KEEP FALL FESTIVITIES SAFE FOR PETS: TORONTO HUMANE SOCIETY SHARES SEASONAL ADVICE
Wed, Oct 07, 2026 06:00 EDT
TORONTO, ON - October 7, 2026 - As families across Toronto prepare for Thanksgiving and enjoy everything the fall season has to offer, Toronto Humane Society is reminding pet parents that some seasonal favourites can pose unexpected risks to their animals. From Thanksgiving meals and baked goods to busy gatherings and changing routines, fall brings new sights, smells and experiences into the home. While pets can be part of the celebrations, knowing which foods are safe to share - and which should stay out of reach - can help prevent an unexpected trip to the veterinarian. "Thanksgiving is a wonderful opportunity to spend time with family, friends and our pets, but many of the foods we enjoy during the holiday aren't safe for animals," said Dr. Karen Ward, Chief Veterinary Officer, Toronto Humane Society. "Keeping potentially harmful foods out of reach, offering pet-safe alternatives and giving animals a quiet place to retreat during gatherings are simple ways to make the holiday safer and more comfortable for everyone." Be Careful with Thanksgiving Leftovers Rich, fatty or heavily seasoned foods can cause digestive upset and, in some cases, more serious health problems. Cooked poultry bones can also splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Toronto Humane Society recommends keeping leftovers, food scraps, compost and garbage securely stored and out of reach. Pet parents should also be particularly cautious with common ingredients including: Chocolate Grapes and raisins Onions and garlic Foods or baked goods containing xylitol Raw yeast dough Macadamia nuts Fatty foods, gravies and heavily seasoned dishes Cooked bones If you believe your pet has consumed something potentially toxic or dangerous, contact a veterinarian immediately. Fall Foods Pets Can Enjoy Not every seasonal food is off limits. Plain, unseasoned foods such as pumpkin, sweet potato, carrots, green beans and apple can be offered to many pets in small amounts. Avoid added butter, sugar, salt, spices and other seasonings, and always remove apple seeds and cores. Pet parents can also make a simple fall-inspired treat for their dog at home: Pumpkin & Oat Dog Treats Ingredients: 1 cup plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) ½ cup xylitol-free, unsweetened peanut butter 2 cups oat flour 1-2 tablespoons water, as needed Directions: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine pumpkin and peanut butter, then gradually mix in oat flour until a firm dough forms. Add a small amount of water if needed. Roll the dough to approximately ¼-inch thick, cut into small pieces or shapes and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until firm. Allow treats to cool completely before serving. Treats should always be given in moderation and should not replace a pet's regular, nutritionally balanced diet. Help Pets Feel Comfortable During Gatherings Thanksgiving celebrations can also mean unfamiliar visitors, noise and frequent opening and closing of doors. While some animals enjoy the activity, others may find it overwhelming. Before guests arrive, consider creating a quiet space where your pet can retreat, with access to water, comfortable bedding and familiar toys. Let pets decide whether they want to interact with visitors rather than forcing introductions. With guests coming and going, pet parents should also make sure their animal has up-to-date identification. A collar with an ID tag and a registered microchip can improve the chances of being reunited if a pet accidentally gets outside. Keep Fall Décor Pet-Safe Seasonal decorations can introduce additional hazards. Keep candles, electrical cords and small decorations out of reach, and consider flameless candles where possible. Decorative items that can be chewed or swallowed should also be placed somewhere pets cannot access them. "Fall is a great time to enjoy new routines, seasonal activities and special meals, and our pets can absolutely be part of that," added Dr. Ward. "A little preparation can go a long way toward making sure those experiences are positive and safe for everyone." Help Keep More Bowls Full This Thanksgiving As families gather around the table this Thanksgiving, Toronto Humane Society is also asking the community to help keep more pet food bowls full. Every week, more than 300 visits are made to Toronto Humane Society's Pet Food Bank by pet families looking for support . So far this year, the program has distributed more than 11,000 pounds of pet food - enough for approximately 56,000 pet food meals . Right now, every gift can go twice as far. Until October 12, Paul Butler and Chris Black will match every donation, up to $10,000, in memory of their beloved cat, Fletcher. To donate or learn more, please visit TorontoHumaneSociety.com .
