CoinDesks Markets Daily: Ethereum PoW Is Not An Ethereum Competitor CoinDesk
CoinDesk’s Markets Daily: Ethereum PoW Is Not An Ethereum Competitor – CoinDesk https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/coindesks-markets-daily-ethereum-pow-is-not-an-ethereum-competitor-coindesk/
Please note that our
privacy policy,
terms of use,
cookies,
and
do not sell my personal information
has been updated
.
The leader in news and information on cryptocurrency, digital assets and the future of money, CoinDesk is a media outlet that strives for the highest journalistic standards and abides by a
strict set of editorial policies.
CoinDesk is an independent operating subsidiary of
Digital Currency Group,
which invests in
cryptocurrencies
and blockchain
startups.
As part of their compensation, certain CoinDesk employees, including editorial employees, may receive exposure to DCG equity in the form of
stock appreciation rights,
which vest over a multi-year period. CoinDesk journalists are not allowed to purchase stock outright in DCG
.
Dow Rises 100 Points As Wall Street Braces For Fed Rate Hike Decision CNBC
Dow Rises 100 Points As Wall Street Braces For Fed Rate Hike Decision – CNBC https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/dow-rises-100-points-as-wall-street-braces-for-fed-rate-hike-decision-cnbc/
Expect a ‘short-lived’ relief rally coming off of Fed decision, Wolfe Research’s Senyek says
Prepare for a brief market rally after the Federal Reserve doles out its rate hike decision on Wednesday, Wolfe Research’s Chris Senyek says.
“Our sense is that markets could be set up for a short-lived relief rally if the Fed hikes by +75bps and Powell doesn’t ratchet up his hawkish rhetoric even further,” he wrote in a note to clients. “That said, we don’t anticipate having to change our intermediate-term bearish call.”
Going forward, Senyek expects core inflation to remain sticky. That will likely force the Fed to raise the fed funds rate to 5% or greater if it hopes to achieve its long-term goal of 2%.
Vital Knowledge’s Adam Crisafulli agreed with Senyek’s sentiment.
“The consensus view is that stocks will squeeze after the Fed this afternoon before surrendering the whole move and then some Thurs, Fri, and beyond,” he said in a note to clients Wednesday.
— Samantha Subin
Yield on 2-year Treasury note tops 4% for first time since October 2007
The yield on the 2-year Treasury note hit above 4% for the first time since 2007 on Wednesday as traders questioned whether the Federal Reserve will need to hike even further to tame surging inflation.
The 2-year Treasury yield rose 4 basis points to 4.006%. It last touched that level in October 2007. The yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury was last trading at 3.561%, down by roughly 1 basis points, after notching an 11-year high this week.
According to some investors, the inversion — which continues to put short-term rates above long-term rates — indicates rising risks of a recession ahead.
— Fred Imbert, Samantha Subin
Only two stocks hit new 52-week highs on Wednesday
General Mills and Northrop Grumman were the only two stocks in the S&P 500 to hit new 52-week highs during Wednesday morning trading.
General Mills is trading at all-time highs dating back to 1927, and Northrop Grumman is at its highest point since the 1994 merger between Northrop Aircraft and Grumman Aerospace.
Meanwhile, eight stocks in the broader market index hit new 52-week lows, including Match Group, which is trading at an all-time low since its 2015 IPO.
Here are the new S&P 500 52-week lows:
Charter Communications trading at lows not seen since March 2020
Meta Platforms trading at lows not seen since March 2020
Match Group trading at all-time lows back to its IPO in November 2015
Verizon trading at lows not seen since August 2015
Cooper Companies trading at lows not seen since July 2020
Southwest trading at lows not seen since August 2020
Catalent trading at lows not seen since October 2020
Micron trading at lows not seen since November 2020
— Christopher Hayes, Sarah Min
Oil futures soften
Oil futures have given up their overnight gains that followed Russian president Vladimir Putin’s announcement of a partial military mobilization for the war in Ukraine.
Futures for U.S. benchmark West Texas intermediate were down 0.2% to $83.77 per barrel. European benchmark Brent crude futures were trading flat at $90.67 per barrel.
While the ongoing war and sanctions on Russia have pressured energy supply, particularly in Europe, oil prices have trended downward in recent months in part because concerns about a global recession have damped the outlook for demand.
— Jesse Pound
Defensive sectors lead Wednesday’s gains
Sectors in the S&P 500 with a defensive tilt led most of the gains in the benchmark index on Wednesday.
All 11 sectors — with the exception of communication services — were positive. Utilities and consumer staples were the best-performing areas, rising more than 1% each. Real estate and industrials also added 1%.
— Samantha Subin
Existing home sales decline in August
Existing home sales declined in August at the slowest monthly pace since June 2020, the National Association of Realtors said Wednesday.
Sales of previously owned homes fell 0.4% in August from last month to seasonally adjusted annualized rate of 4.80 million units and were 19.9% lower year over year.
— Diana Olick, Samantha Subin
Stocks open higher ahead of Fed decision
Stocks opened higher on Wednesday as investors looked ahead to the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 171 points, or 0.56%. The S&P 500 climbed 0.57%, and the Nasdaq Composite added 0.34%.
— Samantha Subin
The Fed has a big agenda in addition to expected rate increase
In addition to its expected interest rate hike, the Federal Reserve has multiple other items on the docket for its two-day meeting that concludes Wednesday.
The central bank is expected to raise benchmark interest rates by 0.75 percentage point.
But along with that, it also will provide updates on its economic and rates forecasts over the next three years. Pivotal in that outlook will be the “terminal” rate, or point when the Fed thinks it will need to stop hiking to battle runaway inflation.
Chairman Jerome Powell also will hold his traditional post-meeting news conference, where he is expected to emphasize the Fed’s commitment to battling inflation even if it means harm to the broader economy.
“Fighting inflation is job-one,” said Eric Winograd, senior economist at AllianceBernstein. “The consequences of not fighting inflation are greater than the consequences of fighting it. If that means recession, then that’s what it means.”
—Jeff Cox
Brace for disappointment coming out of the Fed meeting, Comerica’s Lynch says
Investors should prepare for more upset following the Federal Reserve’s latest rate-hike meeting as inflation numbers show persistent pressures beyond just food and energy, said Comerica Wealth Management’s John Lynch.
“Investors will be looking for clarity on the extent of the Fed’s tightening campaign and we suspect they’ll be disappointed,” he said, adding that the inflation moves further complicate the Fed’s decision making.
Given this backdrop, Lynch expects equities to retest June lows and believes third-quarter earnings — and revisions to companies’ guidance — will muddle investor sentiment.
“Fortunately, history shows improved market performance following midterm elections, so we encourage investors to maintain targeted allocations,” he said.
— Samantha Subin
Financials, tech earnings should rebound in 2023, says Credit Suisse’s Golub
Energy earnings have widely outperformed the broader S&P 500 this year, but Credit Suisse’s Jonathan Golub expects the tables to turn come 2023.
“While Energy EPS is forecasted to grow 100%+ in 2022, Financials and TECH+ earnings are projected to experience an outright contraction,” he wrote in a note to clients Wednesday. “However, these distortions are expected to reverse in 2023, with Energy EPS predicted to contract -12% while, Financials and TECH+ earnings are projected to grow double-digits.”
Earnings growth for the S&P 500 is expected to grow by just 6.1% during the first half of 2023, but expand by 9.1% through the second half.
— Samantha Subin
Wheat and corn ETFs gain pre-market as Russia calls up 300,000 reservists
The Teucrium Wheat Fund and Teucrium Corn Fund rose pre-market Wednesday after Russia called up 300,000 reservists to add to forces fighting against Ukraine.
The wheat ETF is higher by about 0.8% while the corn ETF is adding about 0.4%.
December wheat contracts reached a high of $9.195 per bushel earlier, the highest since July 11, while December corn hit $6.985 (only a nine-day high).
— Scott Schnipper, Gina Francolla
Stocks making the biggest moves premarket: Beyond Meat, Stitch Fix, Aurora Cannabis and more
These are some of the stocks making big moves in the premarket:
Stitch Fix — Stitch Fix’s stock slid 5.9% in premarket trading after reporting a wider-than-expected quarterly loss and issuing a weak forecast. The online clothing styling company expects sales to fall over the short term as the number of active customers declines.
Beyond Meat – Beyond Meat suspended Chief Operating Officer Doug Ramsey after he was involved in a physical altercation over the weekend which resulted in third-degree battery and terroristic threatening charges. Beyond Meat fell 1.1% in premarket trading on top of a 6% slide Tuesday.
Aurora Cannabis – Aurora Cannabis lost 2.1% in the premarket after reporting a breakeven quarter, on an adjusted basis, surprising analysts who predicted a quarterly loss. The Canada-based cannabis producer saw overall revenue come in slightly below expectations.
Read the full list of stocks moving in premarket action here.
— Peter Schacknow, Samantha Subin
Dollar index touches fresh high
The dollar index, which has been on a tear in recent weeks, notched a fresh high of 110.869 on Wednesday.
That marked the index’s highest level since June 2002, when it hit a high of 110.87.
Meanwhile, the euro hit a low of 0.9883 against the dollar and its lowest level since Sep. 7. The pound touched a fresh low against the dollar dating back to March 18, 1985.
The dollar also hit its highest level against the Swedish krona since July 2001.
— Samantha Subin, Gina Francolla
General Mills rises amid earnings beat, guidance boost
Shares of General Mills rose 2.5% in premarket trading after the consumer food maker topped earnings estimates and upped its outlook for the full year.
The company posted adjusted earnings of $1.11 per share on revenue of $4.72 billion. Analysts surveyed by Refinitiv had anticipated earnings of $1 a share on $4.72 billion in revenue.
General Mills’ stock is trading up 12% this year and sits about 4% off its highs.
— Samantha Subin
Defense stocks jump as Putin declares partial military mobilization
Defense stock moved about 2% higher on Wednesday amid news that Russian President Vladimir Putin has ord...
Technology Ethics Media Practices Symposium Features Two Free Public Keynotes Pennsylvania State University
Technology Ethics, Media Practices Symposium Features Two Free Public Keynotes – Pennsylvania State University https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/technology-ethics-media-practices-symposium-features-two-free-public-keynotes-pennsylvania-state-university/
Bellisario College of Communications
Two-day event held Oct. 6-7 will also include seven scholars’ presentations
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Free public keynotes by two internationally respected experts highlight a two-day symposium that focuses on media and technology ethics in early October at Penn State.
“Media Challenges to Digital Flourishing,” scheduled Oct. 6-7 on the University Park campus, features keynote addresses by David Gunkel of Northern Illinois University on Oct. 6, and Maria Silvia Vaccarezza of the University of Genoa on Oct. 7.
The two-day symposium also includes seven separate presentations by scholars focused on topics such as big data, emotion regulation, local digital news, media ethics theory and more.
“This event is an exciting way to bring some of the top thinkers in digital media ethics together to focus on issues that affect all of us,” said Patrick Lee Plaisance, the Don Davis Professor in Ethics in the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, who coordinated and planned the symposium. “By hosting a symposium of this scope, Penn State is also helping to move digital ethics scholarship forward.”
Gunkel will present “The Relational Turn: An Ethics for the 21st Century and Beyond” at 9 a.m. Oct. 6 in the Flex Theater, located in the HUB-Robeson Center.
Gunkel, a professor in the Department of Communication at Northern Illinois, is an award-winning educator, researcher and author specializing in the philosophy of technology with a focus on the moral and legal status of artificial intelligence and robots. He is the author of more than 90 scholarly articles and has published 13 books. He has lectured and delivered award-winning papers throughout North and South America and Europe and is the founding co-editor of the Indiana University Press book series digital game studies.
“Digital media and technology provide unprecedented opportunities in virtually every area of human endeavor,” Gunkel said. “But they also introduce new and unanticipated challenges–algorithmic bias, deepfakes, autonomous decision-making, etc. The task that confronts us and our students at this point in time is to respond to these challenges with innovative solutions that can ensure the kind of future we want for ourselves and our children.”
Vaccarezza will present “Civility in the Post-Truth Age: An Aristotelian Account” at 9 a.m. Oct. 7 in the Flex Theater.
She is an associate professor at the University of Genoa and author of several monographs, journal articles and book chapters on several topics, including Iris Murdoch; Aristotle’s ethics; the role of phronesis; the unity of the virtues; moral exemplarity and admiration for exemplars; virtue, duty, and supererogation; media ethics; philosophy of emotions; philosophy of education. She has recently edited two books about ethics.
“Today, more than ever, ethicists and media professionals have a duty to help citizens navigate the digital oceans of a post-truth age by fostering virtuous attitudes toward fellow members of their communities,” Vaccarezza said. “This workshop will be a unique opportunity to play a part in such a momentous challenge.”
A full schedule for the symposium may be found online. All events are free and open to the public.
The symposium is hosted by the Don W. Davis Program in Ethical Leadership and co-sponsored by the Bellisario College, the Arthur W. Page Center for Integrity in Public Communication, and the Rock Ethics Institute, all located at Penn State’s University Park campus.
Nintendo Switch: 5 Must-Buy Indie Games The EShop Blockbuster Sale CBR Comic Book Resources
Nintendo Switch: 5 Must-Buy Indie Games The EShop Blockbuster Sale – CBR – Comic Book Resources https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/nintendo-switch-5-must-buy-indie-games-the-eshop-blockbuster-sale-cbr-comic-book-resources/
Gamers everywhere are in luck, as Nintendo‘s eShop has a huge sale going on. Hundreds of titles for the Nintendo Switch are currently on sale, offering major discounts on hit bundles from major gaming studios and even dozens of AAA titles. Now is the perfect time for players to finally pick up that game they’ve been eyeing or try something completely new.
With all the excitement from these blockbuster deals, the indie games that are also a part of the sale might just get lost in the madness. Indie titles can offer players a wholly different experience from their AAA contemporaries, often paving the way for innovation. For those interested in exploring some indie gems at a discount, here are a few stand-out titles from Nintendo’s eShop sale that are worth checking out on the Switch.
