists; Avery Rounds had 4 aces and 9 digs; Madison Pereira had 2 kills; Kacie Lynch had 2 kills and 4 digs; and Vitoria DeOliveira had 10 digs.
NEXT UP: At Bridgewater-Raynham on Monday, Oct. 10 at 6 p.m.
Girls volleyball: Westport vs. Avon
SCORE: Westport 3, Avon 0
LOCATION: Westport
DATE: Oct. 7
RECORD: 7-4 (4-1 in conference)
HIGHLIGHTS: Kyleigh Finglas hit the 500 kills mark on Friday. She actually had 18 kills on Friday, which puts her at 506. She also had 9 service points, and 5 aces. Taylor Perry had 26 assists, 7 service points, and 3 aces, and a kill. Zoey Sylvain had 10 service points, 2 aces, and 4 kills.
NEXT UP: At home vs. Wareham on Saturday, Oct. 8.
Herald News and Taunton Daily Gazette sports editor Steven Sanchez can be reached at ssanchez@heraldnews.com. You can follow him on Twitter at @Chezsports. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Herald News today.
The Future: Reconceptualizing Skilling By Metaverse The Coin Republic
The Future: Reconceptualizing Skilling By Metaverse – The Coin Republic https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/the-future-reconceptualizing-skilling-by-metaverse-the-coin-republic/
Home » The Future: Reconceptualizing skilling by Metaverse
In the last few years, the ecosystem led by technology having social media, VC, 3D, and AR/VR has allowed digital transformations for Educationists, Businesses, and Individuals.
The word “Metaverse” was minted to ease the digital transformation in every part of our lives.
According to Gartner, “Metaverse” is a combined digital shared space made by linking digitally advanced physical and digital reality. It is consistent, giving advanced mesmeric experiences, along with being device-free and approachable by any means of a device, from tablets to head-mounted displays. Metaverse consists of many building blocks like – Augmented reality, virtual reality, Mixed reality, etc.
The Metaverse provides various possibilities to reconceptualize skilling in India. Weak infrastructure has often been an obstacle to the imposition of skilling programs in India. A digital space gives a quick fix with severe potential to mount. The adoption of technology and particularly mixing the power of augmented reality, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence – Metaverse has permitted several EdTech firms to transfer from traditional learning to leveraging technology for conventional education, upskilling, reskilling, or new skilling.
It is said that India will have about 1 billion smartphone users by the year 2026, and the metaverse skilling transformation will go side by side with this growth. Metaverse can be exceptionally useful to give life-like learning experiences developing parts fundamental to the Metaverse and adding Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Metaverse: a perfect solution for L&D teams.
The Metaverse provides a unique chance for gig workers to change them by choosing the specific skill set they are interested in. Furthermore, the Metaverse proposes on-the-go skilling choices that gig workers need. Studies have demonstrated the existing and coming generation doubtlessly prefer working from home, and the Metaverse is the perfect solution for L&D teams.
Topics like Virtual and Augmented reality are familiar in the gaming industry. But, these topics have also become general in the skilling industry.
L&D teams are widely utilizing Game-Based Learning to give enveloping and appealing experiences to learners, and AR and VR have become the essence. Knowledge memorization by practical learning becomes a truth by the Metaverse. Such as, learners can now see at a 3D map of a machine and acknowledge the topics that are enforced to the machines in reality.
The future of learning is possibly to appear dissimilar to what the industry anticipated two years ago. At the same time, we are unclear about its future, but the expectation of the Metaverse is thrilling.
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40 Gag Gifts – National Today https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/40-gag-gifts-national-today/
Gag gifts are some of the most fun purchases to make when you’re at a loss as to what would be appropriate for someone on your holiday shopping list. While there are plenty of practical and funny gifts out there (like WineRack), sometimes you just need to go over the top with the best gag gift ideas.
Check out this list of weird and wacky products that are sure to put a smile on your face. From old classic gag gifts to the weirdest things you never knew existed, we’ve got something perfect for anyone in your life, not just your brother.
Our Top 3 Picks
Best
The Banana Bluetooth Phone
Take your banana humor to the next level.
Buy it!
Also Great
Fish-Flops Slippers
These fish flops will have you shouting “REELIT!”
Buy it!
Good on a Budget
Old School But Still Cool Snake in the Can
The classic prank that never gets old.
Buy it!
Gag Gifts for Men
Toilet Motion Sensor Night Light
If your loved one is a frequent bathroom-goer at night, then equip them with this motion-activated light for their trips to the bathroom. This allows them to make their way to the throne without turning on bright overhead lights.
Get it on Amazon
Hilarious “Deez-nuts” LOL candle
Have jokesters in your life? This candle is for them. Light up the room, and a few laughs, with these hilarious candles. They come in 2 different scents with 40 hours burning time. Deez Nutz candle by The Candle Daddy, makes a great gift for anyone who has a sense of humor.
Get it on Amazon
Senior Moment’s Survival Chain
Bring a smile to your face, and start your party with a humorous touch. This old-age survival chain is adorned with plastic beaded chain that’s adorned with funny gadgets, letting them know they’re never too old to be young. Whether it’s a retirement gift or “over the hill” birthday party favor, this item will bring laughs while reminding your guests that life goes on and you don’t become old by age.
