HISTORIC NAMIBIAN DIAMOND OWISHI TO MAKE U.S. DEBUT AT EXCLUSIVE EVENT IN SOUTH FLORIDA
Thu, Nov 12, 2026 08:22 EST
ORIGIN De Beers Group and J.R. Dunn Jewelers to present a rare opportunity for consumers to experience one of Namibia's most significant diamond discoveries of the past two decades. Owishi, the historic 176.29-carat rough diamond unveiled earlier this year by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, will make its U.S. debut on November 12 at an exclusive event hosted by J.R. Dunn Jewelers in collaboration with ORIGIN De Beers Group. The diamond's appearance marks the first opportunity for consumers in the United States to experience one of Namibia's most significant diamond discoveries in recent years. Discovered on May 10, 2026, at Namdeb's Southern Coastal Mine in Oranjemund, Namibia, Owishi is the largest diamond recovered from the operation in approximately 20 years. The diamond will serve as the centrepiece of Rare & Remarkable , an invitation-only event designed to immerse guests in the story of natural diamonds, from their formation deep within the Earth billions of years ago to their discovery, cutting and transformation into polished gems. Through a series of interactive experiences, guests will encounter a curated collection of rough diamonds, participate in expert-led presentations and witness live cutting demonstrations that showcase the skill, precision and craftsmanship involved in unlocking a diamond's beauty. Attendees will also have the rare opportunity to view and, subject to security protocols, hold and photograph Owishi, offering an appreciation of its scale and geological significance rarely available outside the industry. The event reflects the mission of ORIGIN De Beers Group, the polished natural diamond program that enables consumers to explore the documented journey of eligible diamonds sourced by De Beers Group. Powered by Tracr, ORIGIN De Beers Group provides access to provenance information and storytelling that connects a diamond to its source and the communities linked to its journey. LYNN SERFATY, General Manager, Natural Diamonds said: " The Desert Diamonds campaign celebrates the unique origins of natural diamonds from the desert landscapes of Southern Africa and the communities connected to their journey. Owishi is a powerful expression of that story. Through ORIGIN De Beers Group, we are giving consumers greater visibility into where diamonds come from, while creating meaningful connections between a diamond's remarkable origin, its provenance and the people who bring it to the world." J.R. Dunn Jewelers is one of the United States' leading independent luxury jewelers and was among the select North American retailers chosen to introduce ORIGIN De Beers Group following its launch in 2025. SEAN DUNN, President of J.R. Dunn Jewelers, said: "Owishi represents the rarity, wonder and natural history that make diamonds unlike any other product on earth. We are honoured to host its first appearance in the United States and to give our guests the opportunity to experience a discovery of this significance firsthand." "Rare & Remarkable is about helping consumers understand the journey behind natural diamonds. From the moment a diamond is recovered to the expertise required to transform it into a polished gem, every diamond carries a story worth sharing." "Very few people will ever have the opportunity to hold a 176-carat rough diamond in their hands. We wanted to create an experience that combines that sense of wonder with a deeper appreciation of where natural diamonds come from and the craftsmanship behind them." A Family Legacy with a Global Perspective Founded in 1969 by Jim and Ann Marie Dunn, J.R. Dunn Jewelers is a second-generation, family-owned luxury jeweler with an approximately 14,000-square-foot flagship showroom in Lighthouse Point. For Sean Dunn, a 2026 National Jeweler Retailer Hall of Fame inductee, Rare & Remarkable brings together his family's legacy, international industry relationships and commitment to natural diamond education. "My parents built this business on relationships, trust and the belief that jewelry should always carry meaning," Dunn said. "Today, those relationships extend to people in diamond-producing countries around the world." "We have an opportunity to tell a much bigger story about natural diamonds-one that celebrates their extraordinary beauty while recognizing the people and communities connected to their journey. That's the story I'm passionate about sharing." Rare & Remarkable will take place Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at J.R. Dunn Jewelers in Lighthouse Point, Florida. The evening is invitation-only. Media interviews, photography and filming opportunities may be arranged in advance, subject to security and access approvals. Guest access to Owishi, including the opportunity to hold and photograph with the diamond, will be managed according to event security protocols.
