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14 Best Places To Travel In December 2022: USA And International – Good Housekeeping https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/14-best-places-to-travel-in-december-2022-usa-and-international-good-housekeeping/ Between the holidays and nonstop end-of-year festivities, December is a busy month for many. That’s why it’s the perfect time to squeeze in some much-needed downtime and book a vacation for the family. Sure, many people may have the same idea, but that shouldn’t stop you from planning a trip. The world is vast with countless wonderful destinations to choose from. If you’re unsure of where to go, don’t worry — we’ve done the work and rounded up some of the best places to visit in December. Whether you’re looking to relax in a warmer climate to escape the bitter winter chill or seeking an adventure-filled cold weather getaway — or maybe something in between, we’ve got you covered. From sunbathing on the shores of a Caribbean Island to snowboarding down steep mountain ranges in the west, let this roundup serve as inspiration for your year-end jaunt. While you’re packing your favorite travel essentials, don’t forget to pack your patience too. It’s no secret that airports can get busy during the holiday season, but don’t stress. Plan ahead and keep key travel tips like arriving at the airport at least two hours (three hours if traveling internationally) before your departure top of mind. You’ll save time and avoid unnecessary anxiety. Who wants to start their vacation stressed out? No one. So, plan accordingly and mentally prepare for minor hiccups. Now that you’ve gotten some of the travel logistics out of the way, clear your mind and get ready to end the year with a bang by exploring some of the best destinations to visit in December. The Golden State boasts a host of bountiful natural wonders, but not many are as breathtaking as Santa Barbara’s glorious coastline. In December, visitors can take advantage of the city’s moderate winter and witness mesmerizing sunsets at one of its broad, sandy beaches. Located just an hour and a half drive north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is home to myriad farm-to-table restaurants and exquisite wineries. As a world-class destination, the lodging options don’t disappoint. Guests can stay at Drift Santa Barbara, a 45-key boutique property located on a car-free promenade with floor-to-ceiling windows where natural light and coastal breezes abound. Feeling festive? On December 11th, visitors can catch the 36th Annual Parade of Lights as the city’s harbor transforms into a winter wonderland. Plus, the season is also the perfect time to catch the return of migrating gray whales in the Santa Barbara Channel. EXPLORE NOW Nestled in the rolling hills of Central Texas, this region sits atop the Edwards Plateau — located west of San Antonio and Austin. With picturesque landscapes and unique terrain, the quaint small towns that make up the area are ideal for those seeking an exciting, nature-filled excursion. Adventurous visitors can crawl through some of the numerous caves and caverns formed from limestone bedrock hidden beneath the rolling landscape. After exploring these awe-inspiring natural wonders, visitors can relax with a glass of wine from Pedernales Cellars, one of the region’s nine wineries. The pristine setting calls for lodging that highlights the scenery. Visitors can stay at Lakeway Resort and Spa, the only resort situated on the banks of Austin’s famed Lake Travis. Perfect for couples or families, the resort has amenities that everyone can enjoy including a spa, pool playground with adults-only and family friendly pools. Plus, with the lake just steps from the property, guests can partake in outdoor activities like sailing, boating and fishing. EXPLORE NOW There’s more to Nashville than country music and world-famous hot chicken. While those things are noteworthy (and tasty), the city also boasts a burgeoning arts and culture scene. With a variety of art galleries and museums that span interests, visitors can satisfy their hunger for history and cultural enlightenment. While it’s a popular city to visit all year-round, the holiday season really makes the Music City sing. Thanks to its mild winters, December is a great time to explore the city decked out in a million twinkling lights. Out-of-towners can stay at Hotel Fraye or Bode Nashville and head to the Gaylord Opryland Resort for a variety of holiday-themed activities and attractions such as snow tubing, ice skating, carriage rides, gingerbread decorating and an elaborate light display. Also, let’s face it — live music is a must when visiting the Music City. Catch a holiday concert at the iconic Ryman Auditorium featuring country superstars like LeAnn Rimes or Amy Grant & Vince Gill. After the show, indulge in warm craft cocktails at the Rooftop Lounge at Bobby Hotel where you can rent a heated igloo while taking in an incredible view of downtown Nashville from 14 stories up. Cool, right? EXPLORE NOW Just 30 minutes northwest of Denver, Boulder is a great December destination — and for good reason. Surprisingly, hotels offer their lowest rates and not much snow accumulates, which is optimal for hiking along winter trails. While it’s known for its myriad outdoor activities, breweries and proximity to the Rocky Mountains National Park, Boulder is also an urban oasis brimming with remarkable restaurant options. From lavish eateries like Flagstaff House with enviable mountain views and locally-sourced fare to more casual dining choices like The Attic Bar & Bistro, the food scene in Boulder is worthy of recognition. The arts and culture scene is also a draw. From December 3rd – December 5th, visitors and locals alike can celebrate the holiday season at the CU Boulder’s Holiday Festival, a decades-old tradition of musical performances by students and world-class faculty. EXPLORE NOW Surrounded by natural beauty, Salt Lake City is like a breath of fresh air — especially during the winter. With spectacular mountain views at every turn, visitors will be awestruck by its splendor. Also, with outdoor recreational activities like snowmobiling, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowboarding available at countless nearby resorts, the state’s capital is an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Physical activity not your thing? Don’t worry. The city offers so much more. Throughout the month, visitors can stop by the holiday art market at Alta Ski Resort, take full moon lift rides at Snowbird, or take a self-guided tour of the ten striking murals by some of Salt Lake’s most renowned local artists. The city is also a hotspot for chef-driven restaurants like SLC Eatery, providing a constantly evolving take on modern American cuisine and White Horse, a modern American Brasserie and bar. Additionally, foodies who appreciate cheese can check out Caputo’s Gourmet Market, which specializes in the art of cheese making — working with local farms to create distinct flavors. Chocolate lovers aren’t left out. The market is also the go-to spot for artisan chocolate produced in Utah. EXPLORE NOW Looking for a welcoming retreat with stretches of sugar-white beaches and turquoise blue water? If so, South Walton is a sure bet. Located in northwest Florida, it’s home to 16 beach neighborhoods. Scenic and serene, it’s the perfect backdrop for family vacations and couple getaways. From taking in a live theatrical performance at the Emerald Coast Theater to checking out art galleries like Red Bird and Foster, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities to keep them entertained. Seeking a more relaxed vibe? Visitors can stay at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa where they can unwind with rejuvenating spa treatments or put their putting skills to the test on the sprawling golf course. Plus, guests have exclusive beachfront access and on-property activities such as bike rentals, watersports, a tennis court, and more — making this a top choice for those seeking convenience and luxury. Unlike other Florida hotspot destinations, South Walton’s breezy coastal setting exudes intimate, small-town charm. EXPLORE NOW While Kennebunkport is a popular summer destination, it’s also a New England gem throughout the year as the city’s official slogan: “The Place to Be All Year Long,” suggests. Situated at the mouth of the Kennebunk River, on the Atlantic coast, Kennebunkport really delivers during the holiday season. Decked out with holiday lights and a possible dusting of snow, it’s a page right out of a winter storybook. Its famous Christmas Prelude (December 1 – December 11), is a can’t-miss attraction that includes Santa Claus arriving by lobster boat, tree lighting ceremonies and even a fireworks display. After partaking in all the festivities, visitors can nosh on local fare like classic lobster rolls and enjoy hearty chowders from Alisson’s Restaurant. EXPLORE NOW Tucked away in the Eastern Caribbean, Anguilla is known for its magnificent beaches and easygoing atmosphere. With 33 beaches, most boasting soft, white sand — it’s an undeniable paradise in December. From fun family activities like glass floor boat rides to romantic beachside dinners, the island has something for everyone. Visitors can stay at the Frangipani Beach Resort, a luxury boutique resort set in the middle of Meads Bay, one of Anguilla’s most renowned beaches. Featuring 23 rooms and suites, guests can take advantage of the plentiful amenities like beach and poolside service and complimentary water sports such as tubing and kayaking. EXPLORE NOW Thinking of becoming a digital nomad? If so, Costa Rica could be your next temporary home. With the recent digital nomad visa available to international workers, Americans can relocate to this popular Caribbean coast destination. And December is a good time to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. For starters, it’s less humid, but still warm enough to feel balmy in comparison to the cold weather dominating...

Live News: Mexico’s President Praises Senate For Extending Military’s Power – Financial Times https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/live-news-mexicos-president-praises-senate-for-extending-militarys-power-financial-times/ Choose your subscription Trial Try full digital access and see why over 1 million readers subscribe to the FT For 4 weeks receive unlimited Premium digital access to the FT’s trusted, award-winning business news Digital Be informed with the essential news and opinion MyFT – track the topics most important to you FT Weekend – full access to the weekend content Mobile & Tablet Apps – download to read on the go Gift Article – share up to 10 articles a month with family, friends and colleagues Print FT print edition delivered Monday – Saturday along with ePaper access Delivery to your home or office Monday to Saturday FT Weekend paper – a stimulating blend of news and lifestyle features ePaper access – the digital replica of the printed newspaper Team or Enterprise Premium FT.com access for multiple users, with integrations & admin tools Group Subscription Premium Digital access, plus: Convenient access for groups of users Integration with third party platforms and CRM systems Usage based pricing and volume discounts for multiple users Subscription management tools and usage reporting SAML-based single sign-on (SSO) Dedicated account and customer success teams Or, if you are already a subscriber Sign in Are you a student or a professor? Check if your university has an FT membership to read for free. Check my access

Gresham’s Healthy Lifestyle Hub Prepares To Open – Chicago Sun-Times https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/greshams-healthy-lifestyle-hub-prepares-to-open-chicago-sun-times/ Vacant for 25 years, a former furniture store in Auburn Gresham will soon be open for business as a community health and education center. Developers hope that besides being home to myriad businesses focused on health and prosperity, the four-story building also will become a beacon of community, a space where everyone is welcome to spend time in while taking advantage of free Wi-Fi, dining and catching up with friends. The four-story, 60,000 square-foot building at 839 W. 79th St., built in 1925, still sports its original terra-cotta exterior trim. “It’s very prominent in the neighborhood,” said Carlos Nelson, CEO of the Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation. “Unfortunately, 25 years of a hulking building like that being vacant is not a good thing.” Ribbon-cutting for the Gresham Healthy Lifestyle Hub is Friday, with a grand-opening ceremony, open to the public, scheduled for Nov. 11. The project got a huge boost when the development corporation received $10 million for winning the inaugural Pritzker Traubert Foundation’s Chicago Prize in 2020. The development corporation’s winning initiative included not just the rehab of the building, but also its plans for an urban farm and renewable energy center. The $12.4 million Hub also received some financial backing from the city’s Invest South/West initiative. Carlos Nelson, CEO of the Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation, shown in June 2020 at an announcement that the city’s Invest South/West program would help fund the group’s Healthy Lifestyle Hub initiative. Ashlee Rezin/Sun-Times Nelson said his group was motivated in part by seeing several businesses in the area close in recent years. Among them: Save A Lot, Aldi, CVS and a Bank of America branch — though plans are in the works to reopen the Save A Lot under new ownership. The Hub sits across from the vacant Save A Lot and CVS locations, and Nelson wants it to bring back some of what the community lost when businesses moved away. The development corporation bought the building five years ago, with the goal of filling those gaps and others, starting with a federally qualified health center. The Hub will have that, and more. It will be anchored by a medical facility, operated by University of Illinois Health, providing primary and immediate care, as well as dental care and mental health treatment. But it won’t just be health care. The Hub will bring a Bank of America branch back to the area, along with a Chicago Bears Teaching Kitchen, an office for the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring group, a pharmacy and a third Chicago location of Mikkey’s Retro Grill. The UI Health location is much needed in the neighborhood, said Camellio Lincoln, senior project manager of the Hub. According to Lincoln, there is a gap in available preventative and immediate care in the area. The University of Illinois Health Mile Square Health Center will provide immediate and primary care services at the Auburn Gresham Healthy Lifestyle Hub. Pat Nabong/Sun-Times “Currently, education about immediate and urgent care is not really out there,” Lincoln said. “So people are still going to the emergency rooms, which is very expensive.” Added Nelson: “We have not had access to high quality health care in this community in generations.” The Hub will bring over 150 living wage jobs to the area, and all Hub tenants are dedicated to hiring Black and Brown people, Lincoln said, part of the project’s goal of helping to “build a wealth generation” for the community, Nelson said. Heartland Alliance also will have a branch office in the Hub. The organization aims to help people out of poverty through jobs, housing and family services. The Auburn Gresham Healthy Lifestyle Hub, anchored by a UI Health Center, will have an array of other businesses. Pat Nabong/Sun-Times A University of Illinois Chicago neighborhood center also will have space in the building and will do a number of community outreach programs, Lincoln said. It also will provide a pro-bono legal clinic based in the center to help residents handle legal issues and also educate them on their rights. An additional gift from the Chicago Bears made the teaching kitchen, along with a community room, where nutritional training and cooking classes can be held. The first floor of the building also will have a common space where anyone can hang out and enjoy air conditioning or heat, Lincoln said. Even before the Hub opens, Nelson is thinking about what’s next for the rest of the neighborhood. Among his ideas: a food pantry; a therapy center for seniors, an incubator space for budding entrepreneurs and a shuttle service — all occupying the vacant spaces around the area. “Right on 79th in the middle of the despair and the disinvestment that was for 50 years, we knew that it would catalyze other development,” Nelson said. The hope, he added, is “that the development would be done by us, for us.”

