Collin County News Online

Dnata Travel Reveals The Top Summer Holiday Hotspots Of 2022 – Breaking Travel News https://collincountynewsonline.com/dnata-travel-reveals-the-top-summer-holiday-hotspots-of-2022-breaking-travel-news/ Checking if the site connection is secure www.breakingtravelnews.com needs to review the security of your connection before proceeding.

Seattle DJC.com Local Business News And Data – Business – Emerald Communities – Seattle Daily Journal Of Commerce https://collincountynewsonline.com/seattle-djc-com-local-business-news-and-data-business-emerald-communities-seattle-daily-journal-of-commerce/  September 30, 2022 Jamison Emerald Communities, a nonprofit senior housing and services organization based in Redmond, hired Diana Jamison as vice president, chief financial officer. Jamison will be responsible for the overall strategic and operational aspects of finance, accounting and information technology. She will work closely with the president and CEO of Emerald Communities, senior management, the board of directors, residents and numerous community partners to ensure Emerald Communities and its senior living properties, Heron’s Key in Gig Harbor and Emerald Heights in Redmond, all meet their financial and business goals. Prior to joining Emerald Communities, Jamison had nearly two decades of experience in nonprofit senior housing organizations. She brings extensive experience in strategic leadership, financial planning and analysis, reporting, financial modeling, risk management, accounting and team leadership.

Kiobo Declared Health Promoting Village – FBC News – FBC News https://collincountynewsonline.com/kiobo-declared-health-promoting-village-fbc-news-fbc-news/ News September 30, 2022 4:30 pm Pictured above is President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere with a villager. Kiobo Village in Kubulau has become the first village in the country to be declared a Health Promoting Village or Healthy Village under the revitalised Healthy Islands Initiative. The concept comes under the Ministry of Health’s Healthy Settings Program, which is a part of the revitalised Healthy Islands Initiative initially launched by Pacific Island countries in 1995. Launching the Program in Kiobo Village today, President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere says this initiative promotes healthy living in the village setting which will decrease pre-mature deaths and ensure a healthy and productive population. Article continues after advertisement Ratu Wiliame believes the initiative will change the way villagers have been living and enable them to adopt a healthier lifestyle that will give them a long life so they are able to teach the younger generation values and tradition. He adds, it gives him so much pride to launch the inaugural initiative in a place where he has maternal links. Ratu Wiliame has encouraged the villagers, to support and adopt the initiative for the betterment and good health of the future generation of Kubulau. The President, who will now champion the Health Settings Program, says the Ministry of Health will roll out the initiative to other communities. The event also marked the closing of a five-day training, in which all villagers were taught the pillars of healthy living under Program. Ratu Wiliame says this is a remarkable achievement and it will not only be beneficial for them but also the district as a whole. Minister for Health, Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete says they already have the health settings program in some workplaces, government departments and schools and will also be including other communities. They also intent to implement the program by districts and provinces.

James William Tibbetts Sr. | News, Sports, Jobs – Evening Observer https://collincountynewsonline.com/james-william-tibbetts-sr-news-sports-jobs-evening-observer/ James William Tibbetts Sr., 86. Born June 16, 1936, and passed away Sept. 27, 2022, in Belton Texas. He will be buried on Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022, at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Nolanville Texas. Full obituary can be read at https://www.dossmanfh. com/

The Metaverse: What The Law Look Will Look Like – Law.asia https://collincountynewsonline.com/the-metaverse-what-the-law-look-will-look-like-law-asia/ Current and potential applications of the metaverse are endless, but the new digital realm has raised novel issues that have confronted legal professionals in various roles. Putro Harnowo recaptures the views of tech experts attending a recent industry event T he metaverse has taken the spotlight as a limitless world that may be navigated and explored as virtual reality. This augmented world occurs through vision in the form of a head-mounted display, operating alongside audio or haptic sensory feedback that is elicited from devices that are worn by the user. Singapore’s TechLaw.Fest 2022 sought to answer new questions arising in the new space by bringing together well-known experts to offer possible solutions to the challenges posed. “We have to look at the balance between enabling the metaverse and its components to develop with proper incentivisation measures in place, and also safeguarding through regulation,” says Stanley Lai, partner and head of IP practice at Singapore law firm Allen & Gledhill. “Success and harm arise from abuse and exploitation. A balance can only be achieved by the convergence of non-legal rights, technologies, as well as the possibility of new evolving rights and obligations.” In IP matters, issues of copyright, trademarks and personality rights have become enigmas that are convoluted with decentralised technologies. Unregulated content has also posed harm to its users, in addition to the difficulties with enforcement beyond the platform space. For those seeking and currently involved in the metaverse project, the contractual interface, liability risk mitigation and data privacy laws are among the first to ponder. “Being an IP and commercial litigation lawyer for more than 25 years, I’ve seen our professional roles incrementally evolving,” says Lai. “Lawyers who practise in this field now have to be the embodiment of expertise and IP content regulation, data protection and the law of obligations.” IP rights analysis Earlier this year, Hermes sued digital artist Mason Rothschild for selling collections of NFTs called MetaBirkins, which were intended to be a playful abstraction of an existing fashion culture landmark, the famous Hermes Birkin, in the metaverse. The limited edition NFTs were sold for USD450 each late last year, collecting USD46,000 in just two weeks. The French luxury brand stated that MetaBirkins infringed on Hermes’ trademark rights and were an example of fake products in the metaverse, while demanding Rothschild and the companies that made available the MetaBirkins for sale remove the NFTs. Although Rothschild is currently contesting the cease-and-desist order, the largest NFT marketplace, Opensea, has complied and removed MetaBirkins from its platform. In AM General v Activision Blizzard, where Activision Blizzard reproduced military vehicle Humvees in their gaming platform, Call of Duty, the reproduction of Humvees is so realistic that the game company was sued by the vehicle manufacturer, AM General. However, the courts gave Activision a credit for their work, as the game maker had no choice but to make an accurate reproduction of the vehicles to make the war zone environment realistic. “We can start this analysis by walking ourselves through the various scenarios in trademark law to see how this will actually play out before the courts,” says Daniel Seng, associate professor at the National University of Singapore’s Faculty of Law. “The fundamental rule in trademark law is that a mark is to be used in relation to goods and services, so if a mark is not associated with or used in relation to goods and services, it falls outside of the trademark regime, and trademark law will not govern the issues in that particular instance.” Copyright law is also exemplified by the fact that it centres around the rights of reproduction, Seng adds, including the conversion from two or three dimensions and vice-versa. A good example of this is United Feature Syndicate v Koons (1993), where American artist Jeff Koons created a sculpture named Wild Boy and Puppy. Koons argued that the puppy was an accidental reproduction of Odie, the dog from the Garfield comics, and contended that this was fair use. However, the courts were not convinced, as Koons had made multiple copies of his sculpture for sale, which was therefore detrimental to his fair use defence. “The fair use defence is likely to feature very prominently in many metaverse cases, particularly if the assessment by the courts is done on a case-by-case basis by evaluating the alleged infringers’ use of copyrighted works,” says Seng. “Even though the fact that a work could have commercial use is not a factor that would preclude the application of the fair use test, the fact that the use of a work can have potential commercial ramifications in relation to the market of the original work will negatively affect the user’s reliance on the fair use test.” In some cases, copyright analysis in the metaverse will also overlap with personality rights, as there is limited recognition in the IP space for an individual’s right to his or her persona. For example, in Robyn Rihanna Fenty v Arcadia Group Brands, which involved the image of Rihanna on a T-shirt sold in London, an action was successfully taken against the T-shirt maker for passing off. “The interesting thing about this particular right is that, at least in common law jurisdictions outside of the US, it overlaps with the right to privacy and the right to be left alone and data protection rights,” says Seng. “One needs a holistic analysis of IP rights when analysing personality rights because one must also consider the data protection issues associated with subjects like these.” From a wider perspective, Seng expects legislators to evaluate the need to further harmonise copyright rules in the metaverse. For example, the internet era has sparked the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) to ratify and update its internet treaties that lay down an international framework for protecting unauthorised access to and use of creative works on the internet and other digital networks. Colliding realms As the metaverse developed, Tan Cheng-Han, dean and chair professor of commercial law at the City University of Hong Kong, says the digital realm has brought with it the dark side of the internet, and the greater convergence of the real and virtual world will exacerbate this tendency. A BBC News investigation in February 2022 reported that a researcher posing as a 13-year-old girl witnessed online grooming, racist insults and an assault threat in the metaverse. Although the term “grooming” is used, Tan argues that this does not fall within the current definition of grooming in criminal law, as action in the physical world is necessary to fit into such a category. Another example in a different context is groups of user avatars with inappropriate language on their digital clothes, such as language that is offensive to a particular religion. “It is not difficult to envisage other types of highly anti-social behaviour that could take place in the metaverse, which are not offences to date and will cause a lot of people to wonder if they should be,” says Tan. “Since the metaverse is a junction of the real and the online world, and arguably an imperfect mirror of the real world, to what extent should activities be regulated more similarly to those in the physical world?” Tan also points out that general thinking on the internet has changed considerably in the past few years; where it was once extremely libertarian, states are currently moving in the direction of regulating online speech. The EU’s Digital Services Act, the UK’s Online Safety Bill and Singapore’s Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act are examples. Recently, Singapore’s Ministry of Communications and Information launched a public consultation on a proposed code of practice that will require platforms with significant reach to have appropriate measures and safeguards to mitigate exposure to harmful content for Singapore-based users. These include having community standards, content moderation processes, and tools to manage users’ exposure. “It will likely also be the case in the early phase of the metaverse to regulate online harm through the imposition of standards and obligations on significant platforms,” says Tan. Besides removing or blocking existing content, Tan argues that it may be equally important to prevent harmful activities from taking place in the metaverse. For example, is it feasible to require users’ avatars to be verified by authentic digital identities before accessing important services in the metaverse? As a result, such wrongdoing will leave a digital signature that can be traced to the identity of the user. Another area where the real world might intersect with the metaverse is digital assets. As such assets become more precious and might have sentimental value, in July 2021, Tencent was reported to have developed a patent on digital legacy that will allow people to pass on digital assets to the next generation. “If someone has an avatar that behaves in a certain way over a period of time in the metaverse, coupled with algorithms and artificial intelligence, eventually it’s likely to be that when the person has gone from the physical world, the avatar could probably be a fairly accurate representation of what the person would have done in the living world,” says Tan. “And I can just imagine and hope that the children and family members would like the digital footprint to continue to exist in the online space for them to remember the person.” Nitty gritty liability The multitude of organisations in the metaverse brings a big challenge from a contractual and liability standpoint, according to Ahmed Baladi, a ...