One Manicure, Three Celebrations! This Nail Look Is Perfect for Any Christmas-Related Celebration
Thu, Nov 12, 2026 06:19 EST
The festive season asks a lot of a manicure. Between work Christmas parties, family lunches and midnight on 31 December, a single set of nails can have a fortnight or more to get through - and few of us can squeeze in multiple trips to the salon in that time. If you're trying to work out what sort of nails can withstand the demands of the season without extensive time on upkeep, wonder no more. Rawr Beauty's nail experts have a simple answer: champagne gold cat-eye nails in a soft almond shape. The cat-eye technique uses magnetic particles in the gel to create a band of shimmer that seems to move as the hand does. It gives the nails real depth and a glow that catches the light, for a rich - and festive! - finishing touch that is not too over the top. It also reads differently in daylight than it does after dark, so the same set feels elegant at a lunch table and just as stylish at a late-night party. The result is a classy, timeless look that earns its place on each occasion: Christmas Party : The shimmer really shows in the evenings. Under party lighting, the cat-eye effect glints whenever you raise your glass - or reach for another mince pie. Christmas Day : This soft champagne gold will give a warm and sophisticated look that will still be subtle enough for a family meal. It looks as natural with a knitted jumper as it does with a dress, and not even your most judgemental great-aunt will think it is trying too hard. New Year's Eve : Come midnight, the reflective finish does the talking! It stands up to sequins, velvet and eveningwear, and works as a statement without needing a bolder colour. The almond shape, softly tapered with a rounded tip, helps the look to stay feminine and classic while also elongating the finger. Champagne gold is a very forgiving colour, chosen to complement differing skin tones and multiple outfit changes. "A great festive manicure should work as hard as you do throughout December. Our champagne gold cat eyes will give a fancy look without being too bold. They will look great at a work party on a Thursday night and will still be appropriate at the Christmas table. The almond shape will give a softer look which most people will want during a busy time in their diary," said Rawr Beauty co-founder, Rakesh Dasani Rawr Beauty has 26 salons in city centres, shopping centres and major retailers including Primark and Asda, to make getting your manicure as easy as possible during the busy Christmas period. For more information, please visit www.rawrbeauty.co.uk .
As Awaab's Law Heads for Private Rentals, Damp Experts Warn Inspection Capacity Cannot Be Overlooked
Thu, Nov 12, 2026 06:00 EST
The Government is asking how Awaab's Law should work for private landlords. The UK-wide trade body, Federation of Damp says one question deserves far more attention: who is going to carry out the required damp and mould investigations? The Government consultation , which closes on 18 December, proposes extending Awaab's Law to private rented tenancies. It also asks whether supported housing, temporary accommodation and care-leaver accommodation should be covered, and more than five million additional households could ultimately be affected. Its starting point is the social housing model, where landlords must investigate a potential significant hazard within 10 working days. The consultation itself asks how hard it would be to find enough suitably competent people to do that work. It's a fair concern. The consultation notes that 82% of private landlords own fewer than five properties and assumes very few have repair teams of their own. Most would be hiring contractors one job at a time. According to Sam Fitzgerald, founder of the Federation of Damp, the pressure is already visible. "The Government's own review of social housing found surveyor shortages were holding delivery back. Now you're talking about adding millions of private tenancies to the same pool of people. Damp surveying isn't a regulated profession - so when demand jumps, anyone can step in to fill the gap." Speed is the other risk. A deadline may reward whoever can turn up quickest, and that isn't always the person best placed to work out what's wrong. "Fast wrong answers are worse than slow ones," Fitzgerald said. "Condensation gets treated as rising damp, or a genuine defect gets written off as lifestyle, and the mould comes back worse a few months later. Diagnosis must come before treatment." Social landlords have had a year of Awaab's Law to learn this. "Response times get measured and accuracy doesn't, so all the pressure pushes one way," Fitzgerald added. "Private landlords and agents can learn from that now, before the law reaches them." The consultation's starting position is that a landlord can use anyone who, in their own judgement, has the right skills and experience. It also asks whether more should be required. Nothing has been decided, and the Federation is not suggesting that any particular qualification is a legal requirement - but landlords who want to show they chose well will need something to point to. "Ask what damp training they've done, whether they answer to an independent body with a complaints process, and whether you can see a report they've written," Fitzgerald said. "The report tells you most of what you need to know." The Federation of Damp is encouraging landlords, letting agents and others in the sector to respond before the consultation closes. For more information, please visit federationofdamp.co.uk .