UCF Vs. SMU Odds, Line, Spread: 2022 College Football Picks, Predictions From Proven Computer Model – CBS Sports https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/ucf-vs-smu-odds-line-spread-2022-college-football-picks-predictions-from-proven-computer-model-cbs-sports/ SMU has lost its last two football games, but those losses to Maryland and TCU don’t look quite as bad after seeing how strong the Terrapins and Horned Frogs have been this season. The Mustangs look to get back in the win column on Wednesday against UCF in a game that has already been rescheduled multiple times due to concerns over Hurricane Ian. The Knights have won each of their last two games, but those victories have come against an FAU team that has fallen off a cliff and a Georgia Tech program that fired its head coach this season. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET. The Knights are 3-point home favorites in the latest SMU vs. UCF odds listed on Caesars Sportsbook, and the over/under is set for 64.5 points. Before making any UCF vs. SMU picks, be sure to see the college football predictions and betting advice from SportsLine’s proven computer model. The SportsLine Projection Model simulates every FBS college football game 10,000 times. Over the past six-plus years, the proprietary computer model has generated a stunning profit of more than $3,100 for $100 players on its top-rated college football picks against the spread. Anyone who has followed it has seen huge returns. Now, the model has set its sights on UCF vs. SMU. You can head to SportsLine to see its picks. Here are several college football odds for SMU vs. UCF: UCF vs. SMU spread: UCF -3 UCF vs. SMU over/under: 64.5 points UCF vs. SMU picks: See picks here What you need to know about UCF Even though Sonny Dykes is no longer the head coach at SMU, the Mustangs continue to have one of the most prolific passing offenses in college football, averaging 353 passing yards per game. Meanwhile, the Knights have been one of the more dominant pass defenses and have held opponents to just 169.8 yards per contest. The Mustangs could also find themselves in trouble against UCF’s rushing attack, which averages 275.5 yards per game. SMU ranks outside of the top 100 programs in the nation at stopping the run, and has allowed 180.5 yards per game. UCF quarterback John Rhys Plumlee is also the team’s leading rusher with 404 yards and four touchdowns this season. Plumlee is joined in the backfield by running backs Isaiah Bowser and Johnny Richardson, who have a combined 446 rushing yards on the season. What you need to know about SMU Meanwhile, the Mustangs came up short against the TCU Horned Frogs two weeks ago in a 42-34 final. SMU’s defeat shouldn’t overshadow the performances of running back Tre Siggers, who punched in three rushing touchdowns, and receiver Jake Bailey, who caught eight passes for one TD and 163 yards. This is a contrast of offensive styles as UCF ranks third nationally in rushing yardage with 274.5 per game. SMU, meanwhile, has the fifth-most passing yards per game in the nation with an average of 353.  How to make UCF vs. SMU picks The model has simulated UCF vs. SMU 10,000 times and the results are in. The model is leaning Over on the total, and it’s also generated a point-spread pick that is hitting in well over 50% of simulations. You can only see the pick at SportsLine. Who will win SMU vs. UCF? And which side of the spread hits well over 50% of the time? Visit SportsLine now to find out, all from the model that has crushed its college football picks.

JPEGs Are ‘Not The Future Of Web3 And NFTs’: Polygon Studios Metaverse Lead – Decrypt https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/jpegs-are-not-the-future-of-web3-and-nfts-polygon-studios-metaverse-lead-decrypt/ In brief Brian Trunzo, Polygon Studios’ metaverse lead, spoke with Decrypt at Chainlink SmartCon 2022. He discussed future use cases for NFTs and Web3 technology, including how they’ll gain acceptance from gamers. In the early years of the NFT space thus far, it’s been profile pictures and artwork that have yielded top-dollar sales and consistently dominated headlines. But as the market evolves and the immersive future internet of the metaverse takes shape, will tokenized images continue to be the most prominent use case for NFTs? Brian Trunzo, metaverse lead at Polygon Studios, doesn’t think so. In an interview at the Chainlink SmartCon 2022 conference, he told Decrypt’s Dan Roberts and Stacy Elliott that the crypto industry will have achieved mainstream adoption of Web3 technology, NFTs, and the metaverse when “we stop saying it”—when those terms are no longer necessary. Trunzo believes that skeptics of the technology are informed by a limited understanding of Web3 and suggests that a wider set of NFT use cases will take hold in the future. “It’s because their understanding of it is that which the mainstream media reports to be right-click-save JPEGs, an investable asset class—which is not the future of Web3 and NFTs, in my mind,” he explained. An NFT is a blockchain token that can serve as a proof of ownership for an item. It can represent digital things like profile pictures, artwork, and collectibles, but also interactive video game items, customer engagement rewards, real estate deeds, and more. Polygon Studios works with creators and companies that are building on Polygon, a sidechain scaling network for Ethereum, the leading blockchain for NFTs and decentralized apps. In his role as metaverse lead, Trunzo and his team help pave the way for technology to support immersive applications and NFT-powered experiences from various creators. He pointed to Starbucks’ recent NFT announcement as an example of how he sees the assets being used as a technology layer rather than an asset class itself. Starbucks will use Polygon to give away NFT stamps to customers, as well as sell premium NFTs, all of which can earn customers real-world perks and experiences. “If Web2 was measured in engagement, [then] Web3 will be measured in gamification—brand immersion,” he explained. In the case of Starbucks, it won’t be a game-like 3D metaverse akin to Decentraland or The Sandbox, but the NFT-powered program is designed to engage users across digital and physical spaces alike. That sort of Web3 gamification is one of the biggest opportunities he sees in the space, along with digital fashion. Trunzo, who previously co-founded real-world menswear brands, said that metaverse fashion will tap into users’ need not only for self-expression, but also vanity and a desire to showcase virtual “flexes.” And when it comes to true video game experiences, Trunzo is unsurprisingly on the side of the debate that sees NFTs as a prospective benefit. Many gamers aren’t thrilled about NFTs, in part because of scams and speculation but also a widespread belief that creators and publishers will use them to extract even more value from players. Even with that stigma out there, Trunzo expects a “genie out of the bottle moment” in which more and more players embrace the benefits of using NFTs in games. In his view, the ability for players to truly own their progress and unlocked benefits as NFT assets—which can then be sold or perhaps even across in other games—will be a real plus. But he doesn’t expect that all future video games will use NFTs when that happens. Some games may live entirely on-chain, some may not see a need for NFTs, and others could land somewhere in between with modest or limited Web3 functionality. “We’re not trying to cram it down people’s throats that you have to incorporate NFTs into your game,” Trunzo said. In the meantime, some early metaverse games have been criticized for underwhelming graphics compared to the traditional game industry’s top titles. Trunzo acknowledged that Web3 gaming is early, but also said that games don’t necessarily need hyper-realistic graphics to look beautiful and stand the test of time. Trunzo pointed to “timeless IP” like popular Nintendo games, including 2002’s GameCube favorite The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker—a title that bucked trends by adopting a cel-shaded cartoonish look rather than hyper-realistic design. Twenty years later, it’s arguably held up better than many games from that era. “You play it today and it’s gorgeous,” he said. Will the same be said for Decentraland, for example, in 20 years? Trunzo believes that Web3 games will ultimately come in all shapes and sizes—with some adopting higher-end graphics and others opting for simpler or lo-fi aesthetics. “I think there will be something for everyone,” he said. Stay on top of crypto news, get daily updates in your inbox.

10 Best Dinnerware Sets 2022 — Cute Dinnerware Plates Sets – Cosmopolitan https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/10-best-dinnerware-sets-2022-cute-dinnerware-plates-sets-cosmopolitan/ RossHelenGetty Images Adulthood is filled with so many surprises. One morning, you wake up and realize hangovers are now a multi-day affair. As for staying out past a certain time, well, that’s just not happening anymore because getting a full night’s sleep is a must (especially when you have a cozy comforter set waiting for you at home). And, perhaps most surprising of all, you suddenly care a lot about kitchen accessories. Maybe it’s because adulthood comes with more dinner parties and hosting duties, but it’s not uncommon to find yourself paying closer attention to cool gadgets and classy utensils. The right kitchen tools, after all, make you feel more ~put together~. That’s precisely why having a good dinnerware set is so essential for elevating your kitchen style. Now, if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably held on to your mismatched bowls and plates for at least the better part of a decade. They’ve likely been sourced from a range of places, including home retailers, flea markets, your parent’s collection, and everywhere in between. The randomness is kinda charming when you think about it, really. And guess what? You can totally still hold onto those pieces and use them for everyday eating. A proper dinnerware set, though, is worth investing in for special occasions, like hosting Friendsgiving or your BFF’s baby shower. Our top picks for the best dinnerware sets in 2022: best neutral set Joss & Main Oatmeal Stoneware Dinnerware Read More best unbreakable set Slow Hour Unbreakable Dinnerware Set Read More best overall set Elama Contemporary Dinnerware Set Read More best colorful set Bzyoo Colorful Dinnerware Set Read More best designer set Kate Spade Street East 16-piece Dinnerware Set Read More best value set Stone Lain Marble Porcelain Dinnerware Set Read More best glass set Crate and Barrel Moderno Dinner Plates Read More best artsy set Food52 Feast Dinnerware by Yotam Ottolenghi Read More best handmade set Baughaus Design Studio Flora Dinner Plate Read More best luxury set 54kibo Fatyly Porcelain Dinnerware Set Read More To get you started on your dinnerware set search, we’ve searched far and wide, seeking out an assortment of choices that fit any design sensibility and overall budget. Keep reading for our curated selection of the best dinnerware sets worth shopping right now. Take it from us, your wine and dine game is about to get taken to a whole ‘nother level. best neutral set Joss & Main Oatmeal Stoneware Dinnerware best unbreakable set Slow Hour Unbreakable Dinnerware Set best overall set Elama Contemporary Dinnerware Set best colorful set Bzyoo Colorful Dinnerware Set best designer set Kate Spade Street East 16-piece Dinnerware Set best value set Stone Lain Marble Porcelain Dinnerware Set best glass set Crate and Barrel Moderno Dinner Plates best artsy set Food52 Feast Dinnerware by Yotam Ottolenghi best handmade set Baughaus Design Studio Flora Dinner Plate best luxury set 54kibo Fatyly Porcelain Dinnerware Set What to look for in a dinnerware set Naturally, the internet is bursting with cute dinnerware sets, so you have puh-lenty of options to choose from. Here are a few factors to keep in mind when shopping for your perfect set. Determine your aesthetic Take the color and overall design style of your kitchen and dining areas into account when selecting which colors, patterns, and overall style of dinnerware is best for you. Neutrals or bright colors? Solid colors or fun patterns? Number of settings and pieces Before selecting a dinnerware set, you’re going to need to decide how many pieces you’ll need. Are you planning on hosting large parties? If so, you’ll want to make sure to get a set that includes at least six settings. If you want something for everyday use, you can go with one that has enough settings for each person in your household (or a classic set of four is always a good go-to). Do you want multiple plate and bowl sizes? Think about what food you’ll be serving the most. Durability If you want a set that’s ~fancier~, you’ll probably want to consider porcelain or ceramic. But if you’d prefer pieces that you don’t have to be as delicate with, opt for a material that’s more lightweight and less breakable. How we chose the best dinnerware sets Here at Cosmopolitan, we have a team of shopping experts constantly searching for the best deals on any and everything. To bring you the absolute best, we read through countless reviews, compared various price points, and researched the latest and greatest in dinnerware sets. You can trust that with the Cosmo shopping team; all bases are covered. Mekita Rivas Mekita Rivas is a freelance journalist based in Washington, D.C.

Market Wrap: Crypto Markets Flatten As Latest Employment Data Throws A Setback For Inflation Hawks – CoinDesk https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/market-wrap-crypto-markets-flatten-as-latest-employment-data-throws-a-setback-for-inflation-hawks-coindesk/ Glenn C Williams Jr, CMT is a Crypto Markets Analyst with an initial background in traditional finance. His experience includes research and analysis of individual cryptocurrencies, defi protocols, and crypto-based funds. He owns BTC, ETH, UNI, DOT, MATIC, and AVAX Bitcoin and ether prices flattened in Wednesday trading as investors weighed the latest jobs data suggesting the economy isn’t finished growing. Bitcoin’s (BTC) price slumped a fraction of a percentage point on Wednesday but climbed back above the $20,000 level after slumping below earlier in the day. BTC had declined overnight and accelerated for several hours, with the sharpest decline occurring during the 13:00 UTC hour (9:00 a.m. ET), as U.S. traditional markets opened and ADP’s Employment report on job creation in the private sector arrived hotter than expected. BTC volume during the downturn exceeded its average volume during that time frame by 5 times. Ether’s (ETH) price’s also declined, as the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization fell 0.95%, erasing a portion of its gains from the prior two days. ETH’s biggest drop occurred during the 13:00 UTC (9:00 a.m. ET) timeframe. ETH prices are down 19% since the Merge, the Ethereum network’s conversion from a proof-of-work consensus mechanism to a proof-of-stake system on Sept. 15. The CoinDesk Market Index (CMI), a broad-based market index that measures the performance of a basket of cryptocurrencies, recently declined by 0.32%. U.S. Equities: Traditional stocks declined following strong labor data, as the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), tech-heavy Nasdaq composite and S&P 500 fell 0.14%, 0.25% and 0.20%, respectively. OPEC (the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries) announced a 2 million barrel per day cut in oil production. In the U.S., crude oil inventories dropped by 1.36 million barrels versus expectations for a 2.1 million barrel increase for the week ending Sept 30. Gasoline inventories fell by 4.7 million barrels, significantly more than the expected 1.3 million barrel decrease, and the largest decline in eight weeks. Both developments will likely send energy prices higher, a challenging scenario given the U.S. central bank’s current priority to tame inflation. Energy markets rose following the OPEC announcement and U.S. inventory data, as WTI and Brent European crude increased 1.8% and 2%, respectively. Natural gas prices increased 1.8%. Metals: Gold prices declined 0.3%, while copper futures rose 1.6% ADP Employment, which measures job creation among private U.S. businesses, grew by 208,000 in September, versus consensus estimates of 200,000, and a 12% increase over the 185,000 jobs created in August. According to the report, annual pay increased 7.8% for workers who stayed at their jobs, while wages for job changers increased 15.7%. The news, which showed a still-hot jobs market, indicated that the economy is not slowing as much as inflation hawks had hoped to see. ● Bitcoin (BTC): $20,041 −1.6% ● Ether (ETH): $1,348 −1.2% ● CoinDesk Market Index (CMI): 980.86 −0.7% ● S&P 500 daily close: 3,783.28 −0.2% ● Gold: $1,725 per troy ounce +0.2% ● Ten-year Treasury yield daily close: 3.76% +0.1 Bitcoin, ether and gold prices are taken at approximately 4pm New York time. Bitcoin is the CoinDesk Bitcoin Price Index (XBX); Ether is the CoinDesk Ether Price Index (ETX); Gold is the COMEX spot price. Information about CoinDesk Indices can be found at coindesk.com/indices. BTC continues to trade in a consolidated range BTC prices spent much of Wednesday toggling above and below $20,000, as the largest cryptocurrency by market cap continues to trade in a tight range. The Average True Range (ATR) for BTC has decreased 64% in 2022. ATR measures an asset’s daily range of movement. The contraction of ATR for bitcoin signals prices have gotten less volatile. In lieu of a tangible catalyst, BTC continues to fluctuate as the narrative around economic growth changes. Tuesday’s Market Wrap highlighted increased optimism for a Federal Reserve pivot to lower interest rates, which seemingly pushed risk assets (both traditional and digital) higher. Today’s better-than-expected ADP jobs data is having the opposite effect, giving the Fed additional cover to follow through on its intentions to push interest rates aggressively higher. The CME FedWatch tool continues to project another hefty 0.75-percentage-point (75-basis-point) rate hike in November. For BTC investors looking for bullish signs, on-chain analytics offer potential clues for bitcoin price expansion when volatility begins to increase. The net position change for stablecoins (denoted in green in the chart below) on cryptocurrency exchanges has begun to increase again, and has been net positive in each of the most recent 24 days. Often an increase in the balance of stablecoins implies additional buying pressure for an asset, whereas the increased supply of cryptocurrencies (i.e. BTC and ETH), implies increased selling pressure. For BTC investors leaning bearishly, the current bitcoin price appears to be near its production cost. Glassnode’s Difficulty Regression Model estimates the “cost of production” for BTC miners, and currently it puts that at approximately $18,081, or 11% below bitcoin’s current price. A reduction in BTC’s price below this figure is likely to add stress to bitcoin miners, which could have a downward impact on prices as well. Viewing that in conjunction with technical data, however, implies that while nearing the cost of production, buying support exists at levels above $18,000. Volume Profile Visual Range (VPVR), a tool that illustrates trading volume by price level, indicates that historically BTC investors have been willing to add to long positions in a range between $19,000 and $20,000. Bitcoin exchange net position change (Glassnode) Decentralized Exchange Token GMX Surges After Binance, FTX Listings: The token of the decentralized exchange GMX gained popularity for defying this year’s crypto rout, and it nearly hit its previous all-time high after Binance and FTX, two of the world’s most widely used crypto exchanges, announced plans to list the token. Read more here. Mythical Games Creates Mythos Foundation to Decentralize Web3 Gaming: The gaming technology company is also expanding its ecosystem with the Mythos DAO and the MYTH governance token, an ERC-20 token with a total supply of one billion. Read more here. Listen : Today’s “CoinDesk Markets Daily” podcast discusses the latest market movements and a look at a case in which the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) appears to regulate by enforcement. Biggest Gainers Biggest Losers Sector classifications are provided via the Digital Asset Classification Standard (DACS), developed by CoinDesk Indices to provide a reliable, comprehensive and standardized classification system for digital assets. The CoinDesk Market Index (CMI) is a broad-based index designed to measure the market capitalization weighted performance of the digital asset market subject to minimum trading and exchange eligibility requirements. Sign up for Crypto Long & Short, our weekly newsletter featuring insights, news and analysis for the professional investor. By signing up, you will receive emails about CoinDesk product updates, events and marketing and you agree to our terms of services and privacy policy. DISCLOSURE Please note that our privacy policy, terms of use, cookies, and do not sell my personal information has been updated . The leader in news and information on cryptocurrency, digital assets and the future of money, CoinDesk is a media outlet that strives for the highest journalistic standards and abides by a strict set of editorial policies. CoinDesk is an independent operating subsidiary of Digital Currency Group, which invests in cryptocurrencies and blockchain startups. As part of their compensation, certain CoinDesk employees, including editorial employees, may receive exposure to DCG equity in the form of stock appreciation rights, which vest over a multi-year period. CoinDesk journalists are not allowed to purchase stock outright in DCG . Glenn C Williams Jr, CMT is a Crypto Markets Analyst with an initial background in traditional finance. His experience includes research and analysis of individual cryptocurrencies, defi protocols, and crypto-based funds. He owns BTC, ETH, UNI, DOT, MATIC, and AVAX Glenn C Williams Jr, CMT is a Crypto Markets Analyst with an initial background in traditional finance. His experience includes research and analysis of individual cryptocurrencies, defi protocols, and crypto-based funds. He owns BTC, ETH, UNI, DOT, MATIC, and AVAX