Packaging Reporting Deadline Warrants a Closer Look at Warehouse Handling
Wed, Oct 07, 2026 05:01 EDT
With the newest major packaging data reporting deadline on 1 October, businesses affected by the UK's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules are being reminded of the importance of having accurate information about the packaging they handle. According to Pallet Trucks UK, the deadline also provides an opportunity for businesses to look beyond the paperwork and consider what their packaging processes mean for day-to-day operations. Large producers must report packaging data for the first half of 2026 by 1 October. The date is also important for large producers registering for EPR for 2027: the rules require businesses to collect and report information about packaging placed on the market, with specific requirements varying according to the type of producer and packaging involved. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Pallet Trucks UK, said the process should prompt businesses to look more closely at how packaging moves through their operations. "There's a tendency to see packaging compliance as something that sits with an office team, but the information ultimately comes from what is happening across the business. "That means businesses need to understand what packaging is coming in, what is being used, what is leaving the site and what happens to materials along the way. For some operations, that can involve a surprising amount of physical movement. "Packaging may need to be separated, stored, moved to different areas or dealt with alongside finished goods. If those processes have grown gradually, the equipment being used to move everything may not have been reviewed at the same time." That is particularly relevant for businesses handling large quantities of packaged goods. Pallet trucks, stackers, lift tables and other handling equipment can all form part of the movement of materials around a site, from receiving and storage through to production, packing and dispatch. The October deadline therefore offers a useful prompt for businesses to look at the practical side of their packaging processes as well as their reporting obligations. Chesworth added, "Businesses should be using the review as a reason to ask whether the way materials are being moved still makes sense. If a business has changed its packaging volumes or processes, it should make sure the handling equipment has kept pace with those changes." For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
SGS highlights updated EU harmonized standards for Toy Safety Directive compliance
Wed, Oct 07, 2026 04:15 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 128.26, highlighting the EU's addition of three harmonized standards (HS) used to demonstrate compliance with the Toy Safety Directive (TSD), as well as the withdrawal of one existing standard. Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2026/2032 (the Decision) was published on September 14, 2026. It revises Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/740 on HS in support of the TSD. The updated list of HS supports the presumption of conformity with the TSD, adding three standards and withdrawing one existing standard. Effective from September 14, 2026, the Decision affects stakeholders across the toy supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries operating in the EU. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 128.26 includes a table outlining the affected standards and their effective dates. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to SafeGuardS 128.26 for more details. SGS toy and juvenile product services SGS offers a wide range of services to ensure that products comply with relevant standards for childcare articles and children's equipment. They provide consulting, training, product development, testing, audit and inspection services to ensure that products comply with strict regulations worldwide, demonstrating the safety and quality of juvenile products being brought to the market. After all, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's toy and juvenile product services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full EU Updates Harmonized Standards for Toy Safety Directive Compliance SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Wilfrid "Bill" Lemann Helps the Hungry, Homeless and the Hopeless with The Salvation Army
Wed, Oct 07, 2026 00:07 EDT
REDLANDS, CALIF.- Local attorney Wilfrid "Bill" Lemann , managing partner at Fullerton, Lemann, Schaefer & Dominick, LLP, is the Kickoff master of ceremonies for the annual start of the Bell Ringing season for The Salvation Army, marking the official launch of the 2026 holiday fundraising campaign. This year's theme is Transforming Lives . The event will take place on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 5:30 PM at the Bear Springs Event Center in Highland, California. "Last year's wonderful turnout showed the heart of our community. I hope even more people join us this year as we come together to transform lives and bring hope to neighbors in need," said Lemann. Tickets are available here. "This year, California Assemblymember James Ramos will serve as keynote speaker and deliver the keynote address at the kickoff event. He is a steadfast advocate for vulnerable populations and has championed legislation addressing housing insecurity, homelessness, and support for low-income families. His commitment to social justice and community welfare aligns perfectly with The Salvation Army's mission and values," Lemann said. Bill Lemann has served as the master of ceremonies for the Red Kettle Kickoff for most of the last 26 years. "His humor, relationships with community leaders and elected officials and his lifelong dedication to the San Bernardino community are legendary," said Brian Cronin the Red Kettle Kickoff Chair. "It is an honor for Bill to be our Master of Ceremonies and help The Salvation Army serve those in need." For neighbors facing hunger, homelessness, addiction or financial hardship, The Salvation Army offers help and hope. The annual Red Kettle campaign provides vital support, transforming generosity during the Christmas season into life-changing assistance throughout the year. Every coin placed in a Salvation Army red kettle becomes a lifeline for a neighbor in need-providing warm meals, a safe place to sleep, clothing, furniture and, when funds are available, help with housing and transportation. During the Christmas season, The Salvation Army also provides 500 local families with meals and toys to approximately 1,000 local children whose parents cannot afford them. On Christmas, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino hosts a Christmas Dinner that historically provides a delicious meal to approximately 200 people. Donations to the Red Kettles help make this possible. "The Salvation Army serves as one of the most trusted and effective providers of services to the homeless, the hungry, the hopeless, the addicted and people in need. Their doors are always open," said Lemann. Donations can be made online at https://sanbernardino.salvationarmy.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY, specifying that you want your donation applied to San Bernardino Corps in California. Donors are asked to drop off turkeys, hams, canned food, cash, checks or gift cards at the Salvation Army's Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, CA 92373. For more information, call (909) 792-6868. About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals without discrimination. They serve the cities of Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino and Yucaipa, as well as Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead and other mountain communities. The Salvation Army is one of the world's largest charitable and service organizations and has served San Bernardino since 1888, supporting those in need.
Valdez Educational Services Expands its Services Statewide through Private Pay
Tue, Oct 06, 2026 19:04 EDT
"Until now, access to Valdez Educational Services' innovative tutoring and mentoring programs was available only through public school districts that partnered with us. Through Private Pay, families can access services regardless of where they live or which school district they are in," said Aaron Valdez, founder and CEO of Valdez Educational Services.
