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Ethereum Crypto Price Prediction 2022 – Will ETH Surpass $2,000? – Cryptonews https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/ethereum-crypto-price-prediction-2022-will-eth-surpass-2000-cryptonews/ Ethereum holders have been drumming up a lot of excitement and interest as the Merge event nears. Whilst Ethereum is down 6.81% on the 24-hour time frame, ETH has still moved up 2.96% against Bitcoin.  Will Ethereum surpass the $2,000 price levels once again?  Since November 2021 Ethereum has been in a macro-downtrend and has struggled to see sustenance beyond the 20-day moving average on the weekly time frame.  Many speculate Ethereum had already hit its bottom at $882 on the 18th June, this is a total correction of 81.67% from the all-time high of $4,871 set on the Coinbase exchange on the 10th November 2021.  Resilient investors who scooped up Ethereum at $882 would still be up by 80% today even with the persisting bearish sentiment in the crypto markets.  ETH/USD – Weekly Time Frame. Just recently Ethereum lost a critical support level of $1,704 which has now been flipped into resistance. With the bears temporarily in control, there is a threat that we could see Ethereum head down to the $1,411 support range if there is negative price continuation.  If however, the Merge is a succesful price catalyst and the resistance of $1,704 is broken there is a good chance that Ethereum might rally up to $2,174 which is a resistance written in from the 23rd January 2022.  Ethereum now resides within a horizontal channel which is a consolidation pattern. The recent loss of price structure reminds me of the 7th of September where Ethereum came down to $1,490 and then rallied back up to $1,790. As we can see, there is a good chance that we might see a bullish reversal here at these lower levels which could soar the price of Ethereum back towards the $2,000 levels of the bulls can take full control. The relative-strength index also sits at 33.26 which is leaning towards oversold. This could reflect that current price levels might be good for dollar cost averaging.  Ideally, it would be very good to see Ethereum break through the resistance of the horizontal channel at $1,629 and retest the $1,704 resistance level before seeing potential continuation towards the $2,000 mark. Crypto Influencers Buy More Ethereum With the Merge only 1 day and 9 hours away more and more eyes begin to watch the price action of Ethereum.  According to Coinmarketcap Ethereum is $1,596 and has a market capital of $195 billion. Over the last 24 hours Ethereum has seen an increase of trading volume by 25.18% which is another bullish sign that a rally could potentially be on the way.  Many crypto influencers have also been Tweeting about the Ethereum Merge generating more hype and euphoria around the movement.  For example crypto analyst @MartiniGuyYT has purchased another $600,000 and it could be speculate that the motive behind buying Ethereum is the Ethereum Merge.  The performance of Ethereum is extremely volatile at the moment as tension around the Ethereum merge increases.  Historical data suggests that September is also one of the worst months for high-risk assets like cryptocurrency. On the positive side, October, November and December are usually much healthier looking and more rewarding. Ethereum Crypto Video Analysis With enough community morale and bullish momentum Ethereum should be able to reclaim the $2,000 price levels. However, we are still in a crypto winter so naturally we are going to see rejections at resistance levels. I speculate that Ethereum will chop between $1,250-2,000 for the remainder of 2022. If you wish to maximize your exposure to the Ethereum merge you could potentially look into adding Polygon to your portfolio as there is a positive correlation between their price structure.  An alternative option to Ethereum which might provide a higher return for 2022 is the Tamadoge presale.

U.S. Rebukes Russia For Claims Of Secret Bioweapons In Ukraine – The New York Times https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/u-s-rebukes-russia-for-claims-of-secret-bioweapons-in-ukraine-the-new-york-times/ Technology|U.S. Rebukes Russia for Claims of Secret Bioweapons in Ukraine https://www.nytimes.com/2022/09/13/technology/russia-ukraine-bioweapons.html Send any friend a story As a subscriber, you have 10 gift articles to give each month. Anyone can read what you share. President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia in Moscow on Tuesday. The State Department condemned Russia for repeating unfounded claims that the United States was operating secret biological labs in Ukraine.Credit…Pool photo by Gavriil Grigorov Sept. 13, 2022, 5:53 p.m. ET The State Department strongly criticized Russia on Tuesday for making what it called “spurious allegations” that the United States operated clandestine biological weapons laboratories in Ukraine. The department accused Russia of abusing the formal review process of the Biological Weapons Convention, a treaty barring the manufacturing and use of deadly toxins or pathogens, by using a diplomatic meeting in Geneva last week as a platform to continue spreading disinformation to justify the war in Ukraine. Russia used its authority as a signatory of the treaty, first adopted in 1975, to convene the meeting to air its repeated unfounded claims that the United States was operating secret biological labs in Ukraine and other countries along Russia’s periphery. The United States has repeatedly denied that, saying that in reality it provided financial and technical assistance to dozens of countries, including at one point Russia itself, to protect biological security and public health. The meeting in Geneva, which took place behind closed doors, ended on Friday without an official finding on the accusations, but delegates of 35 of 89 nations either dismissed the Russian claims or expressed support for the kind of research the United States and Ukraine were conducting, the State Department said in a statement. Only seven nations expressed support for Russia: Belarus, China, Cuba, Iran, Nicaragua, Syria and Venezuela. China, whose leader, Xi Jinping, is to meet with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia this week in Uzbekistan, stopped short of endorsing Russia’s claims. But its representative at the meeting, Li Song, said China was “deeply concerned” about the allegations and called for an independent international investigation of the United States’ activities involving biological research. “My delegation believes that a series of specific questions raised by Russia have not yet received pointed response from the U.S.,” Mr. Li said, according to one of dozens of written statements posted by the United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs. The United States and other countries accused Russia of undermining the convention — and public health safety — by making unfounded claims about conducting nefarious activities under the cover of a treaty intended to ban biological weapons. American officials noted that, until 2014, Russia itself participated in a Defense Department program that helped to dismantle old weapons programs and has since expanded to public health threats. “These disinformation efforts are deeply cynical and serve only to harm international peace and security,” Poland said in a statement after last week’s meetings. A number of other countries — including several that also have taken part in the Defense Department initiative, known as the Cooperative Threat Reduction Program — made noncommittal statements. One of them, Turkey, a NATO ally, nonetheless took issue with one part of Russia’s allegation: that a Turkish-made drone was being configured to deliver the biological weapons supposedly under development in Ukraine. “Its technical specifications do not include any system or mechanism that can be used as biological weapons,” Turkey’s statement said of the drone, called the Bayraktar. Although Russia faced broad criticism, it appeared unlikely to end its information campaign over the issue, signaling that it would continue to raise it at the United Nations General Assembly this month and at later sessions of the Biological Weapons Convention. “No, it wasn’t a resounding success for Russia, but no one expected that it would be,” said Milton Leitenberg, an expert on the Soviet Union’s biological weapons program at the University of Maryland. Even so, the effort gave the Russians a chance to claim there was no consensus. “It was exactly what the Russian government did it for,” Mr. Leitenberg said.

DOE Awards $178M For Bioenergy Technology – High-Performance Computing News Analysis | InsideHPC – InsideHPC https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/doe-awards-178m-for-bioenergy-technology-high-performance-computing-news-analysis-insidehpc-insidehpc/ Sept. 13, 2022 — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today awards totaling $178 million for bioenergy research projects intended to advance sustainable technology breakthroughs that can improve public health, help address climate change, improve food and agricultural production, and create more resilient supply chains. This funding will support biotechnology R&D of bioenergy crops, industrial microorganisms and microbiomes. The projects were selected by competitive peer review under four DOE Funding Opportunity Announcements sponsored by the Biological and Environmental Research program within the Department’s Office of Science: Biosystems Design to Enable Safe Production of Next-Generation Biofuels, Bioproducts, and Biomaterials; Quantum-Enabled Bioimaging and Sensing Approaches for Bioenergy; Systems Biology Enabled Microbiome Research to Facilitate Predictions of Interactions and Behavior in the Environment; and Genomics-Enabled Plant Biology for Determination of Gene Function.  Total funding is $178 million for projects lasting up to five years in duration, with $47 million in Fiscal Year 2022 dollars and outyear funding contingent on congressional appropriations. The list of projects and more information can be found here. “Producing cheaper energy from organic materials — like plants, food, and waste — keeps money in the pockets of energy consumers and prevents carbon pollution from reaching the atmosphere,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “These projects will continue to advance the boundaries of biotechnology and support the emergence of a thriving U.S. bioeconomy that creates good-paying jobs and helps us meet our climate goals.” By discovering, understanding, and harnessing nature’s sophisticated capabilities we can address a broad range of topics related to DOE’s mission in sustainable bioenergy development, including the production of sustainably grown crops for bioenergy and bioproducts to tackle climate change. The biotechnology funding supports: Research on renewable bioenergy and biomaterials production to develop new bioproduction platforms, including research on systems and synthetic biology, computational modeling on bioenergy crops, industrial microbes and algae, and microbial communities. (Funding amount: $99.7 million) Quantum-enabled bioimaging and sensing for bioenergy to develop state-of-the-art instruments and biological sensors that will advance research on plant and microbial systems relevant to bioenergy and environmental research. (Funding amount: $18 million) Research to characterize gene function in bioenergy crop plants to facilitate development of new bioenergy feedstocks with traits tailored for bioenergy and bioproduct development. (Funding amount: $27.4 million) Understanding the role of microbiomes in the biogeochemical cycling of elements in terrestrial soils and wetlands genomics-based and systems biology research. (Funding amount: $33 million)