U.S. Appeals Court Sends DACA Case Back To Lower Court To Consider New Rules – Reuters.com https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/u-s-appeals-court-sends-daca-case-back-to-lower-court-to-consider-new-rules-reuters-com/ WASHINGTON, Oct 5 (Reuters) – A federal appeals court ruled on Wednesday that a program that has protected hundreds of thousands of young immigrants from deportation was unlawful, but said current enrollees could renew their status and sent the case back to a lower court to consider a new Biden administration regulation. A panel of three judges from the conservative-leaning 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court’s ruling against the program, called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), but remanded the case in light of a new regulation issued in August. The decision is a mixed one for U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, who said he wants a permanent pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients – often known as “Dreamers.” Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com The court allowed for the current 594,000 DACA enrollees to maintain their status, but continues to block new applications. In remanding the case, the appeals court said it did not have enough information to rule on the new regulation, which is set to take effect on Oct. 31, but that the case should be resolved as quickly as possible. The 46-page opinion signaled the judges were skeptical of DACA’s legality. “The legal questions that DACA presents are serious, both to the parties and to the public,” they wrote. “In our view, the defendants have not shown that there is a likelihood that they will succeed on the merits.” Former President Barack Obama, a Democrat, whom Biden served under as vice president, created DACA in 2012 after efforts by U.S. Congress to grant citizenship to immigrants brought to the country as children failed. Texas and a coalition of states with Republican attorneys general in 2018 sued to end DACA, arguing it was illegally implemented. In July 2021, U.S. District Court Judge Andrew Hanen in Texas sided with states. read more Hanen’s decision blocked new DACA applications from being processed, but pre-existing DACA recipients were allowed to continue receiving benefits and apply for renewal. read more The Biden administration appealed the decision, sending the case to the 5th Circuit. People with DACA status can obtain work permits, a Social Security number and in some states, receive driver’s licenses and financial aid for education. read more DACA recipients have faced years of uncertainty and legal wrangling. Biden’s predecessor, former Republican President Donald Trump, tried to end the program but was stymied by the Supreme Court. The opinion issued on Wednesday was authored by an appointee of former President George W. Bush, a Republican, who was joined by two Trump appointees. Biden came into office promising to work toward a long-term solution for the “Dreamers,” but Republicans and Democrats have found little common ground on immigration in recent years, making a legislative fix before the Nov. 8 midterm elections unlikely. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Ted Hesson in Washington; Additional reporting by Kristina Cooke in San Francisco Writing by Tim Ahmann Editing by Mica Rosenberg, Rosalba O’Brien and Matthew Lewis Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

Active Shooter Safety Drill Held At South Science And Technology School – Your News Now https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/active-shooter-safety-drill-held-at-south-science-and-technology-school-your-news-now/ Log In You are logged in  Switch accounts Sign Up * Username (Optional) This is the name that will be displayed next to your photo for comments, blog posts, and more. Choose wisely! * Email Address Your e-mail address will be used to confirm your account. We won’t share it with anyone else. * Password Create a password that only you will remember. If you forget it, you’ll be able to recover it using your email address. * Confirm Password Confirm your password. Join our mailing lists Advertising News  Would you like to receive advertising news? Signup today! Breaking News  Would you like to receive breaking news? Signup today! Headline News  Would you like to receive our headline news? Signup today! Sports News Would you like to receive our sports news? Signup today! CAPTCHA Have an account? Log In You’re all set! Thank you. Your account has been registered, and you are now logged in. Check your email for details. OK Log In Invalid password or account does not exist Email Address Password Remember me Forgot your password? Email me a log in link Need an account? Sign Up Reset Password Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password. Email or Screen Name CAPTCHA Forgot Password An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the e-mail address listed on your account. Email me a log in link Account Email CAPTCHA Purchase Access You are logged in  Switch accounts Secure & Encrypted What’s your e-mail address? E-mail Password Confirm How would you like to pay? Name Credit Card CVV Zip Code Expiration I Agree to the Subscription Terms of Use. Secure transaction. Cancel anytime. You’re all set! Thank you. Your purchase was successful, and you are now logged in. A receipt was sent to your email. OK An error occurred This offer is currently unavailable.

Fall 2022 ICON Board Gaming Convention Set For This Weekend – East Idaho News https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/fall-2022-icon-board-gaming-convention-set-for-this-weekend-east-idaho-news/ IDAHO FALLS — The Idaho Convention for Boardgamers is inviting board gaming fans of all ages out for the ICON Fall 2022 convention this Friday and Saturday in Idaho Falls. ICON is two days of board games, raffles and fun for anyone who loves any and all types of board gaming. The event is happening at the Idaho Falls Veterans Memorial Building and gives board game lovers a chance to compete with like-minded people, learn new games and meet new friends. “ICON is a board gaming convention for people of all ages, from kids all the way up to adults,” ICON spokesperson Jonathan DeYoung told EastIdahoNews.com. “We even have some people who are senior citizens show up, people who are 60-plus. We play board games for two days straight, have a few tournaments and have a lot of fun.” The convention has long been a part of Idaho Falls and currently occurs twice a year, in April and October. The goal is the same as it’s always been: to give people a chance to play their favorite games, learn new games and maybe even find their next favorite game. Courtesy ICON Idaho Boardgamers Group Facebook “We’ll have at least 200 different games that people can use,” said DeYoung. “People are also welcome to bring their own games. We’ll also have a representative from Roundtable Games who will be hosting a couple of tournaments and selling some games, as well.” “ICON is a great place to find your next favorite game,” he added. “We have a bunch of games that are brand new. Some of them aren’t even out to the mass market yet. They’ve been Kickstarted or we get them from the manufacturer before they’ve actually been released. Some people from SaltCON (the Utah board gaming convention) come up every year and bring some of their games, as well.” The convention will also include several tournaments featuring games like Dune Imperium and Glacial Skies. Roundtable Games will host a Magic: The Gathering tournament (for a $15.00 entry fee) on Friday and a “Learn-To-Play Dungeons & Dragons” session on Saturday. There are also some opportunities for those motivated by winning free stuff to walk away with some cool prizes. “We’re going to give away probably $300 or $400 worth of games at ICON as giveaways and raffles,” DeYoung said. DeYoung said that board gaming is a great way to forge relationships and socialize throughout the year. “The first time I went to ICON was 16-and-a-half years ago, I think, and I have friends from that very first ICON I went to that I still have today,” he said. “They’re still coming to ICON, as well. They’ve become life-long friends. Our kids have hung out together. Board gaming is a great thing to do with family and friends.” ICON Fall 2022 is set for this Friday and Saturday, Oct. 7 and 8 at the Idaho Falls Veterans Memorial Building from 9 a.m. to midnight. Admission is $10.00 per day for adults, $5.00 per day for kids ages 12 – 17 and free for kids under 12. Visit the ICON Idaho Boardgamers Group on Facebook for more information. Courtesy ICON Idaho Boardgamers Group Facebook

MALVEAUX: Black Wombs Matter — See ‘Aftershock’ – The Washington Informer https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/malveaux-black-wombs-matter-see-aftershock-the-washington-informer/ Did you know that Black women are three or four times more likely to die from childbirth complications than white women? Congresswoman Robin Kelly (D-Ill.), who heads the Congressional Black Caucus Health Brain trust, says the data are direr depending on where a mother lives. In Illinois, Black women are six times as likely to die. In New York, Black women are 10 times as likely to die. And it’s not just Black women. With a significant Indigenous population in Washington state, those women are eight times as likely to die as white women! The issue of Black maternal health care is tackled in the film “Aftershock,” which can be seen on Hulu. Produced by Tonya Lewis Lee and Paula Eiselt, the film features families directly and painfully affected by how Black women are treated as they deliver children. The Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Forum featured several brain trust meetings on health, including one titled “Creating Maternal Health Care Systems that Believe and Protect Black Women.” It featured clips from “Aftershock” and included panelists affected by the Black maternal health crisis. Shawnee Benton Gibson’s daughter Shamony Makeba Gibson died from complications from childbirth only 13 days after she gave birth to her son. She complained of pain, shortness of breath and more, but health care providers told her these were “natural” childbirth symptoms. She was only rushed to the hospital to die once she could not move. Later, it was shown that health care providers ignored vital signs of her increasingly poor health. She died from medical indifference and incompetence. Also featured in the film were Omari Maynard, Shamony’s partner who is now raising two children alone, and Bruce McIntyre III, whose partner Amber Rose Isaac died after an emergency C-section. He says her death is the result of “medical negligence” and has joined several others in shining light on this pandemic of Black maternal health. “Aftershock” lifts the importance of doula (pregnancy coaches and advocates) and midwives, an essential part of maternal health. It also looks at the criminalization of midwives and those who eschew traditional birthing. Some midwives have been criminally prosecuted for bringing healthy babies into the world. The film also highlights the racist origins of the OB/GYN medical specialty. Developed by a sadist white physician, James Marion Sims, the specialty has its roots in experiments on enslaved Black women. Indeed, the lie that Black people can withstand enormous pain is rooted in enslavement and the brutal way Black women were experimented on. Because Sims believed Black women could stand all kinds of pain, he conducted painful experiments without anesthesia. Really? Yet some medical professionals continue to laud his work, and until 2018 a statue celebrating him was part of New York’s Central Park. His defenders say he was just a product of his times, but it is clear that he not only experimented on enslaved women that he owned but also purchased women to experiment on them. I reject the notion that Sims was a product of his times. He was a sadistic brute who denied Black women’s very humanity. Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (D-Ill.), the youngest member of the Congressional Black Caucus, has introduced the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act, an essential step toward eliminating the treatment Black women experience as they give birth. A 12-part comprehensive piece of legislation, the act includes expansion of mental health services for mothers, telehealth for new moms, increased data collection, and funding for community-based organizations working on maternal health issues. Supported by more than 250 organizations, including the American Nurses Association, the Association of Black Women Physicians, the Center for American Progress, the Children’s Defense Fund, Families USA, the NAACP, and others, the legislation has more than 30 Congressional co-sponsors. The legislation has yet to pass the House of Representatives, and it is unlikely to pass the parsimonious Senate. People can get involved by reminding their legislative representatives of the importance of this Momnibus Act. Shawnee Benton Gibson, Shomany’s mom, said that if Black Lives Matter, then Black wombs must also matter. She has turned the pain of her daughter’s death into powerful advocacy for Black maternal health. She is among the many, including Congresswomen Robin Kelly and Lauren Underwood and many others, who must be applauded for addressing this issue. Black wombs matter. Watch “Aftershock”! Malveaux is an economist, author and dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at California State University, Los Angeles.