Huawei Launched Vision Smart Screen With 120Hz High Refresh Rate And HarmonyOS 3 System – HC Newsroom https://collincountynewsonline.com/huawei-launched-vision-smart-screen-with-120hz-high-refresh-rate-and-harmonyos-3-system-hc-newsroom/ Finally! The most-speculated smart TV product is here. Yesterday, Huawei has launched the Vision smart screen for its consumers. And just like the other high-end flagships of the company, this device also packs a bunch of super new features and tweaks. Eventually, this launch marks a full stop to all those rumors and speculations that we have come across in the meantime. So, without wasting any moment here and there, let’s jump into the special characteristics of this amazing Vision series. The ultimate Vision smart screen consists of three variants: a Standard Smart Screen, a Smart Screen Portable Edition, and two Smart Screen Z Gaming Edition. In total, there are four new members in the smart screen family. Display: Huawei has launched the Vision smart screen with a screen ratio of 98%. It supports a 120Hz high refresh rate with MEMC (Motion Estimation, Motion Compensation) supplementary frame. Besides, the screen exhibits 92% of the DCI-P3 color gamut with super reflective picture quality. In terms of eye protection, it has passed the Rheinland certification. Thus, with no stroboscopic, low blue light, and Pengbai six-unit stereo, the device provides a high-definition visual experience. Performance: Well, when a device is running on the HarmonyOS 3.0 system, we must not doubt its performance. It uses a high-brush original color screen as well as high-performing game consoles. With a rich gaming ecosystem and Honghu picture quality, the device is capable of restoring every frame of color. It also equips an octa-core processor and HDMI 2.0 and 2.1 interfaces. Thoughtful Functions: All the new models are eligible to support the super device and home screen functions. You can easily operate the respective screens just like the way you do with your smartphone. The device also enables one-touch screen projection, single-app screen projection, and super interactive and convenient controls. The device also packs some dynamic functions for gamers. It brings support to numerous gameplay, video resources of the whole network, new video content, millions of accompaniments, and more. Portable and Gaming Edition The Z Gaming version furnishes a 6GB + 64GB storage. Besides, it showcases Huawei Sound computing audio, AI smart eyes, AI somatosensory games, high color gamut, an original color screen, and a dazzling color-changing integrated SoundBar. Just like its name, it has a cool trendy design and has several iconic functions related to gaming consoles. For instance, large gamepad games, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) combine with Devialet design + dual Vivid audio and video certification. On the flip side, the Portable Vision smart screen installs a 5-unit audio system, a 10.4-inch 2K resolution display panel, and a 4G + 64GB massive memory. It also has an 8MP high-end shooter and a huge 10995mAh battery. Pre-Sale already begins! Just after the release of Vision smart TVs, the Chinese manufacturer begins the pre-sale of the devices (September 29, 20:00). Hence, here you got the chance to register yourself in this booking for obtaining your favorite smart screen gadget. However, as mentioned by some Huawei analysts, the sale for standard and Gaming Edition smart screens will officially take place on October 14 and October 31 respectively. Till then you can have a look at their price details. Huawei Vision Smart Screen 75 – 5999 yuan [843.23 USD] (Sale – October 14) Huawei Vision Smart Screen 86 – 9499 yuan [1,335.20 USD] (Sale – October 14) Huawei Vision Smart Screen Z65 Gaming Edition – 7599 yuan [1,068.13 USD] (Sale – October 31) Huawei Vision Smart Screen Z75 Gaming Edition – 12,999 yuan [1,827.17 USD] (Sale – October 31)

India Freezes Bitcoin At Binance Amid Investigation Involving Crypto Exchange Wazirx – Regulation Bitcoin News – Bitcoin News https://collincountynewsonline.com/india-freezes-bitcoin-at-binance-amid-investigation-involving-crypto-exchange-wazirx-regulation-bitcoin-news-bitcoin-news/ India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) says it has frozen more than 77.6 bitcoins that were transferred to Binance from Indian crypto exchange Wazirx. The freeze is part of a money laundering investigation into a mobile gaming application. Indian Authority Freezes Bitcoin Held at Crypto Exchange Binance India’s Directorate of Enforcement (ED) announced Wednesday that it has frozen 77.62710139 bitcoins under the country’s Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The ED is the Indian government’s law enforcement and economic intelligence agency. The freeze is part of the ED’s investigation into a mobile gaming application called E-nuggets. According to the announcement, the cryptocurrency was transferred from Wazirx, a popular Indian exchange, to Binance. The ED also tweeted a summary of its action. The law enforcement agency explained that “Aamir Khan, S/o Nesar Ahmed Khan launched a mobile gaming application namely E-Nuggets, which was designed for the purpose of defrauding [the] public,” adding: After collecting seizable amount of money from the public, all of a sudden withdrawal from the said app was stopped on one pretext or the other. Thereafter, all data including profile information was wiped off from the said app servers. The ED explained that its investigations have revealed that the accused transferred part of the illegally earned funds overseas via the Indian crypto exchange Wazirx. The accused allegedly opened a dummy account in the name of “Sima Naskar (Proprietor of M/s Pixal Design)” with Wazirx and used it to purchase cryptocurrencies, the ED further described, elaborating: Thereafter the said crypto currencies were further transferred to another account in another crypto exchange, namely Binance. “The balance of said transferred cryptocurrencies i.e. 77.62710139 bitcoins [equivalent to USD 1,573,466 (Rs 12.83 crore approximately)] at Binance crypto exchange has been freezed,” the ED wrote. Binance was believed to have acquired Wazirx in 2019. However, Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) recently said that the acquisition “was never completed,” emphasizing that “Binance has never — at any point — owned any shares of Zanmai Labs, the entity operating Wazirx.” The ED froze the bank assets of Wazirx worth more than $8 million in August. However, earlier this month, Wazirx said that its bank accounts have been unfrozen. Following Wazirx, the ED froze crypto and bank assets worth $46 million of Vauld, a crypto platform backed by Peter Thiel. In August, the agency searched crypto exchange Coinswitch Kuber. However, the CEO of the exchange said that it was not related to money laundering investigations. What do you think about the ED freezing bitcoin held at crypto exchange Binance? Let us know in the comments section below. Kevin Helms A student of Austrian Economics, Kevin found Bitcoin in 2011 and has been an evangelist ever since. His interests lie in Bitcoin security, open-source systems, network effects and the intersection between economics and cryptography. Image Credits: Shutterstock, Pixabay, Wiki Commons Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a direct offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or a recommendation or endorsement of any products, services, or companies. Bitcoin.com does not provide investment, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Neither the company nor the author is responsible, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on any content, goods or services mentioned in this article.

Anti-Asian Hate Crimes Are Scaring Chinese Travelers Away From The US – CNN https://collincountynewsonline.com/anti-asian-hate-crimes-are-scaring-chinese-travelers-away-from-the-us-cnn/ Editor’s Note — A version of this story appears in CNN’s Meanwhile in China newsletter, a three-times-a-week update exploring what you need to know about the country’s rise and how it impacts the world. Sign up here. Hong Kong (CNN) — Cannon Yu lives in Shantou, Guangdong province. In the past, her sales job at a packaged-foods company took her to business conferences all over the world. But she hasn’t left China since early 2020 and is taking her sales calls online instead of in person in Thailand, Germany, Morocco and elsewhere. While most countries have reopened their borders and resumed travel back to previous pre-Covid levels, China has remained extremely conservative in its approach and continues to adhere to a stringent and uncompromising “zero-Covid” policy. While those policies keep Chinese people in, they also keep most foreigners out, making it less likely for people like Yu to interact with people from other countries. And although China still hasn’t announced a plan for removing quarantine and other roadblocks for international travel, Yu can’t wait to get back on the road and travel again. There’s one exception, though — she has major reservations about visiting the United States. How the East looks at the West Scott Moskowitz, geopolitical risk analyst for APAC at the decision intelligence company Morning Consult, says that state-controlled media in China has played up examples of anti-Asian violence in the US in order to make its citizens less interested in going there. It’s “a strategically curated ecosystem that over-reports and sensationalizes negative foreign news compared to the tight controls on coverage of challenging or disturbing domestic instance,” he says. And Yu’s beliefs bear that out. “They look at people discriminately (there),” she says. “Not only for Chinese, but for Black people. It’s very difficult to get fair treatment for all people in the United States.” She adds that she has spoken to friends who have visited the US, claiming that they were detained and searched by customs agents before being allowed to leave the airport. Yu is one of an increasingly vocal community of Chinese travelers who say that anti-Asian discrimination in the US has made them afraid to visit someday. This month, Morning Consult published a study on this exact trend. Their findings, based on a survey of 1,000 adults, showed that “a plurality of Chinese have little to no interest in US travel,” with violence and anti-Asian discrimination both cited as factors. According to Morning Consult’s data, 22% of mainland Chinese respondents are “not interested at all” in visiting the US, with an additional 23% saying they are “not that interested.” Of the survey respondents, 57% say that violent crime is a primary reason they don’t want to go to the US, while 52% cite terrorism, 36% say petty crime and 44% say they are concerned about anti-China bias by locals. Mass shootings are another specific concern, with “those who have seen, read or heard about the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas” earlier this year “far more likely to cite violent crime as a reason not to travel” to the country, Morning Consult says in its report. Instead, some Chinese travelers are now looking elsewhere, with destinations in Europe clearly preferred over the US, according to the survey. In the wake of anti-Asian hate crimes, “United Shades of America” discusses the need for Asian Americans to have a greater voice in bridging divides. The series airs Sundays at 10 p.m. ET. The rise of violence Amid the pandemic, there has been an increase in anti-Asian harassment around the world, much of it the result of misinformation or misplaced aggression about the origins of Covid-19. The nonpartisan coalition Stop AAPI Hate provides a place for people to report harassment and attacks. Perhaps the most covered anti-Asian hate attack in the United States since the start of the pandemic was the “Atlanta spa murders,” during which eight women in three different massage parlors were shot and killed by Robert Aaron Long, a White man. Six of the eight victims were Asian, and Long was charged with hate crimes in addition to the murders. Last year, New York Congresswoman Grace Meng introduced the Covid-19 Hate Crimes bill, which was signed into law by President Joe Biden. Meng, who is of Taiwanese descent, represents parts of Queens, the diverse New York City borough that is home to many Asian Americans. These incidents — which range from street harassment to physical violence — get significant coverage outside of the US, including in China. Current geopolitical tensions aren’t helping. Moskowitz says that the perception that the US is China’s biggest rival has only heightened attention to stories of anti-Asian discrimination or violence in the country, even though similar incidents also take place elsewhere. “This differential is especially exaggerated in terms of (Chinese state media) reporting on the US as compared to Europe and other places. Some of this is strategic and intentional, curated in order to diminish the appeal and soft power of the country China sees as its great rival, both politically and ideologically,” he tells CNN Travel. “There are strong perceptions in China that there is a lot of global bias against their country,” Moskowitz adds. “Personal and national identity are very strongly tied in China so there may be concerns that more macro and political grievances and resentments (both real and perceived) with a country will be turned back towards the individual when traveling abroad.” How to change perceptions Although changing the way Chinese travelers see the US won’t happen overnight, it’s not impossible. “The results of this survey specifically suggest that travel companies and destinations should double down on safety-related messaging in marketing campaigns targeting Chinese consumers,” says Lindsey Roeschke, travel and hospitality analyst at Morning Consult, who co-authored the survey with Moskowitz. She adds: “Travel brands should provide pre-departure information on safety tools and tips. Those who want to take additional action may consider providing access to safety-oriented tour guides or a designated personal safety representative during travelers’ stays.” Some countries have given specific warnings to their citizens about US travel, specifically as it relates to gun violence. In 2019, the group Amnesty International issued an alert to people exhorting them to “exercise caution and have an emergency contingency plan when traveling throughout the USA” due to gun violence. As for Cannon Yu, she’s still eager to travel anywhere outside of China once it becomes less difficult. Despite everything, she is still curious about the US and hopes to eventually see it for herself. In particular, there’s one place on her bucket list — Las Vegas. “I want to gamble,” she says. And then, after a pause, she continues: “I want to make friends.” Top image: Asian American community leaders place flowers on a memorial for murder victim Christina Yuna Lee after an anti-Asian hate rally in New York City. Photo by Barry Williams/New York Daily News/Tribune News Service via Getty Images.