Six County School In Top 16 Of Initial OHSAA Football Ratings – The Star Beacon https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/six-county-school-in-top-16-of-initial-ohsaa-football-ratings-the-star-beacon/ Six Ashtabula County schools appear in the first weekly Ohio High School Athletic Association football computer ratings, which was released on Tuesday. Jefferson leads the way, rated third in Division IV, Region 13. Edgewood is sixth in the same division and region. Others in the top-16 of their respective division and region include Geneva, eighth, in DIII, Region 9; Lakeside, ninth, DII, Region 5; Conneaut, 13th, DV, Region 17 and Saint John, 16th, DVII, Region 25. The Falcons (3-1) have an average point-total of 6.275, which ranks after Girard (8.125) and West Branch (7.5). Jefferson fell to Girard in its Northeast 8 Conference opener 21-6 last Friday. The Falcons are at Niles on Friday. The Red Dragons are rated 18th in DIV, Region 13. The Warriors (3-1) have an average-point total of 5.025. Edgewood is slated to play at West Geauga on Friday. The Eagles (3-1) check with an average of 5.725. Geneva takes a three-game winning streak to Kirtland Friday. The Hornets are rated first in Division VI, Region 21. The Dragons (3-1) fell out of the unbeaten ranks with a 20-13 loss to Geneva last Friday. Lakeside has a 5.525 average-point total. The Dragons host Perry, which is third in DV, Region 17. The Spartans (3-1) are also on a three-game winning streak. They have a average total of 3.5795 points. Conneaut hosts Rootstown, which is 4-0 and rated second in DVI, Region 21, on Friday. And the Heralds (2-2) have accrued an average of 2.125 points. That is just ahead of Windham (1-2, 2.111 average), which defeated Saint John 50-12 last Saturday. Madison (1-3) is just outside of the top-16 in DIII, Region 9, rated 17th. The Blue Streaks have an average of 2.825 total points. Harvey (2-2) is ranked 16th with an average of 3.25. Madison is at Riverside, which is rated fifth in DII, Region 5, for a Western Reserve Conference game on Friday. The computer ratings are released every Tuesday beginning in the fifth week of the season, leading up to the final report on Oct. 23, when 448 schools — the top 16 in each region — will qualify for the playoffs. There are 711 schools in this week’s 11-player football computer ratings. The 72 largest schools are in Division I, while the remaining schools are divided equally in Divisions II through VII (approximately 106 schools in each division). The top 20 schools in each region are listed below by division and region with record and average points. OHSAA Football Computer Ratings,  Entering Week 5 Top 16 schools from each region in the final report Oct. 23 will qualify for the playoffs. Division I Region 1 1. Lakewood St. Edward (4-0) 12.6276, 2. Cle. St. Ignatius (3-0) 9.3652, 3. Cleveland Heights (4-0) 8.2, 4. Medina (3-1) 7.65, 5. Wadsworth (3-1) 7.25, 6. Berea-Midpark (2-2) 5.375, 7. Mentor (2-2) 4.6907, 8. Massillon Jackson (2-2) 4.475, 9. Elyria (2-2) 4.15, 10. Strongsville (2-2) 3.55, 11. Cle. John Marshall (2-2) 2.875, 12. Lorain (1-3) 2.35, 13. Stow-Munroe Falls (1-3) 2.1, 14. Brunswick (1-3) 1.5, 14. Canton GlenOak (1-3) 1.5, 16. Canton McKinley (0-4) 0, 16. Euclid (0-4) 0 Region 2 1. Centerville (4-0) 11.5, 2. Dublin Jerome (4-0) 10.625, 3. Clayton Northmont (4-0) 9.625, 4. Springfield (3-0) 8.6966, 5. Delaware Hayes (3-1) 6.9, 6. Marysville (3-1) 6.825, 7. Kettering Fairmont (3-1) 6.3977, 8. Perrysburg (3-1) 6.1, 9. Lewis Center Olentangy Orange (2-2) 5.7, 10. Huber Hts. Wayne (2-2) 4.5631, 11. Delaware Olentangy Berlin (2-2) 4.425, 12. Dublin Coffman (2-2) 3.725, 13. Lewis Center Olentangy (2-2) 3.6, 13. Tol. Whitmer (2-2) 3.6, 15. Miamisburg (2-2) 3.525, 16. Beavercreek (2-2) 3.075, 17. Powell Olentangy Liberty (1-3) 2.875, 18. Findlay (1-3) 1.825 Region 3 1. New Albany (4-0) 9.3813, 2. Gahanna Lincoln (3-1) 8.075, 3. Hilliard Bradley (3-1) 8.025, 4. Grove City (3-1) 7.7, 5. Thomas Worthington (3-1) 7.4798, 6. Westerville North (3-1) 7.3, 7. Pickerington North (3-1) 7.2753, 8. Hilliard Darby (2-2) 6.275, 9. Upper Arlington (3-1) 6, 10. Pickerington Central (2-2) 5.8, 11. Groveport-Madison (2-2) 5.525, 12. Hilliard Davidson (2-2) 5.0442, 13. Grove City Central Crossing (2-2) 4.5922, 14. Galloway Westland (2-2) 4.2121, 15. Newark (2-2) 3.6, 16. Westerville Central (1-3) 3.425, 17. Lancaster (0-4) 0, 17. Reynoldsburg (0-4) 0 Region 4 1. Cin. Archbishop Moeller (4-0) 12.9432, 2. Cin. Elder (3-1) 9.75, 3. West Chester Lakota West (4-0) 9.7, 4. Cin. Princeton (4-0) 9.575, 5. Milford (4-0) 9.525, 6. Fairfield (4-0) 8.4, 7. Mason (3-1) 7.425, 8. Springboro (3-1) 7.05, 9. Cin. St. Xavier (2-2) 5.2197, 10. Hamilton (2-2) 5.1, 11. Cincinnati West Clermont (2-2) 4.275, 12. Cin. Western Hills (2-2) 3.175, 13. Cin. Oak Hills (2-2) 3.125, 14. Lebanon (1-3) 2.65, 15. Liberty Twp. Lakota East (1-3) 2.225, 16. Middletown (1-3) 1.5, 17. Cin. Colerain (0-4) 0, 17. Cin. Sycamore (0-4) 0, 17. Cin. Walnut Hills (0-4) 0 Division II Region 5 1. Macedonia Nordonia (4-0) 10.8, 2. Akron Archbishop Hoban (4-0) 9.2552, 3. Hudson (4-0) 9.075, 4. Austintown-Fitch (4-0) 8.8, 5. Painesville Riverside (3-1) 8.725, 6. Mayfield (3-1) 7.075, 7. Maple Hts. (3-1) 6.9028, 8. Solon (3-1) 6.55, 9. Ashtabula Lakeside (3-1) 5.525, 10. Garfield Hts. (3-1) 5.5, 11. Akron St. Vincent-St Mary (2-1) 5, 12. Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit (3-1) 4.8686, 13. Barberton (2-2) 4.2121, 14. Willoughby South (2-2) 3.975, 15. Cle. John Hay (2-1) 3.3333, 16. Boardman (2-2) 3, 17. Cle. Rhodes (1-2) 2, 18. Twinsburg (1-3) 1.975, 19. Cuyahoga Falls (1-3) 1.95, 20. Akron North (1-3) 1.625 Region 6 1. Medina Highland (4-0) 10.925, 2. Fremont Ross (4-0) 10.4, 2. North Ridgeville (4-0) 10.4, 4. Avon (3-1) 8.4874, 5. Whitehouse Anthony Wayne (4-0) 8.475, 6. Tol. Central Cath. (3-1) 6.475, 6. Sylvania Southview (4-0) 6.475, 8. Avon Lake (3-1) 6.2857, 9. Parma Hts. Valley Forge (3-1) 6, 10. Olmsted Falls (3-1) 5.65, 11. Oregon Clay (3-1) 5.575, 12. North Royalton (2-2) 5.125, 13. Parma Normandy (3-1) 5.075, 14. Westlake (3-1) 4.85, 15. North Olmsted (2-2) 4.575, 16. Lakewood (2-2) 4.3, 17. Ashland (2-2) 3.25, 18. Tol. St. John’s (1-3) 3.15, 19. Sylvania Northview (2-2) 3, 20. Grafton Midview (1-3) 1.975 Region 7 1. Uniontown Lake (4-0) 10.325, 2. Sunbury Big Walnut (4-0) 9.5644, 3. Dover (4-0) 8.1528, 4. Green (3-1) 7.425, 5. Massillon Washington (3-1) 6.75, 6. Pataskala Watkins Memorial (3-1) 6.7, 7. Westerville South (3-1) 6.6, 8. Wooster (3-1) 5.975, 9. Worthington Kilbourne (2-2) 5.75, 10. Cols. St. Charles (3-1) 5.6427, 11. Massillon Perry (3-1) 5.2, 12. North Canton Hoover (3-1) 5.125, 13. Canal Winchester (2-2) 4.625, 14. Cols. St. Francis DeSales (2-2) 4.275, 15. Ashville Teays Valley (2-2) 4.15, 16. Cols. Briggs (2-1) 4, 17. Cols. Independence (2-1) 3.8333, 18. Pataskala Licking Hts. (2-2) 2.825, 19. Cols. Northland (1-2) 2, 20. Logan (1-3) 1.65 Region 8 1. Xenia (4-0) 10.575, 2. Cin. Winton Woods (4-0) 7.875, 3. Kings Mills Kings (4-0) 6.25, 4. Piqua (3-1) 5.8396, 5. Trenton Edgewood (3-1) 5.825, 6. Morrow Little Miami (2-2) 4.475, 7. Lima Senior (3-1) 4.125, 8. Troy (2-2) 3.8611, 9. Cin. Anderson (2-2) 3.725, 10. Cin. Northwest (2-2) 3.675, 11. Riverside Stebbins (2-1) 3.6667, 12. Sidney (2-2) 3.35, 13. Hamilton Ross (2-2) 3.125, 14. Harrison (1-3) 2.575, 15. Cin. LaSalle (1-2) 2.1667, 16. Cin. Withrow (1-3) 1.625, 17. Fairborn (1-3) 1.375, 18. Cin. Aiken (1-2) 1.1667, 18. Day. Belmont (1-2) 1.1667, 20. Loveland (0-4) 0, 20. Oxford Talawanda (0-4) 0, 20. Cin. Turpin (0-4) 0 Division III Region 9 1. Canfield (4-0) 9.4472, 2. Gates Mills Gilmour Acad. (4-0) 7.9, 3. Youngstown Chaney (4-0) 7.8, 4. Chardon (3-1) 7.4235, 5. Tallmadge (3-1) 6.85, 6. Cuy. Falls Cuy. Valley Christian Acad. (3-1) 6.475, 7. Cle. Villa Angela-St. Joseph (3-1) 5.9107, 8. Geneva (3-1) 5.725, 9. Youngstown Ursuline (3-1) 5.6742, 10. Hunting Valley University School (3-1) 5.6667, 11. Aurora (3-1) 5.65, 12. Alliance (3-1) 5.6, 13. New Philadelphia (2-2) 5.525, 14. Chagrin Falls Kenston (3-1) 5.5, 15. Gates Mills Hawken (3-1) 4.3, 16. Painesville Harvey (2-2) 3.25, 17. Madison (1-3) 2.825, 18. Chardon Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin (1-3) 2.65, 19. Louisville (1-3) 2.35, 20. Bedford (1-3) 2.125 Region 10 1. Tiffin Columbian (3-1) 6.875, 2. Medina Buckeye (3-1) 6.2, 3. Tol. Scott (3-1) 5.9962, 4. Norton (3-1) 5.8, 5. Clyde (3-1) 5.5366, 6. Rocky River Lutheran West (3-1) 5.25, 7. Ontario (3-1) 4.925, 8. Lodi Cloverleaf (3-1) 4.875, 9. Bay Village Bay (2-2) 4.575, 10. Mansfield Senior (2-2) 4.525, 11. Oberlin Firelands (3-1) 4.225, 12. Defiance (2-2) 3.725, 13. Sandusky (2-2) 3.625, 14. Richfield Revere (2-2) 3.6, 15. Cle. Lincoln West (2-1) 3.1667, 16. Parma Padua Franciscan (1-3) 2.6376, 17. Rocky River (1-3) 2.6, 18. Parma Hts. Holy Name (1-2) 2.4444, 19. Lexington (1-3) 2.1, 20. Copley (1-3) 1.5 Region 11 1. Granville (4-0) 8.75, 2. Cols. South (3-0) 7.7765, 3. Chillicothe (3-1) 7.275, 4. Carroll Bloom-Carroll (3-1) 7.225, 5. Dresden Tri-Valley (3-1) 7.175, 6. Thornville Sheridan (3-1) 6.95, 7. Bellefontaine (3-1) 6.7, 8. Washington C.H. Washington (3-1) 5.7222, 9. Jackson (2-2) 5.025, 10. Cols. Bishop Watterson (3-1) 4.8112, 11. Circleville (3-1) 4.775, 11. Whitehall-Yearling (3-1) 4.775, 13. Plain City Jonathan Alder (3-1) 4.45, 14. Zanesville (2-2) 4.075, 15. London (2-2) 4.0152, 16. Cols. Linden McKinley (2-1) 4, 17. Washington C.H. Miami Trace (2-2) 3.8, 18. Cols. Centennial (1-2) 2, 18. Cols. Hamilton Township (1-2) 2, 20. Cols. Beechcroft (1-2) 1.8333 Region 12 1. Hamilton Badin (4-0) 9.575, 2. Tipp City Tippecanoe (4-0) 9.025, 3. New Richmond (4-0) 8.375, 4. Bellbrook (3-1) 7.7, 5. Mount Orab Western Brown (3-1) 7.575, 6. Wapakoneta (3-1) 6.775, 7. Day. Chaminade Julienne (3-1) 6.7461, 8. Elida (4-0) 5.65, 9. Cin. Woodward (3-1) 4.9356, 10. Cin. Mount Healthy (3-1) 4.5, 11. New Carlisle Tecumseh (2-2) 4.475, 12. Cin. Hughe...

Snag A Flight For Just $39 With JetBlue’s Fall In Love Sale | SmarterTravel – SmarterTravel https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/snag-a-flight-for-just-39-with-jetblues-fall-in-love-sale-smartertravel-smartertravel/ In need of a fall vacation? JetBlue’s Fall in Love sale has you covered, with fares starting at just $39. The limited time sale runs now through September 15th for travel between September 20 and November 16, 2022. Great Sale Fare Finds Here are some examples of great deals for one-way tickets available in the sale: New York, NY (LGA) to Savannah, GA (SAV): $39 Fort Lauderdale, FL (FLL) to Washington, DC (DCA): $49 Los Angeles, CA (LAX) to San José del Cabo, Mexico (SJD): $84 Boston, MA (BOS) to Charleston, SC (CHS): $59 Nashville, TN (BNA) to New York, NY (JFK): $59 Important Sale Info The Fall in Love Sale excludes Friday and Sunday travel, and there may be additional blackout dates depending on the route.  To find the best deals, check out JetBlue’s sale site and view deals from your city. Only the lowest available fare classes (Blue Basic or Blue) will be discounted. Note that JetBlue’s Blue Basic fares do not allow a carry-on bag, and a checked bag will cost $35—so be sure to factor the extra cost into your ticket price before purchasing.  JetBlue You Might Also Like: • Can You Switch Seats on a Flight? • When Is the Best Time to Book Holiday Travel? • Does Pet Insurance Really Save You Money? • DOT Launches New Interactive Tool for Airline Passenger Rights • The Best Hiking Boots and Shoes for Every Type of Hiker We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Top Fares From %

Starbucks To Revamp Stores To Speed Service, Boost Morale – Bismarck Tribune https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/starbucks-to-revamp-stores-to-speed-service-boost-morale-bismarck-tribune/ Starbucks, Appoints New CEO. CNN reports Laxman Narasimhan will be the next CEO of Starbucks. After joining the coffee chain on Oct. 1, he will officially take over as CEO in April. He will also join the board of directors. Narasimhan most recently served as CEO of the Reckitt Benckiser Group, a multinational consumer goods company. Howard Schultz will remain interim CEO of Starbucks amid the transition. He will also stay on the board. CNN reports that on Sept. 1, Schultz shared his confidence in Narasimhan to be able to lead the company during a turbulent time. CNN reports that on Sept. 1, Schultz shared his confidence in Narasimhan to be able to lead the company during a turbulent time. He is a strategic and transformational leader with deep experience in building powerful consumer brands. He is the leader we were looking for, Howard Schultz, via statement. Mellody Hobson, independent chair of the Starbucks board, said that , Narasimhan’s “deep, hands-on experience driving strategic transformations at global consumer-facing businesses makes him the ideal choice.”. Prior to joining Reckitt Benckiser, Narasimhan was global chief commercial officer for PepsiCo Starbucks — ringing up record sales but struggling with low employee morale — plans to spend $450 million next year to make its North American stores more efficient and less complex. The company also said it plans to open 2,000 net new stores in the U.S. by 2025, with an emphasis on meeting the growing demand for new types of service, including drive-thru, mobile ordering and delivery. Drive-thru now makes up 50% of U.S. sales, for example, while delivery demand has grown by 24% so far this year. Customizable cold drinks — which now make up as many as 75% of Starbucks’ U.S. beverage orders — are also taxing employees in kitchens designed for simpler hot drinks. Starbucks debuted a new work station that requires less movement and can cut 50 seconds off the process of making a blended iced mocha. A new technology will cut the time needed to make cold brew coffee from 20 hours to a few seconds. “It’s clear that our physical stores have to change. Our physical stores were built for a different era,” said John Culver, Starbucks’ chief operating officer, at a day-long event for investors in Seattle Tuesday. Starbucks executives made little mention of a growing unionization effort at its U.S. stores during morning presentations Tuesday. But it has clearly been an impetus for the company to think more deeply about ways to improve employees’ work life. Since late last year, 236 of Starbucks’ 9,000 company-owned U.S. stores have voted to unionize, an effort the company opposes. “The reality is, we have a trust deficit with our partners,” said Frank Britt, Starbucks’ executive vice president and chief strategy officer. “The work we do in our stores today is too physically hard.” Leading the revamp will be Laxman Narasimhan, a former PepsiCo executive who was named Starbucks’ CEO last week. Narasimhan will spend the next six months shadowing interim CEO Howard Schultz, who helped shape the company after buying it in 1987 and has been leading it on a temporary basis since April. Schultz will remain on Starbucks’ board when Narasimhan assumes the CEO position in April. “It’s an incredible opportunity for me to be learning at the feet of one of the best entrepreneurs in the world,” Narasimhan said, Schultz said Starbucks notched the best sales week in its 51-year history in August when it introduced its fall drink lineup. But Schultz said Starbucks lost its way during the pandemic, when employee retention tumbled even as customers demanded new service like curbside pickup. The top 10 fast-food restaurants for customer satisfaction 1. Chick-fil-A This July 19, 2012, file photo, shows a Chick-fil-A fast food restaurant in Atlanta.  AP FILE 2. Domino’s In this July 15, 2019 file photo shows a Domino’s location in Norwood, Mass. AP FILE 3. KFC A KFC restaurant is open, Wednesday, April 21, 2021, in New York. AP FILE 4. Starbucks A customers exits the drive thru lane at a Starbucks coffee shop, Tuesday, April 27, 2021, in Des Moines, Iowa. AP FILE 5. Five Guys A passerby walks past workers boarding up a Five Guys restaurant along the Nicollet Mall Monday, Nov. 2, 2020, in Minneapolis. AP FILE 6. Panera Bread A Panera Bread store is shown Wednesday, July 10, 2019, in downtown Minneapolis. AP FILE 7. Pizza Hut This Jan. 24, 2017, file photo shows a Pizza Hut in Miami.  AP FILE 8. Arby’s In this Monday, March 1, 2010, file photo, an Arby’s restaurant sign is shown in Cutler Bay, Fla. AP FILE 9. Chipotle Mexican Grill In this March 16, 2020, file photo, a sign indicating that only carry-out or delivery options are available hangs in the window of a closed Chipotle restaurant in Portland, Ore. AP FILE 10. Dunkin’ Donuts This May 7, 2020, file photo, shows a Dunkin’ Donuts at the Greater Pittsburgh International Airport in Moon, Pa. AP FILE Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly.