ALG Vacations Rolls Out ALGVPro – TravelPulse https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/alg-vacations-rolls-out-algvpro-travelpulse/ ALG Vacations has launched its new travel advisor specialist program, ALGVPro. The program is comprised of five interactive Certification modules, which must be successfully completed to be certified as an ALGVPro. Completion of the program also qualifies travel advisors for continuing education unit (CEU) credit from the Travel Institute and there are electives advisors can enroll in to earn additional CEU credits. Advisors can start with ALGV’s Recommended path, which includes Basic curriculum. They can then work their way up to the Advanced curriculum. The alternative for travel advisors familiar with ALG Vacations is to test out of the fundamentals by enrolling in the Accelerated path. Through the Certification modules and the Electives, advisors will learn about what sets ALGV apart and become familiar with its brands. Advisors will also learn how to use VAX VacationAccess to maximum efficiency as well as how to manage group bookings. The program also gives travel advisors the latest details on ALGV policies, programs, marketing platforms and advisor advantages and more. There are more than just educational benefits to becoming an ALGV Pro: 5,000 WAVES® points for the first 500 advisors who complete all five ALGVPro Certification modules. Quarterly incentives for completing a new module—including drawings for three hotel stays, five sets of Exclusive Nonstop Vacation Flight (ENVF) seats, and a United Airlines® amenity voucher. Up to five Travel Institute CEU credits – three credits for completing the Certification curriculum and two more when completing the Elective courses. One reduced-rate air seat on any ENVF booked 30 – 60 days in advance of departure at the 30- to 0-day fare, as part of ALGV’s Discounted Agent Vacation (DAV) program. “We’re thrilled to get this travel advisor specialist program off the ground and arm advisors with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive travel environment,” said Jacki Marks, Executive Vice President, Trade Brands. “Becoming an ALGVPro will make travel advisors’ jobs easier as they learn new tips and efficiencies to accelerate their path to profitability and get on the fast track to success.” It’s easy to get started: Travel advisors just need to enroll at ALGVacations.com/ALGVPro. %

Announces 2022-2023 Kaplan Fellows – News – Harvard Business School – Hbs.edu https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/announces-2022-2023-kaplan-fellows-news-harvard-business-school-hbs-edu/ Founded in 1908 as part of Harvard University, Harvard Business School is located on a 40-acre campus in Boston. Its faculty of more than 200 offers full-time programs leading to the MBA and PHD degrees, as well as more than 70 open enrollment Executive Education programs and 55 custom programs, and Harvard Business School Online, the School’s digital learning platform. For more than a century, HBS faculty have drawn on their research, their experience in working with organizations worldwide, and their passion for teaching to educate leaders who make a difference in the world, shaping the practice of business and entrepreneurship around the globe. BOSTON—Harvard Business School (HBS) has announced this year’s recipients of the Robert S. Kaplan (MBA 1983) Life Sciences Fellowship. Established in 2008, the fellowship was created by Robert S. Kaplan, who served as president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, vice chairman of the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., and was the Martin Marshall Professor of Practice at HBS. The Kaplan Fellowship encourages students with credentials in the life science disciplines to attend HBS by awarding incoming MBA students up to $20,000. Past recipients of the award have demonstrated academic science achievements and professional leadership roles in the industry. This year, many recipients are joint degree students in the MS/MBA Biotechnology: Life Sciences Program, which builds upon students’ existing biotech and life science knowledge and equips them with the latest business and scientific insights. Kaplan Fellows express a strong commitment to continue a life science career after graduation, including applying to and completing the Blavatnik Fellowship in Life Science Entrepreneurship, which offers HBS alumni the opportunity to build a life science venture while developing their leadership talents. “This year’s Kaplan Fellows start their HBS journeys with diverse scientific backgrounds and will add tremendous value to the School as well as the business and biotech communities in Boston,” said Robert Huckman, Albert J. Weatherhead III Professor of Business Administration and Howard Cox Health Care Initiative Faculty Chair. “It is exciting to welcome this new generation of leaders to Harvard’s thriving life science ecosystem.” The 2022-2023 Kaplan Fellows are: Gabriella (Bella) del Hierro (MS/MBA 2024) Prior to HBS, Bella spent five years working in the biotechnology industry as a benchtop scientist. She started her career at Genentech where she learned the necessary steps to create and scale up end-to-end manufacturing processes for large molecule biotherapeutics. Most recently, she transitioned to the cell therapy space to support the development of analytical methods for early-stage T cell therapies. Outside the lab, she acted on her passion for diversity and inclusion to help spearhead relationships with historically black colleges and universities, aiming to increase representation of minorities in the biotechnology industry. As a MS/MBA Biotechnology candidate, Bella is excited to, “bridge the gap between science and business by combining my technical background with the HBS curriculum, and ultimately launch novel medicines that benefit underserved patient populations.”  Aaron Edwards (MS/MBA 2024) Aaron joins HBS after nearly a decade as a scientist at multiple companies across Boston’s biotech sector. His passion for developing innovative therapies to help patients suffering from serious diseases led him to work on mRNA vaccines at Novartis, gene therapies at bluebird bio, and most recently on gene-edited CAR-T programs at Beam Therapeutics. “Joining the third cohort of the MS/MBA: Biotechnology Program as a Kaplan Fellow is an opportunity that I do not take lightly,” Aaron says. “With the next generation of startup companies being formed almost daily in the area comes a strong need for leaders that not only have a vigorous drive to alleviate human suffering, but also a uniquely tailored education and training to take on such a lofty task.” Adam Esposito (MBA 2024) Adam joins HBS after eight years at Moderna, where he worked in early-stage R&D. There, he designed nanotechnologies for delivering mRNA medicine into the body. He is proud to have contributed to one of the first COVID-19 vaccines in the world and Moderna’s first commercial product. Outside of the laboratory, Adam championed program development efforts exploring new applications of mRNA in oncology. Adam said, “As a Kaplan Fellow, I hope to leverage my scientific background and business training to ultimately lower the barriers for bringing new medicine to patients in need.” Claudia Hill, PhD (MS/MBA 2024) ) Prior to HBS, Claudia earned a PhD in biomedical engineering at Oxford University’s Centre of Drug Delivery and Devices, a multidisciplinary research environment that combined engineering of biology, chemistry, and medical devices with the aim of improving drug delivery. Her thesis investigated ways to enhance the pharmacokinetics and targeting of oncolytic (cancer-killing) viruses and her research was disseminated through peer-reviewed publications as well as a book chapter in Oncolytic Virotherapy. In addition to her academic work, she co-founded Neumind, a digital health company working to provide accessible, world-class rehabilitation therapy to patients with brain injuries and neurological conditions. Claudia said, “I am excited to combine my technical knowledge and strategic expertise through the MS/MBA Biotechnology program while utilizing the incredible Harvard resources to fulfill my ambition of delivering world-class therapies to patients equitably.” Nidhin Laji, MD (MBA 2024) Nidhin graduated in medicine from King’s College London and completed his foundation residency at Cambridge University Hospitals. While in training, Nidhin raised funding from Trinity College Cambridge and the Judge Business School to patent a software algorithm that uses 3D printing to help surgeons perform aortic arch reconstructions in neonates. After stepping out of clinical practice, Nidhin worked as a life sciences consultant at Charles River Associates where he led strategy teams and advised biopharmaceutical clients on commercial strategy, pricing, and market access. Nidhin said, “As an MBA candidate, I’m excited to build on my experience of quantifying unmet needs and working with academics in order to deliver therapies that will meaningfully change standards of care.” Dalia Laredo (MBA 2024) Prior to HBS, Dalia worked in clinical R&D at Regeneron Pharmaceuticals researching the formulation development of cancer immunotherapies. Dalia is a chemical and biomedical engineer from Carnegie Mellon University with experience in four academic labs. Among this research, she has studied collagen fatigue in Achilles’ tendons with ex vivo tissue models and examined the mechanical properties of graphene nanoplatelets. Dalia volunteers for the American Cancer Society and for Yonkers Partners in Education as a science research mentor. Dalia said, “I am most looking forward to joining and fostering a health care community focused on increasing access and equity in medicine.” Michael Lee (MS/MBA 2024) Michael has spent the last six years as a scientist in early-stage biotechnology companies and helped lead the R&D pipeline in the diagnostics and therapeutics space. He started his career at Stratos Genomics where he developed novel chemistry to improve the speed, accuracy, and cost of DNA sequencing. After a successful acquisition from Roche, Michael joined an RNA-targeting gene therapy start-up, Shape Therapeutics, and helped develop their adeno-associated virus platform to create bespoke viruses that precisely and safely deliver human gene therapies. As an MS/MBA Biotechnology candidate, Michael said he is “humbled by the support of the Kaplan Fellowship and looks forward to becoming an empowering leader in the biotechnology field to innovate and democratize health care for underserved communities around the globe.” Julia Lord (MS/MBA 2024) Prior to HBS, Julia spent five years in the life sciences industry, first as a strategy consultant at ClearView Healthcare Partners before moving to bluebird bio as a member of the strategy and business development team. At bluebird, she worked closely with the early-stage research teams to build next-generation gene therapy products such as reduced-toxicity conditioning methods and direct administration of viral vectors. As a Kaplan Fellow, Julia said, “I’m excited to more deeply explore the intersection of science and business through the MS/MBA program and look forward to working with early-stage biotech companies to bring novel transformative therapies to patients.” Calvin Marambo (MS/MBA 2024) Growing up in Tanzania, Calvin’s passion for scientific research developed from a desire to help solve his community’s medical challenges. As a bioengineering concentrator student at Harvard College, he sought opportunities to learn how to use scientific tools to address complex medical problems like multi-drug resistant tuberculosis and pediatric oncology. He spent time at the Wyss Institute researching biomaterials for drug delivery to help improve emergency wound treatment for burn-injured service members. Prior to HBS, Calvin worked in formulation discovery at Moderna, where he developed lipid nanoparticles (the vehicles that protect the delicate mRNAs and ship them to the desired cells) to deliver mRNA vaccines and therapeutics. He also worked at Alkermes to support the discovery and development of drug candidates (small molecules and biologics) for central nervous system disorders and oncology. Calvin is pursuing the MS/MBA Biotechnology program and said he hopes ...

AHS Provides Education And Support With Online Health Workshops – Rdnewsnow.com https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/ahs-provides-education-and-support-with-online-health-workshops-rdnewsnow-com/ Nutrition Labels: Reading Between the Lines Learn about label reading and understanding the nutrition facts table. Get a better understanding about nutrient and health claims. Build skills to help you make the healthiest choice at the grocery store. Oct. 18 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 18 from noon to 1 p.m. Nutrition: The 4 P’s of Meal Planning Learn tips on how to put your nutrition knowledge into practice with the 4 P’s: Plan, Purchase, Prepare and Pack. Oct. 26 from noon to 1 p.m. Nov. 17 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Moving Matters: Including Physical Activity in Your Day Discuss ways to become more physically active, benefits and barriers to being more active, and ways to set your own physical activity goals. Nov. 24 from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Registration is required as dates and times are subject to change. For more information and to register to attend, please call the Alberta Healthy Living Program at 1-877-314-6997. (AHS media release) by Alberta Health Services

PSG Vs. Benfica Odds, Picks, How To Watch, Live Stream: Oct. 5, 2022 UEFA Champions League Predictions – CBS Sports https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/psg-vs-benfica-odds-picks-how-to-watch-live-stream-oct-5-2022-uefa-champions-league-predictions-cbs-sports/ Two teams who have yet to lose in domestic or European play this season will lock up Wednesday on Paramount+ in a 2022 UEFA Champions League match. Paris Saint-Germain sits atop France’s Ligue 1 and started their UCL campaign with back-to-back wins. Meanwhile, Benfica also kicked off the Champions League with a pair of victories and the Portuguese club is first in the Primeira Liga table. These clubs have met six times previously in European competitions and Benfica holds a 3-1-2 edge. You can see what happens when you stream the match now on Paramount+. Kickoff from Estádio da Luz in Lisbon, Portugal, is set for 3 p.m. ET. The latest PSG vs. Benfica odds from Caesars Sportsbook list Paris Saint-Germain as the -135 favorite (risk $135 to win $100) on the 90-minute money line, with Benfica the +325 underdog. A draw is priced at +320 and the over/under for total goals scored is 3.5. Wednesday’s match will be streamed live on Paramount+ with their must-have Premium plan. Paramount+ is the only place to watch every minute of every UEFA Champions League match this season. Sign up now to get a 7-day free trial. A subscription also gives you access to other sports content including the UEFA Europa League, Italian Serie A, NWSL, NFL on CBS, and countless movies and shows. Get it all free for 7 days when you sign up right here.   How to watch Benfica vs. PSG PSG vs. Benfica date: Wednesday, Oct. 5 PSG vs. Benfica time: 3 p.m. ET PSG vs. Benfica live stream: Paramount+ UEFA Champions League picks for Benfica vs. PSG Before you tune in to Wednesday’s match, you need to see the UEFA Champions League picks from consummate soccer insider Jon Eimer. Eimer is a high-volume bettor who has vast knowledge of leagues and players across the globe. Since joining SportsLine, he has covered the English Premier League, Serie A, the FA Cup and much more. He is 243-225-7 overall on his soccer picks in 2022, including an astounding 37-20-1 on Premier League predictions for a profit of more than $1,400 for $100 bettors. For PSG vs. Benfica, Eimer is backing both teams to score and over 2.5 goals. With household names like Lionel Messi, Neymar and Kylian Mbappé, PSG’s offensive potency is obvious. They are the highest-scoring team in their domestic league and just two clubs scored more goals than their five through the first two UCL Matchdays. PSG has scored in all 12 of their games across all competitions this season. Meanwhile, Benfica has scored in 13 of their 14 matches, including five goals in their last home game. The Portuguese side is averaging 3.3 goals per home match, and the scoreboard should be lit up come Wednesday. “We are in for a matchup between some of the best attacking powers in the world come Wednesday,” Eimer told SportsLine. “And while the answer seems almost too obvious, I’m expecting goals in this one, as both teams want to find that separation at the top of the table.” How to watch, live stream UEFA Champions League on Paramount+ Now that you know what to pick, get ready to watch the UEFA Champions League. Visit Paramount+ now to see UEFA Champions League action, your live local CBS sporting events, some of the world’s top soccer matchups and much more.

Metaverse Land Just Sold For $6,635 (5 ETH) In Decentraland – Adidas (OTC:ADDYY), Atari (OTC:PONGF) – Benzinga https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/metaverse-land-just-sold-for-6635-5-eth-in-decentraland-adidas-otcaddyy-atari-otcpongf-benzinga/ What happened: Virtual land tokenized as an NFT just sold for $6,635, which is 2.87x the current floor price of 1.74 Ethereum ETH/USD ($6,635 USD). The collection consists of over 97,000 plots of land –– at the current moment each plot Land parcels are 16m x 16m, or 52 square feet. Land in Decentraland and The Sandbox skyrocketed after Facebook’s rebrand to meta, as more investors become aware of what the metaverse is. Most of the time, virtual land sells at a premium due to the size of the lot and its proximity to the center of the metaverse. Ethereum’s blockchain is home to open world metaverses, with the 2 largest being Decentraland MANA/USD and The Sandbox SAND/USD. Brands like Adidas ADDYY and Atari PONGF have bought virtual land in these blockchain-based metaverses, and some companies believe that much of retail will eventually happen within the metaverse. The term metaverse is used to describe the evolution of human’s interaction with the internet. As we spend more and more of our time on the internet, the gap between the real world and our online identities declines. Eventually, the metaverse is intended to be an immersive virtual world where people enjoy digital ownership and can interact with their peers. Why it Matters: After Facebook FB announced its rebrand to Meta, investors began to pay attention to platforms that are building metaverses. Smart contract blockchains can secure ownership of digital assets, so these networks play a crucial role in building out the metaverse. See Also: NFT Release Calendar and Best NFT Projects of 2021 Data provided by OpenSea. Checkout the full The Sandbox collection You can learn more about this LAND here. This article was generated by Benzinga’s automated content engine and reviewed by an editor. © 2022 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. Visit Benzinga’s Crypto Homepage – 1,000,000+ depend on Benzinga Crypto every month