From Texas-based studio Devolver Digital, Death’s Door is a fun game that has been likened to classic The Legend of Zelda titles as well as Dark Souls. Players control a world-hopping crow who, while collecting souls for a bureaucratic afterlife office job, slowly unravels a dark conspiracy. The game has been lauded for its balance of simplicity and difficulty, making the game easy to approach but not so easy to beat, especially with its challenging boss fights.
The in-game world is dark and bleak, full of secrets and fascinatingly odd characters, making this perfect for anyone who likes an engaging game with a bit of a darker tone. Its combat allows players to switch between using melee weapons, ranged weapons, and magic to defeat enemies, with character customization also being available. Death’s Door is somber yet comedic, combining exploration, puzzles, and combat to create one of 2021’s best indie games.
Neon White is the first game from developer Angel Matrix, and it’s quite the debut. A first-person game that’s perfect for fans of Mirror’s Edge, the game combines elements of first-person shooters with puzzle platformers to create a unique and engaging indie game. Focusing on timed challenges, Neon White follows a demon hunter named Neon who is meant to clear the demons out of a given level as fast as possible.
The game uses Soul Cards, a type of playing card that the player collects as they make their way through various levels, allowing them to either use the card as a weapon or activate its secondary ability by burning it. It has an interesting anime-inspired visual style and has been complimented on its level design, story, and challenge. Neon White is clearly a game meant for speedrunners, but anyone can enjoy this fast-paced, fun game.
This game should be no stranger to anyone familiar with indie games, as it received quite a few game-of-the-year nominations after its initial release in late 2019. Sayonara Wild Hearts is a rhythm-based game where the player travels through a surreal landscape, encountering enemies and avoiding obstacles.
Starring Queen Latifah as the narrator, this dreamy game acts as a love letter to both arcade games and the lo-fi genre, putting an interesting twist on the rhythm game genre. While many have noted that the game is more style than substance, with most people noting its soundtrack and visuals as being the best parts of the game, it’s great at what it does and really makes the player adore the world that it creates.
Dead Cells is an action-platformer roguelike that clearly takes a lot of inspiration from classic games like Metroid and Castlevania. Developed by Motion Twin, the game makes use of procedurally generated maps like many other roguelikes. However, much like Hades, it doesn’t seem repetitive as the character development, lore, and narrative elements between each run make for an engaging game.
Dead Cells features an addictive playstyle where the player can experiment with various weapons, which helps combat feel fresh from run to run. A beautiful pixelated art style makes the game feel like a classic already without being clunky or outdated. For those who can’t get enough, DLC for the game is also available in this sale.
Gris is a beautiful game developed by Barcelona-based Nomada Studio. Against a gorgeous watercolor backdrop, the story follows a young woman named Gris as she deals with a painful life experience. Serene and evocative, the game is filled with engaging puzzles, challenges, and platforming sequences. An interesting element of the game is that there are no fail states, as it instead focuses on emotions and telling a story that has a lot to do with mental health. However, this doesn’t at all take away from its gameplay.
With a stunning art style and soundtrack, Gris is minimalist yet very elaborate. While it’s a game in itself, Gris also acts as a piece of digital art. Overall, it’s a great exploration of how video games can allow people to tap into their emotions.
While these are only a few of the many indie games available in the sale, there are countless others available alongside the hundreds of AAA games also being offered. The sale runs until Sep. 26 through the Nintendo eShop.
Arkansas COVID-19 Cases Increase By 4286 Over Past 7 Days Fayetteville Flyer
Arkansas COVID-19 Cases Increase By 4286 Over Past 7 Days – Fayetteville Flyer https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/arkansas-covid-19-cases-increase-by-4286-over-past-7-days-fayetteville-flyer/
Arkansas COVID-19 cases increased by 4,286 over the last seven days, according to the Arkansas Department of Health website update on Tuesday. The increase is down from the 5,569 cases reported over the previous seven-day period.
This week’s count averages to about 612 new cases per day in the state, down from 795 the previous week.
There are 7,987 cases of COVID-19 considered active in the state, which includes those that have tested positive by both PCR and antigen testing methods. That number is down from the 9,652 active cases reported the previous Tuesday.
In Northwest Arkansas, the ADH dashboard currently lists 531 active cases in Washington County and 387 in Benton County.
Hospitalizations were up by 20 this week, bringing the total number of patients hospitalized in the state to 296.
State officials also announced 53 new deaths in the past week, bringing the total number of Arkansans who have died as a result of the pandemic to 12,017.
There are currently 20 patients on ventilators statewide, up two from the last week.
There were 15,333 PCR tests and 11,498 antigen tests announced Tuesday.
The new cases bring the total cumulative count in Arkansas to 947,211.
The top counties for new cases over the last seven days were Pulaski (551), Washington (270), and Benton (222).
Arkansas is averaging 20 cases per 100,000 residents over the last two weeks. According to the New York Times COVID-19 tracker, cases in the state are down by 27% over the last 14 days.
The state announced that 14,641 doses of the vaccine were given over the past seven days.
All Arkansans ages 6 months and older are currently eligible for a vaccine. A new updated bivalent vaccine that targets the original and omicron strains of the virus is also now available in Arkansas.
Those who need assistance locating a vaccine can call 1-800-985-6030.
Flyer Newsletter
The latest headlines from the Fayetteville Flyer, delivered straight to your inbox.
Leisure Travel Demand Fuels Hyatts Rooms Growth In The Latin America And Caribbean Region Joplin Globe
Leisure Travel Demand Fuels Hyatt’s Rooms Growth In The Latin America And Caribbean Region – Joplin Globe https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/leisure-travel-demand-fuels-hyatts-rooms-growth-in-the-latin-america-and-caribbean-region-joplin-globe/
CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Sep 21, 2022–
Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today strategic brand growth in the Latin America and Caribbean region with a strong development pipeline of more than 20 planned luxury and lifestyle hotels and resort openings through 2024, including the expansion of Hyatt brands into new markets.
This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220921005716/en/
Hyatt House Monterrey Valle/San Pedro and Hyatt Place Monterrey Valle Exterior (Photo: Business Wire)
“Latin America and the Caribbean are top leisure destinations for global travelers, and we continue to grow Hyatt’s brand presence in this important region to offer unique experiences to high-end travelers in new markets and sought-after destinations,” said Camilo Bolaños, senior vice president of development, Latin America & the Caribbean, Hyatt. “These exciting new hotels and resorts across Hyatt’s portfolio of upscale hotel brands reinforce our commitment to thoughtfully growing in key markets that matter to our guests, World of Hyatt loyalty members and customers.”
Development Momentum in a Key Growth Region
Driven by leisure travel demand, the newly opened and expected hotels and resorts mark significant growth milestones for Hyatt that include:
New planned openings in the region such as Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club (Mexico) and Hyatt Centric San Jose— Escazu (Costa Rica).
Planned introduction of the first Park Hyatt hotel in Mexico: Park Hyatt Los Cabosand Residences; and the first Andaz hotel in Mexico’s historic capital city: Andaz Mexico City Condesa.
Expanded brand presence in new markets throughout Mexico that include: Monterrey with Hyatt Place Monterrey Valle and Hyatt House Monterrey Valle/San Pedro, both expected to open this year, and Thompson Monterrey, slated to open in 2024; and San Miguel de Allende with NUMU, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.
As a result of the acquisition of Apple Leisure Group, Hyatt’s Latin America and Caribbean region expected growth includes a nearly 20% expansion of Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection expected by the end of 2024 with the debut of new luxury all-inclusive resorts such as Secrets Impression Moxché (Mexico), Secrets Impression Isla Mujeres (Mexico), Dreams Cozumel Cape Resort & Spa (Mexico), Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort (Mexico), Dreams Flora Resort & Spa and Secrets Tides Punta Cana (Dominican Republic), Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia and Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa.
Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection delivers elevated all-inclusive experiences with best-in-class resort brands including Hyatt Ziva, Hyatt Zilara, Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts, Secrets Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Vivid Hotels & Resorts (coming soon), Alua Hotels & Resorts and Sunscape Resorts & Spas.
“The Inclusive Collection’s expansion in Latin America and the Caribbean brings one of the world’s largest regional portfolios of luxury all-inclusive resorts to global travelers seeking seamless, world-class experiences,” said Javier Coll, Group President of Global Business Development and Innovation at Apple Leisure Group. “Whether celebrating life’s big moments, looking for quality family time or an extra measure of romance at a breathtaking destination, the Inclusive Collection’s new and existing properties offer unforgettable experiences for everyone and every stay occasion.”
Thoughtful Growth Brings Expanded Stay Opportunities & Experiences in More Markets
Grounded in desirable destinations known for their culture, architecture, cuisine and history, new Hyatt properties offer guests, World of Hyatt members and customers endless opportunities to experience Hyatt’s luxury, lifestyle and resort offerings. Executed managed and franchise deals in Latin America and the Caribbean are highlighted by new Hyatt properties slated to open across its brand portfolio, including:
Boundless Collection hotels that deliver best-in-class offerings and compelling experiences designed to excite and inspire, featuring:
Andaz Mexico City Condesa(Mexico): Located in Mexico City’s historic Condesa neighborhood, full of vibrant, cultural richness and architectural significance, this 213-room, luxury lifestyle hotel with state-of-the-art meeting and event facilities is expected to open Fall 2022, marking the first urban Andaz property in Mexico and the second Andaz hotel in Mexico.
Thompson Monterrey(Mexico): This 150-room lifestyle hotel, part of the new mixed-use complex Torre IKON, will be the first Thompson Hotel in Mexico’s state of Nuevo León and is expected to open in 2024.
Timeless Collection hotels that deliver impeccable service and thoughtful amenities. New properties in the region expected to open by the end of 2024 include:
Hyatt House Monterrey Valle/San Pedro and Hyatt Place Monterrey Valle ( Mexi co): This dual-branded development will be the first Hyatt hotels in Monterrey, Mexico, which are slated to open in Fall 2022, offering guests an ideal homebase for exploring Monterrey’s Valle Oriente, San Pedro Garza García and more with the added convenience of the new, seamless room key in Apple Wallet feature.
Hyatt Regency Mexico City Insurgentes(Mexico): Situated on the iconic Insurgentes Avenue, and steps away from the World Trade Center Mexico City, this 201-room hotel is slated to open in late 2022 as a hub for business and leisure travelers with several venues for meetings and events, conferences and celebrations.
Grand Hyatt Cancún Beach Resort(Mexico): Situated in the eastern part of the Yucatán Peninsula with expansive views overlooking the Caribbean Sea and nearby Isla Mujeres, this luxurious resort is slated to open in 2024.
Park Hyatt Los Cabos and Residences(Mexico): Expected to open in 2023, this luxury property will mark the first Park Hyatt hotel in Mexico and will feature a master-planned golf resort that stretches along two miles of pristine beach in Cabo del Sol – Los Cabos, Baja California Sur.
Park Hyatt Mexico City(Mexico): Expected to open in 2024 with 155 guestrooms, Park Hyatt Mexico City will be located on the upscale Campos Eliseos Street overlooking the iconic Chapultepec Park.
Inclusive Collection resorts deliver immersive, elevated experiences where everything is seamlessly included. The Inclusive Collection is expected to debut 10 new resorts in the region by the end of 2024, highlighted by:
Dreams Cozumel Cape Resort & Spa ( Mexico ): Ideally located on the island of Cozumel and set to open Fall 2022, this family resort will feature a charming setting, white-sand beaches, coral reefs and calm ocean waters – making it a haven for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Dreams Flora Resort & Spa(Dominican Republic): Located on a picturesque palm-studded beach in Cabeza de Toro, Punta Cana, and expected to open at the end of 2022, this property will feature 520 luxuriously appointed rooms, each with a private terrace or balcony offering ocean, garden and pool views.
Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort ( Mexico ): Slated to open in 2023 and located within Estrella del Mar, a private gated golf & residential community stretching over 900 acres, this stunning resort is situated on 3.5 miles of pure, secluded beachfront.
Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya(Mexico): Expected to open late 2022, Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya will be the latest addition to Hyatt’s award-winning, all-inclusive adult experience nestled in the secluded region of Riviera Maya with easy access to the Cancún International Airport and only six miles from Playa del Carmen. This sophisticated all-inclusive resort will offer 291-suites with modern hacienda charm, sitting alongside a long stretch of pure white sand beach.
Secrets Impression Moxché ( Mexico): Discover the most elevated level of all-inclusive luxury with the introduction of the Impression concept to the Secrets portfolio. Slated to open Fall 2022, this all-suite, boutique resort will deliver an elevated Endless Privileges experience with dedicated in-room butlers catering to every need.
Secrets Impression Isla Mujeres(Mexico): Artfully built into the natural landscape of Isla Mujeres, this ultra-luxurious and unique resort is reminiscent of romantic Mediterranean cities along the sea. Expected to open late 2022, this adults-only resort will boast exclusive experiences tailored to preference, butler service and curated gastronomy designed to exceed all expectations.
Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa(St. Lucia): Slated to open in 2023, this adults-only resort will offer guests a privileged location on the island where they can enjoy a stunning view of dramatically tapered mountains, volcanic beaches, reef-diving sites and fishing villages.
Secrets Tides Punta Cana(Dominican Republic): Expected to open Fall 2023, this adults-only resort will provide guests with an intimate hideaway surrounded by all-encompassing foliage, modern architecture and stunning views.
Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club ( Mexico ): Located in the heart of the idyllic town of Tulum within the luxurious Aldea Zama Complex, Secrets Tulum is slated to open summer 2023, fusing elegant and boho design with eco-chic elements, jungle themed surroundings uniquely designed by award-winning architect Michael Edmonds.
Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia ( St. Lucia ): Set to open late 2022, this boutique resort is exclusively located on the island’s most desirable marina, Marigot Bay, complete with swaying palm trees, anchored yachts and a nearby volcanic white sand beach, and will offer both tranquility and easy access to St. Lucia’s top attractions like the nearby Pitons.
Independent Collection hotels are all unique...
Melcom Care Foundation Supports 13 Veteran Journalists Ghana Business News
Melcom Care Foundation Supports 13 Veteran Journalists – Ghana Business News https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/melcom-care-foundation-supports-13-veteran-journalists-ghana-business-news/
The Melcom Care Foundation has lent support to the Centre For Communication and Culture to honour 13 veteran journalists who are on record to have spoken truth to power in an objective and fearless manner.