Healthy Habits Cameron Diaz Lives By To Look And Feel Her Best At 50 — Eat This Not That – Eat This, Not That https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/healthy-habits-cameron-diaz-lives-by-to-look-and-feel-her-best-at-50-eat-this-not-that-eat-this-not-that/ We can all learn more than a thing or two from Cameron Diaz about longevity, and the reasons are strong. The celeb retired from the big screen a few years back to make spending more time embracing life a priority. But Diaz recently appeared as a guest judge on season 7 of “Drag Race All Stars,” giving some solid tips to contestants, and fans were all about it. She will also “un-retire” to star in a new action-comedy film called “Back in Action” with Jamie Foxx. The talented actress has brought us so many favorite roles we’ve loved, including “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” “My Sister’s Keeper,” “There’s Something about Mary,” “Charlie’s Angels,” and lots more. But there are Some Things about Cameron Diaz you may not know about. For one, she loves to cook. She’s also dealt with issues many of us had, revealing in The Body Book, “I had terrible, terrible, skin. It was embarrassing, and I did everything I could think of to make it go away. I tried to cover it with makeup” (via Women’s Health). Diaz is also an absolute empowering role model when it comes to leading a healthy life. With just one look at her Instagram page, you can clearly see the actress, author, and mom does not look even close to 50 years of age. Keep reading to learn more about the celeb’s healthy habits. Amanda Edwards / Contributor Cameron Diaz has not skipped a single beat. She lives and breathes healthy lifestyle habits and even wrote a book about it called The Longevity Book: The Science of Aging, the Biology of Strength, and the Privilege of Time, which comes after her #1 New York Times bestseller, The Body Book. In The Longevity Book, Diaz explores both the science and art of aging and suggests solid steps to live your best, healthiest, and most resilient life as you grow older. Related: George Clooney Is Living His Best Life at 61 and These Are His Secrets Maintaining a healthy diet geared towards longevity is a priority in this star’s life and books. Diaz sticks to the Mediterranean diet, consuming protein, whole grains, fresh produce, and healthy fats (via FoodsForBetterHealth). One of her favorite staples is brown rice couscous. She stays away from processed foods, late-night eating, and sweets. Breakfast for the celeb is typically oatmeal or avocado toast, and as a side note, she enjoys seasoning her avocados with lemon and salt. It’s all about an 80/20 rule when it comes to eating, which shows us that Cameron Diaz is totally human like the rest of us. Her concept is that 80% of her diet consists of the healthy stuff. The other 20% is sheer fun and guilty pleasures, like a cheeseburger or bean burrito. She enjoys cooking, and spends weekend time preparing homemade meals for the week. Related: The Healthy Habits of Harrison Ford Make Indiana Jones Look Great at 80 Cameron Diaz gets her beauty sleep, saying in The Body Book, “We spend a good portion of our lives asleep—or trying to sleep—and the quality of that time spent sleeping determines our mood and our mental sharpness, and not just the next morning but the next years of our life” (via Women’s Health). Live with the concept that you’re not getting older—you’re getting better! Cameron Diaz practices what she preaches, and a good example is the thoughts of Dr. Becca Levy, who states in Diaz’s new book that individuals who are positive-minded and maintain optimistic views about growing older age better physically (via FoodsForBetterHealth). Diaz is pretty thought-provoking when it comes to growing older in The Body Book, saying, “A lot of us fear the idea of aging—getting older, being less mobile, having less energy, and being less of ourselves. But I look at aging like this: getting older is a blessing and a privilege, and if you lay the foundation for a healthy life in your younger years, your older years may very well be some of the best of your life. And the point I’m making is not about keeping up your youthful appearance. This is not about beauty and the aesthetics of our bodies. I want you to feel young. I want you to feel strong. I for one can say honestly that I feel better and stronger and more capable now than I did when I was twenty years old, because I’ve taken better care of myself in the last fifteen years than I did in the first twenty-six years of my life.” As if Cameron Diaz couldn’t get any cooler, she’s the co-founder/creator of organic wine brand, Avaline Wines, which she heavily promotes on her IG. Diaz is quoted saying on Avaline’s website, “The wine industry allows over 70 ingredients or additives to be added to a bottle, without disclosing any of them to the drinker. So we have quite the long list of ‘no’s.’ For Avaline, it’s pretty simple, our grapes are never treated with harsh chemical pesticides, we never use animal by-products, and we never add colors, concentrates or unnecessary sugars.” Alexa Mellardo Alexa is the Mind + Body Deputy Editor of Eat This, Not That!, overseeing the M+B channel and delivering compelling fitness, wellness, and self-care topics to readers. Read more about Alexa

Week 2 Fantasy Football Projections, Rankings From Draft Sharks – Sporting News https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/week-2-fantasy-football-projections-rankings-from-draft-sharks-sporting-news/ When it comes to weekly fantasy football projections and rankings, one thing is certain: There’s no such thing as “too much.” The more stats and expert opinions you can absorb, the better it will make your start ‘em, sit ‘em decisions. This is even true in Week 2 when fantasy owners might not have as many lineup questions. Because we believe in the “more is better” approach to fantasy research, we’re happy to offer SN Fantasy readers an exclusive look at Draft Sharks’ award-winning projections and rankings every week. We’ll also highlight a couple players at each position who really stand out in their rankings compared to ours. To see Draft Sharks’ full Week 2 stat projections and rankings, including their exclusive 3D floor-to-ceiling projections, become a Draft Sharks’ member today at the link below! TRY DRAFT SHARKS FREE: Dominate with exclusive tools, including Free-Agent Finder & Trade Navigator! Week 2 Fantasy Football Projections, Rankings from Draft Sharks Week 2 fantasy QB projections, rankings Spotlight Player: Aaron Rodgers, Packers vs. Bears (SN Ranking: 14 | DS Ranking: 18) There isn’t that big of a spread in Rodgers’ ranking, but we still think he’s a borderline starter while Draft Sharks has him pretty well out of the conversation. Based on how he played last week, Draft Sharks has a good chance of being right (especially if Allen Lazard doesn’t play again), but we just can’t quit the reigning two-time MVP. Chicago’s defense looked better than it is because of weather conditions last week, and Rodgers is talented enough to post respectable numbers even with mediocre pass-catchers. We still aren’t recommending you trust him blindly, but we’re at least a little more optimistic than DS. SN’s WEEK 2 PPR RANKINGS: QBs | RBs | WRs | TEs | D/ST | Kicker Week 2 fantasy RB projections, rankings Spotlight Player: Darrell Henderson Jr., Rams vs. Falcons (SN Ranking: 24 | DS Ranking: 12) Henderson was clearly the lead man in L.A.’s backfield last Thursday, but he still mustered just 73 total yards on 18 touches. Obviously, the matchup is more favorable this time, but that also means Henderson might not do as much in the receiving game (five catches, 26 yards). We’re also a little worried that Cam Akers will receive at least a few more touches this time around. If Henderson scores, he’ll probably come closer to Draft Sharks’ ranking than ours, but we still need to see more before we can give him RB1 status. Spotlight Player: Aaron Jones, Packers vs. Bears (SN PPR Ranking: 26 | DS PPR Ranking: 15) Jones always has a lot of upside, but after watching AJ Dillon get five more carries, one more target, and just six fewer snaps than Jones last week, we have a tough time ranking him in the teens. It’s entirely possible that distribution flips this week, but at the very least, Dillon seems a little more likely to be used as the goal-line hammer. As with Henderson, we need to see more positive signs from Jones before ranking him in the teens. SN’s WEEK 2 STANDARD RANKINGS: QBs | RBs | WRs | TEs | D/ST | Kicker Week 2 fantasy WR projections, rankings Spotlight Player: Jerry Jeudy, Broncos vs. Texans (SN PPR Ranking: 31 | DS PPR Ranking: 18) Jeudy could absolutely finish as the No. 18 receiver this week, but we still question who the “WR1” really is in Denver. Jeudy and Courtland Sutton both had seven targets and finished within four snaps of each other in Week 1. It’s certainly possible both go off against a mediocre Texans’ pass defense, but we’re still being a little cautious with Jeudy, whose lone big play was a somewhat-fluky 67-yard TD where a Seahawks’ defender whiffed on what should have been an easy tackle. Spotlight Player: Brandon Aiyuk, 49ers vs. Falcons (SN PPR Ranking: 34 | DS PPR Ranking: 55) Are we too optimistic on Aiyuk? Probably, but he played 99 percent of snaps last week. The lack of targets/production don’t concern us too much given the weather conditions, and against a Falcons’ defense that was carved up by Michael Thomas and Jarvis Landry in Week 1, we think both Deebo Samuel and Aiyuk can eat this week. Of course, Aiyuk has burned fantasy owners in the past, so a more conservative ranking until Trey Lance and him show they have a connection is understandable. TRY DRAFT SHARKS FREE: Dominate with exclusive tools, including Free-Agent Finder & Trade Navigator! Week 2 fantasy TE projections, rankings Spotlight Player: Gerald Everett, Chargers @ Chiefs (SN PPR Ranking: 18 | DS PPR Ranking: 12) Draft Sharks’ aggressiveness with Everett is probably warranted given Keenan Allen’s hamstring injury, but we don’t think he’s quite “proven” enough to merit a top-12 rankings. Of course, as we said last week, there really isn’t that much difference between TE10 and TE20 in a given week, so if Everett is your best tight end option, by all means roll with him. Week 2 fantasy defense projections, rankings Spotlight Team: Indianapolis Colts @ Jaguars (SN Ranking: 4 | DS Ranking: 15) We’re disappointed Indy wasn’t able to do more against Davis Mills and the Texans last week, but it did manage three sacks and a takeaway. With stud LB Shaquille Leonard (back) expected to return this week, the Colts should cause problems for a mistake-prone Trevor Lawrence. D/ST is very unpredictable on a weekly basis, so the Colts could easily finish 15th even if they have a good defensive effort that doesn’t happen to result in (m)any turnovers, but we’re expecting a big bounce back while Draft Sharks’ clearly still needs a little more convincing.

LaLiga Enters The Metaverse Thanks To StadioPlus Deal – Marca https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/laliga-enters-the-metaverse-thanks-to-stadioplus-deal-marca/ LaLiga and StadioPlus, together with Vegas City Limited, have signed a strategic licensing agreement that will see them involved in a joint project in the Decentraland metaverse. StadioPlus are a Spanish company that help the sports industry connect with the Web3 world by providing technology and guidance, while Vegas City Limited specialise in the creation of experiences based on metaverse and blockchain. In an attempt to reach out and interact with new generations around the world, LaLiga has signed a licensing agreement with StadioPlus that will result in LaLiga’s Intellectual and Industrial Property Rights appearing in the Decentraland metaverse. As a result, various LaLiga-themed land parcels will be available within the Vegas City district, which owns Decentraland’s largest sports, gaming and entertainment zones. “StadioPlus is on a mission to be the bridge between the sports industry and the future,” said StadioPlus CEO and Co-Founder Jon Fatelevich. “Therefore, we are delighted to have reached this agreement with LaLiga, with whom we have been working together for many months on the development and integration of the competition in Decentraland, and we are confident that we will provide a great experience for football fans and Web3 fans alike.” The Decentraland metaverse is constantly evolving thanks to its blockchain ecosystem, with the world of sports and entertainment now part of it. Its goal is to create a decentralised and open virtual world where users can experience things just as they do in the physical world. “For LaLiga it is essential to continue innovating in ways to offer the best of the competition to our fans, both on and off the pitch,” said LaLiga Head of Franchises and Licensing, Stephen Ibbotson. “This licensing agreement will allow us to reach a new and significant audience, like that of Decentraland.”

Deal Alert: Save Big On Garmin During Its Birthday Sale – Autoweek.com https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/deal-alert-save-big-on-garmin-during-its-birthday-sale-autoweek-com/ For some of us, the brand ‘Garmin’ represents the leader in automotive GPS devices, a distinction they have earned over the years. What you might not know is Garmin makes all kinds of cool gadgets. These range from fitness watches, to fish-finders, and even bike trainers! Thankfully for us, Garmin is celebrating with its Birthday Sale now through September 18th. What does this mean? Just a site-wide sale—with some of the top products slashed down hundreds of dollars. We’ve combed through Garmin’s Birthday Sale listings and picked out some of our favorites: Garmin Drive 52 5-inch screen might be hard to see for some Garmin DriveTrack 71 In-vehicle dog tracker when paired with Garmin GPS dog system TOPO maps available for US and southern Canada TOPO maps sold separately STRIKER Cast GPS 200-foot castable range Pairs with free app for viewing on Android or Apple devices Don’t drop your phone in the water! Forerunner® 735XT Wrist-based heart rate monitor Ideal for athletes Face pixelation seems noticable And these are just a few products—Garmin has even more discounted on their site. They’re also offering free ground shipping for orders $25 and up. With the holidays sneaking around the corner, this might be a great time to pick up a GPS for an easily lost friend, a fish-finder for your family fisherman, or just treat yourself to a new smart watch. Whatever the case may be, just know you’ll be saving some nice cash. As we all know, birthdays don’t last forever—and it’s true in Garmin’s case too. These deals will only be live until Sunday, September 18, so you’ll want to scoop them up quick. For deals with these kinds of discounts, you don’t want to pass them up. 41 Cool Car Accessories You Didn’t Know You Needed Collin Morgan Collin Morgan is the Assistant Commerce Editor at Hearst Autos, where he presents the best gear for your automotive endeavors.