2023 Census: Uzodimma Canvasses Deployment Of Accurate Technology | The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria And World News — Nigeria — The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria And World News – Guardian Nigeria https://collincountynewsonline.com/2023-census-uzodimma-canvasses-deployment-of-accurate-technology-the-guardian-nigeria-news-nigeria-and-world-news-nigeria-the-guardian-nigeria-news-nigeria-and-world/ • Urges Imo residents to avail themselves for counting • Pleads with ASUU to call off strike As Nigeria prepares for next year’s headcount, the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has urged authorities of the National Population Commission (NPC) to ensure deployment of equipment that will guarantee accurate and reliable figures. Uzodimma also urged all Imo residents, in the 27 councils, to avail themselves to be counted during the exercise. He made the calls, yesterday, during the flag-off of stakeholders’ summit on the 2023 Population and Housing Census, held in Owerri. The governor, who said that, so far, he is satisfied by efforts of the NPC, noted that the summit was “relevant to the realisation of our future plans as a government and as a people.” While noting that the headcount should not be a mere exercise in futility, Uzodimma said: “National Census is not just a mere collection of data, number of people and houses, it includes the collection of demographic, social and economic data, which government uses to formulate economic policies. “The data generated serve as useful guide in the distribution of social amenities and infrastructural projects. “In other words, population census is at the heart of planning for the future by government, based on figure obtained during the census exercise.” Uzodimma stressed that a well-conducted headcount would help government, at all levels, plan, saying: “A properly conducted population census, therefore, saves government from planning blindly.” IN another development, the governor has appealed to striking university teachers in the country, under the aegis of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), to call off their strike to allow students go back to school for academic activities. Uzodimma made the plea on Wednesday when 17 members of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), led by the Pro-Chancellor/ Chairman of the Governing Council, Jack Tilley-Gyado, visited him at the Government House, Owerri. He, particularly, appealed to the FUTO chapter of ASUU to make necessary sacrifices for the existence of tertiary education, saying: “Allow students studying in the university to go back to school. Education is key ingredient for national development. So, it is the responsibility of leaders in the country to resolve issues and controversies that tend to impede academic progress of youths. “What the leaders of Nigeria owe our future generation is to ensure that they are given the opportunity to acquire knowledge and be better citizens in future.”

10 Tabletop Games You Should Play If You Love Dungeons & Dragons – DualShockers https://collincountynewsonline.com/10-tabletop-games-you-should-play-if-you-love-dungeons-dragons-dualshockers/ With the explosion in popularity of actual play podcasts, tabletop gaming is bigger than it’s ever been. The flagship tabletop RPG is, of course, Dungeons & Dragons; a fantasy system with roots in old-school war gaming. The main focus of D&D is combat. Players gain experience by killing enemies, making their characters stronger. However, for many, what makes the medium great isn’t combat. It’s, you know, role-playing. Tabletop gaming is known for spiriting players away to other worlds, giving them the opportunity to tell personal, collaborative stories. And when it comes to this, there are far better games than D&D. Anyone experiencing fatigue with WotC’s iconic tabletop game owes it to themselves to check out some of these worthy competitors! 10/10 World Wide Wrestling At first glance, a professional wrestling RPG might seem like an odd idea. And it is. It totally is. Yet, somehow, it works. In World Wide Wrestling (or WWW), the players will work matches, cut promos, and develop heated rivalries as they steer their careers in whatever direction they desire. The GM is the “booker”, setting the players up in matches against one another, against NPC wrestlers, as part of a tag team, or whatever works for their wrestling show. Because the players will often be sitting around waiting to wrestle, WWW also has a number of mechanics to keep those on the sidelines involved. Players might step in as commentators, managers, or rambunctious audience members when they’re not actively wrestling. They can even choose to interfere in other people’s matches! 9/10 Gumshoe Mysteries in tabletop games can be rough. The players can’t be expected to be geniuses, and sometimes, neither can their characters. In Call of Cthulhu, which is a classic investigative game, GMs will generally include multiple avenues of investigation for each mystery. If the players fail to spot one, well, maybe they’ll find another. But maybe not. With Gumshoe, as long as a character is in the right spot and has the right ability, they will always find the clue they need. Instead, the drama comes from more interesting situations. There are lots of different Gumshoe games to choose from. We highly recommend Trail of Cthulhu and Bubblegumshoe. 8/10 Monster Of The Week Monster of the Week (or MotW) is the perfect game for anyone who’s ever wanted to hunt cryptids, vampires, ghosts, or aliens in a modern fantasy setting. It’s based on the successful Powered by the Apocalypse system, giving it a low overhead workload for GMs, as well as an easy-to-understand set of rules for players. And because MotW is based on this elegant system, it allows a fantastic level of freedom and collaboration in storytelling. Its mechanics are meant to simply guide the story. No one rule is too obtrusive or overly complex. It also puts a nice focus on investigation and actually hunting monsters, instead of just fighting them. 7/10 Lancer Lancer is a premier mech RPG, with solid mechanics and a wide fanbase for hacks and homebrews. Players take on the role of Lancers; elite mech pilots in a distant sci-fi future. Lancer is known for its incredibly deep mech customization, as well as its very solid hex-based combat rules. Lancer also has deep lore with a focus on corporations, as well as a companion site with equipment details, great digital character sheets, and helpful tools for DMs. And, we would be remiss not to mention the amazing art throughout the book. Anyone interested in mechs or extravagant sci-fi settings should definitely give this game a look. 6/10 Shadowrun Shadowrun is a classic game with a storied history. It’s a crunchy, rules-heavy cyberpunk game set in a world where some humans have morphed into fantasy races – elves, orcs, etc. The game takes place on a future Earth, so it’s great for those who want to play in a cyberpunk version of their hometown. It’s also great for groups that enjoy extremely deep mechanics, with tons of options for equipment and weapon customization. However, groups that prefer simpler games with fewer moving parts to keep track of might prefer Lancer or Stars Without Number. The rulebook for Shadowrun has always been thick and daunting to new players, though the most recent edition does streamline things a bit. 5/10 Pathfinder For those who want to change it up from D&D, but are still enamored with the fantasy setting, Pathfinder is a wonderful alternative. Its rules are a tad crunchier than D&D’s, but once the GM and players get a feel for things, it proceeds smoothly. Classes are richly detailed and filled with customization options. Plus, the writing is top-notch compared to D&D. Take monster races, for example. Rather than making them one-dimensional, Pathfinder fleshes out creatures like goblins with their own culture and motivations. It may be tough at first to make the transition from D&D to Pathfinder. There’s a bit of a learning curve involved. It’s a worthwhile shift, though. It may be a bit more old-school, but it’s a wonderful system with great writing and art. 4/10 Stars Without Number Stars Without Number is a sci-fi space opera RPG with a focus on exploration. It’s an amazingly designed RPG, not only in terms of the beauty and clever layout of the book but also in terms of its streamlined mechanics. For those who want to run a sci-fi game but don’t know exactly where to start, this is a perfect jumping-off point. Stars Without Number features rules for psionics, starship construction, and just about anything one would expect to find in a cool sci-fi setting. One of our favorite aspects of the game is space combat, where each player is responsible for various crises and different areas of the starship, keeping them all involved. 3/10 Mutants And Masterminds Plenty of people have wondered what their powers might be if they were a superhero. Mutants and Masterminds is here to help answer that question. At first glance, the game’s thick rulebook might be intimidating. Things can get pretty crazy with its tables, such as its systems for distance and scale, which quickly get up to interplanetary levels. However, like other entries on this list, the fun really starts once a particular group manages to wrap its head around the rule set. Though daunting at first, the game is ultimately very elegant. There are a ridiculous number of possibilities for different superpowers — it’s no stretch to say that essentially anything you can imagine can work in Mutants and Masterminds. 2/10 Call Of Cthulhu In D&D, the player characters can become god-like damage sponges. At higher levels, players can have hundreds of hit points. In Call of Cthulhu, the maximum HP for a player character is more like fifteen. That’s because it’s a Lovecraftian survival horror RPG. Because combat is so brutally realistic, it tends to be the final resort for players (at least, for those who wish to survive). Rather than focusing on combat, most Call of Cthulhu adventures are investigative in nature. The characters use their wits and skills to solve mysteries and invent creative solutions — all to turn back the tide of the cosmic clock. Games are often historical and rooted in reality. One adventure might take place in the 1920s New York, the other in prehistoric Egypt, 18th century France, etc. 1/10 Blades In The Dark Blades in the Dark is a streamlined fantasy crime RPG that highly values player freedom and collaboration. It features simple character creation, elegant RP-focused mechanics, and interesting lore that’s completely open to interpretation. Blades players take on the roles of daring scoundrels in the haunted gothic city of Duskwall. The group comes together to form a gang, pursuing whatever goals are most interesting to them. They might execute assassinations, clandestine heists, magical rituals, or so on. The GM is encouraged to take a hands-off approach, allowing the players to freely pursue their own goals. Drawing inspiration from Dishonored, Blades also includes a system for progressing the world around the players. Everything they do has an impact on the haunted city. NEXT: Best Open-World RPGs Of All Time, Ranked

Local Events | Starlocalmedia.com – Star Local Media https://collincountynewsonline.com/local-events-starlocalmedia-com-star-local-media/ Plano, TX (75074) Today A mainly sunny sky. High 82F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A mostly clear sky. Low 52F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Updated: September 29, 2022 @ 11:52 pm