When your partner confides in AI instead of you: A relationship therapists suggests three questions to ask
Thu, Nov 12, 2026 05:43 EST
AI is always available, never tired and asks for nothing back. So, it may come as no surprise to learn that the use of AI as a romantic companion or source of relationship advice is becoming more common. Rea Shahroudi is a London-based psychosexual and relationship therapist. The founder of specialised sex and relationship therapy platform, Intima Therapy, says that what happens next is the telling part. Does talking to AI help you explain how you feel to your partner after a disagreement, or does it make it easier to leave the conversation there? In a US study of young adults published in May 2026 , 56% of regular AI romantic companion users said they wished conversations with their partner were more like conversations with their AI companion. While the survey stopped short of saying the use of chatbots created distance between couples or whether people turned to them because they already felt disconnected, an always available, never tired, and never disagreeable virtual companion could raise questions about what's missing in the real life relationship, Rea suggests. She recommends couples who find that conversations they once had with each other are now happening in a chat window, instead, ask themselves the following three questions: 1.Why is it easier to talk to AI? "The first thing I would want to explore is what needs the person is meeting with AI that they are not meeting in their relationship," says Rea. "In what way does AI understand them better? What does understanding mean to them? Could it be validation rather than understanding?" Finding out your partner has been sharing their intimate thoughts or romantic concerns with a chatbot can be painful, especially if that information isn't being shared with you. Rea says it's important to question why. Could it be that person struggles to ask for what they need? Are you offering advice when your partner just wants to be heard? "From an attachment perspective, someone who often seeks reassurance from their partner may find comfort in receiving that instant emotional support that AI can provide by being heard and having their nervous system calmed on demand," she explains. "I suspect that people with an avoidant attachment style, who have less need for closeness, may not rely so much on AI for self-regulation, but find it appealing because it makes no demands and has no expectations, so there is no risk of being engulfed." 2.Do you feel understood, or do you feel agreed with? A well-meaning and mostly agreeable AI companion may be very appealing, but it cannot teach us how to give. AI is mainly one-sided: it is here to serve us, and we take from it. Life and relationships are about exchange: give and take. "Being validated is not the same as being understood by another human being," the therapist notes "Life and relationships are about exchange: give and take." After an argument, your partner may remember the same exchange differently. Hearing their version can be uncomfortable, but it gives you both a chance to work out what went wrong. "Without conflict there is no growth. By 'conflict' I do not mean fighting. I mean being able to disagree, understand each other, negotiate and resolve things." In experiments published in Science in March 2026 , people who received overly agreeable AI responses about an interpersonal conflict became more convinced they were right and less willing to take steps to repair the conflict. 3.How are you using AI when something's bothering you in your relationship? "If you're angry or upset, talking things through with a chatbot can help you work out what you're feeling and find the words to raise it with your partner," Rea advises. "It can be a productive way to process emotions and offer a pause in a moment of distress in a way that can be constructive once you initiate a discussion with your partner. "But if the chatbot has become the only place you feel able to talk about what's bothering you, that's a red flag and signals a deeper problem in the relationship. What feels difficult about bringing it up with your partner? Is it that you struggle to ask for what you need or set boundaries? You might expect criticism because that's what happened last time. Or is it that your partner rarely makes time to talk, or shuts down when the conversation gets difficult?" For more information, visit intimatherapy.co.uk .
