Denton County News Online

Brown: Current State Of Iowa Football Brings To Mind ’14 Postseason – Sports Illustrated https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/brown-current-state-of-iowa-football-brings-to-mind-14-postseason-sports-illustrated/ IOWA CITY, Iowa – The headline reads, “Change, challenges ahead for Ferentz.” It might surprise you that it didn’t appear in an Iowa newspaper over the last few days. No, this headline was at the top of the Des Moines Register sports section on Jan. 15, 2015. Ferentz had appeared at a news conference the day before, and spent 37 minutes visiting with the media. “My sense is that we needed to talk,” he said. That news conference was called because the natives were restless. Iowa was coming off an underachieving 7-6 season, which included a humbling 45-28 loss to Tennessee in the TaxSlayer Bowl in Jacksonville, Fla. The Hawkeyes trailed at halftime, 35-7. Ferentz discussed how he planned to bring Hawkeye football back to the level it had been for the better part of his first 16 seasons as head coach. “What’s important is to make sure we cover the territory we need to cover, to come up with a good game plan, and again, not just change things to change things. I think that’s really a waste of time and effort. But the big thing is to really look and find out what we need to tinker with and what we need to adjust and then go about it in a smart, logical way and make sure we do that right.” One of those changes had been made public six days earlier, when Iowa released an updated depth chart. C.J. Beathard, the backup quarterback in 2014, was listed as the starter. Jake Rudock, the incumbent, who had passed for 2,436 yards in 2014 with 16 touchdowns and five interceptions, was listed as the No. 2 signal caller. Releasing a depth chart so soon after the completion of a season was something new for Ferentz football. So was the change in quarterbacks. It marked the first – and only – time in the Ferentz era that the incumbent didn’t head into the next season as the starter. In a release that accompanied the depth chart, Ferentz called it “a starting point.” But it ended weeks of speculation around Beathard, who was rumored to be considering a transfer. There ultimately was a transfer. Rudock, who had started 25 of Iowa’s previous 26 games, headed to Michigan and coached Jim Harbaugh’s first team to a 10-3 season. Beathard took over and guided the 2015 Iowa team to a 12-0 regular-season record, the Big Ten Championship Game and the Rose Bowl. Since the Beathard-for-Rudock flip of the quarterback coin in 2015, Iowa went 63-25 over the next seven seasons. Including the 12-win season in 2015, the Hawkeyes won 10 games in 2019 and 2021. All seven teams won at least eight games and earned a bowl bid. The Hawkeyes headed into 2022 with some momentum and the fan base bought in. All seven home games were sold out. A stellar defense returned. There were some question marks about the offense, which was said to be undergoing a retooling process in the off-season to make it more productive under offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz’s watch. Scroll to Continue And then the season kicked off. And it took just two games to take us back to January of 2015. The Hawkeyes head into Saturday night’s game against Nevada at Kinnick Stadium dead last nationally in first downs, yards per play and total offense. Optimism has been replaced by a pessimistic buzz we haven’t heard since the end of the 2014 season. When your offense is stuck in mud and then your heralded defense gives up a 99-yard game-winning drive to your state rival, who can blame the doubters? Ferentz has dug Iowa football out of a hole four times so far, in 1999, 2007, 2012 and 2014. Now the heat is on again. I wrote these words in a column after that Jan. 14, 2015 news conference with Ferentz. They still ring true today: “Ferentz is still invested in the program. He’s not treading water, collecting his much discussed paycheck. But can he fix this? Can Iowa football, a program he rebuilt into a national player, dig its way out of mediocrity one more time?” That is the $64,000 question. I also wrote this in 2015: “Don’t look for Iowa football to become a run-and-shoot offensive attack, or a team that is obsessed with offense and doesn’t consider defense important. That is not Iowa football, nor will it ever be under Ferentz.” The defense is still there. But the offense is in hiding. And it sure looks like it needs to be remodeled with the way the game is played today. One sign that change is in the wind is the recent commitment of James Resar, a quarterback who is a true run-pass threat. But he’s in the Class of 2024. Though the lack of a passing game has received most of the attention, the bread-and-butter rushing game is still trying to find its way. At the heart of all the hand wringing is the quarterback position. It wasn’t too long ago that fans were bitching and moaning about Nate Stanley, who quarterbacked Iowa to a 27-12 record in three seasons as a starter 2017-2019) including three consecutive bowl victories. Now, some of those same fans would take Stanley back in a heartbeat. Spencer Petras is the man in the bullseye now. He hasn’t played well this season, and he’d be the first to tell you that. But in his defense, the developing offensive line doesn’t always give him the time he needs. Wide receivers Nico Ragaini, Keagan Johnson and Diante Vines have not played a down yet because of injury. Lead running back Gavin Williams has seen limited duty because of injury. Ferentz is sticking with Petras against Nevada, but I hope Alex Padilla gets his shot at some point to see if he can give the offense a spark. Last season, Padilla replaced an injured Petras in the first quarter of a victory at Northwestern, then started the next three games (and victories) against Minnesota, Illinois and Nebraska. History tells us that Ferentz doesn’t like to change quarterbacks. And no one has lost his job due to injury. Beathard for Rudock is one against-the-grain decision. So was going with Ricky Stanzi over Jake Christensen in 2008. Both those changes worked out handsomely. Time will tell if a third is coming. What’s next? As Ferentz said in January of 2015, it’s time to come up with a good game plan.

Ommyo Makes Foray Into Metaverse, Says Zaleski – Khaleej Times https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/ommyo-makes-foray-into-metaverse-says-zaleski-khaleej-times/ The metaverse has captured the interest of social media platforms, online game developers, and other tech pioneers as the next major tech revolution. Dr Tomasz Zaleski. — Supplied photo Published: Fri 16 Sep 2022, 12:38 AM Last updated: Fri 16 Sep 2022, 12:44 AM The Private office of Sheikh Ahmed bin Faisal Al Qassimi is all set to make foray into metaverse with a launch of its new platform ‘Ommyo’, said chairman Dr Tomasz Zaleski. “Ommyo is the most recent economy to emerge in the metaverse developing a dedicated blockchain and a digital currency for payments in the metaverse. The platform consists of a team of developers focused on creating real use cases and connecting real assets like historical places, real estate and businesses that will be hosted in the virtual space of the metaverse,” said Zaleski “Ommyo. Net is dedicated to enhancing the integration of blockchain with our unique metaverse solutions to provide an all-natural look and organic financial growth for our clients, partners and community. Through our news channel, Learn and Earn, Ommyo Academy aims to educate our community and members, with the benefits that new technologies especially in the blockchain space can deliver. Ommyo wants its community to learn and grow opportunities globally.” Ommyo is not developing a gaming platform but is gamifying and dedicating disruptive technology to enhance and grow the local economy making Dubai a technology hub globally. Ommyo Blockchain Development gives developers the freedom to build, develop, and earn using Ommyo Blockchain to boost their earning potential while allowing our strategic partners to nurture and grow existing and new talent. There is currently a significant ecosystem for developing, acquiring, and profiting from decentralised digital assets due to the adoption of non-fungible tokens and cryptocurrency on several blockchain-based platforms. The idea of the metaverse is incomplete without blockchain because of all the limitations of centralised data storage. The potential of blockchain to work globally, as a digital source functioning on the concept of decentralisation, primarily differentiates the metaverse from the capabilities of the traditional internet, which is made up of websites and applications. The blockchain-based metaverse allows users to access any digital space without the intervention of a centralised authority. — business@khaleejtimes.com

Kanye West Explains Why He Terminated His Deal With Gap – XXLMAG.COM https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/kanye-west-explains-why-he-terminated-his-deal-with-gap-xxlmag-com/ Kanye West is terminating his relationship with Gap. In a new interview, the rapper and fashion designer accused the clothing retailer of taking his shirt designs to sell for $20 and pricing the actual Yeezy items at $200. According to a CNBC report, published on Thursday (Sept. 15), Kanye West terminated his partnership with Gap Inc and accused the company of violating their contract. “Yeezy notified Gap of its concerns in August and gave the company a contractually-designated 30 days to cure its breaches,” Nicholas Gravante, a lawyer for Kanye, told the news outlet. The attorney added that Gap took no action on his grievances. In an interview with CNBC’s Closing Bell, Ye accused Gap of various contract violations, including being unable to set the prices he wanted on his collection. “And then they actually took one of the shirts and sold it for $19. So, didn’t price my stuff. Priced my stuff at like $200, above their whole price point normally, and then did the exact same shirt for $20,” Kanye said on the program. “It was very frustrating. It was very disheartening, because I just put everything I had, I put all of my top relationships,” Kanye explained further on Closing B. “Our agenda, it wasn’t aligned.” “Everyone knows that I’m the leader, I’m the king,” he added. “A king can’t live in someone else’s castle. A king has to make his own castle.” This comes after Kanye said he was ready to move on from his corporate partners and compared Gap to a “baby mama.” There was also Kanye’s infamous video where he delivered an angry rant in front of Gap executives. In that video, the Chicago producer warned that he would take his creativity elsewhere. “I love Gap…you have to really give me the position to be Ye and let me do what I’m thinking or I have to do the thinking somewhere else,” he warned. XXL has reached out to Gap for comment. Watch Kanye West Explain Why He’s Terminating His Relationship With Gap See Rappers’ With a History of Ghostwriting

Biden Issues New Order To Block Chinese Investment In Technology In The U.S. – The New York Times https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/biden-issues-new-order-to-block-chinese-investment-in-technology-in-the-u-s-the-new-york-times/ Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker

Prime Gaming Launches Into Autumn With Spooky Octane Skin In Apex Legends – Dot Esports https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/prime-gaming-launches-into-autumn-with-spooky-octane-skin-in-apex-legends-dot-esports/ Another new month of Apex Legends means another new month for Prime Gaming rewards, and Octane players are in for a special treat this month just in time for spooky season. The new Prime Gaming bundle features the new Epic Octane skin Radioactive, bathing Octane and some assorted cosmetics in a ghoulish green glow. There’s extensive animation included in the legend skin, with pulsing and moving neon green effects visible on just about every part of Octane’s skin. There’s also a new design on his facemask that changes out the regular teeth pattern with a skull-like mouth, which only enhances the feel of this skin as one that wouldn’t feel out of place in a Halloween collection. Really, so much work has been done in terms of animation and design on the original skin model that this skin looks more like a Legendary than an Epic-tier rarity. It’s a great skin that’s nearly guaranteed to be a hit with Octane mains, who have never been a group afraid of standing out on the battlefield. In addition to the new legend skin, there’s also a Rare weapon skin for the CAR, Lumbar Puncture, and a Banner Frame offering called Spinal. Both cosmetics make liberal use of the same glowing green color, and both feature a skeletal spine running the length of the gun and banner frame, respectively. All told, it’s definitely a bundle that will look good with the rest of the Halloween-themed skins that will inevitably be released in October. But these ones are completely free. To grab these Prime Gaming skins, you’ll need to head over to the Apex page on the Prime Gaming website, make sure your accounts are linked, and claim your rewards. Once you’ve finished those steps, the cosmetics should be available for you, and you’ll get a message thanking you for using Prime Gaming the next time you log into your Apex client. Remember, this Prime Gaming bundle will be available for free for Prime Gaming members for one month, and then it will be gone for good. No Prime Gaming skin has ever returned to the game. If you like the skin, make sure you grab it at your earliest convenience.

Chinese Court Approves Crypto Trading While Thailand Bans Lending And Staking Services – Kitco NEWS https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/chinese-court-approves-crypto-trading-while-thailand-bans-lending-and-staking-services-kitco-news/ Editor’s Note: With so much market volatility, stay on top of daily news! Get caught up in minutes with our speedy summary of today’s must-read news and expert opinions. Sign up here! (Kitco News) – The regulatory landscape in China just got a little more complicated as a Chinese court has ruled that citizens can still trade cryptos despite the country’s ban on digital asset services and cryptocurrency trading.  According to a recent ruling from the Beijing Number One Intermediate People’s Court, investors are allowed to trade cryptocurrencies but indicated that they should be treated as virtual assets instead of currencies.  The ruling arose from a case involving a crypto loan that was made using Litecoin (LTC) back in 2015. Zhai Wenjie indicated that he loaned his friend Ding Hao 50,000 Litecoin with the agreement that Hao would pay 1,000 LTC in monthly interest.  According to the court, since Litecoin is not issued by a monetary authority and lacks backing from legal and financial frameworks, it cannot be treated as a currency.  “According to real administrative regulations and cases, our country only denies the monetary attributes of virtual currency and prohibits its circulation as currency, but the virtual currency itself is a virtual property protected by the law,” the court ruled. The judge on the case cited a lack of laws prohibiting the perception of Litecoin as an illegal asset, which led the judge to rule in favor of the plaintiff and ordered Hao to return the LTC to Wenjie.  Despite the ban on cryptocurrency services in China, recent data from Chainalysis shows that Chinese citizens have been increasingly utilizing centralized services to get access to crypto, which suggests the ban is being loosely enforced. China currently ranks tenth globally in terms of crypto adoption.  SWIFT explores the use of blockchain technology to improve efficiency Thailand bans crypto lending and staking products Meanwhile, In Thailand, a Thursday press release from the country’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) indicates that the regulator has prohibited cryptocurrency companies from offering digital asset lending and staking products or depository services.  The reason for the decision is to protect traders and the general public from business risks associated with companies offering these services and to protect users from utilizing services that they think meet regulatory requirements – but do not.  This ruling follows the collapse of several notable lending, staking and depository platforms, including the decentralized finance protocol Terra, and the centralized finance providers Celsius and Voyager.  The SEC cited a widespread lack of risk management from crypto stakers and liquidity issues that have led some providers to stop their services and suspend the withdrawal of digital assets as reasons why this ruling was needed. Authorities in Thailand have been tightening their control over the crypto industry in the country since being criticized for failing to protect local investors at Zipmex, a licensed crypto exchange that temporarily suspended withdrawals in July.    Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.

President Biden Announces Three New Nominees To Serve As U.S. Attorneys – The White House https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/president-biden-announces-three-new-nominees-to-serve-as-u-s-attorneys-the-white-house/ President Biden is announcing three new nominees to serve as U.S. Attorneys. These are officials who will be indispensable to upholding the rule of law as top federal law enforcement officials. These individuals were chosen for their devotion to enforcing the law, their professionalism, their experience and credentials, their dedication to pursuing equal justice for all, and their commitment to the independence of the Department of Justice. The President has proposed a budget that would significantly increase funding for law enforcement as part of a comprehensive approach to tackling the rising crime rate this administration inherited last year. The President has also launched a comprehensive effort to take on the uptick in gun crime that has been taking place since 2020—putting more cops on the beat, supporting community prevention programs, and cracking down on illegal gun trafficking. Confirming U.S. Attorneys as the chief federal law enforcement officers in their district is important for these efforts. The President has now announced 60 nominees to serve as U.S. Attorneys. United States Attorney Announcements 1. Roger B. Handberg: Candidate for United States Attorney nominee for the Middle District of Florida Roger B. Handberg has been the appointed United States Attorney for the Middle District of Florida since 2021. Mr. Handberg was an Assistant United States Attorney for the Middle District of Florida from 2002 to 2021. From 1999 to 2002, Mr. Handberg served as a Senior Assistant Attorney General in the Florida Attorney General’s Office. From 1994 to 1999, he was an associate at King & Spalding in Atlanta, Georgia. Mr. Handberg received his J.D. from Harvard Law School in 1994 and his B.A. from the University of North Carolina in 1991. 2. Markenzy Lapointe: Candidate for United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida Markenzy Lapointe has been a partner at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP in Miami, Florida since 2017.  Before joining Pillsbury, Mr. Lapointe was a partner at Boies Schiller & Flexner LLP in Miami, Florida, where he first began working in 2006. From 2002 to 2006, he served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. Mr. Lapointe served as a law clerk for Florida Supreme Court Justice Harry Lee Anstead from 1999 to 2001. Mr. Lapointe received his J.D. from Florida State University College of Law in 1999 and his B.S. from Florida State University in 1993. Mr. Lapointe is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. 3. McLain J. Schneider: Candidate for United States Attorney for the District of North Dakota McLain J. Schneider is a partner at the Schneider Law Firm, where he has worked since 2008. Previously he served in the North Dakota Senate from 2008 to 2016. From 2011 to 2017, Mr. Schneider was an adjunct faculty member at the University of North Dakota School of Law. Mr. Schneider received his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center in 2008 and his B.A. from the University of North Dakota in 2002. ###

Jeremy Allen White Cast In Von Erich Wrestling Family Film – MySA https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/jeremy-allen-white-cast-in-von-erich-wrestling-family-film-mysa/ It appears that A24 has just said “yes chef” to Jeremy Allen White, according to Deadline. The star chef of FX’s The Bear has just been cast in the production company’s upcoming drama, The Iron Claw, charting the fate of infamous Texas wrestling family the Von Erichs.  The news follows the casting of Zac Efron into the silver screen Von Erich clan in June. The film sets out to tell the true story of a family dynasty of professional wrestlers marked by eerie tragedy and a sporting legacy that stretches to the beginning of the 1960s to the present day.  With roots in the Dallas area, the Von Erich’s story is colored by rumors of a family curse, multiple wrestling titles, and a series of devastating suicides and early deaths. At the time of family patriarch Fritz Von Erich’s death in 1997 at his Denton County home, five of his six sons had already preceded him to the grave.  In 2009, The Von Erich family was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as a collective. It is unclear at this time which brawny Von Erich members White and Efron will portray. English actor Harris Dickinson has also been cast in the Sean Durkin-directed film.  Durkin previously garnered praise through his breakout film, Martha Marcy May Marlene, which won him Best Director at Sundance in 2011. His second film, The Nest, premiered at Sundance in 2020. His upcoming A24 wrestling project seats him in the company of other “indie darling” A24 auteurs like the Safdie Brothers, Ari Aster, and Barry Jenkins.  The Bear was a summer success, following White as a down on his luck chef returning to his family’s business in Chicago. White first gained critical acclaim through his role as Lip Gallagher in the series Shameless.