25 Early Beauty Deals At Amazon Ahead Of October Prime Day – TODAY https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/25-early-beauty-deals-at-amazon-ahead-of-october-prime-day-today/ In less than a week, there will be major deals for Amazon’s Prime Early Access Sale, which is a great chance to get a head start on your holiday shopping. According to Amazon, we can expect some amazing sales on customer-favorites, such as tech, home, fashion and of course, beauty. But you don’t have to wait until next week to score some awesome deals! The retailer has already slashed some prices on everyday beauty essentials. And with the change of season, now’s a good time to update your favorite lip colors or stock up on hydrating serums. Keep reading to see all of the top beauty deals we found ahead of Amazon’s Prime Early Access Sale. Early Prime Day hair deals Early Prime Day skin care deals Early Prime Day makeup deals Early Prime Day beauty gadget deals Early Prime Day hair deals Revlon One-Step Volumizer The bestselling hot air brush is on sale ahead of the Prime Day fall event. With over a whopping 250,000 five star ratings, the brand says this blow dryer will give salon results by styling and volumizing your locks without the damage. GK Hair Global Organic Argan Oil Anti-Frizz Serum If you’re looking to tame any frizz, this nourishing keratin and argan oil serum is perfect for all types of hair textures, says the brand. Right now you can save 50% off. Majestic Pure Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Avocado Coconut Conditioner Set Dermatologists say apple cider vinegar shampoo can do wonders for your hair and this 16-ounce bottle shampoo and conditioning set is currently under $23. According to the brand, the formula is meant to naturally hydrate and remove buildup from your hair and scalp. New York Biology Tea Tree Shampoo and Conditioner Set According to the brand, this tea tree oil infused shampoo and conditioning set is meant to target dandruff and relieve an itchy scalp. It has over 5,000 Amazon ratings and one verified reviewer wrote, “after my blow dry hair was so shiny, silky, and healthy looking. I’m thinking of using this a few days a week to help reduce build-up. “ Hot Tools Pro Signature 24K Gold Curling Iron If you’re looking to upgrade your beauty tools, now is the time. According to Amazon, this Hot Tools curling iron has been the lowest price in 30 days, which means you’re saving 46% off. The brand says the gold barrel will give you loose salon-worthy curls. OMOTean Hot Air Brush Save 34% on this professional hot air brush, which features three heat settings and 360 degree airflow. According to the brand, this hair dryer has ion technology to give you a “frizz-free blowout” without the damage. BabylissPro Nano Titanium Ultra-Thin Straightening Iron For an ultra-sleek straight do, the popular hair tool brand is currently marking down this straightening iron at 29% off. With over 13,500 Amazon ratings, the brand says this straightener heats up to 450 degrees for a quick, “pin-straight” style. Early Prime Day skin care deals Celor Gold Under Eye Patches Heading back into a fall routine can be exhausting; de-stress and de-puff with these gold- and collagen-infused under-eye patches. According to the brand, these eye masks are meant to relieve puffy eyes, dark circles and fine lines. Plus you can currently save 69% off the original price! Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash According to the brand, this dermatologist-recommended body wash will provide hydration to the driest skin. With over 49,00 five star ratings, one verified reviewer wrote “I loved this, left my skin very soft and the fragrance is so pleasant but light.” Being Naturals Organic Lavender Essential Oil Lavender essential oil has many therapeutic effects, says the brand. And they also mention it can be used in shampoos, diffusers and more. Right now, you can grab this 4-ounce bottle at 54% off. Image Skincare Vital C Hydrating Facial Cleanser This facial cleanser is packed with skin loving ingredients, like vitamin A, C and E. The brand says you can expect hydrating and anti-aging benefits with this formula. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum If you’re looking to add a retinol into your skin care routine, this CeraVe retinol serum has over 22,000 five star ratings. According to the brand, this non-greasy formula will help reduce the appearance of acne marks and pores. Plus it’s currently 33% off ahead of the Prime Early Access Sale. TruSkin Vitamin C Serum This bestselling anti-aging vitamin C serum is infused with vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. According to the brand, this serum is meant to enhance skin brightness, reduce dark spots and the appearance of fine lines. M3 Naturals Himalayan Salt Body Scrub Pamper yourself with a collagen-infused, Himalayan scrub. According to the brand, it can be used on your face, lips, body and feet and is meant to reduce the appearance of fine lines, shaving bumps, scarring and more. Early Prime Day makeup deals Haus Laboratories by Lady Gaga RIP Lip Liner This creamy lip liner comes in tons of rich colors and right now it is currently 65% off. One verified reviewer loves how it looks and wrote, “this lip liner is unlike other lip liners I’ve used. It can be used as a liner or a primer base filling in the entire lip under sheer lip glosses.” Haus Laboratories by Lady Gaga Le Riot Lip Gloss Pair your lip liner with a bold and shiny lip gloss from Haus Laboratories. It comes in a variety of shades and some colors even start at $4 — that’s 76% off! NYX Professional Makeup Mechanical Eye Pencil For under $5, you can grab this retractible eyeliner in black or a fun trendy color. According to the brand, the formula is smudge proof and lasts all day long. Maybelline New York Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick Coming in over 35 colors, you can save 20% off Maybelline matte liquid lipsticks. Not to mention it has over 81,000 Amazon ratings. One verified reviewer wrote, “It stays on for a long time, doesn’t smudge, and leaves my lips feeling moist. It is not dry or sticky, and that is what I like most about it.” Maybelline New York Sky High Mascara With over 100,000 Amazon ratings, the brand says this lengthening mascara is infused with bamboo extract and is ophthalmologist tested, making it good for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. iMethod Eyebrow Pen This eyebrow pen has a unique tip that’s meant to give hair-like strokes. Plus the brand says it’s smudge-proof and will stay for up to 24 hours. Stila Convertible Color Dual Lip and Cheek Cream According to the brand, this buildable tint is extremely creamy and can be used on both your lips and cheeks. Laura Geller New York Balance-N-Glow Color Correcting Foundation Save on premium beauty ahead of Prime Day with this color correcting foundation. Coming in 19 shades, the brand says this weightless formula will provide light to medium coverage. Early Prime Day beauty gadget deals Luxe Makeup Brush Cleaner Cleaning your makeup brushes can be a daunting task but this gadget makes the process quick and easy. This brush cleaning kit features a brush spinner, cleaner dock, brush collars and bowl. NuDerma Skin Therapy Wand Upgrade your skin care routine with this high frequency therapy wand. Coming with six different attachments, this device can be used to treat acne scarring, increase blood circulation and even reduce wrinkles and fine lines. PMD Clean Smart Facial Cleansing Device Take the entire day off your skin with this powerful cleansing tool. According to the brand, the “sonic glow technology” will remove the toughest dirts and impurities, leaving you with your cleanest skin yet.

Bitwise Launches New Web3 ETF As Crypto Markets Rebound – Cryptonews https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/bitwise-launches-new-web3-etf-as-crypto-markets-rebound-cryptonews/ Source: AdobeStock/24K-Production Hoping to capitalize on the rebounding crypto markets, San Francisco-based crypto index fund provider Bitwise has rolled out BWEB, a new Web3 exchange-traded fund (ETF). ETFs are financial instruments that trade on an exchange like stock, but track a specific market or asset, such as bitcoin (BTC). “Today, many experts believe we’re on the cusp of a major evolution in the core architecture of the internet,” Matt Hougan, Bitwise’s Chief Investment Officer, said in a statement. “With the Bitwise Web3 ETF, we’re excited to give investors the opportunity to capture one of the fastest-emerging themes in technology through a diverse mix of companies that we believe will lead the charge.”  “More than 85% of the index is comprised of ‘pure-play’ companies directly linked to Web3 themes and business activities,” the statement said. A factsheet presenting the product states that, as of October 4, the ETF’s top ten holdings included crypto exchange Coinbase, online gaming platform Roblox, data center specialist Equinix, game developer Unity Software, Facebook’s parent company Meta Platforms, social media platform Twitter, online retail specialist Shopify, networking and cyber-security business Cloudflare, game developer Electronic Arts, and game publisher Take-Two Interactive. With more than $1.3 billion in assets under management, the San Francisco-based firm says it is one of the largest crypto asset managers in the market. BWEB trades on the NYSE Arca, a U.S. securities exchange on which exchange-traded products (ETPs) and equities are listed. The Bank of New York Mellon is the ETF’s custodian and administrator, according to data from Bitwise.

U.S. Steps Away From Flagship Lithium Project With Berkshire – Reuters.com https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/u-s-steps-away-from-flagship-lithium-project-with-berkshire-reuters-com/ Oct 5 (Reuters) – In a February meeting with mining executives, President Joe Biden laid out an aggressive goal for the United States to produce more of its own minerals for the electric vehicle revolution in ways that respected the environment. A “big part” of those efforts, the president said, was Berkshire Hathaway Inc’s (BRKa.N) plan to filter lithium from superhot geothermal brines swirling beneath California’s Salton Sea, something that had never been done before. The project aimed to help usher in a new way of producing lithium – a key constituent of EV batteries – in the United States while avoiding the controversies that come with building mines that are often unpopular with local communities. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com The U.S. Department of Energy had chosen Berkshire the day Biden was inaugurated in January 2021 for a $14.9 million grant to study how Salton Sea-region lithium could be used to make lithium hydroxide, a specialized type of the metal that produces more efficient and longer-lasting EV batteries. “We’re going to set America up to lead the world by building a clean energy economy and a clean energy future,” Biden said at the February event, which was billed as a critical minerals roundtable. Alicia Knapp, chief executive of Berkshire’s BHE Renewables division, told Biden that Berkshire was “working to secure the most abundant source of lithium in the United States using the world’s most environmentally friendly technology.” Two weeks later, though, the Energy Department rescinded the grant, according to emails and documents obtained by Reuters, after Berkshire requested what the Energy Department called a “material change” to its lithium project. The withdrawal of the grant has not been previously reported. While the sum of money was relatively small for the mining world and the Salton Sea grant was for a pilot project, the tale of Berkshire’s tangle with Washington shows how Biden’s plan to shift the economy away from fossil fuels faces some significant technical and business challenges. Thirteen months of negotiations between the company and the government, which Reuters is reporting for the first time, stalled as Berkshire sought control over patents, changes to technology, and whether it could one day sell the lithium business, even after the government helped build it, the emails and documents show. Asked about the grant withdrawal, a Biden administration official said there are “inherent risks” in funding research and development projects, and noted that several companies including Berkshire are still working on U.S. lithium projects. The Energy Department’s March 9, 2022, letter telling Berkshire it was rescinding the grant said the move was “the result of a mutual decision” and would not bar Berkshire from applying for future federal funding. Berkshire, however, is facing problems extracting lithium from Salton Sea geothermal brines, according to three sources with direct knowledge of the operation who declined to be identified so as not to jeopardize future relationships with the company. In a statement to Reuters, Berkshire said it had planned to develop “a first-of-its-kind demonstration plant to produce lithium hydroxide” but “subsequently decided to use a commercially proven process” to produce lithium carbonate instead. “This change in technology increases the likelihood of success and accelerates the speed to market,” Berkshire spokesperson Dan Winters said. The company declined to comment for other parts of this story. ‘NASTY, HOT SOUP’ Berkshire operates multiple power plants near the Salton Sea, roughly 160 miles (258 km) southeast of Los Angeles, where it flashes steam off brines brought from deep underground at temperatures around 700°F (371°C) to spin turbines that produce electricity. In theory, Berkshire’s plan made sense. Technology for an extra processing step could be connected to one of the existing plants to extract lithium before the brine is reinjected underground. That would avoid the need for open-pit mines or large evaporation ponds, the two most-common but environmentally challenging ways to extract lithium. From the start, Berkshire’s challenge was twofold. First, it needed to separate lithium from that hot brine using a commercially unproven class of technology known as Direct Lithium Extraction, or DLE. Then it aimed to develop new technology to process that lithium into lithium hydroxide. For the first challenge, the California Energy Commission gave Berkshire a $6 million grant in May 2020. As part of its agreement with the state, Berkshire said it would use DLE technology from another company, AquaMin Lithium and Water Recovery Inc. But corroded equipment and clogged pipes from the superhot brine are plaguing the extraction operation, according to the three sources with direct knowledge. “I think Berkshire has an unsolvable problem,” said one source, who described the facility struggling to get even the most basic processing equipment to work due to the extreme heat of the geothermal brines. AquaMin, a division of privately held Conductive Energy Inc, did not respond to requests for comment. The California Energy Commission (CEC) said its funding for Berkshire was not affected by the loss of the Energy Department grant. The region’s brine teems with lithium, calcium, sodium and other minerals that are very complex to separate, said Corby Anderson, who teaches metallurgy at the Colorado School of Mines. “It’s just a nasty, hot soup that’s sometimes acidic,” said Anderson, who is not involved in Berkshire’s project. The U.S. Department of Energy grant was focused on the second challenge, turning the extracted lithium into lithium hydroxide. BMW (BMWG.DE) and some other automakers prefer hydroxide over carbonate because it allows batteries to hold more power. “Batteries should last longer and therefore be more sustainable” with hydroxide, Eric Smith, Berkshire’s vice president of lithium development, said during a July 2021 presentation to Salton Sea-region officials. But making hydroxide requires extra processing involving crystallizers and other specialized equipment. If and when Berkshire is able to extract the lithium from the Salton Sea brine, making carbonate would be less complicated and expensive than making hydroxide. The day after Biden touted Berkshire’s project, the company privately asked the Energy Department to change the grant’s scope and let it make carbonate instead of hydroxide, according to the emails obtained by Reuters through a public records request. The Energy Department declined, saying that would be a “substantial departure” from the original proposal and would be unfair to others who applied for the grant. Within weeks the grant was rescinded. Emails show the Energy Department had warned Berkshire in December 2021 – two months before Biden’s minerals roundtable – that talks on grant terms had reached an “impasse.” While the White House was aware negotiations were ongoing when it hosted Berkshire, it did not know about the impasse warning, according to the administration official. “We remain optimistic and hopeful that (Berkshire’s) technology pans out and think there’s great opportunity if and when it does,” the official said. Berkshire’s website now says it aims to open a lithium carbonate pilot plant next spring. Berkshire’s decision not to make hydroxide from the Salton Sea – and to forego the federal funding for that – indicates it likely faced far more complex technical challenges than it expected, four analysts told Reuters. “It’s an indication to me that they have some real challenges standing in their path to commercial lithium production,” said Chris Berry, an independent lithium industry consultant who is not involved in Berkshire’s project Privately held Controlled Thermal Resources Ltd and EnergySource Minerals LLC are also trying to extract lithium from Salton Sea brines with different DLE technology for eventual use in EV batteries, but neither are at commercial production. “The magic here is elusive,” said Anderson, the Colorado professor. “It’s not as easy as people portray it to be.” Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Ernest Scheyder in Houston; additional reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt in Washington; editing by Peter Henderson and Claudia Parsons Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. Ernest Scheyder Thomson Reuters Covers the future of energy and transportation including electric vehicle and battery technology, with a focus on lithium, copper, cobalt, rare earths and other minerals, politics, policy, etc. Previously covered the oil and natural gas, including a stint living in North Dakota’s Bakken shale oil patch.

