Anna Garraway

Sports World Reacts To LeBron’s Big Investment News – The Spun https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/sports-world-reacts-to-lebrons-big-investment-news-the-spun/ NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MARCH 27: LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers stands on the court prior to the start of an NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on March 27, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) Sean Gardner/Getty Images It seems like everyone is getting involved in the pickleball craze these days, even LeBron James. James, along with fellow NBAers Kevin Love and Draymond Green, is part of an ownership group buying stake in a Major League Pickleball team. The location of the team has not been announced, but MLP recently expanded from 12 to 16 franchises. James is apparently a believer in the future of the sport and is willing to invest his own money in this venture.  Today’s news has definitely gotten more people talking about pickleball.  Pickleball, which combines tennis, badminton and ping pong, is still a relatively young sport, having been invented in 1957.  Major League Pickleball was founded in Texas back in 2021 and has already attracted Drew Brees, Bucks owner Marc Lasry and entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk as owners.  Now, you can add King James to that list.

Picture Of The Day: ElectroglaZ And Floating Bluetooth Speakers – Electronics Weekly https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/picture-of-the-day-electroglaz-and-floating-bluetooth-speakers-electronics-weekly/ Steve Bush, our Technology editor, has covered this one. As well as showing “how the technology can simultaneously power a set of floating Bluetooth speakers and an LCD”, there’s also the capacitive touch technology… “In addition, the system integrates Zytronic’s projected capacitive touch technology with carved features on the surface of the glass to provide a tactile feel for users to adjust the volume, pause, and so on,” said the company. Apparently, ElectroglaZ can be used to deliver power transparently through glass to any low voltage device. For example, an illuminated mirror with light bulbs plugged into its perimeter that can be individually or collectively controlled wirelessly via Zigbee. Cool! Zytronic is based in Tyne and Wear, and you can read more ElectroglaZ here.

EU Set To Ban Russian Crypto Payments After ‘Sham’ Referenda – CoinDesk https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/eu-set-to-ban-russian-crypto-payments-after-sham-referenda-coindesk/ Jack Schickler is a CoinDesk reporter focused on crypto regulations, based in Brussels, Belgium. He doesn’t own any crypto. The European Union will tighten restrictions on Russians’ crypto investments within the bloc as it seeks to respond to “sham” independence votes being held in Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine, CoinDesk has been told. A previous cap of crypto holdings of 10,000 euros ($9,600) will be scrapped, a source briefed on the sanctions package told CoinDesk, potentially meaning Russians won’t be able to hold any assets in EU crypto wallets. In April, the EU announced that it would restrict Russian payments to European crypto wallets to 10,000 euros as it sought to stop digital assets being used to bypass restrictions on large bank transfers. The new measures mean that figure could now be reduced to zero. “The sham referenda organized in the territories that Russia occupied are an illegal attempt to grab land and to change international borders by force,” European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen told reporters today, following votes held over the last five days in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Von der Leyen announced a price cap on Russian oil, a ban on exporting aviation items and electronic components and restrictions on importing Russian goods that she said would deprive the country of seven billion euros. Full details of the package have not yet been published, as they are still subject to agreement by EU member states. Sign up for Money Reimagined, our weekly newsletter exploring the transformation of value in the digital age. By signing up, you will receive emails about CoinDesk product updates, events and marketing and you agree to our terms of services and privacy policy. DISCLOSURE Please note that our privacy policy, terms of use, cookies, and do not sell my personal information has been updated . The leader in news and information on cryptocurrency, digital assets and the future of money, CoinDesk is a media outlet that strives for the highest journalistic standards and abides by a strict set of editorial policies. CoinDesk is an independent operating subsidiary of Digital Currency Group, which invests in cryptocurrencies and blockchain startups. As part of their compensation, certain CoinDesk employees, including editorial employees, may receive exposure to DCG equity in the form of stock appreciation rights, which vest over a multi-year period. CoinDesk journalists are not allowed to purchase stock outright in DCG . Jack Schickler is a CoinDesk reporter focused on crypto regulations, based in Brussels, Belgium. He doesn’t own any crypto. Jack Schickler is a CoinDesk reporter focused on crypto regulations, based in Brussels, Belgium. He doesn’t own any crypto.

Finds Cupertino Company Allowed Minors To Work Illegally As Delivery Drivers, Misclassified Workers As Independent Contractors | U.S. Department Of Labor – US Department Of Labor https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/finds-cupertino-company-allowed-minors-to-work-illegally-as-delivery-drivers-misclassified-workers-as-independent-contractors-u-s-department-of-labor-us-department-of-labor/ Locale hired 78 teens as young as 16-years-old as delivery drivers, a prohibited occupation SAN JOSE, CA – The U.S. Department of Labor has assessed $139,398, in penalties to a Silicon Valley delivery company that brings consumers specialty foods from well-known restaurants, bakeries, cafes and other California providers for hiring dozens of minor-aged workers as drivers, a prohibited occupation under federal child labor laws. The department’s Wage and Hour Division determined that Organic on the Go Inc. – operating as Locale in Cupertino – put the safety and health of 78 teens – some as young as 16-years-old – at risk when they hired them as delivery drivers in violation of Fair Labor Standards Act provisions. Investigators also found the employer misclassified the workers as independent contractors. By doing so, Locale deprived these workers of their rights, including minimum wage and overtime protections, and other benefits. “Employers who hire young workers must know and abide by federal laws that govern their employment,” said Wage and Hour District Director Susana Blanco in San Jose, California. “These obligations include ensuring minors are not employed in occupations that risk their safety, health and well-being.” Since 2015, the department’s Wage and Hour Division has seen increases in child labor violations. In fiscal year 2021, the division found 2,819 minors employed in violation of the law and assessed employers nearly $3.4 million in civil money penalties. “There are limits on what jobs young workers can perform. In most cases, child labor laws prohibit minors from driving motorized vehicles as part of their employment, and specifically when it comes to making deliveries,” Blanco added. “We urge employers to review our YouthRules! initiative materials and Seven Child Labor Best Practices for Employers web site. Employers may also contact the Wage and Hour Division with questions about keeping minor-aged workers safe.” Locale provides delivery services for nationally recognized businesses such as Harry’s Berries, Pizzana, Langer’s Deli, Momofuku, Din Tai Fung and Manresa Bread in California, and globally through its website. For more information about young workers’ rights and other employee rights, contact the agency’s toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243). Workers can call confidentially with questions regardless of where they are from, and the department can speak with callers in more than 200 languages. Learn more about the Wage and Hour Division, including a search tool to use if you think you may be owed back wages collected by the division or  file an online complaint. Download the agency’s new Timesheet App for android devices to ensure hours and pay are accurate.

Wake Tech And Shaw University Sign Technology Articulation Agreement – Wake Tech Newsroom https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/wake-tech-and-shaw-university-sign-technology-articulation-agreement-wake-tech-newsroom/ Partnerships By:   Michelle Fauver    |    Web Posted: 09/28/22 11:38am X Wake Tech and Shaw University Sign Technology Articulation Agreement Previous Next RALEIGH, N.C. (September 28, 2022) – In the spirit of academic cooperation and with the goal of offering students additional pathways for academic success, Wake Tech Community College and Shaw University signed a technology articulation agreement allowing Wake Tech course credits to transfer to Shaw toward completion of a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. The agreements include Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees in Computer Programming and Development, Data Science and Programming Support Services and Cybersecurity. Programs included in the new articulation agreement are: WTCC AAS Computer Programming and Development to Shaw BS in Computer Science – General Concentration WTCC AAS Data Science and Programming Support Services to Shaw BS in Computer Science – General Concentration WTCC AAS Computer Programming and Development to Shaw BS in Computer Science – Cyber Operations Concentration WTCC AAS Cybersecurity to Shaw BS Computer Science – Cyber Operations Concentration “We are very excited about this new partnership with Shaw University,” said Wake Tech President Dr. Scott Ralls. “This is a great opportunity for Wake Tech graduates to pursue advanced degrees. It will help them stay workforce forward – to keep moving up as they achieve their educational goals.” “This new partnership and technology articulation agreement with Wake Tech Community College is a significant milestone for both institutions and a great opportunity for students seeking to complete a four-year degree program,” said Dr. Paulette Dillard, President of Shaw University. “By combining our strengths in technology-based training, Shaw and Wake Tech are enhancing workforce development and securing the pipeline for skilled technology professionals in the future.” Wake Tech students enrolling at Shaw may transfer up to 70 credit hours toward a bachelor’s degree. All academic coursework completed at Wake Tech for which a student has earned a grade of C- or higher is fully transferable to Shaw University. More information on the Shaw University transfer agreements and other university partnerships is available here.

ViewSonic Expands Its Gaming Monitor Line With The New OMNI Series For Casual Gamers – PR Newswire https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/viewsonic-expands-its-gaming-monitor-line-with-the-new-omni-series-for-casual-gamers-pr-newswire/ , /PRNewswire/ — ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of visual solutions, introduces the ViewSonic OMNI monitor series, an all-new line of monitors designed for beginner and casual gamers. The latest ViewSonic OMNI VX2416 and VX2716 are cost-efficient options that provide powerful performance and a sharp, fluid gaming experience for work and play. ViewSonic’s OMNI VX2416 and VX2716 provide powerful performance and a fluid gaming experience “Adding to our existing professional gaming and esports series – ELITE, ViewSonic Gaming is expanding with OMNI as part of our ongoing innovation and product development efforts,” said Oscar Lin, General Manager of the Monitor Business Unit at ViewSonic. “Research[1] suggests that most players do not identify as gamers, and less than a third fit the stereotypical mold of a gamer. With our new OMNI line, we go beyond what a gamer should be and celebrate the fun and creativity of gaming.” ViewSonic Gaming is a comprehensive line-up of gaming monitors built for all types of players and gameplay. It consists of the established ELITE series and the all-new OMNI series. ELITE displays and devices are designed with minimalistic style, top-of-the-line specifications, and innovative technology. Ranging from 17″ to 34″, the OMNI displays are designed to equip every player with superior graphical performance for an excellent, silky-smooth gameplay, regardless of their gaming experience or the genre of the game. These quality displays are at an accessible price range, giving a broader audience more opportunity to game. The new OMNI VX2416 and VX2716 monitors feature a 1920 x 1080 FHD resolution, a superbly low response time of 1ms (MPRT), and AMD FreeSync technology, which delivers vivid and buttery-smooth visuals. Armed with dual integrated speakers, HDMI, and Display Port connectivity options, the series offers a complete multimedia experience with immersive stereo sound. Gamers can choose a 24″ or 27″ display to fit their desk space, making it the perfect option for both work and play. Key Features of OMNI VX2416 and VX2716 Monitors 24″ and 27″ FHD 1920 x 1080 resolution MPRT 1ms response time and 100Hz refresh rate AMD FreeSync technology Integrated 2W dual speakers HDMI and DisplayPort connections [1] Gallery of the Gamer Research by Activision Blizzard Media About ViewSonic Founded in California, ViewSonic is a leading global provider of visual solutions and conducts business in over 100 countries worldwide. As an innovator and visionary, ViewSonic is committed to providing comprehensive hardware and software solutions that include monitors, projectors, pen displays, commercial displays, All-in-One LED displays, ViewBoard interactive displays, and myViewBoard software ecosystem. With over 35 years of expertise in visual displays, ViewSonic has established a strong position for delivering innovative and reliable solutions for education, enterprise, consumer, and professional markets and helping customers “See the Difference.” To find out more about ViewSonic, please visit www.viewsonic.com. SOURCE ViewSonic

“Superstar” Ragheb Alama And “LM3ALLEM” Saad Lamjarred Join Forces In The Metaverse For The First-Ever Avatar Concert In The Arab World. Presented By MetaBoundless, And In Collaboration With Composer Michel Fadel. – PR Newswire https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/superstar-ragheb-alama-and-lm3allem-saad-lamjarred-join-forces-in-the-metaverse-for-the-first-ever-avatar-concert-in-the-arab-world-presented-by-metaboundless-and-in-collaboration-with-composer/ Key Highlights: MetaBoundless is hosting the first-ever Avatar Concert in the Metaverse on October 20th 2022. Together with their partners, Algorand Foundation, Apparel Group, 6thStreet.com, and Crypto Arabs – MetaBoundless is set to deliver a unique and first-of-its-kind experience to fans. The virtual concert will feature the iconic Arabic superstars Ragheb Alama, Saad Lamjarred and Michel Fadel, who will appear in front of a global audience as digital avatars. , /PRNewswire/ — The concert is an impressive and unique experience not to be missed, marking a major step for masses of users into the metaverse. MetaBoundless has partnered with the Algorand Foundation for this concert to mint NFTs for each concert-goer, serving as their digital ticket into the show. MetaBoundless has also partnered with Apparel group, the retail industry leader in the region, as the platinum sponsor and the leading eCommerce platform 6thstreeet.com as the official merchandise partner of this first concert of the future in the Arab world. Fans are to expect unique web3/ NFT fashion that will further push the uniqueness of the first “Concert of the Future”- A Step into the metaverse. “Superstar” Ragheb Alama and “LM3ALLEM” Saad Lamjarred Join Forces in the Metaverse for the First-Ever Avatar Concert in the Arab World In a unique Arab-led virtual concert starring Ragheb Alama and Saad Lamjarred, ticket sales went live on September 15th, 2022. This historical release is the first step towards accessing the exciting world of Web3, Metaverse, NFTS and DAOs. The concert of the future– A step into the metaverse is the first time Arabic music legends and superstars will unite in a dynamic series of virtual worlds to deliver a one-of-a-kind experience to fans. The virtual concert will be released live to fans on October 20th, 2022, starring Ragheb Alama, Saad Lamjarred, and Michel Fadel, composing new and old hits from these superstars. The tickets can be purchased online at https://metaboundless.io/. However, these are not just any tickets. These tickets give you NFT rewards through the MetaBoundless claims portal, and these NFTs have unique benefits to be revealed over time. MetaBoundless aims to simplify and utilize Web3 tools to create a bridge between superstars, content creators and influencers. For The Concert of the Future – A Step into the Metaverse, MetaBoundless has partnered with Algorand, a leading blockchain network known for its environmental friendliness, hyper-low fees, and user-friendly ecosystem of applications. Shamir Ozery, Head of Web3 at the Algorand Foundation, commented: “We‘re excited to be part of the Middle East’s first-ever metaverse concert! The artist avatar NFTs will serve not only as a commemorative token of a user’s participation in this first-of-its-kind experience but also to build a community among attendees and demonstrate utility, serving as each guest’s ticket into the virtual experience. It is a great opportunity for music fans to experience firsthand some of the creative use cases for digital assets beyond cryptocurrencies.”  “Superstar” Ragheb Alama talks about his partnership with MetaBoundless and this experience: “This is the first time my avatar will be revealed to the virtual world. Fans all over the world will see me in a new way and be able to access memorabilia from this event as NFT rewards for purchasing tickets. Everything in this concert is unique, this is the way to go for concerts in the future, and I am keen to keep up with the future and popular trends.” “LM3ALLEM” Saad Lamjarred describes his participation in this concert: “I witnessed similar global experiences for futuristic concerts, and I am sure that this concert will be something very unique for our beloved fans. I am excited for the fans to see me and my unique digital avatar in the virtual concert.” Music composer Michel Fadel stated: “The changes in the market and the music industry always require us to keep up with new trends. I am excited to partner with MetaBoundless to deliver these trends to a larger audience and help use some of these innovative tools to give more power to the fans.” Dharmin Ved, CEO of 6thstreet.com, the merchandising partner of the first “Concert of the Future ” in the Arab world, stated: “As 6thstreet.com, we are all about setting trends for the future generations. As a first experience with a celebrity-led Avatar & NFT concert, we want to create a similar experience for the fans and ticket holders when it comes to the merchandise by Creating fashion items that will also be inspired and linked to the web3 space and NFTs.” Adi K. Mishra, CEO and Founder of MetaBoundless, commented, “Our objective is to be able to connect celebrities with their fans using tools from the Web3 world. We are also looking forward to building our partnership with the Apparel group, the retail conglomerate in the GCC and 6thStreet.com in order to deliver exciting merchandise options in order to link the real world and the virtual world for a community-led experience. We believe the world of media and entertainment will be transformed over the next decade, and MetaBoundless aims to be at the forefront of this change. The company is presently in discussions with other leading artists to bring onboard as well.” About MetaBoundless: MetaBoundless is the new cultural economy designed to enhance entertainment, sports and media with the power of community. MetaBoundless is the Web3.0 bridge between creators and fans and connects creators and creator IP with fans to produce and scale creator content. MetaBoundless goal is to enable creators and fans to collaborate and invest in each other. About Algorand Foundation The Algorand blockchain — designed by MIT professor and Turing Award-winning cryptographer Silvio Micali — is capable of delivering on the promise of a borderless global economy. It achieves transaction throughputs at the speed of traditional finance, with immediate finality and near zero transaction costs, and without a second of downtime since it went live in June 2019. Its carbon-neutral platform and unique pure proof-of-stake consensus mechanism solve for the “blockchain trilemma” by achieving both security and scalability on a decentralized protocol. The Algorand Foundation is dedicated to helping fulfill the global promise of the Algorand blockchain by taking responsibility for its sound monetary supply economics, decentralized governance, and healthy and prosperous open-source ecosystem. For more information, visit https://algorand.foundation. Media Details: Follow MetaBoundless on social media to stay up to date with all their latest news, announcements, and updates: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Youtube | Snapchat Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1910055/Meta_Boundless.jpg SOURCE Meta Boundless

Robinhood Launches Its Self-Custody ‘Robinhood Wallet’ For Crypto Traders – Kitco NEWS https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/robinhood-launches-its-self-custody-robinhood-wallet-for-crypto-traders-kitco-news/ Editor’s Note: With so much market volatility, stay on top of daily news! Get caught up in minutes with our speedy summary of today’s must-read news and expert opinions. Sign up here! (Kitco News) – The American financial service company Robinhood announced the beta launch of Robinhood Wallet, a standalone app on the Apple Store that allows users to trade and swap cryptos with no network fees.  According to Robinhood its wallet is a self-custody, Web3 wallet that will initially support the Polygon network as its first blockchain, with plans to add support for additional networks in the future.  During the beta launch the new iOS wallet is being made available to the first 10,000 users who joined the waitlist in May 2022.  Johann Kerbrat, chief technology officer of Robinhood Crypto, called the launch of the Robinhood Wallet beta “a significant step forward in our journey to make Robinhood the most trusted and simple crypto platform for customers.”  “Like we did with the stock market, Robinhood Wallet strips away some of the complexities of web3 and DeFi to make crypto more accessible to everyone,” Kerbrat said.  The brokerage firm’s choice of Polygon as its preferred network is not surprising after the platform added support for on-chain deposits and withdrawals for Polygon’s MATIC token back in August.  The Polygon network also offers a greater level of scalability, faster transaction times and lower fees than many competing networks, along with having a potent developer ecosystem.  The beta release will allow users to perform common tasks such as trading, rewards, storage and DApp-based yield farming of cryptocurrencies. Future versions of the wallet will include support for a nonfungible token (NFT) marketplace that is currently in development.  With the launch of the new app, Robinhood is looking to replicate with crypto what it did with stock trading.  During the beta testing period, Circle’s USDC stablecoin will be the primary fiat-representative token on the app, and there will also be a rewards center where users can accrue rewards, including some initial MATIC tokens for creating the wallet.  The Robinhood Wallet also offers access to a larger selection of cryptos than are currently available on Robinhood’s main platform, with 25 to 30 tokens available during the beta according to Kerbrat. Once the trial period is complete, the firm will also add support for NFTs.    Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.

U.S. Dollar Hits A 20-Year High. The Greenback Has ‘Gone Ballistic.’ – Barron’s https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/u-s-dollar-hits-a-20-year-high-the-greenback-has-gone-ballistic-barrons/ This copy is for your personal, non-commercial use only. To order presentation-ready copies for distribution to your colleagues, clients or customers visit http://www.djreprints.com. https://www.barrons.com/articles/us-dollar-20-year-high-51664361425 Updated Sept. 28, 2022 9:27 am ET / Original Sept. 28, 2022 6:37 am ET Order Reprints Print Article The U.S. dollar pushed to a 20-year high on Wednesday as major global currencies continued to depreciate against the greenback—yet another macro factor that is a headwind for the stock market. The U.S. Dollar Index, which measures the currency against a basket of six peers, rose about 0.5% to above 114.50 on Wednesday, having briefly gone as high as 114.75. The dollar is now at its strongest since early 2002 and has surged 20% this year.

Tiidal Gaming CEO Says Its ‘Flash Markets’ Betting Product Will Revolutionize Esports And Create New Market – Proactive Investors USA https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/tiidal-gaming-ceo-says-its-flash-markets-betting-product-will-revolutionize-esports-and-create-new-market-proactive-investors-usa/ Tiidal Gaming Group boss Tom Hearne said the “innovative product” is currently in the “testing cycle with four great esports brands, and we are getting positive feedback” Tiidal Gaming Group Corp (CSE:TIDL) CEO Tom Hearne has told shareholders that the company’s ‘Flash Markets’ betting product will “revolutionize esports and create an entirely new addressable market segment.” The new technology offering from Sportsflare, a wholly-owned division of Tiidal Gaming, enables bettors to make flash bets for popular esports titles, including League of Legends and Dota 2. “Founded in a deep understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and esports, they have been able to create market-leading technology that can make in-game predictions providing a unique offering that competitors are not able to make. The result of this is ‘Flash Markets’, a betting product that is the first-of-its-kind for esports,” Hearne said in a letter to shareholders. READ: Tiidal Gaming Group reveals proposed rebrand to Sportsflare and C$500k private placement financing “Flash Markets allow a gamer/bettor to watch a live League of Legends or Dota 2 board (and soon a CS:GO or FIFA match board), see the player positions, and be given the opportunity to make a selection of bets as to which player or team will get the next kill or which tower will fall next,” he added. Hearne said the “innovative product” is currently in the “testing cycle with four great esports brands, and we are getting positive feedback.” The company said it had the chance to showcase its product at the SBC Summit Barcelona event to the world’s best direct-to-consumer betting sites, as well as top business-to-business providers in the space. “Everyone was excited to get a first-hand look at the product and wanted to know when and how they could get access to it,” added Hearne. “Our goal, from this show, is to distribute the product via these two channels, enabling us to highlight our product with the best and leading sports betting sites in the world.” Hearne noted that the company’s focus will be on fostering relationships with the prospects they meet and turning them into customers in the near future. “You can expect us to be making more announcements about the Flash Markets product over Fall 2022,” he added. “This is what we have been waiting for – the opportunity to grow the business after ensuring we have the product set that we needed to succeed.” Part of this was getting access to live data, according to the company. In July this year, it signed a deal with Bayes Esports and got access to live data for Riot and ESL League games. “This is the only way to succeed at developing a robust live betting product,” noted Hearne. “Our competitors scrape data from other websites in order to try to achieve this, which we believe will lead to no success as it is an inferior method.” Hearne told shareholders that the company’s deal with Bayes was two-fold. “Not only did we gain access to the best data available, we also obtained a new customer,” he said. “At SBC, Bayes announced that they were launching Bodex, the esports betting platform that will be the new esports base for Betradar customers. We are part of the pre-match and live odds offering in Bodex. This is the start of the growth of our revenue base and the demonstration of our product capabilities at the highest level.” Meanwhile, Hearne pointed out that despite the technology sector facing a correction in the stock market and a lack of financing activity in the North American capital markets, Tiidal Gaming insiders, who collectively own over 50% of the company’s share capital, have continued to invest in the company through the current $0.10 unit financing by buying shares in the open market. “I have invested approximately $200,000 since joining the company earlier this year,” said Hearne. “We are fortunate to have a core group that believes strongly in what we are doing and the substantial opportunity this market has over the next few years. Skill-based wagering, in-game betting, and esports represent a blue-sky opportunity.” Contact the author Uttara Choudhury at uttara@proactiveinvestors.com Follow her on Twitter: @UttaraProactive

Flood Insurance Rates Rising In CT, Fewer People Getting Coverage – MySA https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/flood-insurance-rates-rising-in-ct-fewer-people-getting-coverage-mysa/ Sep. 28, 2022 It was a span any flood insurance policyholder would hope for, as just 18 claims were filed in Connecticut for reimbursement from flood damage over 12 months through this past June under the National Flood Insurance Program.  But with video of Nova Scotia structures floating away this weekend during Hurricane Fiona — and with Florida girding for Hurricane Ike’s landfall on Wednesday — Connecticut homeowners are getting a fresh reminder of the risk of going without insurance even as it gets more expensive for some. Under the National Flood Insurance Program, nearly 31,400 policies were in force in Connecticut as of late August. Under a new “Risk Rating 2.0” methodology that assigns risk by individual structures rather than flood zones, about 46 percent of Connecticut policyholders saw their monthly premiums increase by up to $120 a month, and 17 percent more according to FEMA data. The remaining 37 percent saw premiums decline. Flood risk and property values are the two main factors underwriters weigh in determining rates — and both have been marching upward in the past few years as the Federal Emergency Management Agency institutes new NFIP underwriting guidelines, and as the COVID-19 pandemic created a boom in home values that is now leveling off. Congress has yet to act on a long-term extension for the National Flood Insurance Program, having kept it funded through a series of short-term reauthorizations. An industry expert told a committee in May that overall monetary inflation is taking its toll, with some NFIP policyholders dropping coverage in order to meet other needs. But he said the pricing overhaul was needed to ensure NFIP can meet the needs of future claims. “You cannot say that the flood risk is growing and then expect the price of that risk to be cheaper — that does not compute,” stated Roy Wright, CEO of  the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, in comments to the House Financial Services Committee during a hearing on flood insurance. “There is no greater risk-communication tool than a pricing signal.”  As of August, Connecticut premiums averaged $1,370 annually. The combined $43 million shelled out by those policyholders provided insurance against aggregate losses of more than $8.5 billion — though the Federal Emergency Management Agency reported just $110,000 in insurance claims paid out to Connecticut policyholders over the intervening year. If the point of very point of insurance — paying annually against the possibility of a catastrophic flood — fewer people are renewing policies in Connecticut or lining them up after purchasing a home in a flood zone. Connecticut had roughly 600 fewer policies in force between April 2021 and August 2022 under the National Flood Insurance Program, according to FEMA data. The decline has occurred despite 2020 and 2021 being the first and third most active years on record for named storms. Over a two week span in August and early September last year, the remnants of three storms — Fred, Henri and Ida — lashed portions of Connecticut. As of August, Milford led Connecticut for NFIP policies with about 2,150 in effect. Stamford, Fairfield and Norwalk were the next three up, with Norwalk residents paying the most in premiums at $2.6 million for about 1,700 policies in effect, averaging out to just over $1,500 a policy. But the range of premiums facing homeowners is evident in towns with only a handful of policies, where the averages are far higher. In Stafford, 15 policyholders are averaging nearly $4,000 in annual payments, and in Harwinton three property owners are averaging just over $5,000 annually. Alex.Soule@scni.com; @casoulman