9 Tips To Make Your Gatlinburg Vacation Luxurious – Luxury Travel Magazine https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/9-tips-to-make-your-gatlinburg-vacation-luxurious-luxury-travel-magazine/ Gatlinburg is an escape haven for travel enthusiasts seeking natural landscapes, comfort, and serenity. And if you want to add the element of luxury to the list, Gatlinburg will surely not disappoint. Visiting the Great Smokies can become a luxurious vacation only if you’re careful about planning the trip. Remember that vacations are the perfect way to rejuvenate the spirit. That’s why you shouldn’t hesitate when embarking upon a luxury-filled journey. A careful perusal of our vigilantly-collected tips will help you make your getaway luxurious and pleasant. So, let’s discuss our recommendations for Gatlinburg-bound travelers in 2022: Enjoy cabin amenities Foremost, it’s crucial to book cabins with all the amenities essential for your visit. Search for “Gatlinburg luxury cabins” and choose suitable accommodations based on your preferences and budget. You’ll surely discover some of the finest amenities these cabins offer, such as game rooms, indoor pools, and well-furnished kitchens. These luxurious cabins allow you to unwind with your friends and family once you return after wandering around the streets of Gatlinburg. Travel with class Unarguably, your vacation can become luxurious from the very beginning if you’re traveling with class. Choose some of the most luxurious (and affordable) methods to travel to Gatlinburg, and remember that traveling isn’t just about spending money. You can plan a vacation with your favorite people by renting a fair-looking RV. Or better, you can visit several destinations while traveling to Gatlinburg. Do something unique Luxury isn’t merely about spending money on high-end travel necessities. It’s about the experience you get, and Gatlinburg offers tourists several opportunities to do something exhilarating. Make your time in Gatlinburg memorable by engaging in activities like hiking, kayaking, and mountaineering. These can’t-miss excursions also include catching trout, tasting moonshine, and visiting a place as fun as Anakeesta. Plan your trip after conducting proper research so you can enjoy it properly. Try the off-season Fall is approaching soon, and it’s the ultimate season for Gatlinburg-bound vacationers. We suggest you try visiting this quaint mountain town after October in the off-season. That’s how you can avoid crowds and enjoy wandering around Gatlinburg comfortably. Lessen the traffic volume and enjoy a luxurious adventure near the Great Smokies. However, the off-season doesn’t mean that you’ll hardly find anyone in Gatlinburg – just less crowded streets. Focus on safety Luxury doesn’t come without safety, so make safety your priority while visiting Gatlinburg. It would help if you had traveler’s insurance before starting your journey. Insurance saves you from financial challenges if you encounter an unfortunate incident in Gatlinburg. Don’t neglect the importance of maintaining safety while vacationing around the Great Smokies. Remember that your health isn’t anything other than a luxury. Now, don’t mess with this luxury and ensure safe travels. Book pet-friendly cabins Do you intend to travel with your pets? Statistics reveal that over 50% of travelers take their pets on holiday. If so, you should book pet-friendly cabins for your vacations. Besides, a real luxurious trip means ensuring the comfort and well-being of your furry friends. Make the trip luxurious for your pet by booking a cabin where pets can stay comfortably. Hang out with locals Do you trust the internet to learn about the best tourist spots in Gatlinburg? Experts suggest an individual should meet locals and ask them for quality recommendations. These natives often have first-hand information about the best bars, clubs, and parks in the vicinity. Moreover, people in Gatlinburg are decent and friendly. You can expect them to share some exciting stories and tidbits regarding the past of Gatlinburg. Trust us – approaching them can make your vacation more interesting. Visit local places Don’t forget that the luxury of any vacation lies heavily in the places you intend to visit. The town of Gatlinburg is filled with several historical places as this city emerged in the 19th century. For instance, you can visit the famous Elkmont Ghost Town just 10 miles away. Visiting such places will enable you to learn the culture and heritage of Gatlinburg – a truly immersive experience. Participate in events Search online for some of the most famous annual events held in Gatlinburg. These local events promise entertainment for the whole family, and participating in them can enhance the luxury of the getaway. So, engage in these events to make your vacation as luxurious as possible. For instance, you can attend the Craft Fair held in October. But if you’re planning to attend public events, be prepared for crowds. After the COVID pandemic, travelers began visiting the Great Smokies more often. Interestingly, Gatlinburg became the most visited location in the National Park. It’s estimated that 500,000 people visited this town out of 3 million overall travelers to the Great Smokies. If you’re fond of mingling with other travel enthusiasts, don’t forget to participate in events happening in Gatlinburg. Final Thoughts Travel comfortably by booking luxurious cabins in Gatlinburg as early as possible. Visit charming places, mingle with locals, and participate in different events. Similarly, explore various activities to add to your list of unique adventures and ensure a pet-friendly stay for your furry friend. Following these tips will make your Gatlinburg trip and unforgettable experience.

Latest Business News India Today 16 September 2022 | News Headlines – Tentaran https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/latest-business-news-india-today-16-september-2022-news-headlines-tentaran/ Please follow and like us: Here’s today business news, the latest business news India today 16 September 2022 Air India draws its transformation plan, to expand and target a 30% market share in the next 5 years. Vridhi Techno Farms Private Ltd.. a startup based in Coimbatore has been recognized by the government for its successful business model. AIRO Group, the company developing air taxis with L&T has started the process to launch its IPO in the US. Tamilnad Mercantile Bank made a market debut with a 3% fall from its issue price. Buy Online Books in India – Buy Deepshikha Books Online at Best Prices In India Must Read: 16 September in Indian history Latest business news India today 16 September 2022 – business news headlines today Billionaire Venture Incubation partnered with DBS Bank for providing investments for start-ups in form of equity. Munoth Industries Ltd produces lithium-ion batteries for the segment of consumer electronics at its Tirupati unit. Must Read:16 September 2022 ke Mukhya Samachar Latest business news India today 16 September 2022 – business news India today  As per government sources, India might export 5 million tonnes of sugar in the first tranche from October. Dassault System, a software firm based in France, to expand its Hinjwadi premises by adding a third building on Earth along with a tripling of its headcount to 9000 by 2030. Must Read:News Headlines of India today 16 September 2022 Must Read:Today Current Affairs 16 September To keep yourself abreast with the latest business news India today 16 September 2022 – business news headlines today, business news India, India startup world news, latest business news, business news live, latest news, business news today India, do follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For watching our collection of videos, follow us on YouTube.

Fetterman Says Stroke Problems Have Not Slowed Down A ‘Normal’ Campaign – The New York Times https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/fetterman-says-stroke-problems-have-not-slowed-down-a-normal-campaign-the-new-york-times/ Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker

Car Strikes Worker At North Collins School | News, Sports, Jobs – Evening Observer https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/car-strikes-worker-at-north-collins-school-news-sports-jobs-evening-observer/ North Collins Central School is reporting one of its bus attendants was injured after being struck by an automobile. The district reported the incident occurred around 7:25 a.m. Thursday while outside bus No. 111 at a student pickup. No students were involved in the accident and law enforcement is investigating the incident. “Students from the bus were then dropped off at their respective schools and were met by our counseling staff,” the district reported. “Please be assured that we will do everything we can to ensure the safety and well-being of our children. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the district office at (716) 337-0101 ext. 1301 or your child’s principal.” Today’s breaking news and more in your inbox

When Metaverse Worlds Collide In Congress – The Hill https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/when-metaverse-worlds-collide-in-congress-the-hill/ AP Photo/Steve Helber Pastor D.J. Soto of VR Church delivers a sermon in his home on Sunday Jan. 23, 2022, in Fredericksburg, Va. Soto sings, preaches and performs digital baptisms in the metaverse to a growing congregation of avatars. Assuming art is what the German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer defined as a “a scene within a scene like in Hamlet,” then perhaps that’s what the metaverse is — a 3D spectacle within a spectacle of virtual reality worlds. Gaming industry leaders envision the metaverse as an online social network that relies on haptic feedback and computer components, such as a VR headset, to synchronize users’ real-time physical movements with a digital avatar. Meanwhile, the metaverse is already presenting novel opportunities and threats to users and Congress is just beginning to discuss its economic potential, security guardrails, and human rights implications. Focusing first on the financial possibilities, the metaverse’s expected market value may reach $758.6 billion by 2026. According to a 2022 business study by Ernst and Young LLP, gaming industry leaders anticipate that the metaverse will change how companies interact with customers and structure their business models to foster economic growth and innovation in new technologies. The company Meta, formerly Facebook, announced it would “bring the metaverse to life” in 2021 with Horizon Worlds, a virtual social platform.  Other companies, including Verizon, Chipotle, and the fashion brand Gucci, are exploring leveraging the metaverse to enhance brand recognition and capture the emerging market in Web 3.0 — a decentralized version of the internet in multiverse worlds that encompasses an array of new technologies such as nonfungible tokens (NFTs) and cryptocurrencies.  Despite these gains, however, any opportunity in the metaverse also carries privacy and data security risks: “As gamers input more and more personal information into the metaverse to best personalize their unique experiences, gaming companies will be responsible for protecting this user data from cyber criminals,” reports Ernst and Young. Their study also predicts that gaming companies will hire employees with advanced cybersecurity skills and partner with third-party cybersecurity firms to help mitigate cyber risks such as identity theft, intellectual property theft, and financial fraud. Even the health care industry may stand to benefit from using the metaverse to improve access to, and the quality of, patient care telemedicine visits and educational training simulations. Surprisingly, the Next Web opined that “the biggest challenge isn’t making the metaverse technically feasible. It’s making it comfortable.” For example, some metaverse users report experiencing motion sickness symptoms like nausea and dizziness. Dubbed “virtual reality sickness,” this sensation can occur when there is a sensory disconnect between visual environmental cues and physical body movement, according to the International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction. To remedy these adverse effects, app developers are experimenting with visual effects like minimizing peripheral vision during player movement, enabling players to jump from static position to static position, and snap turning — manipulating camera angles to reveal character points of view at either 30-, 45-, or 90-degree angles.  The metaverse also presents challenges for preventing online harassment and sexual assault. In 2021, a woman reported a disturbing incident using Oculus Quest’s VR platform when a stranger groped her avatar and refused to stop, replying, “It’s the metaverse, I’ll do what I want.” Another female reported a similar incident using Horizon Worlds, a multiplayer gaming platform, when her avatar was virtually groped by another avatar during beta phase testing. According to Meta spokeswoman, Kristina Milian, Horizon Worlds is enhancing safety features like “Safety Zone,” which casts a protective shield around avatars to prevent other characters from interacting with it, and also offers safety tutorials to users.  While such actions are helpful, researchers on online harassment are calling for stronger protective measures from tech industry leaders to deter and punish this type of toxic behavior. In an interview with MIT Technology Review, professor Katherine Cross of the University of Washington explained that “the nature of virtual-reality spaces is such that it is designed to trick the user into thinking they are physically in a certain space, that their every bodily action is occurring in a 3D environment … [which is] part of the reason why emotional reactions can be stronger in that space, and why VR triggers the same internal nervous system and psychological responses.” Apart from protecting adult users, some researchers are concerned that children may be targeted in the metaverse, and are therefore urging companies to enact heightened protections. As Congress begins evaluating the risks and opportunities with the metaverse, members can mine wisdom from antiquity by applying the following concept: Hierocles’ concentric circles of concern. First, Hierocles’ circles are drawn beginning with the immediate circle of self-interest; then a larger circle expanding outward to represent family; followed by a larger circle representing the local community; then the nation-state; and finally an outer circle representing the global community. This framework enables informed decision-making and planning across stakeholder groups with converging and diverging interests. Policymakers and industry leaders can apply Hierocles’ circles to better visualize the metaverse ecosystem. Doing so can enable leaders to design a regulatory framework that optimizes protecting and balancing community interests across this 3D spectacle. Zhanna L. Malekos Smith is a senior associate with the Strategic Technologies Program and the Aerospace Security Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, an assistant professor in the Department of Systems Engineering at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and an affiliate faculty member with the Modern War Institute. The views expressed here are hers alone and not those of CSIS, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.

