Benton County News Now

Cherry Capital Airport Introduces New Security Technology – 9 & 10 News – 9&10 News https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/cherry-capital-airport-introduces-new-security-technology-9-10-news-910-news/ New airport technology is rolling out across the county, and the Cherry Capital Airport located in Traverse City is one of these ports who have received new security machines. This new credential authentication technology allows flyers to no longer receive a visual inspection from the document checker. Instead you will hand over your ID. It then will be inserted into a machine, validated and verified that you are flying out that day. These new machines allow flyers to get through security lines quicker as well as add an extra layer of security by ensuring no fraudulent documents are being used to travel. “We’re no longer have any element of human error there because we know that the ID is good, it’s not fraudulent, it’s connected to the person who’s giving it to us,” Jessica Mayle, the Regional Spokesperson for Transportation Security Administration states. “That’s a huge improvement and I think a more secure experience for the passenger. In addition to this new technology, TSA advises travelers to also get TSA pre-check to ensure a speedy security experience.

Surplus City Or Town Property – MRSC https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/surplus-city-or-town-property-mrsc/ Share this: This page provides an overview of state laws concerning the sale or disposal of surplus real property and personal property by cities and towns in Washington State, including examples of local government codes, policies, and surplus resolutions. Overview Cities and towns frequently need to sell or convey equipment or property which is no longer needed for municipal purposes. There are relatively few statutes concerning procedures for sale of surplus property.  The basic authority to purchase and dispose of real estate and personal property is set in the following statutes: First class cities: RCW 35.22.280(3) Second class cities: RCW 35.23.010 Code cities: RCW 35A.11.010 Towns: RCW 35.27.010 and RCW 35.27.370(2) Cities and towns should also be familiar with the statutes listed below. RCW 39.33.010 – Cities, towns and counties can sell or transfer property to other governmental entities “on such terms and conditions as may be mutually agreed upon.” This statute permits transfer for less than value. See AGO 1997 No. 5 for how to harmonize this statute with RCW 43.09.210 which requires that a local government entity receive “full value” when there is an intergovernmental transfer of property. RCW 39.33.015 – Cities, towns, and other political subdivisions may transfer, lease, or dispose of property at low or no cost for affordable housing and related facilities for low-income and very low-income households, as defined under RCW 43.63A.510, consistent with local regulations and comprehensive plans. For more information and examples, see our page Affordable Housing Techniques and Incentives. RCW 39.33.020 – Requires that a public hearing be held if the value of the property being surplussed exceeds $50,000. AGO 1997 No. 5 concluded that the public hearing requirement only applies to intergovernmental transfers. Ch. 35.94 RCW – If a city or town wishes to sell or lease a public utility, or portions of the utility, it can do so by following the procedures in this chapter. Bids are required, and the council must approve the sale by a two-thirds vote, followed by submitting the issue to the voters. RCW 35.94.040 – Requires that a public hearing be held if property (real estate or personal property) originally purchased for utility purposes is no longer needed for that use and the city desires to lease, sell or convey the property. However, no hearing is required for personal property or equipment with an estimated value of $50,000 or less. RCW 42.30.110(1)(b) – Cities and towns can discuss the selection of property for purchase or lease (or the price) in executive session when public knowledge regarding such consideration would cause a likelihood of increased price. RCW 42.30.110(1)(c) – Cities and towns can discuss in executive session the minimum price at which it will sell a particular parcel of real estate if public knowledge regarding such consideration would cause a likelihood of decreased price. This statute enables the council to provide negotiation direction and flexibility to the person delegated to sell real estate. RCW 42.56.260 – Exempts from public disclosure real estate appraisals obtained by the city prior to completion of a sale of the property. The statute was amended in 2015 to clarify the disclosure exemption by adding the following: “The exemptions in this section do not apply when disclosure is mandated by another statute or after the project or prospective project is abandoned or all properties that are part of the project have been purchased, sold, or leased. No appraisal may be withheld for more than three years.” RCW 43.09.210 – Requires that a local government entity receive “full value” when there is an intergovernmental transfer of property. See AGO 1997 No. 5 which concludes that the concept of “full value” is flexible, depending on the facts. Practice Tips Before the sale, always determine the fair market value of the item to be sold. If you sell it for less, you may be violating the “gift clause,” in Article VIII, Sec. 7 of the State Constitution, which states that “No county, city, town or other municipal corporation shall hereafter give any money, or property, or loan its money, or credit to or in aid of any individual, association, company or corporation, except for the necessary support of the poor and infirm, or become directly or indirectly the owner of any stock in or bonds of any association, company or corporation.” But see RCW 39.33.010 mentioned in the list of statutes above and remember that “value” does not always mean “cash value.” Hold a public hearing, if required by RCW 39.33.020 or RCW 35.94.040. AGO 1997 No. 5 concludes that the public hearing requirement in RCW 39.33.020 only applies to intergovernmental transfers of property. Pass a resolution declaring the property to be surplus, and specifying how the property is to be sold, or delegating that task to a particular administrative official. Proceed with sale as required by the town or city council, or in any commercially reasonable way. Sale can be by auction, private sale, sealed bid, through a broker or agent, etc. Consider adopting policies concerning sale of city property. See the examples below. Surplus Property Purchased with Grant Funds Before disposing of surplus grant-funded property, the city should consult the award documents and the granting agency to ensure that the sale or disposal is consistent with the granting agency’s requirements. For information on disposing of property acquired or improved with federal grant funds, see 2 CFR 200 Subpart D, Post Federal Award Requirements – in (particular 2 CFR 200.313 (equipment), 2 CFR 200.311 (real property), and 2 CFR 200.314 (supplies). Conflicts of Interest When obtaining appraisals and valuation services, public agencies should make sure they are receiving independent and impartial opinions on value. Agencies should not obtain estimates or appraisals from individuals or entities who have expressed interest in purchasing the property, which could result in the agency receiving less than fair market value. Agency officials who were involved in the decision to surplus the property (the city council) or responsible for administering the sale (the city manager, city administrator, or other administrative staff) should not purchase the surplus property due to conflict of interest concerns. See RCW 42.23.030; Washington’s common-law conflict of interest doctrine may also apply. This prohibition also applies to the spouse and dependent children of anyone prohibited from purchasing by RCW 42.23.030. For more information, see our page on Ethics and Conflicts of Interest. Although a sale at public auction or by sealed bids would seem to avoid direct conflict of interest issues, our conservative guidance has been to treat auction sales the same as direct sales and prohibit those individuals from submitting bids. However, other agency employees who were not involved in the decision to declare the property surplus are generally allowed to purchase surplus property, unless a local code or policy provides otherwise. Examples of Ordinances and Codes Bellevue Municipal Code Ch. 4.32 – Sale of City Property Bellingham Municipal Code: Ch. 4.84 – Disposition of Surplus Real Property Ch. 4.86 – Disposal of Property Other Than Real Estate Edmonds Municipal Code Ch. 3.01 – Sale of City Property Fife Municipal Code Ch. 1.28 – Disposal of Surplus Real and Personal Property of the City Langley Municipal Code Ch. 3.80 – Disposal of Surplus Property Port Angeles Municipal Code Ch. 2.60 – Disposal of Surplus Real and Personal Property Poulsbo Municipal Code Ch. 3.68 – Disposition of Property Shoreline Municipal Code: Ch. 3.50 – Sale and Disposal of Surplus Personal Property Ch. 3.55 – Sale and Disposal of Real Property Examples of Policies Bainbridge Island Real Property Surplus and Sale Procedures (2020) – Detailed policy for selling surplus real property, including fair market value determination; whether sales are subject to SEPA review; different disposition methods such as sealed bid, auction, negotiated sale, and RFP; and annual review and inventory of all city real property. Deer Park Resolution No. 2012-002 (2012) – Provisions are short and concise Olympia Disposal of Surplus Items Outside of the Annual Citywide Auction and Guidelines for Auction Surplus (2004) Renton Surplus Real Property Policy and Procedure (2004) – Includes separate procedures for enterprise fund and general fund departments/divisions Tacoma Public Utilities Surplus Real Property Disposition Policy (2020) – Policy and flowchart for disposition of surplus real property, including for affordable housing purposes. Identifies three categories of properties with different disposition processes depending on economic value and potential use. Vancouver Policy and Procedure for Surplus Personal Property Disposal (2009) – Includes items with commercial value, items with little/no value, vehicles, scrap metal, and police seizure items; establishes conflict of interest restrictions. Examples of Surplus Resolutions Below are selected examples of resolutions declaring certain items to be surplus and authorizing their sale or disposal. Real Property Bothell Surplus Real Property RFP (2011) – Request for proposals for private developer to develop six acres of surplus real property near downtown core; includes city’s goals for site. Proposals evaluated based on sale price, developer experience and financial ability to deliver a quality project, and overall approach. Everett Resolution No. 7526 (2020) – Authorizes four parcels to be listed for sale, including two originally acquired for utility purposes; public hearing was held per RCW 35.94.040. Purchase and sale agreements for each property must be submitted to city council for approval. Lynden R...

10 Best Destinations To Go On Your First Solo Trip In 2022 – Traveling Lifestyle https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/10-best-destinations-to-go-on-your-first-solo-trip-in-2022-traveling-lifestyle/ Many people go on solo adventures to “discover themselves” and explore their identities. Being alone also teaches you that you do not need anyone to make you feel whole. Being alone is good for the mind and can even help you cope with social anxiety and stress. Remember that what may have been ideal for some solo travelers may be disastrous for others. Some may be excellent for men but dangerous for women or people of color. Do your research before committing to vacation to make sure the place is right for you. Here is a list of the best destinations to engage in a solo trip.  Bali Bali is the ideal destination for a solo vacation in heaven. A Washington Post contributor claims that after her first visit to Bali in 2015, she felt a pull to return to spend more time alone, feeling safe and comfortable while surfing, eating, making new friends, learning the language and exploring the coast and nearby islands. San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico The village of San Cristóbal de las Casas in the highlands of Chiapas is on this list because of its open-air markets, textile artists, and Spanish colonial architecture. Sample the tamales, roasted plantains, and other fruits the town has to offer along with guavas, apples, and passion fruit. Istanbul Saghar Setareh, a food writer, photographer and cookbook author, has developed a list of criteria you can use to determine if a place is suitable for solo travel. Istanbul has it all: efficient public transportation, rich cultural and historical offerings, and a fascinating restaurant scene to explore at a variety of price points. Denver Denver tops the list of “Best (and Worst) Travel Destinations for Introverts.” That’s according to data from a VacationRenter, which took into account factors such as population density, walkability and diversity of activities. This makes sense, as Denver has a laid-back vibe and is easy to navigate, offering options for all types of solo travelers. Amsterdam The architecture, parks, restaurants, and nightlife of Amsterdam, one of the safest cities in the world, draw solo visitors. The Dutch capital was travel writer Ali Wunderman’s first stop while traveling alone, and it has long been a favorite of people with similar experiences. Japan Tokyo is the obvious destination, especially for those who might be uncomfortable traveling solo. The restaurants, pubs and public bathrooms here cater to solo travelers. You can stay in the country’s capital for the duration of your trip or take the train to explore other unique regions of Japan, including bustling Osaka, the beaches of Okinawa and hilly Sapporo. Tanzania Chanice “Queenie” Williams, founder of the blog and travel planning service Fly with Queenie, says her solo trip to Tanzania this summer was the right combination of relaxation and excitement. With cities, national parks and beaches on the itinerary, it was “perfect for solo travelers, particularly women who are not comfortable alone.” San Francisco Walk the city’s 49 square miles to get a sense of everything from the amazing atmosphere of the Outer Sunset to the beachfront Embarcadero, stopping along the way to sit at the bar at one of the many restaurants. Ponza, Italy Visitors are advised to rent a boat to explore the island’s magnificent bays, says Katie Parla, author of the upcoming cookbook “Food of the Italian Islands.” Parla remarked that “it is pure freedom to rent a scooter and zip around the volcanic contours of Ponza en route to aperitivo or dinner in the village of Le Forna as the sun sets over neighboring Palmarola in the distance.”  San Francisco Walk the city’s 49 square miles to get a sense of everything from the amazing atmosphere of the Outer Sunset to the beachfront Embarcadero, stopping along the way to sit at the bar at one of the many restaurants. Mexico City For any solo traveler, Anais Martinez, a food writer and gourmet tour guide from Mexico City, suggests visiting her hometown. As one of the largest cities in the world, it’s full of delicious food in every price range, parks and public spaces for people-watching, museums and archeological sites to explore. %

EXPLAINER: How Do We Know When A Recession Has Begun? – 69News WFMZ-TV https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/explainer-how-do-we-know-when-a-recession-has-begun-69news-wfmz-tv/ WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve sent a sobering message Wednesday after it announced its latest big interest rate hike: It plans to keep raising rates as long as it takes to conquer the worst inflation bout in decades — even at the risk of causing a recession in the process. Its aggressive pace of rate hikes will increasingly make borrowing and spending costly for consumers and businesses. Job cuts and rising unemployment could follow. And eventually, as the job market steadily weakens along with the economy, a recession could follow. Given the strength of the job market — the unemployment rate is still an exceedingly low 3.7%, with plentiful job openings — most economists say a recession seems months away, at least. But most of them nevertheless think an economic downturn is inevitable. Late last month, the government updated its estimate of the economy’s performance in the April-June quarter and confirmed its earlier estimate that the economy had shrunk for two straight quarters. Six months of contraction is a long-held informal definition of a recession. Yet nothing is simple in a post-pandemic economy in which growth is negative but the job market strong. The economy’s direction has confounded the Fed’s policymakers and many private economists since growth screeched to a halt in March 2020 as COVID-19 struck and 20 million Americans were suddenly thrown out of work. Even as the economy shrank over the first half of this year, employers added 2.7 million jobs — more than in most entire years before the pandemic struck. In August, the economy added 315,000 more. The unemployment rate, at 3.7%, is barely above a half-century low. Robust hiring and exceedingly low unemployment are hardly consistent with a recession. Inflation, meantime, remains near its highest level in four decades, though gas costs and other prices have eased in recent weeks. Inflation is still so high that despite pay raises many workers have received, Americans’ purchasing power is eroding. The pain is being felt disproportionately by lower-income and Black and Hispanic households, many of whom are struggling to pay for higher-cost essentials like food, gas and rent. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell speaks at a news conference Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022, at the Federal Reserve Board Building, in Washington. Intensifying its fight against chronically high inflation, the Federal Reserve raised its key interest rate by a substantial three-quarters of a point for a third straight time, an aggressive pace that is heightening the risk of an eventual recession. Jacquelyn Martin, STF Compounding those pressures, the Fed is jacking up rates at the fastest pace since the early 1980s, thereby magnifying borrowing costs for homes and cars and credit card purchases. So how, exactly, do we know when an economy is in recession? Here are some answers to such questions: WHO DECIDES WHEN A RECESSION HAS STARTED? Recessions are officially declared by the obscure-sounding National Bureau of Economic Research, a group of economists whose Business Cycle Dating Committee defines a recession as “a significant decline in economic activity that is spread across the economy and lasts more than a few months.” The committee considers trends in hiring as a key measure in determining recessions. It also assesses many other data points, including gauges of income, employment, inflation-adjusted spending, retail sales and factory output. It puts heavy weight on jobs and a gauge of inflation-adjusted income that excludes government support payments like Social Security. Yet the NBER typically doesn’t declare a recession until well after one has begun, sometimes for up to a year. Economists consider a half-point rise in the unemployment rate, averaged over several months, as the most historically reliable sign of a downturn. DO TWO STRAIGHT QUARTERS OF ECONOMIC CONTRACTION EQUAL A RECESSION? That’s a common rule of thumb, but it isn’t an official definition. Still, in the past, it has been a useful measure. Michael Strain, an economist at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute, has noted that in each of the past 10 times that the economy shrank for two consecutive quarters, a recession has resulted. Still, many economists doubt that we’re in a recession now. For one thing, there’s the robust job market. For another, Americans are still spending, if more tepidly. Though purchases of goods like appliances and furniture have dropped, spending on services, like airline trips and dinners out, keeps rising, indicating that millions of consumers are venturing out more. ___ DON’T A LOT OF PEOPLE THINK A RECESSION IS COMING? Yes, because many people now feel more financially burdened. With wage gains trailing inflation for most people, higher prices for such essentials as gas, food and rent have eroded Americans’ spending power. Walmart has reported that higher gas and food costs have forced its shoppers to reduce their purchases of discretionary spending such as new clothing, a clear sign that consumer spending, the leading driver of the economy, is weakening. The nation’s largest retailer, Walmart has reduced its profit outlook and said it would have to discount more items like furniture and electronics. And the Fed’s rate hikes have helped send the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate surging above 6%, compared with below 3% a year ago, thereby making homebuying increasingly unaffordable. Higher rates will likely weigh on businesses’ willingness to invest in new buildings, machinery and other equipment. If companies reduce spending and investment, they’ll also start to slow hiring. Rising caution among companies about spending freely could lead eventually to layoffs. If the economy were to lose jobs and the public were to grow more fearful, consumers would further reduce spending. WHAT ARE SOME SIGNS OF AN IMPENDING RECESSION? The clearest signal that a recession is under way, economists say, would be a steady rise in job losses and a surge in unemployment. In the past, an increase in the unemployment rate of three-tenths of a percentage point, on average over the previous three months, has meant that a recession will soon follow. Many economists monitor the number of people who seek unemployment benefits each week, which indicates whether layoffs are worsening. Weekly applications for jobless aid have sunk to a four-month low, which means that in the midst of a labor shortage, few employers are resorting to layoffs. ANY OTHER SIGNALS TO WATCH FOR? Many economists also monitor changes in the interest payments, or yields, on different bonds for a recession signal known as an “inverted yield curve.” This occurs when the yield on the 10-year Treasury falls below the yield on a short-term Treasury, such as the 3-month T-bill. That is unusual. Normally, longer-term bonds pay investors a richer yield in exchange for tying up their money for a longer period. Inverted yield curves generally mean that investors foresee a recession that will compel the Fed to slash rates. Inverted curves often predate recessions. Still, it can take 18 to 24 months for a downturn to arrive after the yield curve inverts. For many weeks, the yield on the two-year Treasury has exceeded the 10-year yield, suggesting that markets expect a recession soon. Many analysts say, though, that comparing the 3-month yield to the 10-year has a better recession-forecasting track record. Those rates are not inverted now. WILL THE FED KEEP RAISING RATES EVEN AS THE ECONOMY SLOWS? The economy’s flashing signals — slowing growth with strong hiring — have put the Fed in a tough spot. Chair Jerome Powell is aiming for a “soft landing,” in which the economy weakens enough to slow hiring and wage growth without causing a recession and brings inflation back to the Fed’s 2% target. But Powell has acknowledged that such an outcome has grown more difficult to achieve. Yet on Wednesday, he made clear that the Fed will keep raising rates, even amid a weakening economy that could slide into a recession, if that’s what’s needed to tame inflation. “No one knows whether this process will lead to a recession, or if so, how significant that recession would be,” Powell said at his news conference. “That’s going to depend on how quickly we bring down inflation.” Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Dementia: 7 Habits May Lower Risk For People With Type 2 Diabetes – Medical News Today https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/dementia-7-habits-may-lower-risk-for-people-with-type-2-diabetes-medical-news-today/ People with type 2 diabetes can be at an increased risk for dementia. Researchers are still working to understand how lifestyle factors can modify dementia risk. Data from a recent study indicates that people with type two diabetes are at a lower risk for dementia if they practice certain healthy lifestyle choices. Dementia is a chronic condition that can be debilitating. Since dementia doesn’t have a cure, people often wonder what steps they can take to reduce their risk of developing dementia. A recent study published in Neurology found that for people with diabetes, incorporating certain healthy lifestyle habits was associated with a decreased risk of developing dementia. is a broad term for disorders that impact people’s ability to remember, think, and reason. It typically gets more severe with time and can significantly interfere with people’s everyday lives and ability to live independently. Some risk factors for dementia cannot be altered, such as increased age or family history. However, people can modify other to reduce risk. For example, smoking, obesity, and excessive use of alcohol are all risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. is also a risk factor for dementia, particularly type two diabetes. People with diabetes can work with their doctors to manage their condition and improve their health. Research is ongoing about how healthy lifestyle changes can improve conditions like diabetes and reduce dementia risk. ​ Researchers in this current study examined how seven healthy lifestyle habits impacted dementia risk. They looked at how these habits helped people with diabetes and those without diabetes. The habits included: not currently smoking moderate alcohol consumption regular physical activity eating a healthy diet getting adequate amounts of sleep l​ess sedentary behavior having frequent social contact Researchers utilized the U.K. Biobank in their data collection. They included participants ages 60 years or older without dementia at the start of the study. They specifically excluded people with type one diabetes from data collection so that they could focus on individuals with type two diabetes. ​Researchers assigned participants a healthy lifestyle score based on the seven above behavior factors. Each category had a definition of what researchers classified as healthy. For example, someone was classified as being regularly physically active if they had “at least 150 minutes/week of moderate activity or 75 minutes/week of vigorous activity or an equivalent combination.” The study included more than 160,000 participants, including more than 12,000 with diabetes. Researchers followed the participants for an average of 12 years. They found that healthy lifestyle factors were associated with a lower risk of developing dementia. But this risk reduction was even more pronounced among participants with diabetes. Study author, Dr. Yingli Lu, Ph.D., of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine in China, noted to Medical News Today: “Our findings highlight that although patients with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing dementia later compared with those without, adherence to an overall healthy lifestyle may greatly reduce this risk.” N​on-study author and Alzheimer’s researcher, Jeroen Mahieu, Ph.D., noted to MNT: “The most important finding of this study is that adhering to a healthy lifestyle substantially reduces the risk of developing dementia for diabetes patients; significantly more than when you do not have diabetes. This is important given the greater prevalence of dementia among diabetes patients. Yet, due to the nature of the data and the research design we should be cautious with interpreting these effects as causal.” The study indicates that incorporating healthy lifestyle habits may decrease the risk for dementia, particularly among people with diabetes. However, the study also had several limitations. ​First, information on lifestyle behaviors was self-reported, increasing the risk of data collection errors. Second, the researchers collected lifestyle factor data at baseline and did collect data on lifestyle factor changes. The study did not collect data about lifestyle factors for participants before they developed diabetes. The researchers also noted that participants they had to exclude based on missing data were more likely to have lower education and socioeconomic status, which may have impacted the results. Based on the data collection methods, the research team acknowledged that they could have misclassified participants with diabetes or prediabetes as not having diabetes. In addition, although several confounding factors were adjusted for, such as medication use, the authors acknowledged that there could be unknown or unmeasured factors unaccounted for. The study also included mainly Caucasian participants indicating that more diverse studies will be needed in the future. Nevertheless, the study adds to a growing body of data regarding how lifestyle choices influence health. Dr. Lu explained to MNT: “Our data may have important implications for doctors, and other medical professionals who treat people with diabetes. [They] should consider recommending lifestyle changes to their patients. Such changes may not only improve overall health but also contribute to the prevention or delayed onset of dementia in people with diabetes. Future research is needed to determine how combined healthy lifestyle behaviors benefit cognitive outcomes in diabetes and the possible mechanisms.”

2022 MLB Odds, Picks, Bets For Wednesday, Sept. 21 From Proven Model: This Four-Way Parlay Pays Almost 18-1 – CBS Sports https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/2022-mlb-odds-picks-bets-for-wednesday-sept-21-from-proven-model-this-four-way-parlay-pays-almost-18-1-cbs-sports/ Future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols resumes his quest for career home run No. 700 when he and the St. Louis Cardinals (87-62) face the San Diego Padres (82-66) on Wednesday at Petco Park. The 42-year-old Pujols, who plans to retire after this season, has 698 career home runs, which ranks fourth all-time. Only Barry Bonds (762), Hank Aaron (755) and Babe Ruth (714) have more. San Diego is a -135 favorite in the latest Padres vs. Cardinals odds from Caesars Sportsbook, while St. Louis is a +115 underdog. The over/under for runs scored is 7.5. First pitch is set for 9:40 p.m. ET from San Diego. The game is one of 15 on the MLB schedule for Wednesday. Elsewhere in the majors, the Yankees slugger Aaron Judge can tie Roger Maris’ storied American League record for most home runs in a season, against the Pirates, and the Guardians and White Sox square off in Chicago. Before making any MLB picks or parlays, be sure to see the predictions and betting advice from SportsLine’s proven computer model. The SportsLine Projection Model simulates every MLB game 10,000 times, and it is 321-272 on top-rated MLB money-line picks since the start of the 2021 season, returning more than $600 for $100 bettors during that span. This is the same model that pegged the 2021 Atlanta Braves at 10-1 as one of three best bets to win it all last season. Anybody who has followed it has seen profitable returns. Now, the model has locked in four confident MLB best bets for Wednesday. They all involve games at 6:40 p.m. ET or later, so there’s still time to get these MLB picks in. If you successfully parlay the picks, you’d be looking at a payout of almost 18-1. You can only see the model’s MLB picks at SportsLine.  Top MLB picks today The model, which ran 10,000 simulations on each of Wednesday’s games, likes Kansas City (+110) to knock off Minnesota. Once the leaders in the AL Central, the Twins (73-75) have struggled on the road in the second half of the season, going 5-21 in their last 26 games away from Target Field. Meanwhile, the Royals (59-89) have been much better at home (35-41) than on the road (24-48) this season. Kansas City faces a Minnesota team that has struggled in September, going 6-14 in its last 20 games. In September, the Twins have scored just 64 runs and have an OPS of .663. Just four teams have been worse in both offensive categories. See who else to back right here. Featured Game | Kansas City Royals vs. Minnesota Twins How to make MLB picks and parlays for Wednesday The model also locked in three other best bets for Wednesday, including a play on an even bigger underdog. You can see the model’s MLB Wednesday best bets and parlay only at SportsLine. What MLB picks should you target for a payout of almost 18-1? And what underdog does the model like on Wednesday? Visit SportsLine now to see the MLB best bets from an advanced model that is on a 321-272 run on top-rated MLB money-line picks since the start of 2021.

What The Zuck – A Web3 Metaverse Roadmap – Forbes https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/what-the-zuck-a-web3-metaverse-roadmap-forbes/ getty I was fascinated with the concept of the Metaverse when I first read Neal Stephenson’s Snow Crash in the 90’s. At the time, I was the CEO of The Imagination Network, the top online social games company, with a remarkable team that, inspired by the book, built one of the first 3D virtual worlds—a Metaverse called CyberPark. CyberPark had most of the components that are emerging in the market now—fun filled environments with avatars, currency, and merchandise. In my latest Web3/Meta keynote, I have a slide comparing what we built—decades ago—and what companies, like Facebook, Roblox and many others, are prototyping now. Whether at a public conference or a large internal corporate event, the audience looks at the then and now slide and says: “ I can’t see much of a difference…visually.” Even the industry leaders who can tell the difference will admit that the march to building mass-market 3D virtual Worlds has been long and slow, and still consists of lucrative niche markets. That is all about to change, as we experience a perfect storm of enabling technologies and platforms adopted and powered-by by the next-generation of people and Web3 organizations. It will take longer than most forecast, not look like the promo-reels, and go through multiple phases of development over the next 10 years. As organizations, big and small, begin to place their bets, knowing when to invest is as important as where. What I’m asked most often is: what should my company do now. Let’s call it the NOWverse to do list. What the Zuck is the Metaverse People get excited about new technologies that are often over-hyped in advance, but not ready for mass-market consumption. Meta + Verse (from Universe) = Metaverse, is just the next one. If you Google it, hundreds of definitions pop up, that most find confusing or dictate an unachievable perfect-world. There are lots of misconceptions about what you need to experience it properly, like VR/AR headsets, or massive screens, etc. You don’t—it should be device agnostic. As an insider, I like Matthew Ball’s definition, because he digs into the critical components required for Web3 + Metaverse: “A massively scaled and interoperable network of real-time rendered 3D virtual worlds that can be experienced synchronously and persistently by an effectively unlimited number of users with an individual sense of presence, and with continuity of data, such as identity, history, entitlements, objects, communications, and payments.” Too long? Try this: It is the Internet’s next evolution towards immersiveness. Who is Web3? You are. To understand the Metaverse’s enabling fundamentals, lets look at how the Internet may evolve. Web 1.0, the first iteration of the internet that continues to be the foundation of what we use today. It was mostly read-only static content and with old media business models. At launch, it was coined as The Information Super Highway. What I said back then about the first iteration of the Internet can also be used to describe Web3 – Metaverse: ‘The future vision of what technology could feasibly provide, which will continue to change in size, scope and promise, as more viable capabilities emerge that are grounded in human demand and desire.’ Web 2.0 consolidated power with centralized landlords and business models that are monetizing the masses with more social sharing, creation, and enablement platforms. Web 3.0 promises to take us to a democratized, creator/owner phase of the internet, where the power shifts from the big tech oligopolies to individuals. Rather than using platforms in exchange for data, users should have full power, governance, and control over assets, where they can be participants, owners, and shareholders—with peer-to-peer transactions. Dean DeBiase – Reboot Partners The capabilities and timing of a Web3 world are as uncertain as the original wild-west land rush, with thousands of companies developing enabling pieces of a multi-layer ecosystem. From the big tech Web2 players, like Google and Apple, who don’t want to lose control in a Web3 transition, to innovatators like coto by Eve and dentity, the enabling platform market is moving rapidly. PLANNING: The 6 P’s When leaders ask me, should we hire a Chief Metaverse Officer, I usually say no. But, depending on the industry and company, most will be better served by making it core to the Chief Marketing or Digital Officer capabilities—and then hire and invest accordingly. Before jumping on the Metaverse wagon, organizations from McDonald’s and Starbucks to CVS and Unilever are taking a step back and planning out what is best to do now, while brands like Nike—who will soon have produced over $200 mil in revenue from the category—are claiming it as a more significant part of their future business model optimization. To help organizations prepare, let’s look at the NOWverse 6P’s that may help plan and invest into a more robust Web3 digital strategy and a Metaverse evolution. First, Prepare and develop longtail, situational plans for next-gen platforms and partnerships, and understand the array of different business models. You should also consider Protecting your assets, data, and information. The Metaverse creates new scenarios to anticipate and mitigate risks around; and not just secure, but proactively expand your patents, trademarks, IPs, services, products, and ventures. Organizations can Produce IDTs, what I call (Iconic Digital Twins) or NTF’s for existing and future products and services, while working towards enhancing your brand’s Positioning, by providing OBEs – (on-brand experiences) for in-person, online, and virtual environments. Don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach; align with your brand’s promise, and keep the experience relevant, realistic, and reliable. When looking at go-to-market, you must Promote and sync purposeful branding experiences to meta-phases, get Personal, and leverage technologies. Dean DeBiase – Reboot Partners PERSONALIZATION: The 5 E’s With all of the Web2 solutions available, it is table-stakes to provide customers with personalization Wether online or IRL, consider the 5Es to get started. Companies have been deploying some of these in both old and new media—but now it must be at the core of any digital transformation strategy. Traditional and new media advertising (and ecommerce) business models need a reboot. Besides selling something, there are smarter opportunities to connect with Web2 and Web3 consumers.. You can Entertain and Educate, by providing them with simple, fun gamification to watch, play, and experiment with—while delivering on-point, useful content. Help to build brand credibility and loyalty when providing Engaging brand experiences and conversions that get customers involved and Excite them by delivering helpful, actionable assets unique to your brand. Lastly, e-comm. To get consumers to buy, it helps to get personal and provide meaningful experiences at each stage of their journey, which often makes the transaction, and follow-on loyalty development easier. Dean DeBiase – Reboot Partners Making Web3-3D Moves in a Web2-2D World Smart organizations are seperating the hype from the roadmap, and planning around the fact that the mass-market will be living in a Web2-2D world for a while longer. As a user and teacher of technology transformation and trends, at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, I like how Gartner breaks out the evolution with a ten year roadmap—however there will be other forecasts. Additionally, Revieve published a Metaverse Playbook, with details of what companies can consider doing now and next—you can get it here. Gartner As organizations navigate toward Web3—while operating in a Web2 world—and testing platforms and technologies that are part of consumer journies into the Metaverse, they will learn to meet the mass, and more often niche, audiences where they are along the way.

8 Changes That Would Improve Tinykin – TheGamer https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/8-changes-that-would-improve-tinykin-thegamer/ Theirs a special mixture of enjoyment and stress reserved for those who have played Nintendo’s Pikmin. Not many games have attempted its gameplay, but it seems Splashteam are fans — creating Tinykin, a Pikmin-esque platformer. You navigate Milo, a button-sized spaceman, around the interior of an earthly house. No sooner are you getting your bearings than you’re introduced to your mission: Fix a strange machine. Luckily, the Tinykin can help – teensy organisms that have different aiding abilities depending on their look. Tinykin is a platformer full of vibrancy, mystery, and satisfying gameplay, but here are some things that could push the game to even greater heights. 8 Adding Enemies You’re probably going to notice the vast comparisons being drawn between this game and Pikmin throughout the read. That’s because it tries so brazenly to capture Pikmin on its own terms. Whilst it does a good job treading down a familiar Pikmin path, the absence of enemies in Tinykin is noticeable. With the exception of environmental dangers, no enemies will try to kill you or your little Tinykin buddies. This type of game would have excelled at combat scenarios, especially considering the variety of Tinykin. Having little to no threats at all, whilst being very accessible to younger players, diminishes the stakes dramatically – leading to one of the biggest things that should have been looked at… 7 It Could Have Been More Difficult Now, video games don’t need to be difficult to be fun. But having some form of tangible obstacle or introducing sections that make you think carefully does add to an experience. Tinykin leans too far on being too easy, which is polarizing to its Pikmin love-lettering. If Milo falls from a great height or touches water, they die, but are instantly recovered without any consequence. Those looking for even a slither of a challenge in Tinykin will be disappointed in its sacrifice of difficulty in order to appeal to a wider audience. Just making the world a little more hostile would have solved this issue and combated an otherwise shallow area of the game. 6 Make Tinykin Vulnerable Those who have played Pikmin need no reminder of how heart-crushing it is when you let one die. Those games require careful management and maneuvering for your little army to survive. Here, the Tinykin are invincible and will never be in any danger. You never actually control them outright, and they always follow you loyally – traversing great distances like magic to be right by your side. Again, removing the mortality of the Tinykin removes any form of challenge. If the Tinykin had to look to Milo for safety a bit more, this would improve the bond between them, adding value to the times when you need to use them. 5 The Expedition Timer Could Have Played More Of A Role Whenever you pause the game, you’ll notice an expedition timer counting up. Even pausing doesn’t stop this timer, and it counts the overall time you’ve spent in the game. This clock doesn’t affect anything in the game, and begs the question of why is it there. Sure, the likes of speedrunners could use it as a nifty in-game timer, but it would have been cool to see it make an in-world difference. The original Pikmin gave you thirty in-game days to complete it, for a narrative purpose. Tinykin’s timer just looks out of place, and needs the same level of narrative hook to warrant its inclusion. 4 Variety In The Side Ventures Outside the main objectives of each area, you can come across insect characters who have side missions. These range from returning toy animals to a toy zoo to navigating deadly pipes to retrieve a ring. Whilst these side quests are novel distractions, they don’t quite ever feel necessary. The aforementioned ring retrieval mission is recycled in every area, and all the side ventures equate to feeling a bit samey – gifting you a collectible for completing them. However, if they meant something a bit more, or perhaps if there were more of them to seek out, it could have enriched the overall experience. 3 Even More Unique Environments Traversing a house as a tiny entity is rarely boring. The same can be said for Tinykin, with each section of the game belonging to a different room in the house; themed in an interesting way. It’s a tonne of fun to navigate and explore, but a lot of the areas recycle the same platforming assets. You’ll grow used to climbing drawers, plants, and shelves, which are staples of any household, but no less repetitive. If the ways in which you traversed this environment were spiced with variety, it could have made every section unique. A game that does this exceedingly well is It Takes Two. 2 Upgrades To The Binocular Goggles One of the gadgets that Milo can use to help get his bearings is the binocular goggles. Pulling these from your inventory allows you to scope out the level and seek out glowing interactives. Collectible upgrades for these would have been a major boon. For example, the binoculars could gain the ability to show hints of where any remaining collectible pollen is hiding. There’s an awful lot of pollen to collect in the game that completionists will hone in on, and it works the same way as music note collecting in Banjo-Kazooie games. When you’re one or two pollen short, there’s no discernible way to know where to look. Hence why a binocular upgrade could have improved this. 1 Less Confusing Ending One of the best things about Tinykin is its sense of mystery. There’s a bigger picture happening under the surface, and a lot of storytelling is baked into environmental detail. When it comes to the ending, the story is wrapped up just as mysteriously, but still leaves many questions. What doesn’t help is how much information is packed into the conclusion. Without giving too much away, you’re introduced to a character the game has been building up, and who also has been undergoing a vague quest that is never quite explained. Perhaps this is lining up a sequel or DLC, which only time will answer. NEXT: The Most Relaxing Platformers

Volatility Spikes Across The Crypto Market After The Fed Raises Interest Rates By 75bps – Kitco NEWS https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/volatility-spikes-across-the-crypto-market-after-the-fed-raises-interest-rates-by-75bps-kitco-news/ Editor’s Note: With so much market volatility, stay on top of daily news! Get caught up in minutes with our speedy summary of today’s must-read news and expert opinions. Sign up here! (Kitco News) – The wider crypto market traded mixed on Wednesday after the Federal Reserve announced a 75 bps hike in interest rates, aligning with consensus estimates and putting concerns about the ramifications of a full percentage point increase to rest. Overall, it appears that the rate hike announcement was largely priced in, with traders maintaining their current positions after the afternoon failed to produce any unexpected developments. Data from TradingView shows that while volatility spiked around the time that Fed Chair Powell was giving his speech, whipsawing the price of Bitcoin (BTC) from a high of $19,840 to a low of $18,700, after the dust settled BTC was trading slightly in the green above the $19,000 support level. BTC/USD 4-hour chart. Source: TradingView BTCs post-FOMC performance was a welcomed sight for many in the crypto ecosystem following Monday’s dismal performance which saw its price hit a three-month low. Bulls still have work to do; however, as bears still remain in control of the price action according to Kitco senior technical analyst Jim Wyckoff. “The bears have the overall near-term technical advantage amid a price downtrend in place on the daily chart. The path of least resistance for prices is presently sideways to lower,” Wyckoff said in his morning Bitcoin update. Watch out for a bull trap Not all traders in the market were quick to jump on the BTC price rally following the interest rate hike announcement including market analyst and pseudonymous Twitter user il Capo of Crypto, who posted the following tweet warning that the market could pump and then dump as a result of Powell’s remarks. Good morning. Expecting a scam pump pre FOMC and downtrend continuation afterwards. How high could it go? First target would be 20300-20600. If it breaks that level, we could see 22800-23000. Remember that every bounce is a short opportunity. — il Capo Of Crypto (@CryptoCapo_) September 21, 2022 In a follow-up tweet, Capo posted the following chart outlining a more bearish path forwards for Bitcoin which could see it drop into the $14,000 – $16,000 range before finding its footing and once again climbing higher. BTC/USD 8-hour chart. Source: Twitter A mixed bag for the altcoin market Volatility also spiked across the altcoin market, leading to a mixed bag of results with several tokens climbing higher while the vast majority of projects traded flat to negative. Daily cryptocurrency market performance. Source: Coin360 The top altcoin Ether (ETH) saw its price decline 1.54% to trade at a price of $1,333 at the time of writing and is down more than 15.7% on the weekly chart. Out of the top 200 tokens by market cap, the biggest gainers over the past 24 hours include a 14.05% increase for CEEK VR (CEEK), a 12.58% gain for Reserve Rights (RSR), and a 12.08% climb for Ellipsis (EPS). The overall cryptocurrency market cap now stands at $949 billion, and Bitcoin’s dominance rate is 39.6%. 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.

‘Fear Gauge’ Futures Signals U.S. Stock Selling Crescendo – Reuters https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/fear-gauge-futures-signals-u-s-stock-selling-crescendo-reuters/ Traders work on the trading floor at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in Manhattan, New York City, U.S., September 13, 2022. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com NEW YORK, Sept 21 (Reuters) – Futures tied to Wall Street’s fear gauge on Wednesday sent a signal that has historically marked intense selling pressure in markets, but has sometimes preceded stock market rebounds. The October VIX futures (.VIX) rose 0.28 points above the November futures on Wednesday, the widest margin since mid-June, after Wall Street’s main indexes sold off following a 75 basis point interest rate hike by the Federal Reserve., read more VIX futures, which plot volatility expectations for several months ahead, normally remain upward sloping, with near-term futures relatively less pricey than those that target coming months. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com An inverted curve, when near-dated contracts are more expensive than later dated ones, suggests investors are growing more worried about near-term events, raising the cost of hedging. Such a signal has occurred prominently five times since 2020, with two instances followed by market rebounds, including the most recent one in mid-June. Reuters Graphics “It’s usually a sign all the risk is being pulled into the here and the now,” said Chris Murphy, co-head of derivatives strategy at Susquehanna International Group. “That’s why often we will look at it as a capitulation indicator,” Murphy said. The two nearest VIX futures last inverted in June, amid a bout of intense selling that drove the S&P 500 .SPX to its bear market low. The index rebounded 17% soon after, though most of that rally has been reversed on fears the Fed will be more hawkish than previously anticipated. While an inversion this time may indicate intensifying selling pressure, it does not necessarily signal an immediate end to the market’s recent slide, Murphy said. For instance, the two front month VIX futures remained inverted for a month – from mid-February through mid-March – before the stock market sell-off in the first quarter took a breather. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Saqib Iqbal Ahmed; Editing by Ira Iosebashvili, Chizu Nomiyama and Richard Chang Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

Ford Looks To Increase Safety With Smartphone Tech – U.S. News & World Report https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/ford-looks-to-increase-safety-with-smartphone-tech-u-s-news-world-report/ In outdoor-enthusiast cities like Austin, Texas, cyclists and pedestrians share the road with motorists, trying to carve out a peaceful and safe coexistence. Unfortunately, the number of traffic and bicyclist fatalities is increasing in these cities and around the country. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic fatalities increased 13% to 7,342 in 2021 versus 2020 and bicyclist traffic fatalities increased 5% (for a total of 1,000) during the same time period. Ford is aiming to improve that number with a new concept smartphone app that helps alert drivers to people on two wheels or two feet on the road. The technology harnesses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to notify connected Ford vehicle drivers of pedestrians and bicyclists, even if they’re hidden from view. BLE was created in 2011 to use the same radio wavebands as typical Bluetooth, but to do the same function using less battery power. The way that works is BLE devices remain asleep in between connections, transferring data with the smallest amount of power as possible. In conjunction with Commsignia, PSS, Ohio State University, T-Mobile and Tome Software, Ford developed the concept, and the automaker is demonstrating it at the Intelligent Transportation Society of America’s (ITSA) World Congress in Los Angeles. Ohio State University and T-Mobile are household names, but less so is Commsignia, which was launched a decade ago and focuses on research and application of vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-everything technology. PSS provides safety innovation and education, and Tome Software has worked with Ford before on bicycle-to-vehicle communications. This new smartphone-based concept technology works as an app on a pedestrian’s or cyclist’s phone to communicate their location to a connected Ford vehicle. When a potential crash risk is detected, Ford’s in-car Sync system alerts the driver with graphics and audio alerts. Ford says its newer vehicles equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology can use this app to avoid a crash and apply the brakes if the driver doesn’t respond in time. “We see other possible applications for this technology, including detecting road construction zones and construction workers,” said Ford’s Executive Director, Research and Advanced Engineering, Jim Buczkowski in a press release. Unlike radar or cameras, both of which rely on line-of-sight to assess a risky situation, BLE can detect pedestrians and bicycle riders even when hidden behind obstructions such as buildings, poles, signs and other common city obstacles. While typical Bluetooth connections require pairing, this BLE connection does not, which gives it better opportunities to help. The concept app has the potential to save more lives and keep distracted drivers from veering into a bike lane or onto a soft shoulder where fellow humans may be walking.

Logitech Builds Android-Powered Steam Deck Clone For Portable Cloud Gaming – Ars Technica https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/logitech-builds-android-powered-steam-deck-clone-for-portable-cloud-gaming-ars-technica/ There’s always Chrome’s offline dinosaur game — Is your local Wi-Fi infrastructure ready for a portable cloud gaming device? Ron Amadeo – Sep 21, 2022 8:26 pm UTC Logitech Those leaks were real! Logitech is jumping into the handheld game console arena, and cloud gaming is the primary platform? The company has announced the “Logitech G CLOUD Gaming Handheld,” a Steam Deck/Nintendo Switch-style portable that runs Android, has a full suite of controller buttons, and is meant to take your cloud gaming collection on the go. The device is powered by an eight-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G—that’s two Cortex A76 CPUs, four A55 CPUs, and an Adreno 618 GPU all built on an 8 nm process. That’s a mid-range chip that’s very close to what you get in a Pixel 5a. It’s good enough for some local games, but those will be local Android games, and those are not the focus of this device. Besides the “Cloud” in the name, Logitech says the handheld takes “massive libraries of AAA titles and advanced graphics from the cloud and puts it all in your hands. This allows you to play a ridiculous amount of games from Xbox, NVIDIA GeForce NOW, and even Steam Link.” (Logitech continually snubs Stadia and Luna in its promotional materials, but presumably they will work, too.) The spec sheet also includes a 7-inch, 60 Hz,1920×1080 LCD,  4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, plus a MicroSD slot. There’s a USB-C port for 18 W charging, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, stereo speakers, and Wi-Fi 5 (aka 802.11ac) support. For buttons, you get a pretty standard layout of a d-pad, two joysticks, ABXY face buttons, four shoulder buttons (two analog), and then four system buttons for things like “Home” and “Menu.” Logitech’s FAQ goes out of its way to say that video out is not supported, so no Switch-style TV hookups. Let’s see: Xbox Cloud Gaming, Nvidia Geforce Now, Xbox again, and Steam Link. That’s all the cloud streaming services, right? Nothing’s missing. Logitech Besides that custom game launcher interface, there’s also a normal Android home screen. The top has four shoulder buttons (two are analog), a power switch, a volume rocker, and what looks like the MicroSD slot cover. Logitech The bottom has two speakers, a USB-C port, and a headphone jack. Logitech The back is just for grip. There are no triggers here. Logitech Someone holding the thing. It’s smaller than a Steam Deck. Logitech This built-in button remapper looks useful. Logitech Unlike the Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck, Logitech’s portable has no fan. That means it really won’t be great for locally crunching its own game graphics compared to its competition. The upside is that you’re getting more tablet-like battery life: Logitech claims up to 12 hours of game streaming from the 6000 mAh battery. There are no good answers when it comes to Internet access for a portable cloud gaming device. Logitech’s Qualcomm chip deal opens the possibility for cellular connectivity with either LTE or 5G via a Qualcomm modem, but there is no cellular option at all for Logitech’s handheld. Cellular would make the device even more expensive, both upfront and with a monthly cellular bill, but not having it means that out of the box your “portable” cloud gaming device will only work if you can find a friendly, high-quality Wi-Fi hotspot. You could never use the thing during a roundtrip, at least not without tethering it to some other device, and even then cellular game streaming will be tough. It feels like you’re constantly going to be starving for Internet. Logitech’s cloud handheld is $350, (but on sale now for a $300 introductory price), which is a tough sell because that’s Nintendo Switch money. A Steam Deck is $50 more. How much do you love AAA Xbox/PC games and putting up with constant Internet questions, when a fully local handheld can be had for the same amount of money? Somehow this device is only shipping with Android 11, which, at two years old, is probably close to the age limit of what Google is willing to license to third-parties. The system comes with Google Play, so you’ll have easy access to all your favorite games, emulators, and streaming services. The press release says Logitech’s handheld was “developed in partnership with Tencent Games,” with the two companies teaming up to “combine Logitech G’s expertise in hardware with Tencent Games’ expertise in software services.” Tencent is a Chinese tech juggernaut and the world’s biggest gaming company, thanks to owning a stake in a ton of development houses, like Riot Games and 40 percent of Epic Games. Tencent also has a ton of Android app experience, while Logitech has none. I wonder if any Tencent software is backed into the operating system? The handheld is up for preorder now and will be available at Amazon and Best Buy in October 2022.

House Republicans Object To Renewing Flint Lead Exposure Registry – Detroit News https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/house-republicans-object-to-renewing-flint-lead-exposure-registry-detroit-news/ Skip to main content This content is only available to subscribers. Get unlimited digital access. $1 for 6 months. Your subscription supports: Unlimited access to subscriber only articles on desktop, tablet and mobile web. The e-Edition, a digital replica of the print paper, every day. Trusted, up-to-date local Detroit and Michigan breaking news. Newsletters on topics that interest you most. Exclusive podcasts from our top journalists. News, analysis and scores on Detroit and Michigan sports teams. Mobile app for news, photos and video on the go. This content is only available to subscribers. Get unlimited digital access. $1 for 6 months. Your subscription supports: Unlimited access to subscriber only articles on desktop, tablet and mobile web. The e-Edition, a digital replica of the print paper, every day. Trusted, up-to-date local Detroit and Michigan breaking news. Newsletters on topics that interest you most. Exclusive podcasts from our top journalists. News, analysis and scores on Detroit and Michigan sports teams. Mobile app for news, photos and video on the go.

Aruba Is Calling All Pet-Lovers To Visit – Porthole Cruise And Travel https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/aruba-is-calling-all-pet-lovers-to-visit-porthole-cruise-and-travel/ To kick off National Dog Week, Aruba is launching the Have Dog, Will Travel initiative in partnership with two popular pet-focused companies, Avvinue and Wag!. Have Dog, Will Travel will grant travelers easy access to dog-friendly hotel and resort deals, aiming to extend The Aruba Effect, a state of being that visitors experience on the One happy island, to furry friends and their humans! Aruba is offering discounts for expert pet travel assistance by launching Have Dog, Will Travel, for the first time ever. From September 20, 2022, through October 2022, travelers with furry friends can take advantage of more of Aruba’s dog-inclusive experiences than ever. By working with Wag!, the top service specializing in connecting pet parents with pet care services in their surrounding area, and Avvinue, an online pet travel startup that helps travelers find dog-friendly destinations and assists customers with pet reservations, the Have Dog, Will Travel initiative is sure to grab the attention of frequent travelers and pet parents. “Aruba is a destination that not only allows you to bring your dog but welcomes them with open arms,” said Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority. “Through this promotion, we aim to help pet-owners enjoy an idyllic experience on the One happy island, whether they are planning to bring their companion or safely board them while they travel.” Travelers can book pet-friendly travel through Avvinue and enter the promo code “ARUBA” at checkout for a $25 discount on upcoming flights for themselves and their four-legged friends. Travelers who prefer to leave their dogs home can sign up for one free month of Wag! Premium and enjoy a 10% discount on any service booked through the company, including boarding, sitting services and pet caregivers. Pet parents will also have access to a 24-7 live chat with veterinary professionals, their sitters, and much more. RELATED: THE PERFECT PORT: SPENDING THE DAY IN ARUBA Aruba is home to dozens of pet-friendly hotels that guests can choose from. Here are some of Aruba‘s top choices for pet parents and their furry friends: Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba: Upon arrival, this resort welcomes pet parents and their dogs with tasty treats and water bowls. Guests and their pups, of any size, are encouraged to enjoy a paradise vacation for only an extra $10 fee per day. Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort Aruba: This beach resort welcomes dogs up to 20 pounds to stay at their adult-only hotel, where concierge‘s will be assigned to individual dogs and can provide guests with pet-friendly recommendations and resources. The additional rate for an accompanying dog is $15 a night in the Bucuti Wing and $20 a night in the Tara Wing. Courtyard by Marriott Aruba Resort: Courtyard guests and their pets staying at this Palm Beach resort can take advantage of a few great promotions thanks to Have Dog, Will Travel. As Visitors staying 4 nights or more with their pets will receive 15% off their total at checkout. Pets must weigh no more than 20 pounds, and pet parents are subject to a $150 cleaning fee by the resort. Hyatt Place Aruba Airport: Hyatt Place provides travelers and their dogs with easy accessibility to the top attractions in Aruba. Guests who bring along their furry friends are subject to a $75 fee for stays up to 6 nights. Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa & Casino: Upon arrival, Hyatt Regency offers travelers and their dogs a welcome letter, a comfy dog bed, a biscuit, along with food and water bowls. For a $150 one-time fee for up to 7 nights, owners can enjoy a hands-on concierge that provides pet- friendly recommendations for the duration of their stay in Aruba. The Ritz Carlton, Aruba: The Ritz offers dog-friendly amenities and is designed to create a luxury experience for pets and their parents. Some amenities include gourmet pet food, non- motorized water activities, and even mini pet cabanas. Aruba is one of the most revisited Caribbean destinations among frequent travelers. One happy island has lots to offer including beaches, traditional culinary experiences, and tons of award- winning hotels. The country was awarded a top spot on Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2020 list due to their remarkable sustainability efforts. Do you travel with your pets? Let us know in the comments! %

Fed Attacks Inflation With Another Big Hike And Expects More – Madison.com https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/fed-attacks-inflation-with-another-big-hike-and-expects-more-madison-com/ By CHRISTOPHER RUGABER – AP Economics Writer WASHINGTON (AP) — Intensifying its fight against high inflation, the Federal Reserve raised its key interest rate Wednesday by a substantial three-quarters of a point for a third straight time and signaled more large rate hikes to come — an aggressive pace that will heighten the risk of an eventual recession. The Fed’s move boosted its benchmark short-term rate, which affects many consumer and business loans, to a range of 3% to 3.25%, the highest level since early 2008. The officials also forecast that they will further raise their benchmark rate to roughly 4.4% by year’s end, a full percentage point higher than they had forecast as recently as June. And they expect to raise the rate further next year, to about 4.6%. That would be the highest level since 2007. The central bank’s action Wednesday followed a government report last week that showed high costs spreading more broadly through the economy. By raising borrowing rates, the Fed makes it costlier to take out a mortgage or an auto or business loan. Consumers and businesses then presumably borrow and spend less, cooling the economy and slowing inflation. Speaking at a news conference, Chair Jerome Powell said that before Fed officials would consider halting their rate hikes, they would “want to be very confident that inflation is moving back down” to their 2% inflation target. He noted that the strength of the job market is fueling wage gains that are helping drive up inflation. Fed officials have said they are seeking a “soft landing,” by which they would manage to slow growth enough to tame inflation but not so much as to trigger a recession. Yet most economists say they think the Fed’s steep rate hikes will lead, over time, to job cuts, rising unemployment and a full-blown recession late this year or early next year. “No one knows whether this process will lead to a recession, or if so, how significant that recession would be,” Powell said at his news conference. “That’s going to depend on how quickly we bring down inflation.” In their updated economic forecasts, the Fed’s policymakers project that economic growth will remain weak for the next few years, with rising unemployment. It expects the jobless rate to reach 4.4% by the end of 2023, up from its current level of 3.7%. Historically, economists say, any time the unemployment rate has risen by a half-point over several months, a recession has always followed. Fed officials now see the economy expanding just 0.2% this year, sharply lower than its forecast of 1.7% growth just three months ago. And it expects sluggish growth below 2% from 2023 through 2025. And even with the steep rate hikes the Fed foresees, it still expects core inflation — which excludes the volatile food and gas categories — to be 3.1% at the end of next year, well above its 2% target. Powell acknowledged in a speech last month that the Fed’s moves will “bring some pain” to households and businesses. And he added that the central bank’s commitment to bringing inflation back down to its 2% target was “unconditional.” Falling gas prices have slightly lowered headline inflation, which was a still-painful 8.3% in August compared with a year earlier. Declining gas prices might have contributed to a recent rise in President Joe Biden’s public approval ratings, which Democrats hope will boost their prospects in the November midterm elections. Short-term rates at a level the Fed is now envisioning would make a recession likelier next year by sharply raising the costs of mortgages, car loans and business loans. The economy hasn’t seen rates as high as the Fed is projecting since before the 2008 financial crisis. Last week, the average fixed mortgage rate topped 6%, its highest point in 14 years. Credit card borrowing costs have reached their highest level since 1996, according to Bankrate.com. Inflation now appears increasingly fueled by higher wages and by consumers’ steady desire to spend and less by the supply shortages that had bedeviled the economy during the pandemic recession. On Sunday, though, Biden said on CBS’ “60 Minutes” that he believed a soft landing for the economy was still possible, suggesting that his administration’s recent energy and health care legislation would lower prices for pharmaceuticals and health care. Some economists are beginning to express concern that the Fed’s rapid rate hikes — the fastest since the early 1980s — will cause more economic damage than necessary to tame inflation. Mike Konczal, an economist at the Roosevelt Institute, noted that the economy is already slowing and that wage increases — a key driver of inflation — are levelling off and by some measures even declining a bit. Surveys also show that Americans are expecting inflation to ease significantly over the next five years. That is an important trend because inflation expectations can become self-fulfilling: If people expect inflation to ease, some will feel less pressure to accelerate their purchases. Less spending would then help moderate price increases. Konczal said there is a case to be made for the Fed to slow its rate hikes over the next two meetings. “Given the cooling that’s coming,” he said, “you don’t want to rush into this.” The Fed’s rapid rate hikes mirror steps that other major central banks are taking, contributing to concerns about a potential global recession. The European Central Bank last week raised its benchmark rate by three-quarters of a percentage point. The Bank of England, the Reserve Bank of Australia and the Bank of Canada have all carried out hefty rate increases in recent weeks. And in China, the world’s second-largest economy, growth is already suffering from the government’s repeated COVID lockdowns. If recession sweeps through most large economies, that could derail the U.S. economy, too. Even at the Fed’s accelerated pace of rate hikes, some economists — and some Fed officials — argue that they have yet to raise rates to a level that would actually restrict borrowing and spending and slow growth. Many economists sound convinced that widespread layoffs will be necessary to slow rising prices. Research published earlier this month under the auspices of the Brookings Institution concluded that unemployment might have to go as high as 7.5% to get inflation back to the Fed’s 2% target. Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly.

5 Wellness Tips To Improve Your Health As A Freelancer – MUO – MakeUseOf https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/5-wellness-tips-to-improve-your-health-as-a-freelancer-muo-makeuseof/ Freelancing, albeit flexible and potentially lucrative, can be a menace to your overall well-being. For most of your career as a freelancer, you may be susceptible to a sedentary lifestyle that increases your risk of postural issues and eating disorders. A decline in your health could affect your output and ultimately cost you your job. Hence, it is important to take proactive steps in managing your health. Here are some valuable tips for improving and maintaining your health as a freelancer. How Freelancing Could Lead to Poor Health Freelancing can be just as demanding as a regular full-time job, if not more so. While it gives you work autonomy, having to meet the demands of several clients effectively can make you neglect other aspects of your life. You may find yourself sitting at a spot for hours, having long screen time, skipping meals, distancing yourself from family and friends, and voluntarily opting out of social activities. Repeatedly doing all these things may result in several unhealthy habits. And in turn, these habits could affect your vision, social life, posture, sleep, and eating patterns. Tips for Improving Your Health as a Freelancer The good part is that these bad habits are avoidable. You can manage your well-being without jeopardizing your freelance career. Here are a few tips to make that feasible. 1. Protect Your Vision Digital screens, including laptops, smartphones, and TVs, emit blue light that at especially high intensities over long periods may be harmful to your eyes. Sadly, a majority of your job as a freelancer requires being on a screen—from sourcing for clients, closing a deal, and executing a task. This keeps you at risk of phone or computer eye strain (which you can relieve), as well as blurry vision and constant headaches. One way to care for your eyes is by using blue light glasses. These types of eyewear aim to limit the blue light waves that come from your work devices. Alternatively, you can set your laptop or phone screen to “eye care” settings or night mode to provide relief from the side effects of extended usage. For lasting solutions, consider scheduling and limiting your screen time. Apps like Freedom and Space can be incredibly useful in this regard. Using blue light glasses and setting your laptop or phone on night mode will only go so far. The best way to care for your eyes is to minimize screen time and take intermittent breaks away from your workstation to look outside and get some air. 2. Monitor Your Diet One of the downsides of freelancing is having tight schedules that give you little or no time to make healthy dietary choices. The deadlines and work pressure make it easy to resort to poorly prepared, processed meals. Worse still, you might skip breakfast or eat late into the night. These eating habits adversely affect your overall well-being. To avoid such scenarios, adequately plan your schedule to give you ample time to cook your meals ahead of time. Meal planning apps such as MyNetDiary, MyPlate Calorie Counter, Noom, and Yummly can be invaluable. If you have the budget, you can also contact a chef to home-cook your meals or order take-outs from trusted brands with healthy menus. And don’t forget about staying hydrated with apps like WaterMinder! 3. Maintain a Physical Fitness Routine The easiest way to manage the sedentary lifestyle that comes with freelancing is to engage in physical fitness activities before or after your work time. These activities are health boosters that greatly improve your well-being. They also help you complete your work routine with optimal endurance and strength to help you avoid burnout. You can engage in stay-at-home fitness activities that don’t require going to a gym. Some popular exercises are chair squats, skipping, desk push-ups, desk planks, 10-minute walks, floor push-ups, and squat jumps. Most importantly, consistency is key to getting maximum results from these activities. As much as you want to exercise only at your convenience, know that it is necessary for healthy living. Infuse a variety of exercises into your daily routine to help you stay consistent both on the days when you feel like it and the days when you don’t. While you’re at it, you can get a smartwatch or simply an app to help you track your fitness journey. You can also download reminders to notify you when to stop sitting and move around—such as StandUp, Wakeout, and StretchMinder. 4. Maintain Proper Posture A good posture is when the body is in a symmetric alignment. However, having a good posture is often far-fetched for most freelancers. Your neck, arms, shoulders, waist, and back can become stiff due to prolonged working hours, poor sitting arrangement, and lack of movement. It starts with a pop when you stretch certain body parts, then transcends to pain and even numbness on severe occasions. To improve your posture: Invest in an ergonomic office chair to help prevent slouching and support your spinal alignment and lumbar area. Buy a sturdy desk. Adjust the chair to a height that’s in line with the desk, and make it comfortable for you. These essentials specifically work to minimize back pain. Furthermore, engage in exercises that strengthen your muscles, such as cycling, lifting weights, dancing, push-ups, and climbing stairs (if your apartment has them). Most importantly, you should work on increasing your mobility. You can also download posture monitoring and improvement apps like Posture Pal, Posture Reminder, and Perfect Posture and Healthy Back to aid postural correction. 5. Prioritize Healthy Sleeping Habits Shutterstock“” data-img-url=”https://static1.makeuseofimages.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/best-sleep-tech.jpg” data-modal-container-id=”single-image-modal-container” data-modal-id=”single-image-modal” Image Credit: Damir Khabirov/Shutterstock Sleep is a naturally recurring event where the body and mind are at rest. It is also a great way to recharge and refresh for increased productivity. Because fatigue, exhaustion, and brain drain are common occurrences in freelancing, it is important to develop a feasible bedtime routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. An adult requires between seven and nine hours of quality sleep on average, according to the US Centers for Disease Control. But quality sleep goes beyond the duration; you need to feel well-rested when you wake up. To that effect, endeavor to brush, bathe, and do a little exercise each day before drawing your curtains. Moreover, according to the American Heart Association, a sleep-deprived adult may be at higher risk of depression, anxiety, stroke, and diabetes. So, give yourself the rest you need by scanning your schedule and blocking out hours for rest. Do you have more responsibilities in the morning, afternoon, or night? Whatever the case, intentionally organize your priorities, ensuring you get enough hours of sleep. Furthermore, avoid caffeine and stimulants, as they can make it difficult to fall asleep at a reasonable time. If you are experiencing insomnia symptoms, visit an authorized healthcare center for proper care and medication. You can also use sleep apps like Sleep++, Sleep Monitor, Sleep Bot, and Sleep Cycle to monitor your sleep. A Healthy Lifestyle Helps You Stay on Top of Your Freelancing Career The freelancing lifestyle can be draining and bad for your health. However, knowing what to look out for and applying the tips in this article can help you stay healthy and productive in the long run.

Three Popular Basketball Shoes Release Today – Sports Illustrated https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/three-popular-basketball-shoes-release-today-sports-illustrated/ It has never been a better time to be a basketball player, fan, or sneakerhead. Buying kicks has never been easier, thanks to the confluence of frequent sneaker releases and technology. However, it is rare to see three important pairs of basketball shoes all drop on the same day. Nike and its subsidiary company, Jordan Brand, must have circled September 21, 2022, on their calendars. Below is everything consumers need to know about today’s important sneaker releases. Nike LeBron 9 Low ‘Liverpool FC’ View of the Nike LeBron 9 Low ‘Liverpool FC’ Nike Details: Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James has one of the most impressive sneaker histories of any athlete. That is why Nike is bringing back a shoe that ‘King James’ wore during the 2011-12 NBA season when he played for the Miami Heat.  The Nike LeBron 9 Low ‘Liverpool FC’ pays tribute to the historic soccer team with colors described as New Green, Action Red, and Black. This classic LeBron shoe is perfect for fans of any sport around the world. Price: $185 in Men’s Sizes. How To Buy: Nike Website and select retailers. Additionally, sneaker resale sites like eBay, StockX, and GOAT. Air Jordan 1 Mid ‘Bred Toe’ View of the Air Jordan 1 Mid ‘Bred Toe’ Nike Details: The shoe that started it all for Michael Jordan. Widely considered the greatest player of all time, Jordan is also equally important in the sneaker world. Jordan Brand is re-releasing this timeless shoe in OG Chicago Bulls colors. Over the years, the colorway has become known as ‘Bred’ (a combination of the words black and red). Scroll to Continue Price: $125 in Men’s Sizes. How To Buy: Jordan Brand website and select retailers. Additionally, sneaker resale sites like eBay, StockX, and GOAT. Jordan Zion 2 ‘Duke’ View of the Jordan Zion 2 ‘Duke’ Nike Details: New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson is healthy and ready to wreak havoc on the NBA again this season. Jordan Brand has designed a shoe capable of supporting one of the league’s most powerful players. However, this colorway reflects on Williamson’s incredible season with the Duke Blue Devils. Whether on the court or in the stands, it is hard to go wrong with a pair of royal blue and black hoop shoes. Price: $120 in Men’s Sizes. How To Buy: Jordan Brand website and select retailers. Additionally, sneaker resale sites like eBay, StockX, and GOAT. Recommended For You Official Images & Details for Nike LeBron 20 Jordan Zion 2 Official Images & Details Zion Wears Air Jordans & Coach K Shirt

Alibaba Launches Luxury Shopping Experience In Metaverse – WWD https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/alibaba-launches-luxury-shopping-experience-in-metaverse-wwd/ Alibaba Group said it is “multiplying the ways that luxury brands can connect with China’s affluent shoppers in the metaverse” via the release of a series of digital upgrades as well as an augmented reality fashion show on Thursday.  The launch is part of the fifth anniversary of the company’s Tmall Luxury Pavilion, which Alibaba describes as “the largest online destination in China to host over 200 luxury brands from the five major luxury groups.”  Janet Wang, head of Alibaba’s luxury division, acknowledged that the pandemic was challenging for retailers but said online consumption by the Chinese luxury consumer has been resilient. “While the majority of luxury shopping still takes place in physical retail stores, online and omnichannel expansion has steadily increased — China’s luxury online penetration surged to 23 percent in 2020, up from 12 percent the previous year,” Alibaba said in a statement. “Tmall Luxury Pavilion hosts more than [200] luxury brands, up from 150 before the coronavirus outbreak. While many cities in China have sporadically gone into lockdown, over 1,000 shopping events and new product launches took place digitally on the platform this year and last year.”  The company said luxury brands have continued to launch on Tmall Luxury Pavilion this year, “even during the economic downturn, including Bulgari, Moncler and Brunello Cucinelli.”  “We saw how quickly brands embraced digital transformation and consumers increased their online consumption,” said Wang, adding that consumption trends during the pandemic included an increase in gifting for loved ones and purchases of home furnishings as well as purchases of objects that hold their value, such as watches and jewelry.  Between 2019 and 2021, the customer base of the Tmall Luxury Pavilion soared 150 percent while sales jumped 300 percent, the company said, citing the platform’s innovative digital experiences as the reason for its growth.  Regarding this latest digital experience, Wang said before metaverse became a buzzword, “we had already transformed this buzzword into a commercial reality. Now, as part of its fifth-anniversary celebration, Luxury Pavilion is hosting an augmented reality fashion show on Sept. 22 in collaboration with Vogue China and various artists.”  “Instead of supermodels, imagine ‘super mascots’ from top luxury brands will strut their stuff down virtual runways,” Wang said. “Viewers on Tmall Luxury Pavilion’s platform can interact with these super mascots in various ways, including taking selfies with them.”  Wang said the Tmall Luxury Pavilion is also introducing “a new Meta Pass, which confers priority digital access to products from brands such as Burberry and Max Mara.”  The Meta Pass package includes digital warrants that are certified on the blockchain. “Swift-footed consumers will be able to exchange these warrants for limited editions, including Bogner’s 90th anniversary snowboard, Max Mara’s fall 2022 collection oversize sweater, Burberry’s signature Lola bag and Marni’s fleece-lined Pablo sneakers,” Wang said, adding that the digital environment “can provide consumers with the same, or even better, shopping experiences and luxury-brand identities than in the real world.”  Over the past few years, the Tmall Luxury Pavilion has “deployed 3D shopping, augmented reality and virtual reality try-ons for products, digital avatars and digital collectibles,” Alibaba said in a statement, noting that more than 20 luxury brands have released digital art collectibles on the platform as well as held virtual fashion shows.  ‘This year, Cartier, Vacheron Constantin, Burberry and others used video consultants to livestream one-on-one with VIP customers,” the company said. “More than 20 brands have launched watch testing on Tmall Luxury Pavilion, and other digital services such as bracelet adjustment, bag maintenance, even down to shoe cleaning.”

This Clever $9 Sponge Holder And Soap Dispenser Combo ‘makes Washing Dishes Less Annoying’ – Yahoo Life https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/this-clever-9-sponge-holder-and-soap-dispenser-combo-makes-washing-dishes-less-annoying-yahoo-life/ If you’re like us, you wish to spend less time washing dishes. And you likely aspire minimize clutter too. (We all do.) Well, we’ve found a gizmo that helps with both: a soap-dispensing sponge holder! And it’s on sale for just $9 (was $14) on Amazon. Rather than leaving your sad little sponge sitting wet in the sink, let it rest on this handy dispenser. When you need it, simply press it to pump suds up to your scrubber. This brings an end to your daily fumble with that cumbersome, slippery dish soap bottle once and for all. Save, save, save If you think we sound excited, there are 19,100-plus five-star Amazon reviewers who’ve tried and love it. For it saves them time, soap, space, money and headache. “My favorite kitchen gadget,” writes a happy shopper. “I love using this dispenser. Quick, easy and works for me.” Another enthused: “Saves wasted soap by dispensing a small amount onto the sponge. It is quick access and easy to use for a few dishes.” Loads of reviewers call it a “must have,” “a game changer” and a “kitchen essential.” But one deadpan fan framed their adoration a bit differently: “Makes washing dishes less annoying.” Isn’t that the main goal here, people? “Is this a kitchen necessity?” they continued, “No. Does it make dishwashing much easier? Yes…Not having to constantly re-apply soap to my sponge via the bottle is a convenience I appreciate! Just a little push down and bam, soaped up. Also, having a good spot to keep my sponge between uses so it doesn’t get lost in dirty dishes or water all over the counter is quite wonderful! I highly recommend this product!!” Streamline your dishwashing routine with this handy soap-dispensing sponge holder! (Photo: Amazon) A true kitchen hero Some shoppers don’t just want easier-to-use items, they need it. Readers with grip problems or painful hands say this clever sponge-soaper-upper, which holds up to 13 oz, has proved to be a real help as it requires just one hand and a gentle tap. “I have arthritis and it is hard for me to hold a regular dish soap bottle,” wrote a five-star reviewer. “This soap dispenser has made it so much easier for me!” A very grateful fan, who included photos, wrote: “I love this product and ordered a second one for my mom. The ability to load the sponge with soap with one hand is very helpful for her because she has limited use of one hand due to a stroke. The product came with an extra pump, a sponge and the container. It was very easy to assemble and fill. The pump reaches way down to the very bottom of the container assuring it’ll use all of the soap before it needs to be refilled. The sponge is actually very cool because it causes the soap to get really sudsy.” Beyond the kitchen sink It’s not just for your kitchen at home, either. “Where was this when my boys were little?” wrote a five-star fan, “Total game changer. It has saved me so much dish liquid in the last 3 to 4 months my first one was in the kitchen that I am adding one to the bathroom for easy cleanup and if I had a laundry room I would add as well as a quick spot clean station good job.” Another who bought a second one wrote: “It was inexpensive enough to buy for the office which has a tight kitchen space. It avoids having to have both a sponge tray and the soap bottle.” If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.) The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication. Looking for more great Amazon home deals? Check these out: Outdoor Energizer Universal Plus LED Headlamp, 2-Pack $16 Chanodug Three Donkeys Extra Large Picnic Blanket $24$46Save $22 Love Story Triangle Sand Sun Shade Sail Canopy $36$49Save $13 Kurifier Outdoor Solar Torch Lights 8-pack $70 Grilljoy 24-piece BBQ Grill Tools Set $27$60Save $33 Vacuums ThisWorx Car Vacuum Cleaner $15$40Save $25 ILIFE V80 Max Robot Vacuum Cleaner $175$280Save $105 Belife Cordless 6-in-1 Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner $140$229Save $89 eufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S (Slim) $140$200Save $60 whall Cordless Vacuum Cleaner $127$400Save $273 iRobot Roomba i3 EVO Robot Vacuum $300$350Save $50 Hoover Windtunnel Air Steerable Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner $136$200Save $64 Kitchen Ultrean 4.2-quart Air Fryer $55$96Save $41 Braun 12 Cup Food Processor $200$349Save $149 Lodge Cast Iron Combo Cooker $50$75Save $25 CHEF iQ Smart Pressure Cooker $180$200Save $20 Rockridge Press The Complete Air Fryer Cookbook $10$17Save $7 Vtopmart Airtight Food Storage Containers $24$52Save $28 Originally published September 21, 2022, 2:21 PM

Helium Crypto Price Prediction – Time To Buy HNT? – Cryptonews https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/helium-crypto-price-prediction-time-to-buy-hnt-cryptonews/ Yesterday the price of Helium crypto rocketed up by 29% to $5.71 before harshly correcting back down to $4.68. It could be said that this particular move was another ‘Buy the rumor sell the news’ event following a very huge partnership. Will HNT crypto recover? HNT is available to buy on Binance.  Cryptoassets are a highly volatile unregulated investment product. Helium (HNT) Crypto Price Prediction   As the relative strength index exceeded 70, traders promptly pulled out their Helium positions on exchanges causing the price to plummet.  News in relation to a T-mobile partnership was the core reason to the Helium crypto pump, whilst long-term this is a fantastic business initiation the short-term price action is looking rather gloomy. It was just less than 24 hours ago the official @Helium Twitter page announced the partnership, and already the Helium (HNT) price has corrected by a painful 20% since the announcement.  On the macro-scale Helium (HNT) is trading within a giant symmetrical triangle and it seems the price had nowhere else to go up, however, yesterday proved that wrong.  HNT/USDT – Daily Time Frame. The long wick at the top of yesterday’s green daily candle reflects a large amount of selling pressure from holders and signifies that the bulls have weakened over the last week.  If HNT struggles to hold the $4.72 price level, there is a chance we might see negative continuation down to the support trendline of the triangle at around $4.46. On the 6th of September Helium crypto set a possible bottom at $3.26, if September perseveres with more turmoil for the crypto markets HNT is at risk of revisiting the $3 levels.  Can the HNT Bulls Take Over? All is not lost yet for the Helium (HNT) crypto bulls. Over the last few days Helium has traded with a lot of volatility and the relative strength index has been continuously coming back down to levels between 30.50-40.50.  The above historical data suggests that there is still space for another impulse wave to the upside, which could offer an increase in price of roughly 9.77%. This would take the price of Helium (HNT) crypto back to an imperative psychological resistance level of $5. I speculate that Helium crypto could potentially have space for massive long-term growth by the next crypto bull run. Coinmarketcap states that Helium crypto has a rather low market capital of $565 million and the market capital all time high was $5.38 billion set back in November 2021. I would be keen to see the Helium crypto market capital exceed $10b by 2025, potentially making this a contender for a healthy diverse crypto portfolio. HNT crypto is available to buy on Binance. Cryptoassets are a highly volatile unregulated investment product. Helium (HNT) Crypto Video Analysis Only a few days remain for September, a month that is notoriously dangerous for the entire blockchain market. Hopefully October will offer a blissful turnaround leading to the market sentiment flipping back to neutral where we will see altcoins back on the rise.  Whilst Helium crypto is certainly looking promising for the future, here is our list of the best altcoins that could boom in October.

U.S. Veterans Alex Drueke, Andy Huynh Freed In Russia-Ukraine Prisoner Swap – The Washington Post https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/u-s-veterans-alex-drueke-andy-huynh-freed-in-russia-ukraine-prisoner-swap-the-washington-post/ Two U.S. military veterans held captive for months by Russian-backed separatists in northeastern Ukraine have been released along with eight other foreigners, part of a broader prisoner exchange between Moscow and Kyiv that was brokered with the involvement of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the government in Riyadh and one of the American’s families said Wednesday. Alexander J. Drueke and Andy Tai Huynh, both of Alabama, were captured in June near the northeastern border city of Kharkiv. They are among the hundreds of Westerners who have traveled to Ukraine to take up arms against Russian forces. Drueke served previously in the U.S. Army while Huynh is a Marine Corps veteran. The men’s release was startling development, its announcement coming hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin said he had ordered the mobilization of 300,000 military reservists to shore up the Kremlin’s staggering battlefield losses over the last seven months. Officials at the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia called the Americans’ families on Wednesday morning, said Dianna Shaw, Drueke’s aunt. Drueke’s mother, Lois Drueke, spoke to him for about 10 minutes, and said her son appeared to be in good condition, Shaw said, noting that Dreuke and Huynh were expected to receive medical screenings later in the day. “He sounded clearheaded, with clear speech,” Shaw said. “He sounded like himself.” Shaw expressed amazement at how the men’s release had come about, even as they awaited additional details. “I never dreamed it was a possibility that the Saudi government would be able to do something like this,” she said. “But any port in a storm.” The Saudi government said in a statement that the other prisoners released were from Britain, Morocco, Sweden and Croatia. It was not immediately clear who was released in exchange for them. British Prime Minister Liz Truss said in a tweet that it was “hugely welcome news that five British nationals held by Russian-backed proxies in eastern Ukraine are being safely returned, ending months of uncertainty and suffering for them and their families.” Hugely welcome news that five British nationals held by Russian-backed proxies in eastern Ukraine are being safely returned, ending months of uncertainty and suffering for them and their families. — Liz Truss (@trussliz) September 21, 2022 Truss thanked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for his efforts to release the prisoners, and added that Russia “must end the ruthless exploitation of prisoners of war and civilian detainees for political ends.” At least half a dozen U.S. citizens are believed to have been killed in Ukraine since the invasion began in February. Another American citizen, retired Marine Corps officer Grady Kurpasi, was reported missing in southern Ukraine in late April. He was not among the prisoners released Wednesday, said George Heath, a friend speaking on behalf of Kurpasi’s family. Kurpasi was last seen near the southern city of Mykolaiv, when he went to investigate the source of incoming fire. A short time later, Willy Cancel, another Marine Corps veteran in the same group, was fatally wounded, becoming the first known American veteran to die in combat in Ukraine. The Drueke and Huynh families have had sporadic contact with their loved ones since their capture, but the calls often seemed tense and scripted, Shaw said in an earlier interview. One of the biggest challenges in captivity, Drueke said in audio provided to The Post in July, was “finding little things to think about, just, you know, [to] fill in the boredom.” Alex Horton, Karen DeYoung and Souad Mekhennet contributed to this report. War in Ukraine: What you need to know The latest: Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a “partial mobilization” of troops in an address to the nation on Sept. 21, framing the move as an attempt to defend Russian sovereignty against a West that seeks to use Ukraine as a tool to “divide and destroy Russia.” Follow our live updates here. The fight: A successful Ukrainian counteroffensive has forced a major Russian retreat in the northeastern Kharkiv region in recent days, as troops fled cities and villages they had occupied since the early days of the war and abandoned large amounts of military equipment. Annexation referendums: Staged referendums, which would be illegal under international law, are set to take place from Sept. 23 to 27 in the breakaway Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine, according to Russian news agencies. Another staged referendum will be held by the Moscow-appointed administration in Kherson starting Friday. Photos: Washington Post photographers have been on the ground from the beginning of the war — here’s some of their most powerful work. How you can help: Here are ways those in the U.S. can help support the Ukrainian people as well as what people around the world have been donating. Read our full coverage of the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Are you on Telegram? Subscribe to our channel for updates and exclusive video.

DXC Technology Engages Bankers After Takeover Interest – Bloomberg News – Financial Post https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/dxc-technology-engages-bankers-after-takeover-interest-bloomberg-news-financial-post/ Author of the article: DXC Technology Co is working with financial advisers after receiving takeover interest from at least one private equity firm, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter. Shares of the information technology services provider, which has a market capitalisation of more than $6 billion, rose as much as 9% after the report. Financial Post Top Stories Sign up to receive the daily top stories from the Financial Post, a division of Postmedia Network Inc. By clicking on the sign up button you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. You may unsubscribe any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link at the bottom of our emails. Postmedia Network Inc. | 365 Bloor Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 3L4 | 416-383-2300 When contacted by Reuters, DXC said it does not comment on “market rumor and speculation.” The identity of potential investors that approached DXC and whether the IT services company is open to sale are not immediately clear, according to the Bloomberg report. PE firms have stepped up deal making, taking advantage of the fall in valuations of technology companies due to worries over rising interest rates and an economic slowdown. Vista Equity Partners this week offered to buy software security firm KnowBe4 Inc. The report comes over a year after DXC ended merger talks with French IT consulting group Atos SE, which had made a $10 billion offer for the company. (https://reut.rs/3QVGsdG) (Reporting by Yuvraj Malik in Bengaluru; Editing by Maju Samuel) Advertisement 2 This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.

Xbox Cloud Gaming Goodness Is Coming To The New Logitech G CLOUD Right At Launch – Neowin https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/xbox-cloud-gaming-goodness-is-coming-to-the-new-logitech-g-cloud-right-at-launch-neowin/ Logitech’s latest device, G CLOUD Gaming Handheld, is set to make its debut in North America on the 17th of October, and as the leaked renders revealed previously, it will come with support for cloud gaming services. Now, Xbox has announced that Xbox Cloud Gaming will be available with Logitech’s handheld console once it hits the market. G CLOUD Gaming Handheld comes with a 16:9 full-screen display and offers extended battery life along with built-in Wi-Fi, and ergonomic controls. This will allow you to get online for multiplayer sessions or progress through campaigns. Along with Grounded and Sea of Thieves, with an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership, you will be able to play a wide variety of titles in addition to new games from Xbox Game Studios and Bethesda, and titles from partners including The Gunk, PowerWash Simulator, and Tunic. Playing Fortnite will also require no Game Pass subscription. Xbox Cloud Gaming shortcut will appear pinned right to the home screen once you boot up your Logitech G CLOUD. Remote Play feature will also be pinned as a shortcut to the home screen. Currently, G CLOUD Gaming Handheld is available for pre-order at a discounted price of $299.99, which saves you $50 from its original price of $349.99. It comes with a two-year hardware warranty. You can find the specs and details of Logitech G CLOUD Gaming Handheld below: DIMENSIONS Lenght: 10.11 in (256.84 mm) Width: 4.61 in (117.21 mm) Height: 1.30 in (32.95 mm) COMPUTE Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (SD720G) Octa-core CPU up to 2.3GHzResolution: 1920 x 1080 FHD (16:9 ratio) DISPLAY Resolution: 1920 x 1080 FHD (16:9 ratio) Type: IPS LCD Brightness: 450 nits typical Display Size: 7″ diagonal Fresh Rate: 60 Hz Touch Enabled: multi-touch AUDIO Stereo speaker, driven by high voltage smart amplifier providing clear playback Stereo microphone, featuring echo canceling and noise suppression with high quality codec and DSP 3.5mm stereo headphone/headset jack AUX output support Bluetooth® 5.1, with Qualcomm® aptXTM Adaptive support Digital USB-C headphone support CONTROL A / B / X / Y buttons D-Pad L & R analog joysticks L & R bumpers L & R analog triggers L & R option buttons G button and Home button SENSE CONTROL AND FEEDBACK Linear Haptics 6-axis IMU sensor Ambient light sensor WIFI Dual-band Wi-Fi radio, 2.4GHz and 5GHz 2 x 2 MIMO IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac BLUETOOTH Bluetooth 5.1 BATTERY Battery Type : Rechargeable Li-Polymer Number of Cells: 2 cells in parallel Battery Weight(g): 90 Battery Watt Hours (Wh): 23.1 EXPANSION TF Card For more information on Logitech G CLOUD Gaming Handheld, and Xbox Cloud Gaming, head over to the dedicated webpage here and here, respectively.