Norway Experiments With An ETH-Based CBDC While Russia Looks To Clarify Crypto Regulations – Kitco NEWS https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/norway-experiments-with-an-eth-based-cbdc-while-russia-looks-to-clarify-crypto-regulations-kitco-news/ Editor’s Note: With so much market volatility, stay on top of daily news! Get caught up in minutes with our speedy summary of today’s must-read news and expert opinions. Sign up here! (Kitco News) – The central bank of Norway has released the open source code for the country’s new central bank digital currency (CBDC) sandbox, and curiously to some, the nation’s new CBDC prototype infrastructure is based on Ethereum technology. The sandbox is now publicly available on GitHub and is designed to “allow for the testing of basic token management use cases, including minting, burning and transferring ERC-20 tokens,” according to a blog post from the Norges Bank’s official CBDC partner Nahmii. Along with deploying the appropriate smart contracts and access controls, the Norges Bank sandbox also includes a custom frontend and network monitoring tools like BlockScout and Grafana. The frontend, designed to offer a clear and intuitive interface for interacting with the test network, also “shows a filterable summary of transactions on the network,” according to Nahmii.  Nahmii noted that the current version of the code does not support the major Ethereum wallet MetaMask, by design, and is “only accessible by users with appropriate credentials,” meaning that “Transactions on the test network are therefore private.” Norges Bank officially announced its plans to conduct CBDC tests in April 2021 and indicated that it expected to find a preferred solution by trialing different designs over the next two years.  A working paper issued by the bank in November 2021 identified several possible CBDC designs, including those based on the Ethereum, Bitcoin and Bitcoin SV blockchains.  Leading financial institutions back the launch of a new digital asset exchange Russia looks to establish crypto regulations by years end The new week has brought yet another crypto-related announcement out of Russia, as Tuesday saw Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin officially order the government to come to a consensus regarding cryptocurrency regulation in the country by Dec. 19. Mishustin directly called on the Duma and other state authorities to create a coordinated policy on regulating the issuance and circulation of digital currencies within the country and to finalize regulations for crypto mining and cross-border transactions in digital currencies.  Importantly, the prime minister emphasized that the regulations need to be aligned with the Bank of Russia, the Russian Finance Ministry, Anti-Money Laundering authority Rosfinmonitoring, the Federal Tax Service and the Federal Security Service. This is the latest significant crypto-related development to come out of Russia and follows last week’s revelation that the Bank of Russia agreed with the finance ministry to legalize cryptocurrency for cross-border payments.  Russia’s Finance Ministry also recently revealed that it has begun working with governments of “friendly” nations to create a cross-border stablecoin-based payment platform. Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.

US Christians Could Drop As Secularism Rises, Pew Research Center Finds – The Washington Post https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/us-christians-could-drop-as-secularism-rises-pew-research-center-finds-the-washington-post/ The United States has long prided itself on people’s freedom to choose whatever religion they like. The majority has long chosen Christianity. By 2070, that may no longer be the case, according to the Pew Research Center. If current trends continue, Christians could make up less than half of the population — and as little as a third — in 50 years. Meanwhile, the religiously unaffiliated — or “nones” — could make up close to half the population. And the percentage of Americans who identify as Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists and adherents of other non-Christian faiths could double. Those are among the major findings of a new report from Pew regarding the United States’ religious future, a future in which Christianity, though diminished, persists, while non-Christian faiths grow amid rising secularization. Researchers projected possible religious futures for the United States using a number of factors, including birthrates, migration patterns, demographics including age and sex, and the current religious landscape. They also looked at how religion is passed from one generation to another and how often people switch religions — in particular Christians who become nones, a number that has been increasing in recent years. Researchers projected four different scenarios, based on differing rates of religious switching, from a continued increase to no switching at all. The unaffiliated were projected to grow under all four. Currently, about a third (31 percent) of Christians become disaffiliated before they turn 30, according to Pew Research. Twenty-one percent of nones become Christian as young adults. Should those switching rates remain stable, Christians would make up 46 percent of the population by 2070, while nones would comprise 41 percent. If disaffiliation rates continue to grow but are capped at 50 percent of Christians leaving the faith, 39 percent of Americans are projected to be Christian by 2070, with 48 percent of Americans identifying as nones. With no limit placed on the percentage of people leaving Christianity and with continued growth in disaffiliation, Christians would be 35 percent of the population, with nones making up a majority of Americans (52 percent). If all switching came to a halt, Christians would remain a slight majority (54 percent), and nones would make up 34 percent of Americans, according to the model. Non-Christian faiths would rise to 12 to 13 percent of the population, largely because of migration, in each scenario. Migration does affect the percentage of Christians, as most migrants to the United States are Christians, said Conrad Hackett, associate director of research and senior demographer at Pew Research Center. “Still the greatest amount of change in the U.S., we think currently and in the future, will come from switching,” he said. Researchers stressed that the report contained projections that are based on data and mathematical models, and are not predictions of the future. “Though some scenarios are more plausible than others, the future is uncertain, and it is possible for the religious composition of the United States in 2070 to fall outside the ranges projected,” they wrote. One reason for the decline in the proportion of Christians and the growth among the nones in the models is age. While Christians have more children than nones, they also skew older. Pew estimates that the average Christian in the United States is 43, which is 10 years older than the average none. “The unaffiliated are having and raising unaffiliated children while Christians are more likely to be near the end of their lives than others,” Stephanie Kramer, a senior researcher at Pew, wrote in an email. Using mathematical models, Pew also has projected the future of religion around the world. Those models were adapted for different regions, Hackett said. Muslims, for example, tend to have the youngest population and the highest fertility rates, he said, driving the growth of that faith. But in the Persian Gulf states, migration has brought many Christians from other countries to the region as temporary workers. The current report takes advantage of the amount of data collected about the U.S. religious landscape. Researchers also looked at intergenerational transmission for the first time, Kramer said. “The variables we use to study that were: What is the mother’s religion? And what is the teen’s religion?” she said. “If that was a match, we consider the mother’s religion transmitted.” Researchers also looked at a relatively new trend of disaffiliation among older Americans. Sociologists have long focused on younger people, who are most likely to switch religions. But in the United States and other countries, older people are starting to switch at growing rates themselves. “It’s not as large-scale, but it’s still significant,” Hackett said. “And it’s contributing to the religious change that we have experienced and that we expect to experience in the years ahead.” Hackett said that the projections for the country do not show the end of Christianity or of religion in general, which he expects to remain robust. And most nones, while claiming no religion, do not identify as atheists. Instead, Kramer said, the United States appears to be going through a pattern of secularization that has happened in other countries, though “we may be a bit behind.” Other factors outside the model — such as changing immigration patterns and religious innovation — could lead to a revival of Christianity in the United States, according to the report. But none of its models shows a reversal of the decline of Christian affiliation, which dropped from 78 percent in 2007 to 63 percent in 2020, according to Pew research. In the report, researchers note that “there is no data on which to model a sudden or gradual revival of Christianity (or of religion in general) in the U.S.” “That does not mean a religious revival is impossible,” they wrote. “It means there is no demographic basis on which to project one.” — Religion News Service

‘Foreign Agents’ Went Undetected Till Flagged By Someone Outside: Zatko – The Indian Express https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/foreign-agents-went-undetected-till-flagged-by-someone-outside-zatko-the-indian-express/ Twitter’s lack of internal security controls meant that the social media company could not track employees who may have been acting as government agents due to inadequate logging activity, Twitter ex-security lead turned whistleblower Peiter Zatko said. He had previously claimed that he believed “with high confidence” that the Indian government had placed its agents within the company. During a hearing at the US Senate Judiciary Committee Tuesday night, Zatko also said that Twitter had a Chinese agent working for the country’s Ministry of State Security on its payroll. “Other than the person who I believe with high confidence, to be a foreign agent placed in a position from India, it was only going to be from an outside agency or somebody alerting Twitter that somebody already existed that they would find the person,” Zatko said responding to a question by Senator Dianne Feinstein. He said that when Twitter learnt of a person inside acting on behalf of a foreign interest as a government agent, “it was extremely difficult to track the people”. “There was a lack of logging and an ability to see what they were doing, what information was being accessed, let alone set steps for remediation and possible reconstitution of any damage,” Zatko told the Committee. His deposition comes less than a month after Zatko filed an whistleblower complaint with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) where he had claimed that the Indian government “forced” the social media company to hire one or more individuals who were “government agents” and had unsupervised access to vast amounts of the platform’s user data, among other things. In August, a former Twitter employee was also found guilty of spying for the Saudi government and handing over user data of suspected dissidents. During Tuesday’s hearing that lasted for more than two hours, another senator asked Zatko how having an agent could possibly help that government. In a potential reference to India, Zatko said that an agent could get access to people’s phone numbers and email addresses and could potentially know about people and their networks that might have been involved in the farmers protest, for instance. He said among the data Twitter collects includes: a user’s phone number, the current and past IP addresses that the user is connecting from, current and past email addresses, and the person’s approximate location based on IP addresses, among other things. Aside from collecting this wide trove of data, Zatko claimed that Twitter had access to data of users who have quit the platform since it did not delete their accounts, but merely deactivated them. Twitter did not respond to an immediate request for comment. Following Zatko’s revelations, Twitter officials in India were summoned by the Shashi Tharoor-led Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology last month.

Effect Of Climate Change On Recreational Travel And Outdoor Activities – PR Web https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/effect-of-climate-change-on-recreational-travel-and-outdoor-activities-pr-web/ Most people enjoy recreational activities during summer, it is essential to protect yourself and your loved ones when exposed to the sun, always wear sun protective swimwear when on the beach or engaging in outdoor activities. SHERIDAN, Wy. (PRWEB) September 13, 2022 It’s no secret that climate change is real, and its effects are being felt worldwide. One of the most visible manifestations is the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, such as heat waves, droughts, and hurricanes. Research suggests that the number of such events has doubled since 1980. This has led many people to reconsider their travel plans, opting instead for shorter stays closer to home or in destinations that are perceived to be safer. The Force of Nature In addition to extreme weather events, climate change’s consequences are natural disasters such as floods and wildfires. These, too, have been on the rise in recent years, with devastating consequences for local communities and holidaymakers alike. In 2018 much of Europe was affected by prolonged periods of heavy rain, which led to widespread flooding. This not only caused damage to infrastructure but also discouraged many people from traveling. Similarly, an increase in wildfires has significantly impacted recreational travel in North America. In 2017, for example, significant wildfires swept through California, evacuating over 20,000 people and destroying thousands of homes and businesses. This significantly impacted tourism in the state, with many travelers canceling or postponing their trips out of safety concerns. What Can be Done Reduce the Impact of Climate Change While Traveling? One way is to choose environmentally friendly transportation options whenever possible. This includes walking, biking, and taking public transit instead of driving or flying. Travelers can also offset their carbon emissions by staying in eco-friendly accommodations and eating locally sourced food. When traveling, it is also essential to be respectful of local cultures and ecosystems. This means not littering and avoiding activities that could damage fragile environments. By taking these steps, travelers can help minimize their impact on the planet and play a role in combating climate change. What Travelers Can Do if Extreme Weather Conditions Disrupt Their Vacation? Most people look forward to their vacations as a time to relax and enjoy themselves. However, extreme weather conditions can sometimes disrupt even the best-laid plans. Travelers stuck in a location due to a hurricane, tornado, or another severe weather event, can do a few things to make the best of the situation. First, they should stay informed about the latest weather conditions and advisories from local authorities. This will help them plan for changing conditions and ensure they are aware of evacuation orders. Second, they should stock up on essential supplies, such as food, water, and first aid supplies. Staying in accommodations in a safe location with access to basic amenities would also ensure tourists are better prepared should the worst happen. Staying Safe During Recreational Activities As the effects of climate change continue to be felt around the world, we will likely see even more changes in recreational travel patterns in the years to come. With extreme weather events becoming more common and natural disasters on the rise, holidaymakers will likely continue to opt for shorter stays close to home or in destinations that are perceived to be safer or experience less severe weather conditions. Most people enjoy recreational activities during summer, it is essential to protect yourself and your loved ones when exposed to the sun, always wear sun protective swimwear when on the beach, such as Full Body UV Swimsuits, Stinger suits, Sunsuits and Dive Skins, these are light weight swim bodysuits that protect against the sun UVA and UVB radiation, also protect against Jellyfish stingers, sea lice and sandflies. Share article on social media or email: %

What Do Plant-Based Foods Consumers Want? – Food Business News https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/what-do-plant-based-foods-consumers-want-food-business-news/ NEW YORK — This year’s Plant Based World Expo, held Sept. 8-9 in New York, showcased the challenges facing manufacturers. Many of the conversations during several presentations focused on the simple fact that taste reigns when it comes to plant-based meat and dairy alternatives, and that over processing, complicated labels, a lack of adequate nutrition — particularly around quality protein content — and not enough variety are all deterrents to purchase. “Plant based,” as defined by market research firm SPINS, Chicago, refers to vegan alternatives to animal-based products. And while there were many such concepts on the exhibition floor at this year’s show, there were also numerous inherently plant-based products benefiting from the movement, everything from nut butters to vegetable oils to grain-based snacks. Missing were many of the big-name plant-based meat and dairy players, as well as the more than a dozen processors that showcased plant-based versions of chicken nuggets at the 2021 expo. This observation was noted by speakers such as Meghan Barton, director of frozen for Kroger, Cincinnati, who said, “Duplication among brands is something to be mindful of.” Rather than duplicates, the plant-based consumer, which currently is mostly flexitarians who also eat animal products, is looking for variety. Kate Holmstrom, director-business acceleration consulting for 84.51, Kroger’s research business unit, said consumers don’t want to be bored with more plant-based options of the same product. She also said Kroger’s research showed shoppers who have increased their purchase of plant-based foods have not eliminated animal-based products. It’s mostly incremental growth for the stores. Ms. Barton explained that plant-based milks are here to stay. They are part of every retailer’s lineup and “are a point of entry for consumers into plant-based eating.” She also said that over time, with improvements in plant-based meats, she expects sales growth will mirror plant-based milks. The expectation is plant-based meat sales will come in the form of prepared foods, where a plant-based protein substitute for the ground beef in lasagna, the chicken strips in alfredo and the pork cubes in teriyaki. Further, the prepared products may not be vegan. Real dairy cheese, for example, may be part of the formulation.    Rodd Willis, director of natural and specialty for Dot Foods, Mount Sterling, Ill., said if he was an innovator wanting to get into the plant-based space, he would do it in frozen, convenience meals. Ms. Barton concurred, adding that she would like to see more vegetable-forward options. “I want to see the vegetables,” she said.   While an abundance of plant-based chicken nuggets may have been missing from the expo floor, the presence of luncheon-style plant-based meats was apparent. Better Foods, Sacramento, Calif., introduced its Better Meat brand of plant-based meats, which included a sliceable canned version of SPAM. The brand also has a range of plant-based cold cuts formulated to mimic everything from bologna to ham, as well as meat-type balls and patties. Like SPAM, the canned luncheon meat product is fully cooked and shelf stable. New York-based Mighty Yum made its debut at the expo. Created by two health and fitness entrepreneurs inspired to transform how families eat on the go, Mighty Yum is the vegan form of kids’ lunch kits. Varieties include plant-based versions of turkey and cheese, ham and cheese, and pepperoni pizza.   Crepini, Brooklyn, NY, exhibited its new no-carbohydrate eggless wrap. Crepini partnered with JUST Egg, a plant-based egg alternative that contains no cholesterol and 5 grams of plant-based protein per serving, to make an eggless wrap that is vegan, low in calories and rich in protein, as well as sustainably produced. “Since our inception here at Crepini, we’ve been looking for ways to disrupt the carb-free category with keto-friendly options that aren’t only easy to eat anywhere but are delicious and versatile for every meal,” said Paula Rimer, founder. “With the launch of our first eggless wrap, we’ve innovated a way to make eating well easy for people of all different dietary preferences, from gluten-free to keto to vegan.” Numerous processors from abroad, namely from the United Kingdom, where vegan lifestyles are much more prevalent than in the United States, trekked across the pond for the expo. One such company, Planet Organic Ltd., London, sampled its Fable brand of meat substitutes. Made predominantly from shiitake mushrooms, the product has a slow-cooked beef-like meaty texture and umami flavor. It comes in patty and pulled formats with a simple ingredient statement that includes coconut oil, soy protein isolate and tapioca flour.