Get it on Amazon
Waving Inflatable Wacky Tube (18 inch)
Get a laugh with this tiny Wacky Waving Inflatable Tube Guy. Make your office a little more hilarious with this Wacky Waving Inflatable Tube Guy. A mini version of the classic yellow inflatable guy, it will provide laughs in any home or office. Perfect for your desk, this novelty gift is a humorous way to make people smile.
Get it on Amazon
Affirmators!! 50 Helpy-Ness Affirmation Collection
We all want to do our best and put our best foot forward at work. These cards are a great way to step out of the office, even if they’re only a few steps away. Each card has a positive message that will boost your spirit and encourage you to keep working towards your goals.
Get it on Amazon
For Men Dr. Squatch Bar Soap Collection
With a 5-pack of soaps for men, you’ll be able to take your shower game to a whole new level. The scents are bold and different from anything else out there. Plus, they leave your skin feeling awesome! Also makes a great gift for the manliest man in your life.
Get it on Amazon
‘Forking Good”, The Unofficial Cookbook
Whether you’re a Michael and Janet stan, or still trying to get over the loss of The Good Place, this cookbook will fill that pineapple-sized hole in your heart by presenting recipes for every food item and activity that appeared on the show. This unofficial cookbook salutes both this extraordinary show, and Eleanor’s never-ending hunger for more food.
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The Strongest “Death Wish Coffee. Co” Intense Coffee
Be Bold. Be Intense. Be Powerful. We’re not going to sugarcoat it . An amazon Top seller coffee product, Death Wish coffee. All of the beans are freshly roasted with no preservatives or additives. This medium roast is as close as you’ll get to a French roast, with rich and full flavor – perfect for any time of day. If you can’t get enough, we promise that your first bag will be unforgettable
Get it on Amazon
Gag Gifts for Women
Purr-Fect Cat Jogger Pants
PURRFECT – This pair of jogger pants are so soft you’ll never want to take them off. With a comfortable elastic waistband and drawstring, they make the perfect gift for anyone with an affinity for cats of all shapes and sizes.
Get it on Amazon
Le Tiny Violin
The world’s tiniest violin! Playing it won’t make you feel any better, but at least you don’t have to hear their complaints. This tiny violin is perfect for the person in your life who is constantly complaining. It may not lift their spirits, but it’s small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and fun to play with.
Get it on Amazon
Extra Comfy Le Baguette Slippers
Slippers are a very popular home garment, but sometimes we all get bored of them. It is the time when you need to add some humor and funniness in your life. Here comes the Funny Slippers which will not only make you feel good, but also make others around you happy. Now you can show off your fancy baguette loaves everywhere with these funny yet comfy slippers.
Get it on Amazon
Iconic Funny Fox Coffee Mug
Do you love fox? We all love mugs, they’re the perfect thing to have during your daily morning cereals or hot cup of coffee. This Fox Coffee mug is a design that is perfect for any animal lover! It will make you feel happy and inspired every time you pour in a hot drink!!
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Relatable Sentiment Taco Dish Towel
A relaxing and enjoyable way to keep your kitchen sink a little less messy, this dish towel is the perfect gift for anyone who loves a good joke. Whether you’re a taco lover, or just appreciate the saying, this dish towel is sure to bring a smile to your face every time you use it.
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Kitten Lover Cat Tarot
Cats have seen worlds that are older than our oldest stories, and beyond those wonders they have a sense of humor. Cat Tarot combines the wisdom of these animals with imagery and symbols from their mythology to create a deck that will help you read your own destiny and understand the people around you. Whether you’re just starting out or feel like you’re ready for something special, you’ll want this deck in your collection!
Get it on Amazon
Pink Strawberry Cute Night Light
This is a cute and lovely silicone strawberry! It will brighten up any place, and make your room become more warm and romantic. The soft light of the strawberry night lamp is so sweet, you don’t want to fall asleep. The touch switch design makes it convenient to use. When the light is on it will work 3 hours continuously and then automatically be in sleep mode until next use.
Get it on Amazon
Iconic Schitt’s Creek Cuff Bracelet
Featuring Alexis’ most iconic line, this Schitt’s Creek bangle is for the diehard fans of the show. Fans that can look at this piece and know exactly why it’s so funny will find it to be absolutely hysterical, while people who have never seen the show might just think of it as an optimistic statement . . . but either way, they’ll still know that you’re watching a pretty damn good TV show.
Get it on Amazon
Gag Gifts for Siblings
3D Printed Hot Belly Waist Bag
Have you ever seen a Waist bag like this? Surprise your friends and family why gifting them this 3D Belly waist bag. This super hot waist bag changes the definition of a beer belly because a can of beer can fit inside it. Unlike the classic belt bags, this hot belly waist bag has a high-quality zipper and a compartment that can hold all important gadgets. Plus, this waist bag is super comfy too!
Get it on Amazon
Unisex Rechargeable LED Headlamp Beanie Hat
Gift it to your sibling. Light up a life with this unisex rechargeable LED beanie hat. Adjustable brightness settings let you choose between 3 levels of power to suit your needs. The soft, warm polyester fabric hat is machine washable and warm enough to wear indoors or out. Plus, the lightweight battery pack gives you hours of hands-free light while protecting your eyes from glare.
Get it on Amazon
Microfiber Home-Friendly Mop Slipper by Terry Towel
Microfibre cleaning mop slippers are perfect for cleaning. Even though you might find yourself doing some cleaning dancing around the house, these slippers help pick up dust and leaves on the floor. This will keep your floor clean and won’t cause any damage to it. The slippers are made from high-quality microfiber that is soft and easy to clean with soap, but also has a strong material which makes them durable.