SGS webinar helps electronics manufacturers navigate evolving global chemical regulations
Thu, Nov 12, 2026 04:28 EST
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is pleased to host the webinar, 'Meeting Global Chemical Compliance Challenges in Electronics' on November 26, 2026. As global chemical regulations continue to evolve, electrical and electronic (E&E) brands and manufacturers face growing challenges in product compliance and market access. Compliance and supply chain transparency are increasingly important, while restrictions on substances such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) continue to develop across key global markets. Organizations must navigate complex regulatory requirements to mitigate compliance risks and support global market access. In this complimentary webinar, attendees will learn about chemical and regulatory updates across the EU, US and Asia, while exploring key compliance challenges, risk assessment and testing solutions. Participants will gain practical insights into proactive approaches that can help identify potential compliance risks early in the product development process. The webinar will cover topics such as RoHS, REACH, SVHCs, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), Washington State (WAC) flame retardant restrictions, plasticizers and PFAS risk management. The session will also explore SGS total solutions, supporting organizations in managing regulatory requirements across global supply chains. The webinar is designed for engineers, product managers, quality assurance leads and regulatory compliance managers in the electronics sector responsible for product development and global market access. Registration is now open .
Walmart US expands SGS approved testing support across fashion departments
Thu, Nov 12, 2026 04:14 EST
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has expanded its testing support under the Walmart US Third-Party Laboratory Assignment List, increasing its ability to support suppliers across multiple Walmart US fashion departments. As an approved laboratory supporting additional Walmart US fashion departments, SGS helps apparel and accessories suppliers meet quality, safety and compliance testing requirements, enabling efficient product approvals and market access. For a current list of department assignments, suppliers should refer to the latest Walmart US Third-Party Laboratory Assignment List, available through Retail Link: Product Quality and Compliance Library > a1 US Product Quality and Compliance Manual > Third Party Laboratory Assignment. SGS supports these additional Walmart US testing assignments through its globally connected laboratory network across major sourcing markets, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Türkiye, the United States and Vietnam. By providing testing services closer to manufacturing locations, SGS helps simplify logistics, reduce turnaround times and improve coordination throughout the supply chain. Key benefits for Walmart US suppliers include: Expanded testing support across additional Walmart US fashion departments Access to testing services in key sourcing markets worldwide Reduced turnaround times through localized laboratory support More efficient navigation of Walmart US testing requirements Faster and more confident access to Walmart retail channels, both in-store and online Through its global laboratory network and technical expertise, SGS helps suppliers navigate Walmart US requirements efficiently, supporting more efficient product approval, faster market access and stronger supply chain performance. For further information, please contact: Holly Wu Global Key Account Manager US Retail Solutions, SGS Tel: +1 479 403 2269
The Final Stage of Every Delivery Still Depends on Manual Handling Reminds Pallet Trucks UK
Thu, Nov 12, 2026 03:36 EST
A delivery may have travelled hundreds of miles by road, passed through a distribution centre and arrived on a vehicle with a hydraulic tail-lift. Yet the final part of the journey often comes down to a straightforward piece of equipment: the pallet truck. For warehouses, manufacturers, retailers and trade businesses, the last few metres can involve moving a pallet from a vehicle into a building, across a yard or through a loading area to its next destination. It is a small part of the overall supply chain, but it still must be done safely and efficiently. Much attention is given to long-distance transport, warehouse automation and the technology used to track goods between locations. The practical work at the point of delivery often receives less consideration than it deserves. But even when a vehicle has done the hard miles, someone still needs to get the goods off it and move them into the right place. Tail-lifts make it possible to transfer loads between vehicle and ground level, but they do not remove the need for suitable handling equipment - such as pallet trucks , stackers and lift tables . Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Pallet Trucks UK, said, "A delivery isn't finished just because the lorry has arrived. Someone still has to get the goods off the vehicle and move them to wherever they need to go. That last part can be awkward, particularly when access is tight or the delivery area wasn't designed for easy handling. "It's easy to spend time looking at the vehicle or the warehouse system and overlook the equipment used between the two. But if the pallet truck is difficult to manoeuvre, or simply isn't suitable for the job, that can make an ordinary delivery more complicated than it needs to be." The last ten metres may not attract the same attention as the miles that came before them. But they are part of every delivery, and getting them right matters. For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
U.S. PATRIOT GIVES BACK TO VETERANS COMMUNITY PROJECT IN HONOR OF VETERANS DAY
Wed, Nov 11, 2026 11:00 EST
U.S. Patriot (USP), a veteran-founded and led retailer of military uniforms, apparel, footwear, and gear, announced today that it is making a donation to Veterans Community Project (VCP). Veterans Community Project is a nonprofit founded by veterans to help end veteran homelessness. VCP provides veterans in need with safe transitional housing through tiny home communities, along with personalized support such as employment assistance, financial guidance, healthcare connections, and case management. Its goal is to help veterans regain stability and move into permanent housing and independent living. Because USP is a veteran-founded and led company, it understands the commitment military service demands and the challenges that can follow. About 60 percent of the USP workforce is veteran or military-affiliated, so the transition to civilian life and the struggle to find stable housing matter to USP personally. Helping veterans move from homelessness into permanent housing and independent living is a cause that reflects USP's mission, and this Veterans Day USP is honored to stand behind and contribute to VCP's work. "The military community has always taken care of its own. It's a bond that doesn't end when a service member hangs up the uniform. That's why our partnership with Veterans Community Project is so meaningful. Their mission reflects the very best of who we are as a community, ensuring veterans have the support, resources, and sense of belonging they deserve. At U.S. Patriot, we believe honoring service means more than saying thank you. It means stepping up, investing in those who served, and helping create opportunities for veterans and their families to thrive. We are proud to support an organization that is making a real difference and strengthening the communities our veterans call home." JOSH SANDHAUS, VICE PRESIDENT OF MILITARY OPERATIONS, U.S. PATRIOT "At Veterans Community Project, we are on a mission to fix Veteran homelessness and committed to serving every man and woman who wore the uniform. Because of partners like U.S. Patriot, more Veterans will have the chance to find the dignity of home in our Villages, work toward their goals in our case management program, and achieve lasting stability in permanent housing of their own. Through this campaign, a portion of every purchase becomes an investment in those who once took the oath to serve our country, telling them that a community has their back. We are grateful to U.S. Patriot and their customers for enlisting in this mission to fix Veteran homelessness." BRANDONN MIXON, CO-FOUNDER AND CHIEF PROJECT OFFICER, VETERANS COMMUNITY PROJECT
From Genomics to Proteomics: Covaris Expands truCOLLECT® Solution to Support Protein Analysis in Remote Blood Collection
Wed, Nov 11, 2026 10:01 EST
Covaris, a PerkinElmer company specializing in sample preparation technologies for the life sciences industry, today announced that its truCOLLECT® Solution will now support protein analysis workflows in addition to DNA, ensuring researchers can use a single solution to prepare samples for genomic and proteomic analysis at scale, from sample to result. Following its April 2026 launch for genomics workflows, the solution can now be used to collect, rehydrate and lyse whole blood samples with Covaris' Adaptive Focused Acoustics® (AFA®) technology to support proteomic analysis. "Applying the truCOLLECT Solution to protein analysis workflows can significantly simplify the identification and monitoring of proteins and peptides in both research and clinical research settings" said Annemarie Watson, CEO of Covaris. "Users will now be able to implement the same collection method to measure different analytes - from a genotype to an antibody titer or even an inflammation marker." The truCOLLECT Solution enables at-home blood collection without traditional phlebotomy. Patients provide a small finger-stick sample of about 50 µL of whole blood, which is immobilized and desiccated within the device, so the sample can be shipped at room temperature without a cold chain.