Across The Field: Eleven Warriors Alumnus Kyle Rowland Breaks Down Toledo’s 2-0 Start And Whether The Rockets Can Hang With Ohio State – Eleven Warriors https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/across-the-field-eleven-warriors-alumnus-kyle-rowland-breaks-down-toledos-2-0-start-and-whether-the-rockets-can-hang-with-ohio-state-eleven-warriors/ Before each Ohio State game, Eleven Warriors catches up with a media member who covers the opposing team to get their perspective on the Buckeyes’ upcoming opponent. In this week’s Across The Field, we welcome back a familiar face: Former Eleven Warriors beat writer Kyle Rowland, who now covers Toledo for the Toledo Blade. While Rowland currently reports on the Rockets, he also has years of experience covering the Buckeyes, making him the perfect person to give us insight into the matchup of in-state opponents that will take place at Ohio Stadium on Saturday night. After a 2-0 start to the season, do the Rockets have a chance of upsetting the Buckeyes this weekend? Rowland shares his thoughts on how good he thinks the Rockets can be this season, whether their highly ranked defense can keep up with Ohio State’s offense and what it means to Toledo to play on a national broadcast network this weekend for the first time ever. Toledo has won its first two games by a combined score of 92-10, but those wins came against an FCS team (LIU) and one of the worst teams in the FBS (UMass). How good do you think the Rockets actually are? Rowland: I think it’s an eight-win team, and it could be a 10-win team. Next week’s trip to San Diego State is a major 50/50 game that will tip their record in one direction or the other. Defensively, the Rockets are really solid. The defensive line will be one of the best Ohio State faces all season. I think UT’s defensive line would be fourth- or fifth-best in the Big Ten. The entire defensive unit has been good since Vince Kehres took over as coordinator in 2020, and they continue to improve. Offensively, however, there have been some hiccups in recent seasons. Injuries have played into it, but the line play has been subpar. Dequan Finn looks like he’s the answer at quarterback. He’s a dual-threat guy who can really create a lot with his legs. He needs to be more accurate, but he’s one of the hardest workers on the team, which is a great thing for your starting quarterback. Toledo currently ranks in the top five nationally in both total and scoring defense. What’s been the key to its success defensively so far, and how capable do you think the Rockets are of matching up with C.J. Stroud and Ohio State’s offense? Rowland: The aforementioned defensive line is the biggest factor. Tackle Desjuan Johnson is a force, with 4.5 tackles for loss in two games. Edge rusher Jamal Hines is another impact guy on the line. Penn State transfer Judge Culpepper, a tackle, has fit in well. The linebackers also produce at a high level, starting with Ohio State transfer Dallas Gant, who’s been UT’s leading tackler in both games. Dyontae Johnson is the best leader on the team and has done nothing but make plays at Toledo. The secondary does a good job of not allowing chunk plays. Desjuan Johnson, Hines and Dyontae Johnson should all be drafted in April. Johnson and Hines could go in the first three rounds. It’s rare for a MAC program to have that much depth. Can they stop – or slow down – Ohio State? Yes, but I don’t think it can be sustained for 60 minutes. There is enough talent, and UT has enough bodies to make this a competitive game for a half or longer, but I have a hard time believing that the outcome will be in doubt during the fourth quarter. This will be the first time Toledo has ever played in a game televised by a national broadcast network. How big of a deal is that for Toledo and its fans? Rowland: It’s a huge deal for the football program, the university and their brand. If Toledo can hang in there and not get completely blown out, it’s something that can help recruiting. Maybe they’ll try to wear cool uniforms to attract attention. You would think they’ll have some gadget plays on offense that could get people talking. The university will have a commercial during the broadcast that they’ve promoted. UT really tries to use athletics to draw interest from prospective students. Which Toledo players are most capable of doing some damage against the Buckeyes? Rowland: I don’t think Finn, wide receivers Jerjuan Newton and DeMeer Blankumsee, and running backs Willie Shaw, Jacquez Stuart and Peny Boone are going to have a field day. But each of those guys are capable of making some big plays. Defensively, I do think UT can get after Stroud and maybe slow down the run game. Ohio State is favored to win this game by more than four touchdowns. Do you think that spread is where it should be, or do the Rockets deserve more credit from the oddsmakers? And how do you see the game playing out? Rowland: I thought it would be around 28, so it’s a little higher than expected, but I don’t view it as disrespectful to Toledo. Ohio State is just really good. The one thing Toledo has in its favor is that it almost always rises to the occasion in these games. Since 2000, the Rockets have beaten Michigan, Penn State, Arkansas, Pitt and Iowa State. And they should have won at Ohio State in 2011 and at Notre Dame last season. I can see them putting a scare into Ohio State for a half. But the Buckeyes are the best team in the country, in my opinion. The amount of firepower they possess on offense simply cannot be contained by a MAC school. I’m going to say OSU wins 49-21.

Missouri S&T – News And Events – Carbon-Capture Research Wins $1.7 Million Grant – Missouri S&T News And Research https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/missouri-st-news-and-events-carbon-capture-research-wins-1-7-million-grant-missouri-st-news-and-research/ Researchers at Missouri S&T will develop a system to capture carbon dioxide and use it for blended cement, ultimately contributing to the decarbonization of the cement industry. The National Science Foundation awarded a $1.7 million grant for the project. “Our goal is to deliver an innovative, integrated and adaptable capture-and-conversion system while producing valuable cement supplements from waste CO2,” says Dr. Fateme Rezaei, The Linda and Bipin Doshi Associate Professor of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering at Missouri S&T. “Waste CO2 in industrial flues is considered a valuable resource for a variety of products, including chemicals and fuels.” Rezaei, an internationally known expert in carbon capture, is working with a team of S&T researchers, including Dr. Hongyan Ma, associate professor of civil, architectural and environmental engineering; Dr.Kwame Awuah-Offei, chair of mining and explosives engineering; and Dr. Joseph Smith, the Wayne and Gayle Laufer Chair of Energy and professor of chemical and biochemical engineering. The research team also includes Chengquing Qi, technical center director at Ash Grove Cement Company of Overland Park, Kansas, which is a corporate partner. Rezaei says the United States produces about 90 million metric tons of cement each year, emitting about the same amount of CO2. Portland cement dominates the market, and she says that if no sustainable alternatives cements are invented, the most promising strategy for decarbonizing the cement industry is to developed additives to make blended cement. Portland cement contains clinker, a material made by liquifying limestone and clay under intense heat in a kiln, mixing it with gypsum and grinding it into a fine powder to use as a binder. “The White House goal of cutting America’s carbon emissions in half by 2020 requires investment in carbon-intensive industrial sectors like cement manufacturing that are hard to decarbonize,” says Rezaei. “This strategy could replace clinker in commodity cement with carbon-efficient – or even carbon-negative – minerals.” The team will explore the fundamental chemistry needed to develop economically viable technology to convert the captured CO2 to blended cement. Rezaei says the research could be applied to other industries that emit CO2. It can also be used to extract CO2 directly from air. The NSF award begins Jan. 1. About Missouri University of Science and Technology Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) is a STEM-focused research university of approximately 7,000 students. Part of the four-campus University of Missouri System and located in Rolla, Missouri, Missouri S&T offers 101 degrees in 40 areas of study and is among the nation’s top 10 universities for return on investment, according to Business Insider. S&T also is home to the Kummer Institute, made possible by a $300 million gift from Fred and June Kummer. For more information about Missouri S&T, visit www.mst.edu.

CapStone Holdings Inc. And Gamers Outreach Bring Gaming To Children’s Hospitals In St. Louis – Investing News Network https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/capstone-holdings-inc-and-gamers-outreach-bring-gaming-to-childrens-hospitals-in-st-louis-investing-news-network/ Cloud9, Fnatic, NAVI, Ninjas in Pyjamas, NRG, SK Gaming, T1, and Team Liquid Enter the World of Blockchain Gaming Guild of Guardians (GOG), a mobile squad-based action RPG game published by Immutable Games Studio and developed by Stepico Games, today announces a multi-year partnership with eight of the world’s biggest and most prominent professional esports organizations. Together, the partners will build the future of web3 gaming and digital entertainment and open Guild of Guardians pre-registration to the largest esports communities around the world.

Ethereum Merge Brings ‘Sell-The-Fact’ Price Move In Crypto Markets – CoinDesk https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/ethereum-merge-brings-sell-the-fact-price-move-in-crypto-markets-coindesk/ Omkar Godbole was a senior reporter on CoinDesk’s Markets team. The price of ether (ETH) tumbled suddenly in cryptocurrency markets Thursday, ending a stretch of price stability that prevailed in the hours after the Ethereum blockchain completed its historic shift to a more energy-efficient “proof-of-stake” blockchain, known as the Merge. At press time, the second-largest cryptocurrency was down 9.1% to $1,489, its biggest daily decline since Aug. 26. By contrast, bitcoin (BTC), the largest cryptocurrency, was down only about 2% on the day. The CoinDesk Market Index was down about 4%. The sudden price dump looks like a “buy-the-rumor, sell-the-fact” response, said Riyad Carey, a research analyst at crypto data firm Kaiko. “There is still a lot of leverage in ETH markets, so volatility should be expected and will probably be welcomed by traders who watched the Merge go by without much of a move up or down,” Carey told CoinDesk in a written note. “We’ve also seen market depth decrease and spreads increase, so that will likely factor into larger price movements.” The ‘Ethereum Merge trade’ unwinds CoinDesk reported earlier on blockchain data showing that investors were sending ETH to crypto exchanges in droves – often taken as a sign that holders are getting ready to dump. The cumulative inflow of $1.2 billion was the largest in six months. By most accounts, the Ethereum blockchain appears to have dodged major technological snafus that might have led to a much deeper price crash. “Many believe that the Merge might make Ethereum faster or cheaper,” Will Harborne, founder and CEO of the rhino.fi protocol, told CoinDesk. “This is not the case. For end users or developers, there should be no noticeable difference between Ethereum before and after the Merge.” CoinDesk Special Coverage: The Ethereum Merge Data from crypto futures markets shows that many investors appear to have closed out hedged positions in the hours after the Merge went through – a sign that they are wrapping up trades they had made during the previous month or past few weeks to bet on possible outcomes of the event – including the possibility of a revolt by crypto miners who want to keep working on a “proof-of-work” system similar to Bitcoin’s, which Ethereum used until Wednesday. Some investors were jockeying to maximize their rewards from a new “airdropped token” from whatever proof-of-work change continues on, referred to colloquially as ETHPOW. “I think that you wouldn’t have to throw many rocks to find a fund that has a healthy nine-figure position on the merge, long spot short derivatives or something like that,” said Abraham Chaibi, co-founder of Dexterity Capital. “They’re going to unwind, that’s definitely going to happen.” Meanwhile, the price of Ethereum Classic’s ETC token – another proof-of-work blockchain that some miners see as a viable alternative – was down 2% to $36.34. In the crypto options market, traders were selling out of contracts designed to profit from high volatility. Ironically, that volatility is arriving now. “ETH peaked at $2,000 one month ago and has seen a sharp drop today once the Merge was deemed successful. The market had priced in a successful Merge, and so far, this seems to have come to fruition,” Marc Arjoon, a research associate at CoinShares, said. “The level of asymmetric information around the Merge creates several pockets of narratives, so I expect a lot of volatility. Investors should definitely be cautious, as always, and expect volatility in price and narrative,” he added. In the two-week run-up to the Merge, the price of ether was up 4%, but remains down 16% on the month, according to market data. Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin had been quoted on the “Bankless” podcast as saying the Merge was “not going to be priced in pretty much until after it happens.” According to EtherNodes, 88% of ether nodes were Merge-ready and synced in the moments leading up to the event. In total, 12%, or 305, nodes appeared to be recalcitrant, with the transition with the majority from the Geth network. ‘Volatility for at least the next 24 hours’ “Although it (the Merge) happened without any technical hitches, there are also some other undercurrents, such as the new EthereumPoW (ETHW) network, a new form off of the old Ethereuem that will retain mining,” Bitbull Capital CEO Joe DiPasquale told CoinDesk in an email. “We expect this volatility for at least the next 24 hours.” Investors were quick to point out that crypto markets remain under the shadow of the crash earlier this year, and bitcoin in particular, which often dictates the overall industry’s price direction, is under pressure from monetary-policy tightening at the Federal Reserve. In the weeks before the Merge, bitcoin and ether appeared to be traveling on separate trajectories. It’s possible that ether might now recouple with it’s larger rival’s price action. “If this happened last year, we’d be at $8,000 already,” March Zheng, a Shanghai-based partner at Byzantine Capital, said to CoinDesk via WeChat. Oliver Knight contributed to this story. Sign up for Valid Points, our weekly newsletter breaking down Ethereum’s evolution and its impact on crypto markets. By signing up, you will receive emails about CoinDesk product updates, events and marketing and you agree to our terms of services and privacy policy. DISCLOSURE Please note that our privacy policy, terms of use, cookies, and do not sell my personal information has been updated . The leader in news and information on cryptocurrency, digital assets and the future of money, CoinDesk is a media outlet that strives for the highest journalistic standards and abides by a strict set of editorial policies. CoinDesk is an independent operating subsidiary of Digital Currency Group, which invests in cryptocurrencies and blockchain startups. As part of their compensation, certain CoinDesk employees, including editorial employees, may receive exposure to DCG equity in the form of stock appreciation rights, which vest over a multi-year period. CoinDesk journalists are not allowed to purchase stock outright in DCG . Omkar Godbole was a senior reporter on CoinDesk’s Markets team. Omkar Godbole was a senior reporter on CoinDesk’s Markets team.

Apple Overtakes Tesla As Most-Shorted In U.S. Market – The Wall Street Journal https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/apple-overtakes-tesla-as-most-shorted-in-u-s-market-the-wall-street-journal/ About this page Stock Market Today: Stocks, Energy Prices Fall; Ethereum ‘Merge’ Lands Without Hitch Last Updated: Sep 15, 2022 at 2:17 pm ET Follow The Wall Street Journal’s full markets coverage.

Tech Tracker: Picnic Announces More Plans To Automate Kitchens – Nation’s Restaurant News https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/tech-tracker-picnic-announces-more-plans-to-automate-kitchens-nations-restaurant-news/ Automation technology is king these days, from flashy robots to Starbucks’ recent announcement that they would be investing in more automation to help cut down drink-making time. Not only can automation help with the ongoing labor crisis, but human-free tech can also improve speed and convenience: two consumer needs that have become more important in the post-pandemic world. This month, the robot tech news keeps rolling in as pizza robot-maker Picnic, announced multiple new partnerships, including one with Domino’s International and one with Minnow Technologies to introduce an automated pickup pod. In other news this month, DoorDash is adding a new merchant suite to help boost small businesses and Lunchbox is introducing a new integration network that helps solve the age-old problem, “why won’t these tech vendors play nicely together?” Tech Tracker rounds up what’s happening in the technology sector of the restaurant industry, including news from restaurants, vendors, digital platforms, and third-party delivery companies. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know and why: Picnic picks up more partnerships with Minnow Technologies, Domino’s, and more Robot technology company Picnic has been busy this month. The pizza automation company announced a partnership with Seattle-based Minnow Technologies, which developed a self-service pickup pod (aka smart food lockers) for foodservice operators. Both companies envision the partnership working especially well for end-to-end automation in commercial kitchens, large franchises, sports stadiums and universities. A customer will be able to place a mobile order, which is then picked up and created by Picnic’s pizza-making technology and placed inside a heated pickup pod for the customer to retrieve at their convenience. But that’s not all: Picnic also announced a partnership with Seattle-based Moto — a pan-style pizzeria known for its unique pizza concepts like clam chowder and chop cheese — to deploy the Picnic pizza station Otis inside the burgeoning pizzeria. “Moto was founded on the notion that our food should be nutritious and sourced near us to deliver the highest quality meal,” Lee Kindell, Founder of Moto said in a statement. “With more and more people desperate to get their hands on [our pizzas], we’re looking forward to Picnic helping us produce a higher volume of the peculiar pizza Seattle desires, without any sacrifice to taste.” Perhaps one of the most intriguing partnerships Picnic announced is with Domino’s International, where the company will be testing the kitchen of the future at a Domino’s store in Berlin, Germany. While this is just a test demonstration, the Picnic partnership with international franchisee, Domino’s Pizza Enterprises Ltd., Is a multi-year partnership that could lead to more automation solutions for the company in the future. DoorDash launches a new merchant suite to boost indie restaurant performance Following in the trend of third-party delivery companies expanding beyond their original capabilities, DoorDash has launched a new merchant suite meant to help boost performance of neighborhood restaurants. This reorganization of DoorDash’s current merchant capabilities lets operators easily see the solutions available to them in one place based on needs like “grow online” “attract new customers,” or “increase order volume.” Customers will also have access to customer data, like a heat map of locations and zip codes of where their biggest customers are located. Limited access to customer data has long-been a criticism of third-party delivery companies and they are slowly trying to change their reputation for being possessive of merchant data. DoorDash also is launching a learning center where operators can learn skills and methods for how to increase their online orders. “Our goal is to give restaurants more opportunities to grow, be more profitable, and operate efficiently in today’s online convenience economy,” Tom Picket, chief revenue officer at DoorDash said in a statement.  “We’re only successful when our partners are successful — we hope this new framework gives them the guidance they need to grow.” Lunchbox introduces a new integration network As the number of tech vendors continue to multiply, it can become more and more challenging to figure out how to get them to play nicely with one another. Lunchbox’s latest capability — Lunchbox Open — claims to take vendor integration to the next level with a singular platform that integrates features from many of the major vendor companies including Toast, all major DSPs, Square, Facebook, Google Ads, Brink, and LevelUp. The integrative technology also removes block on entry from legacy providers like Olo. “Our mission is to help restaurants in every avenue and the best way to do that is by giving them access to pick and choose the integrations that make sense for them and their restaurant,” Lunchbox cofounder Hadi Rashid said in a statement. “We’re also opening up the race for integration partners.” Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant enters the metaverse The metaverse isn’t just for hot membership clubs or fast-food integrations anymore. Chicago-based Scott Harris Hospitality is launching an NFT membership program at Michelin bib Gourmand-recommended restaurant Joe’s Imports. The digital NFT artwork will pay homage to the eponymous, late Joe Fiely, or “Smiley Joe Fiely” and will give partial proceeds of the NFT purchases back to the community. Like many of the NFTs we’re seeing lately, the Joe’s Imports membership program will be a membership program, offering three levels of participation, ranging from $100  to $1,750 per year. Membership will include access to VIP events, discounts on meals and wine, free happy hours, exclusive events, and a private locker inside the Joe’s Imports wine cellar. The latest batch of tech vendor funding In the world of technology startup funding, virtual workforce company, Bite Ninja continues to be popular with another round of funding: this $11.3 million bridge funding round brings the company’s total raised to date to $15.4 million. The funding will be used to help expand the company’s technology capabilities, and key investors this time around included Manta Ray Ventures, Owl Ventures, Agfunder, Pioneer Fund and TRAC Unicorn fund.   Byte Kitchen, a restaurant technology company that helps scale restaurants through virtual food halls, just closed a $6 million round of funding. This fundraising round was led by Crosslink Capital, Emergent Ventures and Kevin Mahaffey, and will be used to expand locations, invest in the technology, and grow the team. ConverseNow — a technology company known for creating voice-based AI ordering assistants — received a $10 million investment in partnership with Danny Meyer-founded private equity firm, Enlightened Hospitality Investments. Combined with their $15M Series A funding, which closed last year in partnership with Craft Ventures, that brings ConverseNow’s total funding to $28.8M. The company currently operates its technology in 1,200 restaurants across the country, including Domino’s Pizza, Fazoli’s and Blake’s Lotaburger.