MSP M&A: Blue Line Technologies Acquires Computer Wranglers – ChannelE2E https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/msp-ma-blue-line-technologies-acquires-computer-wranglers-channele2e/ by Ty Trumbull • Oct 5, 2022 IT services provider Blue Line Technologies has acquired IT managed services provider Computer Wranglers for an undisclosed sum. This is technology M&A deal number 867 that ChannelE2E has covered so far in 2022. See more than 2,000 technology M&A deals involving MSPs, MSSPs & IT service providers listed here. Blue Line Acquires Computer Wranglers Blue Line Technologies, founded in 2000, is based in Charlotte, North Carolina. The company has 10 employees listed on LinkedIn. Blue Line’s areas of expertise include Apple product support and services, backup and disaster recovery, managed desktop support, advisory and consulting services, hosting, VOIP installation, cybersecurity, information technology and IT. Computer Wranglers, founded in 2019, is based in Garner, North Carolina. The company has five employees listed on LinkedIn. Computer Wrangler’s areas of expertise include information technology. This acquisition increases Blue Line’s technical staff, according to the company. The Computer Wranglers team will join Blue Line and continue to provide support to existing clients, the company said. Blue Line Acquires Computer Wranglers: Strategic Growth Jeff Sagraves, president, Blue Line Technologies This is Blue Line Technologies’ third acquisition since 2019 and part of the company’s ongoing growth strategy within the Southeastern United States. Previous deals included South Carolina-based full-service IT support provider MCM Network Systems and Converged Communications Technologies, a voice and data center cabling services provider from Concord, North Carolina. Jeff Sagraves, president, Blue Line Technologies, commented on the latest acquisition: “We are delighted to have the Computer Wranglers team and clients join Blue Line. The Raleigh area is one of the fastest growing regions in the country. The highly experienced new team members fit well into our strategy of becoming one of leading providers of technology support services in the Southeast, securing the future for a safer and smarter tomorrow.”

Charitable Gaming Creates Hunting Opportunities | News Dakota – Newsdakota.com https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/charitable-gaming-creates-hunting-opportunities-news-dakota-newsdakota-com/ BISMARCK, N.D. (CGAND) – Charitable gaming has a significant, positive impact on every town, city, and county in North Dakota and affords many opportunities for the people of our state through beneficiary organizations. At nearly 30 years old, the NoDak Sportsmen’s Club has existed for as long as charitable gaming has in North Dakota. They were one of the very first charities to benefit from the proceeds of charitable gaming and still benefit to this day. “We are a community-based organization. Our mission is to promote the outdoors, youth sports and to help the needy,” explains gaming manager Jeff Burns. Money from charitable gaming has allowed the NoDak Sportsmen’s Club to start an outdoor program near Flasher, ND to provide hunting opportunities for youth and veterans. The group hosted its first youth pheasant hunt on Oct. 1-2 and will host their second veteran’s pheasant hunt this weekend during the opener. Learn more about the NoDak Sportsmen’s Club outdoor program on the CGAND website. Follow CGAND on Facebook  to stay informed on the ways charitable gaming benefits all North Dakotans. CGAND is composed of small and large organizations across this state who are dedicated to the preservation of gaming as a funding source for charitable purposes.

Former Eastern Washington Jail Guard Going To Prison For Smuggling Drugs, Phones To Inmates – Centralia Chronicle https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/former-eastern-washington-jail-guard-going-to-prison-for-smuggling-drugs-phones-to-inmates-centralia-chronicle/ Annette Cary / Tri-City Herald  A former officer at the Benton County jail who smuggled drugs and cellphones to inmates was sentenced in federal court to three years and 10 months in prison on Tuesday. Eric Christian, 34, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to provide prohibited objects to an inmate between December 2019 and April 2020. He had worked at the jail since August 2016 and had worked for the Washington state Department of Corrections for seven years. He is accused of providing inmates in the jail in Kennewick with heroin, methamphetamine, marijuana and Suboxone, a prescription drug that can be used for pain but that also is a treatment for opioid addiction. He also is suspected of allowing or encouraging fights between inmates, including by sharing confidential information with inmates and purposely leaving cell doors open. Drugs and cellphones Christian gave to inmates were provided to him by three women in the community, one the girlfriend of Alejandro Leon, an inmate who was in the Benton County jail on federal drug charges. “Mr. Christian was charged with protecting our community, and he breached that trust by providing dangerous criminals and gang members with access to illegal narcotics and unmonitored cellphones in the Benton County jail,” said U.S. Attorney Vanessa Waldref. But Christian’s actions in accepting money to break the law and expose inmates at the jail to drugs and violence is the exception, not the rule, she said. “We maintain a high level of expectations of those in law enforcement,” said Benton County Sheriff Tom Croskrey. “When these standards are compromised and criminal conduct occurs, we will hold these individuals accountable.” U.S. Judge Stanley Bastian noted during the sentencing in Yakima that Christian not only allowed phones and drugs into the jail, threatening the safety of inmates, but was directly responsible for allowing other inmates to be targeted and assaulted. “This abuse of trust” and Christian’s “turning a blind eye” when other inmates were assaulted, shook the very core of a system that “depends on correctional officers to keep inmates safe,” he said. Bastian said he will recommend that Christian serve time in an East Coast federal prison for his protection. Request for lighter sentence The sentence the judge handed down was at the bottom of the standard sentencing range of three years and 10 months to four years and nine months. But Christian’s attorney, Troy J. Lee of Yakima, had asked the judge for less time. He argued in court documents that Christian had a difficult childhood, including his father’s death by suicide and later abuse, but had gone on to serve in the Navy and had no criminal history. Although it is difficult to make sense of why Christian smuggled contraband into the prison, “partial answers lie in Mr. Christian’s mental health,” according to his attorney. Christian has had contact with the Department of Veterans Affairs for mental health issues and has been on medications in the past, said his attorney. It is unlikely that Christian will reoffend, his attorney said in court documents. Mop closet was cell drop Two inmates served as confidential informants in the case. One said that one morning before breakfast Christian went into a mop closet with a bag of rags containing phones and drugs. He told inmate Lance Horntvedt the phones were in the closet and Horntvedt retrieved them, according to court documents. Horntvedt was a Tri-Cities gang leader who was sentenced in May to 25 years in prison for forcing women through threats and violence to provide sex for money. He is also a defendant in the inmate contraband case, but has not been sentenced yet. Horntvedt is accused of receiving contraband, keeping some for himself and distributing the rest to Leon and two other inmates, Joel Cervantes and Giovanni Kinsey. In another incident, a jail officer saw Leon carry a manila envelope into the jail’s law library and unplug a computer there, according to a court document. The officer later found a phone charger plugged into the outlet that had been used for the computer and a cellphone was found in the manila envelope. When inmates were scheduled to be moved, Christian alerted them that they should get rid of anything they were not supposed to have, one confidential informant said. Jail inmate assaults One of the confidential informants said Christian also let inmates know which inmates were ordered to be kept separate for their own safety. One informant told officials that Christian would open the doors to sex offenders’ cells and tell other inmates to, “Do what you got to do.” The other informant said Christian purposely left an inmate’s cell door open to allow an assault by fellow gang members over a perceived wrongdoing as a gang member. The attackers’ cell also was left open. Christian deflected knowledge of the assault by grabbing the law library cart and leaving the area, according to the confidential informant. The inmate later was seen to have injuries to his face, including a black eye. When a different inmate said that Christian had allowed the assault, Christian let other inmates go through his belongings and take what they wanted. The informant said Christian was laughing and said, “He ain’t got nothing left up in there.” Other sentencings In addition to Horntvedt and Christian, five other defendants in the jail contraband case have been sentenced. Leon received a five-year sentence, which was in connection with another case that also was resolved. Cervantes was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison. Kinsey was sentenced to time served. Two of the three women who provided items to smuggle into the jail, Alyssa Cantu and Marilou Martinez, were sentenced to time served. The third woman, Tiffanie Sanders, has not been sentenced. The case was investigated by the U.S. Marshal’s Service, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Tri-Cities Task Force and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. Stephanie Van Marter, assistant U.S. attorney, prosecuted the case. “It is unacceptable for a public official to violate their responsibility and position of community trust,” said U.S. Marshal Craig Thayer. “Law enforcement will not tolerate the very few who dishonor their badge, as the vast majority continue to serve with honor and integrity.”

Disney Has Released All 2022 Holiday Offerings For Walt Disney World – The DIS https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/disney-has-released-all-2022-holiday-offerings-for-walt-disney-world-the-dis/ We have finally made it to October, so it is time to start talking about the holidays at Walt Disney World. Let’s see what each park will be doing to celebrate the winter holiday season. Magic Kingdom Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – A beloved holiday event is returning in 2022! Join Mickey for a festive celebration with live entertainment, spectacular fireworks, an oh-so-jolly parade, and more—select nights in November and December. Separate admission is required for this special event. Castle Projections – Watch in awe as Cinderella Castle is transformed with cheerful holiday projections. Which rotate with the Beacon of Magic projections (presented on nights when Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is not offered).  Seasonal Décor – Explore holly, jolly trimmings, and theming throughout Main Street, U.S.A. Limited-Time Treats – Indulge in holiday-inspired food and beverages available for purchase at select locations. As you can see, we will enter another holiday season without the Dreamlights on Cinderella Castle. This makes me sad because that’s my favorite part of Magic Kingdoms holiday celebration. EPCOT EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth – Beginning November 25, 2022, surround yourself with seasonal sights, sounds and flavors during a beloved extravaganza boasting themed Holiday Kitchens and a scrumptious Holiday Cookie Stroll. Candlelight Processional – Hear the stirring story of Christmas presented by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by an orchestra and massed choir—nightly from November 25 to December 30. Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Overlay – This season, the Guardians are trading in their classic hits playlist for a mash-up of seasonal jams at Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. Blast off to the tune of an awesome holiday single, bringing joy to Xandar and Terra, too. More Holiday Entertainment – Behold heartwarming performances around World Showcase, including Canadian Holiday Voyageurs, Las Posadas with Mariachi Cobre, the Chinese Lion Dance, and holiday storytellers. The holidays at EPCOT are the best out of the four parks, in my opinion, because they showcase how each culture celebrates its holidays. The food for the Festival of the Holidays is always top tier; it’s my favorite festival. Hollywood Studios Sunset Seasons Greetings – Gaze in wonder as the Hollywood Tower Hotel is transformed nightly by holiday projections, alternating with the Beacon of Magic. Minnie’s Holiday Dine at Hollywood & Vine – Don’t miss Minnie’s merry mealtime at this popular restaurant. Reservations are strongly recommended. Santa Claus Motorcade – Catch the Santa Claus Merry Motorcade, where old St. Nick will travel up Hollywood Blvd. in his candy-apple red convertible, packed with a sack of presents! For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration – Look forward to an unforgettable holiday finale featuring everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf. Dazzling Holiday Décor – Discover seasonal style at every turn—including special holiday touches in Toy Story Land. Are you looking for the best Christmas decorations at Walt Disney World? Hollywood Studios is where you will find them. Especially Gertie wearing a little Santa hat; it’s the cutest decoration at WDW. Animal Kingdom Merry Menagerie – Delight in winter wonders as Discovery Island springs to life with artisan-sculpted puppets of arctic animals—like penguins, reindeer, foxes, and polar bears. Santa Claus Festive Flotilla – See Santa Claus as he sails down the Discovery River to a jolly, world-beat holiday soundtrack. Discovery Island Drummers Festive Flotilla – Feel the beat as a colorful group of percussionists cruise along the Discovery River, entertaining Guests like you on the shore.  Tree of Life Awakenings – Holiday Edition, where our beloved tree shimmers and sparkles each evening, accompanied by a heartwarming musical score. Animal Kingdom also has holiday-themed decor throughout the park, so keep an eye out for that. The Merry Menagerie is a creative and beautiful holiday experience you can’t get in any other park. Disney Springs Special Entertainment – Meet Santa and enjoy festive holiday tunes with live musical performances and DJs. Plus, encounter Toy Soldier Stilt Walkers and Snowflake Skaters.  Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth – Discover Christmas around every corner as you come across a collection of elaborately decorated Disney Christmas trees throughout the neighborhoods of Disney Springs. Let It Snow! – Flurries are in the forecast for Disney Springs Town Center. In the evenings, delight in a magical snowfall, adding an extra touch of wonder to your holiday shopping.  Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar – Decked out for the season, this restaurant-meets-lounge offers a fun holiday take on its menu, eye-catching décor, and more. At Disney Springs, my favorite offering is the Christmas Tree Stroll. I have done this every year for my birthday since it started because it’s just so fun to see all the trees. The trees continue to amaze me each year with how much effort and detail is put into them. What is your favorite holiday offering at Walt Disney World? Let us know in the comments. Erica Resnick Hi! My name is Erica. Disney is a massive part of my life, and so is writing. I love spending my off days in the parks, capturing pictures, and trying snacks. I have always loved writing, so putting together the two things I love is a dream come true. RELATED POSTS: Monday Merch Meeting: Holiday Merch, EPCOT 40th, Hanukkah & More! Holiday Kitchens for 2022 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Have Been Announced Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party & More Returning in 2022 Fun Treats to Celebrate Halfway to the Holidays at Walt Disney World %

Priciest Home Sales In Setauket – Long Island Business News https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/priciest-home-sales-in-setauket-long-island-business-news/ Get our free LIBN e-alerts & breaking news notifications! 1 Lemark Court Setauket / OneKey MLS photo By: David Winzelberg October 5, 2022 Priciest home sales in Setauket (11733)  September 2022  The three highest-priced home sales in Setauket last month ranged from $1.075 million to $1.5 million.  The priciest Setauket home sold in September was a 6-bedroom, 5.5-bath colonial on .89 acres at 1 Lemark Court that sold for $1.5 million in cash. It was listed by Gina Amen and Octavius Amen of American Real Estate Associates and sold by Jin Tao of Realty Connect USA LI and Huailing Deng of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty.  A 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath post-modern on .99 acres at 14 Indian Valley Road fetched $1.299 million in cash. It was listed and sold by Yaffa Stegemann of Douglas Elliman Real Estate.  At 37 Varsity Blvd., a 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath ranch on .58 acres went for $1.075 million. It was listed by Michael Ardolino and Lisa Godt of Realty Connect USA LI and sold by Joyce Mennella and Elena D’Agostino of Lucky to Live Here Realty.  Source: OneKeyMLS.com  × Enjoy This Free Article We Have 2 More For You All You Need To Do Is Register To Receive Your 2 Additional Free Articles