Valdez Educational Services Expands its Services Statewide through Private Pay
Tue, Oct 06, 2026 14:55 EDT
"Until now, access to Valdez Educational Services' innovative tutoring and mentoring programs was available only through public school districts that partnered with us. Through Private Pay, families can access services regardless of where they live or which school district they are in," said Aaron Valdez, founder and CEO of Valdez Educational Services. SAN BERNARDINO, CA - Valdez Educational Services is expanding its tutoring and mentoring services statewide with a Private-Pay option. Until now, access to the organization's successful tutoring and mentoring services was available only through public school districts that partnered with Valdez Educational Services. The services provided through Valdez Educational Services are designed to meet the diverse needs of students, families, foster youth, and those with disabilities who need special education and/or related services. Valdez delivers tutoring and mentoring both in person and online, seven days a week. Students find Valdez's approach effective. For example, Ionatana Asu, now a sophomore at Cajon High School in San Bernardino, said, "Through persistence from my tutor, my grades went from a low Fs to high A's". Asu made his comments at a recent Valdez-sponsored student achievement banquet. Private Pay means a family pays directly for these services, rather than securing them through their local school district or another third-party payer. The benefits of Private Pay include, but are not limited to, the following: More personalized services: Providers can tailor the services to the client's preferences and circumstances. More flexibility: The client can choose the type, schedule, and frequency of services based on their needs. Continuity of care: The client can continue receiving services without depending on continued eligibility. Parents stay in control: Fewer restrictions; services don't have to meet insurance or government program requirements or authorization rules. Valdez Educational Services offers a comprehensive suite of tutoring and mentoring services for K-12 students, including increasing attendance and instructional recovery, tutoring for foster youth, and high school mentoring. "Our tutoring and mentoring program emphasizes the student's skill development and fostering the positive attitudes, behaviors, and strategies that are essential for academic success," said Aaron Valdez, founder and CEO of Valdez Educational Services. "Our goal is to equip students with the skills and confidence necessary for lifelong success, whether it's in the classroom, at the workplace, or in their personal lives. Our mission is to ensure that all students possess the foundational skills necessary for lifelong academic and professional success.," Valdez added. Valdez Educational Services was founded in 2017 in San Bernardino, CA. It is a private tutoring and academic support organization that tutors and mentors students in grades K-12. A hallmark of the Valdez Educational Services approach is the quality of its educators. "We train our tutors to be kind, gentle, supportive, and caring while delivering the specific educational support each student needs," said cofounder and President, Chad Brammer. Valdez Educational Services tutors are diverse, relatable, and relatively close in age to the students they nurture. The tutors are often current or recent university graduates. These mentors are passionate about education and are dedicated to helping students overcome obstacles. "Until now, access to Valdez Educational Services' innovative tutoring and mentoring programs was available only through public school districts that partnered with us. Through P rivate Pay, families can access services regardless of where they live or which school district they are in," said Aaron Valdez, founder and CEO of Valdez Educational Services. With Private Pay, Valdez Educational Services now offers the convenience of direct payments from parents when district partnerships are not available. Scholarships are available to students in need. For more information, call Eva Valdez at (909) 362-3620, email Eva@ValdezEducation.com or visit ValdezEducation.com . About Valdez Educational Services Valdez Educational Services offers customized educational solutions and support designed to meet the specific needs of students, families, foster families, and school districts. Their results-oriented approach focuses on improving academic skills and building healthy attitudes, behaviors, and strategies that lead to short-term academic success and long-term achievement in life. Valdez Educational Services provides both in-person and online support, seven days a week.
Help Shape Future Investment in Your Neighborhood
Tue, Oct 06, 2026 14:21 EDT
Join the City of Atlanta and Invest Atlanta for an October 8 Virtual Community Meeting on Redevelopment Plans The City of Atlanta and Invest Atlanta are inviting people who live, work, own a business or property, or otherwise have a general interest in seven Tax Allocation District (TAD) communities to participate in an October 8 virtual meeting and help shape the updates to the districts' Redevelopment Plans. These plans will help guide future investment and development within each TAD. "The people who know these neighborhoods best should help shape what comes next," said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, who also serves as Board Chair of Invest Atlanta. "These TAD plans will help guide future investment across seven communities, so we want residents, business owners and other stakeholders at the table early, asking questions and telling us what their neighborhoods need. Good planning starts with listening, and that is exactly what this process is designed to do." The seven TADs included in the planning process are: Eastside Westside Campbellton Road Metropolitan Parkway Hollowell/MLK Stadium Neighborhoods Perry Bolton The virtual community meeting will provide an opportunity for residents and stakeholders to learn about the redevelopment planning process, understand how TAD investments can support Atlanta communities, share their priorities for future investment and learn how to engage throughout the process. WHAT: TAD Redevelopment Virtual Community Meeting WHEN: Thursday, October 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m. WHERE: Online REGISTER Here: CLICK HERE "Updating these Redevelopment Plans is an important opportunity to ensure future investments are aligned with the needs and priorities of the communities we serve," said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta. "We want Atlantans to understand the role these plans play in shaping future development and, most importantly, to have an opportunity to share their perspectives and help inform what comes next. Hearing directly from the people who live, work, and invest in these communities is an important part of planning for Atlanta's future." The October 8 meeting is the beginning of the community engagement process with several in-person meetings to take place in the upcoming weeks. Community members are encouraged to participate in the meeting and continue sharing feedback as the Redevelopment Plans are updated. About Tax Allocation Districts Tax Allocation Districts are an economic development tool used to help finance improvements and investments in designated areas where development or redevelopment is needed. TAD financing can help support projects that contribute to community revitalization, infrastructure improvements, affordable housing, job creation, and other public benefits. The updated Redevelopment Plans will help establish a framework for future investments within the seven TADs and provide guidance for projects and initiatives that advance redevelopment goals. For more information about the TAD Redevelopment Plan updates and to participate in the virtual community meeting, visit ATLtadupdate.com . ###
Kino School Music Classroom Nears Completion Following Tucson Federal Credit Union's $90,000 Gift
Tue, Oct 06, 2026 13:00 EDT
Drywall, doors, and windows now in place; final HVAC balancing, fire system review, and exterior painting remain before opening The new music classroom at Kino School is nearing completion, with drywall, doors, windows, insulation, and wiring now in place following a $90,000 gift from Tucson Federal Credit Union (TFCU) to fund the campus expansion. TFCU presented the gift to Kino School in December 2025 to support the conversion of a 336-square-foot covered porch into a fully enclosed, climate-controlled, sound-insulated music classroom. The project has since passed multiple inspections, and recent photos from the school show the space taking shape as a fully finished classroom. A short punch list remains before the space is ready for students: the HVAC system still requires air balancing, the fire suppression system is under review by the fire marshal after an engineered solution was proposed, and the exterior will be painted once the new stucco has fully cured. Kino School leadership expects the fire system review to take a couple of months to resolve. Founded in 1976, Kino School is a K-12 nonprofit that serves students who learn differently through individualized, project-based instruction. The school maintains an 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio and centers its curriculum on STEAM, the arts, and emotional intelligence rather than standardized testing. Nearly 90% of Kino families receive financial assistance, and more than a third of students have special needs, both figures well above state averages. Founded by teachers, education is a core mission value for Tucson Federal Credit Union. The gift reflects TFCU's ongoing commitment to Southern Arizona's educational landscape and its belief that students of all learning styles deserve the opportunity to succeed.
Young Somerset and The Newt announce pioneering Farm to help young people grow skills, confidence and futures
Tue, Oct 06, 2026 11:14 EDT
Young Somerset is creating a pioneering new Farm near Wincanton where young people will be able to grow their skills, confidence and future prospects through nature, practical learning and sustainable food growing. The Young Somerset Farm is being made possible through an incredibly generous donation of land from The Newt in Somerset , supporting Young Somerset's ambitious plans to reach and help many more young people across the county. The Farm will create opportunities for young people to build confidence, develop practical skills, support their wellbeing and explore future pathways through growing, food, nature and enterprise. Young people will be actively involved in shaping the Farm as it develops, supported by Young Somerset staff, the Farm team, volunteers and local partners. Nik Harwood, Chief Executive of Young Somerset, said: "This is an incredibly significant and generous donation from The Newt, which will help Young Somerset realise an exciting and ambitious vision and create a genuinely different opportunity for young people across Somerset. "We know that young people learn and thrive in different ways and, for some, practical activity, being outdoors and seeing the tangible results of what they have achieved can be incredibly powerful. The Farm will provide an inclusive environment where young people can connect with nature, develop practical skills and discover new strengths and possibilities. "We will quite literally be growing food, but our real ambition is to help young people grow too - in confidence, skills, wellbeing and their sense of what might be possible for their future. We are enormously grateful to The Newt for gifting the land and enabling us to reach and support many more young people for years to come." Andrew Foulkes, CEO of Hospitality at The Newt in Somerset, said: "We are delighted to gift this land to Young Somerset and support the creation of a place that will provide meaningful opportunities for young people. "Growing, nature and working with the land can have a powerful impact on confidence, wellbeing and practical skills. We look forward to seeing Young Somerset's vision for the Farm take shape and the difference it will make." Preparations for the Young Somerset Farm are now underway. Activity at the site is expected to begin in early 2027, with the first full growing and activity season planned from March 2027. Young Somerset will share further information about the Farm, the activities it will offer and future opportunities through its website and social media channels.
All Aboard for One of the Largest and Most Unique Beer Festivals in the Country
Tue, Oct 06, 2026 09:44 EDT
Thursday 15 to Sunday 18 October 2026 - This autumn, travellers can swap the conventional festival field for a five-mile heritage railway as the Spa Valley Railway's award-winning Real Ale & Cider Festival returns to Tunbridge Wells. The festival opens at Tunbridge Wells West on Thursday evening; vintage trains then carry visitors between three characterful station venues from Friday to Sunday, combining a major drinks festival with live music, local food and a scenic Steam Train journey through the High Weald. The 16th festival will bring together around 200 real ales, 40 Kent Green Hop beers, 14 keg beers and 70 ciders at Tunbridge Wells West, Groombridge and Eridge. The railway journey is not simply transport between bars: it is the thread that joins the experience, with heritage trains, countryside views and drinks available on selected services. At Tunbridge Wells West, full bands will perform on the main stage inside the atmospheric engine shed; Groombridge will offer a more intimate acoustic soundtrack; and Eridge will add its own lively mix of smaller bands. Freshly prepared food will be served across the line, creating an easy, unhurried day out in which visitors can taste, travel and explore at their own pace. Entry to every festival site is free. The festival opens at Tunbridge Wells West at 6pm on Thursday 15 October, with no train services operating that day. Heritage trains and the full three-station festival programme run from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 October only. Rover tickets provide unlimited train travel between the venues on those three days, making it possible to experience the entire line in one memorable day. Why It Belongs on the Autumn Travel Calendar - Around 200 real ales from breweries across the UK - 40 Kent Green Hop beers, showcasing the fresh flavours of the county's hop harvest - 70 ciders and 14 keg beers, offering something for every taste - Live music and food across three characterful stations - Steam and heritage diesel trains through the beautiful High Weald Jonnie Pay, General Manager of the Spa Valley Railway, said: "Few festivals let you arrive by heritage train, step into three very different venues and enjoy the landscape as part of the day. This is a celebration of flavour, music and railway travel rolled into one - equally rewarding for serious beer enthusiasts, cider lovers and visitors looking for an original autumn escape with friends or family." We would also like to thank Royal Tunbridge Wells Together for its continued support and generous contribution towards marketing this annual event." The combination of vintage rail travel, three contrasting station settings and one of the country's largest gatherings of Kent Green Hop beers gives the festival a strong sense of place. Visitors can compare classic bitters, bold stouts, refreshing pales, modern craft pours and an exceptional range of ciders while crossing the Kent and Sussex countryside. The Home of Kent Green Hop Beer A major highlight will be one of the country's largest gatherings of Kent Green Hop beers. Brewed with freshly harvested hops from Kent's hop gardens, these seasonal beers deliver exceptionally fresh aromas and flavours that can only be enjoyed for a limited period around harvest time. For seasoned beer explorers and curious newcomers alike, the festival is a rare chance to taste the hop harvest at its freshest, meet friends, enjoy the music and experience a heritage railway in full festival spirit. Three Stations, One Unforgettable Journey From Friday to Sunday, visitors can arrive at any festival site, purchase a festival glass and begin exploring. Rover tickets for unlimited heritage train travel are available in advance or at the stations, and the railway has published the 2026 train timetable online. Full event details, opening times and tickets are available at https://spavalleyrailway.co.uk/events/real-ale-cider-festival/ Visitors are encouraged to plan their journey, allow plenty of time to explore all three stations and enjoy the festival responsibly. Card-carrying CAMRA members can receive a 25% discount on train travel when purchasing at a ticket office. Booking Information The 16th Real Ale & Cider Festival opens at Tunbridge Wells West at 6pm on Thursday 15 October 2026 and continues across all three festival sites from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 October. Trains operate Friday to Sunday only; there are no train services on Thursday. Festival entry is free, while train travel requires a ticket. For the latest beer and cider lists, opening times, the train timetable and advance Rover tickets, visit https://spavalleyrailway.co.uk/events/real-ale-cider-festival/ Contact Details Spa Valley Railway, West Station, Nevill Terrace, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5QY. For media enquiries and image requests, please contact Caroline Edmunds at Pennington PR on 01892 616647.
From £5,000 to Seven Figures a Month: Preston Entrepreneur Builds Live-commerce Powerhouse in Greater Manchester
Tue, Oct 06, 2026 05:32 EDT
A Preston-born entrepreneur who invested just £5,000 to launch five live-commerce studios in Stockport has grown the business into a seven-figure-a-month operation 16 months on, as live shopping gains traction as a sales channel in UK e-commerce. Founder Ash Patel's company, KOVA, now employs more than 140 people, including 120 presenters and supports more than 40 brands, with a further 35 brands on its waiting list. Patel, who has spent around a decade working across marketing, digital media, e-commerce and consumer brands, previously helped launch and grow consumer brand Desso, taking it into major retailers and appearing on Dragons' Den. It was during this period that he became closely involved with TikTok as it developed its e-commerce offering, working with agencies and other businesses across the platform's wider ecosystem. That experience led him to identify a gap in the UK's live-commerce market. While brands were increasingly being encouraged to treat live streaming as a genuine sales channel, Patel found that many of the services on offer, some charging around £250 an hour, did not match the production quality, consistency or brand standards that established businesses required. Rather than accept the market as it stood, Patel researched where live commerce was heading, travelling to China to study the far more developed live-shopping ecosystem built around Douyin. Seeing the scale, professionalism and infrastructure behind Chinese live commerce convinced him that the UK was still at an early stage, and that there was room to build something considerably more ambitious. He returned to the UK and invested approximately £5,000 to launch KOVA with five studios in Stockport, initially offering a white-label live-commerce service to agencies across the country. This allowed KOVA to operate behind the scenes for a wide range of brands and categories, rapidly building expertise in presenters, production, scripting and conversion. Within six months, the five-studio operation had grown to ten, before KOVA expanded again into a significantly larger site in Trafford Park. KOVA has since achieved S5 Platinum status as an official TikTok Shop Partner (TSP). Ash Patel said, "We started KOVA with around £5,000 and five studios in Stockport. We didn't begin with a huge investment or a massive team: we started by doing the work ourselves and learning everything we could about what makes live commerce actually perform. "For me, the journey is also proof that you don't necessarily have to be in London or start with millions of pounds to build something ambitious. I'm from Preston, and we've built KOVA in Greater Manchester because I believe the North West has the talent, creativity and energy to become a serious part of this industry." For more information, please visit www.mykova.co .
Autumn Is the Time to Check Your Manual Handling Equipment Reminds Midland Pallet Trucks
Tue, Oct 06, 2026 04:55 EDT
As autumn sets in, businesses that rely on pallet trucks and other manual handling equipment should be taking a closer look at the condition of their equipment before colder, wetter and darker conditions become the norm. The change in season can alter the environment in which handling equipment is being used. Outdoor loading and unloading areas can become wet, floors can become more slippery and reduced daylight can affect visibility, while colder conditions may create additional considerations for equipment that is used outside or moved between indoor and outdoor areas. For businesses, that makes Autumn a sensible time to inspect equipment rather than waiting for a problem to appear during the winter months. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Midland Pallet Trucks, said that relatively simple checks could identify problems before they become disruptive. "Handling equipment is one of those things that gets used all day without much thought, until something stops working properly. By then, the problem can be far more inconvenient to fix than it would have been a few weeks earlier. "Autumn's arrival, before winter sets in, is a good time to look at the basics. Wheels should be checked for damage and excessive wear, moving parts should operate as they should, and any signs of hydraulic problems should be investigated rather than ignored. Where electric equipment is used, batteries and charging arrangements also deserve attention. "It is also worth looking at the environment around the equipment. A pallet truck that works perfectly well on a clean, level warehouse floor may be much harder to operate if it is regularly being taken across wet yards, uneven surfaces or thresholds." The Health and Safety Executive highlights wet, slippery or uneven floors, poor lighting and cold conditions among factors that can increase physical ill-health risks during manual handling. Its guidance also advises employers to consider the equipment available to help with handling tasks. For operators, that means equipment checks should form part of a wider review of how loads are being moved as winter approaches. If conditions or workloads have changed, the equipment originally chosen for a task may no longer be the most appropriate option. "Businesses don't need to wait for a breakdown before asking whether their equipment - be it a pallet truck, a stacker truck or a lift table - is still suitable," added Chesworth. For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
SGS highlights updated Belgian requirements for food contact ceramics
Tue, Oct 06, 2026 04:40 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 126.26, highlighting Belgium's updated requirements, including stricter lead and cadmium migration limits for food contact ceramics. The Royal Decree of July 19, 2026 (C-2026/006323) amends the Royal Decree of May 1, 2006, on the declaration of compliance and performance criteria for the method of analysis for ceramic articles intended to come into contact with foodstuffs. Published on September 11, 2026, the amendment implements the Benelux Committee of Ministers Decision M (2024) 5 of November 29, 2024, on food contact ceramics. Alongside stricter migration limits for lead and cadmium, the July 19 Royal Decree includes provisions allowing economic operators to consider specific factors when placing food contact ceramics on the market. The decree entered into force on May 29, 2026, and affects stakeholders across the food contact ceramic materials and articles supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries operating in Belgium. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 126.26 provides further information on the applicable categories of food contact ceramics, the revised migration limits for lead and cadmium and the factors economic operators may consider when placing these products on the market. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to SafeGuardS 126.26 for more details. SGS food contact material services SGS's technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests, along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's food contact material services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Belgium Updates Rules for Food Contact Ceramics SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
SGS highlights New Zealand's proposed asbestos requirements for specified sand products
Tue, Oct 06, 2026 04:25 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 127.26, detailing New Zealand's proposals to prohibit asbestos in specified consumer sand products and introduce associated testing requirements. The draft Unsafe Goods (Consumer Sand Products) Notice 2026 was announced by the World Trade Organization (WTO) on September 4, 2026. If approved, the notice would prohibit asbestos in specified consumer sand products, including toy sand, toys containing sand and certain decorative, craft or artistic products. Under the proposal, asbestos must not be detected using specified testing methods. Testing laboratories must be accredited to ISO/IEC 17025:2017, with the method of analysis included in their scope of accreditation. Certificates, reports or results must also be dated no more than 12 months before the goods are imported into or manufactured in New Zealand. Businesses involved in supplying toy sand and other specified goods containing sand would be affected, including manufacturers, importers and retailers. Comments on the draft notice were accepted until September 25, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 127.26 includes further information on the notice's applicable product categories, testing methods and other proposed requirements. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to SafeGuardS 127.26 for more details. SGS consumer product services SGS provides news about the development of regulations affecting consumer products as a complimentary service. With an unrivaled global network of laboratories, they offer physical/mechanical testing, analytical testing and consultancy work for technical and non-technical parameters applicable to a comprehensive range of consumer products. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's consumer product services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full New Zealand Proposes Asbestos Testing for Specified Sand Products SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Maola Local Dairies® Donates Truckload of Fresh Milk to Capital Area Food Bank
Mon, Oct 05, 2026 17:10 EDT
Maola Local Dairies ® donated a tractor trailer load of fresh milk, or 3,825 gallons, to the Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB) to help provide nutritious milk to families facing hunger across the Greater Washington, D.C. region. The donation came as part of an event held by the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) Foundation which brought dairy industry leaders together for a morning of volunteer service to CAFB. Maola ® team members joined a volunteer service event at the food bank, packing senior food bags for distribution through its community network. The donation and volunteer effort reflect Maola's commitment to supporting the communities it serves and helping make wholesome dairy products more accessible. Maola's donation of 3,825 gallons of milk will provide more than 61,000 eight-ounce servings of nutritious dairy to families served by the food bank. Food insecurity continues to affect a significant portion of households across the region. According to the CAFB's 2026 Hunger Report , 38% of households in the Washington, D.C.-Maryland-Virginia region experienced food insecurity in the past year, while approximately one in three children in the region experienced food insecurity. "As a farmer-owned cooperative and local dairy brand, Maola believes nutritious milk should be within reach for every family," said Roddy Purser, Interim CEO of Maola Local Dairies. "We are proud to support the Capital Area Food Bank and grateful to our employees and partners who helped deliver fresh milk to neighbors who need it. Caring for our communities is central to who we are and how we put our values into action." Milk is a nutrient-rich powerhouse . Each 8-ounce glass of milk contains 13 essential nutrients, including high-quality protein to help build and maintain lean muscle, B vitamins (riboflavin, B-12, niacin and pantothenic acid) for energy, vitamin A, zinc, and selenium for a healthy immune system, bone-building nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D and phosphorus, iodine to help regulate metabolism, and potassium to help maintain normal muscle function and regulate the balance of fluids in the body.
AMA's Marketing / And Podcast Named A Finalist in the 5th Annual Signal Awards
Mon, Oct 05, 2026 12:07 EDT
AMA's Marketing / And Podcast Named A Finalist in the 5th Annual Signal Awards Marketing / And is Nominated in the Creativity & Marketing Category Chicago, IL -The American Marketing Association (AMA) is proud to announce that its podcast, Marketing / And , has been named an official Finalist in the Creativity & Marketing category in the fifth edition of the Annual Signal Awards. Selected by the Signal Awards Judging Academy out of an exceptional pool of entries, Marketing / And has been recognized as one of the finest podcasts in the industry. As a finalist, the show is in the running to take home a Gold, Silver, or Bronze Award, with the winners to be revealed on October 20th. Hosted by AMA CEO Bennie F. Johnson , Marketing / And dives deep into the dynamic world of business, culture, and modern strategy. The podcast features compelling conversations with CEOs, CMOs, and industry leaders and innovators exploring critical topics like moving past fear and hesitation, and building meaningful brand connections. By spotlighting the intersection of marketing and broader cultural forces, the podcast provided listeners with actionable insights and forward-thinking leadership perspectives. In addition to competing for the juried awards, Marketing / And is now eligible for the 2026 Signal Listener's Choice Award. This global competition puts the power in the hands of the fans and listeners, who can vote for their favorite shortlisted podcasts from now till Thursday, October 15. AMA encourages all listeners, members, and marketing professionals to cast their votes at the official Signal Listener's Choice voting platform . Listeners can catch brand new episodes of Marketing / And Season 8 live every Wednesday. Whether you are an industry veteran, an aspiring marketer, or a dedicated fan of leadership stories, tune in weekly to join the conversation and discover how top leaders are shaping the future of business. Find more information visit ama.org . ###
Two portraits by Julien Hudson find a permanent home in the French Quarter
Mon, Oct 05, 2026 11:49 EDT
The Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC), home to the world's largest collection of materials related to the history and culture of New Orleans, recently acquired two exceedingly rare paintings by Louisiana's first native-born portraitist and the second-known portraitist of color in America - Julien Hudson . These two important works of American art history, gifted by the Robert and Martha Bolton Living Trust in memory of James D. (Don) Didier, are now available for a rare showing at HNOC's Williams Research Center. For more than a century, the name Julien Hudson has been shrouded in mystery. Born in 1811 in New Orleans, he was the son of a property-owning free woman of color and a white English merchant, ironmonger and ship chandler. He began as a tailor's apprentice before beginning his painting career in the mid-1820s, training first in New Orleans and later in Paris. Little is known about his personal life, outside of scattered details found in a handful of public documents and a pair of early 20th-century reminiscences by former student George Coulon and prominent Creole of color Rodolphe Desdunes. Hudson's untimely, mysterious death at age 33 brought his enigmatic career to an end. Only six of his works are known to exist. "Hudson's story is alluring, frustrating and poignant as he only left behind a fragmented body of work when he died," wrote William Keyse Rudolph, who served as guest curator of the 2011 exhibition "In Search of Julien Hudson" and who co-authored the accompanying catalog. The exhibition was the first retrospective of Hudson's work and for the first time brought together all his known works under one roof. "HNOC is incredibly honored to receive these exceedingly rare paintings - one depicting a Creole boy, the other an African or African-descended man - and to assume the responsibility of stewarding them for posterity. These two important works of American art will join our permanent collection and serve as evidence of our rich and storied past, about which we will always have more to learn," said HNOC's President and CEO Daniel Hammer. The wall text displayed with each portrait will explore what is known and what remains a mystery about the sitters and Hudson himself. The public is invited to visit and reflect on the lives of the individuals depicted in the paintings and the artist who left them behind too soon. HNOC's 2011 exhibition catalog " In Search of Julien Hudson: Free Artist of Color in Pre-Civil War New Orleans " provides essential background on the artist. Edited by HNOC deputy director, Erin M. Greenwald, PhD, the fully illustrated 116-page volume is the most thorough examination of Hudson's work and life to date. Greenwald also contributed the introduction, with additional essays by Patricia Brady and Rudolph. The book can be purchased at HNOC's award-winning museum store or online at shophnoc.org . The two portraits will be on display on the second floor of HNOC's Williams Research Center at 410 Chartres St. in the French Quarter. The public is invited to view the portraits, and museum admission is not required. The Williams Research Center is open Tuesday-Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information about Hudson and to plan your visit, go to hnoc.org .
A President, a Poet, and an Etruscan Shipwreck: How European Quality Traveled to American Tables
Mon, Oct 05, 2026 02:26 EDT
New York, October 5, 2026 - Across Europe, culinary traditions have been shaped by centuries of cultivation, craftsmanship, trade, and cultural exchange. Tuscany offers a particularly vivid testimonial to that enduring European heritage: its wines crossed oceans long before the modern European Union existed, while its olive oil was traded across the Mediterranean in antiquity. Today, the Savor Quality from Europe campaign, co-financed by the European Union, brings that living tradition to American audiences through two of Tuscany's historic denominations: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG and the PDO and PGI extra virgin olive oils represented by APOT - Tuscan Olive Oil Producers Association. In 2026, two anniversaries provide an opportunity to explore how European food and wine have traveled across generations and borders. Two Anniversaries, One Wine As the United States marks the 250th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence, one of the document's principal authors is being remembered for a lesser-known aspect of his life: his appreciation of European wine. Thomas Jefferson, later the third President of the United States, was among the admirers of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, with historical records documenting his orders of several hundred bottles - an early example of how European wine and food culture found a place at the table of the young American republic. That connection has now been revisited in a new book, The Taste of Freedom: Thomas Jefferson, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and the Birth of the United States, by Francesco Clementi and Antonio Gaudioso. Presented in Montepulciano on June 19, 2026, the book traces how European material culture, and Vino Nobile in particular, helped shape a republican society founded on moderation, dialogue, and civic coexistence - one in which Jefferson used the table as a tool of diplomacy. The presentation coincided with another 2026 milestone: the 400th anniversary of the birth of Francesco Redi, the Tuscan scientist and poet who, in his 17th-century poem Bacco in Toscana, gave Montepulciano wine a place in Italian literary tradition that has endured ever since. The Consorzio's celebrations launched in June in Montepulciano's Piazza Grande and will culminate in an international exhibition in March 2027. Long Roots, Living Tradition Olive cultivation has been part of Europe's Mediterranean heritage for thousands of years. In Tuscany, that history can be traced to Etruscan times - a 6th-century BC shipwreck discovered off the Island of Giglio contained amphorae of preserved olives, archaeological confirmation of how central this crop was to Mediterranean trade more than twenty-six centuries ago. That long history is still visible in what grows there today. Romans expanded the practice, medieval monasteries preserved it, and the terraced groves familiar to today's visitors took shape between the 18th and 19th centuries. Tuscany's cultivar heritage - Frantoio, Moraiolo, Leccino, and dozens of local varieties preserved by growers in specific corners of the region - is a direct reflection of Europe's remarkable agricultural diversity and continuity. Sustaining it today is the work of APOT - Tuscan Olive Oil Producers Association, the Pisa-based cooperative representing the producers behind Tuscany's PDO and PGI extra virgin olive oils. APOT's current agenda reflects a sector under significant pressure: climate change, biodiversity, and rising production costs are reshaping a landscape of small, hilly farms, where sustainability is as much economic as environmental. A Successful 2026, and What's Next That through-line - from Etruscan amphorae to Redi's verse to Jefferson's table - is what the Savor Quality from Europe campaign brought to American audiences this spring, reaching more than 400 trade and media professionals across New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, with coverage from Forbes, Fortune, Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and CBS. The campaign's programming continues into 2027, with further U.S. activity in planning. Trade and media professionals interested in attending or arranging interviews with the Consorzio or APOT are invited to contact the campaign's U.S. press office at eter@beviour.com About the Consorzio del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Founded in 1965, the Consorzio safeguards and promotes Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Rosso di Montepulciano, and Vin Santo. Today, it represents nearly 270 producers and leads initiatives to protect these denominations worldwide while advancing sustainability. About APOT - Tuscan Olive Oil Producers Association APOT brings together producers of Tuscany's PDO and PGI extra virgin olive oils, preserving centuries-old traditions while promoting quality and sustainability. Representing oils such as IGP Toscano, DOP Terre di Siena, DOP Lucca, DOP Seggiano, and Chianti Classico DOP, APOT ensures that Tuscan olive oil remains a symbol of authenticity and excellence. Discover the campaign: www.savorqualityfromeurope.eu Facebook: @savorqualityfromeurope Instagram: @savorqualityfromeurope #savorqualityfromeurope For more information on the campaign and upcoming events, please contact: Ms. Silvia Loriga s.loriga@consorziovinonobile.it
When Students Disclose Sexual Violence: UWindsor Researcher Informs Critical Shift in School Response
Fri, Oct 02, 2026 18:09 EDT
Before the age of 15, 45 per cent of Canadian teens will experience dating violence. While the vast majority do not formally report, 74 percent do speak with someone informally about their experience. For teachers who find themselves on the receiving end of these disclosures, knowing what to do can be daunting. Dr. Catherine Vanner, an associate professor at the University of Windsor's Faculty of Education, is helping teachers learn how to respond to student disclosures in supportive and trauma-informed ways. Vanner, whose research focuses on gender-based violence and education, says that while teachers receive mandatory training around their duty to report, they often do not know how to best support students who make a disclosure or how to manage their own well-being in the process. Responding to disclosures is, Vanner says, "always difficult but so important that it be done with care." To help teachers build this capacity, Vanner is participating in a panel to launch the new CARE Model Guide, created by Canadian social change consultancy Possibility Seeds, which provides teachers practical strategies to respond appropriately to student disclosures. The guide encourages teachers to focus on listening to the student, being transparent about reporting requirements, referring to resources, and making time to look after themselves afterwards. It was created through the High School Too project, on which Vanner serves as an advisory board member. High School Too emerged out of a series of student-led protests in 2022 against sexual violence and inadequate response by school boards and administrators in Canadian high schools. Led by consent educator and Possibility Seeds CEO Farrah Khan, Possibility Seeds received provincial funding to formalize High School Too to support educators and students in Ontario in responding to gender-based violence. At the centre of the work remains a commitment to prioritizing student involvement and voice. To that end, Vanner is also co-leading a research project with Possibility Seeds in which high school students navigate school board policies around sexual violence to determine how accessible this information is. "This movement entirely originated with the initiatives of high school students and continues to be driven by student agency and incorporating student voices," Vanner says. The CARE Model Guide will be available online following its online launch, Monday Oct. 5 at 12 p.m.
PIF Energy Plans $2 Billion Crude Tanker Fleet as G7 Moves to Release 100 Million Barrels of Emergency Stocks
Fri, Oct 02, 2026 15:55 EDT
Dallas energy company targets up to 15 crude carriers to expand Hormuz-linked transport capacity as President Trump presses Europe to release reserves and the G7 front-loads diesel supply PIF Energy today announced a planned $2 billion investment to acquire up to 15 crude oil tankers, adding seaborne transport capacity at a time when disruption around the Strait of Hormuz and tight refined-product markets are intensifying the global fuel crisis. The company said vessel acquisitions are already under way and are intended to create a fleet capable of moving crude from producing markets through the Strait of Hormuz to refineries and downstream customers. PIF Energy expects to complete the initial acquisition program within three to four weeks, subject to vessel availability, commercial due diligence and customary closing conditions. The announcement follows sustained pressure from US President Donald J. Trump for European countries to make additional emergency fuel stocks available as diesel prices and supply concerns rise. On 2 October, the G7 said it would coordinate through the International Energy Agency the release of 100 million barrels of diesel, crude oil and other reserves over four months, beginning immediately. The plan includes a substantial front-loaded diesel release within the first 20 days and a commitment to avoid energy export restrictions between G7 countries. Ben Morrow, founder and CEO of Dallas-based PIF Energy, said: "President Trump's call for Europe to release more reserves reflects the urgency now facing the fuel market. The G7's 100-million-barrel commitment can provide near-term relief, particularly through the front-loaded diesel release, but emergency stocks are a bridge rather than a permanent solution. The market also needs dependable physical capacity to move crude from producing regions to the refineries that can turn it into diesel, gasoline and other essential products." "Our planned investment is focused on that transport constraint. A fleet of up to 15 crude carriers would give PIF Energy the ability to schedule repeatable voyages, respond to refinery demand and help keep barrels moving through one of the world's most strategically important energy corridors. Vessel selection, operating readiness and commercial discipline will be central to the programme because adding ships only matters if they deliver reliable tonnes and barrels to the right markets at the right time." "The human impact is immediate. Farmers, truckers, manufacturers and households are absorbing higher fuel costs throughout the supply chain. Strategic reserve releases can help calm the short-term shock; sustained shipping and logistics capacity can support resilience beyond it. PIF Energy intends to invest where it can make a practical contribution: moving crude, supporting refinery supply and helping reduce the risk that transport bottlenecks deepen the global fuel crisis. That is how we put our Pay It Forward mission to work." PIF Energy said the acquisition program will prioritize crude carriers suited to its intended trading routes and customer requirements. Each vessel added to the fleet would increase the company's capacity to connect producing markets with refineries, complementing emergency stock releases with longer-term logistics capability. Diesel supply is critical to agriculture, road freight and industrial activity, while crude availability and refinery throughput influence costs across the wider economy. PIF Energy said its strategy is designed to address the transport link in that chain by increasing access to flexible tanker capacity during a period of heightened geopolitical and supply risk. Morrow added: "The test is not whether the industry can generate a headline response; it is whether it can sustain deliveries after emergency measures have run their course. Our objective is steady, repeatable movement of crude to the refineries and markets that need it, supported by assets that can operate through changing market conditions."