10 Ways To Capture The Post-Vacation Feeling At Home – Glam https://collincountynewsonline.com/10-ways-to-capture-the-post-vacation-feeling-at-home-glam/ Bangkok Click Studio/Shutterstock Vacations are important; they provide a mental reset to rejuvenate and reinvigorate you before you return to work. But according to Forbes, The Center for Economic and Policy Research has nicknamed the U.S. the “No Vacation Nation,” indicating that workers are neglecting to take the time off they not only earn but desperately need. Without vacations, you may end up feeling burned out and resentful of your career, school schedule, or other obligations.  According to Everyday Health, there is tons of evidence to support why we should prioritize taking time off. Vacations are directly linked to reduced stress, improved productivity, and better overall life satisfaction because they give people the chance to wholeheartedly relax before the pressures and constraints of the working world fall back on them. As beneficial as vacations are, sometimes there are barriers outside of our control that affect them. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, severely impacted the travel industry as many people were forced to cancel their vacation plans (via Styl.Inc). Other times, not taking regular vacations simply comes down to money. If there isn’t enough extra cash in the budget to splurge on a trip, it just doesn’t feel like a realistic possibility. If these factors, or others, are keeping you from planning a vacation to your dream destination, know that there are brilliant ways you can recreate a post-vacation feeling at home.  Recreate a spa experience Lucigerma/Shutterstock Ready to spoil yourself? Recreating a full-on, relaxing spa experience is easy to do with the right supplies, and mud masks and cucumbers are only the beginning. According to Vistana Signature Experiences, the first thing you should do is choose a room for your home spa. Bathrooms tend to be ideal. Once your location is picked out, special touches can make the experience more relaxing: add bath bombs, Epson salt, and essential oil drops to the tub; flower petals, baking soda, and chamomile are perfect in your foot soak; and pre-packaged face masks add convenience. The perfect ambiance is key for a spa day at home (via Unpacked). Try dimming the lights and lighting candles or burning incense to fill your space with scents of vanilla, lavender, or coconut. The final touch is soft, gentle music — or nature sounds like birds chirping and raindrops — playing in the background. Create a playlist to enhance to calming vibe. Be sure to keep your journal or diary nearby for writing down your thoughts, feelings, and manifestations for the future. Recreate a beach day Studio Romantic/Shutterstock If you live in a landlocked state, recreating a beach experience at home might be just what you need. According to WebMD, there is a slew of health benefits that come from taking trips to the beach. It’s a refreshing place that opens up your senses, provides sun exposure, and naturally lifts your mood.  The first step in creating your at-home beach, according to BuzzFeed, is to play the sound of gentle waves crashing along the shoreline. Once you’re in the right headspace, try wearing a beach-inspired perfume. Fragrances with hints of palm leaf, coconut, and sea salt are good options. If you’re not into perfume, a few dollops of sunscreen will work also. After that, it’s time to start decorating. String together seashells and drape them over your banister and place dried starfish on your coffee table. Run your fingers through a sand-filled zen garden or squish your toes in a kids’ sandbox. Having the right foods and drinks will also help enhance the beach vibes. Hot dogs with all the trimmings are a great choice (via BuzzFeed) and fruity cocktails (or mocktails) are always fun –– especially when they have cute umbrella garnishes. Finally, if you have access to water, whether it’s in the neighborhood community pool or at the gym, enjoy some time there. Go camping in your own backyard Melissa Balthaser/Shutterstock As long as you have a backyard or patio space to work with, camping at home can make you feel like you’re far away on an adventurous vacation. Pitch a sturdy tent, line up some comfy sleeping bags, and prep your ingredients for making s’mores. If you have a safe place to do so, Country Living recommends lighting a fire pit. It will keep you warm and that campfire smell just adds to the experience. Hang some string lights for extra twinkle and once the sun sets, sing along to your favorite childhood songs and read about creepy ghosts on Reddit threads. After all, a camping trip isn’t complete without a few scary stories.  Adding activities like a scavenger hunt, cornhole, and catching fireflies to your to-do list for the night is great if you’ve got little ones in tow. The Washington Post says dressing up in your pajamas, keeping a portable lamp or flashlight close, and having a good book on deck to read are a few more ways you can truly enjoy a night of camping in your own backyard. Prioritize your sleep Olena Yakobchuk/Shutterstock When you’re on vacation, you have the freedom to get as much sleep as you could possibly want. If you’re really trying to capture the post-vacation feeling at home, prioritizing your sleep is a must. When you get deep sleep, you feel energized and ready to take on each new day. Of course, it might be hard to prioritize sleep when you finally have time to read chapters in your favorite book, scroll through your social media timelines, and binge-watch fun reality TV shows (via UNC Health Talk). Nevertheless, getting quality sleep is absolutely vital. According to Wired, prioritizing your sleep is hugely important because a lack of good sleep heavily impacts your mental and physical health. People who have abnormal sleep patterns are more susceptible to diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. If you’re not able to take time off work to go on an actual vacation, your best option would be to call it a night a little earlier than you usually would to give your body and brain a chance to rest. The earlier you fall asleep, the longer you’ll be able to rest before having to start your obligations the following morning. This means you’ll have to stop scrolling earlier than normal, even if there are a few TikTok trends that are really captivating your attention. Walk around your neighborhood Maria Markevich/Shutterstock Imagine for a moment that you’re in a foreign country with unfamiliar roadways. You’d most likely choose to walk as much as you can to take in the ambiance. You can do the same thing in your own neighborhood. Remind yourself of what it feels like to be a tourist exploring on foot by taking a one- or two-mile walk. Keep your eyes peeled to see if you notice amazing things you’ve never paid attention to before. You might run into a kind neighbor, have the opportunity to pet a friendly dog, smell fragrant roses in a garden, or even admire interesting homes and cars. There are health benefits linked to walking, as well. According to Mayo Clinic, going for walks helps you maintain a healthy weight, prevents various conditions, and improves cardiovascular fitness. If you’re not a huge fan of walks, think of it as a primer for your next vacation. Whether your next trip is to Europe, Disney World, or on a cruise ship, The Washington Post reports the best way you can prepare for it is to take walks that will build up some endurance. Cook cuisine from a different country Monster Ztudio/Shutterstock If you’re comfortable exploring international recipes, you can feel like you’re traveling around the world without even having to leave your kitchen (via Taste of Home). Have a location in mind that you would like to visit one day? Cook a traditional meal from that country. For example, if you’re interested in traveling to Italy, search for recipes for fresh, homemade pizza and delicious fettuccine alfredo. Cooking and eating these meals will make you feel like you’re there. You don’t have to be a bona fide foodie or food blogger to get excited about trying foods from other cultures. If you’re only willing to eat food from countries and cultures you’re familiar with, you’re limiting yourself from experiencing some of the most amazing delicacies available from around the world. After all, food is something that connects people from different places all around the globe (via Toast Fried).  Find a restorative practice 220 Selfmade studio/Shutterstock Going on vacation means you’re taking time out of your busy schedule to relax and unwind. If you’re stuck at home and unable to actually travel anywhere, restorative practices can put you in the right mind space. Meditation, yoga, and breathwork are only a small taste of restorative practices to consider.  According to Art of Living, meditation is beneficial because it leads to enthusiasm, inner joy, and peace. It brings your brain to an alpha state which promotes healing from the inside out. If you’re feeling weighed down by anxiety or you feel that you’re in need of some clarity, meditation is one of the best ways to solve those issues. Yoga helps improve strength, balance, and flexibility (via Johns Hopkins Medicine). When you practice yoga regularly, it relaxes you, helps you sleep better, and gives you more energy.  Breathwork is a holistic practice that’s been around for thousands of years, according to WebMD. It has an anti-inflammatory effect that quickly elevates your mood. Visit an unfamiliar local exhibit Zyabich/Shutterstock Local exhibits, museums, and art shows might open your mind to a feeling of curiosity and wonder. Travelers always have their eyes peeled to take in new, unexpected sites all around them. This is likely because when you’re on vacation and you’re in a new place, nothing looks familiar, which means everything feels exciting. Hill Aerospace ...

Business News: Sept. 30 | Nvdaily | Nvdaily.com – Northern Virginia Daily https://collincountynewsonline.com/business-news-sept-30-nvdaily-nvdaily-com-northern-virginia-daily/ Rebels baseball book Austin Gisriel, of Stephenson, has published an updated edition of “Safe at Home: A Season in the Valley,” chronicling the 2009 New Market Rebels baseball season. “Several of the most important ‘characters’ such as Mo Weber, Bruce Alger and his wife, Lynn, and ‘Front Row’ Fred Miller are no longer with us. I thought it was important to recognize the changes that have happened to the Rebels organization and to the league in general,” says Gisriel. The updated second edition is available in both paperback and Kindle e-reader versions through Amazon.com. Submissions Send in your events at www.nvdaily.com/site/forms

PCOS Awareness: Know How It Is Linked To Diabetes And Secondary Infertility – Health Shots https://collincountynewsonline.com/pcos-awareness-know-how-it-is-linked-to-diabetes-and-secondary-infertility-health-shots/ Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder among women of childbearing age. There are multiple side effects of PCOS. This disorder disturbs the body’s hormonal balance and results in irregular or extended menstrual cycles. PCOS causes follicles with immature eggs to form cysts which begin to grow inside the ovaries and not mature. The inability to develop mature eggs might interfere with ovulation and result in issues such as infertility. Causes and symptoms of PCOS PCOS is closely associated with insulin resistance and higher levels of the hormone testosterone. Numerous factors, including family history, insulin resistance, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, etc., have an impact on PCOS. PCOS may cause several problems such as fertility issues, infrequent or prolonged periods, weight gain, depression, excess body hair growth and acne, hair loss, hypertension and diabetes. With lifestyle changes and additional stressors due to the Covid-19 pandemic, India has seen a spike in PCOS cases in recent times. Obesity is a major driver of PCOS. Image courtesy: Shutterstock Relationship between PCOS and diabetes One in every sixth diabetic person over the world is an Indian. India is one of the top 10 countries with the most diabetics, with over 77 million individuals living with the disease. While diabetes is affecting people world over, it is becoming a greater challenge for women suffering from PCOS. Type 2 diabetes mellitus and PCOS have long been believed to be related. As per a research by All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), one in four women suffer from PCOS and over one in 10 women between the age group of 35 to 49 suffer from diabetes. A woman with PCOS experiences endocrine system disruption and an increase in androgen, often known as male hormone. It is also believed that high quantities insulin are produced by the pancreas as a result of insulin resistance by the insulin receptors, causing PCOS. Thus, women who develop PCOS as young adults are more likely to develop diabetes and, possibly heart problems in later life. Women’s capacity to conceive is negatively impacted by both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, which are both characterized by irregular or non-existent menstruation (oligomenorrhea) and/or secondary amenorrhea. These issues are all closely related to obesity. Diabetes can also affect fertility in women by delaying the onset of menstruation (or menarche). This can lead to high sugar, causing rapid and early ovarian aging as evidenced by pre-mature menopause. Particularly in women of childbearing age, diabetes is linked to irregular menstrual cycles. Thus, diabetes can impact the biological clock and limit a female’s reproductive lifespan. PCOS affects menstrual cycle. Image courtesy: Shutterstock Relationship between PCOS and secondary infertility: In simple words, Secondary Infertility is the inability to become pregnant for a second time. Secondary infertility is a serious issue that happens more frequently to couples than one may think. Hormonal imbalances (whether too high or too low) can cause the brain-ovary relationship to be disrupted. The ovary doesn’t get the word that it’s intended to release an egg every month if the brain doesn’t provide the right signals. Some of these hormonal abnormalities may manifest themselves later in life. Thyroid, pituitary gland, or a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome are all examples of hormonal imbalances. Secondary (and main) infertility is frequently brought on by PCOS, which can interfere with ovulation. One should consult their doctor to determine whether they have PCOS when their periods are erratic or non-existent. Eat healthy, stay strong. Image courtesy: Shutterstock Prevention and care for PCOS To avoid the side effects of PCOS in the long run, women dealing with it should adopt healthy lifestyle habits. Regular exercise would aid in reducing insulin resistance in the body, fight obesity, and burn off extra sugar. For the body and mind to remain in good shape, a well-balanced nutritional diet rich in proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats, as well as lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, is essential. Getting enough sleep is essential for hormone regulation and stress reduction. Making such healthy lifestyle changes and choices can play key role in curbing hormonal imbalances in the body and reducing the risk of diabetes and or PCOS. It is also advised to consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment plan, especially if one is planning to conceive a child.