Open Jim: What’s The Recipe For Wisconsin To Upset Ohio State? – Kenosha News https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/open-jim-whats-the-recipe-for-wisconsin-to-upset-ohio-state-kenosha-news/ The University of Wisconsin football team is 2-1 entering the Big Ten opener at Ohio State. Badgers players saw improvements after beating New Mexico State. CHRIS DOYLE, STATE JOURNAL There’s nothing like a big game and, if the airlines cooperate, I’ll be at two of them this weekend. So please check out our coverage from UW-Ohio State on Saturday and Packers-Bucs on Sunday. This is one of the largest mailbags in the history of Open Jim. I asked for questions and you delivered some good ones, so thank you. Check out this week’s podcast, which includes a breakdown of what I consider the worst nonconference opponents to play at Camp Randall Stadium over the past 20 years plus my answers to the following three questions: Has Engram drawn up his own plays or is this his reordering of the Cryst playbook? — David Koller (@DavidBKoller) September 20, 2022 Would you still take the badgers to win the west (basically are we taking Minnesota for real?) — Ryan Matson (@RyanMats23) September 20, 2022 So, we’ve seen that Mertz has seemingly improved in the passing game this year, albeit against far lesser competition. Will it be enough to keep OSU even remotely honest and to respect both phases of offense, or will it not matter? — Eli (@ElijahJ1997) September 20, 2022 As always, thank you reading. If you have a question for the Open Jim mailbag, either send me a tweet @JimPolzinWSJ or email me at jpolzin@madison.com. Click this link to subscribe to BadgerExtra and this one to become a Wisconsin State Journal print and/or madison.com digital member. You’re also invited to follow me on Twitter and Facebook, where you also can join our Wisconsin Badgers fan group. It is Sunday at 9am and Badger fans are drinking their coffee reading about how Paul Chryst and the team pulled off an upset win in Columbus the night before. What happened in the game to allow this? — Brandon Zall (@BZall10) September 19, 2022 3 things that have to happen for a it to be a one score game heading to the 4th quarter — Douglas Greenberg (@DougGreenB) September 20, 2022 You’re the coach. How are we going to beat OSU? — John Karcher (@JohnKarcher) September 20, 2022 If fans are reading about the game, I hope it’s on BadgerExtra.com or the BadgerExtra app. Colten Bartholomew, Jake Kocorowski and I will be in Columbus and will working hard to break down UW’s performance, win or lose. Now, onto a recipe for an upset: UW has to win the turnover battle, probably by plus-two or more. It needs to play a relatively clean game, avoiding the drive-killing penalties that couldn’t be overcome against Washington State. It needs to take advantage of every scoring opportunity and finish off drives in the red zone. Conversely, the UW defense is going to give up yards but can help keep this game close by forcing Ohio State to settle for field goals. How is all of this going to happen? Two UW position groups have to have terrific games, in my opinion: the offensive line and the cornerbacks. If Graham Mertz can’t get comfortable in the pocket, things could get ugly. If UW can control the line of scrimmage and strike a balance between the pass and run, then maybe it can shorten the game by putting together some time-consuming drives. On the other side of the ball, the Badgers have to keep chunk plays to a minimum. Again, it’s going to be impossible to shut down Ohio State completely. But make the Buckeyes work for everything, knock C.J. Stroud out of his comfort zone and perhaps come up with a timely interception or two and I could see this being a game in the second half. One final thing: UW’s special teams have to break even. That’s a big ask from a unit that hasn’t been very good the past few years. There it is, a blueprint to a shocker. Sounds easy, right? Hard to criticize these recent defenses much, but it seems we see fewer dynamic blitzes with man coverage than we did certainly with Dave Aranda, but also Justin Wilcox and even early Jim Leonhard. Any data on this? I may simply be a mis-remembering fan. — Matt Ellenbecker (@mattde5er) September 19, 2022 UW didn’t have to get too exotic with its blitzes last season with Leo Chenal wreaking havoc up the middle and a great edge rusher in Nick Herbig. But, according to PFF, the Badgers did blitz on 38.1% of pass plays in 2021, which was higher than 2015 (29.3%), 2016 (27.2%) and 2017 (21%). UW has only blitzed on 19.2% of pass plays so far this season, but I think that’s more a reflection of overmatched opponents and lopsided scores in two of three games. It will be interesting to see what Jim Leonhard has up his sleeve for Ohio State on Saturday. What, in your opinion, should be the Badgers starting O Line? — Jake Gosdeck (@jigosdeck) September 19, 2022 Will Bostad make the O-line changes to Bortolini and Wedig that sparked us Saturday? — Steve (@Steve39381985) September 20, 2022 I’ll leave the lineup decisions to Bob Bostad, but I wouldn’t be surprised if UW’s offensive line coach went with Tanor Bortolini at right guard and Trey Wedig at right tackle. If Riley Mahlman is at 100%, then I’d swap him in for Wedig. Has Engram drawn up his own plays or is this his reordering of the Cryst playbook? — David Koller (@DavidBKoller) September 20, 2022 I don’t think we’ve seen everything from Bobby Engram’s playbook yet, so I imagine he’ll throw a wrinkle or two at the Buckeyes. It’s been a solid start for UW’s new offensive coordinator. Some fans were all over him after the Washington State game, but I thought he called a good game other than the failed fourth-down play. It’ll be interesting to see how this offense performs in Big Ten play and going against Ohio State in the opener is going to be a good measuring stick for Engram’s ability as a play-caller. I have a general belief that for Wisconsin to beat OSU every once in a while, we need to have our stars stick around the extra year & not go pro. So we have 4&5 yr guys Vs their 3&4 yr guys. I doubt that happens but what are your thoughts on my belief? — Chris Davis (@cdavis20000) September 20, 2022 That theory makes a lot of sense to me, Chris. We may find out as early as next season because UW should have a lot of experience returning and Ohio State will be in the process of replacing some really good players, including a pair of potential top-five picks in Stroud and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. By the way, I’ll have a column later this week on how the gap between UW and Ohio State has widened over the years. If Wisconsin was somehow able to defeat OSU at OSU at night this weekend (we can dream, right?) where would that rank on the all-time (or modern era) list of Badger football upsets? — Chris Davis (@cdavis20000) September 19, 2022 Ohio State is favored by 18½ points as I write this and, according to super fan @akschaff on Twitter (Thanks, Andy), “this would be the longest odds the Badgers have faced in a game in at least 25 years.” That’s good info and Andy even has a handy-dandy spreadsheet that lists the times UW has been a double-digit underdog during that stretch. Based on that, the longest odds UW has overcome in the last 2½ decades came in 2001 at Ohio State (a 20-17 win as a 13-point underdog) and in 2016 vs. LSU at Lambeau Field (16-14 as a 12½-point underdog). UW was anywhere from a nine- to 11-point underdog when it upset Ohio State, 20-16, at Camp Randall Stadium in 1992. The Badgers finished 5-6 that season and just missed out on a bowl game, but Barry Alvarez has pointed to that victory as a huge one in the rebuilding project he was leading. The other big upset that comes to mind is a 21-14 victory over No. 1 Michigan in the 1981 opener. I couldn’t find a spread for that game anywhere, but it had to have been significant because the Wolverines had outscored the Badgers 176-0 over the teams’ previous four meetings. Beating the Buckeyes on Saturday night would rank right up there but I don’t think it would overtake that win over the Wolverines 40-plus years ago. Any chance that Braelon sees greener grass on the other side? Love PC, but Allen isn’t winning anything outside cod a B1G West Championship here. — steveo (@badger8350) September 20, 2022 Anything can happen in the transfer portal era, but I don’t sense Braelon Allen is unhappy. He gets to play close to his family and friends and gets to be the featured back at a program that runs the ball a lot and has a history of sending tailbacks to the NFL. Allen could have gone almost anywhere out of high school and chose UW. Why leave now, especially since I think 2023 could be a really good season for the Badgers? Can we manufacture at least 5 meaningful touches for Isaac on Saturday night? Is 5 enough? Love Chez, but should he be RB3? — William (@realturntwill) September 20, 2022 I like what I’ve seen from Isaac Guerendo but I wouldn’t put him ahead of Chez Mellusi, who I think has looked good coming off a knee injury. It’ll be interesting to see how the touches are distributed in a non-blowout situation. Guerendo may get to five when you count kickoff returns, but I don’t see that total going much higher than that. Is the OL good enough to run against OSU for 200 plus yards? — JMW123 (@jmw1235) September 20, 2022 That seems like a lofty goal to me. Ohio State has held UW under 100 yards four times during its eight-game winning streak in the series. I think something like 150 would be a decent target to hit and might give UW a chance provided its passing game is adequate. Does John Torchio and the Badgers secondary have enough speed to stop the Buckeyes receivers? — Michael Paduano (@greenwave70) September 20, 2022 That’s my biggest concern heading into this game on that side of the ball. It’s not just John Torchio and the safeties; I also wonder if the UW cornerba...

Want To Check In To Your Hotel Early? Good Luck. – The Washington Post https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/want-to-check-in-to-your-hotel-early-good-luck-the-washington-post/ It’s a travel math problem that doesn’t always work out: Your flight lands early in the morning, but the hotel check-in time isn’t until 3 or 4 p.m. Sure, you can veg out in the lobby or leave your bags with the bell desk and explore. But if what you really want to do is shower and nap, you’ll have to pray to the early check-in gods or, in some cases, pay an extra fee for those additional hours. And don’t forget that check-out is typically at 11 a.m., in case you had plans on your final day. Staying for just one day? Enjoy your 20 hours at the hotel. The often-inconvenient times — which one operator called “an ancient hotel convention” — are set by hotels to make sure guests vacate their rooms with enough time to prepare them for the next round. “It’s a function of housekeeping,” said Gary Vallen, a hospitality consultant and co-author of the textbook “Check-In Check-Out: Managing Hotel Operations.” “Getting a room checked out, going and stripping that room, cleaning the room, getting it brought back online, having an inspector from the housekeeping department check it … takes you a little while.” For the average traveler, there are some ways to solve the issue of needing a hotel room before or after one is supposed to be available. It never hurts to ask if early check-in or late check-out is available for free. Some hotels might offer those benefits for a fee; hotel chain citizenM, for example, says check-in is guaranteed at 2 p.m. but available earlier for an extra charge at certain properties in Paris, Amsterdam and Taipei. Sites that allow people to rent mere hours at a hotel — such as HotelsByDay or Dayuse.com — can also make up the gap. The Dayuse site also includes options for hotel bookings with an early arrival or late departure. “If you look at urban business hotels now, a lot of them are trying to maximize revenue for rooms, so you have day-use rooms,” said Nicolas Graf, associate dean of the Tisch Center of Hospitality at New York University. Hotels will typically also let guests leave their bags in a secure location and use a pool, gym or spa while they wait for a room. That’s a perk few vacation rentals can offer even as they set their own strict times for checking in or out. “A well-run hotel is going to try to get you into your room as quickly as possible,” Vallen said. Some of these hotels need to offer morning check-in Some travelers have wild travel schedules in which they need to lay their heads before 3 o’clock. — Derrick E Jones (@deuceohsixx) September 15, 2022 For frequent travelers with elite status at hotel chains, checking in or out is likely to be a much more flexible endeavor. “It’s difficult to have a flexible policy for everybody, but it’s appropriate to have a flexible policy for the select customer,” said Vallen, professor emeritus at Northern Arizona University’s School of Hotel and Restaurant Management. “You want to cultivate them and you want to cater to them as much as you possibly can.” Ten years ago, Starwood Hotels and Resorts — which Marriott bought in 2016 — announced new benefits including 24-hour check-in for its “most prolific travelers.” “Turning an ancient hotel convention on its head, Starwood is for the first time ever abolishing the industry’s long-standing 3:00 p.m. check-in time and giving its most frequent travelers control of their own arrival and departure time,” the company said. The “Your24” benefit let loyalty members who stayed at the company’s hotels for 75 or more nights every year choose their check-in time and check out at the same time on their departure day. Marriott kept the benefit, but travelers must stay at its hotels 100 nights a year and spend $20,000 annually to qualify. Some smaller hotel chains, typically boutique or luxury properties, also offer more flexibility. Standard Hotels, with eight locations around the world, offers a “Standard Time” rate — which includes an additional fee — when rooms are available so guests can name their check-in and check-out times. “We started Standard Time to cater to the ever-changing needs and schedules of our guests,” Standard International CEO Amber Asher said in an email to The Washington Post. “As a growing international brand, we want to take care of the business traveler flying in on the red eye who needs to freshen up before a meeting and the late night Boom Boom reveler who really needs to sleep in. Like everything that we do at The Standard, we challenge ourselves to think outside of hotel norms.” The Peninsula Hotels, a Hong Kong-based luxury brand with 10 global properties, launched “Peninsula Time” across all its hotels in January 2021 after the feature started at its Beverly Hills location. Guests can choose a “fully flexible” arrival and departure time at no extra charge, though blackout dates apply. “Guests inform the property ahead of time their approximate check-in and check-out time to ensure that their room or suite is available for their every need,” Gareth Roberts, group director of brand and operations support for the hotel company’s owners and operator, the Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, said in an emailed statement. “By letting guests arrive earlier and stay longer, we hope to provide them with greater peace of mind — and an even more personalized experience.” Me: Hi, would I be able to do an early check-in for X day? Hotel: You have to check day of **calls day of** Me: I’d like to do early check in for 1pm Hotel: Yes, there’s availability! It’ll be $25. Me: $25?? NVM!! Never heard of a fee for early check on (esp by 2 hours) — Lauren DG (@LaurenDG_1) September 16, 2022 Graf said he doesn’t believe hotels have historically had the right technology to make “more informed decisions” about room availability. But he said that in light of the pandemic and labor shortages, more operators are investing in scheduling systems that use better data. “You have more productive processes that I think will potentially help solve part of the issue and potentially help people like you and me who want an early check-in,” Graf said. %

Mansfield Developer Eying Condo Neighborhood In Ashland With Rezone Request – Richland Source https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/mansfield-developer-eying-condo-neighborhood-in-ashland-with-rezone-request-richland-source/ Breaking News We send the biggest breaking news stories directly to you. Daily Headlines from Richland Source Read Richland Source’s latest headlines every morning. A Look at Local Events Highlights for the coming weekend, delivered 1x / week. Area History Explore the history of Richland County, Ohio. Recounted with articles, photographs, original art, and video. Email delivered on the 15th of each month.  Ashland Source Get all the latest headlines from Ashland County. Crawford Source Headlines from Crawford County, delivered 1x / week. Richland County Business Digest Delivered monthly with the latest Richland County property transfers, small business news and more.  Subscribe To All The weekly thrive newsletter Start your week off with local inspiration, recipes, wellness advice and more. Get the thrive newsletter in your inbox every Monday. Area Job Openings See all the latest local job openings, delivered 1x / week.