A statement issued by Melcom Care Foundation and copied to the Ghana News Agency said a cheque in support of Sponsorship for the Award Ceremony was presented to the Centre by Mrs Sonya Sadhwani, Melcom Group of Companies Director of Brand Management and received by Mr Enimil Ashon, Executive Director, Centre for Communication and Culture.
Speaking at the ceremony the Melcom Group Director of Communications Mr Godwin Avenorgbo stated that “The media has the men and women, who have the capacity to lead the National interest by becoming the reliable voice of the voiceless in an all-inclusive focus on what matters most in favour of the citizens.”
He said Melcom was happy to support the centre to honour veterans who had demonstrated the act of objective, bold, fair, fearless and professional Journalism when it mattered most.
Mr Ashon thanked the Melcom Care Foundation for the kind gesture.
He announced that the awardees would be honoured as part of the observance of this year’s Founder’s Day in memory of The Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President on the theme “Ghanaian Media: The Bold, Beautiful, Ugly and the Maverick.”
Source: GNA
People With Diabetes Have An Increased Risk Of Contacting Urinary Tract Infection Bel Marra Health
People With Diabetes Have An Increased Risk Of Contacting Urinary Tract Infection – Bel Marra Health https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/people-with-diabetes-have-an-increased-risk-of-contacting-urinary-tract-infection-bel-marra-health/
If you have diabetes, you may be at an increased risk of contracting urinary tract infections (UTIs). UTIs are caused by bacteria that travel up the urethra and into the bladder. If left untreated, a UTI can lead to more serious health problems. Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce your risk of developing a UTI.
Diabetes occurs in the body due to the lack of insulin or decreased insulin action. Insulin is a type of hormone that regulates glucose, which provides energy to the cells. In type 1 diabetes, the body stops producing insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the cells become less sensitive to insulin, which may result in high blood glucose levels.
The study published in Nature Communications investigated whether glucose levels in people with diabetes are linked with psoriasin, an antibiotic that is part of the innate immune system.
Researchers used urine, urinary bladder cells, and blood serum samples from patients and analyzed levels of psoriasin and other peptides that are used in the bladder to ensure the mucosa remains intact and protects against infection. These findings were also verified in a mouse study with urinary bladder cells with and without infection.
It was found that high glucose concentrations could reduce the antimicrobial peptide psoriasin, while insulin has no effect. Since patients with diabetes have lower levels of psoriasin, they may have a weakened cell protective barrier function, increasing the risk of bladder infection. This outcome was found in patients with type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers believe this new information may help diabetics support their general health by understanding the connections between the condition and other health issues that may arise.
Managing Blood Sugar and Bladder Control
Healthy Blood Sugar Support can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels using a number of ingredients that have been shown in clinical studies. The health benefits of this unique formula include supporting blood sugar metabolism and promoting healthy cholesterol and glucose levels already within the normal range. Healthy Blood Sugar Support can also help to reduce excessive hunger or increased appetite, fatigue, and blood glucose spikes after meals.
Bladder control issues can severely impact your happiness and well-being. They can also become more common as you age, so taking the steps needed to support the bladder is essential.
Bladder Rescue uses a unique combination of seven ingredients that can help to support healthy bladder function and control. Included in this remarkable formula is pumpkin seed extra and cranberry extract. Pumpkin seeds have been used for hundreds of years in traditional medicine for bladder health, and cranberry juice is often associated with urinary tract health. Overall, bladder rescue provides the support for bladder health and control that you deserve.
Fantasy Baseball Today: Aaron Judge Hits No. 60 In Bronx Epic; Shane McClanahan Leaves Game With Injury CBS Sports
Fantasy Baseball Today: Aaron Judge Hits No. 60 In Bronx Epic; Shane McClanahan Leaves Game With Injury – CBS Sports https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/fantasy-baseball-today-aaron-judge-hits-no-60-in-bronx-epic-shane-mcclanahan-leaves-game-with-injury-cbs-sports/
Happy Wednesday, everyone! It was a night to remember in baseball and particularly for fans of the New York Yankees. What a dramatic night for the Bronx Bombers, and there’s really no better place to start today. The Yankees entered the ninth inning of Tuesday’s game against the Pirates down 8-4! Aaron Judge led the inning off and blasted his 60th home run of the season. Then, the Yankees loaded the bases and Giancarlo Stanton delivered a walk-off grand slam.
I can’t wait to see where Judge comes off the board in Fantasy Baseball drafts next season. I draft in a lot of leagues with New Yorkers, and my guess is that he’ll be a mid first-round pick. I can’t wait to see how the industry reacts. We discussed where Judge belongs in 2023 drafts on the Fantasy Baseball Today in 5 Podcast.
It’s important to note that Judge now leads the AL in batting average (.316) and has a legitimate chance to be the first player to win the Triple Crown for the Yankees since Mickey Mantle did it in 1956.
We’ll dive into more of the action from Tuesday below, but first, make sure you’re all caught up with everything going on over at CBSSports.com/Fantasy. Scott White broke down key bullpen situations that you’re going to want to be tuned into down the stretch run here.
Here’s how Scott broke down the Rays bullpen:
“It wouldn’t be the first time manager Kevin Cash has faked me out this year — or make that the past five — but I think his recent leanings toward Peter Fairbanks in the ninth inning are about as strong as he’s ever been. It’s easier to say with the right-hander having recorded four of the team’s past five saves, and I’d be remiss not to point out that other Rays relievers (yes, multiple) have enjoyed similar stretches this year. But none of them profile as the sort of shutdown reliever Fairbanks has been since returning from a strained lat, having finally gotten his electric stuff under control for a 1.29 ERA, 0.67 WHIP and 13.7 K/9.
“Fellow righty Jason Adam’s numbers come pretty close to those, and the fact Cash has two of them now makes it easier to confine one to the ninth inning. Each of Fairbanks’ past four appearances has been for a save, so the consistency of his role is beginning to stand out.”
And here’s Scott’s thoughts on the Twins bullpen situation:
“Manager Rocco Baldelli didn’t settle on a closer until the Twins acquired Jorge Lopez at the trade deadline. With the way that’s gone, he may never again. Lopez is basically out of the role now and deserves to be after allowing eight earned runs in seven appearances this month, including four on Monday alone. Rookie flamethrower Jhoan Duran has gotten each of the team’s past two saves and still boasts a 1.78 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 11.9 K/9 for the year. I had lost faith in him claiming the closer role even prior to the Lopez acquisition, and I still don’t trust Baldelli to adhere to anything. Nevertheless, Duran is looking like a legitimate saves source at the moment.”
By submitting my email I agree to receive the “Fantasy Baseball Today Newsletter” and other marketing and promotional emails from CBS Sports, which may include information from our affiliates and/or partners’ offers, products and services. For more information about our data practices consult our Privacy Policy
Please check the opt-in box to acknowledge that you would like to subscribe.
Thanks for signing up!
Keep an eye on your inbox.
Sorry!
There was an error processing your subscription.
Shane O Mac injured again
Terrible news out of Tuesday night with ace Shane McClanahan being forced to leave his outing with left neck tightness and spasms. It sure sounds like this was a compensation injury for McClanahan, but for what it’s worth, he downplayed the injury after the start. He feels like he won’t miss time — but we’ve heard player optimism go the other way plenty of times. This late in the season, it’s possible the Rays are even more cautious with their ace.
Shane O Mac lasted just four innings, allowed five hits, five earned runs, four walks and struck out three batters. His velocity was fine and he continued to lean on his fastball, a development that has been true since he returned from the IL.
Scoop up Civale?
Aaron Civale might be hanging around your waiver wire (41% rostered) and he could be worth adding to your roster. Civale had a nice return against the White Sox on Tuesday and went five innings allowing just four hits, one walk and two earned runs. His curveball velocity was up and he ditched both the splitter and slider in this one. He has a 3.46 ERA over his last five starts. He draws the Rangers this weekend and the Royals next week.
Who’s hot
The entire Blue Jays roster went off. They racked up 18 runs on 21 hits! Teoscar Hernandez has been scuffling big time but went 4 for 5 with two doubles and three runs scored. Matt Chapman collected two hits with his 27th homer, three runs, three RBI. Danny Jansen continues to stay hot with three hits, two doubles and two RBI. Jansen is just 28% rostered.
Fantasy news, injuries and notes
For a complete recap of every injury, update and more, make sure you’re locked into the Fantasy Baseball Today podcast where Frank, Scott and Chris dive deep into every player note. For the CliffsNotes version, we’ll recap the biggest news and notes you need to know right here:
Spencer Strider is dealing with a sore oblique and will be pushed back a few days. As a result, he might not make a start this week.
Julio Rodriguez was back in the Mariners lineup Tuesday after missing three straight with lower-back tightness.
Tim Anderson could return to the White Sox lineup sometime this week. He underwent left hand surgery in early August.
If all goes well in Friday’s rehab start, Tyler Glasnow could make his 2023 debut next week in Cleveland. That might be even more likely now with McClanahan hurt again.
So much for Drew Smyly as a sleeper pitcher. He’s experiencing shoulder fatigue and will not start Wednesday against the Marlins. Marcus Stroman will start in his place.
Kris Bryant is still receiving treatment and participating in activities but there remains “no timetable” in place for his return. He’s been out since July 31 with plantar fasciitis in his left foot.
Frankie Montas was placed on the IL with right shoulder inflammation.
Sonny Gray was placed on the IL with a right hamstring strain.
DJ LeMahieu took on-field batting practice Tuesday and could be activated during this week’s homestand.
Garrett Whitlock has been shut down from throwing and will require hip surgery next week. The expectation is that he’ll be ready for spring training. He’s 19% rostered.
MacKenzie Gore will make a rehab start at Triple-A Wednesday. He threw 57 pitches in his previous rehab outing.
The MRI results on Brendan Rodgers‘ hamstring were “good”, according to manager Bud Black.
Eric Lauer will start Friday against the Reds, his first day eligible to come off the IL.
Graham Ashcraft is set to return Saturday against the Brewers.
The Canadian Government plans to drop the COVID vaccine requirement by the end of September. All players will be able to play in Toronto throughout the playoffs.
Nvidia Wants Its First SaaS Product To Help Power The Metaverse TechRadar
Nvidia Wants Its First SaaS Product To Help Power The Metaverse – TechRadar https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/nvidia-wants-its-first-saas-product-to-help-power-the-metaverse-techradar/
Home
News
Software
(Image credit: Shutterstock / is.a.bella)
Nvidia has become the latest company to start prepaing for the metaverse with a newly-announced Omniverse Cloud.
Announced at the recent Nvidia GTC 2022 event (opens in new tab), the company’s first software-as-a-service (SaaS) offering is designed to support developers design, publish, operate, and experience metaverse apps.
Omniverse Cloud does away with the need for localised computing power while offering high-performance capabilities like 3D workflows, with more than 700 companies and 200,000 people already signed up.
Nvidia Omniverse Cloud
Nvidia used autonomous vehicle engineers as an example of the type of developers who will particularly benefit from its new SaaS, being able to generate physically based sensor data and simulate lifelike environments in order to test their safety systems.
Omniverse Nucleus Cloud is the key component that allows designers to access shared 3D data. From this, users can use Omniverse App Streaming and Omniverse View for creating and reviewing projects, and Omniverse Replicator to generate synthetic data.
Other tools include Omniverse Farm for teams looking to utilize multiple cloud compute instances; scalable robotics simulation app Nvidia Isaac Sim; and Nvidia Drive Sim for running multisensor simulations for the likes of autonomous vehicle development.
Already onboard is Croatian hypercar company Rimac, of which 10% is made up by Volkswagen subsidiary Porsche. CEO and founder Mate Rimac compares Nvidia’s metaverse offering to electric car motors which can “adjust in an instant”. He continues to explain in a press release on the company’s website (opens in new tab) that the 3D car configurator experience provided by Omniverse Cloud “unlocks endless possibilities for customization without having to manually render each layer, which saves time and money.”
Marketing services organization WPP is another early adopter of Omniverse Cloud. The company has already launched automotive marketing services with the SaaS to deliver custom, 3D content, which chief technology office Stephan Pretorius says is more sustainable thanks to the low-emission production process.
Omniverse Farm, Omniverse Replicator and Nvidia Isaac Sim are already available on for self-service deployment on AWS using Amazon EC2 G5 instances, with A10G Tensor Core GPUs. More broadly, Omniverse Cloud will be available as Nvidia managed services via an application-based early access program.
These are the best cloud hosting providers
With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the electrification of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!
Easter Eggs You Missed In Andor Season 1 – Looper https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/easter-eggs-you-missed-in-andor-season-1-looper/
×
Cookies help us deliver our Services. By using our Services, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn More.
Lucasfilm
Spoilers for “Andor” Season 1 ahead.
In the broad landscape of Disney’s “Star Wars” streaming shows, “Andor” is something of an anomaly. It’s part of the growing “Mandalorian” franchise, which includes spinoffs like “The Book of Boba Fett,” but it also isn’t terribly connected to the original films in the way that “Obi-Wan Kenobi” is. The only major returning character is the titular hero himself — Cassian Andor, played by Diego Luna. As such, the series has a unique opportunity to add to franchise lore, and it does just that by introducing new aspects of the Empire, new planets and systems, and a whole host of brand new characters.
Of course, this is still “Star Wars,” so it’s impossible to fully avoid referencing the past. While the series isn’t nearly as loaded with references and Easter eggs as some of its recent sister shows, “Andor” Season 1 still has plenty of fun hidden details for eagle-eyed viewers to watch out for. With scenes set during the Clone Wars and the Imperial era, the series covers a large period of history in the “Star Wars” universe. And, as you might expect, that leads to a number of wink-and-nod moments. Here are some Easter eggs and small details that you may have missed in “Andor” Season 1.
Since I was six years old
Disney+/YouTube
In the very first episode of “Andor,” viewers start seeing flashbacks to Cassian’s childhood on Kenari, his home planet. The clips show him donning combat gear and weapons to investigate a crashed ship with the other inhabitants of his village, a mission that ultimately proves life-changing — and not necessarily in the best way. It’s interesting to see such a young version of Cassian running around with a spear in hand, but if you’ve seen “Rogue One,” you may have been expecting it.