Opinion | China Is Coming For American Video Games – The Washington Post https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/opinion-china-is-coming-for-american-video-games-the-washington-post/ Fans of video games should pay heed to the fate of big Hollywood studios — which first ceded creative control to Chinese censors in pursuit of box-office gold and then found themselves floundering when China largely closed its borders to Hollywood products — as China’s government-allied businesses acquire a larger stake in the global gaming industry. It makes sense that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and its business affiliates would set their sights on video games. The overall size of the gaming market dwarfs that of the global box office. The largest player in this space is Tencent, “the world’s biggest game company.” The company’s first big purchase was Riot — best known at the time for “League of Legends” — and it has expanded steadily ever since. But as the Ringer noted last month, Tencent has been on an acquisition spree in recent years, gobbling up companies. “In 2019, it invested in 10 game companies; in 2020, 32; and then, in 2021, the number exploded to 101,” Lewis Gordon reported. As a result of these purchases, the company generates more than a quarter of its revenue from overseas. Consolidation is not unique to the video game industry, of course, as anyone who watched Disney’s absorption of 21st Century Fox or Amazon’s purchase of MGM will happily tell you. But there is a qualitative difference between a Swedish firm such as Embracer Group amassing a video game empire and a company under the thumb of the CCP doing the same. Tencent is by no means a household name in the United States. Still, some Americans might recognize Tencent’s logo as one of the many labels that show up in front of movies. Titles familiar to Americans include the Milla Jovovich-starring “Monster Hunter,” the Arnold Schwarzenegger-starring “Terminator: Dark Fate” and the John Cena-starring “Bumblebee.” However, if Americans have heard of Tencent, it’s likely because of the massive controversy sparked by the company’s effort to censor American icon Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise). Tencent was a co-financier of “Top Gun: Maverick,” the legacy sequel that has earned more than $700 million at the domestic box office and more than $1.4 billion worldwide. But that windfall was put at risk by Tencent’s involvement: When the trailer premiered, red-blooded American audience members howled with outrage that Mav’s iconic bomber jacket had been stripped of patches demonstrating America’s alliances with Taiwan and Japan. Following the hue and cry, the patches were replaced. Somewhere along the way, Tencent bailed from the partnership. This likely cost the company tens of millions in revenue, but it also allowed Tencent and its executives to avoid hassles from a Chinese government working to reassert control over cultural figures and companies that have achieved great prominence. It was a clarifying incident for American audiences and executives alike, the moment when the frog realized the water crossed over from comfortably warm to boiling. Creeping censorship had left not only obvious topics, such as Tibet, off-limits, but also less obvious topics, such as time travel and ghost stories. The whole American studio system had reoriented itself around chasing Chinese lucre, at great creative cost. The Chinese are trying to interfere with the artistry of video games in a similar way, as Oliver Holmes noted in the Guardian last year. “In 2011, the designer at Riot learned of an unwritten rule that no video game can show characters emerging from the ground, as if rising from the dead,” Holmes reported. Game developers couldn’t show bones or skulls. Cults were banned as well. Blood could be black but not a realistic red. China wants games to be viewed not as an art form to be excelled at but a product to be homogenized; hence the nation’s efforts to bring video games under the sway of the International Organization for Standardization. While the application pertained only to technical specifications, it made clear how China sees gaming as a whole — and other players in the market understood the danger of letting China have its way here. The Swedish Games Industry, a trade group, pushed back hard against this effort; as spokesperson Per Stromback told Foreign Policy: “Video games are art. Regulating them in the same manner as lightbulbs would curtail the creators’ freedom.” Creative concerns coexist alongside a variety of other worries, from fears that China is propagandizing Western youths via history games and other educational endeavors to concerns that the anti-cheat software used by Riot Games might give Chinese authorities undue access to computers around the world, allowing them to siphon off data. Unlike the threat to artistic freedom, the reality of which is obvious to any observer of the film industry, some of those fears might be overblown. However, I’m sympathetic to them for the same reason I have no interest in letting TikTok anywhere near my phone: The Chinese government’s commitment to privacy is as nonexistent as its commitment to artistic freedom. Better safe than sorry.

FAU Poll Shows Inflation Led Floridians To More Summer Staycations – Florida Politics https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/fau-poll-shows-inflation-led-floridians-to-more-summer-staycations-florida-politics/ But a majority of Floridians chose not to travel at all. A new poll is showing fears about inflation have radically impacted Floridians’ summer travel. But it’s making for more staycations — and a boost to the state economy. The Florida Atlantic University Business and Economics Polling Initiative released survey results indicating that 48% of Floridians rate the national economy as poor or very poor. That compares to only 26% who feel good or very good about it. Moreover, more than 96% remain to some degree concerned about inflation, with almost 61% saying they are “very concerned.” Also, more than 91% say inflation has (at least somewhat) impacted their home finances, with more than 56% saying it “greatly impacted” them. But the resulting anxiety may have provided a boon for Florida tourism. Of the Floridians traveling this summer, some 63% opted to do so within the state. “The results of this survey closely resemble those from our poll in May,” said Monica Escaleras, director of FAU BEPI in the College of Business. “We see that due to inflation, Floridians who traveled for vacation this summer adjusted their plans. The good news is that those who traveled stayed close to home, which certainly helped Florida’s economy.” The FAU poll includes 431 responses gathered from Aug. 31 to Sept. 5, collected by landline and online. Results were weighted by ethnicity, age, education and gender. Pollsters report a margin of error of 4.72%. Economic concerns appear to be the driver of several decisions for Florida-based travelers. About 62% said high gas prices specifically led them to re-evaluate travel plans and choose to go to places closer to home. About 48% of those polled said they shortened the amount of time they planned to spend on vacation. There were more than 28% who felt the rate of inflation made a Florida vacation too expensive. But upward of 49% believe you can have an in-state vacation for a “reasonable price.” Of note, most Floridians — almost 68% — did not travel at all this summer. Of those, more than 34% said the prohibitive cost of travel played a role in the decision, and another 37% listed financial difficulties. The high cost — specifically cruise and airline tickets — impacted many consumers; about 71% said they changed cruise lines, airlines or hotels based on rising prices. “Pricing right to entice travelers with inflation in mind may help your business stand out from the competition,” said Peter Ricci, director of the FAU Hospitality and Tourism Management Program. “While discounting is not the answer to business profitability, value-building, whenever possible, will gain long-term fans for your hotel, restaurant or airline.” Post Views: 0

Kula Trash Pickups Rescheduled To Today | News, Sports, Jobs – Maui News https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/kula-trash-pickups-rescheduled-to-today-news-sports-jobs-maui-news/ Trash pickups in Kula have been rescheduled to today due to a personnel shortage, the county Department of Environmental Management announced. Trash was not collected Wednesday for residents living on Lauie Drive, Hapapa Road, Pueo Drive, Waipoli Road, Aolewa Place, Keanuhea Place and Street, Lower Kula Road, Kepa Road, Naele Road, Puanani Place, Pulehu Nui Road, and all surrounding streets and roads. Today’s breaking news and more in your inbox A 74-year-old Kahului man died after his car crashed into a tree on Wednesday afternoon, according to police. … A 30-year-old Kihei man who was reported missing by his family on Saturday was located and found to be in good … Jonathan Scheuer and Bianca Isaki, authors of “Water and Power in West Maui,” will discuss their book during a … A rummage and plant sale will be held from 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the Maui Okinawa Cultural Center at 688 Nukuwai … Hours of operation at the Molokai Landfill have been changed to 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. today due to a personnel … Trash pickups in Kula have been rescheduled to today due to a personnel shortage, the county Department of …