Northampton Mum Turns Baby Sensory Experience into a New Career
Wed, Nov 11, 2026 05:10 EST
Danielle Inman only went to three Baby Sensory classes with her daughter before deciding she wanted to run them herself. Now she is preparing to take over Baby Sensory Northampton, with plans to welcome more local families from 28 November 2026. It was not a career move she had planned, but one she was more than prepared for. Danielle had spent most of her working life with children, including time in a nursery, and had also run a personalised gifts business after getting married. But taking her daughter to Baby Sensory gave her an idea of what she might do next. Even as a second-time mum, she came away from the sessions having learnt things about her daughter's development. She liked that there was a reason behind the activities, rather than play simply for the sake of keeping babies entertained. That was what persuaded her to apply for the Northampton franchise after just three weeks of attending. Danielle said, "I went along thinking I knew what to expect, but I was surprised by how much I learnt, even with my second child. It made me look at play differently and gave me ideas about what I could do with my daughter at home. "I remember thinking that I would love to be the person bringing those experiences to other parents." Baby Sensory is a programme for babies from birth to 13 months. Classes use music, movement, lights, textures and other sensory activities, with the research behind them helping parents understand how babies learn during their first year. There is another project Danielle is keen to get off the ground in Northampton. After attending an event about fostering, she decided she wanted to do something practical for families who were having a difficult time. She has since joined forces with Baby Basics Northampton to organise a collection of items for local parents and children in need. The appeal will give people in the area a chance to contribute useful essentials, with Danielle hoping that local families and businesses will get behind it. For more information, please visit www.babysensory.com/northampton .
Making Every Square Metre Count in a Smaller Warehouse More Important Than Ever Says Pallet Truck Shop
Wed, Nov 11, 2026 04:56 EST
With industrial property costs continuing to rise, businesses operating from smaller units have another reason to make careful use of the space they already occupy. The equipment used to move and position goods can make a difference to how easily a compact warehouse or workshop functions, says Pallet Truck Shop. Colliers' October 2026 Industrial and Logistics Market Pulse reported that average UK industrial rents had increased by 4.3% year on year in August. The figure covers the national market, rather than individual regions or unit sizes, but it gives an indication of the rental pressure facing occupiers. For a business paying for a relatively small premises, every aisle, storage area and working space must serve a purpose. Poorly planned handling routes can take up room that might otherwise be used for stock, while equipment that is too large or awkward to manoeuvre can make everyday tasks more difficult. Compact pallet trucks, stackers and table trucks can help businesses make better use of restricted spaces, provided the equipment is suitable for the loads and the work involved. The choice depends on the layout of the premises. A narrow aisle, low doorway or tight turning area may rule out equipment that would work perfectly well in a larger warehouse. Businesses also need to consider pallet dimensions, load weights, lifting heights and the space required to operate safely. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Pallet Truck Shop, said, "When a business is paying for every square metre, it makes sense to look at how much of that space is being used for moving goods rather than storing or working with them. Sometimes the issue is the layout, sometimes it is the equipment, and often it is a combination of the two. "A compact truck or stacker can be useful in a smaller unit, but it has to be the right tool for the job. Buying something simply because it takes up less room isn't much help if it cannot handle the loads or work safely in the space available." There is also a practical limit to how tightly a workplace can be arranged. Aisles and access routes need to remain suitable for the equipment being used, and operators must have enough room to manoeuvre and position loads without creating unnecessary risks. Before taking on additional storage space, businesses could review how materials are currently moved around their premises. Choosing handling equipment that suits the building may help make existing floor space work harder - and without compromising safe access or day-to-day operations. To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
Beignet Fest raises nearly $500,000 to support autism awareness and programming in New Orleans
Tue, Nov 10, 2026 15:58 EST