JFK Falls To Red Hot United, 4-1 | News, Sports, Jobs – Warren Tribune Chronicle https://collincountynewsonline.com/jfk-falls-to-red-hot-united-4-1-news-sports-jobs-warren-tribune-chronicle/ Staff photo / Greg Macafee Warren JFK’s Michael Condoleon sends a cross into the box during the Eagles’ matchup with United on Thursday. WARREN — The chilly temperatures brought a hot team to Warren on Thursday when the Golden Eagles of United took on JFK. United (11-1-2) is currently ranked 12th in the state in Division III boys soccer and they handled Kennedy 4-1. “United is a very good team,” JFK coach Anthony Ledenko said. “They’re ranked, and they obviously showed why. “We played them tough last year, but it wasn’t our day today. They’re a talented, hungry team.” It was a physical battle early on. JFK junior goalie Nico Ciminero made a diving stop, but United went ahead 1-0 on a penalty kick by junior Matthew Logan after a hand-ball went against Kennedy. United made it 2-0 when sophomore Maddox Andrea put it into the back of the net after the ball ricocheted off of the side of the goal. “It was a hard fought match,” Andrea said. “It was physical. Our defenders played phenomenal.” The United defense kept JFK off of the scoreboard in the first half. Riley Littler almost bent one in from long range and Michael Condoleon just missed a penalty kick. Nick Ryan also nearly scored on a header, but the score remained 2-0 at the break. JFK is now 10-3-1 on the season with an undefeated 6-0 record in conference play. “It’s been a great year,” Ledenko said. “We like to play good teams. We have three games left in the regular season. This was a wellness check today.” Things continued to go well for United in the second half. The Golden Eagles scored less than 3 minutes after the half started and again 30 seconds later to make it 4-0. “This was a good test for us today,” said United senior Grant Irwin. “It’ll help to get us ready for the postseason. We want to go further than we’ve ever gone before.” United has been on a roll in recent seasons with their best finish being a trip to the regional semifinals after a district title in 2017. They’ve shut down opponents this year by surrendering a total of 4 goals in 14 games. “We’ve had eleven shutouts this season,” United coach Curtis Jones said. “We talk about having clean sheets. A shutout isn’t all about the goalie. It’s about everybody out there. This was only the fourth goal that we’ve allowed all season.” Jones doesn’t really care about the state rankings. “I don’t pay too much attention to it,” he said. “The kids care about it and that’s okay. They want to move up in the rankings. “We have four guys that have scored double-digit goals this season. I’m proud of them.” Today’s breaking news and more in your inbox

JetSynthesys Acquires Metaphy Labs To Strengthen Its Metaverse Capabilities – BestMediaInfo https://collincountynewsonline.com/jetsynthesys-acquires-metaphy-labs-to-strengthen-its-metaverse-capabilities-bestmediainfo/ Metaphy Labs will empower brands to create their own end-to-end metaverse capabilities and leverage the $2.5 trillion global opportunity for meta commerce Digital entertainment and technology company, JetSynthesys, has announced the acquisition of Metaphy Labs, the solution provider for brands to create their own metaverse capabilities in the Web 3.0 space. With Metaphy Labs, JetSynthesys aims to facilitate the democratisation of the metaverse experience by providing ‘metaverse as a service’ (MAAS) to brands, helping them build their own virtual worlds, replete with meta commerce and a wide range of customisable immersive user experiences. JetSynthesys is known for its advanced capabilities in AI/ML, AR/VR/XR, and with this at the helm, Metaphy Labs aims to help brands ramp up user engagement using Web 3 technology to create the same magic for the user sitting at home or anywhere in the world. Meta Commerce is slated to be a $2.5 trillion global opportunity by 2030 as per McKinsey reports. Rajan Navani, Founder and CEO of JetSynthesys, said, “As a digital-first company building Jetverse, JetSynthesys is best poised to accelerate the growth of Web 3.0 space and extend its advanced capabilities to help other brands enter the metaverse too. Our mission has always been to provide best-in-class services to all our clients and end-users, and we are committed to doing the same with Metaphy Labs. We are amongst the early pioneers of providing metaverse solutions in the country and are looking forward to helping brands build best-in-class user experiences. Our vision with the company is to take India to the next level of innovation and disruption within Web 3.0. We aim to partner with multiple stakeholders including public and private sector companies, industry bodies, and government stakeholders to make MAAS the most sought-after capability of the future.” Rakesh S, Co-founder and CEO, Metaphy Labs, added, “We’re thrilled to join JetSynthesys and leverage its platform to further Metaphy Labs’ capabilities. We are creating a product suite that would power metaverses for Indian and global brands in addition to our internal team, which offers end-to-end metaverse solutions. Our objective as JetSynthesys’ Metaphy is to offer a platform ecosystem that enables brands and creators to swiftly develop and release immersive experiences with meta-commerce capabilities.” Girish Menon, Chief Strategy Officer, JetSynthesys, said, “Web 3.0 is the next phase of the internet ecosystem that will transform the future of the digital revolution. As early adopters of this in the country, JetSynthesys’ Metaphy Labs will look at building the metaverse ecosystem and also leverage the high-growth, high-opportunity area of metaverse commerce. With an initial focus on gaming, entertainment, and fashion, our vision is to help SMBs create their own end-to-end metaverse capabilities and also provide engaging experiences to audiences via live concerts, live celebrity engagements, product launches, virtual tournaments, and much more.” Info@BestMediaInfo.com

5 Reasons Why The Yamaha Mio Fazzio Is The Newest Gen Z Icon – Philippine Entertainment Portal https://collincountynewsonline.com/5-reasons-why-the-yamaha-mio-fazzio-is-the-newest-gen-z-icon-philippine-entertainment-portal/ The intense rush hour traffic of Manila makes commuting one of the most stressful parts of our day. So why not take away some stress from your daily commute by switching to a motorcycle? This compact and relatively inexpensive ride can help cut your traveling time in half so you can spend it on doing things you love! If you do decide to scout for it, check out the practical and fashionable Yamaha Mio Fazzio. Here’s why these hip motorcycles should be your next ride: It’s money-saving. In a world of crazy gas price hikes, these fuel-efficient motorcycles are a way for you to save up on gas. (Thanks, Stop & Start System!) At SRP 88,900, these AT motorcycles are totally money-saving because you can save more on gas costs than taking a car. Photo by Yamaha. It’s young, trendy, fresh, and comes in three cool colors. You don’t have to settle for a boring ride—express yourself with a classy one that screams you! These AT motorcycles boast a modern design that breaks the mold of traditional ones. Make a statement with a cool cyan, fiery red, or an elegant ivory white Yamaha Mio Fazzio. It’s easy to handle even for beginners. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner—these motorcycles are automatic and easy to maneuver, so you don’t have to worry about memorizing and changing complicated gears. Its lightweight frame also makes it nimble and easy to move around in traffic. Plus, parking this space-saving baby is a dream! It’s built for functionality and comfort. You want to feel comfortable driving around the city, so look for features that help with that. You’ll appreciate these motorcycles’ ergonomic design—from its spacious knee room, spacious footboard, and Blue Core Hybrid Engine that help make your riding smooth and comfortable. For storage, you have a spacious under-seat compartment, lid pockets, open pocket, and double carabiner-style hooks. Photo by Yamaha. It’s a high-tech next-gen scooter for your digital gadgets. Apart from its portable charging for your gadgets and its LCD panel, it has the Y-Connect, Yamaha’s exclusive app that lets you connect your smartphone to your motorcycle. Use the app to track your fuel consumption, analyze important data about your ride’s status, get notified about any malfunctions, get maintenance recommendations, confirm your last parking location, and more. Cut your traveling time in half, save on gas, and express your unique self by switching to Yamaha Mio Fazzio now! Learn more about the Yamaha Mio Fazzio by visiting Yamaha Motor Philippines’s official website. For updates, follow the brand on Facebook and Instagram.

CEO Exodus: Leaders Step Down As Crypto Firms Feel The Pinch – BeInCrypto https://collincountynewsonline.com/ceo-exodus-leaders-step-down-as-crypto-firms-feel-the-pinch-beincrypto/ CEO exodus: A number of crypto CEOs stepped down from their roles in recent weeks. This has prompted companies to look for new talent elsewhere, or from within. The bear market and an economic recession seems well underway. At least six CEOs have left their jobs since August. These include Michael Moro of Genesis Trading, Sam Trabucco of digital asset trading firm Alameda Research, Jesse Powell of crypto exchange Kraken, Alex Mashinsky of brankrupt Celsius Network, and Brett Harrison, president of FTX U.S. Perhaps the most notable resignation was that of MicroStrategy’s Michael Saylor, a staunch Bitcoin advocate. The news came as the firm reported a second-quarter loss of $1.06 billion. This is largely due to an impairment charge of $917 million based on the value of its BTC holdings. CEO exodus: Leaving the jobs they love All CEOs gave different reasons for quitting the jobs they once loved, positions they held for many years. Mashinsky regrets running the company into the ground, cratering the firm’s balance sheet to the tune of $1.2 billion. As CEO, he’s become a “distraction,” he says. Trabucco was stressed out, “needed to relax and prioritize other things.” As for Powell, he did not see the “fun” in running an outsized company he co-founded eleven years ago. “It’s just gotten to be more draining on me,” he moaned. Moro paid the price for Genesis’ $2.4 billion exposure to Three Arrows Capital (3AC), the failed crypto hedge fund. Together with Celsius and Voyager Digital, it became one of the biggest casualties of the credit contagion from TerraUSD’s $40 billion collapse in May. Harrison never quite explained the reasons behind his unexpected departure after just over a year at the helm. Except to praise himself for growing FTX U.S. employees from three to 100, “working together to build a nascent crypto exchange into a multi-business enterprise.” Changing market conditions Whatever their reasons, the high-profile CEO turnover shows that market conditions in crypto are changing, according to analysts. Profits have tanked and cashflows are thin due to the 2022 bear market. It is a downturn like never before, marked by war, high inflation and fugitive founders. Both the resignation of Genesis’ Moro and Celsius’ Mashinsky are a result of decisions made in the past, at peak bull market hype. The reassignment of Saylor to executive chairman has been thought of in this way, too. The new CEO will refocus on MicroStrategy’s core business of mobile software. The company’s shift away from Bitcoin has been seen by some as an admission of regret over the company’s past involvement with the cryptocurrency. “While the bear market can be the root cause, directors such as Mashinsky left as a result of cascading bankruptcies, lawsuits, and outright violations of financial laws,” Alex Malkov, co-counder of Islamic Coin, told Be[In]Crypto. “The close attention of financial watchdogs, as well as legislative activity, make many top managers reevaluate their actions. The bearish trend has also cut salary privileges customary for large crypto companies in recent times.” CEO exodus and regulation Governments began to tighten crypto regulation after the spectacular collapse of the Terra blockchain in May. It has become clear that the industry is entering a new phase, one that involves direct intervention from regulators. Decentralization is a key tenet of the crypto industry. For platforms like Kraken, prioritizing decentralization means challenging existing regulatory frameworks that entrench power in central authorities like governments. Jesse Powell, a Bitcoin fundamentalist who champions the ethos of privacy and individual freedom, may have resigned on this account, worried about bending to regulatory demands. He told Fortune that he wanted to spend “more time on stuff…like working on product and industry advocacy.” The founder refused to block Russian-linked accounts unless compelled by the law to do so. Brett Harrison, the former FTX U.S. president, summed up the regulatory dilemma. He stated in his resignation notice that the crypto industry was at “a number of crossroads.” But he was more concerned about the arrival of what he called “larger market participants.” The Great Resignation Vadim Keff, a crypto analyst and co-founder of blockchain firm T7T Labs, believes there are several ways to look at the CEO turnover. But he does not think “we should imply” any significant meaning to recent events. “I think that most crypto CEO departures are linked to ‘The Great Resignation’ trend and not to anything crypto specific,” Keff told Be[In]Crypto. He was referring to a wave of resignations by employees during the pandemic, that became known as “The Great Resignation.” Keff pulled a report by accounting firm Deloitte to support his theory. The report showed that around “70% of company leaders in any industry are seriously considering quitting for a job that better supports their well-being.” “As the crypto market is rapidly growing, crypto CEOs will have a tough job to do in leading their companies. It is natural that some CEOs would prefer to step aside especially if they have already been in the managing role for many years,” he added. Where to next? Harrison will continue to work in the industry to remove “technological barriers to full participation in and maturation of global crypto markets.” Sam Trabucco will be spending more time his family and Powell will stay on as Kraken board chair. Got something to say about the CEO exodus or anything else? Join the discussion in our Telegram channel. You can also catch us on Tik Tok, Facebook, or Twitter. Disclaimer All the information contained on our website is published in good faith and for general information purposes only. Any action the reader takes upon the information found on our website is strictly at their own risk.