Best Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar Replacement Bands – Android Central https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/best-garmin-forerunner-955-solar-replacement-bands-android-central/ As a premium running watch, the Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar is one you’ll probably be wearing 24/7 to track not only your runs but other activities as well, including sleep. With up to 20 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and features like built-in, multi-band GPS, and solar charging capabilities from the sun, it’s even more appealing to use this smartwatch as your handy on-wrist companion. This means finding a comfortable band for it. The watch itself comes with a 22mm QuickFit silicone strap that will do just fine. But if you need a replacement or want something flashier, we have rounded up the best Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar replacement bands you can find. Here are our picks for the best Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar replacement bands (opens in new tab) Garmin QuickFit 22 Watch Band Top pick  As always, your best bet when opting for a replacement band is to go straight to the source. In this case, any QuickFit 22mm watch band from Garmin will do the trick. This one in Chestnut leather is elegant and sleek, making it the perfect option when you want something dressier for the watch. But there are a variety of other material and color options, too, including silicone and metal, so take your pick of the litter. (opens in new tab) Simple and sporty  Available in a variety of colors, this band is affordable, sporty, lightweight, and breathable. Made of soft silicone with a metal stainless steel quick fit adapter on both ends, it’s easy to put on and take off. It even comes with two mini screwdrivers that are handy to keep in your tool kit for other purposes as well. (opens in new tab) Rainbow of colors  Why settle for just one replacement band when you can get four? This set comes in two color combination options: lighter, pastel colors, or darker, more refined finishes. Made of silicone, they are soft, breathable, and lightweight as well as sweat- and water-resistant. The set comes backed by a 12-month warranty for a full refund or replacement, without return. So you can be confident of the quality. (opens in new tab) Abanen Camo Silicone Watch Band Go camo  Camo is a popular design these days, and you can sport it on your wrist with this camouflage-inspired band in either black/grey or khaki. The non-allergenic silicone means you won’t feel any irritation on the skin: even the metal clasp is made of hypoallergenic, nickel-free stainless steel. (opens in new tab) Affordable quality  You won’t find a more affordable option than this band, which is sporty in design and made of durable and flexible silicone, like the others. Wear it virtually anywhere, including in the rain, shower, or swimming. Ventilation holes help keep you feeling dry and your skin free from irritation. While basic black is an excellent option for a standard replacement, the price is low enough to make it desirable to grab a second one in a funkier color for those times when you want to make a statement. (opens in new tab) Two-toned  The two-toned color of these replacement bands are really unique, featuring combinations like black/navy and blue/white. The set, in fact, comes with three replacement bands along with two screwdrivers. Setting these apart is the neat double button folding clasp that prevents it from loosening on your wrist. (opens in new tab) Go orange  Orange isn’t a common band color for smartwatches, but it’s a cool one that will stand out. And this highly rated one from ISABAKE is a good option to consider. While other color options are available if preferred, the orange really stands out as unique. It comes with two screws and a classic buckle design. Back to the top ^ Which is the best Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar replacement band? The great thing about Garmin smartwatches is that many use the same interchangeable Quick Release band design, often in the 22mm width. This means you have a wide range of replacement bands from which to choose for different models, including the Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar as well as models like the Garmin Forerunner 945 that we named among the best running watches.   When it comes to this premium running smartwatch, the best Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar replacement band is the official one from Garmin, which you can get in a variety of colors and materials, including standard silicone or upgrade to leather or metal. You’ll pay a premium, but you can also be assured of quality and fit.  If you want to save some money, though, you can consider third-party bands designed to fit Garmin smartwatches like this one. Which one you choose will really depend on why you’re buying it. If you’re replacing the original band because it broke or you don’t like the style or fit, you might want to go with something simple like a basic silicone band in black or white to closely match the two finishes the watch original comes in.   But if you are looking for something bolder, there are plenty of other options with different colors, including multi-packs like the ones from BabyValley or cool camo like the one from Abanen. Christine Persaud is a freelance writer for Android Central who has been writing about tech since long before the smartphone was even a “thing.” When she isn’t writing, she’s probably working on her latest fitness program, binging a new (or old) TV series, tinkering with tech gadgets, or spending time with her school-aged son. A self-professed TV nerd, lover of red wine, and passionate home cook, she’s immersed in tech in every facet of her life. Follow her at @christineTechCA.

Cryptoverse: Ether Snaps At Bitcoin’s Heels In Race For Crypto Crown – Reuters https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/cryptoverse-ether-snaps-at-bitcoins-heels-in-race-for-crypto-crown-reuters/ Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Sept 13 (Reuters) – For years, ether could barely dream of challenging its big brother bitcoin. Now, its ambitions may be becoming more realistic. The second-biggest cryptocurrency is taking market share from bitcoin ahead of an all-important “Merge” software upgrade that could sharply reduce the energy usage of its Ethereum blockchain, should the developers pull it off in coming days. Bitcoin’s dominance, or its share of the crypto market’s market value, has slipped to 39.1% from this year’s peak of 47.5% in mid-June, according to data platform CoinMarketCap. Ether, on the other hand, has climbed to 20.5% from 16%. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com The upstart is still a long way from overtaking bitcoin as the No.1 cryptocurrency, a reversal known to aficionados as “the flippening”. It’s made up ground, though; in January 2021, bitcoin reigned supreme at 72%, while ether occupied a slender 10%. As for price, one ether is now worth 0.082 bitcoin , near December 2021 highs and sharply above the 2022 low of 0.049 in June. “People are now viewing Ethereum as essentially a safe asset because they’ve seen the success of the network, they think it’s not going anywhere,” said Joseph Edwards, head of financial strategy at fund management firm Solrise Finance. “There’s a permanency to how Ethereum is perceived in the crypto ecosystem.” Reuters Graphics CAPRICIOUS CRYPTO Souvenir tokens representing cryptocurrency Bitcoin and the Ethereum network, with its native token ether, plunge into water in this illustration taken May 17, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration The Merge, expected to take place on Thursday after several delays, could lead to wider use of the blockchain, potentially boosting ether’s price – although nothing is certain in a capricious crypto market. read more Ethereum forms the backbone of much of the “Web3” vision of an internet where crypto takes centre stage, powering applications involving crypto offshoots such as decentralised finance and non-fungible tokens – although this much-hyped dream is still unrealised. Bitcoin and ether have both nearly halved this year on concerns about supersized interest rate hikes from central banks. Nonetheless, investors seem to like the look of the Merge, with ether up over 65% since the end of June. Bitcoin has barely budged in the same period. “We’re going to see (ether’s) attractiveness to some investors who are concerned about energy consumption,” said Doug Schwenk, CEO of Digital Asset Research, although he cautioned that ether was still a long way behind bitcoin. THE KING IS STRONG The diminishing bitcoin dominance in crypto’s current bear market is a departure from previous market cycles when investors sold lesser tokens – “altcoins” – in favor of the more liquid and reliable bitcoin. Dethroning the king is no easy feat, though. Bitcoin is still by far the most well-known cryptocurrency. Mainstream investors who have dipped their toes in the crypto market since 2020 have tended to turn first to bitcoin, as the most liquid and widely-traded token. Its market cap of $427 billion is still more than double Ether’s $210 billion, and market participants firmly believe the original digital coin remains the gold standard in crypto due to its limited supply. Some market players say bitcoin’s grip on the crypto crown is still strong, even if it has to accept other contenders. For example, Hugo Xavier, CEO of K2 Trading Partners, said its dominance could improve to 50%-60% range if the crypto market turns bullish but it is unlikely to touch 70% again. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Medha Singh and Lisa Pauline Mattackal in Bengaluru; Editing by Tom Wilson and Pravin Char Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. Opinions expressed are those of the author. They do not reflect the views of Reuters News, which, under the Trust Principles, is committed to integrity, independence, and freedom from bias.

U.S. Signs Deal With Google To Develop Chips For Researchers – Reuters https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/u-s-signs-deal-with-google-to-develop-chips-for-researchers-reuters/ The logo for Google LLC is seen at the Google Store Chelsea in Manhattan, New York City, U.S., November 17, 2021. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com WASHINGTON, Sept 13 (Reuters) – The U.S. Commerce Department said it reached a cooperative research and development agreement with Alphabet Inc’s (GOOGL.O) Google to produce chips that researchers can use to develop new nanotechnology and semiconductor devices. The deal was signed between the Commerce Department’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and Google. The chips will be manufactured by semiconductor company SkyWater Technology (SKYT.O) at its Bloomington, Minnesota, semiconductor foundry, the department said on Tuesday. Google will pay the initial cost of setting up production and will subsidize the first production run, according to the agreement. NIST, with university research partners, will design the circuitry for the chips. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com The Biden administration’s Chips and Science Act was recently passed by Congress and signed into law. It authorizes funding aimed at jump-starting the domestic production of semiconductors in response to supply-chain disruptions. A string of companies have announced new semiconductor plants resulting from passage of the legislation, which authorized about $52 billion in government subsidies for U.S. semiconductor production and research, and an investment tax credit for chip plants estimated to be worth $24 billion. “NIST anticipates designing as many as 40 different chips optimized for different applications. Because the chip designs will be open source, researchers will be able to pursue new ideas without restriction and share data and device designs freely,” the Commerce Department said in a statement. Research partners contributing to the chip designs include the University of Michigan, the University of Maryland, George Washington University, Brown University and Carnegie Mellon University, the statement added. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington Editing by Matthew Lewis Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

Best Of Gen Con 2022 – GAMING TREND – Gaming Trend https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/best-of-gen-con-2022-gaming-trend-gaming-trend/ There’s a reason why they call Gen Con “the best four days in gaming”, and while last year could be called subdued, this year the event came back roaring! We saw a lot of cool stuff, and subsequently this is our biggest Best of Gen Con list to date, but it still doesn’t do justice to the weekend as a whole. In no particular order, we present our Best of Gen Con award winners: Best little expansion– Ark Nova map pack 1 We loved Ark Nova here at Gaming Trend, and when Capstone Games announced a new set of player board maps just the week before Gen Con, we made it a point to hit their booth as soon as we could on Thursday. Map pack 1 contains two new asymmetrical advanced maps to build your zoos on with interesting new mechanics. The geographical zoo rewards placing animals from specific continents in matching areas, and the rescue station lets players essentially add animals to their zoo for free without using an enclosure or gaining appeal. This should tide us over until that aquariums expansion comes out… A tease of Cities Untold with Dwarven Forge⏤Gen Con 2022 Best gaming terrain– Dwarven Forge This is not the first time we’ve awarded Dwarven Forge with a Best of Gen Con award, and if the quality of their work continues to get better every year it probably won’t be the last! These mighty masters of Dwarvenite had plenty to show off this time, with a massive build comprised of pieces from their last several campaigns, several glorious pieces from the Dice Reliquaries set, and of course, hyping up their upcoming Kickstarter campaign, Cities Untold! Truly, the legos of the gaming world, Dwarven Forge continues to bring lovingly sculpted and hand-painted awesomeness to every table it has the fortune to placed on! Gen Con 2022 preview⏤We demo one of the biggest hits of Con season, Cat In The Box Best game likely to cause quantum paradoxes– Cat in the Box Ellis: Cat in the box is a wondrous little game. Bézier Games managed to take the classic trick-taking template and flip it on its head, then around, then sideways, then into barrel roll through the 8th dimension and back again through a wormhole, and it’s somehow still easy to learn. Like every trick-taking game, players must follow suit, suits being blue, green, yellow, and red. Red is trump. Here’s the catch, every card in Cat in the Box is black. Players decide what color their card is when they play it. Once a blue 3 has been played, no one else can play a blue 3 for the rest of the round. Before playing, a player can decide they no longer have any cards in their hand of the matching color, say yellow, and play a different color. Upon doing so, that player cannot claim a card they play to be yellow for the rest of the round. At any point if a player cannot play any card from their hand, a paradox is created, the universe implodes, and the round immediately ends. Points are scored and a new round begins. And that’s mostly it! I think Cat in the Box speaks for itself. What a spectacular idea. Check out our full preview here. Best deduction game– Turing Machine Many deduction games offer unique puzzles and Turing Machine by Scorpion Masqué is no exception. In Turing Machine players will take on the challenge of a unique puzzle by attempting to figure out a specific three digit code that corresponds to the specific puzzle. To find this three digit code, players must hypothesize a code to deduce which numbers from one through five, of each color, are the correct numbers for the three digit code. There is only one number of each color(or shape for those that are colorblind) that is correct and forms the three digit code. Players begin with their first hypothesis of numbers that will allow them to answer any of the questions available to them via the specific scenario. These answers will allow players to deduce further information and thus be able to find out the correct code for the scenario. Questions can ask things like “are there more odds than evens in the code.” In this case, if the hypothesized code has 2-3 odds and this question’s answer card is checked, it will show either a green checkmark or red x. These two answers will inform you that based on your hypothesis that yes the correct code has more odds than evens, or no it has less odds than evens. By asking up to three questions in a round players have the chance to deduce the code and the one to do so first is the winner of the game. Turing Machine has immense replayability, and can be incredibly fun, and for anyone who likes any sort of logic puzzles or games will enjoy this. Check out our full preview here. Best card game– SolForge: Fusion SolForge: Fusion has been ramping up for a while now and getting ready to realize its high aspirations and setting its sights on the TCG corner of the gaming industry. With that goal in sight Fusion has reached for the stars, and provided a unique, highly customizable, and insanely fun hybrid card game. In this way SolForge: Fusion has an ever changing tournament story narrative that will change as the game evolves. Justin Gary and Stoneblade Entertainment made available the very first alpha sets to the public at this year’s Gen Con, effectively launching the physical product to the public and getting decks in the hands of players who didn’t catch the Kickstarter a couple of years ago for the first time. Expect to hear more about this game as it starts to hit LGS’ everywhere, and keep an eye on Gaming Trend for a full review soon! Gen Con 2022 preview⏤Harrow County looks to be another fantastic comic adaptation from Off The Page Best upcoming Kickstarter– Harrow County Ellis: Harrow County from Off the Page Games, the publishers of Mind MGMT, is a 1v1 asymmetric strategy game with twists, turns, cube dropping, and even the possibility of a third player entering the battle. The winner is the first to reach seven points. Objectives vary based on each faction, such as rescuing villagers or destroying houses, but each rescue/destruction earns two points. Killing an enemy minion called a ‘haint’ in battle earns a point and ending the round with a character or haint on the center tile earns the respective player one point as well. Each round involves three turns but each player has four actions to choose from, no repeats. Every decision I made felt immensely important, especially because my opponent was so tough! Horror County has yet to launch on Kickstarter but the demo I played looked and felt polished and played like a finished game. I can’t wait to see the full fledged thing and it might just be my favorite two player board game. Check out our full preview here Best game that improves on ideas from another game– Evergreen Nick: I really wanted to like Photosynthesis, Blue Orange’s game of trees harvesting light and casting shadow on others, but there just wasn’t quite enough -game- there for me. Enter Horrible Guild’s Evergreen, which takes the entirety of Photosynthesis and makes it just one of the four ways that players score points.. Players are planting and creating lakes on their personal boards, interacting only through biome card drafting which simultaneously determines which biome you’ll be performing your actions in and adds a multiplier for large trees in a biome in the end game. Expect to hear more about Evergreen once it hits more tables later this year, and check out our full preview here. Is this digital tabletop the “Last Game Board”? ⏤ Gen Con 2022 preview Best new tech in tabletop gaming– GameBoard We like to keep a sharp eye on the convergence between analog and digital experiences here at Gaming Trend, and GameBoard looks to set a new bar when it comes to adding a screen to your tabletop experience. With everything from support for multiple VTTs to support role-playing game experiences, to full-blown digital versions of board and card games that actually get rated on Board Game Geek, GameBoard doesn’t just aim to recreate experiences digitally, it seeks to -enhance- them. Add special bases to physical minis and watch the fog of war change on your maps to match the field of view. Got a hand of cards in a digital game that only you can see? Use your other hand as a ‘blade’ on the screen and your cards are revealed but only to you. Throw in remote play and tiling of screens and you’ve got the most versatile digital tabletop experience there is. GameBoard is still in beta but a library of games and VTTs is getting larger by the week. Expected shipping date is December of this year and you can reserve yours at their website. Best game about corporate exploitation of resources– Skymines If colonization of the moon, or an asteroid belt ever received a board game about it then that would definitely be Skymines by Alexander Pfister. In Skymines players take on the roles of private investors, investing in one of four different corporations that are settling the moon or asteroid belt depending on the side of the board you are playing on. As an investor you are trying to earn as many points/crypcoin as possible and ultimately be the best investor. Players will use cards to take actions and have to plan out in advance which cards they are playing in order to buy more cards, earn more crypcoin, earn more shares in companies, place outposts on the board, advance their individual research and helium 3 tracks, and ultimately have the most points at the end of seven rounds. With many different modules, two sides of the main board, a campaign variant, and two sides of five different company tracks that you add to the main board Skymines adds a lot of variability and replayability to an already tried and true game that Skymines is actually a reimplementation of in the game Mombasa. Where Skymines shines and stands out above Mombasa is in everything else that it adds to the game and all of the different pieces...