NEW ORLEANS (Nov. 9, 2026) - Beignet Fest welcomed more than 10,000 attendees this past Saturday to its one-day festival in New Orleans City Park, marking the largest crowds since COVID-19. The annual celebration of one of New Orleans' most iconic dishes in an array of forms also raised nearly $500,000 to support autism awareness and local programs serving children with autism and related developmental differences. The festival celebrated the creativity and culinary talent of participating restaurants and vendors through its annual Best Beignets contest. Attendees voted on their favorite beignet dishes in three different categories, and a panel of media personalities tasted five different savory beignets for the annual Judge's Choice award. The winners of the 2026 Best Beignet contest are: Best Traditional: Cafe Beignet Best Sweet: The Vintage - Oreo Cheesecake Beignet Best Savory: Southern's - Hot Honey Chicken Judges' Choice: Ruby Slipper - Nashville Hot Chicken From traditional powdered-sugar favorites to inventive sweet and savory creations, the contest highlights the culinary talent and creativity that make New Orleans' food culture so special. "This year's Beignet Fest was a tremendous success, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who came out to celebrate with us," said Sherwood Collins, Beignet Fest founder and producer. "Seeing the community come together and raising nearly a half-million dollars toward our mission is meaningful beyond words. What started as a celebration of beignets has grown into something much bigger. We are proud that this community continues to show up for neurodiverse children and their families." Founded in 2016 by Amy and Sherwood Collins, Beignet Fest was created to increase awareness and funding for programs serving children with autism and related developmental differences. Proceeds from the festival support the Beignet Fest Foundation's work funding advocacy, education and enrichment programs for the autism community. Over the last decade now, the Beignet Fest has raised a total of $3.5 million toward its mission. The success of Beignet Fest is made possible through the generosity of attendees, sponsors, participating restaurants, vendors and community partners who share a commitment to this mission. For more information about Beignet Fest and the Beignet Fest Foundation, visit www.beignetfest.com .
Howlett Logistics Partners With Kinetic Insurance to Get Injured Delivery Drivers Back to Work Faster
Tue, Nov 10, 2026 14:39 EST
Kinetic's tech guided program helps Pittsburgh based delivery provider reach 100% return to work rate and cut indemnity costs to just $373 per year NEW YORK - November 10, 2026 - Kinetic Insurance , a technology-driven workers' compensation managing general agent (MGA), today announced the results of its successful partnership with Howlett Logistics , a Pittsburgh-based last-mile delivery provider. By partnering with Kinetic, Howlett Logistics quickly transformed its workers' compensation claims management through proactive safety initiatives, targeted loss control, and a tech-guided return-to-work program. Before partnering with Kinetic, Howlett Logistics faced multiple challenges in managing parcel delivery workers' compensation claims. Pittsburgh is one of the hardest geographic regions to deliver in, requiring drivers to navigate steep hills, narrow roads, one-way streets, bridges, and cliffside homes, all while moving up to 12,000 packages a day. Slips, trips, and sprains in this environment are sometimes unavoidable, and managing workers' comp claims was proving to be costly. Howlett learned an expensive lesson about how a rolled ankle can morph into a major claim. They wanted a partner and advocate that would help them actively control its workers' compensation costs. "Geographically, our drivers were dealing with scenarios like carrying a 50-pound bag of dog food up 25 steps in the winter. It's impossible to prevent all injuries in situations like that, but we knew paper-based return-to-work processes weren't helping us. What we needed was a repeatable return-to-work program so we could provide a path for our employees to return to their jobs safely," said Stacy Howlett, Owner of Howlett Logistics. By replacing manual methods with Kinetic's Rapid Return-to-Work program, Howlett Logistics took a more active role in its workers' compensation, reducing its risk profile and significantly lowering its costs. In its first full policy year with Kinetic Insurance, Howlett Logistics achieved significant operational and financial outcomes, including: 100% Accommodation of Employees : Kinetic's Rapid Return-to-Work Deployment placed 100% of eligible injured drivers into structured accommodation programs, maintaining worker retention and operational productivity. Significantly Reduced Indemnity Costs: Thanks to Rapid Return-to-Work, total wage-replacement indemnity costs for Howlett were limited to just $373 across 21 total claims during the policy period. A More Proactive Safety Culture: Based on Kinetic claims data, