Anna Garraway

DeSantis, Who Opposed Hurricane Sandy Relief, Now Desperate For Biden’s Aid As Ian Ravages Florida – Salon https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/desantis-who-opposed-hurricane-sandy-relief-now-desperate-for-bidens-aid-as-ian-ravages-florida-salon/ On his second day in Congress, Ron DeSantis voted against a federal relief package for New York and New Jersey in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, but almost a decade later, the Florida governor’s response to Hurricane Ian hitting his home state is much different.  DeSantis asked President Biden on Wednesday to approve a major disaster declaration for 67 counties impacted by Hurricane Ian and to cover 100% of the costs of debris removal and emergency protective measures for the first 60 days after the hurricane.  Sandy, which hit the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states in late 2012, killed over 100 Americans, destroyed about 300 homes, and left thousands of people without access to food, drinking water and power.  The House passed a bill providing $9.7 billion in flood insurance aid for Hurricane Sandy victims. DeSantis joined the 67 Republicans who voted against the measure. “I sympathize with the victims of Hurricane Sandy and believe that those who purchased flood insurance should have their claims paid. At the same time, allowing the program to increase its debt by another $9.7 billion with no plan to offset the spending with cuts elsewhere is not fiscally responsible,” DeSantis said in a statement. But now, the governor of Florida, where Ian has been categorized as one of the most powerful storms in U.S. history, has a much different response. “When people are fighting for their lives, when their whole livelihood is at stake, when they’ve lost everything — if you can’t put politics aside for that, then you’re just not going to be able to,” DeSantis told Tucker Carlson on Wednesday. “So, I’ll work with anybody who wants to help the people of Southwest Florida and throughout our state.” Hurricane Ian made landfall near Cayo Costa as a Category 4 storm on Wednesday with winds of 155 miles per hour – only seven miles per hour slower than a Category 5. More than 2.5 million people across Florida were left without power and experienced widespread flooding. Many remained trapped in their homes as the hurricane’s storm surge remained as high as 18 feet in some areas. President Joe Biden said Ian could be the “deadliest hurricane in Florida’s history,” on Thursday.  He also approved a Florida Disaster Declaration, which would free up federal resources for the state, providing federal funds and offering assistance for temporary housing and home repair. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. DeSantis, who voted against more than one Sandy-related bill — voting against a 2013 bill to “improve and streamline disaster assistance for Hurricane Sandy — said he was “thankful” for the Biden administration’s efforts so far. But his actions haven’t been forgotten by others. “Just a reminder to New York…Marco Rubio and Ron DeSantis (who was in Congress at the time) voted against aid for Hurricane Sandy,” New York State Assembly member Yuh-Line Niou tweeted on Wednesday. “But because we are New York, we care about everyone. Even when they don’t care about us.” Pam Keith, a former Democratic candidate for Congress, also tweeted “Dear America:  DO NOT send money to a Ron DeSantis controlled hurricane ‘relief’ fund,” suggesting the money be sent to family, the Red Cross, or World Central Kitchen since DeSantis “play[s] favorites” and “uses every component of government resources to harm anyone he perceives as a foe.” DeSantis, who has been a harsh critic of Biden’s immigration and COVID-19 policies, appears to have temporarily put politics aside to help Floridians. After his most recent stunt of flying 48 migrants from San Antonio in Texas’ Bexar County to Martha’s Vineyard, DeSantis promised that the next plane of immigrants may land near Biden’s summer vacation home in Delaware. But since then, the two have spoken “four or five” times about Hurricane Ian, with Biden dismissing their political differences. “My message to the people of Florida and to the country is, it’s at times like this America comes together,” the president said. “We’re gonna pull together as one team, as one America.”

Carnival Is Zeroing In On First-Time Cruisers – Travel Weekly https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/carnival-is-zeroing-in-on-first-time-cruisers-travel-weekly/ Carnival Corp. is beefing up advertising spending and zeroing in on new cruisers as it gears up for the 2023 Wave season, executives said on a call with investors Friday.  Prior to the pandemic, about one-third of Carnival Corp. guests had been first-time cruisers, with advertising and word of mouth as the biggest levers to attract those guests, said Josh Weinstein, Carnival Corp.’s CEO. Although the company is now carrying a higher proportion of past guests, he said Carnival Corp. is seeing improving trends for booking new cruisers and “will increase awareness and actively target those new recruits.”  Related: Cassidy Gifford named godmother of the Carnival Celebration Between the company’s nine brands, Carnival Corp. carried more guests in this year’s third quarter than it had in all of 2021, said Weinstein. Occupancy across the brands was 84% in the quarter, up from 69% in Q2. In August, occupancy reached 90%.  A passenger volume increase bodes well for past guests to share their experiences by word of mouth, he said.  “We have been building back our army of advocates who leave ships spreading the word about the unparalleled vacation experiences we build every day in and day out,” Weinstein said. The company saw a meaningful acceleration in booking volume in August after announcing it would drop pre-voyage Covid testing and vaccination requirements. That’s a trend Royal Caribbean Group and travel agents also reported. In Carnival Corp.’s case, booking volume is now running “considerably higher” than in 2019.   Carnival Corp. made a decision to curtail its advertising spending during the pandemic. But when the company did advertise, ads were targeted at loyal guests. Up until last March, Carnival Corp. spent less money on advertising over the previous two years of the pandemic than it had in all of 2019.  This year, the company has spent more money on advertising in Q2 and Q3 than had in all of 2019, said Weinstein.  This higher advertising spending is meant to drive revenue for 2023 as the company plans for a more traditional Wave season in the first three months of the year.  “We have volume, but we want to get volume plus price and fill the ships at good pricing, and we need to be doing more to accomplish that,” he said. “It’s not just for the moment and filling the ship for the next quarter. It’s setting the groundwork for awareness and consideration, and ultimately making that booking decision [over the next two-and-a-half years],” he said. Cumulative advanced bookings for Q4 are below historical ranges at lower prices, much of that due to future cruise credits. Pricing for 2023 booked business is at “considerably” higher levels than in 2019, with bookings slightly above historical ranges, said David Bernstein, Carnival Corp.’s CFO. Noting that booking volume and prices for Q4 are below historical ranges but looking up for 2023, Truist Securities analyst Patrick Scholes said Carnival’s outlook is improving but “painfully slowly.”

West Rejects Putin’s Claim It Sabotaged Baltic Gas Pipelines – 69News WFMZ-TV https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/west-rejects-putins-claim-it-sabotaged-baltic-gas-pipelines-69news-wfmz-tv/ COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday accused the West of sabotaging Russia-built natural gas pipelines under the Baltic Sea to Germany, a charge vehemently denied by the United States and its allies. Nordic nations said the undersea blasts that damaged the pipelines this week and have led to huge methane leaks involved several hundred pounds of explosives. The claim by Putin came ahead of an emergency meeting Friday at the U.N. Security Council in New York on the attacks on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, and as Norwegian researchers published a map projecting that a huge plume of methane from the damaged pipelines will travel over large swaths of the Nordic region. Speaking Friday in Moscow at a ceremony to annex four regions of Ukraine into Russia, Putin claimed that “Anglo-Saxons” in the West have turned from imposing sanctions on Russia to “terror attacks,” sabotaging the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines in what he described as an attempt to “destroy the European energy infrastructure.” He added that “those who profit from it have done it,” without naming a specific country. In Washington, U.S. President Joe Biden dismissed Putin’s pipeline claims as outlandish. “It was a deliberate act of sabotage. And now the Russians are pumping out disinformation and lies. We will work with our allies to get to the bottom (of) precisely what happened,” Biden promised, adding that divers would be sent down to inspect the pipelines. “Just don’t listen to what Putin’s saying. What he’s saying we know is not true.” U.S. officials said the Putin claim was trying to shift attention from his annexation Friday of parts of Ukraine. “We’re not going to let Russia’s disinformation distract us or the world from its transparently fraudulent attempt to annex sovereign Ukrainian territory,” White House National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said Friday. Moscow says it wants a thorough international probe to assess the damage to the pipelines, which were filled with gas but not supplying it to Europe. Putin’s spokesman has said “it looks like a terror attack, probably conducted on a state level.” European nations, which have been reeling under soaring energy prices caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, have noted that it is Russia, not Europe, that benefits from chaos in the energy markets and spiking prices for energy. The U.S. has long opposed to the two pipelines and had repeatedly urged Germany to halt them, saying they increased Europe’s energy dependence on Russia and decreased its security. Since the war in Ukraine began in February, Russia has cut back supplies of natural gas sent to Europe to heat homes, generate electricity and run factories. European leaders have accused Putin of using “energy blackmail” to divide them in their strong support for Ukraine. Russia stopped gas flows through the 1,224-kilometer (760-mile) long Nord Stream 1 earlier this month, blaming technical problems, while the parallel Nord Stream 2 pipeline had never opened. Denmark and Sweden, meanwhile, said Friday that the explosions that rocked the Baltic Sea ahead of the huge methane leaks from the pipelines “probably corresponded to an explosive load of several hundred kilos (pounds).” The leaks occurred in international waters and ”have caused plumes of gas rising to the surface,” the two Scandinavian countries wrote in a letter to the United Nations. NATO has warned it would retaliate for any attacks on the critical infrastructure of its 30 member countries and joined other Western officials in citing sabotage as the likely cause of damage. Denmark is a NATO member, and Sweden is in the process of joining the military alliance. Both say the pipelines were deliberately attacked. At the U.N., Russia is a permanent member of the Security Council while neither Sweden or Denmark will be represented at the meeting Friday as they are not members. The Integrated Carbon Observation System, a European research alliance, said “an enormous amount of methane gas has been released into the atmosphere” from the damaged pipelines, about the amount of a whole year’s methane emissions for a city the size of Paris or a country like Denmark. “We assume the wind on the leak area blew the methane emissions north to the Finnish archipelago, then (the emissions) bend toward Sweden and Norway,” said Stephen Platt, a professor with the Norwegian Institute for Air Research, part of the group. The data was gathered from ground-based observations in Sweden, Norway, and Finland. Experts say these methane levels aren’t dangerous to public health but are a potent source of global warming. The suspected sabotage has produced two methane leaks off Sweden, including a large one above Nord Stream 1 and a smaller one above Nord Stream 2, and two leaks off Denmark. The Nord Stream 2 leak “has diminished, but is still ongoing,” the Swedish coast guard said, increasing its warnings for ships to stay 7 nautical miles (13 kilometers, 8 miles) from the blast areas. Nordic seismologists recorded explosions preceding the leaks. A first explosion was recorded early Monday southeast of the Danish island of Bornholm. A second, stronger blast northeast of the island hit that night and was equivalent to a magnitude-2.3 earthquake. Denmark and Sweden also said they were worried about the blasts’ “possible impact on the maritime life in the Baltic Sea.” Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said she would travel to London to discuss the gas leaks with British Prime Minister Liz Truss. She then will travel to Brussels to raise the issue with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and European Council President Charles Michel. The attacks on the pipelines have prompted energy companies and European governments to beef up security around energy infrastructure. The fear of further damage to Europe’s energy infrastructure has added pressure on natural gas prices, which are already high and have caused widespread economic pain across the continent. Authorities in Norway, a major oil and gas producer, have reported at least six drone sightings near offshore installations in the North Sea, prompting the Petroleum Safety Authority Norway to “urge increased vigilance.” Danish newspaper Ekstra Bladet said a drone was spotted Wednesday near a Danish offshore oil and gas installation in the North Sea. Sweden has also stepped up security around its three nuclear power plants. Follow all AP stories about climate change issues at https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment and stories about the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine. This story has been corrected to show that gas was not flowing now to Europe through the Nord Stream 1 or 2 pipelines. Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Experts Have Beef With Study Linking Depression And Vegetarian Diet – Healthline https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/experts-have-beef-with-study-linking-depression-and-vegetarian-diet-healthline/ Health experts raise questions about new research that suggests vegans and vegetarians experience depressive episodes twice as often as meat-eaters. Vertikala/Stocksy A new study has found a link between meatless diets and depressive episodes. People who did not eat meat were depressed about two times as often. It was not possible to determine whether this was due to nutritional deficiencies. Nutritionists say certain nutrients may be more difficult to obtain on a meatless diet. However, meatless diets can be nutritionally adequate with good planning. According to a new study published this month in the Journal of Affective Disorders, vegetarians experienced depressive episodes twice as often as those who ate meat. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics explains that vegetarianism is defined in various ways, with some people opting to still consume dairy and/or eggs. However, the common thread in all forms of vegetarianism is the avoidance of meat. Vegans, on the other hand, do not eat any animal products at all, including honey. There are many reasons that people choose to eat a meatless diet, including ethical considerations, concern for the environment, religious beliefs, and health benefits. The survey looked at 14,216 people in Brazil between the ages of 35 to 74. A food frequency questionnaire was used to determine whether people followed a meatless diet. A diagnostic tool called the Clinical Interview Schedule-Revised (CIS-R) was used to determine whether people had episodes of depression. The researchers found, upon analysis of the data, that meatless diets were associated with twice the frequency of depressive episodes. Further, this association was independent of socioeconomic factors as well as lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol intake, physical activity levels, and body mass index (BMI). The exact reason for these findings is unclear. Mary Mosquera-Cochran, a registered dietitian at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center who was not a part of the study, said that due to the way the study was designed — analyzing data rather than conducting a controlled experiment — it can’t be concluded whether a meatless diet actually does cause depression. “The researchers found that diet quality was somewhat associated with higher rates of depression, but it did not fully explain the association,” said Cochran. She further explained that the researchers hypothesized that this link might exist because people who are depressed are more likely to try dietary changes (like cutting out meat, for example) because they are hoping to feel better. Cochran said that the study was done on Brazilian citizens, so it also may not apply to other populations. She additionally pointed out the fact that it was only a very small percentage of people in the sample studied were actually vegetarians — 82 people out of around 14,000 total. “The authors note that it’s currently estimated that 5-14% of Brazilians currently follow a vegetarian style diet, so this sample may not be reflective of all vegetarians in Brazil either,” said Cochran. Though the authors also note that they adjusted for factors like protein and micronutrient intake, concluding that they believe “nutrient deficiencies do not explain this association,” other experts disagree. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics spokesperson Monique Richard, said meatless diets and depression could be linked for a variety of reasons, with one being nutrient deficiencies. “Whenever an individual excludes an entire food group, in this case, protein and fat sources, and does not replace it with equally nutritionally-adequate options, it will affect a variety of systemic and physiological functions such as cognitive health,” she said, noting that it is important to look deeper into the dietary patterns of these individuals to learn whether this might have been the case. “If an individual does not have an adequate intake of nutrients such as B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein, certain enzymes and proteins may be compromised, altering specific pathways in the body,” said Richard. “This could affect mood, anxiety, memory, perceived stress, sleep, etc.” As an example, she cites the amino acid tryptophan, which is needed to make serotonin, an important neurotransmitter that has been linked to mood disorders like depression. Tryptophan is found in meat as well as oats, nuts, and seeds, explained Richard. But it’s important that people are educated on what foods contain it and how to consume enough to meet their own personal needs. “Other factors that would be important to assess would be if the person felt isolated or disconnected from others related to their dietary choice,” said Richard. “Is there a personal, religious, or moral consideration for the choice that may also be contributing to these feelings and state of mind?” Dr. Mary-Jon Ludy, Chair of the Department of Public and Allied Health and Associate Professor of Food and Nutrition at Bowling Green State University, advised that “[w]ith or without meat, it is important to follow a healthy, high quality eating pattern that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.” “Eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods as well as limiting added sugars, solid fats, and sodium is key,” she said. According to Samantha Coogan, Program Director of the Didactic Program in Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the main vitamins and minerals of concern when it comes to depression are the B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, and selenium. Vitamin B12, in particular, is only found in animal products, said Coogan. However, it, along with other B complex vitamins, are responsible for mood regulation and brain function. “B vitamins can be found in fortified breakfast cereals, and B12 in fish, eggs, meat, and milk products,” she said. Additionally, most people who don’t eat meat will need to take a B12 supplement. She further notes that a B complex supplement may be a better option since you’ll get the amount of B12 that you need along with the other B vitamins. “Zinc may play a role in endocrine pathways that may lead to increased levels of cortisol, and the regulation of neurotransmission as a potential mechanism of action, so a deficiency could disrupt usual neurotransmitter firing/signaling to other areas of the body, such as elevating the expression of the hippocampus and decreasing cortisol,” explained Coogan. She noted that zinc is mainly found in red meat, crab, and oysters, making it difficult for a vegan or vegetarian to get enough. However, it can also be found in nuts, whole grains, fortified cereals, and dairy products. Coogan further explained that magnesium is responsible for the activation of more than 300 enzyme systems that play important roles in brain function. “Low magnesium can lead to inflammation, dysregulation of oxidative pathways possibly inducing oxidative stress, and may dysregulate the release of serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline, and sleep cycles (i.e. interrupting sleep/insomnia),” she said. But, when it comes to getting enough magnesium, plant eaters are in luck, according to Coogan. This important mineral is found mostly in plant-based foods, including leafy greens, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Lastly, selenium deficiency can cause thyroid dysfunction, inflammation, oxidative stress, and dysregulation of important mood regulators like serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline. “Selenium is primarily found in seafood, poultry, meat, eggs, and fish,” said Coogan. However, it can also be found in bread and grains. Ludy concluded by stating, “If in doubt, meeting with a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) can be a great resource for planning a well-balanced diet.” The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics maintains a database of RDNs on its website, or you can ask your primary care provider for a referral.

Red Bull Boss Christian Horner Says Team ‘not Aware’ Of Any F1 Budget Cap Breach During 2021 Season – Sky Sports https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/red-bull-boss-christian-horner-says-team-not-aware-of-any-f1-budget-cap-breach-during-2021-season-sky-sports/ Christian Horner and Toto Wolff have shared differing opinions on speculation over breaches of F1’s budget cap Red Bull team principal Christian Horner says he is “not aware” of the team having breached Formula 1’s budget cap, amid reports they could be penalised for over-spending during the 2021 campaign. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff later described Horner’s comments as “funny”, and said the alleged breaches are a “heavyweight issue” that will have implications on results from the three world championships from 2021-2023. The sport introduced a budget cap last season, and reports claim Red Bull are one of two teams who the FIA will announce went over the $145m (£114m) spending limit, with an official announcement expected on October 5. Potential punishment for the teams found to have breached the regulations could range from financial penalties to points deduction, with the categorisation of the infringement as ‘minor’ or ‘material’ the crucial factor. Sainz leads Ferrari one-two from Leclerc in Singapore practice Sky Sports to remain home of F1 until 2029 with new deal When to watch the Singapore GP on Sky Sports F1 Speaking to Sky Sports F1 after opening practice at the Singapore GP on Friday, Horner responded to a topic that is threatening to overshadow the sport’s first visit to the Marina Bay Street Circuit since 2019. “We are certainly not aware of any (breaches),” Horner said. “The accounts were all submitted way back in March, so it’s been a long process with the FIA going through, and we are in that process as we speak. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Red Bull team principal Horner says that their submission of the budget cap for last season was the below the FIA’s cap Red Bull team principal Horner says that their submission of the budget cap for last season was the below the FIA’s cap “They are rightly following that process and I think mid-next week is when they declare their certificates. “Certainly our submission was below the cap and it’s down to the FIA to follow their process, which they are currently doing.” Horner also described the regulations as “immature”, and said that the interpretation and application of them would be “subjective”. The rules provide a range of sanctions that can be applied based on the amount by which teams have exceeded the cap. These include fines for minor offences, while material offences could result in a deduction of points from the drivers’ and teams’ standings, suspension and exclusion from the championship. The FIA released a statement before Horner spoke to Sky Sports F1 on Friday, insisting any breaches would be “dealt with” according to the regulations. The statement said: “The FIA is currently finalising the assessment of the 2021 financial data submitted by all Formula 1 teams. Alleged breaches of the Financial Regulations, if any, will be dealt with according to the formal process set out in the regulations.” Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Despite being on the brink of winning the championship in Singapore, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen is refusing to get ahead of himself in his quest for a second world title Despite being on the brink of winning the championship in Singapore, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen is refusing to get ahead of himself in his quest for a second world title Red Bull driver Max Verstappen pipped Lewis Hamilton to the 2021 drivers’ championship, while Mercedes narrowly won the constructors’ title. Verstappen is all but certain to add his second title this season, while Red Bull are in a similarly dominant position and look set to end Mercedes’ eight-year run of constructors’ titles. Wolff: ‘Heavyweight issue’ must be policed Reacting to Horner’s comments, Wolff told Sky Sports F1 that the breaches were a “heavyweight issue”, and also urged FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem to take a “robust stance” on the matter. “It’s funny that Christian (Horner) has said that because it has been weeks and months that they’ve been being investigated,” said Wolff. “So maybe he doesn’t speak to his CFO (chief financial officer). “All of us have been investigated diligently and, as far as we understand, there is a team is in minor breach, which is more procedural, and another team that is fundamentally massively over and that is still being looked after. That is an open secret in the paddock. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Mercedes team principal Wolff says that Red Bull are being investigated after Horner remained adamant that Red Bull had not gone over the cost cap Mercedes team principal Wolff says that Red Bull are being investigated after Horner remained adamant that Red Bull had not gone over the cost cap “I think there is a governance in place that is very solid that the FIA have set up and you are going to be issued a certificate of compliance and if you are not compliant it goes to the cost cap adjudication panel with independent judges, and they can then choose from these penalties the appropriate one.” The FIA said in a statement on Friday night: “The FIA is currently finalising the assessment of the 2021 financial data submitted by all Formula 1 teams. Alleged breaches of the Financial Regulations, if any, will be dealt with according to the formal process set out in the regulations. “The FIA notes significant and unsubstantiated speculation and conjecture in relation to this matter, and reiterates that the assessment is ongoing and due process will be followed without consideration to any external discussion.” Amid their domination of the 2022 season, there has been speculation in recent weeks that Red Bull have developed a new lightweight chassis, that could further their advantage over their rivals. Speaking ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix, Verstappen said, perhaps in jest, that he had made a deal with his team that if he won the previous race in Monza (which he did) with their heavier version of the chassis, he would continue to use it at this race. Wolff referenced the rumoured development as he continued his criticism, citing the knock-on effects over-spending in 2021 may have had. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player David Croft and Anthony Davidson takes us through all of the major talking points from Friday practice of the Singapore GP David Croft and Anthony Davidson takes us through all of the major talking points from Friday practice of the Singapore GP He said: “The crucial part is that if you have been over in 2021, then you’ve been over in 2022 and that means you have an advantage into 2023. If it’s true that they formulated a lightweight chassis this year, they may use it the next year, so it’s really a cascade of events that can influential on all of the three championships. “This is heavyweight, it’s massively heavyweight. “We are using used parts, we are not running what we want to run, we are not developing what we could be developing. “We have made more than 40 people redundant that are dearly missed in our organisation and it was a huge, mammoth operation to make the cap. “I don’t know how many tens of millions we had to restructure and reprocess in order to be below the cap and if someone has been not doing that or pushing the boundaries, every million is a massive disadvantage. “Even if it’s the so-called minor breach that can be below five per cent, you can spend seven million more than everybody else, and that means if this is a light penalty, we will all be pushing those five per cent more going forward.” Domenicali: Africa back on F1 calendar soon | Kyalami not only contender Ricciardo: F1 reserve role ‘realistic’ for 2023 | Steiner: Haas not waiting Hamilton ‘feels for fans’ amid Verstappen domination Speaking separately to BBC Sport, Wolf added: “It is of huge importance for a demonstration that these regulations are policed and I have no reason to believe otherwise. “The FIA, particularly Mohammed (Ben Sulayem), has shown a pretty robust stance on enforcing all kinds of regulations. So if we are talking now about something big, he will show the same integrity and leadership that he has done before.” Later, in an interview with PA, Wolff, who spoke directly to Ben Sulayem on Friday night, added: “I don’t know by how much Red Bull have overshot, and where, and what that means as a consequence for last year’s championship, this year’s championship and next year’s championship. “The catalogue of potential penalties is huge. And the independent judges will come to their conclusions. “We have had a massive restructuring process in the organisation to save $50m, and it has been overwhelming, distracting and a development deterrent. If somebody has been challenging that system, it is a major difference between winning and finishing third. “We are 10 kilos overweight at the moment, and that is three tenths of a second. For $2m, we could have taken 10 kilos out, and produced two lighter chassis so we are talking about a second or more in performance. “I have seen Mohammed act on regulations, minor or major, and what I like in the new system, whether it is Ferrari or Mercedes, is that they just follow the regulations. The FIA will do the right thing, and judge what the impact of such a breach was.”

How Bentley Systems’ 3DFT Could Conquer The Infrastructure Metaverse – VentureBeat https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/how-bentley-systems-3dft-could-conquer-the-infrastructure-metaverse-venturebeat/ September 30, 2022 12:07 PM Image Credit: Weiquan Lin/Getty Construction data can quickly scale into gigabytes and terabytes of data. The field is complicated because teams use various file formats to design, construct and operate a building or facility. Teams must often load the whole file into proprietary rendering tools before showing off a new design or collaborating on schedules. These files can be even more complex when building out large-scale digital twins of whole cities like Helsinki or Singapore.  Bentley Systems hopes to change that. At a technology demonstration event in London, Bentley showed off a new 3D streaming codec for the infrastructure metaverse called 3DFT. It’s already running on the Epic Unreal Engine, and Bentley plans to support other platforms down the road.  3DFT is not the first format for streaming metaverse data. The GIS industry has been streaming 2D data for years using tiles. And the Open Geospatial Consortium has been working on the 3D Tiles standard to extend streaming into the third dimension.  Greg Demchak, senior director of Bentley’s digital innovation lab, told VentureBeat that 3D Tiles is an excellent standard for rendering large outdoor environments. However, it struggles with rendering physical infrastructure such as BIM models at high quality. This is important for building designers who are evaluating trade-offs in design choices.  Faster iteration Simon Blakeney, technical account manager at Epic Games, said that with traditional 3D formats, teams might wait up to 20 minutes to load a new dataset. “With 3DFT, the data just flows through. It really speeds up the iteration for design reviews.”  Another strength is that 3DFT does a good job of capturing asset IDs about the objects in a space. This could help connect objects like doors and windows to a rich trail of information relating to costs, scheduling, clashes and analytics. Down the road, Blakeney predicts this will make it easier to weave this raw data into applications for stress testing, simulating crowds in a space or optimizing schedules.  “The world is your oyster once you have hooked into the IDs,” Blakeney said.  The new codec is part of Bentley’s broader plan to build out the infrastructure metaverse on top of tools like iTwin for consolidating all construction data into a basic overlay.  “While we have many products, the platform lets us make all information available, including the 3D models, metadata and point cloud data, and store it in a single source of trust, and then you can start to build apps on top of it,” said Demchak.  For example, third parties are developing tools to automatically detect cell tower assets from drone footage and populate an inventory. Down the road, Bentley hopes this could allow a whole ecosystem of custom-built solutions for construction and asset management.  Demchak’s team has experimented with building integrations into all three major platforms from Unity, Nvidia Omniverse and Epic Unreal. They are currently getting the best results for live immersive experiences on the Unreal platform. But Demchak observed that the other platforms are working to catch up. He has found the Omniverse ideal for generating photorealistic video walkthroughs after the fact.  Collaboration required to connect worlds Bentley is certainly not the only construction giant fleshing out its infrastructure metaverse strategy. Autodesk also announced a collaboration with Epic to make it easier to create virtual walkthroughs from Revit data.  Architectural and construction firms are starting to innovate on Epic as well. For example, Zaha Hadid has created a building configurator for a new project off the coast of Honduras. It allows consumers to customize a new home and virtually walk through a mockup. This improves the customer experience and helps optimize construction time.  “We work very closely with Bentley, Autodesk and other third parties to ensure that other tools can be interoperable with our ecosystem,” Epic Games’ Blakeney said.  But at the moment, it can be challenging to move data between the different construction software platforms. Demchak hopes that the big construction tool providers can overcome their differences to promote interoperability.  “In my dream state, we are trying to achieve lossless transmission of formats from one to the next,” Demchak said. “There should be no loss in fidelity if I go from Revit to iTwin. There should be no reason that any of that information should diminish.” In the long run, this will help enable an immersive experience that allows teams to use their tool of choice while collaborating on the same underlying dataset.  “It will be less about an experience of a file and more about a connection where whatever happens behind the scenes just works,” Demchak said.  VentureBeat’s mission is to be a digital town square for technical decision-makers to gain knowledge about transformative enterprise technology and transact. Discover our Briefings.

Shark Tank: Banana Phone, The Woobles, Turbo Trusser & More – CarterMatt https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/shark-tank-banana-phone-the-woobles-turbo-trusser-more-cartermatt/ Shark Tank September 30, 2022 Tonight Shark Tank is back with a new episode: Want to learn about a Banana Phone, The Woobles, Turbo Trusser, & Stealth Bros & Co.? We’ve got you covered. Before we go any further here, we should note that we’re getting a normal episode of the series without a live component. Last week’s polarizing premiere was a one-off experiment. We’re glad they tried something new to drum up attention, but this is one of those shows that is better off taped in advance. Now, let’s go ahead and share the official synopsis before getting into the products: “1402” – First into the Tank are entrepreneurs from Apex, North Carolina, who pitch their step-by-step kit made to teach beginners how to create cuddly and cute animal characters. Entrepreneurs from Bend, Oregon, banana-split their proceeds to support endangered gorillas with their fun Bluetooth-enabled accessory; while entrepreneurs from Canton, Ohio, hope to hook a Shark with their rapid trussing device designed to cook the perfect bird every time. An entrepreneur from Mays Landing, New Jersey, introduces his luxury supply company that provides convenient personal storage for medical necessities on an all-new episode of “Shark Tank” airing FRIDAY, SEPT. 30 (8:00-9:01 p.m. EDT), on ABC. (TV-PG, L) Watch episodes on demand and on Hulu the day following the premiere. Now, let’s dive into all of the products themselves… Turbo Trusser – This is a gadget that you basically attach to your chicken, turkey, or duck prior to cooking to ensure that the bird cooks evenly throughout. It’s less than $15, and to us, it feels like a product perfect for the infomercial world. Stealth Bros & Co. – This is a pretty revolutionary idea that’s all about helping people in need with their medical necessities — while looking and feeling cool at the same time. They sell sharps containers and shuttles that are sleek, cool, and offer a sense of identity. Banana Phone – Is this an investible company? We have no real idea, but it’s hilarious — the whole idea here is a bluetooth “banana” that can be connected to your smartphone and used as its own separate phone. The idea may be a joke, but it also supports gorilla conservation — also, Reese Witherspoon bought one. The Woobles – If there is a slam-dunk product in this episode in terms of an investment, this is it: Crochet kits designed for beginnings that are easy, affordable, and produce some really adorable results. This is something that so many people may want to learn, but they may be concerned about accessibility. Well, be concerned no more! Related – Be sure to get some more news on Shark Tank right now! What do you most want to see on Shark Tank with Banana Phone, The Woobles, Turbo Trusser, & Stealth Bros & Co.? Share now in the comments! Once you do just that, come back for other updates you don’t want to miss. (Photo: ABC.) This article was written by Jessica BunBun. Be sure to follow her on Twitter.

FTX Is Paying $51 Million In Cash For Voyager Assets, Court Records Show – CNBC https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/ftx-is-paying-51-million-in-cash-for-voyager-assets-court-records-show-cnbc/ Sam Bankman-Fried, founder and chief executive officer of FTX Cryptocurrency Derivatives Exchange, speaks during an interview on an episode of Bloomberg Wealth with David Rubenstein in New York, US, on Wednesday, Aug 17, 2022. Jeenah Moon | Bloomberg | Getty Images FTX’s winning $1.4 billion bid for bankrupt crypto firm Voyager Digital was announced earlier this week, but court filings indicate that the cash paid for the firm itself is significantly lower — $51 million. The bulk of FTX’s offer focused on Voyager’s crypto holdings, which amounted to $1.31 billion. Those holdings will be distributed to eligible creditors on a pro rata basis, the filings say. related investing news Sam Bankman-Fried, FTX’s founder, has pursued an aggressive buying spree across the crypto industry, snapping up deeply discounted assets in the wake of defaults, bankruptcies, and market tumult. In the Voyager deal, FTX’s consideration for non-crypto assets — the users, intellectual property, and structure of Voyager itself — constitutes a total of “at least $111 million,” filings show. Just $51 million of that is for Voyager’s assets, intellectual property, and user base. The remaining $60 million consists of an accumulated $50 account credit for each Voyager user who successfully onboards with FTX and a $20 million “earn out” allowance. It was not immediately apparent, based on filings, who would benefit from an earnout, which is often used in acquisitions as a way to incentivize founders and management teams of the company being purchased. Voyager’s most recent bankruptcy report indicated that the company held just shy of $900 million in crypto assets for customers, with another $456.44 million loaned out and $173.68 million held as collateral from borrowers.  Voyager users who chose to migrate to FTX’s platform would receive a pro rata distribution of Voyager assets, based on their portion of Voyager’s overall holdings. Voyager’s troubles emerged after the firm extended a loan valued at $670 million to crypto hedge fund Three Arrows Capital (3AC) in early 2022. When 3AC defaulted on its loan obligations in late June, it unleashed a financial cascade that pushed Voyager into bankruptcy and 3AC’s founders into hiding.  FTX’s bid, if approved by creditors, would transfer Voyager’s loan balances — excluding the 3AC loan, which was not part of the deal — to FTX and, by extension, to Bankman-Fried. The $51 million price tag for Voyager and its associated claims would represent a steep discount, given FTX’s assumption of customer assets and loan balances. WATCH: Voyager Digital files for bankruptcy amid crypto lender solvency crisis

U.S.-Led Resolution On Moscow’s Proclaimed Annexations Fails After Russia Uses Veto – Reuters https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/u-s-led-resolution-on-moscows-proclaimed-annexations-fails-after-russia-uses-veto-reuters/ WASHINGTON, Sept 30 (Reuters) – A resolution introduced by the United States and Albania at the United Nations Security Council condemning Russia’s proclaimed annexation of parts of Ukraine was rejected on Friday after Russia exercised its veto. In a vote in the council’s chamber on Friday afternoon, 10 nations, including the United States and Britain, voted in favor, while China, Gabon, India and Brazil abstained from voting. Russia’s was the only vote against the resolution. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier on Friday proclaimed Russian rule over four regions that make up 15% of Ukraine’s territory – the biggest annexation in Europe since World War Two. The move has been firmly rejected by Western countries and even many of Russia’s close allies. U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield introduced the resolution that called on member states not to recognize any altered status of Ukraine and obligate Russia to withdraw its troops. Washington has signaled it would look to the U.N. General Assembly, the majority of which voted to condemn Russia’s Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine, if the resolution failed. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Simon Lewis and Timothy Gardner; Editing by Franklin Paul and Jonathan Oatis Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

NA Proactive News Snapshot: Skye Bioscience, KULR Technology Group, Guardforce AI, Cloud DX, Cabral Gold, Todos Medical, Irwin Naturals, Evergen Infrastructure UPDATE… – Proactive Investors USA https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/na-proactive-news-snapshot-skye-bioscience-kulr-technology-group-guardforce-ai-cloud-dx-cabral-gold-todos-medical-irwin-naturals-evergen-infrastructure-update-proactive-investors-usa/ Skye Bioscience Inc (OTCQB:SKYE) said its shareholders have voted in favor of all the proposals put forward at its special meeting held on September 30, including its proposed acquisition of Emerald Health Therapeutics Inc (CSE:EMH, OTCQX:EMHTF) (EHT). The company said it and EHT continued to work diligently toward the closing of the arrangement and planned to proceed with the closing as soon as practicable following the satisfaction of all remaining closing conditions. “We look forward to welcoming Emerald Health Therapeutics shareholders as new Skye stockholders as we continue on our path to develop our cannabinoid derivative drug candidates for important diseases with unmet needs,” commented Skye CEO Punit Dhillon after the meeting. KULR Technology Group Inc (NYSE:KULR) is scheduled to participate at the following conferences in October 2022: UBS Future of Electric Mobility Virtual Conference on October 3; Ebike Future Conference & Expo between October 11 – 13; Gamma Technologies Technical Conference on October 11, at 9:40am ET; Battery Safety Summit, October 12, at 4:00pm ET; FAA’s Tenth Triennial International Fire and Cabin Safety Research Conference on October 19 at 11:00 a.m. ET; and Equip Expo 2022 between October 19 – 21. Guardforce AI Co Ltd (NASDAQ:GFAI) said it has made significant progress transforming into an integrated artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics business to complement its established logistics segment during the first half of 2022. Highlights from the six months ended June 30, 2022, include a 253% growth in its robotic AI segment revenue compared to the same period in 2021, and the expansion of the company’s Robot-as-a-Service business to now operate in eight countries including China, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. Guardforce AI CEO Olivia Wang also spotlighted the company’s development progress made on the Guardforce AI Intelligent Cloud Platform (GFAI ICP). Cloud DX (TSX-V:CDX, OTCQB:CDXFF), a provider of virtual care and remote patient monitoring solutions, announced the company’s attendance by invitation at the Opportunity Collaborative Impact 2022 (OC Impact) in the beautiful beach town of Michès, in the Dominican Republic. The North American disruptor in virtual care based in Kitchener, Ontario with a strong presence in Brooklyn, New York, said the three-day collaborative summit supports entrepreneurs with a mission to advance social impact initiatives. Awarded a prestigious 12-month OC Fellowship, Cloud DX (TSX-V:CDX, OTCQB:CDXFF) is one of nine XPRIZE Alumni in attendance, as part of the XPRIZE mission to advance technologies to benefit humanity. Cabral Gold Inc (TSX-V:CBR) has announced an updated mineral resource estimate for its Cuiú Cuiú project in Brazil, which showed a total Indicated resource of 21.6 million tonnes (Mt), grading 0.87 grams per tonne (g/t) gold (604,000 ounces), along with a total Inferred resource of 19.8 Mt grading 0.84 g/t gold (534,500 ounces). The junior explorer said Cuiú Cuiú’s Indicated resource increased by 433,000 ounces, or 253%, from the previous estimate. “The new resource estimate is a testament to the integrity of the Cuiú Cuiú mineralization, with more than 50% of the total gold ounces in the Indicated category,” Cabral Gold CEO Alan Carter said in a statement. Todos Medical Ltd has welcomed news it will be granted two patents covering its total biochemical infrared analysis (TBIA) fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) pan-cancer blood diagnostics platform. The notices, from the United States patent and trademark office (USPTO), cover applications entitled, firstly: ‘Infrared (IR) Spectroscopy System’, and secondly: ‘Infrared Analysis of Benign Tumors’. Todos noted that it has already received CE marks (covering the European Union (EU) for its TBIA blood diagnostic test in breast cancer and colon cancer. Irwin Naturals Inc said it has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase all of the issued and outstanding shares of Keta Media LLC (doing business as Ketamine Media), the nation’s leading growth platform for clinics offering ketamine-assisted therapy. Ketamine Media has established relationships with clinics in over 45 states and three countries, and connects providers and patients using a unique patient-centered approach, the company said. “While this transaction will contribute immediately to our profitability, this acquisition is driven predominantly by strategic considerations,” Irwin CEO Klee Irwin said in a statement. Evergen Infrastructure Corp said it has partnered with Adelaide Capital, a leading investor relations and capital markets advisory firm, to provide investor relations and consulting services to the company. Adelaide will work closely with Evergen to develop and deploy a comprehensive capital markets program, which includes assisting with non-deal road shows, virtual campaigns, conferences and assisting with investor communication. The company will pay Adelaide a monthly fee of $10,000, in addition to 15,000 stock options at an exercise price of $2.75 per share for a three-year term, subject to the approval of the board of directors. “We are thrilled to be working with Adelaide Capital, who will provide us with a comprehensive investor relations platform and help strengthen our communication with current and prospective shareholders as we pursue our next leg of growth,” Evergen CEO Chase Edgelow said. PowerTap Hydrogen Capital Corp said it was not able to finalize its annual financial statements and accompanying management’s discussion and analysis for the year ended June 30, 2022 for submission by September 28, 2022, the date required by Canadian securities laws, as a result of delays to its audit. The audit delay is due to enhanced quality controls undertaken by its auditors, staff turnover and the complexity of auditing certain transactions. PowerTap’s auditors, Smythe Ratcliffe LLP, have requested more time for partner and consultant review as part of the enhanced measures. The company has applied for, and has been granted, a management cease trade order (MCTO) by the British Columbia Securities Commission. PowerTap expects to file the annual filings on or before October 28, 2022 and will issue a news release announcing completion of the filings at such time. Until then, it will comply with the alternative information guidelines set out in National Policy 12-203 – Management Cease Trade Order for issuers who have failed to comply with a specified continuous disclosure requirement within the times prescribed by applicable securities laws. The guidelines, among other things, require the company to issue bi-weekly default status reports by way of a news release so long as the annual filings have not been filed. During the MCTO, investors will be able to continue trading in the company’s common shares. However, its CEO and CFO  will not be able to do so, it added. OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX:OTCM) the operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 US and international securities, has announced that Bravo Mining Corp, a Canada and Brazil based explorer, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX Best Market under the symbol ‘BRVMF’ , having upgraded from the Pink market. Luis Azevedo, CEO of Bravo Mining, said “Our Luanga project, located in the prolific Carajas Mineral Province in Brazil is an emerging Tier 1 Palladium + Platinum + Rhodium + Gold + Nickel deposit. As a newly-listed company in the TSX Venture and with an aggressive drilling plan underway, we felt important to begin trading in the OTCQX in order to increase accessibility to U.S.-based retail and institutional investors.” Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their US investors. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws. Skyharbour Resources Ltd, a Canadian uranium explorer, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX Best Market, upgrading from the OTCQB Venture Market, said OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX:OTCM) The company begins trading on the OTCQX on Friday under the ticker symbol “SYHBF.” Skyharbour CEO and president Jordan Trimble commented: “Upgrading to OTCQX provides American investors with greater accessibility to trading the company’s common shares and gives the company a much more robust potential shareholder and capital base.” OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX:OTCM) the operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 US and international securities, has announced that Superior Gold Inc, a Canadian-based gold producer, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX Best Market under the symbol ‘SUPGF’, having upgraded from the Pink market. “We are excited to begin trading on the OTCQX Market and are working on DTC eligibility which we hope to achieve shortly, making it easier for US investors to trade Superior Gold stock,” said Chris Jordaan, CEO of Superior Gold. “Superior gold continues to focus on advancing to intermediate gold producer status through targeted growth and the delivery of key objectives designed to improve tonnage throughput, head grade, and overall gold production. We are also targeting lower AISC costs with increased production offsetting our fixed costs. The company has a growing mineral resource endowment and additional milling capability available. Superior Gold offers investors growth in the near and longer term,” he added. Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is ...

Texas Diaper Bank In Urgent Need Of Donations Due To Inflation, Hurricane Ian – KENS5.com https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/texas-diaper-bank-in-urgent-need-of-donations-due-to-inflation-hurricane-ian-kens5-com/ This week is National Diaper Needs Awareness Week and the largest diaper bank in San Antonio is asking for help. SAN ANTONIO — With recent inflation, there is a lot of focus on families with little ones who are struggling to survive.  This week is National Diaper Needs Awareness Week and the largest diaper bank in San Antonio is asking for help. The Texas Diaper Bank serves 75,000 Bexar County residents. They helped Houston during Hurricane Harvey and now they are on standby for Florida after Hurricane Ian. They supply free diapers, wipes, and diaper rash creams. The organization also addresses period poverty with free feminine hygiene products and the incontinence gap with incontinence products. CEO Jorge Medina says the need has exponentially grown as inflation has hit our country. “Diapers are important for a baby’s health,wellness, and the ability for families to go to work, to put their baby in childcare center,” Medina said. “Diapers are not free and diapers cost a lot of money. Families will spend about $80 a month to provide diapers for their baby.” Medina says all sorts of people come to them for help, including veterans, single dads, single moms, and grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. The organization is hosting a gala this weekend to raise money as the need grows. KENS 5 anchor Sarah Forgany is emceeing the event at the Doseum Saturday, October 1 at 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Included in the ticket price is dinner and dancing. If you are unable to make the gala, the organization is accepting donations. Click here for a link to gala tickets or to donate or volunteer.

How To Travel More Sustainably Without Harming Destinations – Insider https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/how-to-travel-more-sustainably-without-harming-destinations-insider/ Traveling sustainably is about making intentional choices to serve your destination and planet well. We asked experts how to make these choices when planning a trip to be as sustainable as possible.  This article is part of “Better Me,” a series about improving your lifestyle and helping society through sustainable efforts and eco-consciousness. Loading Something is loading. Sustainable travel can feel like an oxymoron — as Justin Francis, the cofounder and CEO of Responsible Travel, a UK-based travel company that evaluates trips and vacation providers, told Insider. The travel industry can create jobs, or it can lead to over-tourism that lowers residents’ quality of life. Flights emit harmful emissions, but transport travelers to destinations where they can support local economies and participate in positive, nature-based tourism. Lodging accommodations can boost the local economy, or price residents out of their homes. But Francis believes people can travel “in a way that not only reduces harm but actively maximizes the benefits, for both planet and people.” Five other sustainable travel experts who spoke with Insider agree and say there are actions travelers can take to lower their negative impact, support the destinations they’re visiting, and have an overall better trip. They suggest considering every aspect of your trip — from where you go to how you get there — as you plan to travel more sustainably. Kelley Louise, the executive director and founder of Impact Travel Alliance, a nonprofit centered on informing travelers to help improve the world, told Insider that traveling sustainably takes practice and being an imperfect traveler is better than not trying. As Louise said, “It’s about asking, ‘How can you make little decisions that add up over time and have a positive impact on the world?'” If you’re looking for a place to start, here’s what the experts Insider spoke with recommend. Abbey Lossing for Insider Go off the beaten path Some of the experts Insider spoke with suggest skipping top tourist destinations and opting for under-the-radar spots. “By seeking out the less-visited destinations, you will be helping to spread the economic benefits of tourism more widely and helping to avoid the negative impacts that over-tourism has on local residents,” Georgina Davies — the communications manager for The Travel Foundation, a group that advocates for sustainable tourism — told Insider. Paloma Zapata agrees. The CEO of Sustainable Travel International — an organization that works with local governments, businesses, and nonprofits to provide sustainable travel opportunities — also recommends visiting a hidden gem. If you’re going to Greece, for instance, you could skip Mykonos and head to an island like Anafi or Ios with fewer tourists. Once you’ve picked your destination, Davies encourages travelers to visit the region’s national parks and protected areas. Often these places have entrance fees, which support conservation efforts. Choose a destination that embraces sustainability Jessica Blotter, CEO and cofounder of public benefit corporation Kind Travel, told Insider she looks for destinations with tourism boards that have a dedicated sustainable travel section on their website. She recommends avoiding areas where sustainable transportation and lodging are hard to find, and “where access to nature and the outdoors is limited.” Vacation during shoulder season Tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain without hordes of people around or exploring Niagara Falls in the winter isn’t just beneficial to travelers; experts say it also supports sustainability. Visiting destinations during shoulder seasons “spreads the benefits of tourism locally across the year and lightens the burden of over-tourism in popular destinations,” Francis said. His company, Responsible Travel, has a guide that outlines the best time to visit certain destinations.  Zapata added that you’re also more likely to have a stress-free and special vacation if you’re visiting when there are fewer crowds. “It could be even more enriching,” she said. “When you’re on a beach or on a sailboat and it’s just surrounded by masses of people, maybe that’s not the best experience.” Visit fewer places for longer One way to travel more responsibly is to visit fewer places for longer periods of time. For example, instead of spending a week in four European countries, plan a 10-day trip to one or two. “Fewer but longer trips mean fewer air miles, more money in local hands, and you’ll have a more relaxing trip, too,” Francis said. “If you can, keep shorter trips close to home or travel by land or sea.” He added that these modes of travel can be an adventure in themselves, and allow you to “see so much more of a destination.” If you must travel a long distance, Blotter recommends stretching the trip as much as possible to maximize your experience. “Booking multiple, long-haul trips per year is not sustainable or carbon-friendly,” she said. Abbey Lossing for Insider Evaluate the distance for the most sustainable way to get there The first step in deciding how to responsibly get to your destination is considering the number of people traveling and the distance you’re going. Besides biking and walking, trains are typically one of the most sustainable ways to travel, Zapata said. If your destination is accessible by train, consider that. If you’re debating whether it’s more sustainable to fly or drive, Zapata said it comes down to the distance. “A lot of times trains are going to be more energy and carbon efficient,” she said. “But when it comes to a car, there comes a moment when flying is actually more carbon efficient than driving when you’re talking about very long distances.” Calculators like the ones offered by the International Civil Aviation Organization and Environmental Defense Fund can help travelers map out the least carbon-intensive way to get from A to B. If you need to fly, opt for nonstop routes and travel in economy Flying will likely be the most unsustainable aspect of your trip. Aviation makes up about 2% of global carbon emissions and 80% of a vacation’s carbon footprint comes from the flight, according to National Geographic. Experts suggest thinking about how much you should fly in a year. For example, maybe you take one international flight a year and prioritize having the rest of your trips close to home, Louise said.  But no matter where you jet off to, experts recommend flying nonstop in economy. “When booking long-distance plane travel, always choose a direct flight with no layovers,” Blotter said. “Direct flights use less carbon dioxide than connecting flights.” Additionally, by flying in economy, as some of the experts Insider spoke with pointed out, you maximize the number of people a flight can carry by taking up less space. Ultimately, though, the best thing you can do is reduce your carbon footprint during your trip. Experts like Louise and Gregory Miller, the executive director of the international nonprofit Center for Responsible Travel, agree that carbon offsets act more like a Band-Aid than a solution to sustainable travel. But if they do decide to purchase carbon offsets, which reduce or remove emissions to compensate for those made during a trip, Miller suggests purchasing through a reliable, vetted program. Groups like Zapata’s Sustainable Travel say they invest people’s money into carbon-reducing projects centered on clean energy and biodiversity.  Abbey Lossing for Insider Pack light The simplest advice when it comes to being a sustainable packer is to pack less, Zapata said. “Travel light,” she said. “You don’t need 20 shoes to travel.” Blotter agrees and says that by packing lighter, you’ll reduce carbon emissions. That’s because the lighter the aircraft, train, car, or boat, the less energy is needed.  Louise added that by packing fewer items and using a carry-on, you’ll get through security faster and avoid the hassle of checking a bag. Pack reusable items Francis suggests adding the items you use at home to your packing list. That might include a reusable water bottle, a bag for shopping, and utensils to avoid plastic cutlery.   Louise acknowledges that it might not be feasible for every traveler to carry a reusable water bottle, so she urges travelers to consider what other meaningful swaps they could make. For example, Louise said she swapped liquid shampoo and conditioner for shampoo and conditioner bars a few vacations back. The bars are lighter than liquid soaps, which means they save carbon emissions during transportation. Plus, many are packaged in recyclable paper instead of plastic.   The switch became permanent in Louise’s daily life, she said, adding that it made traveling easier since she didn’t have to worry about leaks or liquids at airport security. “It’s a cool example of how we can look for more sustainable experiences that are also better travel experiences,” she said. “Plus it opens our eyes to new habits that can help us become more conscious consumers as well.” Pack brands you support If you’re doing some pre-vacation shopping, Louise recommends buying from brands that place sustainability at the forefront of their business. “If you’re supporting corporations and brands that are working on sustainability as well, then that’s going to move the needle and create change a lot quicker than we could as individuals,” she said. For tropical getaways, pack reef-safe sunscreen If you’re heading to Aruba or planning a diving trip in Belize, experts say travelers should ensure reef-safe sunscreen is on their packing lists. “Sunscreen can be very damaging to the environment and not everybody knows,” Zapata said.  Ingredients in everyday sunscreen can harm both coral reefs and local wi...

Hawaiian Ocean Adventures Shares Love Of The Canoe – Pacific Business News – The Business Journals https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/hawaiian-ocean-adventures-shares-love-of-the-canoe-pacific-business-news-the-business-journals/ Hawaiian Ocean Adventures shares love of the canoe – Pacific Business News  The Business Journals

What To Know About The White House Plan To End Hunger By 2030 – EatingWell https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/what-to-know-about-the-white-house-plan-to-end-hunger-by-2030-eatingwell/ Read on for how the new National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition & Health could affect you and your family. For the first time in 50 years, the White House is launching a new set of goals to reshape access to food, nutrition and health for Americans. The strategy includes a goal to end hunger and increase healthy eating and exercise by 2030, which the Biden administration hopes will help reduce health disparities that became clearer than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic. “For so many families—including families of color, those living in rural communities and territories and low-income families—structural inequality, such as disparities in educational and economic opportunities and lack of access to health care, safe housing and transportation, make the impact of hunger and diet-related diseases even more severe,” Joe Biden wrote in his announcement letter. “The pandemic made these problems worse, reinforcing the need for urgent, sustained action.” The strategy announcement includes some of the statistics that encouraged the White House to treat food insecurity and health with such urgency—including the fact that one in 10 households experienced food insecurity in 2021 and that four in 10 Americans have hypertension. The plan has five “pillars,” three of which will have direct impacts on accessing healthy foods. The first prong of the plan is all about improving access and affordability for all—that means expanding access to free school meals and summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) for kids, plus working to increase access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for more people. Right now, SNAP benefits aren’t available to people who were previously incarcerated, some young people who have aged out of foster care and even many college students who may have low income. Expanding that coverage would mean empowering folks in those populations to take greater control of their health. The second pillar aims to bring together nutrition and health, for which some doctors have long been campaigning. Two of the goals in this pillar include a Congressional plan to cover “medically tailored meals” under Medicare and testing Medicaid coverage of nutrition education and counseling. That could mean insurance-covered dietitian consultations for folks who need to change their eating habits after a diabetes or heart condition diagnosis, which could be huge for folks feeling overwhelmed by the idea of overhauling their eating pattern. The plan also includes a pillar about making it easier for folks to find healthy choices when they’re at the grocery store or a restaurant. That pillar includes a proposal to add nutritional labeling to the front of food packages, reducing sodium in the food supply—that’s a goal the FDA is already working on—and adding more incentives for SNAP recipients to buy fruits and veggies. There’s even a proposed update to what makes a food product “healthy”—as in, what criteria a food has to meet in order to use the word healthy on its packaging. The old definition was established in 1994, and the new definition would expand some of the nutritional requirements and add bonus points for foods that supply a “certain amount of food” from one of the major food groups or subgroups. The result is that water, avocados and nuts, which are currently ineligible for “healthy” status, could be labeled “healthy”, while items like white bread and sweetened yogurts would be demoted from healthy to ineligible for the “healthy” label. The other two pillars focus on supporting exercise for all and bolstering nutrition and food security research funding. They include items like expanding access to parks and advancing research around treatment and prevention of diet-related diseases, like oral diseases and type 2 diabetes. These goals are wide-ranging, so it may be a while before you see the fruits of this strategy. But plenty of consumer-facing policies are included in this master plan. For instance, the Federal Trade Commission will work more aggressively to tone down the way unhealthy foods and drinks are marketed to kids, and the Department of Transportation will improve public transit, bicycling and pedestrian options to make it easier for people to access their nearest supermarket. You might even notice a new garden, farmers’ market or grocery store in your area, since the Department of Housing and Urban Development will work to make food hubs a central, accessible part of public housing areas. Eliminating hunger in just eight years is a pretty exciting goal—but a lot of the supporting goals around health and nutrition in the new plan are just as interesting. You can read more about the total strategy, including making more school lunches from scratch and making traditional indigenous foods more accessible on reservations, in the White House’s strategy document.

Indian Sports News Wrap, September 30: Aditya Pips Aaradhya In Asian Under-16 Tennis Final – Sportstar https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/indian-sports-news-wrap-september-30-aditya-pips-aaradhya-in-asian-under-16-tennis-final-sportstar/ TENNIS Aditya Mor pipped Aaradhya Kshitij 7-5, 7-6(5) in the final of the Asian Under-16 tennis tournament at the Vijayant Khand Stadium courts on Friday. It was a double crown for Aditya, a trainee of RoundGlass Academy, as he had won the doubles title earlier with fellow trainee Praneel Sharma. Coach Sukhwant Basra was delighted with the way Aditya executed the tactics in the final and also the robust manner he had played the doubles with Praneel. The girls title was bagged by Jaya Kapoor who breezed past her doubles partner Shagun Kumari 6-3, 6-0. It was a double crown for Jaya as well, as she had won the doubles title earlier. THE RESULTS (FINALS) Under-16 Boys: Aditya Mor bt Aaradhya Kshitij 7-5, 7-6(5). Under-16 Girls: Jaya Kapoor bt Shagun Kumari 6-3, 6-0. – Kamesh Srinivasan Bopanna wins doubles semifinals in Tel Aviv Rohan Bopanna, seeded No.1 with Matwe Middelkoop, beat Sadio Dumbia and Fabien Reboul 4-6, 7-6(3), [10-8] in the doubles semifinals of the $1,019,855 ATP tennis tournament in Tel Aviv on Friday. In the ATP event in Seoul, Yuki Bhambri and Saketh Myneni were beaten 7-5, 7-5 by top seeds Raven Klaasen and Nathaniel Lammons in the doubles semifinals. The Indian pair collected $18,530 and 90 ATP points. In the ITF women’s event in Ecuador, Smriti Bhasin went down fighting in three hours and 22 minutes to third seed Maria Perez-Garcia 7-6(7), 5-7, 1-6 in the pre-quarterfinals. THE RESULTS $1,019,855 ATP, Tel Aviv, Israel Doubles (semifinals): Matwe Middelkoop (Ned) & Rohan Bopanna bt Sadio Doumbia & Fabien Reboul (Fra) 4-6, 7-6(3), [10-8]. $1,237,570 ATP, Seoul, Korea Doubles (semifinals): Raven Klaasen (RSA) & Nathaniel Lammons (USA) bt Yuki Bhambri & Saketh Myneni 7-5, 7-5. €45,730 Challenger, Lisbon, Portugal Doubles (semifinals): Vladyslav Manafov & Oleg Prihodko (Ukr) bt Christopher Rungkat (Ina) & Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan 6-4, 6-2. $15,000 ITF men, Monastir, Tunisia Doubles (quarterfinals): Tsung-Hao Huang (Tpe) & Jarno Jans (Ned) bt Rithvik Choudary & Niki Poonacha 6-1, 6-3. $15,000 ITF women, Guayaquil, Ecuador Singles (pre-quarterfinals): Maria Perez-Garcia (Col) bt Smriti Bhasin 6-7(7), 7-5, 6-1. Doubles (quarterfinals): Laura Patino & Antonia Samudio (Col) bt Mia Popovic (USA) & Priyanka Rodricks 6-1, 6-1. – Kamesh Srinivasan HOCKEY Sheetla, Nandii guide Sri Guru Nanak school to victory at Nehru under-17 girls hockey tournament Sheetla Yadav and Nandini Yadav scored a goal each to help Sri Guru Nanak Senior Secondary School, Rajnandgaon, to a 2-1 victory over Rose Bud School, Devgadh, Baria, in the preliminary league phase of the Charanjit Rai 28th Nehru under-17 girls hockey tournament at the Shivaji Stadium on Friday. Vegad Ranjan scored the goal for the Baria team. THE RESULTS (LEAGUE) Pool-A: One Thousand Hockey Legs (Neha Devi 2, Bharti Ahirwar, Nasmina Talukdar, Laxmi Kumari, Komal) bt Government Excellence School, Seoni, 6-0. Pool-B: GIC BHEL, Ranipur, Haridwar (Mukta 6, Saloni 3, Jyoti Mehra 2, Gungun, Anshika Soni, Manshi, Janki Rawal) bt SN Trust HSS, Kollam, 15-0. Pool-C: Sri Guru Nanak SSS, Rajnandgaon (Sheetla Yadav, Nandini Yadav) bt Rose Bud School, Devgadh, Baria (Vegad Ranjan) 2-1. Pool-D: Mahila Hockey Academy, Ajmer, (Gayatri Mahavar 5, Thavri Meena 5, Chetna Rani Das 4, Nikku Gurjar 3, Salini Lamoria) bt St. Athony’s HS, Goa, 18-0. – Kamesh Srinivasan GOLF Modest start for Aditi Ashok on LPGA India’s Aditi Ashok carded a modest three-over 74 in the opening round to lie tied 72nd at The Ascendant LPGA here. The Indian had just one birdie against four bogeys. Aditi, starting on the back nine, had a rough run from 14th to 18th with three bogeys and then had one more bogey on the second to go 4-over. She did pull back a shot with a birdie on the sixth. She will now need a good solid second round to make the cut. – PTI Sharma gets off to rough start at Dunhill Links India’s Shubhankar Sharma had a rough start as he carded two-over 74 in the opening round of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship here. Sharma was down five over after five holes, but made a valiant attempt thereafter to repair the damage at the Old Course, St. Andrews. The players play a round each at the Old Course, Kingsbarns and Carnoustie before the final round at Old Course. Teeing up at the Old Course, Sharma had pars on 10th and 11th but then bogeyed 12th and 13th. The Indian then dropped a triple bogey on Par-5. A birdie on 17th was followed by a bogey on second. He then had three birdies on fourth, fifth and seventh to finish at 74. Sharma plays his second round at the Carnoustie Course, considered the toughest of the three. Due to forecast bad weather on Friday, round two of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship will have a shotgun start across the three courses for all competitors. – PTI Delhi Golf Club League: Achal, Netra fire hole-in-one Veteran Achal Nath and upcoming golfer Netra Suri shot a hole-in-one each on the par-3 17th hole as Athletic Drive crushed BI Luxury 14 points to 2.5 in a Group ‘D’ encounter of the Lloyd Delhi Golf Club League here on Friday. THE RESULTS Group A: Shiva Motocorp bt Ardee Par Excellence 14.5-2; BMW Deutsche bt Delhi Tigers 9-7.5. Group B: The A-Team bt Birdie Machine 10-5; Swingkkings bt Robo4me 9.5-6.5. Group C: 24 Lions bt Sterling Swingers 10-4.5; The Pioneers bt Coca Cola 9-6.5. Group D: Christies Golf bt Teem EDC 11.5-4; Athletic Drive bt BI Luxury 14-2.5. – Rakesh Rao SHOOTING India finishes 22nd in men’s trap team championship in Shotgun World Championship The Indian trio of Prithviraj Tondaiman, Vivaan Kapoor and Bhowneesh Mendiratta shot 205 in the trap team championship to finish 22nd in the Shotgun World Championship in Osijek, Croatia, on Friday. Bhowneesh, who had won the Olympic quota place earlier for Paris, and Vivaan shot 69 each while Prithviraj Tondaiman could muster only 67 following a below par second round of 20. India missed qualification for the medal round by 10 points. In the women’s trap team championship, the India team of Shreyasi Singh (67), Manisha Keer (65) and Neeru (61) placed ninth with a total of 193. The top four teams, Italy, Finland, China and Australia made the cut for the medal round with scores ranging from 214 to 202. – Kamesh Srinivasan

Lenovo’s ThinkReality VRX Headset Brings The Metaverse To Corporates – Screen Rant https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/lenovos-thinkreality-vrx-headset-brings-the-metaverse-to-corporates-screen-rant/ Lenovo has announced the ThinkReality VRX all-in-one VR headset aimed at corporate users who require immersive experiences in a business setting. Lenovo has released the ThinkReality VRX virtual reality headset with hopes of targeting the business market. With large corporations such as Walmart getting into the metaverse, the AR and VR market has become appealing to businesses in various industries. As AR and VR become more mainstream, many companies are exploring ways to integrate the technology into their marketing strategies and products. Consumer-level AR and VR headsets have steadily been rolling out with more impressive features and relatively lower price points. Supplemental products such as haptic gloves and full-body VR suits are being developed to expand the ways consumers can engage with the metaverse. Since the technology is still in the early stages, some hardware is too expensive to market to the average user. Lenovo‘s new ThinkReality VRX is an all-in-one VR headset and prototyping tool marketed to large and growing businesses. Unlike Lenovo’s Meta Quest 2 rival Legion VR700, the ThinkReality VRX offers premium features for high-end clients. The headset features a pancake lens for optics and four front-mounted cameras for 6DoF tracking. It also features two color pass-through cameras and is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR platform. In addition to the impressive VR screen and AR pass-through capabilities, the VRX is also supported by cloud software and security features for enterprise clientele. Limited access to the headset will begin by the end of 2022, with worldwide availability rolling out in early 2023. Pricing will be revealed closer to the release date. There may be a market for premium VR headsets in corporate markets. With many users stepping into the metaverse for the first time, it may not be necessary for everyone to opt for pricier devices. But expensive technology is a byproduct of rapid advancement, and enterprise markets may be the solution to sustaining the continued development of premium devices with higher prices. With several VR and AR devices and products becoming available to businesses and consumers, the metaverse is being established as a promising market for investors. As consumer-level products become accessible, businesses have more incentive to create engaging virtual products. As a result, companies have been finding new ways to make the metaverse more immersive for users. Whether or not corporations will need their own line of advanced VR headsets, many businesses will likely be investing in the metaverse. Each industry will have to navigate its place in this new market and discover the best ways to entice potential customers with the latest virtual reality integrations. Source: Lenovo

Black Friday Steelseries Arctis 9 Deals 2022 – WePC – PC Tech & PC Gaming News https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/black-friday-steelseries-arctis-9-deals-2022-wepc-pc-tech-pc-gaming-news/ Steal yourself a series of Arctis 9 Black Friday deals Updated: Sep 30, 2022 4:27 pm Now is the best time to look for Black Friday Arctis 9 deals. SteelSeries is regarded as one of the best gaming peripherals manufacturers, especially concerning sound. This is why finding the Best Black Friday SteelSeries gaming set is a wise move to make. Black Friday is the ideal time of the year for gamers short of a budget, making once-out-of-reach gaming headset prices significantly easier to swallow. If you’re looking to update your gaming headset within an economical budget, Arctis 9 is the best option, and Black Friday 2022 is the best time. Like many other brands, including Razer, Logitech, and Corsair, SteelSeries also features some tasty Black Friday deals. The SteelSeries Arctis 9, since its launch in September 2020, has seen multiple Black Friday discounts. The gadget has excellent audio capabilities, and Bluetooth connectivity makes it much more attractive. Best Steelseries Arctis 9 Deals 2022 SteelSeries is a worldwide name in Gaming Accessories, which means it can be found at many online retailers. Released with an initial price of $199 in 2020, you can now find the Arctis 9 on Amazon for $149, almost 25% off. This indicates that we may see a 50%-plus discount deal on the product this Black Friday. 13% off the SteelSeries Arctis 7P+ at Amazon 35% off the SteelSeries Arctis Pro+ GameDAC wired headset Save $32 on the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headset at Best Buy 20% off the SteelSeries Arctis 9X headset at Best Buy £50 off the SteelSeries Arctis Pro+ GameDAC wired headset Where to Find the Best Steelseries Arctis 9 deals The SteelSeries Arctis 9 is not a new product in the market and has seen multiple discounts in the last two years. The most significant deals, however, have always been on Black Friday. With the event set to take place on 25th November, keep your wallets ready to avail of amazing deals on Arctis 9. Steelseries Arctis 9 Black Friday Sales Shortlist Alongside the newer and updated SteelSeries products, Arctis 9 is also confirmed to be featured in the Black Friday Sale this year. Online retailers, including Amazon, will feature exclusive discounts on the Arctis 9 and free delivery. Big SteelSeries gaming headset deals at Amazon Black Friday SteelSeries headset deals to grab at Best Buy Best Black Friday SteelSeries saving at Overclockers Curry some favor with the audio gods with the Black Friday SteelSeries gaming headset deals at Currys Give Scan a quick scan for their Black Friday SteelSeries deals Black Friday SteelSeries Arctis 9 Deals SteelSeries’s flagship products may have a different following this Black Friday, but the Arctis 9 headset will attract multiple customers due to its unique features at an affordable price. Because this headset has seen multiple Black Friday discounts, it might get its biggest discount this year. *Prices are subject to change SteelSeries – Arctis 3 Wired Gaming Headset for PlayStation®5 and PlayStation®4 – Black 43% Off SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless DTS Gaming Over-The-Ear Headset for PC, PlayStation 5/4 Save $28 SteelSeries – Arctis 9X Wireless Gaming Headset for Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S, Xbox One Save $9 SteelSeries – Arctis 5 Wired DTS Headphone Gaming Headset for PC and PlayStation 5/4 Save $26 SteelSeries – Arctis 7 Wireless DTS Gaming Over-The-Ear Headset for PC, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 – White Save $18 When Will SteelSeries Arctis 9 Black Friday Sales Start In 2022 With less than 60 days remaining in Black Friday 2022, the hype is becoming stronger and the wait more arduous. Remember that Black Friday has preliminary and closing deals, starting a week before 25th November and ending a week after. So if you find a fantastic deal for the Arctis 9 in the preliminary or concluding sales, do not let the chance go. How to Get the Best SteelSeries Arctis 9 Black Friday Deals In 2022 SteelSeries headphones get great Black Friday deals every year, and 2022 seems no different. With the Arctis 9 headset selling for $149 on Amazon, Black Friday will surely double these discounts. Last year, SteelSeries offered 43% off for gaming Headsets for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. With the addition of new entries to the list, the discounts may also increase.  Amazon proves itself as the biggest online marketplace in the world. Every year, we find the biggest SteelSeries gaming headset deals on Amazon. Don’t forget to check Amazon first-hand for the best deals during the Black Friday event. Even if you’re from the UK and looking for the SteelSeries Arctis 9 or any SteelSeries product at the best discounts, Overclockers has got you covered. Enjoy awesome Black Friday deals for SteelSeries products on the Overclockers website. BestBuy always has something to offer. You can find multiple attractive Black Friday deals for your favorite SteelSeries headsets, including the Arctis 9. QuickScan is another UK-based option for the best Black Friday SteelSeries deals. Features to Consider When Looking For A Black Friday SteelSeries Arctis 9 Deal The Arctis 9 is the ultimate gaming headset for high-fidelity wireless sound, crystal clear voice chat, and total comfort. It was made for console and PC gamers, all the way to those who love to stream on Twitch or YouTube.  Following are the top Features in SteelSeries Arctis 9 that would make you feel proud about your choice: 2.4 GHz wireless technology and Bluetooth, so you can game without wires without latency or interference–you’ll be hearing your opponents before they hear you The built-in Discord-certified microphone has noise cancellation to ensure natural-sounding clarity. Thanks to a lightweight, ergonomic design, it has a 20+ hour battery life, ChatMix controls, and no pinching. Black Friday SteelSeries Arctis 9 Deals FAQs Is the SteelSeries Arctis 9 worth buying? SteelSeries creates some of the best gaming peripherals in the world, and Arctis 9 is no exception. With this stereo gaming headset, you’ll enjoy a wireless experience without missing a beat. Is Arctis 9 a Bluetooth set? It has the best-in-class 2.4 GHz wireless connection and the most advanced microphone. Play your favorite games without any delay or dropouts. WePC is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Crypto In Your 401(K)? A Grace Period For Crypto Exchanges? There Are Bills For That. – Kitco NEWS https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/crypto-in-your-401k-a-grace-period-for-crypto-exchanges-there-are-bills-for-that-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) – Legislative activities related to cryptocurrencies in the U.S. are on the rise as the global push to establish a regulatory framework for crypto and launch central bank digital currencies (CBDC) continues to intensify.  In the U.S. Senate, a new bill has been introduced by Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) that proposes the creation of a safe harbor for cryptocurrency exchanges that might otherwise face legal ramifications for listing unregistered securities.  The text of the bill looks to establish a two-year grace period for crypto exchanges that would protect them from enforcement actions by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for listing tokens deemed to be unregistered securities by the regulating body. The beginning of the grace period starts once the commission makes an official determination that a token is considered unregistered security.  The bill also stipulates that exchanges will not be subject to legal action for failure to register as a broker-dealer or national securities exchange during the grace period.  Eventually, though, all exchanges listing tokens determined to be securities will be required to register as broker-dealers or national securities exchanges. In the event that the bill becomes law, the SEC will still be able to label tokens as unregistered securities via rulemakings, statements and enforcement actions, but the Commodity Futures Trading Commission would have the right to object. Exchanges can also sue to appeal any decisions in court, where a judge would then be tasked with making a ruling on the security status.   The bill faces a tough road ahead; however, as a limited amount of time left in the current legislative session decreases the odds of its passage anytime soon.  Cryptos in your 401(k) A separate piece of legislation recently introduced by three congressional Republicans looks to broaden the type of investments that managers of 401(k)s and other defined contribution plans can make, including the ability to invest in digital assets.  Dubbed ‘The Retirement Savings Modernization Act’, the bill would also allow financial advisors to recommend cryptocurrencies, along with other traditional investment vehicles like private equity or hedge funds, without legal liability.  Outgoing Senate Banking Committee Ranking Member Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), and Rep. Peter Meijer (R-Mich.) are the sponsors of the bill. Statements given by the congressional members with the bill’s introduction cited inflation and “fiscal uncertainty” as the motivation for expanding retirement investment options. Limitations on 401(k) investments were also criticized as reducing the overall returns compared to traditional pensions despite the fact that far more Americans rely on 401(k)s than traditional pensions for their retirement needs.  “Our legislation will provide the millions of American savers invested in defined contribution plans with the option to enhance their retirement savings through access to the same wide range of alternative assets currently available to savers with defined benefit pension plans,” Senator Toomey said. The fate of this bill, too, remains up in the air; however, as Toomey is not running for reelection and Meijer recently lost his primary election to the Republican challenger Jonh Gibbs. There is still the possibility that the bill could be inserted into a broader end-of-year tax bill, but that remains to be seen.    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.

Senators Propose ‘China Grand Strategy’ Commission To Guide US Policy – DefenseNews.com https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/senators-propose-china-grand-strategy-commission-to-guide-us-policy-defensenews-com/ Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, arrives for a meeting on Capitol Hill in 2019. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) WASHINGTON – A bipartisan group of 15 senators is seeking to create a commission tasked with formulating a “grand strategy” on China that avoids conflict with the world’s most populous nation while allowing the U.S. to pursue its interests. Sens. Angus King, I-Maine, John Cornyn, R-Texas, and Tim Kaine, D-Va., said Friday they would introduce legislation to create a China Grand Strategy Commission, which would be given two years to develop a whole-of-government approach guiding Washington’s relationship with Beijing. The senators and their 12 co-sponsors – most of whom sit on the Armed Services Committee – hope to file the bill as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act, which the Senate is expected to begin debating in October. “It would harness the smartest public and private sector minds to study and evaluate on how our nations interact – striking the balance between avoiding conflict and fully pursuing our national interest,” King said in a statement. “Most vitally, this commission isn’t putting a report on a shelf to collect dust; it will make actionable recommendations to develop a grand strategy across the entire government.” The proposed commission would mirror the two-year Cyberspace Solarium Commission, established in the 2019 NDAA. King served as co-chair of that panel, which put forward 80 recommendations on improving U.S. cybersecurity. The Maine senator has said that 85% of those recommendations have been fully or partially implemented. Both commissions are molded after former president Dwight Eisenhower’s Project Solarium, which developed a U.S. grand strategy vis-à-vis the Soviet Union. Like the cyberspace commission, the China commissioners would include lawmakers, executive branch officials and private sector experts. The proposed China commission would consist of 18 members” two co-chairs agreed upon by Congress and the president and drawn from commissioners comprised of two senators, two House members, six executive branch officials and eight individuals from the private sector. A summary of the legislation from King’s office says that the commission would develop “a holistic approach” across the federal government while “defining specific steps necessary to build a stable international order that accounts for the People’s Republic of China participation in that order.” It would be tasked with developing “actionable recommendations” aimed at protecting and strengthening U.S. national security interests. House China Task Force Republicans this month vowed to establish a select committee on China if they win the House in November’s midterm elections. House Republicans already established their own China Task Force in 2020, which Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Democrats declined to join after accusing former president Donald Trump of scapegoating Beijing for his mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the House’s China Task Force remains partisan, it has advanced proposals with bipartisan support among its hundreds of recommendations. These include the $52 billion in semiconductor subsidies and tax incentives that Congress passed in July to encourage manufacturers to develop chips in the U.S. instead of China and other Asian countries as part of a broader effort to shore up the U.S. defense industrial base. Congress also mandated in 2000 the creation of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, which is tasked with submitting an extensive annual report on the national security implications of the economic and trade ties between Washington and Beijing. Bryant Harris is the Congress reporter for Defense News. He has covered U.S. foreign policy, national security, international affairs and politics in Washington since 2014. He has also written for Foreign Policy, Al-Monitor, Al Jazeera English and IPS News.

Mortgage Tech News Roundup: Sept. 30 – Mortgage Professional https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/mortgage-tech-news-roundup-sept-30-mortgage-professional/ Partnerships, integrations, venture capital and more PNC Bank linked with Blend to improve its online mortgage application process. VeriFast raised money to help accelerate its expansion into mortgage underwriting. InstaMortgage and Milestones are partnering to help consumers better understand the value of their property. Snapdocs integrated with BeSmartee to help boost the mortgage closing experience for borrowers. Constellation Mortgage Solutions unveiled a new mortgage loan origination system. PNC Bank/Blend PNC Bank linked with Blend to improve its online mortgage application process. Blend is the developer of a digital lending platform. PNC said that its beefed-up mortgage application platform lets customers digitally apply for a mortgage and import bank or payroll information directly into their application just by providing their necessary credentials. This reduces how long it takes to locate necessary documents, according to the bank. After customers submit their applications, they have a single portal they use to track its status, complete outstanding tasks, and also review and electronically sign loan documentation. Read more: Mortgage tech news roundup: Sept. 23 In addition, PNC mortgage loan officers can use their online portal to collaborate in real time with customers. “As an organization, our goal is to continue to partner with companies across the country to build the digital-first future of financial services,” Erik Wrobel, Blend’s head of Product, said in prepared remarks. VeriFast Fintech startup VeriFast raised a $3.5 million seed funding that will help accelerate its expansion into mortgage underwriting. The startup’s software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform relies on AI to automate financial analysis and decision making for tenant screening, mortgage underwriting and other verticals. M3 Financial group, HGTV star and real estate investor Scott McGillivray, Michael Sarracini of Keyspire and “Millionaire Mom” investor Susan White Livermore led the round. “We are … experiencing rapid [product] adoption with mortgage lenders who want to digitize and streamline their pre-approval and underwriting process,” VeriFast co-founder Tim Ray said in prepared remarks. Ray added that by doing so, the technology can reduce labor costs and quicken the approval process by up to 90%. VeriFast’s technology uses a single-source configurable API (which helps two systems link and talk to each other) to integrate biometric identity information, banking data, payroll insights and tax transcript data to customers’ existing processes. InstaMortgage/Milestones InstaMortgage and Milestones are partnering to help consumer better understand the value of their property as well as financial scenarios for refinancing and home equity borrowing. Milestones focuses on a homeowner portal designed to help consumers more easily buy, move, sell, manage, and access mortgages for their home. InstaMortgage is a technology-driven mortgage lender licensed in 27 states. Milestones’ platform monitors the value of a home, provides search options for homes for sale, and manages the selling and mortgage processes.  As part of the partnership, InstaMortgage will make Milestones client portfolios available to consumers for free through its own platform. Loan officers, through Milestones, can invite clients into web-based homeownership hubs to manage home maintenance, view home values, monitor home sales in their area, search for property, and identify mortgage refinance or trade in options. “More than ever, it is critical for mortgage companies to identify opportunities for engaging their existing and prospective customers in new, creative ways,” InstaMortgage Chief Lending Officer Jim Black said in prepared remarks. Snapdos/BeSmartee Snapdocs integrated with BeSmartee to help boost the mortgage closing experience for borrowers. Snapdocs developed a digital closing platform, and BeSmartee is marketing a web-based digital mortgage platform for banks, credit unions and non-bank lending institutions. Specifically, the integration is designed to drive faster closing times and reduce operating costs, with American BancShares among the first customers to use the integration. It relies in part on machine learning to automate and streamline the borrower’s closing document review and signature steps. The idea is that by taking manual administrative tasks away, the process will be more efficient and loan officers can support more homebuyers through the mortgage process. Snapdocs’ multi-party workflow engine is also a key element. Constellation Mortgage Solutions Constellation Mortgage Solutions (CMS) recently rolled out a new mortgage loan origination system. Read next: Mortgage tech news roundup: Sept. 16 Dubbed NOVA, the company is pitching the platform as making loan originations “fun again” through an intuitive user experience that also provides ease of access via the web from any work environment. The cloud-based platform is built with a dynamic user interface experience, the company said. NOVA is quick, provides automation of many processes, and enables customizable workflows. It offers easy integrations, according to CMS. “It’s not often that the mortgage industry makes great strides forward in technology, but with NOVA, we have developed a platform that changes the industry from a sales, operations and executive perspective,” Stephen Ryczek, Constellation’s president, said in prepared remarks. Plans call for CMS to debut NOVA through several live demos at the MBA Annual Conference in Nashville in October. Free e-newsletter Our daily newsletter is FREE and keeps you up to date with the world of mortgage. Please complete the form below and click on SIGN UP to receive daily e-newsletters from Mortgage Professional.

Local San Antonio Man Wants To Get Paid To Annoy Your Unsavory House Guests – MySA https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/local-san-antonio-man-wants-to-get-paid-to-annoy-your-unsavory-house-guests-mysa/ Do you have pesky in-laws, a boorish acquaintance, or someone in your life you always feel obligated to invite to the function? Are you getting sick of it? Have you had enough? If so, the author of a recent local Craigslist service wants to come to your aid.  Twelve days ago, a San Antonio man took to the website to offer a uniquely heroic service to the Bexar County area.  His name is “Annoying Man,” or at least that’s what he’d like you to call him. According to his appeal, Annoying Man charges $50 per hour to irritate your secretly unwanted house guests at parties, gatherings, and events. Annoying Man claims to have 50 plus years of experience annoying the people around him, so the fee roughly translates to a dollar per year of expertise.  “I am an expert at being the person that you do not want to be around. I do not harass, use racial slurs or say anything that could cause me bodily harm. I am subtle, but effective,” he assures potential clients. “When my job is done, your targets will never want to return.” In his 683-word pitch to the public, Annoying Man goes on to describe various scenarios he will insert himself in to effectively get under the skin of your guests. Sure he will wear an outfit that is appropriate for your event, but it will be slightly askew somehow.  “For example, I may wear shorts in the middle of winter or don a brash rugby shirt at a baptism,” he pens. “I also have many rayon ties and all of them are clip-ons.” Annoying Man claims one of his favorite tactics is introducing himself with a name that seems completely fake but plausibly real, like “Hans” or “Willy.” If someone recently passed away, he suggests you call him by the name of the deceased loved one.  Annoying Man will choose a dish at your potluck to hog and limply grip a crumpled, dirty napkin in his hand while talking to your “target.” He will talk politics without going “full MAGA” but is happy to talk “doomsday prepping” and “DeSantis.” He might break into a “few stanzas” of a Phil Collins song and get the lyrics slightly wrong. He requests you serve some sort of mouth-staining red beverage while he is at work so he “achieve a Joker-like appearance.” He will gesticulate while saying outrageous things like “just because I made it up doesn’t mean its true!” He will show your target photos he took of mushrooms found in his backyard.  A Castilian Spanish speaker, he will also speak the language with a “gringo accent” to “injure the ears of any native speaker.” He will say “playdoh” instead of “puedo.” The listing goes on to include even more potential annoyances.  “I will never admit to knowing you and will gracefully leave when asked. I do reserve the right to exit upon threat of violence. Minimum 4 hours, payment in advance, no refunds,” the service listing concludes.  If you ask me, I’d say that Annoying Man’s Larry David-esque propositions sound reasonably effective. I’d even say that through this lens, he even sounds pretty charming.  If a bevy of unwanted party guests is something that you are currently grappling with, consider yourself informed about this new and exciting service now available to residents in the Bexar County area.

21 Pro Budget Travel Tips Expert Travelers Use All The Time – The Points Guy https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/21-pro-budget-travel-tips-expert-travelers-use-all-the-time-the-points-guy/ Budget blues got you down? We feel you. Inflation, along with high fuel and airline ticket costs, can send a chill through the plans of even the most intrepid traveler. However, even with a relatively small budget, you can still plan a great getaway. Vacations on a budget require planning, but in the world of points and miles, planning is our middle name. Sign up for our daily newsletter In addition to using reserves of points and miles to book hotels and airfare, TPGers have a myriad of budget travel tips to help stretch their dollar when traveling. Here are the top budgeting tips from TPG staffers and the TPG community for vacationing on a budget and getting the most out of the funds you set aside for your trip. Related: 31 travel tips to keep your trip on track and on budget Budget travel tips for road trips Use membership codes to save on car rentals If you’re a member of AAA or AARP, have a Costco membership, are a veteran or work for a large company with a car rental discount code, pull all of these levers. You might be eligible for discount codes you didn’t even know about. Look beyond traditional car rental companies and locations Most people search for rentals at the airport with the standard companies. If you don’t find good results, consider off-airport locations or try alternatives like Kyte, Turo or Silvercar. Related: Delta and Turo launch partnership, allowing travelers to earn 2,000 SkyMiles on first rental Check credit card merchant offers Take time before booking your trip to go through your credit cards’ special merchant offers. There are multiple issuers that offer this option (although Amex is a leader in the category). Every program works similarly: Log into your card account online or through your banking app, review the offers available to you, add the ones you want and make a qualifying purchase using the card for which the offer is registered. There are no promo codes to enter at online checkout and no coupons to print to take to the register. There may be offers you can activate that will provide discounts on dining, gas and entertainment. Related: Extreme couponing: How credit card merchant offers can save you hundreds of dollars every year Take advantage of free days at national parks Every year the U.S. National Park Service sets aside several days where entry is completely free, including Martin Luther King Day in January, the first day of National Park Week in April, National Public Lands Day on the fourth Saturday in September and Veterans Day in November. Visiting a national park on one of the NPS’ free entry days can save you up to $35 per vehicle at some of the most popular national parks such as Glacier National Park and the Grand Canyon. Stay outside the national parks You might be dreaming of a night in a rustic cabin inside a national park, but getting that reservation could be challenging or costly, especially if you’re unable to pay for it with points. However, just beyond the park, there’s probably a hotel you can pay for with points. For example, the SpringHill Suites just outside of Zion National Park is a great property if you have Marriott points to spend. Related: The best campgrounds, hotels and lodges near Yellowstone National Park Download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app If you’re a T-Mobile user, you’re in luck — this app is a major perk that will put money in your pocket just for checking your phone on Tuesdays. To participate, download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app, check the app on Tuesday and claim your discount code. We’ve seen weekly discounts offered on everything from rental cars to gas to hotels to theme park tickets. Related: T-Mobile expands travel-focused Coverage Beyond benefits Get discounted gas at Shell through the Fuel Rewards app At TPG we love to stack savings, and the Shell Fuel Rewards app is a good one to pile on the discounts. You can link it to other loyalty programs, including AAdvantage, Giant-Stop & Shop, Advance Auto and others to receive more discounts. Also, if you purchase through Fuel Rewards, link to partner retailers such as PetCo, Bed Bath & Beyond, Office Depot/Office Max and many others to save even more. Don’t forget to use a credit card that gives bonus points or discounts at gas stations for even more savings. TPG likes the Citi Premier® Card, which awards 3 ThankYou points per dollar at gas stations or the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express which also gives 3% back at U.S. gas stations. Both cards are on our list of best credit cards for gas. Related: These are the best credit cards for gas purchases Budget travel tips for food and entertainment Save on theater tickets in New York and London If you’re traveling to New York City or London, check TodayTix for ridiculously cheap Broadway and West End tickets. The TodayTix app acts as a digital rush with discounted tickets to a variety of shows available. Prices vary, but most of the top shows currently playing are available on the site and the app. While not all shows are hugely discounted, TodayTix often runs no-fee promotions. Keep in mind, though, that for some shows, you won’t be able to choose your precise ticket location. Instead, you will pick a section you’d like to sit in. Related: On with the show! How to get a great deal on Broadway tickets Save entrance fees with Bank of America Bank of America cardholders can enjoy free general admission to more than 225 cultural institutions in dozens of U.S. cities on the first weekend of every month just by showing their cards. Related: 5 reasons to get the Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card Use your library card for museum entry Another way to get free museum admission is with a library “lending ticket” — a program where libraries will lend museum passes for a set amount of time. Also, check if your local museum’s membership comes with ROAM (a reciprocity program across North America). It’s an easy way to get maximum value out of a regional (and usually less expensive) membership. Take a free walking tour Sign up for a free walking tour on your first day in a new city. It’s an inexpensive way to learn about the city and orient yourself. Look online for options before traveling and sign up in advance if necessary. Then, all you need to do is show up with comfortable shoes and enjoy your free tour. Although tipping is suggested, you’ll spend a lot less, even after generously tipping your guide, than a standard tour option. You will likely also meet other like-minded travelers, which can be welcome if you’re traveling alone or looking to make new friends. If you’re interested in seeing what’s available on your next trip, Google the city you’ll visit and the phrase “free walking tour” to see what comes up. Dine on the cheap with Seated Here’s a fun one: The Seated app allows you to dine out and get paid for it. The app rewards diners who sign up and eat at designated restaurants with cash they can redeem in the form of gift cards. All you have to do is let the app know you’ll be dining at a location before you take a seat. Check out the details here. Budget travel tips for flights and hotels Fly weekdays Flexibility on which days you fly is one of the keys to getting the best airfare prices. Leisure travelers most commonly book weekend flights while many business travelers travel on Monday. So, the midweek days — Tuesday and Wednesday — have lower demand and are therefore the best days to travel for lower prices. Book vacation packages Airlines that bundle airfare and hotels as vacation packages can offer better deals thanks to their vast buying power and inventory, TPG managing editor Clint Henderson says. These bundles can offer savings of up to 40% off. Also, purchasing directly from the airline gives you a one-stop shopping experience; you can even add a car and activities to your trip at the same time. Plus, you’ll often be able to take advantage of special sales and bonus points-and-miles offers. Use a price monitoring tool Airline fare monitoring sites such as Hopper and Google Flights ensure you’re getting notifications when the best and lowest prices become available for your trip. Set up as many different combinations as you’re considering, including different departure and return dates, so you can get alerts for all possible fare reductions. Be flexible on destination If you’re not locked into a fall or winter vacation location (like you would be for a destination wedding or family reunion that you can’t change), try an alternative to find better prices. For example, if you want old-world charm, consider subbing out Quebec City for Paris. For scuba diving enthusiasts, skip the expensive long-haul flight to Australia and the Great Barrier Reef and instead head to the second largest barrier reef in the world in easy-to-access Belize. Hold your deal If you see a great deal but you’re not ready to book yet, hold it. For example, Hopper’s Price Freeze allows you to lock in the price of a flight for up to seven days so you to take more time to finalize plans before you book. Some airlines will also let you hold flights for a small fee (and remember that all airlines by law allow you to hold and cancel a flight booking within 24 hours without penalty as long as you book more than seven days in advance). Reprice your flights and hotels As long as you’ve booked a hotel, car or flight that can be canceled without penalty, you should make it part of your weekly routine to check for price drops; then, if you find a lower price, rebook. You can use these same rebooking strategies with points to make dynamic pricing work in your favor for hotel stays so you can save on award nights. Related: How I saved 33,500 points on upcoming hotel stays Consider alternate a...

AP Top Business News At 8:13 A.m. EDT – WTMJ https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/ap-top-business-news-at-813-a-m-edt-wtmj/ AP Top Business News at 8:13 a.m. EDT  WTMJ

ACTIVE AGING WEEK BEGINS OCTOBER 3 THROUGH PARKS AND RECREATION – City Of Fort Wayne https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/active-aging-week-begins-october-3-through-parks-and-recreation-city-of-fort-wayne/ September 30, 2022 – As wellness and healthy living become increasingly important priorities for all populations, the 20th annual Active Aging Week October 3-7 treats older adults throughout North America to a broad array of exciting opportunities that promote physical, mental and social health. Initiated by the International Council on Active Aging® (ICAA) in 2003, Active Aging Week (AAW) highlights the value of embracing all dimensions of wellness – including physical, emotional, intellectual, social and more – to enrich quality of life. Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel emphasizes that “the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Community Center offers a variety of local activities to engage and empower older adults as part of a broader effort to redefine how we experience and perceive aging.” He adds, “it’s just an exceptional way to enjoy friendly competition as well.” “Our industry continues to evolve approaches that encompass the longer health spans, extended work lives and active lifestyles of older adults,” says Colin Milner, founder and CEO of ICAA. “During Active Aging Week, we celebrate the contributions and potential of older adults in pursuing purpose-filled lives and fostering vibrant communities.” This year, as part of AAW, the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Community Center is hosting healthy, friendly, competitive fun for those who are age 50 and above. Participants choose up to 14 completely free events such as cornhole, kayaking, golf, billiards, disc golf, table tennis, Bocce, Wii tournament and more. To sign up, just call 260-427-6460 or stop by the Community Center located at 233 West Main Street. Please register at least two days prior to the scheduled event. A full listing of the tournaments and all activities is in the Fall edition of the Fun Times. You can also find the listing online on page 47 at https://www.fortwayneparks.org/images/stories/funtimes/Fall_22_Interactive.pdf. The Fort Wayne Active Aging Week is sponsored by American Senior Communities, Anthem, North Senior Living, Oak Street Health, Evergreen Village At Fort Wayne, Ossian Health, Silver Birch, Englewood Health, Chapman Place Senior Living, Hearing Aids Plus, Majestic Care of Fort Wayne and New Haven, Life Care Center of Fort Wayne and Nine Mile Restaurant.

Fantasy Baseball Today: Francisco Alvarez Gets The Call For Mets-Braves; Jarred Kelenic Finding A Groove – CBS Sports https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/fantasy-baseball-today-francisco-alvarez-gets-the-call-for-mets-braves-jarred-kelenic-finding-a-groove-cbs-sports/ Happy Friday, everyone! We get our first taste of playoff baseball atmosphere tonight — no it’s not actually the playoffs — but Braves vs. Mets is as close to it as can be. These teams are playing for high stakes as far as how their playoff blueprint will map out. And that’s important. We’ll be on the lookout for that, Aaron Judge’s chase for another homer and a lot more on the last Friday slate of the regular season. We’ll dive into some of the key action from Thursday, but first, make sure you’re all caught up on everything Scott White is cooking up over at CBSSports.com/Fantasy. Scott is already getting started on his 2023 rankings pieces and he has kicked things off with his top-20 catcher rankings. It’s always a fun read to check out rankings this early, but I also always find it helpful to keep my mind sharp and get an idea of which players to follow throughout the offseason. Scott is bullish on Adley Rutschman and has him ranked No. 4: “It took him a couple months to get acclimated, but once the rookie began walking like he did in the minors (say, July 1 on), he was about an .850 OPS guy, which would be good enough to lead the position most years. The power only figures to improve, and the Orioles have already shown a willingness to DH him on his “off” days.” Sean Murphy cracked the top 10 at No. 9 after his strong finish to the season: “It’s been a bumpy ride for Murphy since reaching the majors, but he began to live up to his potential over the final two-thirds of the season, shaving 10 percentage points of his strikeout rate to bring the batting average up around .280. He could be traded this offseason, which would further enhance his value.” MJ Melendez is a catcher I can see myself targeting and he just cracked Scott’s top 12 at No. 12: “Melendez’s rookie season was a mixed bag, highlighted by plus plate discipline and strong exit velocity readings. Most impressive, though, was the Royals‘ commitment to playing him alongside Salvy Perez, having the rookie spend much of his time in the outfield.” Mets get potentially big boost The New York Mets made a massive decision on Thursday to call up their top prospect in baseball — catcher Francisco Alvarez — ahead of this pivotal series against Atlanta. The 20-year-old righty hit .260 with a whopping 27 homers and an .885 OPS across 112 minor league games (45 of those at Triple A). As of now, the Mets are expected to hit Alvarez against left-handed pitching. That means he’ll get his opportunity this weekend against Max Fried, currently the only left-handed starter slated to pitch against the Mets in this series. A much-improved Kelenic? Jarred Kelenic has been up and down in the minors and majors this season, but he may finally be catching a groove and we’re excited to see it play out through the remainder of the season. On Thursday, Kelenic hit two home runs and he now has three homers since returning from the minors. In just seven games, he has struck out just five times. The strikeouts were a major issue for Kelenic before his last demotion. He is also batting .320 and looks like a clearly more confident batter in the box. Fantasy news, injuries and notes For a complete recap of every injury, update and more, make sure you’re locked into the Fantasy Baseball Today podcast where Frank, Scott and Chris dive deep into every player note. For the CliffsNotes version, we’ll recap the biggest news and notes you need to know right here: Julio Rodriguez returned to baseball activities Thursday and continues to aim for Monday activation when first eligible.  Scott has Julio Rodriguez first overall in his early 2023 two-round mock. Tony Gonsolin is set to return Monday against the Rockies (in LA). He only pitched two innings in his lone rehab start.  Trevor Story is dealing with an illness and is unlikely to play again this season. Corey Seager has missed two straight after being hit by a pitch on his forearm Tuesday.  Sixto Sanchez will undergo shoulder surgery on Monday. The expectation remains that Sanchez will be ready for spring training. He hasn’t pitched since September of 2020.  Michael Brantley said that he should be ready to resume full baseball activities by spring training. He was limited to just 64 games due to a shoulder injury. Zach Plesac had his start pushed back to Saturday with Aaron Civale starting Friday.  The great Connor Joe was placed on the IL with a shoulder strain. Matt Manning was placed on the 60-day IL with a right forearm strain. It’s unknown whether Manning will be available when spring training starts.  Guardians catcher prospect Bo Naylor was promoted to their taxi squad, which sounds like he could get a cup of coffee here in the majors. His numbers in the 2022 minors: .263, 21 HR, 20 SB, .888 OPS over 118 games (66 in AAA).

XT.COM Lists Q2 In Its Main Metaverse Zone – Investing News Network https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/xt-com-lists-q2-in-its-main-metaverse-zone-investing-news-network/ East Side Games Group (TSX: EAGR) (OTC: EAGRF) (” ESGG ” or the ” Company “), Canada’s leading free-to-play mobile game group, in collaboration with Universal Games and Digital Platforms, announced today the worldwide launch of The Office: Somehow We Manage on iOS and Android. The free-to-play idle game is inspired by NBC’s critically acclaimed, Emmy® Award-winning U.S. version of The Office which is now streaming exclusively on Peacock. Watch the launch trailer here .

How To Make Better Coffee, Whether Pour-Over, Cold Brew Or Keurig – The Washington Post https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/how-to-make-better-coffee-whether-pour-over-cold-brew-or-keurig-the-washington-post/ The body of knowledge around coffee seems to grow exponentially every year, as the industry continues to roll out new brewers (sometimes to fix a problem created by a brewer from the prehistoric era of, say, 2005) or just develops more gadgets to separate coffee geeks from their money. (One peek into my kitchen cabinets, and you can tell who’s a sucker for gadgetry.) But here’s the thing about gadgets: No Japanese Origami dripper, no sleek high-tech grinder, no pouring tool and no temperature-controlled goose-neck kettle can overcome a batch of inferior beans. As James Hoffmann, managing director of Square Mile Coffee Roasters in East London and a general authority on the subject, writes in his latest volume, “The Best Coffee at Home”: Depending on your method, you should use beans four to five days after they’ve been roasted (for filter coffee) or seven to eight days after the roast (for espresso). But either way, once you’ve opened the bag, you should plan to use it up within two weeks. It’s safe to say, you won’t consistently find these kind of freshly roasted beans at supermarkets, even at Whole Foods. Which is why you need to frequent, and befriend the team, at your local roastery. They’ll make sure you start with the freshest beans, often sourced from small farms or collectives that have developed close relationships with roasters. Over the years, I’ve written a lot about brewing coffee at home and my relationship with the drink. As we head into the cooler months, I thought it would a good time to collect these articles on a single page, for easy reference if nothing else. My knowledge, like the industry’s, has evolved, which is just another way of saying that I might approach some of these stories differently in 2022. But I think they still give you an idea of how different brewers, techniques, beans, water temperatures, roast levels and more can affect what you taste in the cup. The stories may not change how you brew coffee at home, and that’s cool. If I’ve learned one thing about coffee over the years, it’s this: People love to fight for their right to enjoy a dark-roast blend that’s been reduced to mud after an hour on the warming plate of a Mr. Coffee. And you know what? They’re right. Coffee is one of the most personal things you consume, day in and day out. It should be prepared just as you like it. How to brew better coffee at home and save money in 5 easy steps: You don’t have to be a barista to make better coffee. With just a small investment in equipment — you don’t need a scale or thermometer! — and a little bit of time, you can turn your morning cup into something appreciably better than what you can make from a cheap drip coffee maker or a Keurig. How to hack your Keurig machine and get a better cup of coffee: Speaking of the Keurig, the popular push-bottom brewer may be anathema to specialty-coffee snobs, but, as we discover, you can improve the machine’s performance with a few important alterations. I thought cold brew coffee wasn’t worth a hill of beans until I used the right ones: Cold brew is a divisive subject among coffee lovers for one reason: Steeping ground beans in cold (or room temperature) water doesn’t extract the same flavors as steeping them in hot water. The cold-brew process produces a cup that’s sweeter and rounder, for sure, but usually at the expense of acids and other flavor compounds that give coffee depth and balance. These two recipes, however, produce a coffee that has more complexity than your typical cold brew. Each coffee brewing method has pros and cons. We tried 5 to help you find your perfect cup. No two coffee brewers are alike, even when using the same beans. Each will extract different flavors. Each will result in a different viscosity, or weight, which you can sense on the tongue. Which is why it’s important to find the brewer that best suits your tastes. (By the way, if you’re curious, Mia Farrow went with the Chemex.) How to make an excellent coffee pour-over and start your day right: Do you consider making coffee by hand a hassle? This streamlined recipe delivers many of the benefits of pour-over coffee without all the equipment and fuss. The recipe also suggests you can treat the morning ritual more like a meditation, one that results in a stimulant, the perfect combination to start any day. Coffee at home: Experiments in brewing. You might wonder why there are so many coffee brewers on the market, some that require no skill and some that take weeks to master. We take you through the pros and cons of nine brewing systems, whether a French press or a cool Japanese siphon that requires a small butane burner. You might find one that aligns with your daily habits and needs. Coffee is not just a drug to make us good worker bees. It’s a pleasure. No matter how you brew coffee, you shouldn’t treat the drink as if its sole purpose is to prepare you for another day on the hamster wheel. Kick back. Hold a warm cup between your hands. Enjoy it for what it is: One of life’s great pleasures.

First Mover Americas: Bitcoin To Post Sixth Straight September Loss, But LINK And UNI Manage Gains – CoinDesk https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/first-mover-americas-bitcoin-to-post-sixth-straight-september-loss-but-link-and-uni-manage-gains-coindesk/ Lyllah Ledesma is a CoinDesk Markets reporter currently based in Europe. She holds bitcoin, ether and small amounts of other crypto assets. Omkar Godbole was a senior reporter on CoinDesk’s Markets team. Price Point: September has been a historically bad month for bitcoin, which posted losses for the last five years. Is October’s record better? Market Moves: Bitcoin’s bullish seasonality might be muddled by the continued slide in the USD Liquidity Index. Chart of the Day: Cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase’s stock (COIN) debuted on Nasdaq in April 2021. Since then, the share price has been in a steady downtrend. This article originally appeared in First Mover, CoinDesk’s daily newsletter putting the latest moves in crypto markets in context. Subscribe to get it in your inbox every day. Bitcoin (BTC) was trading flat on the day after a choppy week of price movement. The world’s largest cryptocurrency by market value has traded in a range of $18,500-$20,380 over the week. After a painful week for both equities and government bonds, both markets posted modest gains. Historically, September has been a bad month for bitcoin, with the crypto showing negative returns in each of the last five years. The string continued in 2022, with bitcoin lower by 2.95% for the month at press time. October, however, has a better historical record, with bitcoin posting gains in seven of the last nine years. (Bitcoin monthly returns via Crypto Finance AG) Ethereum (ETH) was also trading flat on Friday at around $1,337 and has lost 13% over the month. Managing gains in September were the token of decentralized oracle network Chainlink (LINK), which advanced 17%, and Uniswap’s UNI which was up 6%. “For Chainlink, the narrative that’s driving price performance is the partnership with SWIFT on a cross-chain interoperability protocol,” said Nauman Sheikh, Head of Treasury Management and Derivatives at Wave Financial, in an interview with CoinDesk. “For UNI, it’s the continued growth in market share and volume along with being regarded as a long-term deep value play,” said Sheikh. Caution is warranted, though, suggested Sheikh. “Given the macro environment, we can expect these outperforming tokens to quickly succumb to profit-taking, especially if bitcoin and ethereum begin to sell off more aggressively,” he said. CoinDesk’s Omkar Godbole reported XRP and MKR, (the governance token of the peer-to-peer lending platform Maker), are rallying in an otherwise quiet crypto sector as markets await the release of the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of U.S. inflation: the Core Personal Consumption Expenditure Index (PCE). In other news, Spain’s largest telecom company Telefónica invested in local crypto exchange Bit2Me and will begin accepting crypto for payments. Meanwhile, a study by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision finds the world’s largest banks are exposed to about 9.4 billion euros ($9 billion) of crypto assets. Biggest Gainers Biggest Losers Sector classifications are provided via the Digital Asset Classification Standard (DACS), developed by CoinDesk Indices to provide a reliable, comprehensive and standardized classification system for digital assets. The CoinDesk Market Index (CMI) is a broad-based index designed to measure the market capitalization weighted performance of the digital asset market subject to minimum trading and exchange eligibility requirements. Bitcoin’s Bullish Seasonality Muddled by Continued Slide in ‘USD Liquidity Index’ October has been a good month for bitcoin (BTC) and traders may be looking forward to capitalizing on the bullish seasonality, having seen the cryptocurrency hold steady through recent traditional market turmoil. Bitcoin has put in a positive performance in October in eight out of the past 12 years, with an average return of around 30% according to historical data sourced from charting platform TradingView. In other words, October has generated positive returns 66% of the time. However, one indicator tracking the U.S. dollar liquidity calls for caution on the part of the bulls. The so-called USD Liquidity Condition Index has slipped to a 19-month low of $5.7 trillion, according to chart provided by TradingView. “The Fed net [dollar] liquidity is falling off a cliff, a clear headwind for crypto asset prices,” Lewis Harland, a researcher at Decentral Park Capital, said in a daily market update. The index assesses the degree of dollar liquidity based on the interaction of three factors – the size of the Federal Reserve’s balance sheet, the Treasury General Account (TGA) and the reverse repo balance held at the New York Fed. The liquidity declines when the Fed’s balance sheet contracts, the TGA and repo balances rise. On the contrary, an expansion of the Fed’s balance sheet and a decline in the TGA and repo balances indicates an uptick in the dollar liquidity. Read the full story here. COIN’s recent consolidation has taken the shape of a bearish price pattern. (TradingView) Cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase’s stock (COIN) debuted on Nasdaq in April 2021. Since then, the share price has been in a steady downtrend. Recently, a bear flag has emerged on COIN’s daily price chart, hinting at a potential move lower. “We remain cautious of the bear flag in COIN,” Rob Ginsberg, senior analyst at Wolfe Research, said in a technical analysis note to clients. “A breakdown through channel support seems more than likely.” Sign up for Market Wrap, our daily newsletter explaining what happened today in crypto markets – and why. By signing up, you will receive emails about CoinDesk product updates, events and marketing and you agree to our terms of services and privacy policy. DISCLOSURE Please note that our privacy policy, terms of use, cookies, and do not sell my personal information has been updated . The leader in news and information on cryptocurrency, digital assets and the future of money, CoinDesk is a media outlet that strives for the highest journalistic standards and abides by a strict set of editorial policies. CoinDesk is an independent operating subsidiary of Digital Currency Group, which invests in cryptocurrencies and blockchain startups. As part of their compensation, certain CoinDesk employees, including editorial employees, may receive exposure to DCG equity in the form of stock appreciation rights, which vest over a multi-year period. CoinDesk journalists are not allowed to purchase stock outright in DCG . Lyllah Ledesma is a CoinDesk Markets reporter currently based in Europe. She holds bitcoin, ether and small amounts of other crypto assets. Omkar Godbole was a senior reporter on CoinDesk’s Markets team. Lyllah Ledesma is a CoinDesk Markets reporter currently based in Europe. She holds bitcoin, ether and small amounts of other crypto assets. Omkar Godbole was a senior reporter on CoinDesk’s Markets team.

U.S. CFTC Must Seek Admissions Of Wrongdoing From Wall Street, Commissioner Says – Reuters https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/u-s-cftc-must-seek-admissions-of-wrongdoing-from-wall-street-commissioner-says-reuters/ WASHINGTON, Sept 30 (Reuters) – Wall Street companies and others that break the rules should be required to admit their wrongdoing when settling enforcement actions, especially as the growth of retail investing puts more Americans at risk, a U.S. regulator told Reuters. Christy Goldsmith Romero, a commissioner at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), said she planned to use her vote on enforcement actions to push for more admissions of wrongdoing, particularly from repeat-offender Wall Street companies. “We’ve seen Wall Street banks get one enforcement action after another, after another, after another and the deterrence doesn’t seem to be working, so I’m looking for a greater deterrent impact,” she told Reuters on Thursday. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com “If a defendant has to admit to their conduct and suffer the full consequences, maybe they won’t engage in the same conduct.” On Tuesday, the CFTC and the Securities and Exchange Commission fined 16 financial firms, including Bank of America, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, a combined $1.8 billion because staff used personal devices to discuss trades and deals, violating record-keeping rules. In a victory for the agencies, the 16 institutions admitted the facts and acknowledged that they violated federal laws. But that’s unusual. It is common for civil regulators to include language in settlements requiring the company “neither admit nor deny” the agency’s findings, a clause that protects the company from private litigation, among other adverse secondary consequences. Goldsmith Romero, who joined the CFTC in March after a decade serving as the watchdog of a key 2009 financial crisis bailout program, said the CFTC was “routinely” agreeing to include the wording in settlements without negotiation. “Why are we doing that? Consequences often flow from illegal conduct, and I don’t think it’s the government’s job to alleviate those consequences.” The CFTC should push for admissions of wrongdoing in cases of egregious conduct, recidivism, or where the agency needs to send a message about a particular issue, among other factors, she said. Growing retail participation in the markets increases the need for greater accountability and deterrence, she added. “Particularly as we have crypto and other digital asset retail products coming in, I think it’s going to be incredibly important that we require defendant admissions.” The CFTC’s sitting commissioners vote to approve enforcement settlements. “I am hopeful that there will be change, but I am going to use my vote to try to bring change as well,” said Goldsmith Romero. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Michelle Price; editing by Jonathan Oatis Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

Alkami And Segmint Urge Financial Institutions To Drive Growth With Data In 2023 – PR Newswire https://bexarcountynewsonline.com/alkami-and-segmint-urge-financial-institutions-to-drive-growth-with-data-in-2023-pr-newswire/ New 2023 Strategy Guide offers 4 data-driven strategies to combat 7 challenges FIs face today , /PRNewswire/ — Alkami Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALKT) (“Alkami”), a leading cloud-based digital banking solutions provider for banks and credit unions in the U.S., and its data analytics and engagement solution, Segmint, have released their 2023 Strategy Guide, Navigating The Economic Impact: 2023 FI Budgeting & Data Strategies, to give FIs actionable strategies they can employ now to deepen and grow account holder relationships and drive revenue growth in 2023. The guide highlights seven economic challenges for the financial industry that will guide best practices for 2023, including: The home and personal loans rollercoaster, with a drop in mortgage originations of 32% YOY and a hit to personal loans due to the rise in interest rates Inflation’s effect on credit cards and the fact that 62% of card holders have taken some “new action” with their cards as a result of inflation, and 78% have potentially costly knowledge gaps in how credit cards work The shift to a Subscription Economy, with 75% of companies who sell direct to consumers planning to offer subscription services by 2023 The rise in the use of Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services, as 43% of Americans have used a BNPL service, up from 31% in 2021, further eroding loyalty to their financial institutions The growing popularity of cryptocurrency, with 44% of executives at financial institutions planning to offer cryptocurrency services to clients by the end of 2022 Generational trends toward use of neobanks, big tech and fintechs, jeopardizing the relationship with younger account holders The explosion of data, with 2.5 quintillion bytes of data generated each day “FIs can turn these obstacles into opportunities with a well-planned data strategy,” said Nate Shahan, vice president of product management for Alkami. “Banks and credit unions have a wealth of insights within their account holder data. FIs who harness and use this data intelligently can execute a data-driven strategy, utilize predictive AI modeling, integrate data with email channel delivery and leverage marketing technology—all of which can boost acquisition, share of wallet, loyalty and growth. But they must take action now to mitigate the growing impact of these economic headwinds.” Download the 2023 Strategy Guide here. About Alkami Alkami Technology, Inc. is a leading cloud-based digital banking solutions provider for financial institutions in the United States that enables clients to grow confidently, adapt quickly and build thriving digital communities. Alkami helps clients transform through retail and business banking, digital account opening and digital loan origination, multi-payment fraud prevention, and data analytics and engagement solutions. To learn more, visit www.alkami.com. Media Relations Contact Jennifer Cortez [email protected] Katie Schimmel [email protected] SOURCE Alkami Technology, Inc.