How Poor Gut Health Can Increase Anxiety And Depression Risk & What To Eat To Help – EatingWell https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/how-poor-gut-health-can-increase-anxiety-and-depression-risk-what-to-eat-to-help-eatingwell/ Even in grade school, you probably knew that there was some link between your stomach and your brain. Remember those butterflies you felt when you saw your crush? Or the stomach-in-knots feeling that flared up when you were in trouble? “Stress can play a major role in tummy troubles, even initiating symptoms when there are no changes in diet. But people are often pretty surprised to learn that a whopping 90% of the communication between the brain and the gut is actually moving from the gut to the brain,” explains Desiree Nielsen, RD, a Vancouver, Canada-based registered dietitian and the author of Good for Your Gut. Read on to learn more about the extensive conversation between your gut and your brain (aka the “gut-brain axis”), how less-than-stellar gut health can impact your mood, plus the best foods to feed your brain and good gut bacteria all at once. The Gut-Brain Axis and Mental Health When most of us think of our nervous system, we think of our brain and spinal cord; however, the digestive tract has a complex nervous system of its own. The enteric (or gut) nervous system actually has more nerve cells than our spinal cord, Nielsen says. Those nerves come into play when we eat a meal. Stretch receptors in our stomach activate and relay messages to the brain that we are getting full. It’s not only nerves that play a role here, though. Our gut microbiota, the trillions-strong bacterial population that lives within our guts, is another major factor in the gut-brain connection, too. “The type of bacteria living in our gut may impact motility, digestive secretions, inflammation and even neurotransmitter production in our digestive tracts,” Nielsen adds. There’s one neurotransmitter, in particular, that’s made in high supply in the gut: serotonin, often referred to as the “feel good” neurotransmitter. A whopping 95% of our body’s serotonin is made in our guts, not our brains, says Mike Hoaglin, M.D., the San Francisco-based medical director of the telehealth company DrHouse. When our healthy gut bacteria are fed well, they send signals to the brain that help influence our mood, confirms William W. Li, M.D., an internal medicine physician and scientist in Boston and the author of Eat to Beat Disease: The New Science of How Your Body Can Heal Itself. When our guts are happy, the brain responds by releasing mood-boosting hormones like the aforementioned serotonin, plus dopamine and oxytocin. “These hormones are important for improving our mood, so what we feed ourselves literally influences how we feel,” Li says. In the short term, poor gut health interferes with signals sent to the brain. Over time, “dysbiosis,” or an imbalance of gut bacteria, can also lead to chronic inflammation. “When our body has high levels of inflammation, this can also affect the function of our brain, including cognition, mood and irritability,” Li says. While it’s not the only factor or cause, a July 2020 study published in Neuron suggests that chronic inflammation plays a role in depression. Inflammation is an immune system response, and since 70% of the immune activity in the body happens in the gut, it stands to reason that when gut health is not so, well, healthy, our body responds in a wide variety of ways. “In the ‘leaky gut’ model, the inflammatory response causes microscopic holes in the gut wall, thereby allowing toxins and microbes to enter the bloodstream. These toxins may directly irritate the brain or indirectly by improperly activating the immune system. Some of the compounds released by helpful gut bacteria nourish the blood-brain barrier,” Hoaglin says. Because your gut function depends on—and has effects on—your immune and nervous system function, long-term changes in gut health may impact your mental well-being, Nielsen summarizes. It’s challenging to tell if it’s the chicken or the egg, Nielsen adds. Digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease have been associated with increased rates of anxiety and depression. “While the mechanisms are not fully understood, it’s likely a combination of the negative impact on quality of life, as well as inflammatory and nervous system effects in the gut itself,” Nielsen says. “In one review, people who had both IBS and depression or anxiety had distinctly different microbiomes than those with IBS alone. People with undiagnosed celiac disease may experience brain fog from the significant inflammation and gut barrier changes that occur while the disease process is ongoing.” Everyday digestive symptoms such as bloating and constipation can affect your mood in smaller ways as well. Regardless of what’s going on, “if you don’t feel good or are worried about your health, your mood will suffer. Temporary changes in gut function can make you feel sluggish, lethargic or foggy but should resolve when the gut symptoms have passed,” Nielsen says. Since it’s becoming so clear that what we eat can affect our mental health and increase the risk for anxiety, depression, brain fog, a down mood and so much more, there’s now an entire field dedicated to what our mouths (and microbiomes and minds) consume: nutritional psychiatry, per a 2019 article published in European Neuropsychopharmacology. What to Eat to Boost Your Mood It’s crucial to note that there’s no one food or diet that can completely cure or prevent a mental health condition. Any treatment program for anxiety or depression should include guidance from a mental health provider. What you eat can support your less-stressed, brighter-mood strategy, though. “There are so many factors we don’t have control over, such as stress. But many of us have the opportunity to make healthier food choices,” Nielsen says. “Without a doubt, one of the most important things you can do to nourish the gut-brain connection is to eat more whole plant foods, which are rich in fiber and phytochemicals. Research hints that dietary fiber from whole plant foods can help to nourish the gut-brain connection in multiple ways: from boosting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, to improving gut barrier function and minimizing inflammation.” Plants, probiotics (good bacteria) and prebiotics (which feed the good gut bacteria) are all smart choices for your stomach—and your spirits. So add these nine expert-recommended items to your next shopping list: Blueberries Pears Kiwis Jerusalem artichokes Greek yogurt Chia seeds Lentils Walnuts Sauerkraut The Bottom Line There’s a growing stack of scientific evidence to support the existence of a speedy interstate connecting the gut and the brain, so it’s safe to say that the foods we eat can definitely affect our mental health. These best foods for gut health are not a magic pill to remedy depression, anxiety or a ho-hum mood, but eating more fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, probiotics and prebiotics certainly can’t hurt as part of the Rx to help ease inflammation, tame stress and anxiety and potentially (eventually) boost your mood.

Pop Warner Football, Oct. 5, 2022 | Local Sports News | Hmbreview.com – Half Moon Bay Review https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/pop-warner-football-oct-5-2022-local-sports-news-hmbreview-com-half-moon-bay-review/ Post a comment as anonymous Welcome to the discussion. Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Don’t Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated. Be Truthful. Don’t knowingly lie about anyone or anything. Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person. Be Proactive. Use the ‘Report’ link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts. Share with Us. We’d love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article. By Emma Spaeth May 17, 2022 The Half Moon Bay beach volleyball team was up for some tough competition on May 8 at the In… Emma Spaeth By Emma Spaeth Updated May 10, 2022 One word to describe the new 0.42-mile track at Pescadero High School is “serene.” Walking a… Emma Spaeth By Emma Spaeth May 10, 2022 The Peninsula Athletic League has bestowed All-League honors on Half Moon Bay High School wi… Emma Spaeth By Emma Spaeth May 3, 2022 Half Moon Bay High School athletics fun goes beyond the playing fields; Cougar Boosters also… Emma Spaeth By Lily McGraw May 3, 2022 Locals glad to be on course By Emma Spaeth May 3, 2022 Rivals Terra Nova, HMB face off in final regular season match Emma Spaeth Become an Advocate today! Receive full access to Half Moon Bay Review all day, everyday.

Introducing Polybius: Uncovering The Metaverse In Hospitality – Hospitality Net https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/introducing-polybius-uncovering-the-metaverse-in-hospitality-hospitality-net/ After the success of #HNmetameetup, the first-ever Travel and Hospitality gathering in the Metaverse, Hospitality Net and Simone Puorto, futurist and founder of the consulting firm Travel Singularity, are back with a brand new metaverse series: Polybius. “I started thinking of a new name for a new metaverse series the exact same day we finished moderating the HN meta meetup.” Simone Puorto said. “I came up with probably 100 different monickers, but nothing seemed right until I remembered an urban myth from my childhood. The legend is about a mysterious arcade machine (Polybius), which is said to have psychoactive and addictive effects on the players. Polybius is also the name of a Greek historian, famous for inventing a cryptography tool. I thought: Bingo! Cryptography, gaming, mystery… All in one single word.” “HN meta meetup was an unexpected success,” added Henri Roelings, founder of Hospitality Net. “We went live for ten straight hours, with 30 C-level speakers from all around the World, and thousands of participants, both in 2D and as avatars. We had five people moderating the event, plus a whole crew of metaverse tech people making sure everything was working fine. Up until the end, I kept thinking: something will break, something will break, something will break. But nothing did. We had a few glitches here and there, and one speaker got lost in the metaverse… But we were able to pull it off. When I removed my headset, I felt ten years older but excited. No one had ever organized anything like that before, at least not in the Hospitality space. I really felt like a pioneer. It was like setting up my first website in the mid-90s.” Polybius: Uncovering The Metaverse In Hospitality Polybius will be launched on October 19th at 5:00 PM CET. Every month, three innovators from the travel and metaverse world will join Simone for a virtual roundtable about topics such as Web3, NFT, crypto, blockchain, DAO, XR, and their current and future applications in our industry. Polybius’ panelists are the very same people reshaping the metaverse economy: academics, researchers, entrepreneurs, and scientists from all over the World united to create the ultimate meta-all-stars-group. Episode 1: October 19, 5:00 PM CET Introduction to the Metaverse: from sci-fi to a 5-trillion-dollar industry A recent report by McKinsey indicates that the metaverse’s economic potential could be up to five trillion dollars by 2030. However, while most people think the metaverse concept only started with Zuckerberg’s rebrand, innovators and visionaries have been flirting with the idea since the ’80s, first in the minds of cyberpunk novelists (such as Gibson, Vinge, or Stephenson), then in the ones of scientists and philosophers (Gelernter, Chalmers), and, eventually, technocapitalists. However, outside of the inner circle of the “usual suspects,” metaverse was a pretty esoteric term before 2021 (as this Google Trends proves). So how has a dystopian novel turned into a trillion-dollar industry almost overnight? Episode 2: November 16, 5:00 PM CET An open metaverse for an open, decentralized industry According to the World Economic Forum, a working metaverse has three key components: presence, interoperability, and standardization. While virtual and augmented experiences get more immersive by the day, interoperability and standardization should be wired into the metaverse’s DNA from day one, to avoid silos and walled gardens. So how can we construct the foundation of an open, utopic metaverse in which the travel and hospitality industries can flourish without being paralyzed by the same Web 2.0 paradigms? Episode 3: December 21, 5:00 PM CET From “Avatar” to “Wallet”: the definitive metaverse glossary for dummies If companies want to get into the metaverse business, they first must master the “metaverse lingo.” It’s easy to get lost in translation, with dozens of brand new mysterious acronyms (NFT, DAO, DeFi…) and business neologisms (mining, minting, dropping, burning…). We’ll go over all the main terms entrepreneurs need to understand to separate the hype from the business reality of the metaverse. Episode 4: January 18, 5:00 PM CET Business applications of the metaverse: what you need to know In this episode, now that you know a little more about the metaverse, we’ll go over some authentic business applications. From i(immersive) Commerce, to B2A (Business-to-Avatar) marketing, from the “datafication of everything” to the “Infinity Marketing Loop.” Real case studies from the industry. Episode 5: February 15, 5:00 PM CET Marketing for Generation Alpha: how to position your brand in the metaverse? Generation Alpha is the first to be born entirely in a digital world. Unfortunately, our current advertising paradigms won’t likely work with this demographic cohort. When, to paraphrase David Chalmers, the simulation is so good that it will be “indistinguishable” from physical reality, companies will have to adapt their strategies to target the traveler and consumer of tomorrow. Will hospitality be the “metaverse innovator” or the “metaverse laggard?” Polybius: Uncovering The Metaverse In Hospitality— Source: Hospitality Net Follow POLYBIUS on LinkedIn Confirmed Speakers & Panelists: Dr Mark van Rijmenam -International keynote speaker, 4x author, and entrepreneur. Zoltan Istvan – Public Figure in Transhumanism Arul Prakash – CEO, Buk.Technology Gualtiero Carraro – Owner & Founder at Carraro LAB Roberto Garavaglia – Innovative Payments and blockchain Strategic Advisor Tibor Mérey – Managing Director & Partner at Boston Consulting Group Riadi Piacentini – CEO & Founder ThinkLegal | TL Metaverse Accelerator Hasan Algarhy – Founder at Duverse Edoardo Maria Bisignani – Chief Operating Officer at Vision Lior Nitzan – Co-Founder & CTO of GetSound.Ai & Soundscape.City Andrea Brogni – VR/AR Project Manager at Alkedo Mattia Papa – Web3 Island Makers DAO Co-Founder & Community Lead | New Governance Systems Pioneer Luca De Giglio – Founder of Trips Community and Web3 Consultant Eli Strzelecka – Co-Founder at Conspicuis Pulidevan Prabakaran – Marketing Manager at Whoa Mama Salman Halawi – Founder at Metadesignerz Brian Vertone – Project Manager at Walcon Virtual Julius Yls – CCO and Co-Founder at Spongelli Sergio Schemeil – Metaverse creator specialized in Meta Horizon Worlds platform Justyn Czekański – Strategic Innovation Lead at Si Consulting Ludovic Baron – Digital Artist & Director Michael Cohen – Managing Partner at GAIN Advisors Celia Guimaraes – Journalist Massimiliano Nicolini – Director of the Olimaint Research and Development Department and member of the Metaverse Standard Forum Tracy Cosgrove – Hospitality Consultant Ulrike Gretzel – Senior Research Fellow, Center for Public Relations, University of Southern California & Director of Research, Netnografica Simone Puorto – Founder at Travel Singularity Henri Roelings – Founder at Hospitality Net About Travel Singularity Travel Singularity is a consultancy firm for hotels and travel technology providers whose vision is to solve the growing need for connecting the dots between digital disruption and existing technology. Founded in 2017 as a partnership of educational consultants, the firm actively supports cooperation between biological and artificial staff and advocates for an open, collaborative, hyper-connected industry where humans can flourish and innovate, free from the repetitive tasks they are now obliged to perform daily. Its founder, Simone Puorto, is a journalist specializing in tech, keynote speaker, podcaster, consultant, published author of four best sellers on marketing, writer for the main industry blogs, Metaverse Ambassador, co-organizer of the first-ever travel and hospitality event in the metaverse (#HNmetameetup), crypto evangelist, MBA lecturer and CMO for TelltheHotel and E23 Delivery. He often refers to himself as a “Renaissance Futurist,” supporting post-human, anti-speciesists, and transhumanist values. Over his career, spanning over 20 years, he consulted for hundreds of international hotel groups, travel tech vendors, and startups. More information at www.travelsingularity.com. About Hospitality Net Hospitality Net is the #1 ranked website for the global hospitality community. Recognized as the most influential industry trade (B2B) publication, Hospitality Net attracts the largest number of unique visitors, page views and targeted subscribers through its unparalleled network of sites and partners. Since its inception in 1999, Hospitality Net has been regarded as the most trusted source for industry leaders and experts to connect, share, and learn. Content is distributed to a network of partner sites and associations including HFTP, HSMAI, and HITEC, and supports all facets of the business including opinion articles, press releases, appointments, events, job openings, webinars, reports, sponsored content, and digital advertising. Hospitality Net has the most innovative publishing and distribution technology, as well as robust reporting capabilities to ensure clients can maximize their marketing ROI and measure their success. To learn more, visit hospitalitynet.org. Simone Puorto Founder at Travelsingularity Hospitality Net