Skyline Report: NWA Home Prices Rose By 26.8% In First Half Of 2022 – KNWA https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/skyline-report-nwa-home-prices-rose-by-26-8-in-first-half-of-2022-knwa/ SPRINGDALE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — The latest Arvest Bank Skyline Report from September 6 shows that residential and multifamily real estate prices in Northwest Arkansas rose 26.8% in the first half of 2022. That 26.8% figure represents the increase in selling prices of homes listed through MLS compared to one year ago, according to an Arvest press release. The report also pegged the overall vacancy rate for multifamily housing units at 2.3%. According to Mervin Jebaraj, director of the Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) at the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas, the 2.3% overall vacancy rate for apartments is so low as to be “functionally zero”. In CBER’s discussions with multifamily developers, many apartment complexes in Northwest Arkansas now have waiting lists. This is further illustrated when looking closer at the vacancy rates by apartment size, where the most popular units are one-bedrooms with a vacancy rate of 0.8% and two-bedrooms with a rate of 1.0%. Low inventories are also driving up lease rates, which rose 12% from the first half of 2021 and 61.3% since the first half of 2012. The market for residential single-family homes saw an increase in available inventory, with 1,193 homes listed for sale on MLS compared to 642 one year ago, an increase of 85.8%. But this did nothing to slow down the continued increase in home prices, as the average selling price of a home listed on MLS rose from $304,235 to $385,821. From a decade ago, the average selling price has risen 128.4%, far outpacing the national rate of inflation in the last decade of 29.04%. The Northwest Arkansas region is being challenged to provide affordable housing options for the continued increase in population. The pace of new home construction is slowing because of supply chain issues as builders are having difficulty getting new homes completed because of a lack of appliances while some new subdivisions can’t get the approvals they need because they can’t get the transformers needed to provide electricity. Hopefully these are temporary issues that will get resolved soon. However, offering more affordable housing than other desirable metros is a competitive advantage that we are beginning to lose with the pace of price increases. Mervin Jebaraj, director of the Center for Business and Economic Research “This issue will not resolve itself, so I am hoping that the Regional Workforce Council will help by encouraging housing policy coordination between cities in the region,” Jebaraj concluded. “We simply have to increase the amount of housing options for current and new residents if we are to continue growing.” Mark Ryan, Executive Vice President, Loan Manager with Arvest Bank of Benton County, said about the Skyline report, “One of the primary reasons Arvest sponsors the Skyline Report is so that we have a regular, comprehensive view of the overall real estate market. This specific report shows the value of this effort. As the region’s largest real estate lender, our real estate development and mortgage lending teams are ready to provide the insight, guidance and investment capital needed to meet the demand for additional housing.” The Arvest Skyline Report is a biannual analysis of the latest commercial, single-family residential and multifamily residential property markets in Benton and Washington counties. The report is sponsored by Arvest Bank and conducted by CBER.

Justin Kreuter: Reflecting On ‘great’ Summer Vacations – Rochester Post Bulletin https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/justin-kreuter-reflecting-on-great-summer-vacations-rochester-post-bulletin/ Outdoor pools are closed. Children are back in school. Summer vacations are now in the rear view mirror. Let us take a beat to reflect and consider what makes a “great” summer vacation. I suspect that many of us have been taking more staycations in recent years. Can staycations be a “great” summer vacation? My vote is “possibly.” I had an unexpectedly wonderful staycation last year. I am a photography enthusiast and was able to spend most of the staycation exploring Rochester with my camera. In fact, one of my photographs from this time will be featured in the upcoming “Heart of Our City” poetry-photography exhibition, Sept. 22 to Oct. 15 at the Chateau Theater. Hopefully, many of us are beginning to enjoy vacation travel again. I recently returned from a trip to Corsica. I spent this vacation with longtime friends in a small mountain village. I enjoyed spending time sketching with water-soluble pencils, taking long walks around the winding Corsican roads, and making photographs of this new environment with my camera. I also learned a new sport, pétanque. In this game, competitors throw balls towards a target ball and score points based on proximity. These are two very different, but great vacations. I returned to “normal life” feeling refreshed after both. Justin Kreuter in Corsica. Contributed by Justin Kreuter What made these vacations great? My trip to Corsica had detailed plans, whereas my staycation was notable for a lack of plans. My trip to Corsica racked up some serious mileage, whereas my staycation consumed maybe a tank of gas. One common thread is time with my camera making photographs. Without a camera, my Corsica trip might still have been a success; however, a camera seems to be an important part of my “great” vacation recipe. Taking time to reflect like this has helped me to appreciate how much I enjoy vacations when I have a camera at the ready. Fortunately small, I hope this self-knowledge will help me to make the most of future vacations. The airport in Corsica. Justin Kreuter What does a “great” summer vacation look like to you? Are there certain aspects of a vacation that help you to feel refreshed afterwards? I would enjoy hearing your thoughts and reflections about what makes a “great” summer vacation. Thanks in advance for sharing! Justin Kreuter is a pathologist, professional learner and art enthusiast who enjoys corresponding with pen pals through snail mail. The views expressed are his own and do not reflect the views of his employer. Send comments on community columns to Jeff Pieters, jpieters@postbulletin.com. %

Rising Stars In Law – BizTimes Milwaukee https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/rising-stars-in-law-biztimes-milwaukee/ BizTimes Milwaukee presents its inaugural showcase of Rising Stars in Law, highlighting the up-and-coming legal talent practicing at firms in southeastern Wisconsin. The individuals profiled here demonstrate the plethora of young talent in the region. METHODOLOGY: The honorees did not pay to be included. Their profiles were drawn from nomination materials. This list features only individuals for whom nominations were submitted and accepted after a review by our editorial team. To qualify for the list, nominees must be based in southeast Wisconsin. They must be currently serving in a senior level role at their firm, must hold a leadership position in their industry outside of their own organization, have made a significant contribution to advancing workplace equality at their own workplace or beyond, and act as a role model or mentor.

Dylan Dreyer Shares How She Juggles Kids’ Sports Schedules – TODAY https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/dylan-dreyer-shares-how-she-juggles-kids-sports-schedules-today/ Dylan Dreyer has a lot on her plate.  “For 5 1/2 years, we’ve eaten dinner as a family at 5pm every night,” Dylan began an Instagram post on Monday. “Let my life with 3 kids truly begin as Calvin has soccer practice from 4:30-6p.” The TODAY meteorologist noted that she and her sons Oliver, 2, and Rusty, 11 months, would “try to eat on the sidelines,” while supporting 5-year-old Calvin at his practice. “I’m not a big fan of change so we’ll see how this goes!” she added. In her post, Dylan included photos of the chicken and pearl couscous she’d prepared for her husband, Brian Fichera, and their three young children. The meals in storage containers belong to Dylan, Oliver and Rusty. Embrace the change, with three kids that’s your new life for a while. Was for me. Now they are grown so this too shall pass. and I so miss all the running around, believe or or not, especially the sports and the music!” one person wrote in the comments. Added another, “Crock pot/easy skillet meals are super helping in keeping your sanity.” One fan joked, “Wait till they all need to be somewhere different at the same time!” September is off to a busy start for Dylan and her brood. Calvin started first grade last week, while Oliver entered preschool. Meanwhile, Dylan just released her new children’s book about compromise ,titled “Misty the Cloud: Friends Through or Shine.” Dylan told E! News that she and Fichera read to their boys every night before bed.  “I think there’s just so much kids can get out of a book,” she explained “Always make time for it.”  Related Video: Rachel Paula Abrahamson is a lifestyle reporter who writes for the parenting, health and shop verticals. She was previously a senior editor at Us Weekly. Her bylines have appeared in The New York Times, Good Housekeeping, Redbook, and elsewhere. Rachel lives in the Boston area with her husband and their two daughters. Follow her on Instagram.

Virtual Events Market To Touch Valuation Of $432.43 Billion | Metaverse-An Emerging Trend In Virtual Events – GlobeNewswire https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/virtual-events-market-to-touch-valuation-of-432-43-billion-metaverse-an-emerging-trend-in-virtual-events-globenewswire/ Westford, USA, Sept. 13, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The demand for virtual events market is on the rise, as companies look to reduce costs and increase efficiency. Virtual events allow businesses to meet in a virtual setting, saving on costs associated with traveling and hosting events. In addition, virtual events can provide a more engaging experience for attendees. A study by SkyQuest found that 62% of event planners are considering or have already implemented virtual events. The popularity of virtual events is likely due to the cost savings and increased engagement that they afford. Businesses can host virtual events using online platforms like Skype or Zoom, and Google Meets. There are also standalone platforms that allow for more customized experiences, such as VEVO (formerly known as VJVO). The use of virtual events market is on the rise as a hybrid model for event planning and marketing. The main reason for this is that virtual events allow businesses to reach a wider audience more easily and at a lower cost than traditional events. Additionally, many virtual event organizers offer exclusive content and opportunities to participants that are not available at physical events. As a result, virtual events are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional events. Get sample copy of this report: https://skyquestt.com/sample-request/virtual-events-market Though virtual events initially came about as an innovative way to market merchandise or services, they’ve evolved into a versatile tool for gathering information, building relationships and creating new business opportunities. Virtual events market companies offer a variety of services, including webinars, online workshops and mastermind groups. They can also be used for socializing and networking with like-minded people, and for gaining insights about new markets or products. The popularity of virtual events has given rise to several business accelerator programs that focus exclusively on helping entrepreneurs launch successful companies in global virtual events market. Programs like Launch Pad LA help startup entrepreneurs gain access to funding, mentorship and marketing resources in order to make their virtual event company a success. Growing Trend of AR and VR is Aiding the Virtual Events Market Growth Just a few years ago, virtual reality (VR) was mainly known as a subject for gaming and entertainment. But today, the VR market is growing fast, with more and more businesses adopting VR to improve their customer experience in the global virtual events market. As the use of technology continues to grow, so too does the demand for virtual events. Businesses and individuals are increasingly turning to virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to connect with others, engage with customers, and develop new products. VR and AR have the potential to revolutionize many industries, including marketing, sales, customer service, training, and education. One of the key benefits of VR and AR in the virtual events market is that they allow customers to interact with products or services in a way that’s more realistic than traditional displays. This can evoke a sense of excitement and engagement that can help businesses reach their target market. In fact, studies have shown that users are more likely to take action when they feel like they’re interacting with a product or service themselves. In addition to meeting consumer needs, VR and AR can also improve employee productivity. For example, VR can be used to train employees in new skills or procedures. AR in the virtual events market can be used to display instructions or product information in a way that’s easy for people to understand. Furthermore, AR can be used to provide a hands-on experience for customers who want to learn more about a product before making a purchase decision. Browse summary of the report and Complete Table of Contents (ToC): https://skyquestt.com/report/virtual-events-market It’s clear that VR is here to stay and businesses big and small have started incorporating it into their marketing strategies. SkyQuest has identified key impact of AR and VR adoption on global virtual events market and prepared a report. The report provides a detailed market analysis which covers market trends, opportunities, growth dynamics, challenges, threat, top players, their market share, competitive landscape, pricing analysis, among others. Metaverse– An Emerging Trend in Virtual Events Market Metaverse, billed as the “first commercial virtual reality platform,” is quickly becoming a desirable event destination for businesses and individuals. Metaverse’s ability to create highly customizable VR experiences makes it an ideal platform for disseminating information and breaking down traditional barriers of communication. Metaverse has already hosted a number of conferences and events, including the “Smart Enterprise Summit” in Shanghai, China and the “Innovative Solution Awards” in Hong Kong. In September 2022, Meta announced an event for AR and VR on metaverse, which is scheduled to be happen on 11 October 2022. The potential for Metaverse as an event destination is clear in the global virtual events market. Its ability to create immersive experiences that leave participants feeling like they are part of the event make it a perfect fit for events focused on technology, business, and culture. Metaverse’s recent partnership with Oculus puts its platform even more firmly on the market as a premier venue for events. SkyQuest has attributed rising popularity of metaverse in virtual events market to its capabilities to customize their events in a variety of ways, giving them the opportunity to create events that are custom-made for their needs. Events on metaverse can be themed and can have various formats, such as lectures, workshops, and presentations. End-users are increasingly inclined to metaverse as it offers robust options for registration and ticketing, making it easy for attendees to get involved in the event. Finally, the platform provides users with timely feedback and support, making it easy to manage the event outcomes. Metaverse is quickly emerging as a popular choice for businesses and organizations in the virtual events market looking to host successful virtual events. This potential barrier to entry has not deterred businesses from considering metaverse as an event destination; in fact, many organizations have already begun hosting events on the platform. metaverse’s flexible platform, robust options for registration and ticketing, timely feedback and support. Speak to Analyst for your custom requirements: https://skyquestt.com/speak-with-analyst/virtual-events-market Major Players in Global Virtual Events Market Adobe Systems (US) Avaya (US) Cisco Systems (US) Citrix Systems (US) IBM (US) Microsoft (US) 8×8 (US) Mitel Networks (Canada) Alcatel-Lucent (France) Atlassian (AU) BroadSoft (US) COREX (Belgium) Huawei (China) Toshiba (Japan) Ubivent (Germany) Zoom Video Communications (US) Related Reports in SkyQuest’s Library: Global Cyber Security Services Market Global Same Day Delivery Market Global 3D Reconstruction Technology Market Global Cloud Computing Market Global Metaverse Market About Us: SkyQuest Technology is leading growth consulting firm providing market intelligence, commercialization and technology services. It has 450+ happy clients globally. Address: 1 Apache Way, Westford, Massachusetts 01886 Phone: USA (+1) 617-230-0741 Email: sales@skyquestt.com LinkedIn Facebook Twitter