In the movie, Cassian tells Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones) about his long history as a freedom fighter. “I’ve been in this fight since I was six years old,” he says, emphasizing just how much of his life has been spent either on the run or in direct conflict with the establishment. While the ship he’s shown investigating isn’t Imperial (the Empire didn’t exist at the time), “Andor” does make good on Cassian’s claim of being a part of the good fight from a very young age.
Rebel ships
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment/Lucasfilm
Though the “Star Wars” franchise has featured a ton of different starships over the decades, some have been iconic enough to stand out anywhere — even in a random shipyard on, say, Ferrix. Near the end of “Andor” Season 1’s opening episode, Cassian is shown rummaging around in an old junker that he borrowed from one of the yard’s employees. He plays it cool, but he’s really scrubbing incriminating info from the ship’s records.
During a couple of pulled-out shots, viewers may recognize a few of the other ships occupying the yard. One is unmistakably a Y-Wing starfighter, a bomber variant commonly used by the Rebel Alliance and first seen on film during the run on the original Death Star. The faded yellow cockpit of the ship can be seen clearly, complete with the iconic rotating turret. Y-Wings were first used by the Republic during the Clone Wars, so it makes sense to see a stray one junking it up on a planet like Ferrix.
The scene also shows what looks like a variant of the T-47 airspeeder from “The Empire Strikes Back.” Originally manufactured as stunt fighters, T-47s were modified for various purposes by rebels throughout the Galactic Civil War. They became known as snowspeeders among the rebels. The ship seen opposite the Y-Wing in the “Andor” shipyard definitely isn’t a snowspeeder (it’s much longer in the back than a normal T-47), but the cockpit and wing design are quite evocative.
Classic Star Wars tech
Disney+/YouTube
One of the most distinct aspects of the “Star Wars” universe is its retro sci-fi tech aesthetic. When the first film was released in 1977, it made sense for the computer screens to use vector graphics and the binoculars to be full of static. As the franchise has continued and real-world technology has evolved, “Star Wars” has played with different variants on its original in-universe technology, like how the prequels employed more holographic screens instead of vectors.
“Andor” makes it clear from the get-go that its inspiration comes fully from the original, old-school tech of the first “Star Wars” films. From the numerous computer screens filled with hard lines to the digital readouts on Luthen Rael’s (Stellan Skarsgård) binoculars, the show fully embraces the retro-futuristic look and feel of Ralph McQuarrie’s original concept art. It’s similar in many ways to the aesthetic of “The Mandalorian,” but with an early Imperial era twist. If you keep your eyes peeled throughout “Andor” Season 1, you’ll catch a lot of little gadgets and gizmos that have appeared in previous “Star Wars” stories.
The Separatist sigil
Disney+/YouTube
In Cassian’s flashbacks to the ship crash on his home world of Kenari, we see how he came to be raised by Maarva Andor (Fiona Shaw) and taken far away into the galaxy. It all centers around the shipwreck itself, which Cassian investigates with a crew from his village. Things go sour when some of the passengers turn out to be both alive and hostile, leading to a violent confrontation. Who are these interlopers, and where were they headed? It’s not entirely clear, but the familiar logo on their uniforms gives some indication.
On the sleeves of their spacesuits, you can clearly make out the segmented blue and white hexagon that was the symbol of the Separatist Alliance during the Clone Wars. There are no battle droids to be seen aboard the ship — the signature soldier of the Confederacy — but diehard fans will know that plenty of non-robotic beings gave their lives to the Separatist cause as well. This also might explain why the wounded crewman immediately gets violent after waking up. The ship may have been coming directly from a warzone, though of course, that’s no justification for his actions.
A hidden Rebel Alliance logo?
Disney+/YouTube
The Separatist sigil isn’t the only familiar “Star Wars” logo to make a sneaky appearance in the early episodes of “Andor” Season 1. Early on in Episode 2, a shopkeeper makes a bold (and ultimately fatal) choice — calling the cops on Cassian because he’s jealous of his relationship with his partner, the mechanic Bix Caleen (Adria Arjona). To keep things anonymous, he goes to what appears to be a public transmission station of some kind. The marquee over the establishment has a red crescent logo that looks strikingly like the symbol of the Rebel Alliance.
There’s almost certainly no actual connection, but the sign could be meant as a subtle allusion to the fate that soon comes for Cassian Andor. The call placed from the transmission center is the indirect cause of him following Luthen into the rebel cause, and the similarities between the two logos seem too obvious for this to be a pure coincidence.
Clone Wars surplus
Disney+/YouTube
When the corporate security agents come to Ferrix to hunt Cassian in “Andor” Episode 2, they come prepared. Not only do they gear up with some major firepower, but they drop down to the planet’s surface in ships that are strikingly reminiscent of the Republic gunships used in the Clone Wars. The iconic design was first seen in “Attack of the Clones,” and it has remained a staple of “Star Wars” ever since. While there are certainly differences between the old gunships and the landing craft seen in “Andor,” their striking similarities are interesting to say the least.
In the wake of the Clone Wars, the Empire phases out a lot of the gear used by the clone army. Old starfighters become TIE Fighters, AT-TEs become AT-ATs, and the old clone gunships are nowhere to be found. It would make sense for a private military company like the one seen in “Andor” to purchase some of this surplus tech for its own purposes, perhaps even making some modifications along the way. That could explain the ship design in Episode 2 — or maybe the same manufacturer simply built some new models after the war.
The Empire’s terrible security
Disney+/YouTube
During their first meeting in “Andor” Episode 3, Luthen Rael asks how Cassian managed to steal the “untraceable” Imperial tech he’s bartering off. “You just walk in like you belong,” he says. “To steal from the Empire, what do you need? A uniform, some dirty hands, and an Imperial toolkit.” This line could be taken as a nod to the many, many times rebels have successfully infiltrated Imperial strongholds using basic disguises throughout the franchise — a long and storied trope worthy of the reference.
Whether it’s Han and Luke disguising themselves as Stormtroopers on the Death Star or Obi-Wan Kenobi being snuck into the Imperial Inquisitor’s citadel by a double-agent, many characters have walked right past the Empire’s defenses with little more than courage and a cool hat. Cassian himself uses this exact tactic at the end of “Rogue One,” when he and Jyn Erso break into the Imperial base on Scarif to steal the Death Star plans. As such, his line about “borrowing” uniforms can also be taken as a grim foreshadowing of his own eventual demise.
Cassian Andor’s narrow escapes
Disney+/YouTube
At the end of “Andor” Episode 3, we’re treated to a beautifully shot sequence that parallels Cassian’s departure from Kenari as a young boy with his escape from Ferrix with Luthen Rael. It’s a powerful and haunting moment, showing the character’s talent for making it out by the skin of his teeth. The scene is tragic — not only because it emphasizes how Cassian must repeatedly leave things behind, but because it foreshadows the one time he finally doesn’t ma...
Crypto Analytics Firm Messari Raises $35M In Series B Led By Brevan Howard Digital CoinDesk
Crypto Analytics Firm Messari Raises $35M In Series B Led By Brevan Howard Digital – CoinDesk https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/crypto-analytics-firm-messari-raises-35m-in-series-b-led-by-brevan-howard-digital-coindesk/
Oliver Knight is a CoinDesk reporter based between London and Lisbon. He does not own any crypto.
Cryptocurrency data and analytics firm Messari has closed a $35 million Series B funding round led by Brevan Howard Digital, according to a press release.
The round, which was initially announced in August, includes investment from Morgan Creek Digital, Samsung Next, FTX Ventures, Galaxy and Coinbase Ventures.
Messari, which is hosting its annual Mainnet conference in New York City this week, will use the capital to expand its team and develop two new products – Protocol Metrics and Data Apps.
“This new funding will help us grow our team, expand internationally, and invest in new data offerings and tools that complete our market-leading product suite,” said Messari co-founder and CEO Ryan Selkis.
The round reportedly puts Messari, which also raised $21 million in August of last year, at a $300 million valuation.
Sign up for Market Wrap, our daily newsletter explaining what happened today in crypto markets – and why.
By signing up, you will receive emails about CoinDesk product updates, events and marketing and you agree to our terms of services and privacy policy.
DISCLOSURE
Please note that our
privacy policy,
terms of use,
cookies,
and
do not sell my personal information
has been updated
.
The leader in news and information on cryptocurrency, digital assets and the future of money, CoinDesk is a media outlet that strives for the highest journalistic standards and abides by a
strict set of editorial policies.
CoinDesk is an independent operating subsidiary of
Digital Currency Group,
which invests in
cryptocurrencies
and blockchain
startups.
As part of their compensation, certain CoinDesk employees, including editorial employees, may receive exposure to DCG equity in the form of
stock appreciation rights,
which vest over a multi-year period. CoinDesk journalists are not allowed to purchase stock outright in DCG
.
Oliver Knight is a CoinDesk reporter based between London and Lisbon. He does not own any crypto.
Oliver Knight is a CoinDesk reporter based between London and Lisbon. He does not own any crypto.
Announcing Winners Of Peace Poster Competition U.S. Embassy & Consulates In Russia U.S. Embassy Moscow
Announcing Winners Of Peace Poster Competition – U.S. Embassy & Consulates In Russia – U.S. Embassy Moscow https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/announcing-winners-of-peace-poster-competition-u-s-embassy-consulates-in-russia-u-s-embassy-moscow/
Press Release
In Honor of UN International Day of Peace
Announcing Winners of Peace Poster Competition
September 21, 2022
At this critical moment in history, when peace, freedom, and democracy are under threat, U.S. Embassy Moscow is proud to honor the United Nations International Day of Peace with the announcement of the winners of the Imagining Peace poster competition. In the words of competition curator and judge Angelina Lippert, Chief Curator of Poster House in New York City, “Posters are the perfect medium to express succinct ideas in a rapidly changing world. Since the 1860s, every conflict has engendered a public facing poster response that calls for peace, resolution, or an end to injustice and violence.”
This competition brought together artists from all over the world to celebrate the fundamental human right of peace by reimagining it and sharing their vision. In their creative depictions, we recognize the hunger for harmony, mutual understanding, and an end to hostilities that continue to bring senseless death and destruction to innocent people. We congratulate all the artists who contributed their Imagining Peace designs to illustrate the singular significance of peace as a basic human right. As former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, John J. Sullivan, expressed: “It has long been a U.S. policy priority to advocate for and advance peace in the world. Now more than ever is a critical moment to strengthen our commitment to those ideals, and to safeguard peace, stability, and prosperity.”
A special congratulations to the winners from the United States, North Macedonia, and Russia, whose poster designs have won the top prize of the opportunity to travel to New York City and Washington, D.C., to discuss their work with U.S. cultural leaders. Their entries, and those of all who submitted artwork, give us continued hope that people from across the globe are joined together by a desire to live in peace, and that we can realize this goal when we work together toward this common vision. Let us take today to remember the fundamentality of peace and continue our collective endeavor to achieve it in every corner of the world.
In October, we will exhibit winning designs with selected submissions at U.S. Embassy
Moscow. You may also view the competition’s artwork on U.S. Embassy Moscow social media
platforms, the U .S. Embassy Moscow website, and at the competition website: https://www.imaginingpeace2022.org/exhibition/.
By U.S. Mission Russia | 21 September, 2022 | Topics: Art & Culture, Fundamental Freedoms, Press Releases
HHS Technology Group Partners With Amendola For Strategic PR And Marketing Services PR Newswire
HHS Technology Group Partners With Amendola For Strategic PR And Marketing Services – PR Newswire https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/hhs-technology-group-partners-with-amendola-for-strategic-pr-and-marketing-services-pr-newswire/
Award-winning Healthcare IT Marketing & PR agency to collaborate with leader in data and analytics software solutions and services
, /PRNewswire/ — Amendola, a nationally recognized, award-winning healthcare and technology public relations and marketing firm, announced that HHS Technology Group (HTG), a leader in purpose-built data and analytics software and solutions for the public and private sector, has selected the firm as its agency of record to assist with messaging, marketing, and promotion of its distinct technology solutions, including its recent collaboration on the COVID-19 Research Database designed to create a scalable, repeatable model accelerating real-world pandemic research.
“Healthcare systems, researchers, and agencies need a reliable technology partner to accelerate innovation utilizing our purpose-built platform that allows the harmonization, exploration, visualization, and modeling of patient data,” said Brett Furst, president of HTG. “We are excited to deepen our relationship with Amendola as we help answer some of healthcare’s most complex questions. Based on HTG’s previous relationship working with Amendola and my experience engaging them at other companies, I am confident in Amendola’s exceptional abilities to strengthen HTG’s position as an industry thought leader and drive our success with customers.”
Amendola is implementing a comprehensive media and communications plan for HTG to showcase the company’s current technology and services, new offerings, accomplishments, customer wins, and industry partnerships.
HTG recently announced a collaboration to offer public and private sector access to resources for the fight against the invisible epidemic of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and long-term COVID-19. This news follows HTG’s partnership providing access to the COVID-19 Research Database, a pro bono initiative led by numerous prominent companies to scale an open research database to extract and operationalize insights about critical health challenges. HTG also provides modular, interoperable solutions certified by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), enabling state agencies to quickly transform their legacy Medicaid Management Information Systems (MMIS) into a modern program.
About Amendola Communications
Amendola is an award-winning, insights-driven public relations and marketing firm that integrates media relations, social media, content, and lead gen programs to move healthcare, live sciences/pharma, and healthcare IT decision-makers to action. The agency represents some of the industry’s best-known brands and groundbreaking startups disrupting the status quo. Nearly 90% of its client base represents multi-year clients and/or repeat client executives. Amendola’s seasoned PR and marketing team understands the healthcare ecosystem’s ongoing complexities and provides strategic guidance and creative direction to drive positive ROI, boost reputation and increase market share. Making an impact since 2003, Amendola combines traditional and digital media to fuel meaningful and measurable growth. For more information about the industry’s “A-Team,” visit www.acmarketingpr.com, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.
About HHS Technology Group
HHS Technology Group is a software and solutions company serving the needs of commercial enterprises and government agencies. HHS Technology Group delivers modular software solutions, custom development, and integration services for the modernization and operation of systems supporting a broad spectrum of business and government needs. For more information about HHS Technology Group, visit www.hhstechgroup.com.
Media contact: [email protected]
SOURCE Amendola Communications
3 Gaming Stocks To Watch Despite Industry Challenges Zacks Investment Research
3 Gaming Stocks To Watch Despite Industry Challenges – Zacks Investment Research https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/3-gaming-stocks-to-watch-despite-industry-challenges-zacks-investment-research/
The Zacks Gaming industry is gradually recovering from the coronavirus pandemic. Although the industry is benefiting from improving visitation in Las Vegas, dismal visitation in Macau is hurting it. The Macau recovery remains slow and it is still unclear when the market will return to its pre-pandemic level. However, robust demand for sports betting is aiding the industry. Stocks like MGM Resorts International (MGM – Free Report) , Wynn Resorts, Limited (WYNN – Free Report) and Boyd Gaming Corporation (BYD – Free Report) are likely to gain traction from this upbeat demand.
Industry Description
The Zacks Gaming industry includes companies, which primarily own and operate integrated casinos, hotels and entertainment resorts. Some industry players also deliver technology products and services across lotteries, electronic gaming machines, sports betting and interactive gaming. Some industry participants further develop and operate gaming establishments as well as associated lodging, restaurant, horse racing and entertainment amenities. Some companies are also involved in developing and selling gaming applications. Additionally, e-sport or sporting event or tournament services, content management system, video software, mobile applications and e-sports data platform solutions are provided.
Key Themes Shaping the Gaming Industry
Visitation Still Below Pre-Pandemic Level: Traffic persists as a major concern for the gaming industry since the coronavirus pandemic. However, the industry is gradually coming out of the woods despite a dismal performance in Macau still hurting the industry. Easing of local COVID-related restrictions helped gross gaming revenue (GGR) to rebound in August to $271 million compared with $49 million recorded in July. However, the figure was well below the August 2019 figure of $3 billion and also down 50.7% year over year. For the first eight months of 2022, Macau’s GGR declined 53.4% year over year and 85.4% compared with the same period in 2019. In 2021, Macau casinos’ performance was better than the 2020 reading but still well below the pre-pandemic level. In 2021, Macau’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) totaled $10.82 billion, up nearly 44% year over year. However, the 2021 annual figure was still 70% below the pre-pandemic tally. Notably, companies continue to focus on the level of services and staffing with selective amenities, and enhanced safety and social-distancing protocols in the gaming floor to welcome gamers.
U.S. Commercial Gaming Revenues Make Record: The gaming industry in the United States is recovering faster than anticipated. Per the American Gaming Association data, revenues from gambling hit a record high of $53 billion in 2021. Gambling was already flourishing in the United States until the pandemic had struck in early 2020. Previously, in 2019, revenues from gambling hit a record high of $43.65 billion. In July 2022, U.S commercial gaming revenues came in at $5.06 billion, up 2.8% year over year. Gaming revenues surpassed the $5-billion mark four times in the last five months. Through July, commercial gaming revenues touched $34.27 billion, up 15.5% year over year. The U.S. gaming industry will continue to improve.
Sports Betting a Major Driver: The legalization of sports betting in Delaware, Mississippi, New Jersey, New Mexico, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Montana, Indiana, Tennessee, Illinois and New Hampshire has been driving growth for a while. Moreover, bettors can now place wagers via the digital platforms in Connecticut, Kentucky, Michigan, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, South Carolina, California, Oregon, Arizona, Montana, Colorado and other states. Some popular gaming applications include DraftKings, Barstool, FanDuel, BetMGM, BetRivers, Fox Bet and BetMonarch.
Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Cloudy Prospects
The Zacks Gaming industry is grouped within the broader Zacks Consumer Discretionary sector. It carries a Zacks Industry Rank #166, which places it in the bottom 34% of more than 251 Zacks industries.
The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, which is basically the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates gloomy near-term prospects. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperforms the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
The industry’s position in the bottom 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries is a result of a negative earnings outlook for the constituent companies in aggregate. Looking at the aggregate earnings estimate revisions, it appears that analysts are gradually losing confidence in this group’s earnings growth potential. Since Mar 31, 2022, the industry’s southbound estimate for the current year has widened 145%.
Despite the industry’s drab near-term prospects, we will present a few gaming stocks that one can add to the investment portfolio, given their strong fundamentals. But it’s worth looking at the industry’s shareholder returns and its current valuation first.
Industry Underperforms Sector and the S&P 500
The Zacks Gaming industry has lagged the S&P 500 Index and the broader Zacks Consumer Discretionary sector over the past year.
The industry has plunged 42.3% over this period compared with the S&P 500 Index’s decline of 11.7% and the sector’s decrease of 37.6%.
One-Year Price Performance
Gaming Industry’s Valuation
Since gaming companies are debt-laden, valuing the same based on the EV/EBITDA (Enterprise Value/ Earnings before Interest Tax Depreciation and Amortization) ratio makes sense. The industry currently has a forward 12-month EV/EBITDA ratio of 13.65. The space is trading at a discount compared to the market at large, as the forward 12-month EV/EBITDA ratio for the S&P 500 is 19.92.
Over the past five years, the industry has traded as high as 16.75X and as low as 6.89X, with a median of 10.91X, as the chart below shows.
Enterprise Value-to EBITDA Ratio (Past 5 Years)
3 Zacks Gaming Stocks to Watch for
MGM Resorts: Based in Las Vegas, NV, MGM Resorts is a holding company, and primarily owns and operates casino resorts through wholly-owned subsidiaries. MGM is benefiting from pent-up consumer demand, high domestic casino spending and robust demand for sports betting. Also, it is benefiting from increased visitation in the Las Vegas market. Sports betting and iGaming continues to be a major driver for MGM.
Shares of this presently Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) player have declined 17.7% in the past six months. Moreover, MGM’s 2022 earnings and sales are anticipated to increase 106% and 30% each, from the respective year-ago reported figures.
Price & Consensus: MGM
Wynn Resorts: Based in Las Vegas, NV, Wynn Resorts and subsidiaries are a leading developer, owner and operator of casino resorts. WYNN is benefiting from improved non-gaming revenues and expansion in the domestic markets. Also, focus on WynnBET bodes well. Going forward, WYNN anticipates solid revenue generation on the back of new product features and a unique marketing campaign.
Shares of this currently Zacks #3 Ranked player have declined 15.2% in the past six months. Moreover, WYNN’s 2022 earnings and sales are anticipated to increase 39.5% and 2.1% year over year, respectively.
Price & Consensus: WYNN
Boyd Gaming: Founded in 1975 and headquartered in Las Vegas, NV, BYD is benefiting from initiatives to strengthen its current operations, and growth through capital investment and other strategic measures. The expansion of online betting offerings and the FanDuel partnership bodes well. Boyd Gaming is a multi-jurisdictional gaming company.
Shares of this presently Zacks Rank #3 player have declined 24.4% in the past six months. BYD’s 2022 earnings and sales are anticipated to increase 7.4% and 3.2% each from the respective year-ago reported numbers.
Price & Consensus: BYD
Timeshare Sellers May Have A Vacation From Minimum TaxPart 2 Bloomberg Tax
Timeshare Sellers May Have A Vacation From Minimum Tax—Part 2 – Bloomberg Tax https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/timeshare-sellers-may-have-a-vacation-from-minimum-tax-part-2-bloomberg-tax/
The corporate alternative minimum tax (CAMT) usually does not apply to US corporations whose average three-year applicable financial statement income is less than $1 billion. For example, calendar year corporations generally will be exempt from 2023 CAMT if their average 2020, 2021, and 2022 AFSI does not exceed $1 billion.
AFSI is pretax generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) income with certain adjustments, such as the use of tax depreciation. Although the 2021 gross revenue for Hilton Grand Vacations Inc., a major US timeshare seller, was $2.3 billion, the company has average 2020, 2021, and annualized 2022 GAAP net income before taxes of about $100 million. For 2023 and absent a large jump in profitability, HGV’s three-year average GAAP net income before taxes seems poised to fall well below $1 billion for several years. The company does not seem to be a likely candidate for impending CAMT exposure.
A similar GAAP-income based size exemption from the CAMT seems available to some of HGV’s competitors, such as Travel & Leisure Inc. and Bluegreen Vacation Holding Corp., which also are vacation ownership intervals-focused corporations traded on the New York Stock Exchange and based in Florida. Travel & Leisure, HGV’s larger competitor, had 2021 GAAP gross revenue of $3.0 billion and first half 2022 annualized 2022 GAAP net income before taxes of $400 million. It had 2021 GAAP net income before taxes of $400 million and a 2020 GAAP loss before taxes of $300 million.
Bluegreen had 2021 gross revenue of $800 million, first half 2022 annualized 2022 GAAP net income before taxes of $100 million, 2021 GAAP net income before taxes of $100 million, and a 2020 GAAP loss before taxes of $100 million. Because the CAMT has a very large GAAP net income size threshold, and this threshold is a three-year average that still reflects the adverse effects of Covid-19 on the VOI industry, CAMT is not a concern in the short term.
Not all large VOI sellers fall below the $1 billion CAMT net income threshold in the short term. For example, Disney Vacation Resorts’ VOI sales business is owned by Walt Disney Co., which had companywide first half 2022 annualized 2022 GAAP net income of $8.4 billion. For each VOI seller, any commonly controlled corporations required to be aggregated will have to be identified, and the required adjustments from GAAP to AFSI will have to be made, to conclude on whether the CAMT threshold is reached.
CAMT Groupwide Computation
The CAMT is not a transaction-based tax, a segment-based tax, or a subsidiary-based tax; it applies based on consolidated GAAP statements, making some timeshare companies less likely to be subject to it. It may depend on the existence of a large volume of GAAP income items that are not included in taxable income. Selling VOIs on the installment plan produces significant GAAP-over-tax income. But HGV, Travel & Leisure, Bluegreen, and Disney also have large amounts of resort management fee income and other revenue that don’t produce significant GAAP-over-tax income. Moreover, Disney’s media business and theme park operating business are far larger than their VOI sales business, and those businesses might or might not involve material GAAP-over-tax income.
The CAMT does not apply where the regular 21% tax on the consolidated group taxable income exceeds 15% tentative alternative minimum tax on GAAP income. When one business segment with a large volume of GAAP-over-tax items, such as a VOI installment sales business, which is within the same GAAP-consolidated group as other segments that generate a significant volume of income not derived from a GAAP-over-tax excess, such as a resort management fee business, the corporate tax rate in excess of 15% on the latter may offset the effects of the 15% tentative minimum tax rate on the former.
This phenomenon is especially important where the GAAP-over-tax excess is attributable to a reversible timing difference, such as VOI installment obligations, and where the comparably GAAP-profitable business, such as a US resort management fee business, continuously has little or no GAAP-over-tax income. In that case, the 15% CAMT tentative tax rate GAAP-over-tax item is based to a significant extent on the growth of that VOI sales business rather than the absolute volume of that VOI sales business. This is because the collection of tax-deferred VOI installment receivables from earlier years’ sales will trigger a CAMT-creditable regular corporate tax and not generate significant GAAP income. By contrast, the 21% regular tax credit against the CAMT for a continuing fully taxed resort management fee or other business is based on that entire current net income.
On the other hand, the VOI seller group may have other GAAP-over-tax income items, such as executive stock options and GILTI from foreign subsidiary resort management fees. Subject to future CAMT guidance, the items could cause the timeshare seller to be in a marginal CAMT provision, even where the US VOI sales GAAP-over-tax income, if combined only with the US resort management fee GAAP income would not create any CAMT liability. A comprehensive study of each covered VOI seller would be necessary to project its CAMT liability.
Pillar Two
OECD Pillar Two could impose a tax with respect to the US group of US-based multinationals if their effective US tax rate was below 15%, even if their net income was below $1 billion. The tax could be collected from the US parent, such as through the qualified domestic minimum tax (QDMT) proposal contained in the president’s FYE 2023 budget or, from the US parent’s foreign subsidiaries, based on the Pillar Two Undertaxed Payment Rule (UTPR).
Pillar Two generally would only apply to a US based multinational if gross revenue exceed 750 million euros. The lower OECD Pillar Two gross-revenue-based size threshold likely would reach Disney and also could reach Travel & Leisure, HGV, and perhaps Bluegreen. However, Pillar Two has a temporary exclusion from the UTPR rules that can apply where the US group has subsidiaries in no more than five non-US jurisdictions, and the aggregate book value of group assets located outside the US does not exceed 50 million euros.
All those corporations’ ability to blend higher-taxed resort management fee pretax income and other higher-taxed income, with the lower-taxed VOI installment obligation GAAP-over-tax income, would be available under Pillar Two as it is under the CAMT. The Pillar Two tax base computation also favorably excludes timing differences that will reverse within five years. This would exclude a large portion of VOI deferred installment gain from the QDMT and UTPR tax base. Unlike the CAMT, which will be effective in 2023, a US QDMT and foreign UTPRs have not yet been enacted, and their effective date is uncertain.
Conclusion
Many US corporations with segments generating significant GAAP-over-tax income, like HGV’s VOI sales business, may escape the CAMT in the near future because of the $1 billion AFSI threshold. With respect to the CAMT and Pillar Two, the general application on a group-wide basis may permit other businesses within the group to block the application of the CAMT and Pillar Two to the VOI sales business.
One might question as a policy matter whether the VOI installment sale deferral allowed by Section 453(l)(2)(B) should be included in the CAMT tax base, and to the extent such deferral extends beyond five years, should be included as a Pillar Two item—particularly in view of the Section 453(l)(3) deferred corporate tax liability interest charge. Perhaps forthcoming IRS CAMT guidance, such as that issued under the regulatory authority of Section 56A, could provide some CAMT relief on timing differences in general and the VOI installment sales in particular.
This article does not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Bureau of National Affairs, Inc., the publisher of Bloomberg Law and Bloomberg Tax, or its owners.