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Tote Bag Wine Dispenser
This wine bag is suitable for all age wine lovers. It is an ideal gift for your friends and a perfect companion to your outdoor activities. The canvas surface fabric makes this bag easy to clean and keep colorful; while the sturdy handle helps you carry it around. The internal spacious space and extra pocket facilitate you to store beach towels, purses and so on. The sleek look with a covert pocket will be hand-poured for your favorite wine bottle.
Get it on Amazon
Wearable Soft Sherpa ‘Mermaid Tail’ Blanket by Blankie Tails
Blankie Tails mermaid tail blanket is made with premium quality fabric and will last for years to come. This cute colorful, sparkly Blankie Tail will keep you warm and snuggly while adding a touch of magic to any mermaid or unicorn loving child’s nighttime routine. The Blankie Tails Mermaid Tail Blanket is perfect as a gift, playtime blanket, and snuggle sleep blanket.
Get it on Amazon
F.L. FLower’s ‘50 Shades of Chicken’ Book
Your recipient will be instantly addicted to Fifty Shades of Chicken: A Parody in a Cookbook with these delicious recipes that feature juicy double-fried chicken, baked chicken tenders, or perfectly-roasted chicken breasts.With 50 recipes in this sexy cookbook, you’ll never run out of ideas to keep your friends, family and food wary.
Get it on Amazon
Hilarious Spider Prank Box by FunFamz
Are you looking for a gift for your friends and family? Get revenge on your friends and family, especially on those annoying relatives. Use this box as a...
Crypto Exchange Huobi Global To Be Acquired By About Capital CoinDesk
Crypto Exchange Huobi Global To Be Acquired By About Capital – CoinDesk https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/crypto-exchange-huobi-global-to-be-acquired-by-about-capital-coindesk/
Danny is CoinDesk’s deputy business editor. He owns BTC, ETH and SOL.
Crypto exchange Huobi Global, one of the biggest token trading outposts in the Asia markets, said late Friday that it has agreed to be purchased by Hong Kong-based investment company About Capital Management’s M&A fund.
In a blog post, Huobi Global, a top-10 exchange by trading volume, said About will “control the majority stake” of Huobi once the deal closes; it said the ownership transfer will have no impact on trading operations.
The news comes after months of speculation and reports that founder Leon Li was seeking a buyer for his nearly 60% stake in Huobi, and was asking for at least $1 billion. The terms of the deal with About Capital were not disclosed.
Under new ownership, the exchange is plotting an international expansion and will receive an “injection of sufficient capital in margin and risk provision fund,” the blog post said.
In a statement, Li, who founded Huobi in China in 2013, said the exchange’s late 2021 departure from the Chinese mainland kicked off a globalization push that will now accelerate under About Capital.
Huobi’s native token HT rose sharply on the news.
UPDATE (OCT 8, 23:32 UTC): Adds information and context throughout.
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Danny is CoinDesk’s deputy business editor. He owns BTC, ETH and SOL.
Danny is CoinDesk’s deputy business editor. He owns BTC, ETH and SOL.
U.S. Oil & Gas Rig Count Falls For First Time In Four Weeks Baker Hughes Reuters
U.S. Oil & Gas Rig Count Falls For First Time In Four Weeks – Baker Hughes – Reuters https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/u-s-oil-gas-rig-count-falls-for-first-time-in-four-weeks-baker-hughes-reuters/
Oct 7 (Reuters) – U.S. energy firms this week cut the number of oil and natural gas rigs operating for the first time in four weeks despite crude prices soaring to five-week highs after OPEC+’s decision to cut production.
The U.S. oil and gas rig count, an early indicator of future output, fell by three to 762 in the week to Oct. 7, the lowest since early September, energy services firm Baker Hughes Co (BKR.O) said in its closely followed report on Friday. , ,
Oil rigs fell two to 602 this week, while gas rigs dropped one to 158.
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Oil prices on Friday were trading at five-week highs after an OPEC+ decision this week to make its largest supply cut since 2020.
Energy executives, however, told Reuters that the big OPEC+ cut will not spur new U.S. oil and gas production due to constraints.
U.S. shale production, which recovered quickly after the 2016 price crash, now has more handicaps. Limited equipment and workers, a lack of capital, and pressure from investors to boost returns are dampening output.
In the third quarter, drillers added rigs for an eighth quarter in a row but the addition of 12 rigs was the smallest increase since September 2020.
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Reporting by Scott DiSavino Editing by Marguerita Choy
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.
Scott Disavino
Thomson Reuters
Covers the North American power and natural gas markets.
Uvalde Suspends Its Entire School Police Force The New York Times
Uvalde Suspends Its Entire School Police Force – The New York Times https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/uvalde-suspends-its-entire-school-police-force-the-new-york-times/
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Joining Forces To Promote Financial Literacy Texas Border Business
Joining Forces To Promote Financial Literacy – Texas Border Business https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/joining-forces-to-promote-financial-literacy-texas-border-business/
Lone Star National Bank is proud to announce that it will continue to work in partnership with the Starr County Industrial Foundation to promote financial literacy to our Starr County residents. Image for illustration purposes.