Build 8 Drones Similar To Ukraine’s New Black Hornets – MUO – MakeUseOf https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/build-8-drones-similar-to-ukraines-new-black-hornets-muo-makeuseof/ The Black Hornet is a miniature unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Norway and the UK have donated a bunch of these to Ukraine. They’re so tiny that they can go in and out of the enemy’s territory unnoticed. Want to know the best part? You don’t need to be in the military to get your hands on one of these babies. You can build something similar right from your home. Read on for some more details on Ukraine’s Black Hornets and a collection of similar DIY drones as inspiration for your next project. Ukraine’s New Black Hornet Drones Background Following the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, other European nations have been showing support to help its defense. Norway and Britain most recently jointly offered Ukraine 850 Black Hornet micro-drones as part of a UK-Norway program. With a total value of $9.3 million, the drones are smaller than a sparrow and will easily fit on one’s palm. They are exclusive to the army and are only used by 19 NATO-allied countries for special operations and reconnaissance. The drones will allow Ukraine to keep an eye on Russia’s military activities, enabling it to better equip and prepare its defense. In this guide, we’ll explore a bunch of innovative DIY drones that are similar to Ukraine’s Black Hornets that you can try building. 1. Voice-Controlled Arduino Drone Drones are already cool and super-functional when they are flying. Now picture controlling them via voice commands. Incredibly easy, and futuristic. And you don’t just have to picture it, you can build it using the mini voice-controlled tricopter robot, as shown in this Instructables guide. It’s Arduino-based and maximizes Bluetooth to process voice commands. And as revolutionary as it sounds, it costs about $11. Here are some more Arduino radio projects you can build. 2. LEGO Drone With GoPro Camera Like the Black Hornets, autonomous quadcopter drones are pretty innovative. These unmanned aerial vehicles are AI-powered to be completely autonomous. With a brain of their own, they can take off and land without human intervention, and complete tasks with just a few clicks here and there. And you can build such a drone at home, but even cooler-looking, and fun to make because it has a LEGO twist, as this Instructables guide elaborates. With a camera equipped, you could add this drone to your essential movie making ingredients. 3. Ultra Budget Mini Quad If you are a technophile yearning for a fantastic yet challenging project to make, this awesome mini quad project is for you. Check out the Instructables tutorial for the technical details, and the video above to see it in action. 4. DIY Smart Follow Me Drone With Camera Bored and got a couple of old quadcopters and hexacopters sitting in your old tech stack? Reinvent one into a smart follow-me DIY drone. It’s equipped with an ATmega328 chip and other geeky components listed in the Instructables guide that enable it to discover and process GPS signals from your smartphone. As a result, it can follow you wherever you go, as long as you’ve got your phone. It also has an attached camera, meaning you can now record your videos hands-free. 5. Micro 105 FPV Quadcopter FPV drones might not always be as minute as Ukraine’s Black Hornets, but they are almost on the same level of cool. FPV drones feature a camera attached to the front and are wired to transmit their view to a monitor—or, even better, a pair of goggles. This allows a first-person view of whatever the camera is seeing. Check out and build the homemade version in this Instructables post. 6. 3D Printed Nano Drone Want to build a drone almost similar in size to the Black Hornet? Try making a nano-drone. Nano-drones are micro-sized manned vehicles also developed in Norway. Like Black Hornets, they are made for spying and can be camouflaged, which offers even better undetected surveillance. While we can’t promise a military model, this Instructables guide features all the details you need to build a 3D-printed version. To make this project easy, check out these top frames to 3D print for your DIY drone. 7. Long Range FPV Quadcopter What’s your favorite kind of view? Are you the kind of person who prefers cityscapes and will hike a 1000 ft high as long as you are guaranteed a perfect bird’s-eye view of your favorite city? Or are you more into the natural-side of things and prefer to feast your eyes on scenic beach vistas, or dreamlike mountain panoramas? Whichever category you fall into, building this long-range FPV quadcopter guarantees mystical aerial views of your scenery. If you like this project, you may well want to explore DIY space projects you can build yourself. 8. Ultimate PVC Quadcopter Drones are sophisticated little gadgets which, as proven by the Black Hornet, can spy on forces as feared as the Russian army. Yet, once you fully understand their working concept, you can design one from nearly endless materials, including PVC pipes! Don’t believe it? Check out the YouTube video above to see a PVC quadcopter in action. And you can build one too. Besides the PVC pipes, you will need quite a number of tools as this is a simple, yet quite sophisticated DIY drone. You’ll need components like a PVC cross connector, Lexan sheet, nylon standoffs, and a PVC coupler for the frame. For the power system, you’ll require: A LiPo battery voltage alarm Flight controller Heat shrink tubing Servo wires Bullet connectors You’ll also need a comprehensive set of tools, but the resulting innovative drone will totally be worth the effort. Check out the step-by-step Instructables guide to complete this project easily. Build a Black Hornet-Inspired DIY Drone Today Remember when you were young and the media would constantly project how fantastic the future would be thanks to technology? Well, we are living in that future. It’s not up to its full potential yet, but we are headed in the right direction. We now have body-controlled flying suits and futuristic, sci-fi inspired innovations like the Black Hornet. Have fun building something close to Ukraine’s Black Hornets using the ideas above.

EPayments Loses Battle With UK Regulator, Japanese Police Will Be Able To Seize Crypto + More News – Cryptonews https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/epayments-loses-battle-with-uk-regulator-japanese-police-will-be-able-to-seize-crypto-more-news-cryptonews/ Source: Tim Mossholder/Unsplash Get your daily, bite-sized digest of cryptoasset and blockchain-related news – investigating the stories flying under the radar of today’s crypto news. Business news The British crypto and peer-to-peer digital pay firm ePayments has announced that it will close shop just eight months after it claimed it was ready to “re-open for business.” At the end of December last year, the company wrote that it could not “wait to start serving” its clients again after a “huge investment from our shareholders.” The company has been locked in a struggle with the British financial regulatory Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for the past three years. The FCA claimed that ePayments’ “financial crime controls” were lacking. In an official announcement, ePayments announced that it could “no longer sustain the business to build back to what the FCA requires and a ‘business as usual’ state.” Some claimed on social media that they still had funds locked up in the firm’s platform. Regulation news The UAE’s Abu Dhabi Global Market free economic zone (ADGM)’s regulator – the Financial Services Regulatory Authority – has outlined its regulatory policy for crypto-related businesses who are planning to launch crypto-related services in the zone. The regulator published a set of “Guiding Principles” that underline the ADGM’s commitment to comply with global anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism protocols. The body also remarked that it will ensure that firms in the zone abide by international sanctions. CBDCs news The Linux Foundation-founded Hyperledger Foundation – a collective of blockchain development initiatives – says that the central banks of France and Nigeria have become its newest members. In an official announcement, the foundation claimed that the Banque de France and the Central Bank of Nigeria had joined its fold. The French central bank has previously worked with both Hyperledger and IBM (a major Hyperledger backer) on its own trials for a wholesale central bank digital currency (CBDC). Law enforcement news Japanese police are set to be given new powers to seize cryptoassets – after the policy-making Legislative Council green-lighted proposals from the Ministry of Justice. The justice minister, Yasuhiro Harashi, wants to revise the existing Act on Punishment of Organized Crime to allow officers and bailiffs to confiscate of cryptoassets “obtained as criminal proceeds,” Nikkei reported. Officers will also have the power to seize funds they think have been used in money laundering, provided the country’s parliament rubber-stamps the proposals later this year. Taiwanese police say they have busted a lucrative crypto fraud group, the Epoch Times reported. Officers claimed that the ringleader was a 27-year-old, who has now been placed under custody – and stated that they had made a total of 14 arrests. The gang, police claimed, made use of chat apps like Line, where they claimed to be “investment teachers” who would invest their clients’ funds in crypto for a small fee. However, they appear to have “guided” their “clients” to bogus exchanges that the latter then could not withdraw funds from. Bags of narcotics, bundles of cash, and “six imported luxury cars” were seized from the suspects. Adoption news The Augusto Motta University Centre (UNISUAM), a college based in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro, will launch a post-graduate crypto course – with modules in blockchain, Web3, and the metaverse, Diario do Rio reported. The six-month-long course is officially recognized by the Ministry of Education and UNISUAM was quoted as claiming that the “practical” course would help professionals prepare for a career in the crypto and blockchain sectors.

Flood Mitigation: Actions Needed To Improve Use Of FEMA Property Acquisitions – Government Accountability Office https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/flood-mitigation-actions-needed-to-improve-use-of-fema-property-acquisitions-government-accountability-office/ Fast Facts Removing people and homes from flood-prone areas can save lives and help communities save money on disaster response. The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides funding for communities to buy flood-prone properties from willing owners and convert them to open space. But the acquisition process is lengthy and complex—discouraging some communities and property owners from participating. To address challenges, FEMA is taking some steps to ease the application process. We recommended that FEMA explore options for improving property acquisitions and Congress consider giving FEMA the authority to implement them if needed. The city of Des Plaines, Illinois, received FEMA grants to buy and demolish about 25 homes in a flood-prone neighborhood. Skip to Highlights Highlights What GAO Found The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides funding for communities to purchase flood-prone properties and convert the land to open space. Such property acquisition can be a beneficial strategy for flood mitigation. However, the acquisition process poses challenges that can discourage homeowner and community participation. Benefits. Property acquisition permanently eliminates structures at risk of flooding and can lower disaster response costs. Property acquisition can also reduce the federal flood insurance program’s fiscal exposure—that is, financial risk to the government. Challenges. Many stakeholders GAO interviewed said the length of the acquisition process could lead homeowners to refuse to participate or to drop out of projects over time. Also, local governments may lack staff and expertise to manage the complex process, and states may have limited capacity to help them conduct acquisitions. Financial considerations, such as difficulty funding the nonfederal share of project costs, can also pose challenges. FEMA has taken or is considering actions to address some challenges. For example, to ease applications for communities, FEMA is developing a uniform application form for acquisition projects. GAO identified options for improving acquisitions that could help address acquisition challenges (see table). Each option has strengths and limitations. For example, FEMA could preapprove properties for acquisition by reviewing their eligibility before a community submits a grant application, which many stakeholders said could expedite applications after a flood. However, some stakeholders noted that some eligibility requirements—such as the cost-effectiveness of acquiring properties—could be difficult to preapprove. FEMA officials said the agency has been considering actions related to some of these options but has not fully implemented any of them. They also said the agency would need additional authority to implement some options, including the one to preapprove properties for acquisition. Employing one or more options could help address acquisition challenges, which could in turn lead to increased disaster resilience and reduced federal fiscal exposure. Examples of Options for Improving Federal Emergency Management Agency Property Acquisitions and Selected Challenges That Options Could Help to Address Option Length of process State and community capacity Financial challenges Preapprove properties for acquisition — — Reduce nonfederal cost share for acquisitions — Streamline the acquisition process — — Enhance state and local capability to conduct acquisition projects — Legend: = Option could help to address challenge; — = not applicable Source: GAO. | GAO-22-106037 Why GAO Did This Study Flooding is the costliest natural disaster in the U.S. Through grant programs that support local hazard mitigation projects, FEMA provides funding for communities to acquire and demolish flood-prone properties from willing owners. From 1989 to 2018, FEMA awarded about $4 billion to acquire about 46,000 properties. GAO was asked to review FEMA’s property acquisition efforts. This report examines (1) benefits and challenges of property acquisition and FEMA’s efforts to improve acquisitions, and (2) options for improving FEMA property acquisitions, among other objectives. GAO reviewed literature and FEMA documentation and interviewed FEMA officials. GAO also conducted 30 interviews with stakeholders, including representatives of state and local jurisdictions (selected to capture a range of acquisition funding levels and local conditions), acquisition programs that interviewees or literature identified as successful, organizations with relevant expertise, and researchers. Skip to Recommendations Recommendations Congress should consider providing FEMA direction or authority to implement one or more options to address property acquisition challenges. GAO is also making four recommendations to FEMA, including that it evaluate the options and determine whether to pursue implementation of any of them. The Department of Homeland Security agreed with the recommendations. Matter for Congressional Consideration Matter Status Comments Congress should consider providing direction or authority to FEMA to implement one or more of the options identified in this report to address property acquisition challenges and enhance disaster resilience. (Matter for Consideration 1) Open Open  Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned. When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information. Recommendations for Executive Action Agency Affected Recommendation Status Federal Emergency Management Agency The Deputy Associate Administrator of FEMA’s Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration should collect property-level data on property acquisition project milestones across FEMA’s hazard mitigation assistance grant programs—including the dates when properties are purchased and demolished. FEMA should use this information to support its efforts to reduce the overall length of the property acquisition process, such as by analyzing patterns to identify problems and promising practices and, over time, establishing metrics to encourage and track progress in shortening property acquisition time frames. (Recommendation 1) Open Open  Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned. When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information. Federal Emergency Management Agency The Deputy Associate Administrator of FEMA’s Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration should estimate the extent of participant attrition from property acquisition projects across FEMA’s hazard mitigation assistance grant programs and use that information to help measure progress in addressing challenges that contribute to such attrition. (Recommendation 2) Open Open  Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned. When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information. Federal Emergency Management Agency The Deputy Associate Administrator of FEMA’s Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration should define and report on additional measures, beyond cost-effectiveness, for assessing the outcomes and effects of using property acquisition to mitigate flood risk. (Recommendation 3) Open Open  Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned. When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information. Federal Emergency Management Agency The Deputy Associate Administrator of FEMA’s Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration should evaluate the options for improving property acquisitions identified in this report and determine whether and how to implement one or more of them. If FEMA determines that it needs authority for actions it seeks to implement, it should request that authority from Congress. (Recommendation 4) Open Open  Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned. When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information. Full Report GAO Contacts