Author Information
Alan S. Lederman is a shareholder at Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart, P.A. in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
We’d love to hear your smart, original take: Write for Us
%
Live News: Ukraine Will Push Forward In Russian-Occupied Regions Zelenskyy Says Financial Times
Live News: Ukraine Will Push Forward In Russian-Occupied Regions, Zelenskyy Says – Financial Times https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/live-news-ukraine-will-push-forward-in-russian-occupied-regions-zelenskyy-says-financial-times/
Choose your subscription
Trial
Try full digital access and see why over 1 million readers subscribe to the FT
For 4 weeks receive unlimited Premium digital access to the FT’s trusted, award-winning business news
Digital
Be informed with the essential
news and opinion
MyFT – track the topics most important to you
FT Weekend – full access to the weekend content
Mobile & Tablet Apps – download to read on the go
Gift Article – share up to 10 articles a month with family, friends and colleagues
Print
FT print edition delivered Monday – Saturday along with ePaper access
Delivery to your home or office Monday to Saturday
FT Weekend paper – a stimulating blend of news and lifestyle features
ePaper access – the digital replica of the printed newspaper
Team or Enterprise
Premium FT.com access for multiple users, with integrations & admin tools
Group Subscription
Premium Digital access, plus:
Convenient access for groups of users
Integration with third party platforms and CRM systems
Usage based pricing and volume discounts for multiple users
Subscription management tools and usage reporting
SAML-based single sign-on (SSO)
Dedicated account and customer success teams
Or, if you are already a subscriber
Sign in
Are you a student or a professor?
Check if your university has an FT membership to read for free.
Check my access
Back Home: Dana Anghel Returns From Paris To reverv Her Life And Open A Healthy Restaurant In Bucharest Romania-Insider.com
Back Home: Dana Anghel Returns From Paris To “reverv” Her Life And Open A Healthy Restaurant In Bucharest – Romania-Insider.com https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/back-home-dana-anghel-returns-from-paris-to-reverv-her-life-and-open-a-healthy-restaurant-in-bucharest-romania-insider-com/
Dana Anghel became a manager at 24, landed a dream job in Paris, and travelled around the world. In other words, just as she says it, her life has been “a flavorful journey.” But as things started to change, as she started to change and really develop her true self, she realized she needed a “reverv.” So she decided to return to Bucharest and start her own business here: a healthy comfort food restaurant named verv.kitchen.
Dana Anghel was born and raised in Bucharest but left the Romanian capital to continue her studies in France and get her MBA at the leading business school INSEAD. That happened in 2012 when Dana was 26, and things just got better and better for her since then. She got a dream job in Paris, travelled to about 50 countries & territories, and explored and discovered lots of new things, tastes and cultures.
“I am who I am today & I came back to Romania thanks to the French values I now adopted as mine, while keeping my Romanian core and heart,” she told Romania-insider.com.
As her life changed and she accumulated more & various experiences, so did her values and needs. So she decided to “reverve” her life (as she calls it) and focus more on having a healthy lifestyle. Add to that her passion for cooking, and the decision to open a healthy restaurant becomes a rather natural next step.
As for why she decided to start the business back home, she said: “I came back to Bucharest to give back.”
Once the business plan was drafted, the moving back to Bucharest was done, and the perfect location was found, Dana opened verv.kitchen. The healthy comfort food restaurant is located in Bucharest and required an investment of roughly EUR 300,000. Most of the investment was from personal savings, but the support from family & friends helped a lot too.
The 60-seat restaurant has a garden and an indoor area and serves both food and drinks. The menu changes every month, based on the product seasonality, and covers many dishes, including sweets and desserts. Plus, clients can also try the verv.kitchen goodies at home, as delivery is also an option.
And the story is to be continued, as Dana told Romania Insider, with business plans including a few more locations in Bucharest and even a possible expansion outside the capital city, a small shop, and more goodies on the menu.
Discover the full story from the interview below.
To begin with, tell us a bit about yourself. You have visited & discovered many interesting places around the world. What countries/cities have you travelled to, and what was the most exciting experience?
My life has been a flavorful journey.
I was born & raised in Bucharest, and I had the classical start of a child from a regular family: public school next door, a grandmother figure coming to stay with me after school, being force-fed meat because “it is healthy” (I really never liked it, to be honest), being compared with all the other kids (for my family, I had to be the best all the time).
My passion for cooking started during my adolescence, more out of the urgent need to eat something that felt good than out of creativity. After a few “fires in the pan”, I started making recipes that were more creative & fun, and step by step, I discovered that I loved cooking.
During university, I felt that I had something to prove & so I put my other hobbies on hold in order to focus on developing my professional knowledge. I was the first in my class for 3 years in a row just to show my family that I was better than what they said about me; and afterwards, because the projects & classes were super interesting, I took extra evening classes, got some internships & eventually landed a job in management consulting during my 4th year in university.
A big thank you goes to the people who supported me during this time; they may not know it, but my managers & colleagues who saw my potential got me where I am today – I had little self-esteem back then & I usually overcompensated by sleeping an average of 5 hours/night and working or spending time with friends for the other 19 hours of the day – anything that would bring me knowledge.
“The rest is history”, as the saying goes. I became a manager at 24, went to get my MBA at INSEAD at 26, got the dream job in Paris & travelled around the world.
I developed my true self between the ages of 26 & 33. INSEAD re-ignited the fire of creativity in me & the work projects as an internal consultant and afterwards as a director helped me find self-esteem & self-worth. I saw myself through the eyes of cultures in which my nature was appreciated: they liked my kindness while valuing the fact that I was an equitable yet tough manager.
I travelled to only about 50 countries & territories (mostly work-related & spending a few weeks in each place), so I dare say that at some point, I will restart travelling.
The most interesting experience for me was in Paris, the city that I still consider home. I did not want to live in Paris, my plan was to stay in Singapore. But some things in life cannot be controlled by us & it looks like Paris wanted me – and for good reason. The Parisian culture is in many aspects the opposite of the culture in Bucharest. This alone made me develop a more well-rounded personality while opening my eyes to how amazing diversity is for the world. I had an extreme culture shock in Paris (for the more spiritual amongst you, I went through a “dark night of the soul” there). I learned modesty, open-mindedness & self-expression.
I am who I am today & I came back to Romania thanks to the French values I now adopted as mine, while keeping my Romanian core and heart.
You lived and worked in Paris – when did you leave Romania and why? What made you come back?
I left Romania to get my MBA – I wanted a school that was top-10 in the world & I chose the “funky” one. I left in 2012 when I was a little mad at the opportunities Bucharest had to offer me from a professional perspective & I was outright furious at the medical system.
After passing through Fontainebleau & Singapore, I was overqualified for most jobs that were both in my domain & in Romania. I went to Paris.
Travelling around the world opened my mind. And as I became more & more Parisian, I adopted French values. There is 1 point that struck a chord and started a process in me that led to my return to my hometown.
“When you are young, society invests in you. Then you give back. Afterwards society invests in you again.”
I came back to Bucharest to give back.
I can only give back from my heart & I can only offer what I have. I have a lot of knowledge on healthy experiences, including healthy food, sleep, therapy, hormones. My natural response to struggling with unhealthy patterns & habits is to learn.
verv started with a healthy restaurant because I also like cooking.
Why did you choose to bet on a restaurant with vegan food? What motivated you?
verv.kitchen is a healthy comfort food restaurant. Healthy for the people & healthy for the planet. The concept is based on what I feel & hope for the people of the city in which I grew up.
The idea of the place is to offer a safe space in the middle of the city: a peaceful & pleasant environment, safe to bring your true self (really, you can come if your pyjamas if you like), safe to eat & drink at.
Since you asked about veganism, the food & drink part is simple. What is healthy in the context of what Bucharest has to offer (because the environment of our visitors is important)?
– vegan is healthy
Many people eat meat every day in Bucharest. Even for non-vegans & non-vegetarians, eating like this can quickly become unhealthy. An alternative is needed.
The fact that more & more people are becoming vegetarian & vegan these days helps our journey. We are here to offer knowledge & a pleasant atmosphere. We give the recipes to everyone who asks in the hope that this will grow the consumption of healthy food; I will just create new recipes once other restaurants start using the ones we already have.
From an environmental perspective, I will not develop the topic much – if anybody is interested: google “meat & dairy pollution”.
Interestingly, there was an adaptation that we had to make that I initially didn’t expect. The population of vegetarians in Bucharest seems to be much higher than the vegan population. Our brunch has 4 “omelettes”: 2 vegan & 2 vegetarian (free range eggs, separate pan, totally separate from the vegan products – allergies to eggs are serious). Our customers requested vegetarian brunch options, probably because brunch is a time to sit around the table with everyone.
– gluten-free is healthy
So many people in Bucharest eat heavily processed white flour products. While gluten as a protein is not bad, that form of eating is leading to more & more allergies and intolerances. There are amazing recipes that do not focus on white flour.
– zero-added sugar is healthy
I’m a sugar addict. I do not wish that on anyone. I hope for a world in which we do not make our kids addicted to sugar anymore.
What followed after you decided to start on this path? How did you find the perfect place for the restaurant, and what was the investment? How did you cover the costs?
Firstly, I made a business plan. Secondly, I moved back to Bucharest together with my former partner, Cedric. And thirdly, we started searching for the perfect location.
Finding the place was the first adventure. It took about 6 months from when we started searching & until we signed a lease. There were 3 instrumental ingredients in finding the location: Cedric’s help, the right real estate agent, and the support from friends & family.
The investment was t...
Here Is The Latest Pac-12 Conference Sports News From The Associated Press Valdosta Daily Times
Here Is The Latest Pac-12 Conference Sports News From The Associated Press – Valdosta Daily Times https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/here-is-the-latest-pac-12-conference-sports-news-from-the-associated-press-valdosta-daily-times/
UNDATED (AP) — The College Football Playoff is built to expand. While only three games determine a champion, the current postseason format is seven games: Two semifinals, a championship game and four marquee bowls. To convert a four-team playoff into 12 requires four more games and about three more weeks. Expanding for the 2024 and ’25 seasons largely hinges upon whether the already-scheduled semifinals and championship game can be pushed back. The NFL schedule will play a big role, too. College football fans should be prepared to watch playoff games on weeknights.
UNDATED (AP) — The early-season starts by the four Pacific Northwest schools would have had all the hallmarks of an exciting race in the Pac-12’s North Division. If only the North Division still existed. The current season marks the first time that the two teams with the highest winning percentage in conference games will meet in the championship game. The Pac-12 decided to do away with divisions after the NCAA Division I Council changed the rule requiring conferences to have divisions to conduct championship games. Washington, Washington State, and Oregon State are all off to 3-0 starts, while Oregon is 2-1. The Huskies and Ducks pulled off significant wins last weekend, with Washington defeating No. 11 Michigan State 39-28 and 25th-ranked Oregon beating No. 12 BYU 41-20.
TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — Arizona State ended the Herm Edwards experiment a day after an ugly home loss. The Sun Devils are hoping the change will help them straighten out a season that still has nine games left. Interim coach Shaun Aguano will be at the helm of this transition. Arizona State’s former running backs coach has deep ties to football in the Grand Canyon State. Aguano was one of the most decorated high school coaches in Arizona history and had been on Edwards’ staff since 2019.
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — The Colorado Buffaloes are off to an 0-3 start for the first time since 2012. The program has tumbled to the depths where director of athletics Rick George felt it necessary to acknowledge in a statement that the Buffaloes have been disappointing this fall. Third-year coach Karl Dorrell is feeling the pressure as he tries to turn around a program that lost quite a few players to the transfer portal. The Buffaloes are a 21-point underdog this weekend when they host UCLA at Folsom Field.
UNDATED (AP) — Three weeks into the season and there are still more than few teams ranked in The Associated Press college football poll ranked that have a lot to prove. No. 4 Michigan is the prime example. The Wolverines have scored at least 50 in each of their first three games, but those opponents are a combined 0-9 against other FBS teams. But where it is ranked is based more on faith than accomplishments. Reality check rolls through the rankings this week, looking for mystery teams.
UNDATED (AP) — Four running backs rushed for at least 200 yards in the Football Bowl Subdivision over the weekend. Eastern Michigan’s Samson Evans carried 36 times for 259 yards and a touchdown against Arizona State. UNLV’s Aidan Robbins ran for 227 yards and three TDs against North Texas. UAB’s Dewayne McBride had 223 yards and four TDs against Georgia Southern. Minnesota’s Mohammed Ibrahim had 202 yards and three touchdowns against Colorado. Ohio State scored 77 points for the third time since 2016. Georgia has allowed seven points or less in each of its first three games for the first time since 1954.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Sony WH-1000XM5 Review: Feature Rich Headset With High Quality Active Noise Cancellation News9 LIVE
Sony WH-1000XM5 Review: Feature Rich Headset With High Quality Active Noise Cancellation – News9 LIVE https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/sony-wh-1000xm5-review-feature-rich-headset-with-high-quality-active-noise-cancellation-news9-live/
As soon as you place the Sony WH-1000XM5 over your ears, you are transported to a quiet place, with external sounds dampened. You feel like you are in a cocoon, separated from the environment. The isolation is that good. When you start playing the music, the crystal clear quality makes it immediately apparent that these headsets have some next level noise cancellation. When you take the headsets off, there is a rush of sound to the ears that makes you appreciate just how noisy the real world is. There are significant changes in the design compared to the previous version, with the major difference being that the M5 is not collapsible like the M4. As can be expected from Sony audio products, the headphones are feature packed and if you have used Sony TWS earbuds or headsets before, then you should get a head start with the Sony Headphones Connect app. There is no plastic used in the packaging, with Sony using its ‘original blended’ material that incorporates recycled paper.
What’s in the box. (Image credit: News9/Aditya Madanapalle)
In the box, is the carrying case, with the headphones inside. There is a flap in the middle of the box that contains the short charging cable and the comfortably long aux wire. If your desktop computer does not have a headphone jack towards the front of the cabinet, then it can be difficult for the cable to reach. There is a coupon code for a trial of the 360 Reality Audio service. The user manual and reference guide can be accessed online.
Build and design
The right earcup has two buttons, one is the power button which doubles as a Bluetooth pairing button on a long press of five seconds. A blue indicator light shows the status of the device. The other button is slightly longer, and is used to toggle noise cancellation and ambient noise modes. Right at the bottom of the left earbud is the aux port. The right earcup has the USB-C port for charging in the same location. Placed all around the headphones are the external microphones. This time, there are eight of them, all of which are used for noise cancellation. The WH-1000XM4 had five microphones, with the information from four of these used for noise cancellation. The end result is that WH-1000XM5 is indeed able to deliver superior noise cancellation.
The earcups have a more aerodynamic design compared to the previous iteration of the series, to reduce disturbances from wind. (Image credit: News9/Aditya Madanapalle)
The build quality is great, with sturdy buttons and joints. The insides of the earcups are made of soft, synthetic leather and comfortable. The slider has a new stepless design, that allows you to make precise and tiny adjustments as you listen, without having to choose a particular setting and stick to it. While the headphones are light enough to be comfortable for never-ending Dungeons and Dragons sessions or a binge watch, there is a lateral pressure on the ears that introduces some discomfort. This may just be because of how new the headset is though, and it may loosen up with use. The earcups have a more aerodynamic design, that performs better in really windy conditions, ensuring that the noise cancellation does not get jittery because of the noise of the wind interacting with the headphones.
The design has been changed considerably from the Sony WH-1000XM4, with the earcups no longer swivelling inwards to reduce the space occupied by the headset. Sony has attempted to compensate for this with a redesigned case, that has creases on the side to make it collapsible. This allows you to squeeze in the case into tightly packed bags (the case has been designed for laptop bags), but the difference isn’t much, and the case is only collapsible when the headphones are not actually in the case.
The slider has a new stepless design. (Image credit: News9/Aditya Madanapalle)
The right earcup has a capacitive touch surface for controls using gestures. Up and down swipes control the volume, forward and backward swipes allow you to switch tracks. Covering the entire earcup with your hand does something really cool, it not only stops the active noise cancellation, it uses the microphones to let you hear what is happening in the environment better. This is an action just like putting a phone to your ear, and it kicks in instantly, and works well.
The collapsible case is designed to easily fit into laptop bags. (Image credit: News9/Aditya Madanapalle)
The headset is available in two colours, black and silver. We got the silver one, and this colour is a little worrying. This is just because of the possibility of the faux leather being difficult to clean, and getting stained by dust, sweat and oils. Even immaculately maintained ears and hair can be problematic for use with the silver colour. Note that the there is no ingress protection rating, which would mean that it has a rating of IPXX. This means that the headphones are not really suitable for working out or running, especially if you get really sweaty. If there is one place where the device falls short, then it is dust and water protection.
The faux leather on the earcups can easily get dirty. (Image credit: News9/Aditya Madanapalle)
Features
These headphones are truly feature packed. The features have been developed with a lot of consideration for the various situations in which the headphones are being used. The Headphones Connect app provides a great deal of granular control over which features are active, and how you use the device. The app is essential for multi-device connectivity. The setup process is pretty lengthy, with a lot of options to set up, but that is the understandable cost of providing granular controls to the user.
Adaptive Sound Control automatically switches between Noise Cancellation, Ambient Sound and Off depending on what you are doing, such as sitting at home or travelling. The Ambient Sound feature has a volume slider, that lets you decide how much to amplify the sounds from the environment. The headphones can detect four activities, sitting, walking, running and commuting, and provides users with the ability to control what the Adaptive Sound Control does in each scenario. The app can be trained to learn your habits, such as travelling at the same times, for how the Adaptive Sound Control is used.
The app provides a number of granular options, and updates the firmware on the headset. (Image credit: News9/Aditya Madanapalle)
The most useful feature on the homescreen of the app is a realtime indicator for the sound pressure. There is a handy reference guide for safe levels recommended by the WHO. The Activity tab has a Safe Listening section that lets you monitor sound pressure levels across your listening history. This is an incredibly helpful feature for those who listen to music on low levels on audio equipment, and want to take care of their eardrums. It is not clear if the information is fed back to the Health app, but seems like it is not. If not, this would be a useful addition.
The other options available in the app include the Speak-to-Chat toggle, which automatically cuts off the playback when you are talking, an equaliser that changes the settings in the headset itself, a choice between prioritising quality or stability over the Bluetooth connection, and a toggle for the DSEE Extreme feature, which uses AI to upscale the audio quality. There is an option to disable the touch panel gestures entirely, controlling what the NC/AMB button does.
It can take a while to finish setting up the app. (Image credit: News9/Aditya Madanapalle)
Multi device connection is a bit of a complicated process. First you have to enable multi device connection in the Headphone Connect app. At this point, the headset will repair with the device that it has already paired with.
Setting up the connection with multiple devices can be problematic, with the connection dropping off from one of the devices. Switching between the two is not as easy as claimed, though it works most of the time. There is a simple toggle that lets you switch between one of two connected device, but if the connection to either one drops, you have to troubleshoot a bit and reconnect everything all over again. However, if you are listening to music on your laptop and get an incoming call, then the switch to a smartphone and back to the laptop after the call is done is seamless.
At times, the app can switch between devices on its own without any user input. We found that removing the headset caused the music to stop, and putting it on caused it to resume playback, but at this point, the connection frequently defaulted to the first device, that was the smartphone. Then it became a fight between the finger and the device, as the app repeatedly switched to the smartphone, even when the laptop was being tapped. At times, the headset can ‘wake up’ and switch to the intended device for the playback when left on its own, and you do not reach out to the smartphone to channel the sound through the right device.
The charging cable is pretty short. (Image credit: News9/Aditya Madanapalle)
The app offers deep integration with Spotify. When switching playback on the Spotify app between two connected devices, the headphones automatically switches to the device with the playback seamlessly. Switching from the smartphone to the laptop however, is more problematic in this scenario. The NC/AMB button can also be configured to fire up the Spotify app after a single or double tap. The feature works only on the smartphone though, and not the laptop. If you try it when the headset is connected to a laptop, then the app switches the connection to the phone, and starts Spotify playback on the phone. These eccentricities are easy to work with, and th...
Crypto News: Heres Everything You Should Know About Cardano Compound And MetaCryp Crypto Mode
Crypto News: Here’s Everything You Should Know About Cardano, Compound And MetaCryp – Crypto Mode https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/crypto-news-heres-everything-you-should-know-about-cardano-compound-and-metacryp-crypto-mode/
As a crypto trader, you must always learn about your trading options. Doing this can help you make informed decisions about your actions in the coin market. Are you interested in learning about the hottest options in the crypto space? You’re at the right place. This piece will teach you everything you need about Cardano (ADA), Compound (COMP), and MetaCryp (MTCR).
The Blockchain For The Changemakers – Cardano
If you’ve ever heard of a cryptocurrency called the Ethereum killer, chances are high that they were talking about Cardano. This cryptocurrency was famously renamed after the Countess of Lovelace (1812-1852) – August Ada King. Little wonder this crypto coin rose to place among the biggest names in the coin market shortly after its release. Cardano is referred to as the Ethereum killer because they are capable of the same feature – support decentralised applications with smart contracts. However, Cardano has an interesting advantage that has got everyone talking – its proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus.
So, what’s special about the PoS? The PoS was designed to improve the Proof-of-work (PoW) mechanism. The PoW is what you’ll find in early crypto projects, like Bitcoin and Ethereum. However, it didn’t take long before it became too slow to process cryptocurrency transactions. Through the PoS, Cardano can support decentralised applications and smart contracts faster. Also, users won’t have to spend as much on each transaction. Cardano became an alternative to Ethereum, and many developers have continued to use the decentralised protocol for their projects. ADA is the token symbol for Cardano’s blockchain.
The DeFi Lending Protocol – Compound
Compound is another reputable name on the coin market. This cryptocurrency is renowned for its unique use case. Compound is a decentralised protocol that allows users to enjoy advanced features you’ll only find in traditional finance institutions. In simple terms, Compound is a blockchain that will allow users to enjoy borrowing and lending features. Instead of visiting a bank to borrow money, you can easily get the amount in question from this decentralised protocol. This cryptocurrency has implemented several features to ensure that users cannot run away with borrowed funds. The most notable of all these features is referred to as overcollaterization. But what does it mean?
Overcollaterization is a term that describes a scenario where users will be required to deposit more money on the platform than they tend to borrow. This means that if you plan to borrow $2,000 from the compound, then you must have locked more than $2,000 on the platform. Compound operates like a bank. It charges interest on loans and offers interest to those who lock their assets on the platform. There’s no fixed interest rate on this protocol. The interest rate offered to borrowers and lenders depends on the market supply and demand. One of the most interesting things about Compound protocol is that there are several crypto coin options to borrow and deposit.
The P2E Project – MetaCryp
If you’ve been on the coin market for some time, you’ll have heard about blockchain-based gaming. While it’s not an entirely new concept, MetaCryp aims to take this aspect of the coin market to new heights. This new project is interested in being a safe space where blockchain users can visit to unwind after a long day. Metacryp has designed its features to offer; access to the metaverse, play2earn gaming, advanced DeFi platforms, socialisation, etc. MetaCryp aims to be the coin that will connect the metaverse with the coin market. Users can create custom experiences for themselves and have a great time.
Before now, it was clear that many old blockchain-based games were designed with developers in mind. These games failed to offer players any real benefit or immersive experience. MetaCryp has come to change the narrative. MTCR is the token symbol of this innovative decentralised protocol. The entire MetaCryp infrastructure is built on the Binance Smart Chain. So, you can expect to enjoy fast transaction speeds at low costs.
Find Out More About MetaCryp (MTCR) In The Links Below:
Presale: http://presale.metacryptoken.io/
Website: http://metacryptoken.io/
Telegram: https://t.me/MetaCrypOfficial
Always conduct proper research when dealing with pre-sales of currencies and tokens. The information above does not constitute investment advice by CryptoMode or its team, nor does it reflect the views of the website or its staff.
CryptoMode produces high quality content for cryptocurrency companies. We have provided brand exposure for dozens of companies to date, and you can be one of them. All of our clients appreciate our value/pricing ratio. Contact us if you have any questions: [email protected] None of the information on this website is investment or financial advice. CryptoMode is not responsible for any financial losses sustained by acting on information provided on this website by its authors or clients. No reviews should be taken at face value, always conduct your research before making financial commitments.
U.S. Department Of Education Awards Project SERV Grants To Fisk University And Coppin State University | U.S US Department Of Education
U.S. Department Of Education Awards Project SERV Grants To Fisk University And Coppin State University | U.S – US Department Of Education https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/u-s-department-of-education-awards-project-serv-grants-to-fisk-university-and-coppin-state-university-u-s-us-department-of-education/
Today, the U.S. Department of Education (Department) announced Project School Emergency Response to Violence (Project SERV) grants to two additional Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) that experienced bomb threats earlier this year. Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, and Coppin State University in Baltimore, Maryland were awarded over $60,000 and $130,000 in Project SERV grants respectively.
Coppin State University (CSU) will use its Project SERV funds to hire a full-time counseling psychologist, who will provide both individual and group counseling services. The funds will also go toward response training for all students, staff, and faculty as well as resources to cope with the stress and the anxiety that such events can trigger.
Fisk University will use its Project SERV funds to boost campus safety, including security guard resources and equipment. Fisk will also use its funds for student services, such as a forum providing students with resources and information on how to cope with stress and anxiety, a workshop on how to respond after a crisis or trauma, in addition to other services needed to restore confidence and reduce anxiety among students. Additional institutions that have also been awarded Project SERV grants include; Tougaloo College, Fayetteville State University, and Southern University Law Center.
The Department expects additional grants to be awarded in the coming weeks and continues to work with additional HBCUs impacted to support them in the grant application process and in expediting applications once received. At this week’s 2022 National HBCU Week Conference, the Department and its partners are also providing technical assistance on Project SERV applications and sharing best practices through workshops and networking opportunities.
“We’re pleased that these institutions have been able to receive the aid they deserve to ensure the well-being and safety of their students, staff, and faculty, said Dietra Trent, Executive Director of the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities. “The Biden-Harris Administration is here to support our HBCU community, and we will continue working to promote policies and practices that fortify their strength and advance educational equity, excellence, and economic opportunity through these institutions.”
Project SERV provides short-term funding for local educational agencies and institutions of higher education that have experienced a violent or traumatic incident to assist in restoring a safe environment conducive to learning.
The Biden-Harris Administration continues to take a whole-of-government approach to support HBCU campuses. The Administration has delivered nearly $6 billion in cumulative investments to HBCUs, including:
$3.7 billion through the American Rescue Plan and other COVID relief;
$1.6 billion in capital finance debt relief; and
$500 million in grant funding to help HBCUs and other MSIs expand capacity.
Automobile Giant Tech Chery Launched The “Yaoguang 2025” Future Technology Strategy – PR Newswire https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/automobile-giant-tech-chery-launched-the-yaoguang-2025-future-technology-strategy-pr-newswire/
ANKARA, Turkey, Sept. 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Last week Chery Automobile held the “Yaoguang 2025 Chery Technology DAY” event in Wuhu, Anhui. Numerous advanced technological achievements and a new concept model were released at the event site.
image_5011064_11230529
The “Yaoguang 2025” strategy was officially launched at the event site to let consumers know about Chery’s cutting-edge technologies and the development direction of future cars, which covers the four core areas of Mars Architecture, Kunpeng Power, Lion Technology and Galaxy Ecology. Based on this, Chery Automobile will build 13 core technologies systems.
Mars architecture covers more comprehensive
The Mars architecture includes two aspects: platform architecture and EEA electrical and electronic architecture. The high-end E0X car platform has been announced. The platform has five characteristics: flexible bandwidth, flexible space, efficient electric drive, comfortable driving control, safety and light weight.
Kunpeng power saves fuel consumption and lasts longer
Kunpeng Power covers five core technologies of hybrid engine, hybrid gearbox, electric drive, battery and hydrogen fuel cell, and has outstanding performance in energy consumption, battery life and acceleration performance. The new generation of Kunpeng Power, which has an engine thermal efficiency of 44%, an average hybrid transmission efficiency of more than 90%, and a hybrid driving range of over 1,300 kilometers, will also meet you next year.