Appleton Bath And Body Works Candle Rant Goes Viral Again – PopCrush https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/appleton-bath-and-body-works-candle-rant-goes-viral-again-popcrush/ “So, if you don’t like swearing or angry people from Wisconsin, then turn your mother-effing camera off now… I just got back from Bath & Body Works…” is a phrase many millennials will recognize immediately. Now, so will Gen Z after this infamous Appleton, Wis. candle rant by Az4Angela on YouTube went viral again 10 years later on TikTok. The epic, gum-chewing rant was imitated by @the.localhedgewitch on TikTok, who blindly acted out the whole thing so accurately, props included, that her videos now have millions of views. “I knew that one day this would somehow come in handy,” she captioned the first part of the iconic candle rant. Az4Angela’s passion for the Winter Candy Apple and Iced Gingerbread candles even allegedly inspired the “candle girl” character on Scream Queens. The rant tells the tale of Az4Angela’s fraught search for holiday candles that led her to Appleton, Wis., where she encountered Jen the manager. She goes on to recount how she demanded free merchandise after the Appleton store failed to produce her beloved winter candles, before detailing how she instead was stuck with Peach Bellini. “Give me my candles now, meaning, my Peach Bellinis,” she says in the YouTube video before pausing to take a long inhale of the candle. “And I was on my merry f—ing way.” She wound down the saga by adding, “And that b—- Jen, you know what I’m gonna do, Jen? I’m calling your district manager. I’m telling them what happened and what you did and how you f—ed up.” “I’m telling them, Jen,” she declared. “Oh, Jen, your a– is gonna get reamed.” “It was just a really, really bad situation,” she concluded. According to Post Crescent, Az4Angela loves the new surge of popularity the video has received, saying, “I love that I get to connect with so many amazing people on the internet.” The TikTok has gotten the attention of even actors, such as Patton Oswalt, who said that @the.localhedgewitch’s perfect imitation should be studied. “NEVER FORGET about Jen from Appleton,” one person replied, referencing the Bath & Body Works manager in the rant. Others joked about the rant by warning people not to shop for candles in Appleton. “i now wish i didn’t know what happened at the bath and body works in appleton, wisconsin,” the Twitter user above replied. Popular influencer Chris Klemens commented on the TikTok, “THIS VIDEO IS SO ICONIC PAHAHAHA.” “I worked at the Appleton Wisconsin store when this happened. Iconic,” another person said on TikTok. “THE OG KAREN,” someone else wrote in the comments. And of course, Az4Angela herself responded to the viral videos, reposting the first one and saying, “The BEST I have ever seen! Jen is still dead to me.” Watch the original candle rant video, below: Iconic Retail Stores That Don’t Exist Anymore

Christopher Sheehan On Paying Bills With Crypto And Spritz Finance | Ep. 162 – Cryptonews https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/christopher-sheehan-on-paying-bills-with-crypto-and-spritz-finance-ep-162-cryptonews/ In an exclusive interview with cryptonews.com, Christopher Sheehan, MIT Computer Scientist, repeat fintech entrepreneur, and Founder of Spritz Finance, talks about paying bills with crypto and more about on & off-chain finances. About Christopher Sheehan Christopher Sheehan is the Founder of Spritz Finance. He is an MIT Computer Scientist and repeat fintech entrepreneur. Chris’s previous company, WorldCover, was an international insuretech funded by Y Combinator, Index Ventures, Greylock and other global VC investors. The company developed parametric insurance products and software, and its IP assets were acquired in 2021. Sheehan gave a wide-ranging exclusive interview which you can see below, and we are happy for you to use for publication provided there is a credit to www.cryptonews.com.  Highlights Of The Interview Paying your bills with cryptocurrency  Lessons learned from Y-Combinator – doing things that don’t scale and growing 7% every week  Building on the Polygon Ecosystem – cheap and quick transactions Creating a crypto lifestyle app – more than just technology and finance  Bridging traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi) Full Transcript Of The Interview Matt Zahab Ladies and gentlemen, we’re back. We’re buzzing. As always, I’m super pumped to have today’s guest on the show. We have Christopher Sheehan, founder of Spritz Finance. Christopher is also an MIT computer scientist and repeat FinTech entrepreneur. Chris’ previous company world cover was an international insure-tech company funded by Y-Combinator, Index Ventures Greylock, and other global VC investors. The company developed parametric insurance products and software and its IP assets were acquired last year in 2021. Without further ado, I’m very pleased to welcome Christopher Sheehan to the Cryptonews podcast. Chris, welcome to show my friend. Christopher Sheehan Hey, Matt, how are you? Excited to be here.  Matt Zahab I’m doing well and I’m pumped to have you on. In the bio, the one thing well, many things. But as a Y Combinator fan myself, I got to ask, what was that like? I’ve always wanted to sort of give that a whirl myself. I’ve got a couple of friends who’ve been through the world. I’ve heard mostly positive things. What was your take on YC?  Christopher Sheehan Great question, Matt. Yeah, I mean, YC sort of formed and sort of instilled in me so much of the startup philosophy that, you know, I’m even bringing to this web three, startup. It’s a question I get a lot. And sometimes I joke that the answer is often correlated with how much money that particular project was able to raise after the program, you know, you raise a lot of money, awesome program, you don’t, and maybe not so good. And we were actually we’re fortunate enough to raise a nice round after YC. But I have to say it’s sort of the community of YC, that just kind of keeps on giving, whether it’s the forums and kind of the inside information that everybody shares to the events, and you know, in real life or virtual, and then the folks that have invested in my new company, as well. So, you know, I highly, highly recommend anybody consider YC. And it’s just a great and growing group of people. And, you know, I’m also part of the Orange DAO now, which is kind of the, it wasn’t affiliated but it’s the DAO that a lot of the alumni sort of formed afterwards and have I’ve sort of seen that process start from just an idea to now there are funds there are, you know, three or four different committees, there’s I went to the event in Amsterdam at Devconnect, hosted by orange DAO, they invested in Spritz. Amazing. And so it’s cool to see that community, I think, quite naturally map from kind of traditional startups into web three as well through the orange DAO. So yeah, two thumbs up for YC.  Matt Zahab Wow, gotta love to hear that. What’s something non-obvious that you took away? Not like, work hard? Or use your network? Or none of that classic shit? I’m talking about? Like, were there any, you know, under the table, tidbits of goals from Paul Graham or anyone else at YC? Where you were just like, holy shit, that is non-obvious, but absolutely incredible advice or an incredible takeaway? Christopher Sheehan Yeah, I mean, I think there’s some big things and some small things. One big thing was, you know, do things that don’t scale, which is, you know, pretty common advice. But YC, really, you know, you’ve got to hit that week-on-week grow 7%. And when you’re, you know, you’re like, Hey, I just walked in here with my co-founders, all we have is an idea. And they say, Well, how are you going to grow 7%? In seven days, like, well, what number are we even tracking? Well, you know, whatever that number is, just do the thing that grows the number. And it’s sort of like these, these little itty bitty steps, kind of grinding it out. Even doing things like you know, just going to events and signing people up yourself. Right? That compounds, right. And the power of compounding is so powerful in startups. So do things that don’t scale. YC is super into that. And then kind of a small thing that was interesting is around communicating ideas and presenting, you know, when you apply to YC, you have to describe your company, and I think 50 characters or less, I mean, it’s you know, what is that? Nowadays? It’s like a quarter of a tweet or, or less.  Matt Zahab It’s not even a one-liner. Christopher Sheehan Exactly. And then when you do, yeah. And then when you do demo day, it was at least in my time, it was a three-minute presentation. You know, your interview for YC is 10 minutes, when we’re taught to present where you were taught to use, like 130 Point type. So how do you get your ideas into the most crisp, brief, clear, simple frame as possible is really a skill. And actually, I think it’s a sign of a very thoughtful founding team to be able to do that. So that’s kind of another thing that YC that I think was very surprising and a skill I think that I’ve really tried to absorb and, and put out into the world nowadays too. Matt Zahab So well worth it. In summation. Christopher Sheehan Yeah, I mean, soak it up. Why not? I’m someone who, you know, I like to just learn and get all the help I can. So I sort of soak this stuff up, you know, other folks maybe just want to go and build and be left alone. And that’s cool, too. But, you know, I’m someone who loves the advice for sure.  Matt Zahab I gotta, I gotta ask you, let’s go a little off topic here. Your camera. It’s a little trippy. But I like it, though. Like, again, for those who aren’t watching and are just listening, which I assume is most of you. Chris’ camera like sort of follows him but doesn’t it’s like it engages the viewer, like, you got to give a plug. What camera is this? Christopher Sheehan It’s a little. The cameraman is a little inebriated. Sometimes people say the features called cameraman. It’s another YC company called Lumina, L U M I N A, and it’s a 4k camera. It’s like 250 bucks. But they use AI to I mean, kind of just do the tracking. And do kind of the repackaging into a 1080p feed that looks great, but has the ability to kind of track and make adjustments because it’s 4k. So I know sometimes I turned it on. Sometimes it turned it off. To be honest. If it’s noticed, then I’ll usually just turn it off. Matt Zahab No, no, it’s not distracting. It’s cool. It’s just when I first was looking at you while you were speaking I was like, Is he like swiveling on a chair? Does he have I don’t know it was Christopher Sheehan I’m doing that too, though. So yeah. Matt Zahab You’re a multitasker. multitaskers so. Christopher Sheehan Yeah. Matt Zahab Let’s go back to your bio for a second here. Also, MIT computer scientists is that as grueling as it sounds? Was that just an absolute? Like head down 18-hour days, you know, caffeine dripping in at all times. You know? What’s, what are the other ones Ritalin, little Adderall, Concerta? That, then,  Christopher Sheehan Yeah, it was like, you know, my days is more like Coors Light. And then, you know, coffee, you know, at night, and then cheap coffee in the morning. That was part of the fraternity system to at MIT, which is a great kind of release valve, you know, including sports and everything. So yeah, I mean, MIT will knock you down, you know, I think one of my best sort of, I guess academic performances was scoring something like a 40% on one of my final exams and having that be an A plus because it was graded on a curve. So it’s the type of place where you study the whole semester, you think you know, everything, and then you get to the exam, and you’re literally wonder to yourself, Is this even the right exam I’m taking, because I don’t recognize any of the problems. And you, so they’re just stretching you at every opportunity. And it’s so it’s wonderful for kind of brain growth, I say, and not so wonderful for, you know, psychology and confidence and everything, which is, you know, I think something they’ve worked on over time, but it’s, it’s quite an experience for sure. Matt Zahab They haven’t done your science 100%. Christopher Sheehan Yes. Matt Zahab Before we get into Spritz, which is the bread and butter of the show, besides yourself, I want to get in your head for a little bit. You seem like a very creative guy who loves to learn, I feel like you have a lust for learning, you’re a bit of a sponge or a huge sponge for that matter. Walk me through your morning or nighttime routines. Do you have any sort of daily disciplines or daily habits that really help you move the needle and become a very efficient learning version of Chris? Christopher Sheehan Yeah, interesting. You know, maybe it’s a surprise or n...

South Korea, U.S. Fire Missiles To Protest ‘reckless’ North Korean Test – Reuters.com https://bentoncountynewsnow.com/south-korea-u-s-fire-missiles-to-protest-reckless-north-korean-test-reuters-com/ SEOUL, Oct 5 (Reuters) – South Korea and the U.S. military conducted rare missile drills and an American supercarrier repositioned east of North Korea after Pyongyang flew a missile over Japan, one of the allies’ sharpest responses since 2017 to a North Korean weapon test. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that nuclear-armed North Korea risked further condemnation and isolation if it continued its “provocations.” North Korea test-fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) farther than ever before on Tuesday, sending it soaring over Japan for the first time in five years and prompting a warning for residents there to take cover. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Washington called the test “dangerous and reckless” and the U.S. military and its allies have stepped up displays of force. South Korean and American troops fired a volley of missiles into the sea in response, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said on Wednesday, and the allies earlier staged a bombing drill with fighter jets in the Yellow Sea. The aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan, a U.S. Navy ship that made its first stop in South Korea last month for the first time in years, will also return to the sea between Korea and Japan with its strike group of other warships. The South Korean military called it a “highly unusual” move designed to show the allies’ resolve to respond to any threats from North Korea. Speaking during a visit to Chile, Blinken said the United States, South Korea and Japan were working closely together “to demonstrate and strengthen our defensive and deterrent capabilities in light of the threat from North Korea.” He reiterated a U.S. call for Pyonyang to return to dialogue, and added: “If they continue down this road, it will only increase the condemnation, increase the isolation, increase the steps that are taken in response to their actions.” The U.N. Security Council will meet on Wednesday to discuss North Korea at the request of the United States, despite China and Russia telling council counterparts they were opposed to an open meeting of the 15-member body. They argued that the council’s reaction should be conducive to easing the situation on the Korean Peninsula, diplomats said. The top U.S. diplomat for East Asia, Daniel Kritenbrink, accused China and Russia this week of emboldening North Korea by not properly enforcing sanctions. He said a resumption of nuclear weapons testing by North Korea for the first time since 2017 was likely only awaiting a political decision. South Korean officials said North Korea had completed preparations for a nuclear test and might use a smaller weapon meant for operational use, or a big device with a higher yield than in previous tests. A surface-to-surface missile is fired into the sea off the east coast in this handout picture provided by the Defense Ministry, South Korea, October 5, 2022. South Korean Defense Ministry/Handout via REUTERS SOUTH KOREAN MISSILE FAILURE The South Korean military confirmed that one of its Hyunmoo-2C missiles failed shortly after launch and crashed during the exercise, but that no one was hurt. Footage shared on social media by a nearby resident and verified by Reuters showed smoke and flames rising from the military base. South Korea’s military said the fire was caused by burning rocket propellant, and although the missile carried a warhead, it did not explode. It apologised for causing residents to worry. It is not rare for military hardware to fail, and North Korea has suffered several failed missile launches this year as well. However, the South Korean failure threatened to overshadow Seoul’s efforts to demonstrate military prowess in the face of North Korea’s increasing capabilities. The Hyunmoo-2C is one of South Korea’s latest missiles and analysts say its capability as a precision “bunker buster” make it a key part of Seoul’s plans for striking the North in the event of a conflict. In its initial announcement of the drill, the South Korean military made no mention of the Hyunmoo-2C launch or its failure, but later media briefings were dominated by questions about the incident. President Yoon Suk-yeol, who has made such displays of military force a cornerstone of his strategy for countering North Korea, had vowed that the overflight of Japan would bring a decisive response from his country, its allies and the international community. U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida condemned North Korea’s test in the “strongest terms,” the European Union called it a “reckless and deliberately provocative action.” U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the launch and said it was a violation of Security Council resolutions. It was the first North Korean missile to follow a trajectory over Japan since 2017, and its estimated 4,600-km (2,850-mile) flight was the longest for a North Korean test, which are usually “lofted” into space to avoid flying over neighbouring countries. Analysts and security officials said it may have been a variant of the Hwasong-12 IRBM, which North Korea unveiled in 2017 as part of what it said was a plan to strike U.S. military bases in Guam. Neither North Korea’s government nor its state media have reported on the launch. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Joori Roh in Seoul, Humeyra Pamuk in Santiago and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Editing by Chris Reese, Sandra Maler, Gerry Doyle and Jonathan Oatis Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.