Twitter Whistleblower Reveals Employees Concerned China Could Collect User Data – The Indian Express https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/twitter-whistleblower-reveals-employees-concerned-china-could-collect-user-data-the-indian-express/ Disclosures from a former Twitter Inc executive turned whistleblower show that at least one Chinese agent is working at the company, Senator Chuck Grassley said in his opening remarks during a Senate hearing on Tuesday featuring testimony from the whistleblower. Peiter “Mudge” Zatko, a famed hacker who served as Twitter’s head of security until his firing last year, said during the hearing that some Twitter employees were concerned that the Chinese government would be able to collect data on the company’s users. He referenced a Reuters story on Tuesday that detailed internal clashes between some teams that wanted to maximize the ad revenue opportunity from Chinese advertisers and others who were concerned about doing business inside China amid rising geopolitical tensions. “In a nutshell, if we were already in bed, it would be problematic if we lost that revenue stream,” Zatko said. “His disclosures also note that the FBI notified Twitter of at least one Chinese agent in the company,” Grassley said in his opening statement. Grassley noted that Twitter Chief Executive Parag Agrawal refused to appear at the hearing for fear it could jeopardize the company’s litigation against Elon Musk, who is also the CEO of Tesla. Twitter and Musk head to trial next month over whether the $44 billion takeover deal should be completed. Later on Tuesday, Twitter will also announce the results of a shareholder vote on Musk’s takeover of the company. A majority of shareholders have already approved the deal, sources told Reuters. The San Francisco-based company sued Musk for terminating the agreement, while the Tesla chief executive countersued, accusing Twitter of misrepresenting the number of false and spam accounts on its service. A Delaware judge ruled last week that Musk may include Zatko’s whistleblower claims in his case against Twitter, but denied his request to delay the trial. The Senate Judiciary Committee is questioning Zatko over his claims that Twitter misled regulators about its compliance with a 2011 settlement with the Federal Trade Commission over improper handling of user data. Since then, Twitter has made “little meaningful progress on basic security, integrity and privacy systems,” Zatko’s complaint filed with regulators in July said. The committee, chaired by U.S. Senator Dick Durban, is also expected to press Zatko on his allegation that one or more of Twitter’s employees worked on behalf of foreign governments. Durbin, speaking to reporters on Monday, said Zatko’s claims were “a matter of grave personal and privacy concern.” Twitter has said Zatko was fired for “ineffective leadership and poor performance,” and that his allegations appeared designed to harm Twitter. Zatko’s whistleblower complaint appeared to contain over two pages of links to supporting documents, such as emails between Zatko and Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal and an assessment of misinformation and disinformation on Twitter. The number of documents was limited compared to Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen, who released thousands of pages of internal material.

Nubia’s RedMagic 7S Pro Is The Coolest Gaming Phone I’ve Ever Used — Literally – ZDNet https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/nubias-redmagic-7s-pro-is-the-coolest-gaming-phone-ive-ever-used-literally-zdnet/ “,”credits”:””,”imageData”:{“id”:”d50f2cae-a528-41bf-bf2a-f8e6de8d3385″,”filename”:”nubia-redmagic-7s-pro-back-cover2.jpg”,”path”:”https://www.zdnet.com/a/img/2022/07/26/d50f2cae-a528-41bf-bf2a-f8e6de8d3385/nubia-redmagic-7s-pro-back-cover2.jpg”,”dateCreated”:{“date”:”2022-07-26 02:47:47″,”timezone”:”UTC”,”timezone_type”:3},”primeColor”:null,”hasWarning”:false},”uuid”:”d50f2cae-a528-41bf-bf2a-f8e6de8d3385″,”imageFilename”:”nubia-redmagic-7s-pro-back-cover2.jpg”,”imageDateCreated”:”2022/07/26″},”innovationAward”:”false”,”innovationDate”:null,”innovationMonth”:”06″,”innovationYear”:”2022″,”isLive”:true,”like”:”Effective cooling system with 20,000 RPM fan ~ Uninterrupted gameplay thanks to under-display camera ~ Shoulder triggers are practical ~ 5,000mAh battery with 65W fast charging”,”merchantOffers”:[{“useMonetization”:true,”monetizedUrl”:”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6ZWZQVK?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20″,”offerMerchant”:”Amazon”,”offerPrice”:””,”monetizationStatus”:”on”,”rawUrl”:”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6ZWZQVK”,”url”:”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6ZWZQVK?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20″},{“useMonetization”:true,”monetizedUrl”:””,”offerMerchant”:”RedMagic”,”offerPrice”:””,”monetizationStatus”:”error”,”rawUrl”:”https://na.redmagic.gg/products/redmagic-7s-pro”,”url”:”https://na.redmagic.gg/products/redmagic-7s-pro”}],”metadata”:{“parentId”:”4ad895b6-3d88-487a-9636-acc037b697f4″,”parentContentType”:”content_article”,”slug”:”nubia-redmagic-7s-pro-review”,”dateUpdated”:{“date”:”2022-09-13 15:08:26.066041″,”timezone_type”:3,”timezone”:”UTC”},”timestamp”:1663081706000,”lastUpdatedBy”:”25524844979454957457847746312360″,”edition”:”us”},”productName”:”Nubia RedMagic 7S Pro”,”rating”:”7.9″,”shortcodeType”:”reviewcard”,”siteId”:5,”techProdUuid”:””,”usePricing”:true,”techObjectInfo”:null}” data-key=”reviewcard__be6ceb37-480c-4688-bf55-a043a9a10783″ dislike=”Speakers can use some bass ~ UDC and cameras are still mid-tier ~ Bulky form factor ~ No wireless charging” edition=”us” editorschoice=”false” editorsdate=””2022-06-12T19:41:31.563Z”” editorsmonth=”06″ editorsyear=”2022″ id=”be6ceb37-480c-4688-bf55-a043a9a10783″ imagegroup=”{“alt”:””,”caption”:” “,”credits”:””,”imageData”:{“id”:”d50f2cae-a528-41bf-bf2a-f8e6de8d3385″,”filename”:”nubia-redmagic-7s-pro-back-cover2.jpg”,”path”:”https://www.zdnet.com/a/img/2022/07/26/d50f2cae-a528-41bf-bf2a-f8e6de8d3385/nubia-redmagic-7s-pro-back-cover2.jpg”,”dateCreated”:{“date”:”2022-07-26 02:47:47″,”timezone”:”UTC”,”timezone_type”:3},”primeColor”:null,”hasWarning”:false},”uuid”:”d50f2cae-a528-41bf-bf2a-f8e6de8d3385″,”imageFilename”:”nubia-redmagic-7s-pro-back-cover2.jpg”,”imageDateCreated”:”2022/07/26″}” innovationaward=”false” innovationdate=””2022-06-12T19:41:31.563Z”” innovationmonth=”06″ innovationyear=”2022″ like=”Effective cooling system with 20,000 RPM fan ~ Uninterrupted gameplay thanks to under-display camera ~ Shoulder triggers are practical ~ 5,000mAh battery with 65W fast charging” merchantoffers=”[{“useMonetization”:true,”monetizedUrl”:”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6ZWZQVK?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20″,”offerMerchant”:”Amazon”,”offerPrice”:””,”monetizationStatus”:”on”,”rawUrl”:”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6ZWZQVK”,”url”:”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6ZWZQVK?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20″},{“useMonetization”:true,”monetizedUrl”:””,”offerMerchant”:”RedMagic”,”offerPrice”:””,”monetizationStatus”:”error”,”rawUrl”:”https://na.redmagic.gg/products/redmagic-7s-pro”,”url”:”https://na.redmagic.gg/products/redmagic-7s-pro”}]” position=”NaN” productname=”Nubia RedMagic 7S Pro” rating=”7.9″ usepricing=”true” Pros Effective cooling system with 20,000 RPM fan Uninterrupted gameplay thanks to under-display camera Shoulder triggers are practical 5,000mAh battery with 65W fast charging Cons Speakers can use some bass UDC and cameras are still mid-tier Bulky form factor No wireless charging I’ve tested a number of gaming phones over the past year, not because of how many manufacturers there are in the market, but because each one (for whatever reason) likes to roll out new iterations every month or two.  This saturation of gaming phones often leads to tempered expectations and less excitement compared to phones that release on a less-frequent, yearly basis. More importantly, these quarterly “upgrades” tend to be minor and forgettable; maybe one or two new colors, a switch-up to one of the camera lenses, a slightly larger battery, etc.  If those were the kind of changes that Nubia made to the new RedMagic 7S Pro, then I’d be less inclined to review it. Instead, the successor to the 7 Pro sees a new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor as well as a new ICE 10.0 multi-dimensional cooling system. Altogether, mobile gaming gets a major lift with the new model, which makes it worth my attention — and yours. Specifications Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Display 6.8-inch AMOLED, 2400×1080 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate   Weight 236g (8.29 oz) RAM/Storage 12GB/256GB (Obsidian), 18GB/512GB (Mercury and Supernova) Cameras 64MP main camera, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP depth sensor, and 16MP front under-display camera Battery 5,000mAh with 65W fast charging   Connectivity 3.5mm headphone jack, USB-C, Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 802.11ac   Operating system RedMagic OS 5.5 based on Android 12 Colors Obsidian, Mercury, Supernova Meet the game changers If you’re reading this article, chances are you know full well what gaming phones have to offer: Top-of-the-line specifications, PC levels of RAM, and futuristic industrial design that makes the latest iPhone look like a retro console. That’s why I’ll begin this review by cutting right to the chase, highlighting the most innovative features of the RedMagic 7S first, and then rounding it out with insights on the rest of the mobile experience.  1. Capacitive shoulder triggers need to stay Since the early days of gaming, shoulder triggers have been quintessential for their accessibility and practicality. A left or right tap with your index finger can help you reload ammo, sprint through fields of enemies, or pull up the world map to help you know your place. While shoulder triggers are no strangers to gaming phones, the ones on the RedMagic 7S Pro are among the best I’ve tested.  Instead of using magnetic pop-up triggers, like on the Black Shark 5 Pro, the RedMagic takes a more subtle route with capacitive touchpoints on the right side of the device. This means they’re easier to register inputs with and free of that distractingly clicky sound. Nubia says the two triggers support a 520Hz touch sampling rate (not to be mistaken with refresh rate) so the actuation of your taps and presses is near instant.  The trigger buttons are naturally accessible when you’re holding the phone in landscape mode. June Wan/ZDNET I found the capacitive shoulder triggers plenty useful, especially for games like Call of Duty: Mobile which required me to glide across the phone screen to control the camera angle while I was aiming for enemies, reloading, calling air strikes, and so on. The added inputs are greatly appreciated, and it’s a feature that I’m expecting to see wider adaptation as more companies venture into cloud gaming. More: How Microsoft and Samsung may finally take cloud gaming mainstream 2. The 20,000 RPM cooling fan is not a gimmick Believe it or not, the shoulder triggers are not the coolest feature on the RedMagic 7S Pro. That honor goes to the built-in, 20,000 RPM fan that helps with heat dissipation and internal cooling.  Gaming phones can get hot. Really hot. That’s why Nubia straight-up built a ventilation system from within the handset (dubbed ICE 10.0 cooling system) to pull cool air in and push hot air out. To my surprise, the fan worked remarkably well, with an audible hissing sound to personify the effort. (You can even feel the air shooting out when you place your finger on the side vent.)  Still, for the first time in a while, playing graphic-intensive titles like Genshin Impact at its highest FPS settings didn’t make a phone feel like a hand warmer after ten or so minutes. And when it came time to put the game down and charge the phone up, the cooling fan comes to play — preventing the battery temperature from overheating.  Dynamic Island, makes the RedMagic 7S Pro a more immersive phone to use.  More: Best gaming phones in 2022 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, and have always found the output quality washed out and over-processed. While the Galaxy Z Fold 4 has a unique Flex mode to save its selfie potential, the RedMagic 7S Pro doesn’t, and that’s why the ‘camera’ bit of ‘under-display camera’ gets a thumbs down from me.  How about the rest of the phone? Design I touched on the main points of the RedMagic’s design above but other than the gaming-focused features, I’d like to reiterate that this phone is huge. The 6.8-inch display is surrounded by flattened edges and a generally rectangular form factor, making the phone feel more like a brick and less like a pebble.  I will commend Nubia for making the most out of the real estate though, fitting two shoulder triggers, power and volume buttons, a game mode switch, and even a 3.5mm headphone jack along the railing. All that’s really missing is a microSD card slot for expanded memory. You know, for ROMs, emulations, and stuff. Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass loaded and operated just as smoothly as more mainstream applications like scrolling through feeds of vertical video. And when I did notice any signs of slowing down, turning on the cooling fan was all that was needed to maintain peak performance.  RedMagic’s software over Android can be an overwhelming experience, especially if you’re akin to the simpler and more user-friendly approach of iOS and “stock” Android launchers. There’s a...

European Markets Slide After U.S. Inflation Data – Reuters.com https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/european-markets-slide-after-u-s-inflation-data-reuters-com/ The European Central Bank (ECB) presents the new 50 euro note at the bank’s headquarters in Frankfurt, Germany, July 5, 2016. REUTERS/Ralph Orlowski Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com LONDON, Sept 13 (Reuters) – European shares and the euro slid on Tuesday, and European bond yields jumped, after data showed monthly U.S consumer prices unexpectedly rose in August. The consumer price index gained 0.1% last month after being unchanged in July, the Labor Department said on Tuesday. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast the CPI dipping 0.1%. read more European stocks turned sharply lower, pushing the pan-regional STOXX 600 (.STOXX) equity benchmark into negative territory. The index was down 0.3% by 1246 GMT, having risen as much as 0.6% before the data. The dollar index , which tracks the greenback against six peers, rallied 0.7% to 109.0, heading back towards last week’s two-decade peak of 110.79, as the euro , pound and yen all declined. German borrowing costs extended their rise with the 10-year Bund yield up 6 bps to 1.7%. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by London Markets Team Editing by Tommy Reggiori Wilkes Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.