S.Korea, U.S., Japan To Stage Anti-Submarine Drills Amid N.Korea Tension – Reuters https://collincountynewsonline.com/s-korea-u-s-japan-to-stage-anti-submarine-drills-amid-n-korea-tension-reuters/ SEOUL, Sept 30 (Reuters) – The naval forces of South Korea, the United States and Japan will stage their major trilateral anti-submarine exercises for the first time in five years on Friday, amid tension over North Korea’s recent series of missile tests. The drills will be held in international waters off the Korean peninsula’s east coast, just a day after North Korea fired two ballistic missiles toward its east coast and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris visited Seoul and the heavily fortified border between the two Koreas. “The exercises are designed to improve their capability to respond to increasing North Korean submarine threats, including its submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBM) at a time when it consistently poses nuclear and missile threats with a series of ballistic missile tests,” the South Korean navy said in a statement. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com The one-day drills are a flagship maritime training that has not been conducted since 2017 because the former progressive South Korean government sought to improve inter-Korean relations and facilitate denuclearsation talks between Pyongyang and Washington, which have stalled since 2019. Under the programme, the three countries’ navies will track down a mock North Korean submarine while exchanging information with each other, a South Korean military official said. The exercises will bring together the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier, the 9,800-ton guided missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville, the 6,900-ton Aegis-equipped destroyer USS Barry, South Korea’s 4,400-ton destroyer Munmu the Great and Japan’s 5,100-ton tanker Asahi, among other warships, the South Korean navy said. The drills came days after a U.S.-based think tank said North Korea may be preparing to launch a new submarine believed to be capable of firing ballistic missiles, citing commercial satellite imagery. South Korea’s military has also detected signs that the isolated country might be gearing up for an SLBM test, Yonhap news agency reported on Saturday. Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.com Reporting by Hyonhee Shin; Editing by Jamie Freed Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

Sempolinski Sponsors 21st Century Assistive Technology Act | Greater Olean, NY News TAPinto – TAPinto.net https://collincountynewsonline.com/sempolinski-sponsors-21st-century-assistive-technology-act-greater-olean-ny-news-tapinto-tapinto-net/ Sempolinski Sponsors 21st Century Assistive Technology Act | Greater Olean, NY News TAPinto  TAPinto.net

Tua Tagovailoa Removed From Field After Second Head Hit In Two Games – The New York Times https://collincountynewsonline.com/tua-tagovailoa-removed-from-field-after-second-head-hit-in-two-games-the-new-york-times/ N.F.L.|Tua Tagovailoa Removed From Field After Second Head Hit in Two Games https://www.nytimes.com/2022/09/29/sports/football/tua-tagovailoa-head-injury.html The N.F.L. quarterback left Thursday’s game on a stretcher after his head was slammed to the turf. The players’ union had previously asked for an investigation of his team’s handling of the concussion protocol. Send any friend a story As a subscriber, you have 10 gift articles to give each month. Anyone can read what you share. Medical staff examined Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa after he was hit in the second quarter on Thursday night.Credit…Andy Lyons/Getty Images Sept. 29, 2022 Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was carted off the field on a stretcher during a game Thursday night after he appeared to experience his second head injury in less than a week when he was thrown to the ground, hitting his head on the turf. Midway through the second quarter of a game between Miami and the Cincinnati Bengals, Tagovailoa dropped back to pass around midfield. Bengals defensive tackle Josh Tupou grabbed Tagovailoa, spun him around and threw him to the ground. Tagovailoa’s elbow hit the ground first, and then the back of his helmet. Tagovailoa immediately raised his hands with his fingers splayed, a gesture called a “fencing response” that can be a sign of brain injury. Dolphins trainers ran onto the field and, after several minutes, put Tagovailoa on a stretcher and wheeled him off the field. A few minutes later, the broadcasters announced that Tagovailoa had sustained head and neck injuries, was conscious and had been taken to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. The team said on Twitter that he had movement in all his extremities. Dolphins Coach Mike McDaniel told a sideline reporter that the injury was a “scary moment.” Chris Nowinski, the chief executive of the Concussion Legacy Foundation, who has often criticized the N.F.L.’s handling of concussions, was unsparing on Thursday night. “This is a disaster,” he wrote on Twitter soon after Tagovailoa was wheeled off the field. “Pray for Tua. Fire the medical staffs and coaches. I predicted this and I hate that I am right.” But Tagovailoa’s injury raised fresh questions about the Dolphins’ handling of the league’s concussion protocol, which first arose because of the team’s decision to allow him to re-enter a game against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday after a hit in which he appeared to slam his head on the turf left him wobbly. In the second quarter of that game in Miami Gardens, Fla., Tagovailoa was pushed to the ground, hit his head, grabbed the sides of his helmet, staggered to his feet and, after taking a few steps, fell to his knees. He walked off the field and spent the rest of the first half in the locker room, but he returned to play in the second half. His return prompted the N.F.L. Players Association to begin an inquiry into the Dolphins’ handling of the injury, an option added to the collective bargaining agreement in 2020. The process includes reviewing video and interviewing team and league doctors who diagnosed Tagovailoa. The process can take weeks. The union said on Twitter on Thursday that it hoped Tagovailoa would have “a full and speedy recovery” and that its investigation was ongoing. On Wednesday, the N.F.L. said that it welcomed the inquiry into the handling of this incident on Sunday. On a conference call with reporters, Jeff Miller, the league’s executive vice president of communications, public affairs and policy, said that “every indication” was that the league protocols were followed. The Dolphins listed Tagovailoa as “questionable” on the team’s injury report ahead of Thursday’s game with a “back/ankle” issue. After Tagovailoa’s exit from a second game, the league’s confidence in its concussion protocols could be questioned anew. His injury in a prime time N.F.L. game followed that of Bills cornerback Dane Jackson, who was also carted off the field during a Monday night game on Sept. 19 after he inadvertently collided with teammate Tremaine Edmunds. The hit caused Jackson’s head and neck to snap back. He was released from Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo the following day after being cleared by a CT scan. “It brings us back to the reality of the violence of the game, and I hope it gives people perspective,” said the veteran cornerback Richard Sherman, a commentator for Amazon, which broadcast Thursday’s game. “These are human beings and they have families and they have futures and they’re putting it all out on the line to entertain people.”

Collin County Master Gardeners Association Fall Plant Sale Oct. 1 – North Texas E-News https://collincountynewsonline.com/collin-county-master-gardeners-association-fall-plant-sale-oct-1-north-texas-e-news/ Save the date! McKinney, Texas — The Collin County Master Gardeners Association Fall Plant Sale is slated for Saturday, October 1, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Show Barn at Myers Park & Event Center. Fall is the best time of year in North Texas to plant flowers, shrubs and trees. Each year our Fall fundraiser gives local gardeners an opportunity to purchase a wide variety of locally grown plants and bulbs that are well suited to our North Texas climate and gardens. The sale is held, rain or shine, in the Show Barn at Myers Park and Event Center. Come early for best selection and bring your own wagon or cart

Gadsden Area Siblings Witness History On Vacation Trip To England – Gadsden Times https://collincountynewsonline.com/gadsden-area-siblings-witness-history-on-vacation-trip-to-england-gadsden-times/ Skip to main content This content is only available to subscribers. Get unlimited digital access. $1 for 6 months. Your subscription supports: Investigative reporting that makes our community a better place to work, live and play Expert coverage of high school sports teams The best tips on places to eat and things to do Daily newsletter with top news to know Mobile apps including immersive storytelling This content is only available to subscribers. Get unlimited digital access. $1 for 6 months. Your subscription supports: Investigative reporting that makes our community a better place to work, live and play Expert coverage of high school sports teams The best tips on places to eat and things to do Daily newsletter with top news to know Mobile apps including immersive storytelling

LIVE: Lt Gen Anil Chauhan (Retd) To Take Charge As New CDS Today – Hindustan Times https://collincountynewsonline.com/live-lt-gen-anil-chauhan-retd-to-take-charge-as-new-cds-today-hindustan-times/ Live Updated on Sep 30, 2022 08:15 AM IST Breaking news September 30, 2022: Get latest news, breaking news, latest updates, live news, top headlines, breaking business news and top news of the hour. Get latest news, breaking news, latest updates, live news, top headlines, breaking business news and top news of the hour. Welcome to hindustantimes.com updates platform where you can find breaking news from India and across the world. Find fast updates about the latest news as it breaks. Follow all the updates here: Sep 30, 2022 08:15 AM IST Russia to annex 4 occupied Ukraine regions at major ceremony today| Top points In a major escalation of the ongoing war, Russian President Vladimir Putin has recognised the independence of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. Read more Sep 30, 2022 05:46 AM IST Delhi to enforce anti-air pollution plan from Oct 1: All you need to know Authorities across the National Capital Region (NCR) can start imposing restrictions under the revised Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) to combat pollution from Saturday, though curbs are unlikely to come into effect immediately, with the air quality till at least October 2 forecast to be below the preset threshold for mitigation measures to be introduced. Read more Sep 30, 2022 05:45 AM IST New CDS General Anil Chauhan takes over today, theaterisation drive in focus General Anil Chauhan will take over as India’s new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on Friday, more than nine months after the death in a helicopter crash of the country’s first CDS, General Bipin Rawat, officials familiar with the matter said on Thursday. Read more Subscribe to our best newsletters Rahul Gandhi says he’s having knee problem while walking but… | Watch video Published on Sep 30, 2022 07:25 AM IST In n interaction with his party workers in Kerala, Rahul Gandhi said he is having knee pain while walking but every time he is facing any difficulty, some one from the public or from his party is pulling him out of the feeling – doing or saying something, unknowingly. A video of Rahul Gandhi talking about his knee problem is going viral.  Rahul Gandhi unfit for politics, says Himanta Biswa; ‘One moment he’s listening’ Published on Sep 30, 2022 05:56 AM IST Himanta Biswa Sarma said he has been in the dining room of Union home minister Amit Shah, but in the Congress, the reach was only till veranda. The Assam chief minister said he took six months to get used to this BJP culture of personal warmth. LIVE: Lt Gen Anil Chauhan (retd) to take charge as new CDS today Updated on Sep 30, 2022 08:15 AM IST Breaking news September 30, 2022: Get latest news, breaking news, latest updates, live news, top headlines, breaking business news and top news of the hour. Interest rates on small savings schemes raised Published on Sep 30, 2022 12:35 AM IST With hardening of interest rates in the country and abroad, the government on Thursday decided to pass some benefits to select depositors of certain small savings schemes. Centre may nudge depts over vacancies reserved for Scheduled Castes Updated on Sep 30, 2022 12:33 AM IST The Union government may nudge its departments and public sector firms to fill up backlog reserved vacancies for Scheduled Castes (SCs) at the earliest. ByRajeev Jayaswal, New Delhi Gehlot and Pilot supporters continue to be at loggerheads Published on Sep 30, 2022 12:23 AM IST The tussle between supporters of Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot and his former deputy, Sachin Pilot, continued on Thursday. Confusion over Rajasthan CM post amid Congress internal turmoil Updated on Sep 30, 2022 07:03 AM IST Gehlot’s rival, former deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot, met Gandhi in Delhi late on Thursday and later said that the party had to work together to win the state polls in 2023. Pilot has previously unsuccessfully laid claim to the chief minister’s chair. New CDS General Anil Chauhan takes over today, theaterisation drive in focus Updated on Sep 30, 2022 05:21 AM IST His appointment as CDS has drawn considerable interest as it is the first time a three-star officer has been brought back from retirement to hold a four-star rank (the Cabinet approved the creation of the post of CDS in the rank of a four-star general in December 2019). ByRahul Singh, New Delhi: Armed forces can take disciplinary action against personnel over adultery: SC Updated on Sep 30, 2022 07:34 AM IST The decriminalisation of adultery cannot stand in the way of the army taking action against officers for misconduct, the Supreme Court has said. Over 3.5mn register for army recruitment under Agnipath Published on Sep 30, 2022 12:19 AM IST The army is conducting 96 recruitment rallies across the country this year, with 30 already completed, 12 underway, and the rest to be organised in December, said one of the officials cited above, asking not to be named. “The response to the Agnipath scheme has been good, and the number of applicants is in the same range as it was in the previous years under the legacy recruitment system,” he said. ‘Kerala is home for me’, says Rahul as yatra ends in state Published on Sep 30, 2022 12:15 AM IST After the yatra ended its Kerala phase at Vazhikaddavu here, Gandhi and senior Congress leaders Jairam Ramesh and Digvijaya Singh thanked the KPCC and UDF leaders, party workers and everyone else who participated in the foot march during the over 18 days it spent in the state Supreme Court quizzes Centre over delay in framing data privacy law Updated on Sep 30, 2022 05:02 AM IST The Supreme Court on Thursday questioned the Centre over its delay in framing a law to protect the data privacy of its citizens despite right to privacy being declared a fundamental right by the top court in 2017. ByAbraham Thomas, New Delhi KCR may launch his ‘national’ party on Vijaya Dasami, fate of TRS not clear yet Published on Sep 30, 2022 12:12 AM IST A meeting of the TRS legislature party would be held at Telangana Bhavan, the party headquarters, at around noon on the day, where a one-line resolution would be adopted on the formation of the national party by the chief minister 175 held in crackdown on drug networks: CBI Updated on Sep 30, 2022 01:07 AM IST As many as 127 first information reports (FIRs) were filed by the two agencies involved in ‘Operation Garuda’ that was carried out to “disrupt, degrade and dismantle” drug networks with international linkages, the CBI said in a statement. Centre rejects T’gana’s fresh study demand on Polavaram Published on Sep 30, 2022 12:11 AM IST Secretary in the ministry of Jal Sakthi Pankaj Kumar conveyed it to the Telangana irrigation department authorities during a virtual meeting with officials of the four states – Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh — to discuss the backwater effects of the Polavaram project Story Saved New Delhi 0C Friday, September 30, 2022

National Walk, Roll To School Day Set For Oct. 5 – Tahlequah Daily Press https://collincountynewsonline.com/national-walk-roll-to-school-day-set-for-oct-5-tahlequah-daily-press/ Shape Your Future, a program of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust, and the Active Living and Transportation Committee of Cherokee County are promoting healthy habits and encouraging physical activity by inviting students, families, and communities to walk and roll to school on Oct. 5. Cherokee County’s Walk and Roll to School Day events include Cherokee Elementary, Greenwood Elementary, Heritage Elementary, Hulbert Public Schools, and – new this year – Briggs Public School. Each school site will meet at 7:30 a.m. at the designated locations and begin walking shortly after. Each eligible student at the different school sites, will be sent home with a flyer that includes a map of the drop-off locations and walking routes. “Starting healthy habits early can help children grow into healthy adults, continuing those habits as they get older,” said Julie Bisbee, executive director of TSET. “Active transportation such as walking, biking or even riding a scooter to school is a simple and easy way for children to add physical activity into their daily lives.” National Walk and Roll to School Day provides kids, and the adults accompanying them, the opportunity to improve brain health, strengthen bones and muscles, and have fun with friends. The occasion is also a great way to work toward achieving the 60 minutes a day of physical activity for children recommended by the Centers for Disease Control. “Adding a bit of adventure to a child’s daily routine, like walking or rolling to school, can help children connect positive feelings with physical activity,” said Lindsey Durant, TSET Healthy Living Program assistant coordinator serving Cherokee County. “Walking to school can be fun and teach kids that healthy living doesn’t have to be boring or hard. Research shows that when children aged 6 to 13 are physically active, it can immediately improve brain function and, over time, help with learning, judgment and better sleep.” Not only does Walk and Roll to School Day benefit students, but it also positively impacts the community. Since the event began in 1997, the program has kicked off improvements like long-term walking and rolling programs, new sidewalks, and policy changes at schools and in communities. That is because the event offers public officials the opportunity to see and address challenges to active transportation in the community and lowers the amount of morning traffic. The Active Living and Transportation Committee is comprised of partners including the City of Tahlequah, NIWHRC, Cherokee Nation Public Health, Tahlequah BEST, Cherokee County Health Department, OSU Extension, CCHSC, RCORP, TSET Healthy Living Program Serving Cherokee County, and Tahlequah Public Schools. Some Shape Your Future’s tips for a safe Walk and Roll Day include walking with the child; planning a route; teaching the children to stay away from vehicles; looking left-right-left when crossing the street; telling kids to never talk to strangers; and to wear bright colored clothing to increase visibility. For more kid-friendly physical activity tips and ideas on living healthy for all Oklahomans, visit ShapeYourFutureOK.com.

Dolphins’ Tua Tagovailoa Taken Off On Stretcher During Thursday Night Matchup With Bengals After Sack – CBS Sports https://collincountynewsonline.com/dolphins-tua-tagovailoa-taken-off-on-stretcher-during-thursday-night-matchup-with-bengals-after-sack-cbs-sports/ Katie Stratman / USA TODAY Sports Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa came into Thursday night’s matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals questionable to play with back and ankle injuries, but he did suit up. Late in the second quarter, however, he was taken off the field on a stretcher after taking a violent sack.  On second-and-7, Tagovailoa was sacked by Bengals defensive lineman Josh Tupou for a loss of 10 yards. Tagovailoa went down on his already-injured back, and appeared to hit his head as well. It was a frightening scene, as Tagovailoa raised his hands with what was described by the Amazon broadcast as a neurological response to head trauma. He remained on the turf for several minutes before ultimately being loaded on a stretcher and taken off the field. Teddy Bridgewater replaced Tagovailoa under center. The Dolphins quickly ruled Tagovailoa out with what they classified as head and neck injuries. The team also said he was conscious and had movement in all his extremities. Per Amazon’s broadcast, Tagovailoa was taken to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. NFL Media reported Tagovailoa was transported there via ambulance. Many hypothesized Tagovailoa suffered a concussion last week against the Buffalo Bills after taking a hard sack from linebacker Matt Milano. Miami’s QB was stumbling on the field after the hit, causing many to believe he had suffered a head injury. He exited and returned to the game, however, and finished out the 21-19 win. The NFLPA said afterward it would review whether the Dolphins followed the concussion protocol, but the team has maintained it was a back issue. Tagovailoa completed 8 of 14 passes for 110 yards and one interception on Thursday night before exiting the game.  Tagovailoa entered this matchup second in the NFL with 925 passing yards, and tied for third in passing touchdowns with eight.

Walmart Partners With Roblox To Boost Shopping Activity Via Metaverse – CoinGeek https://collincountynewsonline.com/walmart-partners-with-roblox-to-boost-shopping-activity-via-metaverse-coingeek/ Home » Business » Walmart partners with Roblox to boost shopping activity via metaverse Walmart is taking a bold leap into the metaverse after teasing customers since the start of the year. The shopping conglomerate has unveiled two different experiences for shoppers: Walmart Land and Walmart Universe of Play. Walmart’s offering leverages Roblox, a global virtual gaming platform, to make the service available to customers. The partnership has been designed as a “testing ground” for Walmart to fine-tune its metaverse strategy, particularly for younger Millennials and Gen Zs. The virtual experiences from Walmart’s Universe of Play will allow users to play games drawn from top-selling toys like Paw Patrol and Jurassic World characters during the holiday season. On the other hand, Walmart Land features an obstacle course made up of oversized products from makeup and skincare brands with a firm focus on female shoppers. “How are we driving relevance in cultural conversation? How are we developing community and engagement? How are we moving the needle from a brand favorability [standpoint] with younger audiences?” said William White, Walmart’s Chief Marketing Officer. Walmart’s push into the metaverse and distributed ledger technology (DLT) is predicated on the need to boost its revenues after earnings fell during the pandemic. Since then, shoppers’ habits have changed, and in line with the increasing digitization, Walmart is seeking greater interaction across social media and gaming websites. The shopping giant says it is not looking to make money off its metaverse foray, but this could all change in the future. In the coming years, Walmart might consider charging brands for an advertisement spot in its immersive world or convert the experiences to online purchases or real-world store visits. Presently, users of the virtual world have a chance to earn tokens on Roblox, which can be used to buy other virtual merchandise on Roblox. Laying the foundation Last year, Walmart dropped the first signs that it was considering a move into the metaverse by filing several trademarks with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The patents revealed that the big-box retailer was mulling over releasing digital assets like non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and the details contained in them indicated an elaborate plan from Walmart. “There is a lot of language in these, which shows that there’s a lot of planning going on behind the scenes about how they’re going to address cryptocurrency, how they’re going to address the metaverse and the virtual world that appears to be coming or that’s already here,” trademark lawyer Josh Gerben said. Roblox has carved a name for itself in the immersive experiences ecosystem with a deep pool of high-profile partners ranging from Nike, Ralph Lauren, NASCAR, and Forever 21. Watch: The BSV Global Blockchain Convention panel, Blockchain: Data Power-Ups and NFTs for eSports & Online Games New to Bitcoin? Check out CoinGeek’s Bitcoin for Beginners section, the ultimate resource guide to learn more about Bitcoin—as originally envisioned by Satoshi Nakamoto—and blockchain.