– Advertisement –
Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas – Lone Star National Bank is proud to announce that it will continue to work in partnership with the Starr County Industrial Foundation to promote financial literacy to our Starr County residents. This partnership is geared towards providing financial education resources to South Texas College students who are obtaining training and education in careers that employ them as contractors/sole-proprietors. Lone Star National Bank recognizes the struggles of small business owners and entrepreneurs and is fully invested on ensuring that the Valley’s small business owners and entrepreneurs have the resources they need to succeed. This partnership will provide trainings and workshops to STC’s CDL, Welding, Electrical and Nursing program among others. More details on dates and registration to be released in the coming weeks.
Established in 1983, Lone Star National Bank has provided banking services to communities in South Texas for over 39 years. Lone Star National Bank, the largest Hispanic owned independent community bank in the country, with over 3 billion in total assets and thirty five (35) banking centers throughout Starr, Hidalgo, Cameron and Bexar Counties. The Corporate Office is located at 520 E. Nolana Ave., McAllen, Texas.
Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Splits Into Adults-Only And Family Sections TravelPulse
Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Splits Into Adults-Only And Family Sections – TravelPulse https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/margaritaville-island-reserve-cap-cana-splits-into-adults-only-and-family-sections-travelpulse/
The Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana today announced that, effective immediately, its existing all-inclusive resort property will be divided into two distinct sections, in order to better enable guests to select their ideal vacation setting.
Aimed at guests who prefer the quiet and sophistication of an adults-only setting, the resort’s ‘Hammock’ section, reserved exclusively for grownups, will offer 13 different luxury accommodations categories to choose from, along with access to adult-exclusive venues.
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Meanwhile, the family-friendly “Wave” section will offer a selection of seven different luxury room types that can accommodate up to four guests, complete with family-oriented amenities, all-inclusive access to the Parakeet Kids Club, a dedicated family pool, a splash pad for the little ones and more.
In celebration of this exciting transition, Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana is launching the following special, limited-time offers:
— For Adults: Guests can enjoy 50 percent off their Hammock-section stay when they book between October 7 and October 16, 2022, for travel anytime between November 1, 2022, and January 2, 2024.
— For Families: Guests can enjoy 50 percent off their Wave-section stay, and kids can stay for free when sharing accommodations with two adults. To take advantage of this offer, families will likewise need to book their all-inclusive vacation between October 7 and October 16, 2022, for travel anytime between November 1, 2022, and January 2, 2024.
The property—which is relatively new, having opened only last November—is located in the private community of Cap Cana within the broader destination of Punta Cana, a gorgeous resort town occupying the Dominican Republic’s easternmost tip, which abuts the Caribbean Sea on one side and the tropical Atlantic on the other.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, be sure to subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter here.
Local Business: Delhi Store Features Art Supplies Classes Oneonta Daily Star
Local Business: Delhi Store Features Art Supplies, Classes – Oneonta Daily Star https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/local-business-delhi-store-features-art-supplies-classes-oneonta-daily-star/
Partners Kelli Cain and Brian Crabtree are adding some color to downtown Delhi.
The pair launched Luck Dragon, an art supply store and workshop space at 100 Main St., in late August.
Cain, 43, said Luck Dragon grew from their shared artistic backgrounds.
“We’ve been in Delhi for 14 years; we bought a farm in Delhi and started there, and the business used to be on the farm in a barn,” she said. She said they make electronic music instruments for computer music, but wanted to do more. “We’ve done that for a long time, but Brian and I met in art school, where we studied music and experimental stop-motion animation (at) the California Institute of the Arts.
“Since then, we’ve taken on many different practices and projects … and we both still make music and I do ceramics, so we’ve been in the arts for a while,” Cain continued. “We purchased this building and renovated it for four years. When Delhi Paint & Paper retired in March, we decided … we would move down into the space and move the synthesizer business, (Monome), but we always wanted a teaching, classroom space; just something to offer the community. Since we know about art supplies and art projects, we just picked some of our passions and decided to concentrate on that and have a store. Artware (in Oneonta) closed, and that left a huge gap, and we missed it. The town needs a retail space that people can enter — anyone can enter — and feel good.”
Though specific Cain said, Luck Dragon’s inventory is varied.
“We thought seeing art supplies and craft supplies and paint colors and books about color in person was … meaningful and worthwhile,” she said. “We’re really passionate about color, a great pen, really nice fabric. We carry a lot of really beautiful fabric for making clothes. We wanted to explore more and share with the community in a way that many people could benefit.
“We carry a lot of mending items … and we have classes for that,” Cain continued, speaking of the popularity of Sashiko threads. “Our Mora Knil carving knives for whittling have become quite popular. The whole project is really based on, ‘let’s all have ways to use our hands and explore space and time (without) staring at a screen. We also carry the standards: Holbein oil paints, Holbein acrylics and watercolors and a lot of different kinds of paper. We have a wide selection of our favorite books about color, which is pretty exciting, and people are gravitating toward, and (inventory) will expand as we carry different classes.”
Upcoming workshops include soldering, sewing, natural dying, block-printing, spoon carving, garden design, still life drawing and more.
Cain said locals and visitors are exploring their creative sides.
“Delhi has a little bit of tourism still happening because of the farmers’ market, so I’d say (patronage) is all over the place,” she said. “It’s very much Delhi and people from outside of Delhi. It’s a lot of locals, which is nice, and we’re hoping to draw more artists. The closest places are Arlene’s (Artist Materials) in Albany and Catskill Art Supply in Kingston, so we’d like to get more artists to buy their paint here.
“There’s so many artists (locally),” Cain continued. “I’ve been shocked at how many people were at home working on things — painting or sewing or making clothes. It’s been really inspiring, and Delhi is a very creative community. I continue to be astounded.”
Locals, Cain said, are especially happy to see the space revived.
“I think people are really enthusiastic about the renovation,” she said. “It’s a very special building. The renovation feels really good in the space, and the workshop is really lovely. It’s a good space to teach classes and learn things; it’s very open and very inviting, and people have been very generous and kind with their words, so we’ve been really lucky in that way.”
Cain said she and Crabtree hope to broaden Luck Dragon’s offerings.
“We are slowly but surely increasing our inventory, so that feels really good, and we’re adding new things all the time and considering new classes,” she said. “We’re expanding slowly; we want to be good at it before everyone comes. This is our second month in and now we feel like we’re going to start to spread the word.”
Luck Dragon is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday, with classes happening during and outside of store hours. There are also, Cain said, open “hangout nights.”
For a list of workshops and events, visit luckdragon.space.
Gray Whales Continue To Wash Up Dead And Emaciated But Causes Remain Elusive Los Angeles Times
Gray Whales Continue To Wash Up Dead And Emaciated, But Causes Remain Elusive – Los Angeles Times https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/gray-whales-continue-to-wash-up-dead-and-emaciated-but-causes-remain-elusive-los-angeles-times/
When gray whales began washing up dead in large numbers in 2019, many scientists hoped it was just a short-term phenomenon, and that the leviathans would quickly recover and rebound.
But three years later, the die-off continues for gray whales living and migrating along North America’s Pacific coast.
The population is down almost 40% from its peak in 2016. And in a report released Friday, federal scientists said the number of calves born last year was the lowest they’ve seen since they started observations in 1994.
“Given the continuing decline in numbers since [the peak in] 2016, we need to be closely monitoring the population to help understand what may be driving the trend,” said David Weller, director of the Marine Mammal and Turtle Division at NOAA’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center, in a statement. “We have observed the population changing over time, and we want to stay on top of that.”
In 2019, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration declared an “unusual mortality event” after an alarming number of gray whales began washing up along the shore from Mexico to Alaska. Then and now, the cause of the die-off remains elusive, but it appears that something has drastically altered the food web of these large, bottom-feeding cetaceans.
A gray whale pushes her calf to the surface in Laguna San Ignacio, Baja California.
(Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times)
Every year, gray whales migrate from the warm, protected lagoons of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula to the cold waters of the Arctic and sub-Arctic, where they feed for months on small, shrimp-like creatures that dwell in the mud. Then they return to Mexico, where they mate, give birth and nurse their calves.
It’s a 12,000-mile round trip migration that leads the whales past North America’s busy coast line — through shipping lanes, around fishing vessels, near crowded and intrusive tourist boats and occasionally into the maws of hungry orcas.
Gray whales have had population contractions in the past. Between 1999 and 2000, the population declined by about 25%. However, it quickly rebounded, peaking in 2015-2016.
Researchers pointed to unusually cold temperatures as a likely cause of that contraction. The frigid temperatures during that period expanded the reach of Arctic sea ice making it difficult for the whales to access their traditional prey items of amphipods and other shrimp-like creatures on the ocean floor of the Chukchi, Northern Bering and Beaufort Seas.
Two gray whales feed in the sediment not far from Pasagshak Bay off of Kodiak Island, Kodiak, Alaska.
(GEMM Lab / Oregon State University /NOAA)
This time, scientists say there are likely multiple causes, including a prolonged period of warm temperatures — a consequence of climate change — a loss of sea ice and the subsequent movement and changes in the whales’ prey items.
Many of the whales they encounter and observe appear skinny, while the bulk of whales that have stranded since 2019 — roughly 600 — have been malnourished.
However, that’s not the case for all of the whales. Some were clearly killed by ship strikes, or drowned after being entangled by fishing line and nets, or shredded and eaten killer whales. Others may have died of disease.
“There is no one thing that we can point to that explains all of the strandings,” said Deborah Fauquier, Veterinary Medical Officer in NOAA Fisheries’ Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program. “There appears to be multiple factors that we are still working to understand.”
And the mothers that are having calves seem to be healthy and adequately fed, said Aimee Lang, a fisheries biologist with NOAA’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center who leads the field teams that count the whales as they migrate.
While population counts for gray whales are typically conducted over the course of a two-year period, this year NOAA is adding a third year. Observers will watch from points along California’s central coast — at Granite Point for the southward migration and Piedras Blancas for the northward.
Lang said they work in teams of two and watch for whales as they swim by; they also send drones out to capture data regarding their size and health.
Elsewhere, whale watchers have noticed gray whales exhibiting unusual feeding behaviors, including this past summer in San Francisco Bay where the Marine Mammal Center’s Tim Markowitz and others saw gray whales lunge feeding — a behavior typical for humpbacks, in which they open their jaws wide, and lunge across the water’s surface scooping up fish and krill.
“When I heard they were doing that, I figured the stories were wrong. It must have been humpbacks, ” said Markowitz in a July interview about a bonanza of anchovy in the Bay. “But then I saw it, and I was like ‘whoa!’ Gray whales don’t do that.”
Elsewhere, gray whales have been observed feeding in areas they have historically avoided, including the shallow lagoons of the Baja Peninsula and the muddy, sandy shores of San Francisco Bay and Long Beach Harbor.
A whale-watching group gets a closeup view of a gray whale in Laguna San Ignacio.
(Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times)
Gray whales have been called the “jeeps” of the ocean, because of their opportunistic feeding habits (although they prefer foods that live on the ocean floor, they will eat krill and other critters in the water column and on the surface). They’ve also been called the “sentinels” — because if something starts happening to them, it’s likely you’ll see it elsewhere.
And that’s what has so many worried — if gray whales are having a hard time, a lot of others are, as well.
“What we hope to see in the next few years is that the abundance stabilizes and then starts to show signs of increase,” said Lang. “We will be watching closely.”
In May 2021, three gray whales washed ashore in the San Francisco Bay Area, where visitors to Muir Beach look at a decomposing gray whale.
(Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times)
The Weekend Planner With St. Joe Today | News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM
The Weekend Planner With St. Joe Today | News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM – News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/the-weekend-planner-with-st-joe-today-news-talk-sports-94-9-wsjm-news-talk-sports-94-9-wsjm/
Daniele from St. Joe Today helps us plan our weekend with a full list of great events that include the LAST Farmers Market of the season.
Plus Veronica from LECO joins us in the WOW Factor to talks about the Fit 4 Fall Frightening 5K happening on Saturday!
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 10:29 — 19.2MB) | Embed
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Limoverse Metasportech To Launch Sports Metaverse Khaleej Times
Limoverse, Metasportech To Launch Sports Metaverse – Khaleej Times https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/limoverse-metasportech-to-launch-sports-metaverse-khaleej-times/
In UAE alone, the badminton fanbase is expected to be at 1.2 million.
Published: Sat 8 Oct 2022, 12:30 AM
Metaverse continues to disrupt every consumer-centric sector in the UAE and sports is no exception as two Dubai-based firms Limoverse and Metasportech jointly pledge to boost the sport metaverse in the nation.
Limoverse — the first ever complete health and wellness metaverse — stands with the mission to empower people to take charge of their health and well-being. Founded by Dr Sajeev Nair, serial entrepreneur, peak performance coach, and biohacker, and Adityanarayan, a start up entrepreneur, Limoverse is creating a global wellness and fitness ecosystem on blockchain using Web 3 protocol.
The platform connects health/wellness/fitness practitioners and institutions from around the world with wellness and fitness seekers. Limoverse provides an opportunity for its partner organisations to create B2C and B2B businesses through smart contracts supported by a BEP20 token called LIMO.
Prajeeth, Dr Sajeev Nair, Dr Sathya Menon and George Jayesh.
In addition, Limoverse is rolling out 5 different projects through which users are rewarded for various fitness-related activities. Limoverse app is available on playstore (waiting for approvals in iOS) and already has close to 75,000 downloads. The first project under Limovesre, called HealthFi is currently open to public, where one can earn LIMO tokens by walking, jogging, and running keeping the GPS active in the mobile app. One can enter this programme by purchasing a Sneaker NFT and the first drop of 500 NFTs got sold in 28 minutes.
Limoverse is in the process of integrating more than a hundred wearable brands to measure various health parameters so as to reward people for staying healthy. On its mission to empower people to stay fit, Limoverse identified the potential of sports, which is driven by communities and fans and an ideal domain for the web 3 model, as a community is the fabric of Web 3.0
Nair said: “It’s imperative to understand the GenZ is a tech-savvy community and lifestyle as a segment has to keep up with consumer demand. We found a tremendous potential that can be unlocked through sports which have gained maximum traction post-Covid.”
Limoverse recently joined hands with Metasportech, a DMCC registered metaverse company with having an exclusive interest in building a sports metaverse. The brand headed by CEO Dr Sathya Menon plans to create the world’s first ever exclusive Sports NFT marketplace and also a Sports Metaverse. Other founding partners of Metasportech are George Jayesh who is the CTO and Prajeeth, director of operations.
Metasportech has already started the work of the first ever Badminton Metaverse, which is expected to commission by February 2023. Metasportech has signed an agreement through its group company, Beyond Boundaries LLC, a sports management company based out of Dubai, to create NFTs and also Metaverse for Badminton Asia Championships which is a BWF Super 1000 event. For the first time ever, Badminton Asia Championships will be conducted in Dubai for the next 5 years.
Menon said: “Badminton has more than 900 million followers worldwide, out of which more than 700 million are from Asian countries. In UAE alone, the badminton fanbase is expected to be at 1.2 million.
Metasportech through the Badminton metaverse is targeting this huge follower base for creating a large global badminton community. This community will be able to play badminton with legendary players in the metaverse. They can buy different NFTs and also get trained by world-class players in the badminton metaverse. Moreover, as this becomes a part of Limoverse, they will have access to various health and wellness services and products and also get rewarded by participating in various fitness activities.”
The Badminton metaverse will be launched during the same time as the Badminton Asia Championships in Dubai, which is going to be the richest badminton tournament in the world. Over 900 million people involved in badminton across the world are expected to watch the forthcoming mega championship event in Dubai.
—sandhya@khaleejtimes.com
Best Early Prime Day Wellness Sales SI Showcase Sports Illustrated
Best Early Prime Day Wellness Sales – SI Showcase – Sports Illustrated https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/best-early-prime-day-wellness-sales-si-showcase-sports-illustrated/
The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. The Sports Illustrated editorial team is not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.
Prime Day is on its way back around. Coming later this October, Amazon is back with major savings that you won’t find at your average retailer. So far, we know that Prime Day will take place over the weekend of October 11. You can expect to see plenty of big discounts on everything from laptops to sheets and beyond.