Lion Technology is smarter
In terms of intelligent driving, Chery Automobile has built the Chery Pilot platform, which has the advantages of worry-free, labor-saving, time-saving, user-friendly, and continuous experience, bringing users a good driving experience. The upgraded Chery Pilot3.0 platform has a computing power of 1000+TOPS and can be connected to a maximum of 48 sensors, realizing multi-scenario point-to-point intelligent driving and intelligent parking and other functions, making users’ travel more convenient and faster.
Galaxy ecology is more friendly
Chery continues to build an autonomous and controllable “1+3+N” galaxy ecology, where “1” represents Chery and “3” is for automobile ‘s connecting and extending, including intelligent cloud platform, intelligent data and intelligent upgrade, “N” is an ecosystem built around users that can be co-created, continuously upgraded and covers the world. The purpose of Galaxy Ecology is to create a combination of users’ favorite Internet products and vehicles according to users’ car habits, so as to provide users with a more useful and intelligent vehicle.
Looking forward to the application of Chery new technologies.
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1903931/image_5011064_11230529.jpg
SOURCE Chery
Germany Nationalizes Countrys Biggest Gas Importer Uniper | Business News | Wfmz.com 69News WFMZ-TV
Germany Nationalizes Country’s Biggest Gas Importer Uniper | Business News | Wfmz.com – 69News WFMZ-TV https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/germany-nationalizes-countrys-biggest-gas-importer-uniper-business-news-wfmz-com-69news-wfmz-tv/
BERLIN (AP) — The German government said Wednesday that it has agreed to nationalize the country’s biggest gas importing company, Uniper, expanding state intervention in the industry to prevent an energy shortage resulting from Russia’s war in Ukraine.
The deal with Uniper builds on a rescue package agreed in July and features a capital increase of 8 billion euros (dollars) that the government will finance. As part of the agreement, the government will gain a 99% stake in Uniper, which until now was controlled by Finland-based Fortum. The Finnish government has the largest stake in Fortum.
Germany’s economy minister, Robert Habeck, said the deal was necessary because of the significance that Uniper plays in the German gas market. It still needs to be approved by the European Commission.
Uniper supplies about 40% of all gas customers in Germany and before the war it bought about half of its gas from Russia.
The company’s losses mounted as Russia has cut back natural gas supplies to European countries supporting Ukraine. Prices have soared for the fuel needed to heat homes, generate electricity and power factories, raising fears of business closures, rationing and a recession as the weather turns cold.
European countries have scrambled to counter the price spiral and prioritized securing their energy supplies for winter, including by filling their natural gas storage. Just last week, Germany also moved to take control of three Russian-owned oil refineries before an embargo on Russian oil takes effect next year.
Habeck noted that Germany has managed to fill its gas storage facilities to over 90% capacity in preparation for the winter heating season despite Russia halting gas deliveries through the Nord Stream 1 pipeline. Wholesale prices for gas have almost halved since the summer, he said.
“This means that, as a whole, we have coped quite well with the situation,” said Habeck. “But for Uniper the situation become significantly more dramatic and significantly worse.”
Citing the importance of Uniper for the German gas market, Habeck said the government had chosen to nationalize the company “in order to ensure security of supply for Germany.”
Chancellor Olaf Scholz has insisted that Germany is well-placed to get through the winter with enough energy, pointing to new liquefied natural gas terminals expected to start work in the coming months, among other things.
In a separate move last Friday, his government announced that German authorities were taking control of three Russian-owned refineries to ensure energy security. Two subsidiaries of Russian oil giant Rosneft are being put under the administration of Mueller’s Federal Network Agency.
Rosneft accounts for about 12% of Germany’s oil refining capacity, importing oil worth several hundred million euros (dollars) every month, according to the government, which said the trusteeship was initially due to last for six months.
The network regulator already was put in charge of Gazprom’s former German subsidiary in April, a decision that the government said was necessary to bring “order to the conditions” at the company after the Kremlin-controlled parent company abruptly cut ties with the unit.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
What To Expect From Retailers Christmas Ad Campaigns This Year The Drum
What To Expect From Retailers’ Christmas Ad Campaigns This Year – The Drum https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/what-to-expect-from-retailers-christmas-ad-campaigns-this-year-the-drum/
Adland creatives in the US and UK share their predictions on how the cost of living crisis will be addressed during a frugal festive period as part of The Drum’s Evolution of E-commerce Deep Dive.
This year’s Christmas will undoubtedly look very different for many families as they grapple with an increased cost of living, which means that jolly campaigns will seem grossly out of touch.
As people’s spending power is tightly squeezed, brands are prepping for a very frugal festive period. In fact, according to WPP’s media agency Mindshare, 4 in 10 Brits said they are worried about affording it at all.
Furthermore, the research shows that the number of people feeling negative about Christmastime is almost five times higher than at the same time last year.
In previous years, holiday campaigns from retailers and e-commerce companies leaned into the act of giving gifts, eating delicious food and being cozily snuggled up with loved ones – which won’t be the reality for so many people around the world this winter.
So to find out how Christmas 2022 campaigns might look, we ask advertising industry creatives in the US and the UK for their thoughts on what retailers will focus on instead. Here’s what they had to say…
The US
Zakiya Larry, global chief communications officer, Constellation/72andSunny: This year’s Christmas message from retailers will be a mosaic of diversity, equity, healthy living and finding value in these intangible elements versus material items (with their widgets for sale being the exception).
While these are a lot of messages to mesh into something singularly cohesive, it’s possible. Retailers will anchor themselves as the gathering place, their various modes of shopping as a way to remain healthy, at a distance but connected, showcase their pricing or sales as forward-thinking and conscious of the times and visually paint a picture of diversity with the casting of their ads. Lastly, the ads will promote philanthropic initiatives or give-back campaigns.
Luca Lorenzini, co-founder and executive creative director, Small: The situation is not that different from when the pandemic started. Back then, most of the brands wanted to say something but they really didn’t know what and were, I guess, feeling helpless. The result was communication filled with beautiful words like ’together’ and ’stronger’, but essentially quite empty. The brands that won at that time were those that spent their budget to help the communities with real actions, more than with beautiful ads.
This is what I would do this year if I was a retailer. I would ask myself: ’How can I really help the community to cope with the rising cost of living?’ This said, I predict that most of them will decide not to face the ugly reality. They will shoot an expensive film and share the usual heartwarming message as if nothing was happening. Because, in the end, it’s the easiest (and less risky) thing to do.
The UK
Owen Lee, chief creative officer, FCB Inferno: I don’t think brands will be able to hide behind the value-for-money argument completely this year. The crisis is too acute. For the best part of 100 years, retailers have always walked the tightrope between selling the magic of Christmas and what could be considered emotional blackmail. It’s a trade-off we are all willing to accept. But this year, I think this equation may break.
Encouraging what could be seen as unnecessary or even reckless consumerism may well be a bridge too far in the contract between advertisers and the public. Brands will need to be smarter than that. I think we will see advertisers leaning into the real values of Christmas – giving, sharing and being together. And let’s be honest, these have always been more important than pineapple rings or fidget spinners. And this year they may well be more effective.
Matt Steward, chief executive officer, Above+Beyond: It will be tricky, like walking a tightrope, with the risk on one side of tumbling into an earnest dullness that misses the party and, on the other, the risk of ending up with tone-deaf indulgence that ignores the punchy and precarious context. Marketers and agency folk will have been war gaming an insane volume of scenarios that have evolved and pivoted month-to-month.
For many Britons, it will be an energy bill Truss-mas – because though bills are now capped, which lessens the pain, inflation still remains. It may also be emotionally volatile as all of this is happening in tandem with a World Cup, which will either fill British spirits up with boozy cheer or wintry misery.
Messaging this Christmas feels like cooking a frozen turkey: really hard to get right and potentially very damaging. But it’s not all doom and gloom. A clear sense of purpose will allow longer-term planning of messaging. And smart, tactical agility will allow for short-term sales opportunities.
Rob Sellers, head of retail, VCCP: It feels weird to be writing about another Christmas which will be ’hard’ and ’unique’. For retailers, it will be about treading a very fine line between ’special’ and ’value’ as shoppers will have to make choices about what is important for them this Christmas.
Don’t be surprised if shoppers start to very consciously plan which items to get from where and seek out deals to stretch their total seasonal budget. Expect smart promotions coupled with reminding audiences that Christmas is special and that, however hard life is, there is always reason to celebrate.
Sid McGrath, chief strategy officer, Wunderman Thompson UK: Making predictions about retailers’ Christmas messages this year is like trying to tie a knot in an eel – challenging, awkward and probably ultimately futile. But I’ll see if I can tame the slippery festive fella.
It’s easy to presume that, in times of crises, the indomitable British spirit will see us going all out in a grand festive bonanza, come what may. The reality is that this time round there simply won’t be the available money for a big splash and to spread the love too far. When budgets are finite, there really is a limit to what can be done and no one should encourage consumers to overspend and get into even more debt. Retailers, please take note and do the right, responsible thing here.
This will be the Christmas of the savvier, more ingenious shopper. Pulling off a big Christmas on a smaller budget, with tips, hacks, shortcuts and a make-do-and-mend approach might just work this year, with retailers thinking more about inspiration rather than just information.
Maybe, the stigma of pre-loved will finally leave us and it’ll be a bumper time for eBay and friends. Entry-level pricing for tech will become de rigueur, a cheaper supporting cast on the Christmas table will tickle our taste buds and vegetarian or vegan will be the shrewd choice, not just the sustainable one.
Whatever we do, there will be wit, charm and fortitude. How’s that for a nicely knotted eel?
Rankin, founder, Rankin Creative: On the practical side, value. Retailers will define value, package up value and elevate value in different ways – we might possibly see brands doing more ’flash sales’, offers, loyalty schemes and packages that help customers feel they’re getting more bang for their buck.
The second, on the more emotional side, will be a ’we’re in it together’ sentiment – retailers will want to convey a spirit of partnership, of weathering the storm together and a rallying cry of igniting the ’Great British spirit’ to keep us going.
Lastly, they will focus much more on Christmas as a moment to find escapism, to forget the troubles just for a moment, to celebrate each other with an almost ’treat yourself’ mentality. Not in a frivolous way that disregards the economic backdrop, but a sentiment of Christmas is a time to ’let go’ and enjoy, and to make sacrifices pre and post to enable that.
Matt Hardisty, strategy partner and head of strategy innovation, AMV BBDO: Retailers’ messaging this Christmas will be played out on a sliding scale of apocalyptic and measured.
The apocalyptic one: ‘Let me out of my feeling.’ With impending climate fallout looming and an untested PM, it’s all change and we’ll be partying like it’s our last in large public spaces that offer us free warmth – albeit with more 0% alcohol in the mix than previous years (even with the added dynamic of the World Cup).
The measured one: ‘Thankful, making it count.’ The cost of living crisis will affect behavior in multiple ways. Christmas saving has already started to ensure that we can provide a family dinner on December 25. We’ll see considered £5 to £10 mini gifts, affordable indulgences, practical gifts and blankets all on the up. People will club together to make bigger entertainment purchases possible – on Black Friday, obviously. And as John Lewis begins to give its staff breakfast, lunch and a £2,000 bonus towards their escalating bills, employers will offer festive sweeteners (if they haven’t shut up shop under a tidal wave of costs).
For more on the Evolution of E-commerce, check out The Drum’s latest Deep Dive.
Here Is The Latest ACC Sports News From The Associated Press Mankato Free Press
Here Is The Latest ACC Sports News From The Associated Press – Mankato Free Press https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/here-is-the-latest-acc-sports-news-from-the-associated-press-mankato-free-press/
CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) — No. 5 Clemson has a clear chance to be favorites for the Atlantic Coast Conference’s Atlantic Division. First up is No. 21 Wake Forest on Saturday followed by 12th-ranked North Carolina State a week later. But if the Tigers fall short, it’s likely to be a season long, week-to-week scuffle for the division crown. Clemson won the division from 2015 through 2020, but were mostly out of contention for a seventh straight title by mid-October. Wake Forest is the defending Atlantic winner and face Clemson at home looking to snap a 13-game series losing streak.
UNDATED (AP) — The College Football Playoff is built to expand. While only three games determine a champion, the current postseason format is seven games: Two semifinals, a championship game and four marquee bowls. To convert a four-team playoff into 12 requires four more games and about three more weeks. Expanding for the 2024 and ’25 seasons largely hinges upon whether the already-scheduled semifinals and championship game can be pushed back. The NFL schedule will play a big role, too. College football fans should be prepared to watch playoff games on weeknights.
CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) — Clemson defensive tackle Bryan Bresee returned to campus Monday but will head back to Maryland with coach Dabo Swinney and up to 40 players and staffers for the funeral of his sister, Ella. The 15-year-old died of brain cancer last Thursday. Her brother went home to his family after the Tigers’ 35-12 victory over Furman on Sept. 10 and did not play this weekend in a win against Louisiana Tech. Bresee is expected to play Saturday against No. 21 Wake Forest.
UNDATED (AP) — The Atlantic Coast Conference is relocating its headquarters but remaining in its home state of North Carolina. The league announced it would move its offices from Greensboro to downtown Charlotte in 2023. The league was founded in Greensboro in 1953. Commissioner Jim Phillips had been discussing the possibility since last year after taking over for the retiring John Swofford. Phillips said last October that the ACC’s school presidents and chancellors had inquired about the future of the league’s headquarters during his interview process.
UNDATED (AP) — Three weeks into the season and there are still more than few teams ranked in The Associated Press college football poll ranked that have a lot to prove. No. 4 Michigan is the prime example. The Wolverines have scored at least 50 in each of their first three games, but those opponents are a combined 0-9 against other FBS teams. But where it is ranked is based more on faith than accomplishments. Reality check rolls through the rankings this week, looking for mystery teams.
UNDATED (AP) — Four running backs rushed for at least 200 yards in the Football Bowl Subdivision over the weekend. Eastern Michigan’s Samson Evans carried 36 times for 259 yards and a touchdown against Arizona State. UNLV’s Aidan Robbins ran for 227 yards and three TDs against North Texas. UAB’s Dewayne McBride had 223 yards and four TDs against Georgia Southern. Minnesota’s Mohammed Ibrahim had 202 yards and three touchdowns against Colorado. Ohio State scored 77 points for the third time since 2016. Georgia has allowed seven points or less in each of its first three games for the first time since 1954.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