With Partnership, Averett University Enters Metaverse | Education | Godanriver.com – GoDanRiver.com https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/with-partnership-averett-university-enters-metaverse-education-godanriver-com-godanriver-com/ Averett University announced Thursday a partnership it hopes will drive a digital ecosystem on a course to become carbon neutral. The Danville-based school is teaming up with Dalrada Financial Corporation for what it calls efforts to “drive significant reduction in carbon emissions and deliver savings on energy costs, while taking the university into the metaverse.” Dalrada Energy Services — a division of Dalrada Corp — will help with Averett’s goal of designing a next-generation campus experience, according to a news release. The company’s solutions address things like climate change and “technology solutions for a new era of human behavior and interaction.”  The metaverse — a term minted by the science fiction writer Neal Stephenson in his 1992 novel “Snow Crash” — describes “a proposed immersive version of the internet accessed via virtual-reality headsets, augmented reality glasses, phone apps or other devices,” according to The Associated Press. Essentially metaverse is viewed as the internet being brought to life, or a least rendered in 3D, the AP reports. “Partnering with Dalrada allows us to set the sustainability bar for colleges across the country and ensures that we are fostering an educational environment designed to propel our students into the digital future,” Averett President Tiffany M. Franks said in a statement. “Like never before, we will be providing students with the tools they need to be successful after graduation and preparing them for the jobs of the future that we can’t even yet imagine.” Along with cutting-edge technology, plans include “student ownership of digital assets and personalized artificial intelligence, as well as learning and understanding the impacts of digital currency,” the university reported in a release. Carbon neutral — reaching a net-zero of carbon dioxide emissions — is a focus of the partnership. For example, by using the company’s LikidoONE heat pumps and other resources, Averett expects to save up to 20% in energy costs while reducing its carbon footprint, the news release stated. Another central area is Web 3.0, a loosely defined way of describing the next phase of the internet. Averett says it’s the first American institute of higher learning to create personalized Web 3.0 capabilities while committing to sustainable energy outcomes.  “Working with a community leader like Averett University to help them achieve educational goals is exciting and we look forward to developing a program that takes a head-on approach to tackling global challenges while driving real change that fosters sustainability,” said Brian Bonar, chairman and CEO of Dalrada Financial Corporation. Averett officials say timelines for implementation on the campus are underway and they will elist other “partners within the Dalrada ecosystem” as the project begins. Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox.

Singapore Tech Show Attendees Go Crazy After $6 Mystery Boxes, Police Probes Online Retailer – Tech Times https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/singapore-tech-show-attendees-go-crazy-after-6-mystery-boxes-police-probes-online-retailer-tech-times/ John Lopez, Tech Times 15 September 2022, 11:09 am Attendees of a Suntech Singapore Tech Show go frenzy for piles of mystery packs priced at $6 each. Hundreds of bargain hunters rush to get their hands on parcels containing mystery items in a few snapshots first shared by The Strait Times. This particular incident caught the attention of Singaporean authorities, citing several violations. COMEX 2022 Attracts Bargain Hunters in Singapore After being trapped at home for the duration of the pandemic, bargain hunters are now on a mission to seize the next opportunity for the best tech deals, and cool product finds. This tech show, which took place on Sept. 1 to 4, was one of the first face-to-face conventions held in Singapore following the COVID outbreak. Read Also: Singapore Banks’ Kill Switch Now Required-Helping Account Owners Avoid Possible Online Scams COMEX 2022 is a technology show with the best deals on gadgets, laptops, TVs, desktops, and more. It includes activities and booths showcasing the best tech deals available today. Some of the event’s participating brands include Acer, Alienware, Apple, Asus ROG, Huawei, and more tech companies. Constellar organized the consumer technology event. One of the event’s most popular booths belongs to a retailer who sells unclaimed mystery packs containing tech goodies for as little as SG $6. People who enjoy surprises can order mystery boxes online from various sellers. A mystery box is a surprise package that is frequently distributed with a particular theme or brand. The items in the box stand for a specific amount. For instance, you can purchase a mystery box online for as low as $5 and receive $100 worth of goods. This Singaporean retailer follows the mystery box trend by including tech products. The booth also offers an interesting deal: buy 10 parcels and get two mystery boxes for free. The parcels are unclaimed, according to a report from MS News, which cited booth operator The Auction House, also previously managed The Heist Singapore. Additionally, package contents include a variety of goodies for bargain hunters, including toys, power banks, and earbuds. Tech Show Bargain Violates SG Law, Says Police In Singapore, new laws on social gambling was implemented on Aug. 1. The mystery boxes fall under one of the provisions of the new gambling laws, according to a report by The Strait Times. Authorities said with the new policy, the Singaporean government anticipates technological and gambling trends and respond to new gambling products and services. The new laws also require private establishments to obtain licenses before offering gambling services like betting and lotteries. Mystery parcels, which are said to be a form of a public lottery, are prohibited in Singapore. Last Aug. 13, police confirmed to The Strait Times that a report had been filed and that a probe is currently underway to determine if The Auction House is guilty of violating gambling laws. Although the contents of a mystery box are unknown, there is a chance that buyers will receive products worth more than the selling price. This is what authorities are emphasizing. Related Article: Chinese Man Sentenced to Four Weeks in Jail in Singapore for Using His Co-worker’s TraceTogether Token ⓒ 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Tags:

CoinShares’ Meltem Demirors Tires Of Crypto In-Fighting, Sees Evolutionary Crypto Development Ahead – Cryptonews https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/coinshares-meltem-demirors-tires-of-crypto-in-fighting-sees-evolutionary-crypto-development-ahead-cryptonews/ Image Credit: CoinShares Meltem Demirors, the chief strategy officer at publicly traded digital asset manager CoinShares, has called for the cryptocurrency industry to put its house in order and embrace regulations.  Speaking on the Chain Reaction podcast, she opined that the infighting by crypto market participants, especially between people who self-identify as “Bitcoin maximalists” and others that are staunch supporters of other blockchains, needs to come to an end.  This polarization is not doing the industry any favors, she notes. This is because the “ideological fervor behind crypto” has been evolving and will continue to evolve as the asset class gains more popularity. While many market participants turned to Bitcoin due to skepticism in government and a desire to take back control of their money at the beginning, crypto has a lot more nuanced use cases at present.  “It involves policy, it involves institutions and involves education and a lot of other complex cultural and societal factors. I think we still haven’t hit that major inflection point. And I think it will probably take some time to materialize,” Demirors said.  Based on this, the former number two at Digital Currency Group (DCG), admonished that for Bitcoin and crypto to evolve to where the industry needs to collaborate with institutions, as well as regulators.  “We’ve recognized that in order for Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies to achieve adoption, we do need to collaborate with institutions. I also think there’s growing recognition that the regulatory environment necessitates certain types of behavior,” she added. Demirors is not the only crypto market bigwig to hold this stance. The founders of Binance and FTX, Changpeng Zhao (CZ) and Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF), have respectively stated that cooperation with regulators is necessary if crypto and blockchain technology adoption is to go mainstream.  Crypto attracts regulatory interest While the crypto industry has been becoming more open to regulations, regulators have also been showing more interest in the asset class. Globally, financial watchdogs and market regulators have been working on regulations to contain the excesses of the crypto market and industry.  In Europe, the E.U. has reached final agreements on its Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) laws which will regulate the industry across 27 countries as reported by Bloomberg. These rules, intended to come into effect in 2024, will provide regulatory clarity for token issuers, VASPs, and stablecoins.   In the U.S., while comprehensive crypto regulations are making their way through Congress, the SEC has called for market participants to embrace existing security laws. In remarks made recently, SEC chair Gary Gensler reiterated that crypto firms need to come in and register their operations with the SEC.

US Mortgage Rates Hit 6% For First Time Since 2008 Housing Crisis – Al Jazeera English https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/us-mortgage-rates-hit-6-for-first-time-since-2008-housing-crisis-al-jazeera-english/ The 30-year mortgage rate rose to 6.02 percent from 5.89 percent last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac reports. Published On 15 Sep 202215 Sep 2022 Average long-term United States mortgage rates climbed above 6 percent this week for the first time since the housing crash of 2008, threatening to sideline even more homebuyers from a rapidly cooling housing market. Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac reported on Thursday that the 30-year rate rose to 6.02 percent from 5.89 percent last week. The long-term average rate has more than doubled since a year ago and is the highest it has been since November 2008, just after the housing market collapse triggered the Great Recession. One year ago, the rate stood at 2.86 percent. Rising interest rates — in part a result of the Federal Reserve’s aggressive push to tamp down inflation — have cooled off a housing market that has been hot for years. Many potential home buyers are being pushed out of the market as the higher rates have added hundreds of dollars to monthly mortgage payments. Sales of existing homes in the US have fallen for six straight months, according to the National Association of Realtors. The average rate on 15-year, fixed-rate mortgages, popular among those looking to refinance their homes, rose to 5.21 percent from 5.16 percent last week. Last year at this time, the rate was 2.19 percent. A ‘sold’ sign is seen outside of a recently purchased home [File: Sarah Silbiger/Reuters] The US Federal Reserve has raised its benchmark short-term interest rate four times this year, and Chairman Jerome Powell has said that the central bank will likely need to keep interest rates high enough to slow the economy “for some time” in order to tame the worst inflation in 40 years. A worse-than-expected key inflation reading on Tuesday cemented expectations the Fed will be forced to deliver a third straight 75-basis point interest rate rise at its policy meeting next week, with investors now predicting the central bank will have to increase rates faster and further than previously thought. The effect of higher interest rates has been felt across the housing sector. New home sales plunged to a six-and-a-half-year low in July while home resales and single-family housing starts are at two-year lows. But house prices remain elevated amid a critical shortage of affordable homes, making a housing market collapse unlikely. The government reported that the US economy shrank at a 0.6-percent annual rate from April through June, a second straight quarter of economic contraction, which meets one informal sign of a recession. Most economists, though, have said they doubt that the economy is in or on the verge of a recession, given that the US job market remains robust. Applications for jobless aid fell again last week and remain at their lowest level since May, despite the Fed’s moves to tame inflation, which has a tendency to cool the job market, as well.