Come dive in with us as we take a look at the best early Prime Day deals, so you can get a head start on all the discounts and sales happening in this Amazon sales event.
Amazon Prime Day Fitness Deals
Best Stair Stepper: Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper Stair Stepper Exercise Equipment with Resistance Bands (9% off)
Sunny Health
This stair stepper from Sunny Health & Fitness is a sturdy and completely adjustable total body fitness device, providing upper-body resistance for your arms, back, shoulders and chest, while simultaneously providing a quick-step mini workout for your legs.
Get 9% off
Best Massage Gun: Bodi-Well Muscle Massage Gun (63% off)
Bodi-Well
For a powerful full-body massage, the Bodi-Well Muscle Massage gun provides a brushless motor performance for effective post-workout relief. At more than 63% off, you can take advantage of this portable and low-noise massage gun.
Get 63% off
Best Portable Gym Set: Gonex Portable Home Gym Workout with14 Accessories (39% off)
Gonex
Score a great deal on this all-in-one home gym equipment system from Gonex. Get everything you need to get a full-body workout at home, including an ab roller, push-up handle bar, post-landmine sleeve, three-section bar plus 30- and 50-pound resistance bands.
Get 39% off
Best Exercise Bike: Sunny Health & Fitness Endurance Indoor Cycling Bike with Magnetic Resistance (38% off)
Sunny Health
Enjoy the freedom and ease of a smooth riding experience with the Sunny Health & Fitness Endurance Indoor Cycling Bike. With magnetic resistance, Smart Bluetooth Connectivity and an optional fitness app, you get everything you need to enjoy a versatile cardio workout from the comfort of your own home.
Get 38% off
Best Resistance Bands: Allvodes Bands Resistance Band Set (27% off)
Allvodes
With Prime membership, you can take advantage of a sale on this high-quality five-piece resistance band set, which has multi-colored bands ranging from 5-50 pounds in resistance. This set also comes with a waterproof carry bag, a single door anchor, two cushion handles, two ankle straps, one figure-eight sport rope and an exercise guide.
Get 27% off
Best Kettlebell: Bowflex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell (25% off)
Bowflex
Prime members can enjoy the versatility and space-saving design of the Bowflex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell, which has enough resistance to replace six kettlebells with a range from 8-40 pounds. The ergonomic handle and weight selection dial make switching between exercises easier than ever and great for getting a flow going through your total-body workout.
Get 25% off
Best Exercise Mat: BEAUTYOVO Puzzle Exercise Mat with 12/24 Interlocking Foam Tiles (25% off)
BEAUTYOVO
No matter where you’re planning on building your home gym, you can use this BEAUTYOVO Puzzle Exercise Mat to protect your flooring and provide thick padding to place all of your workout equipment down. With a seamless look and a simply assembly, it’s easy to move if you ever need to rearrange your space.
Get 25% off
Best Treadmill: Bowflex Treadmill Series (25% off)
Bowflex
With a 22” HD touchscreen console, a motorized incline and decline design, and streaming capabilities (essentially giving you your own smart TV) the Bowflex Treadmill Series is one of the highest-quality treadmills on the market today. With 25% off the regular $3,599 price, you can save BIG on one of our favorite early Prime day deals.
Get 25% off
Best Indoor Cycling Bike: Schwinn Fitness Indoor Cycling Bike (25% off)
Schwinn
The Schwinn Indoor Cycling Bike is one of the best Amazon deals happening during Prime Day. The 40-pound flywheel, dual SPD pedals, fully-adjustable weight seat and standard LCD console found on these Schwinn bikes makes them some of the best exercise bikes on the market right now.
Get 25% off
Best Foldable Fitness Exercise Bike: Davcreator Foldable Fitness Exercise Bike (24% off)
DavCreator
Forget Black Friday and hop on this 2-in-1 exercise bike deal, which provides indoor cycling for a lower-body cardio workout and two-arm toner resistance bands for sculpting your upper muscles. This silent and sturdy bike provides ten levels of magnetic resistance, an LCD monitor and a pulse sensor that measures your heart rate to give you burned calories in real-time.
Get 24% off
Best Dumbbell Set: CAP Barbell 150 LB Dumbbell Set with Rack (23% off)
CAP Barbell
The CAP Barbell 150 LB Dumbbell Set includes six pairs of dumbbells rangng from 5-25 pounds. The compact A-frame design is durable and reliable, while the rubber hex-shaped heads on the dumbbells prevent rolling and protect your floors in case they’re dropped.
Get 23% off
Best Adjustable Dumbbell Set: PowerBlock EXP Adjustable Dumbbells (22% off)
Powerblock
Take your fitness and performance to the next level with 5-50 pounds per hand. These portable and compact adjustable dumbbells are not your everyday fitness gadgets, as they are super innovative strength training tools that provide an easy-to-use fitness solution.
Get 22% off
Best Home Gym: Bowflex Xceed Home Gym (20% off)
Bowflex
This compact home gym is one of the best early Prime Day deals, delivering more than 65 gym-quality exercises. The resistance ranges from 5-210 pounds, helping you hit every muscle on your body, from arms, core to your legs.
Get 20% off
Best Folding Treadmill: RUNOW Folding Treadmill with Incline (17% off)
RUNOW
If you enjoy at-home cardio, but you don’t have the room for large fitness equipment like your standard treadmill, you might consider the RUNOW Folding Treadmill. Even with its budget-friendly price, it comes with an 18” LED Monitor, 40 fitness programs, a shock-absorbing system and a lightweight, portable design.
Get 17% off
Best Recumbent Bike: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike (14% off)
Sunny Health
For a completely adjustable at-home cycling experience, we highly recommend checking out the Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike from Sunny Health & Fitness. The large seat and back cushion provides plenty of comfort, while the adjustable, self-leveling pedals and straps make pedaling easy, no matter your height.
Get 14% off
Best Compact Treadmill: SereneLife Folding Digital Display Electric Treadmill (14% off)
SereneLife
A quality portable treadmill can be difficult to find, though this low-profile folding electric treadmill from SereneLife offers all the perks of a regular treadmill, including digital LCD touchscreen controls and easily adjustable speeds. Plus, with a lightweight design, you can easily dismantle it and place it in your hall closet when you’re done.
Get 14% off
Best Yoga Mat: Manduka PRO Yoga Mat (12% off)
Manduka
Manduka produces some of the highest-quality yoga mats on the market. With an Amazon Prime membership, you can get the best price on this top-of-the-line, eco-friendly mat. At 71 inches long, the Manduka Pro Yoga Mat provides ultra-dense cushioning, stability, support and a chemical-free design.
Get 12% off
Best Powder Coated Kettlebells: Yes4All Powder Coated Kettlebells (11% off)
Yes4All
Made with solid cast iron for durability, a flat base for easy, upright storage and slightly textured handles for excellent grip, the Yes4All Powder-Coated Kettlebells provide all you need for a versatile workout. Get the lowest price on these kettlebells this October on Prime Day!
Get 11% off
Amazon Prime Day Sleep Deals
Best Sheets: Hotel Sheets Direct 100% Bamboo Sheets (57% of select sizes and styles)
Hotel Sheets Direct
Bamboo sheets are great for providing a cooling and relaxing sleep experience. Hotel Sheets Direct has a wide variety of colors to choose from, deep elastic pockets that fit all kinds of mattresses and moisture-wicking materials to keep you from sweating.
Get 57% off
Best Cooling Pillow: Sealy DuoChill Cooling Memory Foam Pillow (54% off select sizes and styles)
Sealy
With Sealy’s patented Perfect Chill Technology, this comfortable memory foam pillow keeps you cool throughout the night. Take advantage of this more than half-off sale and get ahold of this quality and easy-to-care-for pillow, which comes in several sizes for different beds.
Get 54% off
Best Mattress Topper: Mellow 1.5” 5-Zone Memory Foam Mattress Topper (5% off select sizes)
Mellow
Add breathable comfort to the top of your mattress with this aloe vera-infused memory foam mattress topper from Mellow. With multiple points of contact and five body zones, this unique mattress topper promotes sleep by limiting tossing and turning.
Get 5% off
Best Mattress Foundation: ZINUS 5” Metal Smart Box Spring (46% off select sizes)
Zinus
Using a durable, low-profile design that can support up to 700 pounds, the ZINUS 5” Metal Smart Box Spring is one of the highest quality box springs that you can get for an unbeatable price. This Prime Day, enjoy the strong steel interior frame and knitted polyester cover for almost half off regular price.
Get 46% off
Best Luxury Pillow: Tempur-Pedic Symphony Pillow (44% off select sizes)
TEMPUR-Pedic
Enjoy a luxury-style sleep with this 100% polyester, dual-sided memory foam pillow that blends two unique sides: one for side and back sleepers, and the other...
Lakers News: How Long Will Crypto.com Be Able To Sponsor Crypto.com Arena? Sports Illustrated
Lakers News: How Long Will Crypto.com Be Able To Sponsor Crypto.com Arena? – Sports Illustrated https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/lakers-news-how-long-will-crypto-com-be-able-to-sponsor-crypto-com-arena-sports-illustrated/
Are the Lakers’ new arena sponsors Crypto.com, a cryptocurrency exchange platform, already in trouble?
Less than a year after Crypto.com shelled out an estimated $700 million for the naming rights to the home venue for the Lakers, Clippers, Sparks and Kings in downtown Los Angeles, it appears that the company is facing a tenuous long-term future.
The locale had been named the Staples Center since its debut in 1999. Staples as a brand now is a mere shell of its former self, so a change in sponsorships did feel in retrospect like it was en route. The switch to the glitzy crypto fad felt a bit risky, which has now proved to be an accurate appraisal.
Asa Hiken of Ad Age reports that, thanks in part to some excessive spending to build brand awareness, Crypto.com reached an impressive tally of 50 million users right before the cryptocurrency market crashed and interest fizzled this past spring. Since then, the firm has “quietly downsized” or even tried to cancel several of its partnership deals. It has bailed on its previous arrangements with Angel City F.C., Twitch Rivals, and the UEFA Champions League.
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Crypto.com has reportedly lost 30-40% of its pre-crash workforce through layoffs and departures (but mostly layoffs), with sources telling Hiken that sum represents 2,000 employees.
For now, the Venue Formerly Known As Staples Center remains Crypto.com Arena. Just how long that moniker will hold is now anyone’s guess, with what has proven to be a volatile market potentially on the precipice of further collapse.
So how will Crypto.com respond to its cutbacks? Has the bubble fully burst, or is this moment merely a blip? With a lot of layoffs reportedly happening in and around its marketing department, will we be seeing more “We going to the league” ads with Lakers All-Star forward LeBron James talking to a creepy digital interpretation of his younger self?
We can only hope so, dear readers.