Hurricane Ian Is Wreaking Havoc On Travel In Florida – Travel Off Path https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/hurricane-ian-is-wreaking-havoc-on-travel-in-florida-travel-off-path/ Last Updated 2 mins ago If you’ve seen the news lately, you know how much Hurricane Ian is stealing headlines, and for good reason. Hurricane Ian is wreaking havoc on travel in Florida, and its progression will not be pretty. Many counties along Florida’s western coast have even received evacuation orders, including part of Florida’s third most-populous city, Tampa. Current projections show that Ian is an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane that is bordering on Category 5. The storm is predicted to hit the western coast of Florida sometime Wednesday afternoon. Category 4 means maximum sustained wind speeds could be as high as 130-156 mph as Ian makes its way into Florida, and current forecasts show 155 mph winds. According to recent reports, “It’s no longer possible to safely evacuate.” Governor Ron DeSantis made the statement this morning as Hurricane Ian is set to cause a potentially catastrophic storm surge. 12 to 16 feet of water is forecast for Fort Myers, enough to completely submerge some homes. Landfall is currently expected to hit between Venice Beach and Fort Myers. Travel is already being affected by Hurricane Ian. As the hurricane develops, travel will likely be affected even more. Image Courtesy Of: Zoom Earth Air Travel Disruptions As Ian makes its way towards Florida, several airlines and airports have announced plans to close or cancel flights to the regions likely to be affected. Airlines have announced cancellations and opportunities for passengers to take advantage of a travel waiver for flights affected by the hurricane. Airline Responses to Hurricane Ian Alaska: The airline stated on its website, “Flights to and from Miami International, Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International, Southwest Florida International, Tampa International, and Orlando International airport may be delayed or canceled due to Hurricane Ian.” In response, the airline stated, “We are offering a flexible travel policy if you would like to change or cancel your flight.” Allegiant: The airline has stated on its website, “Based on forecasted weather conditions, there is a possibility our scheduled service may be disrupted (flights may be delayed, diverted, and/or canceled) to and from the following cities on the dates Monday, September 26, 2022 – Friday, September 30, 2022.” Airports included in their advisory were PIE, SRQ, PGD, FLL, SFB, VPS, EYW, and JAX. Customers can change their flight by calling 702-505-8888. If your flight is canceled, Allegiant will automatically refund the ticket cost. American: American issued a travel alert for 20 airports and allows customers to rebook without change fees. Passengers can rebook at aa.com or by calling 800-433-7300. Delta: Delta announced that starting Tuesday night, they would not operate at TPA, SRQ, or RSW. Beginning Wednesday, Delta will not operate at Orlando (MCO). Travelers affected must rebook by October 3rd to take advantage of Delta’s Fare Difference Waiver. Southwest: Southwest, as usual, has offered the most flexibility. Customers traveling to or from ANY Florida airport between September 25th and October 2nd can change their flights at no additional charge. Spirit: Spirit is allowing customers flying to or from FLL, RSW, MIA, MCO, or TPA between September 25th and 30th can change their flights for free as long as they do so before October 3rd. United: United is allowing customers who planned on traveling to or from ANY Florida airport between September 23rd and 30th the opportunity to rebook with no fees, as long as they purchased their original ticket before the 23rd. Customers must rebook by the 8th of October. Virgin: Virgin is allowing customers who bought tickets before September 25th for travel to or from ANY Florida airports between the 25th and the 30th the opportunity to rebook with no fees as long as their new travel is completed by October 3rd Image Courtesy Of: Zoom Earth, at 8:20 a.m. September 28th, Hurricane Ian was about 61 miles from landfall if current trajectories hold. Airport Closures Due To Hurricane Ian Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB): Closing at 2 p.m. on Wednesday 9-28, with the goal of reopening as soon as possible. We will close at 2pm on Wednesday, September 28. Our goal is to resume normal operations as quickly as possible once conditions are safe following #HurricaneIan. We will announce reopening details as soon as they are available. For flight information, please call your airline. pic.twitter.com/0QNim1Hjno — Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) (@FlyMLB) September 27, 2022 Orlando International Airport (MCO): Closing at 10:20 a.m. on Wednesday 9-28, with the goal of reopening as soon as possible. Operational Update – Hurricane Ian Commercial operations at MCO will cease at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, 09/28/22. Entry to all parking facilities will be closed at that same period. Please contact your airline for flight updates. pic.twitter.com/P75DooP2EA — Orlando International Airport (@MCO) September 27, 2022 Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ): Closed Tuesday 9-27 at 8 p.m. As Hurricane Ian approaches, The Sarasota Bradenton International Airport will be CLOSED starting at 8pm today, 9/27/2022. All scheduled flight operations will be suspended following our last departure at 6pm. Check with your airline for the latest flight information. pic.twitter.com/ld4bRlXrwz — SRQ Airport (@SRQAirport) September 27, 2022 Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW): Closed Tuesday 9-27 at 9 p.m St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE): Closed Tuesday 9-27 at 1 p.m. Flights are currently operating Monday and Tuesday morning as scheduled. The airport terminal will close at 1:00 pm on Tuesday 9/27 due to mandatory evacuation orders from Pinellas County and remain closed until the evacuation order is lifted. Contact your airlines for updates. pic.twitter.com/zIHlzG4Ct4 — St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (@iflypie) September 26, 2022 Tampa International Airport (TPA): Closed at 5 p.m. Tuesday evening and will reopen as soon as possible. As planned, Tampa International Airport has now suspended operations due to Hurricane Ian. The Airport is closed to all passengers and visitors, with only employees considered to be “storm riders” remaining on Airport property to assist with essential on-site tasks. pic.twitter.com/BLu4UOBW00 — Tampa International Airport (@FlyTPA) September 27, 2022 Park Closures Travelers Should Know About Florida State Parks: Dozens of parks are closed due to Hurricane Ian; for a complete list, check Florida State Park’s website. The Florida Park Service is actively monitoring #HurricaneIan. We’ll keep you updated on the latest developments and state park closures. See the complete list of affected state parks here: https://t.co/VVTQuAb5IQ. pic.twitter.com/kBp9XQoilB — Florida State Parks (@FLStateParks) September 26, 2022 Disney World: Closed the 28th – 29th Walt Disney World Resort Update on Hurricane Ian – For the latest information, visit: https://t.co/tFCa0Atuj5 pic.twitter.com/2HikYFXRU6 — Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) September 27, 2022 Universal Studios: Closed the 28th – 29th Universal Orlando Resort, including CityWalk, will close on Sept. 28 & remain fully closed on Sept. 29. We anticipate reopening on Sept. 30 as conditions permit. pic.twitter.com/nPgsmv6TUv — Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) September 27, 2022 Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Closed the 27th – 29th UPDATE: Busch Gardens will now be closed today, September 27 through Thursday, September 29. For additional details, please visit https://t.co/hCv7Wec8Sf pic.twitter.com/XthVh5dItr — Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (@BuschGardens) September 27, 2022 LegoLand: Closed the 28th – 29th Resort closure includes LEGOLAND® FL Theme Park, Water Park & Peppa Pig Theme Park. Tickets dated for 9/28-10/2 will be automatically extended thru 12/31/22. Vacation stays during this time can be rebooked without penalty. Learn more at https://t.co/rKFCcHe1n2. Stay safe! pic.twitter.com/XflGsQ0OT0 — LEGOLAND Florida (@LEGOLANDFlorida) September 27, 2022 Take Precautions Travelers in any affected areas are advised to follow all local guidelines with regard to evacuation and sheltering. Any travelers who had plans to visit affected areas are advised to work with their airlines and other bookings to reschedule and initiate refunds. This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com ↓ Join the community ↓ The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!  SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

AP Top Business News At 6:27 A.m. EDT – WTMJ https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/ap-top-business-news-at-627-a-m-edt-wtmj/ AP Top Business News at 6:27 a.m. EDT  WTMJ

Health Benefits Of Low-Carb Vegan Diet Are Same As Vegetarian Diet: Study – Bel Marra Health https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/health-benefits-of-low-carb-vegan-diet-are-same-as-vegetarian-diet-study-bel-marra-health/ If you’re unsure of what type of diet may be best for you, a new study may be of interest. Researchers have found that the health benefits of a low-carb vegan diet are the same as a vegetarian diet. So, if you’re looking for an animal-free way to reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions, going low-carb vegan and vegetarian are both excellent choices. Keep in mind that it’s important to ensure you’re getting enough protein and other essential nutrients on a vegetarian or low-carb vegan diet, so talk to your doctor or nutritionist about how to make sure you’re taking care of yourself. The study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggested an important difference between the two diets. It was found that a low-carbohydrate vegan diet had a significantly lower potential carbon emission value than its high-carbohydrate vegetarian counterpart. It was also found that the lower the potential carbon emission value of the diet, the more significant the reduction in blood cholesterol. Food Facts For the study, researchers analyzed people who were on two different types of plant-based diets. The first one was a low-carbohydrate vegan diet with no meat, dairy or eggs, supplemented with canola-oil enriched bread and high-protein vegan meat alternatives. The second diet was a vegetarian version of the DASH diet (a standard clinical diet for lowering blood pressure) which included egg whites and low-fat dairy but no meat. The researchers used this information to compare the health benefits as well as the carbon emission potential of each diet. Greenhouse gas emission databases were used to obtain mean values for each food. At the end of the three months, researchers found that the two diets were similar in their effects on weight loss and seemed to reduce blood cholesterol and blood pressure. Overall, participants on the vegan diet lost 5.9 kilos, and those on the vegetarian diet lost 5.2 kilos. Both groups also saw a reduction in hemoglobin A1c, a marker of glycemic control. “We showed that you actually reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with a diet that is effective, and that the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is related to the fall in LDL cholesterol—often called the ‘bad’ cholesterol,” said lead author Dr. David Jenkins. “So, as you reduce the impact of your diet on the environment, you also benefit by lowering your cholesterol.” A Complete Diet To help ensure your diet is complete, 65+ Superfood Essentials is an excellent addition to a daily supplement regime. This breakthrough formula is a great way to support and promote cardiovascular and overall health. It contains Capros®, a patented and clinically studied Indian gooseberry extract that has been found to absorb free radicals and provide cascading antioxidants. Acai berry (the powerful natural antioxidant known to support total health) and resveratrol, a premier anti-aging ingredient, are also found in this formulation that can help ensure proper nutrients and vitamins that are essential as you age.

Boys’ Soccer Top 10 (Sept. 28, 2022) | Sports | News-Gazette.com – News-Gazette https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/boys-soccer-top-10-sept-28-2022-sports-news-gazette-com-news-gazette/ RK., SCHOOL REC. PREV. COMMENT 1. Champaign Central 13-1-2 2 Maroons saw a four-match win streak conclude via a draw with Peoria Notre Dame. They’ll visit Normal Community next. 2. Urbana 10-2-2 3 Tigers won on both Monday and Tuesday, dispatching non-league foe Mahomet-Seymour and Big 12 foe Bloomington. 3. Monticello 13-3 5 Sages controlled St. Thomas More on Tuesday for a meaningful Illini Prairie victory. Olympia comes to town on Thursday. 4. Mahomet-Seymour 11-3-2 4 Bulldogs have won six of their last eight matches overall ahead of Thursday’s Apollo Conference showdown with Charleston. 5. St. Thomas More 12-3 1 Sabers will need to recover from a setback versus Monticello in time for Thursday’s bout with Bloomington Central Catholic. 6. Oakwood/Salt Fork 15-3-2 6 Comets rumbled past Watseka and Hoopeston Area in Vermilion Valley action, visit Georgetown-Ridge Farm/Westville this week. 7. Uni High 6-5-4 7 Illineks shut out East Central Illinois opponent Judah Christian last time out, return to the pitch Thursday versus St. Teresa. 8. Fisher/GCMS 14-4-1 8 Bunnies have won three consecutive road matches, most recently at Hoopeston Area, and they visit Clifton Central soon. 9. St. Joseph-Ogden 10-4-1 9 Spartans were slowed by Bloomington CC but will stay busy through this week, facing Iroquois West, Rantoul and St. Anne. 10. Centennial 6-6-2 10 Chargers bounced back from a loss to Normal West by staving off Peoria Richwoods. They’re off until the month of October. Colin Likas is the preps coordinator at The News-Gazette. He can be reached at clikas@news-gazette.com, or on Twitter at @clikasNG.

Dubai Plans To Start New Economic Metric Called ‘gross Metaverse Product’ – The National https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/dubai-plans-to-start-new-economic-metric-called-gross-metaverse-product-the-national/ Emirate aims to apply it in sectors such as tourism, education, retail, real estate and government Omar Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications and chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, delivers a keynote speech at the Dubai Metaverse Assembly on Wednesday. Khushnum Bhandari / The National Beta V.1.0 – Powered by automated translation Dubai is considering plans to implement a new economic output metric to measure the contribution of the metaverse to its economy, according to the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications. The new metric, set to be called “gross metaverse product”, will showcase how the emerging technology is poised to be a significant contributor to the future economy, Omar Al Olama said at the Dubai Metaverse Assembly on Wednesday. “Gross metaverse product will be able to create billions of dollars in returns from Dubai without people being physically in the emirate but experiencing it in the metaverse,” said Mr Al Olama, who is also chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. The sectors that the metric will be applied to include tourism, education, retail, real estate and the government, he said. The minister did not reveal any further details or when it is likely to be launched. The metaverse, an emerging space where people can interact in virtual worlds, presents an economic opportunity worth between $8 trillion and $13tn, although it is heavily dependent on how much companies are willing to invest in the emerging innovation, according to consultancy PricewaterhouseCoopers. The UAE has taken a number of steps to promote the adoption of the metaverse. In July, officials unveiled the Dubai Metaverse Strategy, which aims to create 40,000 jobs and add $4 billion to the emirate’s economy over the next five years. Mr Al Olama stressed that Dubai is building the metaverse with a pragmatic view, ensuring that its development is not based on hype or unproven mechanics, but rather, on a strategy with tangible outcomes. “We have a goal of making Dubai one of the leaders in the metaverse globally,” he said. A major benefit that the metaverse provides for the workforce is that it helps protect workers and also has the potential to pay higher salaries, said Sultan bin Sulayem, chairman and chief executive of Dubai-based ports operator DP World. “The metaverse is a technology that we need, as it allows us to interact better and has so much potential in our business,” he said at the assembly. “The impact for the people will be better because you will move people from a job that is dangerous and doesn’t pay much to one that is safer and pays more.” Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed made an appearance at the Dubai Metaverse Assembly at the Museum of the Future. All photos: Khushnum Bhandari / The National DP World in May said it was tapping into the metaverse with a new platform to solve supply-chain challenges. The platform, called DPMetaWorld, is expected to be released by the end of 2022 and will use digital solutions and accelerate their adoption through the untapped capabilities of the metaverse, “helping drive efficiency and transparency”, the company said at that time. Mr bin Sulayem said that the digitisation of jobs allows companies, such as DP World, to delegate employees to other essential tasks to make operations more robust, which in turn would result in higher revenue. Citing an example, he said that instead of staff operating machines, which is a repetitive job and can be automated, they can be reassigned to other areas such as mobilising cargo and negotiating prices with clients, which would add value to the company’s overall operations. “People would be in the office doing their best … that is better for me and the business,” he added. Updated: September 28, 2022, 1:08 PM

Intel NUC 12 Pro Mini PC NUC12WSHi7 – Geeky Gadgets https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/intel-nuc-12-pro-mini-pc-nuc12wshi7-geeky-gadgets/ 1:04 pm September 28, 2022 By Julian Horsey If you are interested in learning more about the new Intel NUC 12 Pro mini PC reference NUC12WSHi7 which is available in both tall and short versions, with the short version unable to accept the 2.5 inch drives. You will be pleased to know that YouTuber ETA Prime has created a great 10 minute unboxing and first the latest Intel NUC 12 Pro mini PC powered by 12th Generation Intel Core processors and previously codenamed Wall Street Canyon. The mini PC is capable of supporting a wide variety of different operating systems including Windows 11 Home, Windows 11 Pro, Windows 10 Home, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, Windows 10 Pro, Red Hat Linux and Ubuntu 20.04 LTS depending on your needs. Other features include 2 x 8GB DDR4-3200 SODIMMs and 500GB Gen 4 NVMe SSD. The $1,299 version includes the hardware listed below, but other systems are available for $1,000 and $1,160 if preferred. – i7-1260P 12 Cores 16 Threads 4.7GHz, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, Supports one 8K or four 4K displays – WiFi 6E AX, BT 5.2, 2.5GB Ethernet, 3x USB 3.2 Type-A, 1x USB 2.0 Type-A, 2x USB 4 (Thunderbolt 4 type C) – 2x HDMI 2.0b, 2x DP 1.4a and USB 4 via Thunderbolt , 3.5mm headphone/mic jack – Installed 64GB RAM + 2TB NVMe, Windows 11 Pro NUC 12 Pro mini PC “In this video, we take a look at and test out the new Intel Nuc 12 Pro NUC12WSHi7 land this little PC is pretty amazing! Powered by a 12 Core 16 threads CPU and backed by up to 64 GB of ram, and yes it supports Thunderbolt 4, USB4 external GPUs! So by the end, we attach an RTX 3060 eGPU. We do an unboxing, run some benchmarks test out some PC games and emulation on this awesome Intel NUC 12 Pro” “Streamline your embedded systems by integrating a serial port expansion panel to effortlessly operate within your industrial application and enjoy zero downtime with 24/7 and faulttolerant operation with DC transient voltage suppression. Expand your networking capabilities with headless display and the additional LAN expansion to give your edge devices or embedded solutions network redundancy and security. Dual HDMI with persistent display functionality and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports can power four 4K displays simultaneously giving you superior video quality and flexibility to create immersive digital signage.” Source : Intel Filed Under: Hardware, Top News Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more. Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals

Is NFT Utility A Challenge? Learn How Cocky Is Setting New Standards – Cryptonews https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/is-nft-utility-a-challenge-learn-how-cocky-is-setting-new-standards-cryptonews/ Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) continue to attract special attention within the cryptocurrency sector, even though the initial hype surrounding them has subsided a little, and even though crypto continues to suffer its way through a bear market. After Collins Dictionary made non-fungible token its word of the year in 2021, the burgeoning NFT sub-sector continues to grow steadily, with trading volume still topping half a billion dollars per month. However, while NFTs still manage to sell for large sums, finding a genuine real-world use case for non-fungible tokens remains something of a conundrum. Musicians and bands have released albums in conjunction with limited-edition NFTs, while names such as Bored Ape Yacht Club are branching out into new areas, yet it’s arguable that non-fungible tokens have yet to find a ‘killer app’ that provides actual utility to their holders. This is a valid criticism, but it’s one that may not remain valid for much longer. Significant players within the music and gaming industries, for instance, are convinced that NFTs have a meaningful future within their sectors, and there’s one new player within the music and entertainment that serves as a good example of this. This is Cocky, a self-styled “lifestyle club” that uses NFTs to offer access to a variety of music events, both in-person and in virtual reality. By linking non-fungible tokens to the attendance of actual events, Cocky anchors them in the real world, ensuring that they will have value insofar as they refer to something other than themselves. What is Cocky and How Is It Linking NFTs to Music Events? Launched only a few months ago, Cocky aims to use NFTs in a variety of interesting ways in the context of live (and virtual) music events. At its most simple, Cocky will issue a collection of 10,000 NFTs based on the Ethereum blockchain. These NFTs will take the form of “visually stunning” cans (i.e. soft drink cans), as picture below. According to Cocky’s website, these cans will be based around 51 skin variations, which alter their basic designs and styles. Where things get interesting, however, is that these NFT-based cans will alter depending on the Cocky events holders attend. For instance, the cans will have one of three possible lids (black, silver and gold), which vary according to the user’s tier and which provide the holder with unique benefits at Cocky events. These lids are randomly assigned to NFTs, providing their holders with such perks as accommodation, subsidized transport and bar tabs. More interestingly, a user’s NFT receives ‘passport stamps’ when attending new events. The more events they attend, the more their can mutates, increasing its rarity and potentially increasing its value on the second-hand market. The combination of these mutations and randomly assigned lids/tiers will likely make buying Cocky NFTs on the secondary market more desirable to traders, since ownership would confer future benefits on holders, as well as enabling attendance of events. This is precisely where utility enters the picture, since holding a Cocky will become useful and valuable to its holder, enabling them to enjoy real-world experiences and obtain special VIP benefits while doing so. As for these experiences, Cocky’s website and Twitter reveal that these will be (at least for now) “world-class” electronic music events. It plans to stage anything from two to four in-person festivals or events each year, as well as more regular virtual events. With the virtual events, they will be streamed by Cocky on its own platform, whereas the physical events will take place at “spectacular locations across the globe.” None of these locations have been revealed yet, but Cocky is certainly promising big things by using the word “spectacular.” The Roadmap and Pre-Mint Sale Helpfully, Cocky has released its roadmap on its website, revealing that it will release the location — as well as open registration — for its first event in the final quarter of this year. This first event will then take place in the opening quarter of 2023, attendance of which will confer mutations onto the NFTs held by participants. As for actually obtaining Cocky’s NFTs in the first place, its pre-mint sale has just begun, with interested parties able to register via a visit to the platform’s official website. Overall, Cocky’s plans are certainly ambitious, with its roadmap and FAQ suggesting that Cocky is positioning itself as a kind of Bored Ape Yacht Club for music events. While it isn’t explicitly stated anywhere in the platform’s online materials, it’s likely that its events and NFTs will be aimed at the higher, more luxury end of the market, at least judging by its promise of beautiful locations around the world. This would mean that ownership of Cocky NFT could potentially provide ordinary holders with the opportunity to rub shoulders with a more ‘upmarket’ demographic. Needless to say, time will obviously tell whether the rich and/or famous will go for Cocky’s NFTs, as they did with BAYC. Assuming that Cocky can secure good lineups for its music events and good facilities, there’s every chance it will attract a decent crowd and community. If this does turn out to be the case, then its NFTs could end up becoming valuable, since they will grant entry into a world where music lovers can enjoy singular experiences and meet likeminded people. The Future of NFTs In other words, Cocky’s events will help non-fungible tokens become more than a nice digital collectible to have in your possession. And this is something that NFTs have been trying to evolve beyond for a couple of years now, despite the initial hype. Encouragingly, there are other indications that NFTs may start offering some genuine value to their holders, beyond speculation. This is evident in the use gaming developers and publishers are aiming to make of non-fungible tokens, while it’s also evident in crypto-native projects such as Bored Ape Yacht Club moving into the metaverse. It will take some time to things to mature the point where NFTs make a valuable contribution to their holders’ lives, yet it’s clear now that the industry is well aware that it needs to do more than simply offer a promising vehicle for speculation. And with Cocky’s plans to attach NFTs to real-world events, it seems that it has begun to do just that.

Inflation Reduction Act Benefits: Good Paying Jobs And Revitalized U.S. Manufacturing – Forbes https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/inflation-reduction-act-benefits-good-paying-jobs-and-revitalized-u-s-manufacturing-forbes/ The Inflation Reduction Act is not just historic climate policy, its historic jobs policy, capable of creating an estimated 9 million jobs over the next ten years according to the Blue Green Alliance. But what kind of jobs will they be? For the very first time, Congress is using clean energy tax incentives to not only make more jobs, but ensure these jobs meet high labor standards and provide a just transition for fossil fuel workers. This legislation also marks the country’s most significant investment in clean manufacturing—leveraging tax dollars to grow 21st clean energy jobs in the U.S. The Washington Post via Getty Images The U.S. is finally acting to solve the climate crisis by passing the IRA. But the law is not just about slashing harmful emissions, it’s also designed to create communities where working families can thrive. The decline of American manufacturing jobs The past four decades have been tough for America’s workforce. Since 1979, the U.S. has lost nearly 7 million manufacturing jobs, mostly in the Midwest, in some cases decimating once-thriving towns. Losing good-paying manufacturing jobs meant the pandemic-induced recession and rising prices hit working Americans the hardest. Wages have stagnated with economic growth disproportionately benefitting the highest earners, while the federal minimum wage has lost 21% of its purchasing power since 2009. And stagnating wages have corresponded to a steady decline in union membership. In 1955 roughly 35% of the U.S. workforce belonged to a union, down to just about 10% today. Economic Policy Institute Many of these working families bear a disproportionate burden from harmful fossil fuel pollution. The country’s remaining coal plants are concentrated in former manufacturing regions like the Midwest, while polluting highways have been built in low-income communities of color. These towns and neighborhoods experience higher rates of asthma and other negative effects including more lost workdays and premature deaths. A renewable energy boom – and boon for workers The transition to a clean energy economy is an enormous once-in-a-generation opportunity to reinvest in America’s workers and foster thriving communities. Building a clean manufacturing sector that doesn’t pollute our air or water can also provide good-paying jobs that serve as onramps to the middle class. The IRA was intentionally designed to do just that: “The importance of this legislative win can’t be understated for working families,” said Pat Devaney of the Illinois AFL-CIO. “This new stimulus will tip the scales and help us tackle the climate crisis while beginning to reverse decades of wage stagnation and widening racial inequality.” Energy Innovation estimates the IRA’s clean energy tax credits alone could add 1,053 gigawatts of new solar and wind capacity by 2030, or about 2.5 times our current wind and solar resources. It turns out installing millions of new panels and turbines will create millions of new jobs—but in contrast to previous tax credit structure, these credits are intentionally designed to create new careers and in regions that need them most. The IRA’s tax credit provisions create enormous financial incentive for developers to meet high labor standards. Renewables project developers will receive a base tax credit for installing or producing renewable energy, 6% for the investment tax credit (ITC) and 0.5 cents per kilowatt hour for the production tax credit (PTC). However, the credit increases five-fold if prevailing wage and apprenticeship standards are met, all the way to 30% for the ITC and 2.5 cents per kilowatt hours for the PTC. High roads labor standards Prevailing wage laws ensure workers earn fair wages for their labor, and are set by surveying established local wages for skilled labor which are often the result of collective bargaining. Requiring prevailing wages for projects prevents unfair bidding advantages to employers who underpay their workers, avoiding a race to the bottom. These requirements have been tied to direct federal spending since 1931, but this is the first time they’ve been linked to clean energy tax credits. Research shows prevailing wage standards have ensured blue collar workers earn middle-incomes. To earn the bonus credit, developers must also ensure 10% of a project’s workforce is enrolled in an apprenticeship program, rising to 15% by 2024. The prevailing wage and apprenticeship provisions are complementary—as employers pay skilled wages, they hire for the skills they’re paying for, stimulating a virtuous cycle that fosters a well-paid, trained workforce. Energy Innovation Apprenticeships train the workforce required to build the clean economy and open up a pathway to the middle class for people who either can’t afford to take years away from work or can’t afford tuition. Apprenticeships allow workers to “earn as you learn,” providing on-the-job training for careers that offer higher earnings over their working life—the U.S. Department of Labor reports 93% of apprenticeship participants retain their employment after completing their training and earn an average starting salary of $77,000. Justice for fossil dependent workers and communities There are also bonus credits for creating jobs in those parts of the country that most need this influx of new, family-sustaining careers. An additional 10% credit is available for developing clean energy projects in coal or other fossil-fuel dependent communities, offering the opportunity to either revitalize areas that have already felt job losses, or ensure a smoother transition to clean energy jobs in others. Getty Images Another 10% bonus credit is available for building projects below 5 megawatts in communities with a significant share of the population below the poverty line, or 20% for projects installed on low-income housing. These bonus credits will stimulate job growth in historically marginalized communities, immediately help clear the air, and alleviate higher energy costs. The PTC and ITC includes yet another 10% bonus credit for projects utilizing domestic materials, intended to meet growing market demand for new clean technologies like offshore wind turbines while boosting traditional American manufacturing for components like iron and steel. These bonuses all add up to a whopping 50% credit for clean energy development that supports high-quality work in the neighborhoods, communities, and towns that need them most. Revitalizing and retooling American manufacturing The IRA invests a record $50 billion into building a 21st century U.S. clean energy manufacturing sector and supply chain, creating high-quality jobs for a whole new generation of Americans and ensuring competitiveness in the exploding clean tech global market. The law includes $10 billion for clean manufacturing investment (48C) tax credits to build or expand manufacturing facilities that produce solar, wind, battery, electric vehicle, energy efficiency, and other clean technologies. Four billion of these tax credits are carved-out for facilities in existing energy communities, helping prioritize a just transition for fossil fuel workers and their families. For the first time, this tax credit can be used to install equipment that achieves an at least 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. And a separate, first-of-its-kind grant program devotes another $6 billion to help energy-intensive industrial facilities reduce their emissions. AFP via Getty Images The new electric vehicle tax credits are also intentionally designed to spur domestic EV manufacturing and an entirely new supply chain. Only passenger vehicles made in America qualify for the $7,500 credit, while 50% of the battery’s components must be made or assembled in North America by 2028. The auto industry is already responding to these signals—Honda and LG have announced plans to build a new $4.4 billion battery plant in the U.S., most likely Ohio and a Chinese company is planning a new $3.6 billion plant that will create 2,000 jobs in Michigan. In addition, the IRA includes loans and grants to build or retool American factories to manufacture EVs and batteries, including $3 billion in loans to build or re-equip factories to make EVs and their components, as well as an additional $2 billion in grants specifically to retool at-risk or recently closed auto factories, sustaining good manufacturing jobs that would otherwise be lost. The brighter future for workers and the climate starts now From the Sunrise Movement’s Green New Deal to President Biden’s American Jobs Plan, the climate conversation has shifted from a focus on environmental protection to economic transformation. Passing the IRA proves that climate solutions can provide good paying jobs and justice for pollution-burdened communities. getty Declining costs for clean technologies and booming clean energy demand equal a chance to restructure our economy and eliminate polluting-infrastructure, fostering healthy neighborhoods where all kids have a shot at a rewarding career. “What laws like the Inflation Reduction Act prove,” Devaney said, “is that we don’t have to choose between creating good jobs and fighting climate change. We can do both.”

EXCLUSIVE Vietnam Preparing Rules To Limit News Posts On Social Media Accounts – Sources – Reuters https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/exclusive-vietnam-preparing-rules-to-limit-news-posts-on-social-media-accounts-sources-reuters/ SINGAPORE/HANOI, Sept 28 (Reuters) – Vietnam is preparing new rules to limit which social media accounts can post news-related content, three people familiar with the matter said, as authorities tighten their control over news and information sources in the country. The rules, expected to be announced by the year-end and with details yet to be hammered out, would establish a legal basis for controlling news dissemination on platforms like Facebook and YouTube while placing a significant moderation burden on platform providers, two of the sources added. The sources asked not to be identified, as discussions about the new rules remain confidential. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications and Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to requests for comment. “The government wants to fix what it sees as the ‘news-lisation’ of social media,” said one source familiar with the talks. “News-lisation”, or báo hoá, is a term used by the authorities to describe the misleading of users into thinking that social media accounts are authorised news outlets. Government officials have been holding confidential meetings with popular social media and internet firms to brief them on which types of accounts will be allowed to post news content under the new rules, according to the sources. Authorities would be able to order social media companies to ban accounts that break those rules, they said. Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party already maintains tight media censorship and tolerates little dissent, with one of the world’s most stringent internet regimes and national guidelines on social media behaviour. Two sources with direct knowledge told Reuters that more rules on internet and social media platforms would be introduced around the fourth quarter of 2022 to early 2023. As tech-savvy young Vietnamese increasingly turn to social media for information, those platforms have become a target for government efforts to restrict the flow of news from unauthorised sources. Vietnam is a top-10 market globally for Facebook with 60 million to 70 million users, according to 2021 data, and sources familiar with the matter said it generates around $1 billion in annual revenue for the company – surpassing France. YouTube has 60 million users in Vietnam and TikTok has 20 million, according to 2021 government estimates, although Twitter remains a relatively small player. Meta Platforms Inc (META.O), owner of Facebook, and Twitter Inc (TWTR.N) declined to comment. Alphabet Inc’s Google and YouTube did not respond to requests for comment. TikTok said in a statement that it addresses content violations based on applicable laws and with adherence to its guidelines, but did not comment on pending Vietnam regulations. The Vietnamese government had adopted in July a set of non-binding guidelines on what qualifies as news outlets, including criteria to distinguish “real” and “fake” news outlets, warning that some social networking sites include accounts that mislead users into thinking they are newspapers. Those guidelines are expected to be incorporated into the new rules, which will be binding. The authorities are also expected to implement new rules that would require social media platforms to immediately take down content deemed to harm national security, and to remove illegal content within 24 hours, sources familiar with the matter said. Sources told Reuters in April that the new rules, which were originally planned for July, reflected the government’s dissatisfaction with social media platforms’ take-down rates. read more This will be done through amendments to the country’s main internet law. Vietnam in August also issued a new regulation, due to come into effect from October, that will require technology firms to store users’ data locally and to set up local offices. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Fanny Potkin in Singapore and Phuong Nguyen in Hanoi; Editing by Edmund Klamann Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

Good Gaming Inc. Announces Official Launch Date For Their New Minecraft OP Prison Game Featuring MicroBuddies – GlobeNewswire https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/good-gaming-inc-announces-official-launch-date-for-their-new-minecraft-op-prison-game-featuring-microbuddies-globenewswire/ Good Gaming and Meraki Studios partner to bring a reimagining of Good Gaming’s popular OP Prison game to their Minecraft community September 28, 2022 08:00 ET | Source: Good Gaming, Inc. Kennett Square, PA, Sept. 28, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Good Gaming, Inc. (OTCQB: GMER) (the “Company”), an interactive entertainment brand leading the gaming industry across multiple segments in the space since 2008, is proud to announce October 15, 2022, as the official launch date of its Minecraft OP Prison Game featuring MicroBuddies. As previously announced, the Company plans to re-enter the Minecraft space with its flagship game by reintroducing one of its highest-producing game modes, OP Prison, through a newly formed alliance with Meraki Studios. Netherlands-based Meraki Studios was founded in 2017 with a mission to express its creativity by delivering breathtaking, interactive entertainment through the utilization of the Minecraft engine. Meraki utilizes the extensive Minecraft ecosystem to develop highly interactive games that are engaging and rewarding for creators, clients, and players alike. Minecraft OP Prison promises a new reinvigorated look, all new mines, and new gameplay elements, such as an all-new GOO trading system, which will allow MicroBuddies players to have cross-functionality between Minecraft and the MicroBuddies ecosystems. The Company looks to launch its OP Prison game with a slew of highly creative changes and development centered around further enhancing the game’s quality, graphics, and entertainment value. This enhanced version promises to deliver the massively fun experience of their previous OP Prison game mode with fun new twists for new and returning players. David Sterling, Good Gaming COO, stated, “Our collaboration with Meraki Studios has produced stunning results as we work around the clock to bring this project to fruition on October 15th. We expect Minecraft OP Prison to be the first of several collaborations, which we plan to announce shortly.” He also stated, “I would like to thank Meraki Studios and our Good Gaming team for their tireless dedication in bringing the launch of our re-envisioned OP Prison game to market. We are confident our community will not be disappointed.” About Good Gaming, Inc. Good Gaming is an interactive entertainment company leading the evolution of gaming from traditional gaming to creating digital playgrounds across a vast array of interconnected platforms. Founded in 2008, Good Gaming has continued to enable a strong sense of community, place, and purpose within our interactive experiences. Good Gaming believes its communities and experiences will redefine the digital collectibles space and be pivotal in the transition and perception of ownership of digital goods. To learn more about Good Gaming at: https://good-gaming.com/ To learn more about MicroBuddiesTM  at: https://microbuddies.io/ About Meraki Studios B.V. Meraki Studios B.V., a leading developer of some of the most well-known Minecraft experiences in the world, prides itself on being the home of love, creativity, and soul within the Minecraft community. We design and develop playable games for the Minecraft ecosystem, making sure the end product exceeds the expectations of its creators, the client, and the players alike. To learn more about Meraki Studios B.V. at: https://www.merakistudios.eu/  Safe Harbor: This release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements appear in a number of places in this release and include all statements that are not statements of historical fact regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of Good Gaming Inc., its directors or its officers with respect to, among other things: (i) financing plans; (ii) trends affecting its financial condition or results of operations; (iii) growth strategy and operating strategy. The words “may,” “would,” “will,” “expect,” “estimate,” “can,” “believe,” “potential,” and similar expressions and variations thereof are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Good Gaming Inc.’s ability to control, and that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. More information about the potential factors that could affect the business and financial results is and will be included in Good Gaming, Inc.’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including those set forth as “Risk Factors” in such filings.  Investor Contact: Joseph M. Vazquez III Phone: (888) 245-3005 Email: infinityglobalconsulting@gmail.com

Prosecutors Raid Headquarters Of German Far-Right Party – MySA https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/prosecutors-raid-headquarters-of-german-far-right-party-mysa/ BERLIN (AP) — The far-right Alternative for Germany party said Wednesday its national headquarters in Berlin were searched by officials with the city’s prosecutor’s office. “Since this morning, the Berlin public prosecutor’s office has been conducting a house search in the premises of the federal headquarters of Alternative for Germany, without any prior inquiry having been directed to the AfD regarding the facts to be clarified,” the party said in a statement. The search is primarily concerned with a investigation against former party chairman Joerg Meuthen in connection with earlier statements of accounts, the party said. Local media reported that the party, also known as AfD, allegedly made false statements in the accountability reports to parliament in the years 2016 to 2018. The Berlin prosecutor’s office could not immediately be reached for comment. Investigators raiding the premises looked for access to the official email accounts of Meuthen and the party’s treasurer at the time, German public broadcaster ARD reported. The investigation against Meuthen has been going on since January. Meuthen, who is a member of the European Parliament, had his parliamentarian immunity lifted, ARD reported. Investigators “copied complete hard disks, mailboxes and file folders” the AfD said in its statement.

Recessions Have A Silver Lining – The Washington Post https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/recessions-have-a-silver-lining-the-washington-post/ In his first inaugural address in March 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt said: “So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” It was the Great Depression. The unemployment rate was over 25 percent. An estimated 12 million people were out of work, about one-fourth of the civilian labor force. “More than 11,000 of 24,000 banks had failed, destroying the savings of depositors,” according to the National Archives. Fast forward to now, and as bad as things are — rising interest rates, high inflation, stock market tumbling — the economy hasn’t imploded as it did during the Great Depression. I have to say this because, as Roosevelt pointed out, fear itself can lead to actions that worsen your finances. While many people are hurting, there may be ways to cushion the downside. Here are seven silver linings if we are heading into a recession. 1. Housing prices may finally come down to reasonable levels. Yes, mortgage rates are higher, but the upside of that is that sellers in many markets will have to lower their asking prices so that buyers can qualify for the loans. With cheap loans gone, there will be fewer bidding wars to drive up home prices. 2. Savings rates are up. At least one bright side of the Federal Reserve raising rates to fight inflation is banks are paying people more to hold their money. My credit union has a special 20-month offer on a certificate that would pay me a 3 percent annual percentage yield. “Many prospective savers may not have yet noticed that yields have been on the rise,” said Mark Hamrick, senior economic analyst and Washington bureau chief for Bankrate.com. Be sure to shop around, Hamrick said. “Why leave money on the proverbial table when you can have it in your account? The key is making it a priority to have access to funds when and if an urgent development occurs,” he said. By the way, no, you shouldn’t stop contributing to your retirement plan. Historically, over time, the market recovers. If you bail now, you will miss the recovery. 3. I bonds inflation rate might go even higher. The Series I Savings Bond was created as a hedge against inflation. Until the end of October, the bonds are paying 9.62 percent. There are two components to the return for an I bond — a fixed rate and the inflation rate. The fixed rate, which right now is zero percent, applies for the 30-year life of the bond. The fixed rate of newly purchased bonds and the semiannual inflation rate are announced by the Treasury Department each May and November. If inflation stays high, I bonds could be paying more come November. To buy an electronic I bond, you must set up an account at TreasuryDirect.gov. Individuals can purchase up to $10,000 in electronic I bonds in a calendar year. 4. The dollar is king. Although a lot is in flux, if you have plans to travel overseas, your dollar may go a lot further. This week, the British pound fell to an all-time low against the dollar. 5. Unemployment is still relatively low. People with jobs and money to spare can spend on luxuries such as a vacation. Despite higher prices and rising interest rates, millions of Americans have been taking leisure trips. More than half of Americans plan to travel for one or both of the holidays this year, even though airfares will be 43 percent higher than last year, according to Hopper, a travel booking app. However, the unemployment rate did rise to 3.7 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. So, if you’re worried about your job security or a recession, just cancel your vacation plans for 2023. 6. Your used car is worth more. If you’re looking to upgrade to a newer car, and your car is in fairly good condition, you’ll get more for your trade-in. Used car and truck prices jumped 7.8 percent, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Unfortunately, new car prices were up 10 percent from a year ago. 7. Student loan forgiveness is coming. Roosevelt used his executive power to wage war against the economic emergency gripping the United States. President Biden is doing something similar by forgiving student loan debt to help struggling borrowers. Biden announced a one-time forgiveness program that will wipe out up to $10,000 in federal student loan debt and up to $20,000 for Pell Grant recipients for individuals who earn $125,000 or less per year or less than $250,000 for married couples. The Biden administration also announced last year a time-limited waiver to help forgive more debt under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Act fast to sign up for the waiver. The deadline is Oct. 31. Of course, times are tough — and for some people, much more than others. But remember that fear will not help you make wise financial decisions.

VIETNAM BUSINESS NEWS SEPTEMBER 28 – VietNamNet https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/vietnam-business-news-september-28-vietnamnet/ A corner of Binh Duong city. (Photo: VNA) Global growth investor Warburg Pincus with headquarters in New York, the US, has decided to invest in a cross-border e-commerce project in the southern province of Binh Duong. Covering 75 hectares, the project will include high-tech factories, warehouse, customs bonded warehouse, showrooms and offices.  The southern industrial hub of Binh Duong is a popular destination for foreign investors. As of September 15, the province was home to 4,069 foreign-invested projects with total registered capital of nearly 39.6 billion USD. Binh Duong is currently ranked 2nd in the country in attracting foreign direct investment, after Ho Chi Minh City. It has attracted 2.6 billion USD in the first nine months of 2022. The US currently ranks 13th out of 65 countries and territories that have invested in the province with 131 projects, worth 1.3 billion USD. Commercial banks raise deposit rates after SBV’s adjustment       Many commercial banks have increased interest rates for Vietnamese dong deposits over the past few days after the State Bank of Viet Nam raised its policy rate by 100 basis points last Thursday. Vietnam Prosperity Commercial Joint Stock Bank (VPBank) has sharply increased deposit interest rates for short terms. Specifically, customers who deposit at VPBank for a term of 2-5 months will enjoy a ceiling interest rate of 5 per cent per year for savings of VND10 billion or more, up 1 percentage point. As for deposits from VND3 billion to less than VND10 billion, the interest rate is 4.9 per cent per year. The rate of 4.8 per cent per year is for deposits from VND300 million to less than VND3 billion. At Saigon-Hanoi Commercial Joint Stock Bank (SHB), the deposit interest rate for terms of less than one month has also increased to a maximum of 0.5 percentage point per year. The rate for deposits from one month to less than six months has also increased by 0.8-0.9 percentage point per year to range from 4.38-4.9 per cent per year. Many other banks, such as Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank (ACB), Vietnam Import-Export Commercial Joint Stock Bank (Eximbank), Bac A Commercial Joint Stock Bank (Bac A Bank), Viet Capital Commercial Joint Stock Bank (Viet Capital Bank) and Kien Long Commercial Joint Stock Bank (Kienlongbank), have also adjusted up the deposit interest rate for many terms, especially terms of less than six months. Meanwhile, large-sized State-owned banks in the Big 4 group, including Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV), Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (Vietcombank), Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Industry and Trade of Vietnam (VietinBank) and Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam (Agribank), have not yet made a new adjustment. Currently, the highest interest rates listed by these banks range from 5.6-5.8 per cent per year for online deposits and 5.6 per cent per year for over-the-counter deposits. Their interest rates for short terms under six months are at 3.1-3.4 per cent per year. Maybank Investment Banking Group (Maybank IBG) forecast after last week’s adjustment, the SBV would keep the deposit interest rate unchanged from now until the end of 2022. According to Maybank IBG, the SBV’s policy rate hike last week would not significantly affect the economic recovery. Maybank IBG maintains its GDP growth forecast of 8 per cent for Viet Nam for 2022 and 6 per cent for 2023, respectively.  VCCI proposes abolishing excise tax on gasoline The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) has proposed the Ministry of Finance consider abolishing the special consumption tax on gasoline to cushion the impact of the steep global fuel price rises. Tax reduction is a good solution, but eliminating the special consumption tax on gasoline should be considered a necessary measure to reduce the negative impact of global fuel price surges in the long term, said VCCI. Experts believed that it was not reasonal to impose a special consumption tax on gasoline. Gasoline is an essential consumer product and widely used in production and daily life, while this tax should only be levied on non-essential goods to discourage consumption, such as cigarettes, alcoholic beverages and luxury cars. Currently, fuel is subject to four taxes, namely import, environmental protection, special consumption and value added taxes. The special consumption tax on fuel is 10%. Previously, the Ministry of Finance asked for feedback on a draft resolution of the National Assembly on halving both the special consumption tax and the value added tax on fuel, receiving firm support from the VCCI. According to the draft resolution, the excise tax and value added tax would be reduced by 50% and 20-50%, respectively, based on the decision of the National Assembly and the actual conditions. The tax reduction period is expected to last six months from the effective date of the resolution. The Ministry of Finance estimated that state budget revenue would drop by VND7.5 trillion to VND12 trillion due to the reduction of the two fuel taxes in six months. Japanese firm to buy 2.1 million FTS shares Japan’s SBI Financial Services Co., a company related to Ueno Taro, who is a board member at FPT Securities JSC, has registered to buy 2.1 million FTS shares. The transaction will be conducted from September 29 to October 27, the local media reported. After the purchase, the Japanese firm will raise its ownership in FPT Securities, which trades its FTS shares on the Hochiminh Stock Exchange, to 22.51%, or 43.9 million shares. Each FTS share is priced at VND31,000, so SBI will spend some VND65.1 billion on the purchase. SBI, the largest shareholder of FTS, had bought some 1.2 million FTS shares between June 28 and July 12. In the first half of the year, FPT Securities JSC reported over VND578 billion in revenue, inching down 2% year-on-year, and VND365.5 billion in pre-tax profit, a year-on-year decrease of 15%. Hanoi holds trade fair to promote OCOP products A week-long event to introduce and sell goods under the ‘One Commune, One Product’ (OCOP) programme is taking place at the centre of culture, information and sports of Hanoi’s Thanh Tri district. OCOP goods are highly localised products, often food, that come from one small specific area. So far, Hanoi has recognised 1,649 OCOP goods, including four products rated five stars, 1,098 others rated four stars, and 534 rated three stars. They include 1,071 food, 35 beverage, 17 herbal, 492 handicraft, and 34 fabric and apparel products. The capital city is taking the lead nationwide in terms of the numbers of OCOP products and five-star OCOP products. The city houses 1,350 craft villages, accounting for the largest number of such villages in the country. These places are home to 47 out of 52 traditional crafts of Vietnam. Among them, there are 313 accredited by Hanoi People’s Committee as craft villages and traditional craft villages. The capital city, meanwhile, has over 9,900 agricultural and food products with QR code serving their traceability. Vietnam emerges as winner from era of deglobalisation UK media outlet the Economist has recently published an article highlighting huge advantages enjoyed by Vietnam in the era of deglobalisation. The article outlines that since 2000, Vietnamese GDP has grown at a faster rate than that of any other Asian country bar China, averaging 6.2% annually. It has lured major foreign firms in droves, starting with apparel makers such as Nike and Adidas seeking low-skilled labour, before eventually booming into electronics and higher-value goods which create better-paid jobs for more highly-skilled workers. In 2020, electronics made up 38% of the country’s goods exports, up from 14% of a far smaller total back in 2010. The Economist points out that the trade war between the US and China, which initially started in 2018 has been a factor behind this. In 2019 the country produced nearly half of the US$31 billion-worth of American imports that had moved from China to other low-cost Asian countries. Apple’s largest suppliers, Foxconn and Pegatron, which make Apple Watches, MacBooks, and other gadgets, are building big factories in Vietnam and look set to join the ranks of the country’s largest employers. Other major names include Dell and HP, with a focus on laptops, Google, with a focus on phones, and Microsoft, with a focus on gaming consoles. All of which could lead to stronger growth and make millions of Vietnamese people better off. Vietnam aims to become rich, with GDP per capita exceeding US$18,000 by 2045, up from the current US$2,800. It hopes to do this partly by moving away from cheap garments to complex electronics which require greater investment and more skilled labour, the article notes. Furthermore, the country is an enthusiastic member of over a dozen free-trade agreements, giving it easier access to scores of international markets. With the recent COVID-19 outbreak bought under control, the government has eased domestic travel restrictions and reopened all borders to tourism and trade exchanges. According to the article, Vietnam offers advantages in terms of geographical blessings, such as more than 3,000km of coastline, massive infrastructure spending on things such as new roads, and its electronics cluster operating profitably.  However, there is much to be done if Vietnamese factories are to move farther up the value chain, says the article. Whilst foreign firms would love to buy more parts locally, which could be faster and more convenient than sourcing them from just over the border, they usually fail to find what they seek. The article notes that Vietnam has many things working in its favour, including a young workforce. If Vietnam is to grow as rich as China, let alo...

Healthy Living And Mental Health Work Hand-In-Hand – Review https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/healthy-living-and-mental-health-work-hand-in-hand-review/ POLOKWANE – Fitness trainer and motivator Mthombeni Carin said healthy living means maintaining a healthy lifestyle and introducing new habits that will benefit you in the long run. Carin said a healthy lifestyle starts with a conscious decision which leads to small changes and developing habits such as eating healthier and being active. “There are many ways to describe fitness as it has a different meaning for every individual. It might mean being active on a daily basis for one person or being able to walk, swim or do chores without feeling fatigued for another,” she said. You might also want to read: Route to a more active you: Fitness questions answered Carin said eating healthy is paramount to the success of your fitness and this includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks in between. “By snacks, I mean healthy snacking. Water in-between meals is also very important.” She said one of the benefits that come with healthy living is positive thinking and satisfaction with seeing results because exercise releases ‘happy hormones’ such as dopamine and serotonin. “When you have a specific physical routine, you create order in your life and your way of thinking changes which leads to mental and physical benefits. It also creates discipline which is then transferred to other aspects of your life,” she said. Carin said there will be challenges and setbacks when starting a fitness journey but that doesn’t mean giving up. She offers fitness training and customized meal planning and can be contacted on 081 072 0620. For more breaking news follow us on Facebook Twitter Instagram or join our WhatsApp group

Youth Sports Sept. 28, 2022 – Coeur D’Alene Press https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/youth-sports-sept-28-2022-coeur-dalene-press/ BOWLING Sunset Bowling Center Week 2 Bumpers High Scratch Game Boys: Aiden Testa – 93; Jack Goss – 13 High Scratch Game Girls: Lylah Baheza – 46; Na Ne’ Reynoso – 39 Bantams High Scratch Game Boys: Luke Carr – 79; Luke Barkl – 62; Chevy Testa – 49 High Scratch Game Girls: Tori Graff – 58; Stasi Jepson – 43; Daylynn Quinn-McClellan – 42 Preps High Scratch Game Boys: Hunter McComb – 148; Nathan Cohen – 145; Brody Shands – 76 High Scratch Game Girls: Chloe McCliggott – 118; Samantha Glenwinkel – 85 Juniors High Scratch Game Boys: Gezus LaSarte – 258; Nathan Beardsall – 226; Dylan Bailey – 193 High Scratch Game Girls: Shannon Glenwinkel – 149; Tessa Howell – 144; Rosy Gallegos – 123 Other 200+ Games: Gezus LaSarte – 203 600+ Series: Gezus LaSarte – 639 SELECT SOCCER Thorns 2009 North Academy girls: The Thorns won 5-0 against the EW Surf at Plantes Ferry Park in Spokane Valley on Saturday. Single goals were scored by Olivia Smith and Anna Christman, and Kathryn Kovatch had a hat trick and also an assist. COEUR d’ALENE RECREATION Soccer 2nd/3rd GIRLS DIVISION Cannon Hill Industries – Emily Shotropa 4 goals, Natalie Gittel 2 goals, Finley Scott and Avery Kartchner 1 goal each. Idaho Forest Group – Cali Cross 1 goal. A.C.I. – Paisley Donnolo 1 goal. Idaho Forest Group – Rosalie Joy 1 goal. A.C.I. – Hayden Hays 4 goals, Paisley Donnolo 2 goals and Abigail Barajas 1 goal. 4TH/5TH GIRLS DIVISION Lakewood Animal Hospital – Devyn Wassink and Aubrey Boehm 1 goal each.. Precision Excavating Hailey Gittel 2 goals and Nikita Dechaine 1 goal. Intechtel – Evellyn Howard 6 goals. Precision Excavating – Hailey Gittel 3 goals. 2nd BOYS DIVISION Cannon Hill Industries – Dalton Ganske and Jack Beucler 1 goal each. Papa Murphys – Asher Crandell 1 goal. Intechtel – Ryder Elijah 2 goals, Levi Russu and Joshua Kitsak 1 goal each. Cannon Hill Industries – Angelo Brown 1 goal. 3RD BOYS DIVISION Medicine Man – John Meuth, Luke Bennett, Sawyer Baker, and Jonah Kilian 1 goal each. goal each. Pilgrims Market – Andrew Baker 4 goals Cd’A News – Parker Brown 6, Couredge Solmonson, Brennan Loewe, Tony Terraciano 1 goal each. Lake City Auto Care – Brody Messer 2 goals. 4TH BOYS DIVISION A.C.I. – Hunter McComb and Jaxon Spalding 2 goals and Lucas Gonzales 1 goal. Cannon Hill Industries – Noah Miller 1 goal. Carpet Warehouse – Timmy Shotropa 8 goals. 5TH BOYS DIVISION C.A.R.S. – Jacob Moon 3 goals, Hunter Bliesner and Leo Ervin 2 goals, Jude Young 1 goal. Idaho Forest Group – Flavius Kitsak 4 goals and Asher Belit 1 goal. Cd’A Press – Bradley Leggett 2 goals, Emmett Couillard 1 goal. Young Construction – Mason Munoz 3 goals, Miller Volland and Nyjah Viafranco 1 goal. Young Construction – Mason Harster 6 goals. Cd’A Press – Emanuel Vlad 2 goals, Bridger Fitzsimmons, Knox Bousquet, and Bradley Leggett 1 goal each. C.A.R.S. – Hunter Bliesner 2 goals. Idaho Forest Group – Max Shaw 3 goals and Flavius Kitsak and Asher Belit 1 goal each. 6TH COED DIVISION Reliable Towing – Brynlee Johnston, Rhaynne Shaw, William Gardner and Colin Maxey 1 goal. Alert Automotive – Nathan Shotropa 7, Matthew Green, Charlie Northrup, Carter Loewe 1 goal each. Supercut Manufacturing – Lillee Ward and Seviah Estes 1 goal. Integrated Personnel – Austin Hill 3, Mason Moore and Kailynn Doyle 1 goal each. Reliable Towing – Brynlee Johnston 2 goals and Malia Kuehu 1 goal. Alert Automotive – Nathan Shotropa 3 goals, Matthew Green 2 goals and Sawyer Deck 1 goal. Integrated Personnel – Zoey Moreno, Mason Moore, and Austin Hill 1 goal each. 7th/8th COED DIVISION Cd’A Foot & Ankle Surgery – Jamisen Williams 1 goal. Northwest Sweeping – Colton Slife 7 goals and Wyatt Hill 1 goal. Cannon Hill Industries – Chloe Crowley 2 goals and Wyatt Knott 1 goal. Northwest Sweeping – Rebecca Russu, Colton Slife, Wyatt Hill, Caleb Vlad 1 goal each. Cd’A Foot & Ankle Surgery – Zach Fadness 2 goals and Johnny Shotropa 1 goal. Ironman Foundation – Tanner Zastrow 3 goals, Darius Kitsak and Redick Lair 2 goals, Beckham Hayes, Killian Schreiber, and Marcus Russu 1 goal each. POST FALLS PARKS AND RECREATION Flag football Sept. 24 1st & 2nd Grade Division 7 Day Dental Smiles: Deegan Giovanardi 1 touchdown & 1 reception, Ryker Hold 1 reception & 1 deflag, Declan Hughes 1 touchdown & 3 deflags, Easton Karlgaard 1 touchdown 1 receptions & 1 interception, Jacob Schneider 1 deflag, Derek Valencia 2 deflag Lake City Accounts: Christopher McClafferty 1 touchdown 1 interception & 9 deflags, Bowen Quaale 2 deflags, Post Falls Auto Auction: Nash Jones 1 reception & 1 delfag, Dante Leonard 1 deflag, Ayden Schertz 2 touchdowns 2 receptions & 2 deflags, Beau Zinn 1 touchdown & 5 deflags U-Haul: Bronson De Oro 1 deflag, Gauge Francis 3 touchdowns 1 interception & 4 deflags, Brooks Jimerson 1 interception & 2 deflags, Sawyer Mctaggart 2 2-pt PAT & 4 deflags, Nolan Steinbach 4 deflags Scores 7 Day Dental Smiles – 18, Post Falls Auto Auction – 18 Lake City Accounts – 6, U-Haul – 22 3rd & 4th Grade Division Jordan Sales & Service: Zane Allen 1 touchdown 2 interceptions & 2 deflags, Konor Brendmoen 1 reception 1 deflag, Cameron Carver 1touchdown, Kallen Hills 1 touchdown 2-2pt. PATs, Hunter Stan 1 touchdown 1 safety & 4 deflags, Gage Vinyard 1 deflag Platos Closet: None submitted Woodland Family Dental: Blake Cahill 2 deflags, Noah Carpenter 1-1pt. PAT, Jase Carver 2 deflags, Austin Groom 1 Touchdown, Carson Hornberger 1 deflag, Easton Hornberger 2 deflags, Jesse Martin 2 deflags, Kai Ronan 2 receptions & 1 deflag, Rayder Spencer 2 receptions & 1 deflag Young Construction Group of Idaho: Tyzaiah Blodgett 1 touchdown 1-2pt. PAT & 1 deflag, Milo Cagner 1 touchdown & 1 interception, Wyatt Cagner 1 deflag, Nixon Neer 2 deflags, Alex Nicholson 1 touchdown 1 reception 1 interception & 1 deflag, Grayson Rose 3 deflags, Logan Strasser 1-2pt. PAT, Taylin Wynn 1-2pt. PAT & 1 deflag Scores Plato’s Closet – 0, Young Construction Group of Idaho Inc. – 24 Jordan Sales & Service – 28, Woodland Family Dental – 6 5th & 6th Grade Division Fairway Floors: Roman Anderson 1 reception & 2 deflags, Gunner Brown 1 touchdown 3 reception & 3 deflags, Brennan Burton 1 touchdown 2 receptions 1 interception & 3 deflags, Baylor Gibbs 1-2pt. PATs & 3 deflags, Sylas Saris 1 deflag, David Schmitz 1 interception & 1 deflag Mountain America Credit Union: Ashton Appel 1 interception, Christian Arreola 1 interception & 2 deflags, Kessler Bentcik 1 deflag, Maximus Gill 1 touchdown 1-1pt PAT 1-2pt. PAT & 1 interception, Blake Karlgaard 1 touchdown & 1-2pt. PAT, Kason Lenz 1 interception& 1 deflag, Callie Moscone 4 deflags, John Redding 3 touchdowns 1 safety 1-2pt PAT & 4 deflags Peach Orthodontics: Wyatt Brendmoen 1 deflag, Tony Caliger 1 deflag, Brayden Hixson 1 interception & 2 deflags, Gavin Kenner 2 deflags, Scores Mountain America Credit Union – 36, Peach Orthodontics – 0 Mountain America Credit Union – 11, Fairway Floors – 14 Soccer U14s 11 Opponent 1 Animal Blood Bank of The Inland Northwest – Liam Breyer 1 11 Opponent 1 Tekton Construction – Billy Strange 1 6 The Love Factor – Paden Armstrong 1, Amos Hunter 2, Alex Williams 3 2 Opponent 0 H & I Woodcraft 6 Opponent U11s 5 Post Falls Brewing – Eli Martin 1, Josiah Rice 1, Kaesley Riffel 1, Ryan Hudson 1, Rakai Sullivan 1 2 U-Haul – Abram Morgan 1, Bella Permenter 6 Peach Orthodontics – Lance Breyer 3, Ara Glinski 2, Max Glinski 1 3 Air One Equipment Rental – Margaret Bumb 1, Connor Pecor 1, Jathaniel Whitmire 1 4 Stateline Speedway – Peyton Alexander 1, Kiera Dolan 1, Emma Henke 1, Isabelle Heath 1, Jason Kuplack 5, Dustin Lundwall 2 0 Fox Trailers – 6 Specialty Forrest Products – Jackson Cameron 1, Fisher Hite 1, Reese Scarcello 2, Liam White 2 1 U-Haul – Christopher Pritchard 1 U8s 5 North Idaho Insurance Agency – Annabella Bazan 2, Isabelle Breyer 2, Kallie Perkins 1 3 Pacific Golf and Turf – Johsua Hass 1, Zander Whitmire 2 0 Woodland Family Dental – 4 Saturday Night Inc. – Julian Connery 2, Jameson McNabb 1, Leo Treat 1 3 Blue Dog RV – Asher Grant 3 0 James, Vernon & Weeks, P.A. – 1 All Terrain Lawncare – Ryker Weeks 1 0 Post Falls Taco Bell – 0 Woodland Family Dental – 5 The English Inspector– Sebastian Enfield 2, Cole Johnson 1, Adam Populus 1, Leo Symons 1 Mini 6’s 1 Brumbach Dentistry – Jemma Larsen 1 6 Stateline Speedway – Landyn Alexander 3, Cian Andrus 1, Anabel Eifler 1, Reed Marine 1 10 Dairy Queen Post Falls – James Biddle 4, Ethan Freeman 4, Maddie Hazelton 1, Amaryl Ryan 1 0 James, Vernon & Weeks, P.A. – 1 All Terrain Lawncare – Landon Robinson 1 River City Dentistry – 8 Silver Lake Mall – Braiden Beck 3, Natalie Cahill 1, Evan Populus 2, Peyton Shock 2 0 Young Construction Group of Idaho – Micro 5’s 3 Bloom Coaching – Callum Hughes 3 9 River City Dentistry – Eli Gaston 6, Paige Yancy 3 1 Century Publishing – Evelyn Hall 1 10 Idaho Fence Company – Wyatt Besser 3, Sawyer Kiser 5, Kevin Sahm 2 4 Emergency Pet Care – Jack Ginman 3, Zariah Gray 1 3 North Idaho Insurance Agency – Anaya Arroyo 1, Logan Dunne 1, Maximus Stover 1 6 Silver Lake Mall – Audrey Abernathy 3, Grace Looney 3 4 Young Construction Group of Idaho – Logan Martin 1, Brody McDowell 2, Owen Shafer 1 SPIRIT LAKE PARKS AND REC Soccer Week of Sept. 20 5&6s: Little Stinkers Septic Service v Saturday Night, Inc. 4-1; scoring for L.S.S.S. were Dominick Campbell 1, Kian Aga 1, and Layla Moore 2. Scoring for S.N. Inc. was Carson Guthrie. Gritty Land Development v Paronteau Junk Removal 3-2; scoring for G.L.D. were Leann Gregory 2, and Phoebe Reeves 1. Scoring for P.J.R. were Savannah Duprey 1, and Paisley Stapleton 1. Gritty Land Development v Little Stinker Septic Service 4-3; scoring for G.L.D. were LeAnn Gregory 3, and Hadley Eleazer 1. Scoring for Little Stinker w...

Walmart Makes Its First Move Into The Metaverse With Virtual Worlds On Roblox – The Dallas Morning News https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/walmart-makes-its-first-move-into-the-metaverse-with-virtual-worlds-on-roblox-the-dallas-morning-news/ By Bloomberg Wire 5:59 AM on Sep 28, 2022 CDT Walmart Inc. has made its first move into the metaverse. The retailer unveiled two immersive experiences Monday on Roblox Corp.’s virtual platform. Walmart Land features fashion, beauty and entertainment items, while Walmart’s Universe of Play showcases toys. Walmart follows companies from Nike Inc. to VF Corp. in a bid to get consumers’ attention via virtual universes, where elements of video conferencing, gaming, social media and e-commerce blend together. Roblox has a community of more than 52 million daily users, and many of them are young people who are particularly valuable targets for corporate powerhouses. Related:As Match dips into the metaverse, it’s also eyeing more human interaction and fewer algorithms “This is the first major initiative that we have in the metaverse,” William White, Walmart’s chief marketing officer, said in an interview. “This is another step for us in reaching our customers in unexpected ways.” Walmart Land created a virtual store where Roblox users can use badges and coins earned on the platform to buy merchandise for their avatars. A “physics-defying Ferris wheel” provides a bird’s-eye view of the virtual world, plus unlockable tokens and badges that can be earned in games and competitions. Walmart launched Walmart Land and Universe of Play on Monday.(Walmart) Walmart Land initially features an experience similar to a music festival along with a fashion-oriented “House of Style” that includes a virtual dressing room and an oversized cosmetics obstacle course. In October, it will add a motion-capture concert with performances from singers such as Madison Beer and Kane Brown. Universe of Play is designed to let Roblox users explore toy worlds and earn coins for virtual goods. It offers games featuring products and characters from Jurassic World, Paw Patrol and other entertainment brands. Since debuting last year, Nikeland has gotten about 21 million visits while VF’s Vans World has had around 81 million. White will be watching the results in Walmart’s virtual worlds as the company hones its strategy in the metaverse and tries to entice users to move beyond avatars and shop at Walmart’s stores and website. “It will be a great opportunity for us to build relevance, build cultural conversation and to develop a community with Gen Z and our younger audiences,” he said. “All these things lend themselves to more brand equity.” Brendan Case, Bloomberg Walmart’s Electric Island includes an interactive piano walkway, a dance challenge, a Netflix trivia experience featuring Noah Schnapp and a DJ booth where users can learn to mix different beats.(Walmart)

Best Prime Day Laptop Deals: What To Expect From The Second Sale – Digital Trends https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/best-prime-day-laptop-deals-what-to-expect-from-the-second-sale-digital-trends/ Prime Day has come and gone and Black Friday hasn’t quite reached us yet, and if you’re in the market for one of the best laptops you may be wondering when you can catch a major discount. As it turns out, Amazon has confirmed it will be holding a second major shopping event in 2022. The Prime Early Access Sale will be taking place on October 10 and October 11, and it will be a great opportunity for anyone who missed out on Prime Day deals to grab a new laptop at a great price. This event will basically be a second version of the popular Prime Day shopping event, with Amazon discounting prices on some of the best laptop brands a near certainty. This event will precede November’s Black Friday sales by more than a month, and will make a great opportunity to get a head start on your holiday shopping. In fact, we’re already starting to get a good idea of what to expect with this second Prime Day event, and we’ve rounded up some of the best early Prime Day laptop deals available. Today’s Best Prime Day Laptop Deals HP Chromebook 11.6 — $98, was $225 There are some absolute bargains to be found in the Prime Day Laptop Deals. The best Chromebooks don’t have to cost a fortune if you know exactly what you want from one, especially if you look for Prime Day Chromebook deals. That’s demonstrated by the HP 11.6-inch Chromebook. It’s an attractive option for anyone looking for one of the best Chromebooks for students thanks to being so cheap, while still offering what you need. It has all the basics anyone could require while you work on the move. Utilizing an 11.6-inch screen means that it’s very small and easy to carry around with you. That screen still offers an HD resolution while also including antiglare properties. While 220 nits may not be exceptional for pricier laptops, it’s fairly reasonable in this price range. Under the hood, you get an AMD A4 processor, along with 4GB of memory. Again, it’s low-end stuff, but Chromebooks use ChromeOS, which is very undemanding. The idea of ChromeOS is that you work via the cloud. Everything you save is kept on the cloud while even the apps you use are cloud-based, such as the wealth of Google apps out there. That also explains why the HP 11.6-inch Chromebook offers 32GB of eMMC storage. That would be low for a Windows-based system, but for a Chromebook, it’s all you need. It also has integrated AMD Radeon R4 graphics, but it’s not like you’ll be doing any gaming on this system. However, you will be able to stream shows and movies via your favorite streaming services. Perhaps the most distinctive part of the HP 11.6-inch Chromebook is its build quality. It’s built to last. This Chromebook can survive a fall off a desk from up to four feet (so, higher than most desks). It can also withstand a splash from a drink or if someone tugs its power cord too hard. It can even resist attempts to remove keys, plus it has metal-reinforced corners. It’s these features that make it particularly well-suited for younger students who are just starting out with a computer of their own. Throw in long battery life and fast recharging, and the HP 11.6-inch Chromebook is a suitably frustration-free setup for everyone. HP Laptop 14 — $280, was $430 The HP 14-inch laptop keeps things simple and straightforward, making it an ideal choice from the Prime Day Laptop Deals if you need a reliable Windows laptop without spending a fortune. That’s kind of what you would expect to see from one of the best laptop brands, but it’s nice to see HP offer decent quality at this price range. While it won’t rival the best 14-inch laptops, it’s still more than good enough for anyone on a budget, especially as it comes with Windows 11 Home already installed. For your money, you get an AMD 3020e processor with AMD Radeon graphics included. This is no gaming machine, but it means you’ll have reasonable performance for working on the move. Alongside that, you get 8GB of memory, which is just the right amount for being productive in this price range. Also, there’s 128GB of SSD storage, which means you have plenty of room to store all your files and apps. SSD-based storage also means that the HP 14-inch laptop is able to boot up and load apps or files much quicker than a regular hard drive. The HP 14-inch laptop has all those finer details covered too. For instance, its 14-inch screen is surrounded by a 6.5mm micro-edge bezel so you can spend more time looking at the screen than ugly bezels. It also means the HP 14-inch laptop is thinner and lighter than one would expect. You also get long-lasting battery life so you can stay connected all day. To back it up, there’s also HP Fast Charge technology that means it recharges superfast when needed. Even the touchpad has been well-designed with multitouch support ensuring you can work speedily. Other useful details include a multi-format SD media card reader for plugging in memory cards, while there’s also a HP True Vision 720p HD camera with an integrated dual-array digital microphone. The HP 14-inch laptop even tosses in one USB-C port alongside two USB-A ports and an HDMI connection so you have plenty of flexibility in terms of what you hook up to it. It’s well-suited to anyone looking for a productivity-focused device. Apple MacBook Air M1 — $850, was $999 The Apple MacBook Air M1 is a delight to use, particularly if you also own other Apple devices. Connecting well with your iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and other Apple gadgets, the MacBook Air might seem expensive on the surface but it’s impressively powerful. That’s thanks to Apple’s own M1 chip, which offers phenomenal performance alongside exceptional battery life. The processor has eight cores and is up to 3.5 times faster than the previous-gen Intel CPUs. Despite having so much power, it still has a battery life of up to 18 hours so you can bring it along on a long day and it’ll keep going. In addition, 8GB of memory means it’s capable of multitasking at speed, and everything is designed to work well with MacOS. It also has a gorgeous looking 13.3-inch Retina display. Text is sharp and clear, while colors are bright and vibrant. A thermally efficient yet completely fanless design means that you don’t even have to worry about a constant fan noise, as the MacBook’s M1 CPU stays cool and silent at all times. Additional features include a 256GB SSD, which is plenty of room to store your most important files. It also has a FaceTime HD camera for video conferencing and taking FaceTime calls. Touch ID support lets you use your finger to log in rather than constantly having to type passwords. The backlit Magic Keyboard also looks great, and is particularly useful when working in the evening. Simply put, the MacBook Air M1 is a true delight to use and a great choice for Apple fans. With many productivity apps ready to use right out of the box, it’s ideal for students an professionals alike. Should you shop these Prime Day laptop deals or wait until Black Friday? Black Friday is an annual event that sees almost every retailer in existence discounting much of their inventories to kick off the holiday shopping season. This makes it, generally speaking, the best time of the year to find major discounts on popular products, as many retailers use the event to clear out inventory. In fact, Black Friday often sees laptops selling out completely, with little availability and longer delivery windows throughout the shopping season. With it being such a popular event, and with it taking place immediately after Thanksgiving, it’s a great time to grab a discount on a laptop. However, this second Prime Day event by Amazon presents an unexpected opportunity in the regular holiday shopping strategy. It will be taking place more than a month before Black Friday, and the best time to get a deal is while one is looking you in the eye. You can purchase a laptop at this second Prime Day event with zero risk, as the event is close enough to Black Friday that your return window will still be open when Black Friday rolls around. This means you can grab a laptop deal during this second Prime Day event if you see one you like, and if a better deal turns up come Black Friday, you can grab it and still return the previous purchase. It’s best to get your holiday shopping done early to guarantee a deal and to guarantee you don’t miss out on the laptop you have your eye on. There will be a lot of opportunity to land one of the best laptops or one of the best Chromebooks. So whether you feel a better deal awaits you on Black Friday or not, grab a new laptop at this second Prime Day event if you see one at a price that works for you. Editors’ Recommendations Dell’s best work-from-home laptop is over $600 cheaper today Best wireless mouse deals for September 2022 Grab this cheap printer deal from HP and get 6 months of free ink Get this 17-inch HP laptop with Windows 11 for $320 today Best Chromebook deals for September 2022

OpenSea NFT Marketplace Adds Support For Optimism – OP Token Price Forecast – Cryptonews https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/opensea-nft-marketplace-adds-support-for-optimism-op-token-price-forecast-cryptonews/ Source: Optimism Leading non-fungible token (NFT) marketplace OpenSea has launched support for the Optimism blockchain, enabling the integration of popular collections such as Apetimism, Bored Town, MotorHeadz, and OptiChads within the platform. “You can now buy and sell your favorite Optimism NFTs on @opensea. The best part: knowing OpenSea activity on Optimism funds a sustainable future for Ethereum,” the blockchain tweeted. “Having the largest NFT marketplace on Optimism is going to be absolutely massive for Optimism’s creators, collectors, and NFT” fans. Optimism was built as a scalable L2 blockchain by Ethereum developers. The blockchain’s creators claim “Optimism takes everything you love about Ethereum and turbocharges it. Ethereum tooling ‘just works’ on every level of the stack. Transactions are cheap and nearly instant.” Owing to the latest development, OpenSea is adding support to the sixth blockchain, with Ethereum, Solana, Polygon, Klaytn, and Arbitrum already accommodated by the platform.  As of 08:00 a.m. UTC, some 100 Optimism-based NFT collections were available for purchase at OpenSea. The largest trading volume was reported by Early Optimists, at ETH 534, Optimistic Explorer, with ETH 175, and OP Orcas, at ETH 76, respectively, according to data released by the marketplace. “We encourage the @optimismFND community to search for their favorite newly listed Optimism collections and reach out to founders to get @openrarity integration and collection offers enabled!” OpenSea said in a tweet. Prior to the expansion, a lion’s share of Optimism NFT trade had taken place within Quix, a marketplace dedicated to the blockchain.  As of 08:20 a.m. UTC, the blockchain’s native Optimism (OP) token traded at roughly $0.88, down 9.13% over a 24-hour period, per CoinMarketCap.com data. This said, an analysis by industry site CoinCodex.com suggests that “the value of Optimism is predicted to rise by 7.00% and reach $0.937831 by October 3, 2022.”

Steep Sell-Offs In U.S. Stocks Have Started To Spread Worlwide – NPR https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/steep-sell-offs-in-u-s-stocks-have-started-to-spread-worlwide-npr/ Steep sell-offs in U.S. stocks have started to spread worlwide The volatility in U.S. markets is rocking stock, bond and currency trading in other countries. Many blame the Federal Reserve for the wild swings. September 28, 20225:14 AM ET Steep sell-offs in U.S. stocks have started to spread worlwide Download Embed iframe src="https://www.npr.org/player/embed/1125525812/1125525813" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" title="NPR embedded audio player" The volatility in U.S. markets is rocking stock, bond and currency trading in other countries. Many blame the Federal Reserve for the wild swings.