Purdue Foundry Invests In Senteon, A Cybersecurity Startup – Purdue University https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/purdue-foundry-invests-in-senteon-a-cybersecurity-startup-purdue-university/ WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Senteon, a cybersecurity startup founded by Purdue University alumni, completed a round of seed funding that includes an investment from the Purdue Startup Fund. The fund is managed by the Purdue Foundry. Other investors are Valor Ventures, Lytical Ventures and SaaS Venture Capital. Henry Zhang, co-founder of Senteon, said the company will use the funding to expand its cybersecurity technology to a full-scale, marketable solution. Senteon’s solution centers on end-point hardening. The process secures servers and workstations by enabling various security configurations and removing unused features to reduce the operating system’s attack surface. “This round of funding also will assist us in executing our initial go-to-market strategy,” Zhang said. Riley Gibb, director of business development at Purdue Foundry, said Senteon fits well into the Foundry’s portfolio of invested companies. “The Foundry invests in Purdue-connected companies in several industrial sectors, including cybersecurity,” Gibb said. “These high-tech companies are either led by Purdue alumni, commercialize Purdue intellectual property or sometimes both.” Senteon previously reported that Sean Higgins, co-founder and chief technology officer at Herjavec Group, joined the company as an adviser. He also is director of security and hosting services at AT&T Canada. About Senteon Senteon is a cybersecurity tool to help reduce your organization’s attack surface and increase security compliance through intelligent, preventive system hardening that bridges the gap between audit and remediation. We make hardening systems understandable and streamlined for small to midsize businesses and MSPs. About Purdue Foundry The Purdue Foundry is an entrepreneurship and commercialization hub whose professionals help Purdue innovators create startups. The Purdue Foundry is managed by the Purdue Research Foundation, which received the 2019 Innovation and Economic Prosperity Universities Award for Place from the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. Contact the Purdue Foundry at foundry@prf.org. Writer: Steve Martin, sgmartin@prf.org Sources: Riley Gibb, rtgibb@prf.org Henry Zhang, hzhang@senteon.com

Redmi Gaming Monitor G24: New Gaming Monitor Launches In Xiaomi’s Home Market With A 165 Hz Refresh Rate – Notebookcheck.net https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/redmi-gaming-monitor-g24-new-gaming-monitor-launches-in-xiaomis-home-market-with-a-165-hz-refresh-rate-notebookcheck-net/ Reviews, News, CPU, GPU, Articles, Columns, Other Not Set Default Review Flagship Review Short Review Review Update Ultra Short Review Live Default Review Live Flagship Review First Impression Review Other Review Smartwatch / eBike / Camera Comp. Accessory Review Game Benchmark Review 3D Printer Review Analysis Default News Major Launch News (NDA) Sponsored News Special Topic News Advertorial Article Magazine Article List Article Column “or” search relation. 3D Printing, 5G, Accessory, AI, Alder Lake, AMD, Android, Apple, Arc, ARM, Audio, Benchmark, Biotech, Business, Camera, Cannon Lake, Cezanne (Zen 3), Charts, Chinese Tech, Chromebook, Console, Convertible / 2-in-1, Cryptocurrency, Cyberlaw, Deal, Desktop, DIY, E-Mobility, Education, Exclusive, Fail, Foldable, Gadget, Galaxy S, Gamecheck, Gaming, Geforce, Google Pixel, GPU, How To, Ice Lake, Intel, Intel Evo, Internet of Things (IoT), iOS, iPad, iPad Pro, iPhone, Jasper Lake, Lakefield, Laptop, Launch, Leaks / Rumors, Linux / Unix, List, Lucienne (Zen 2), MacBook, Mini PC, Monitor, MSI, OnePlus, Opinion, Phablet, Radeon, Raptor Lake, Renoir, Review Snippet, RISC-V, Rocket Lake, Ryzen (Zen), Science, Security, Single-Board Computer (SBC), Smart Home, Smartphone, Smartwatch, Software, Storage, Tablet, ThinkPad, Thunderbolt, Tiger Lake, Touchscreen, Ultrabook, Virtual Reality (VR) / Augmented Reality (AR), Wearable, Wi-Fi 7, Windows, Workstation, XPS, Zen 3 (Vermeer), Zen 4 Ticker

Competitors Enjoy Annual Running And Walking Event – Grantham Journal https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/competitors-enjoy-annual-running-and-walking-event-grantham-journal/ The annual Ponton Plod running and walking event took place as usual on Sunday. The main change for this year was a change of the longer route to 26.4 miles, about 65 per cent of which was new. The two other routes remained the same at 17.1 and 11.7 miles. This is the 14th year the event has been held and the fifth year that it has been run by Notfast Running Club from Newark. A Grantham Running Club quartet taking part in Sunday’s Ponton Plod. Photos: Toby Roberts The organisers had received 191 online entries up to last Thursday night, with a further 22 signing up on Sunday morning, bringing the total number of entries to 213. This was about 18 per cent up on 2021 when people were still hesitant about Covid, but there were no signs of hesitancy this year. The event continued with the ’start when you want’ system (as against the usual mass start) which was implemented last year due to Covid to avoid lots of people in close proximity. Competitors in Sunday’s annual Ponton Plod. (59267137) There were a lot more non-starters this year than the usual figure of about 10 per cent. This year it was 18 per cent, possibly due to do with respecting the loss of The Queen. Several entrants said they were pleased it was on and thought The Queen would have wanted such events to go ahead. Yet again the weather was kind to the Plod, with no rain and occasional sunny spells. The longer route in the past has gone south of Stoke Rochford as far as Buckmister, but this year a change saw all three distances taking a common route from Great Ponton through Stoke Rochford Park, then passing close to Buckminster Gliding Club and along the Viking Way. Competitors in Sunday’s annual Ponton Plod. (59267143) After seven miles, the 12-mile route went straight to Wyville whilst the 17- and the new 26-mile route dropped down to Denton and across to Harlaxton. The 26-mile then returned to Denton via Denton Reservoir and then on to the disused railway track to join the canal, looping up to Casthorpe before rejoining the canal to continue back to Harlaxton. From there, both 17- and 26- mile entrants shared a common route back up the hill to Hungerton and on to Wyville. The route for all three distances then went along the concessionary footpath towards Stoke Rochford Park and back to the finish at Great Ponton. Entrants as usual came from far afield, such as Suffolk, Norfolk, Worcestershire, Durham and Yorkshire, with a lot from the Nottingham and Derby areas. Competitors in Sunday’s annual Ponton Plod. (59267134) There was a good turnout as usual from Grantham Running Club and Newark Striders with around a dozen members each. The LDWA (Long Distance Walkers Association) also fielded an entry of about 30. The organisers had a couple who had travelled from County Waterford in Ireland but the furthest travelled was a couple from Palmerston North in New Zealand. As usual, food and drinks were served at the checkpoints positioned at about six-mile intervals and, as is customary, entrants tucked into homemade soups and a variety of pies at the finish, all of which were made or donated by Notfast Running Club members. Competitors in Sunday’s annual Ponton Plod. (59267140) Subhashis Basu, a regular entrant from Sheffield, said it was his 200th marathon. He completed the 26.4-mile course in 3hr 53min and still found time to play the piano at the Harlaxton Village Hall checkpoint whilst he had a drink – perhaps the reason he was beaten by Nicholas Genever to the fastest time by just one minute. The proceeds from the event, which are expected to be in the region of more than £2,000, will be donated to Besso Children’s Home in Hosur, India, and CASY (counselling for young people) based in Newark. The organisers’ thanks go to all those who helped on the day, which for many was a 12-hour non-stop shift, especially those serving the food in the kitchen. Full results can be found at thepontonplod.co.uk or notfastrunningclub.co.uk

Goldie Hawn, 76, Wows In Black Swimsuit During Sun-Drenched Beach Vacation With Kurt Russell – HELLO! https://dentoncountynewsonline.com/goldie-hawn-76-wows-in-black-swimsuit-during-sun-drenched-beach-vacation-with-kurt-russell-hello/ September 15, 2022 – 14:53 BST Jenni McKnight Goldie Hawn and partner Kurt Russell were enjoying a vacation in Greece and took to the beach for some fun in the sun Goldie Hawn displayed her incredible figure over the summer while soaking up the sun in Greece with her longtime partner Kurt Russell. MORE: Goldie Hawn’s grandson turns 15 – and he looks just like Kate Hudson’s son The 76-year-old looked sensational in a low-cut black swimsuit that showcased her trim physique, adding a necklace and some designer shades to shield her eyes from the blazing sun. Goldie wore her blonde hair in a low ponytail with a bright green scrunchie. WATCH: Goldie Hawn dances in the sea during Greek vacation Goldie and Kurt appeared to be enjoying the sun and even ventured out to sea on a boat, with Kurt happily playing the role of captain as seen in photos obtained by MailOnline. The couple have been together since Valentine’s Day 1983 and celebrated 39 years together in February. They share son Wyatt Russell, 35, and both have children from previous relationships. MORE: Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell’s son Wyatt gears up for major change MORE: Goldie Hawn supported by granddaughters as she shares touching news Goldie is also mom to Oliver and Kate Hudson, who she shares with ex-husband Bill Hudson, while Kurt shares Boston Russell with ex-wife Season Hubley. Goldie and Kurt are one of Hollywood’s favorite couples The celebrity couple are also doting grandparents to seven grandchildren, who keep them on their toes. Goldie previously told Australian Women’s Weekly: “A good family is the answer to happiness.” MORE: Oliver Hudson sparks envy among fans with surprising glimpse inside family home Goldie and Kurt are often quizzed about why they have decided against marriage, with the actress explaining the reason during an interview on Loose Women in 2015. They have been together since the 80s Talking to the panel on the ITV daytime show, Goldie explained: “I would have been long divorced if I’d been married. Marriage is an interesting psychological thing. If you need to feel bound to someone, then it’s important to be married. “If you have independence, if you have enough money and sense of independence and you like your independence, there’s something psychological about not being married because it gives you the freedom to make decisions one way or the other. “For me, I chose to stay. Kurt chose to stay, and we like the choice.” Read more HELLO! US stories here