Tim Drake’s Newest Upgrades Comes From His Worst Suit – CBR – Comic Book Resources https://collincountynewsonline.com/tim-drakes-newest-upgrades-comes-from-his-worst-suit-cbr-comic-book-resources/ The following article contains spoilers from Tim Drake: Robin #1, on sale now. Tim Drake’s new solo series has introduced not only a new part of Gotham City to be explored, but also given Tim some pretty cool upgrades. Tim Drake: Robin #1 (by Meghan Fitzmartin, Riley Rossmo, Lee Loughridge, and Tom Napolitano) saw its titular hero unveil a new feature in his costume. When he needed to move quickly and scan an area, Tim jumped off a building, activating a flight function in his cape that allowed him to fly. While this may be a new function for his current costume, it actually isn’t the first time he’s employed such tech. This kind of functionality comes from what many fans will argue is the worst costume Tim ever wore during the New 52. With this added feature though, Tim reclaims what is arguably the most useful tool he’s ever had, and incorporated it in such a way that it avoids the criticism fans had about his New 52 look. Now, in Tim’s defense, the New 52 came with a whole range of changes for multiple characters, many of them relating to their classic costumes. More than a few fans were upset about the loss of Superman and Batman’s classic trunks. That being said, Tim drake’s costume when he was operating under the Red Robin moniker got an incredible amount of backlash from fans. It was so disliked in fact that even in comics the other members of the Bat-Family still occasionally make fun of Tim for it. In all honesty, the costume wasn’t the worst he’s ever worn, but many fans were disappointed by the loss of the original Red Robin costume. Tim dropped the cowl, suddenly wore two belts across his chest, and his cape was replaced with one that was meant to act as bird wings, separating when he needed to take flight. While it might not be his most popular costume, the wings were easily the best gadget he’s ever used, having a variety of purposes. Now, it seems that he’s reclaimed that part of his past. His current cape still looks like a classic Robin cape, but it can now take on a wing-like function without going too overboard in the design. Now that this feature is a part of his arsenal again, Tim doesn’t have to worry about swinging through Gotham or chasing people over rooftops, He can instead just quickly fly above the streets, avoiding traffic and obstacles altogether. He’s already made excellent use of it when his new enemy once against struck with a spectral animal, looking for the source of the construct overhead instead of wasting time searching on foot. Looking closer now, Tim’s new wings are oddly suited towards his new neighborhood. The marina of Gotham is filled with open space, and if he’s going to patrol here he’ll probably have to pursue or sneak onto more than one boat. Having wings to glide across the water isn’t just a smart decision, it is a necessary one.

Will Rate Hikes Spell More Trouble For Crypto Markets?s – Business Standard https://collincountynewsonline.com/will-rate-hikes-spell-more-trouble-for-crypto-marketss-business-standard/ Global recession fears, stronger dollar, higher interest rates and spike in bond yields, are building pressure over the crypto markets. Since crypto markets move in tandem with global equity markets, the ongoing volatility in the US markets have cast a shadow on crypto-currencies as well. All the three major indexes in the US markets like Dow Jones, NASDAQ Composite, and the S&P 500 have shed in the range of 19 per cent to 30 per cent so far this year. Therefore, the promise of more rate hikes proclaimed by the US Fed till 2023 is likely to keep crypto markets volatile too. According to coinmarketcap.com, the global market capitalisation of crypto assets has tumbled over 57 per cent to 935 billion dollars, so far this year. Popular crypto asset Bitcoin, for instance, has tanked nearly 60 per cent so far in 2022. Other assets like Ethereum, BNB, Solana, Dogecoin and Polkadot have declined in the range of 46 per cent to 81 per cent, during the same period. Analysts believe that the reduced risk appetite among investors compelled them to shift to less riskier assets like bonds. Going ahead, they expect the volatility in crypto markets to continue in the near-term. Minal Thukral, Executive Vice-President, Growth and Strategy, CoinDCX, says equity selling pressure to cast a shadow. Crypto markets continue to be sideways. Ethereum, Bitcoin are deflationary assets. On the other hand, Devangshu Datta, independent market expert, says that the lack of any fundamental benchmark makes crypto assets a riskier bet to hold for the long-term horizon. Devangshu Datta, Independent Market Expert, says Bitcoin’s decline up to 99% possible. No fundamental benchmark for crypto. Crypto assets not a safe bet for long-term. Meanwhile, technical charts suggest a ‘death cross’ pattern for bitcoin, which signals a bearish market ahead. As regards today, investors will closely track the Reserve Bank of India’s interest rate stance post the 3-day monetary policy committee meeting. According to experts, the central bank is likely to raise interest rates up to 50 basis points. FII flows, rupee movement and crude oil prices, will also be on investors’ radar.

U.S., Allies To Increase Pressure On Russia Following Annexation – The Washington Post https://collincountynewsonline.com/u-s-allies-to-increase-pressure-on-russia-following-annexation-the-washington-post/ On the eve of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s intention to formally annex four Ukrainian regions, the United States and its allies put the finishing touches on their plans to respond with measures designed to significantly increase the military, diplomatic and economic pressure they believe will eventually box Putin into an intolerable position. New sanctions are to be announced on entities inside Russia, and those on the outside that contribute to its war effort, according to U.S. and European Union officials. Long-term commitments are being made to ensure the continued flow of Western weapons to Ukraine. Fence-sitting nations are being cajoled and pressured to take a stand against Moscow. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday repeated that “the United States does not, and will never, recognize the legitimacy or outcome of these sham referendums or Russia’s purported annexation of Ukrainian territory.” No one appears to believe such statements will immediately deter Putin, nor will any of the planned punishments impose an immediate cost. But over the past 10 days — since Russia rapidly organized referendums in Ukrainian territories its military forces partially occupy, received the expected overwhelming popular endorsement in staged votes held this week, and scheduled a Putin signing ceremony for Friday — the allied governments have tried to match Moscow’s speed. At the United Nations last week, President Biden rewrote portions of his General Assembly speech at the last minute to make the just-announced referendums, and a veiled Putin threat to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine, a centerpiece, a senior administration official said. In a message directed at those nations who saw the “democracy versus autocracy” rhetoric that had characterized debates over Ukraine as far from their own concerns, this was seen as an issue that would hit closer to home for many. It was “no secret” that the United States “is determined to defend and strengthen democracy,” Biden said. But Russia’s attempt to seize another country by force, and change its borders unilaterally, was a violation of the U.N. Charter that “was negotiated among citizens of dozens of nations with vastly different histories and ideologies,” and designed to protect them all. “No matter what else we may disagree on,” he said, “that is the common ground upon which we must stand.” To sweeten the pot, Biden then said he supported efforts to expand the U.N. power base in the Security Council — dominated by the World War II victors who created the institution — to include nations from the global South. Several U.S. and European officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive issue, said there was evidence the argument was having some resonance. Major countries such as China and India have recently raised questions about how Putin was handling the situation, as were some smaller nations. “Russia having announced that they would simply annex territory, and make that part of Russia, also covered by a nuclear umbrella — that is so monumental, so outrageous, that it has catapulted the principle of territory integrity,” a senior European official said. “These countries cannot stay aloof, cannot stay on the fence, about a crucial principle of international law that could actually be used against them. Something has changed” in their calculus, the official said. “I think … a lot of the countries that have tried to keep their heads down and not weigh in are going to have a really hard time swallowing the annexation thing,” said a senior U.S. defense official. Proof of the argument may come with a possible Friday vote on a U.S.-introduced U.N. Security Council resolution condemning the annexations. “We expect that Russia will do what Russia always does — they will veto it,” U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said in announcing the resolution this week. “We plan to have solid support for it.” Western allies will be closely watching countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Gabon and India, who have abstained on previous measures criticizing Russian actions in Ukraine. If they are disappointed by the votes of those countries or others, “then we will move it to the General Assembly, if we have to, as we did in the past.” The last General Assembly vote on the Russian invasion, in March, brought 35 abstentions. “I think you can anticipate, if Putin goes ahead with this scheme, and I think we assume that he will, that there will be some significant political and economic consequences, in addition to the security stuff,” the U.S. defense official said. “And then, by the way, we’re just going to continue doing what we’re doing. Which is there will be more security assistance packages.” The allies are eager to demonstrate to Putin that his hopes that the West will lose enthusiasm for the war — as attention is drawn to other issues, as it continues to drain the allies of money and weaponry, and in the medium term, as the coming winter strains European energy supplies — will not be fulfilled. Earlier this month, at a meeting of the 40-plus-nation Ukraine contact group created to encourage and coordinate weapons donations and delivery to Ukraine, the emphasis was on sustainment, and the commitment to building what the defense official called Ukraine’s “2023 [military] force.” A pending Pentagon announcement of an additional $1.1 billion in long-term U.S. military aid was moved up to Wednesday, to demonstrate U.S. staying power before Putin’s upcoming annexation. The package included 18 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launchers, or HIMARS. The 16 HIMARS already sent are credited with playing a significant role in the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian artillery battle for the eastern and southeastern part of the country, where Russian forces are dug in. Unlike the earlier shipments that were drawn from existing U.S. stocks, the new systems have yet to be manufactured and will likely take years to arrive. The aid package, bringing total U.S. military aid to $16.2 billion since the start of the war in February, also includes 150 Humvees, 150 vehicles for towing artillery, radars, counter drone systems and body armor. Funding for the new HIMARS and much of planned future aid, as existing U.S. stocks diminish, comes from the Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act (USAI), a multibillion-dollar fund that the administration is hoping Congress will replenish in the pending Continuing Resolution for the rest of this year. The Senate passed the stopgap measure Thursday, and it now moves to the House. “Right now, we’re essentially announcing about a billion dollars of [drawdown], and a billion dollars of USAI every month,” the defense official said. “It goes up and down, but that’s the order of magnitude. And if Congress provides the money that we’ve asked for — and I’m optimistic that they will — we’ll be able to sustain that rate through the end of this calendar year, until we have a formal budget.” The European Union took the lead Wednesday in announcing a new draft of its eighth sanctions law, including proposing a price cap on the global purchase of Russian oil. The measures, to be discussed at a meeting of E.U. ambassadors Friday, include new export bans on the Russian purchase of European appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers, which officials say the Russian military is using to extract chips banned by earlier sanctions. Additional new proposed import bans include the European purchase of an expanded range of Russian products. “Russia has escalated the invasion of Ukraine to a new level” with the referendums and annexation, E.U. Commission President Ursula von der Leyden said during a news conference. “And we are determined to make the Kremlin pay the price for this further escalation.” The new sanctions, she said, would be “biting.” U.S. officials declined to specify additional sanctions they plan to announce Friday. War in Ukraine: What you need to know The latest: Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a “partial mobilization” of troops in an address to the nation on Sept. 21, framing the move as an attempt to defend Russian sovereignty against a West that seeks to use Ukraine as a tool to “divide and destroy Russia.” Follow our live updates here. The fight: A successful Ukrainian counteroffensive has forced a major Russian retreat in the northeastern Kharkiv region in recent days, as troops fled cities and villages they had occupied since the early days of the war and abandoned large amounts of military equipment. Annexation referendums: Staged referendums, which would be illegal under international law, are set to take place from Sept. 23 to 27 in the breakaway Luhansk and Donetsk regions of eastern Ukraine, according to Russian news agencies. Another staged referendum will be held by the Moscow-appointed administration in Kherson starting Friday. Photos: Washington Post photographers have been on the ground from the beginning of the war — here’s some of their most powerful work. How you can help: Here are ways those in the U.S. can help support the Ukrainian people as well as what people around the world have been donating. Read our full coverage of the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Are you on Telegram? Subscribe to our channel for updates and exclusive video.