Commercial Real Estate: An Uncertain Era For Office Space – Vermont Biz https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/commercial-real-estate-an-uncertain-era-for-office-space-vermont-biz/ Photo: The old LL Bean location, at left, keeps watch over the empty space that will be Phase 1 of the new CityPlace. VermontBiz photo. by Timothy McQuiston, Vermont Business Magazine Real estate is in a state of flux, evolution, turmoil. Brick-and-mortar retail has been in decline since the dawn of the internet, even as retail sales from all platforms have boomed. This has left empty storefronts on Main Street and mannequins gazing into nothing at shopping malls. Restaurants would be thriving, by all accounts, if not for the workforce shortage across the country, which is acute in Vermont. Some eateries have closed or reduced staff or hours simply because they can’t find qualified help. Both are paying historically high wages to lure staff. Retail may have finally found its footing, with many malls and downtown shopping districts reporting an uptick in business since early summer. When the pandemic is eradicated — and that can be wishful thinking given that COVID cases are higher now than they were a year ago — we may begin to find that new normal of shopping and eating right around the corner. But other aspects of real estate may never be the same. Warehousing, necessitated by remote shopping, keeps growing colossus-sized structures along the interstates. Demand for hard-to-site manufacturing plants is also on the rise. This could continue if the globalization of the supply chain will be forever altered by the flaws in the system exposed by the pandemic. But the most profound changes appear to be in housing and office space. Typically, home prices do not come down, even during a recession. They may reach a point of stasis for an extended period (like the early 1990s here in Vermont), but homeowners are loathe to low-ball their own place — unless, of course, the housing bubble bursts, foreclosures lower prices and a recession suppresses demand. Homeowners may dump their car, their furniture, perhaps even their stocks, but most draw the line at putting their house on the market. Office space, on the other hand, appears to have little future in the grand scheme of things. Like an oligarch’s yacht, gleaming glass towers draw little interest during a downturn. Commercial real estate agents tell us smaller office buildings or co-working spaces are the future. This is driven by the pandemic, yes, but also by the changing nature of business. Smaller companies and sole proprietors don’t need enormous work spaces, in any case, and large white-collar firms have downsized their workforces by finding efficiencies. The story is the same in Vermont as it is across the nation. Commercial office space has largely been downsized for going on 2-plus years now, according to an industry innovator Repvblik. At this point, it’s clear many commercial landlords will have to rethink the way they do things, even in places as old school and hard-nosed as New York City.  But Richard Rubin and his firm Repvblik have a plan to help distressed commercial real estate by buying properties and turning them into affordable or workforce housing.  Rubin, who has done similar work in his native South Africa, is now applying this model to US markets especially during the COVID-19 crisis. Richard and Repvblik are involved with projects around the US now, from LA to New York and many midwestern states.  Rubin said: “Commercial is going to be massively hit. When tech companies – always the early adopters, themselves historically large tenants and owners of commercial office – are telling their respective employees not to come back to work and to continue to work from home; the writing is on the wall.” Repvblik is an independent property developer and a pioneer in non-federal funded, non-LITC (Low Income Tax Credit) commercial marketplace solutions to achieve quality workforce housing, affordable student housing, and 55-plus senior housing in communities nationwide. Meanwhile, HULA, on Burlington’s waterfront, is a sumptuous work and community space offering state-of-the-art technology. And like other co-working spaces that have sprouted across the nation, it is sited adjacent to restaurants and bars to meet the leisure demands of its clients. HULA took the former Blodgett Oven manufacturing plant and turned it into a new-age space. Blodgett itself moved into a modern facility in Essex Junction. It may take time for this new paradigm to sort itself out, but there is little question the office environment of “Working Girl” and “Office Space” is as dated as the movies themselves. This is a boom time for construction in Vermont That brings us to CityPlace Burlington. Conceived as a 14-story, multiuse complex, the development never got off the ground due to financing issues. The project might have been doomed in any case by legal issues. Early on, the proposal to transform the downtown area and reconnect St Paul and Pine streets faced a blur of opposition and lawsuits. But it appears there is finally some progress involving the gaping hole in downtown Burlington. The central portion of what previously was Burlington Town Center was demolished in 2018, leaving only the front portion of the old mall and the former Macy’s department store standing. As first reported by Seven Days on September 16, a legal notice in the weekly newspaper indicated that a $26.32 million affordable housing project using some federal grant funds has been presented to the city. According to the Seven Days story, CEDO Director Brian Pine said this is a “positive” action that “bodes well for the whole project.” He told the newspaper that because it alters the previously approved plan, the developers will have to modify their permit. The legal notice reads: On or about September 30, 2022 the City of Burlington will submit a request to HUD for the release of HOME Investment Partnership Program funds under Title II of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act, as amended to undertake a project known as Burlington City Place Affordable Housing. The project is located at 130 Bank Street, Burlington, Vermont and includes new construction of an 8-story affordable housing building. The project is in the location of the former Burlington Mall building, which was demolished in 2018. The scope of work includes the following. Prior to the construction of the affordable housing project, a master podium structure will be constructed over most of the 2.53 acre parcel, which will support multiple mixed-use buildings, including the proposed 8-story 80-88 unit affordable housing building, and will accommodate parking under the buildings. The master project also proposes reconnection of both Pine and St. Paul Street between Bank and Cherry Streets. This environmental review includes the entire land area of the parcel, the parking and podium structures, reconnection of the two streets, and the affordable housing building itself. Mitigation measures include adherence to a Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation approved Corrective Action Plan, which requires the installation of a sub-slab depressurization system (SSDS) to mitigate impacts from off-site vapor migration, monitoring of the SSDS, and additional soil testing, if required, for the purposes of assessing potential urban soils if any are encountered, and management of such soils. The SSDS will double as a radon mitigation system. Mitigation measures also include that the project shall acquire all necessary permits before the project can be completed. The estimated total cost of the project is approximately $26,320,000 including $275,000 in HOME funds from the City of Burlington. The project also anticipates pursuing Section 8 Project-Based Vouchers. Other Federal funding sources include various funds provided by and through the State of Vermont. A separate combined notice will be completed for such funds by the State of Vermont. FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT The City of Burlington has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environmental determinations for this project online https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/environmental-review/environmental-review-records/?filter_status=PT%2CPN&filter_state=VT&filter_city=BURLINGTON&program=ERR&group=. Photo: Burlington High School at the old Macy’s. VermontBiz photo. Majority ownership for the entire project has changed hands a few times over the years, and now two related groups are vying to rebuild the old mall and parking garage into a modern complex, in three phases. The timeline for this work is still uncertain, but CityPlace developer Don Sinex told VermontBiz in mid-March that construction could begin as early as this fall, with completion expected 24 to 30 months after that. While his partners have been mostly quiet since they took control of the central section last May, Sinex now anticipates he will demolish all remaining structures in Phase 2 (including the former LL Bean and old mall as well as the Church Street facade) before eventually razing the Phase 3 Macy’s after July 2025, when the Burlington High School lease expires. Sinex said Phase 2 would include a 175- to 200-room hotel with one retail store on the new St Paul Street; two new retail spaces facing Church Street, with about 15 apartments above; and an arcade running from Church to St Paul. He estimated the cost at $60 million. Permitting has not been fully resolved as of late August, and financing is still uncertain. It is also possible that a handful of legal issues will have to be resolved up before moving ahead. The partners who control Phase 1 — Dave Farrington (Farringt...

Fantasy Football Week 3 Start ‘Em & Sit ‘Em Quarterbacks: Matthew Stafford Has Inviting Matchup With Cardinals – CBS Sports https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/fantasy-football-week-3-start-em-sit-em-quarterbacks-matthew-stafford-has-inviting-matchup-with-cardinals-cbs-sports/ Helping you make the right lineup calls at quarterback for Week 3 Sep 21, 2022 at 11:08 am ET • 1 min read USATSI Starting Week 3 with the Thursday night game featuring the Steelers and Browns, we don’t have a star-power quarterback showcase until Josh Allen and high-powered Bills face the Dolphins and six-touchdown Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins in the 1 p.m. window Sunday on CBS. Any more performances like last Sunday in Baltimore could make Tagovailoa a fixture in lineups regardless of matchups the way Allen is.  For now, going against a challenging defense, Tua is no automatic start yet as you’ll see below.  It is our objective to help you find quarterbacks you’ll want to move in and out of your lineups based on matchups every week. Playing matchups is key, and we’re here to find you the perfect path to a winning 2022.  More Week 3: Waiver Wire | QB Preview | RB Preview | WR Preview | Trade Values START ‘EM & SIT ‘EM Quarterbacks Projections powered by Sportsline Projections powered by Sportsline Projections powered by Sportsline Projections powered by Sportsline

CBI: The « AlphaVerse » Metaverse Has Opened On September 20th, 2022 – GlobeNewswire https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/cbi-the-alphaverse-metaverse-has-opened-on-september-20th-2022-globenewswire/ The « AlphaVerse » metaverse has opened on September 20th, 2022 First access to the central part (« Hub ») of AlphaVerse for first player from the community CRYPTO BLOCKCHAIN INDUSTRIES (« CBI », Euronext Growth Paris: FR00140062P9 – ALCBI) announces that the AlphaVerse Hub opened on September 20, 2022, for about one hundred initial users from the community. During this test phase lasting about 7 days, users get to know the whole hub and the first arenas dedicated to video games, music and digital arts. They can become familiar with the main features of AlphaVerse: creating accounts and avatars, downloading and streaming videos, creating community houses, using community tools (chat, forum), etc. This first test phase will allow to collect feedback from users and to integrate improvements and adapt the development of AlphaVerse. Several successive test phases will take place this fall 2022. Sales of NFTs in the AlphaVerse will also start during this period. For more information: www.alphaverse.com About CBI CRYPTO BLOCKCHAIN INDUSTRIES (“CBI”) is a French company that develops, operates and invests in video games, business applications and selected projects relating to the blockchain, non-fungible tokens (“NFTs”) and cryptocurrencies. Founded by Frédéric Chesnais, a renowned gaming industry entrepreneur and blockchain pioneer, CBI aims to develop and unlock value from a portfolio of blockchain activities across multiple industries (video games, finance, logistics, etc.) with a view to capitalizing on this technology, either directly or through partnerships. CBI has already made several investments and is currently launching AlphaVerse, a blockchain technology-based virtual world, or metaverse. CBI shares are listed on the E2 compartment (Public offer) of the Euronext Growth Paris stock exchange. Learn more at www.cbicorp.io. Contact CBI Frédéric CHESNAIS PDG fredchesnais@cbicorp.io www.cbicorp.io Listing Sponsor Atout Capital Rodolphe OSSOLA rodolphe.ossola@atoutcapital.com Financial communication Calyptus Maisie Mouret +33 1 53 65 68 68 cbi@calyptus.net CBI_CP_OuvertureAlphaVerse-effective_20220921_EN_DEF

Logitech’s Litra Beam Is A Flexible And Adjustable Key Light For Creators – Pocket-Lint https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/logitechs-litra-beam-is-a-flexible-and-adjustable-key-light-for-creators-pocket-lint/ (Pocket-lint) – Logitech for Creators has revealed the latest addition in its line-up of products designed specifically for content creators, streamers and podcasters. The Logitech Litra Beam is designed to help creators do more interesting things with lighting with a three-way adjustable desktop lighting solution.  Best lighting for content creators: Top streaming equipment for YouTube, Twitch and more How to start streaming your gaming: All the gear you need This key light is intended to help you shape your content in different ways, with the ability to adjust the height, tilt and rotation of the light to suit your needs. Logitech says you’ll be able to create new moods and tones for your content with this highly adjustable lighting tool. Use multiple Litra Beams and you can also take advantage of different pro-level lighting techniques including front, split, butterfly and Rembrandt illumination styles. Logitech Litra Beam is essentially designed to be more than just a key lighting offering. It’s also intended to let you change the mood and expression of your content, no matter what you’re doing.  Along with positional adjustment, Litra Beam also has on-the-fly settings you can change with quick access to five brightness and colour temperature settings via hardware buttons on the light. The colour temperature can be tweaked from 2700K-6500K and you can tweak even more from Logitech’s G Hub software too.  Like the Logitech Litra Glow, Litra Beam also has TrueSoft technology. So you’ve got diffused lighting that not only eliminates harsh shadows but is also easier on your eyes if you’re streaming for hours. Logitech says it’s safe to use that way and has been certified to eye-friendly for all-day streaming.  Litra Beam comes with its own highly-adjustable stand and can be connected to your PC via either USB or Bluetooth. Meaning you can free up ports if you need to. Plenty of cool features to look forward to.  Litra Beam is available to buy now for £99, US$99.99 or €119.  Writing by Adrian Willings.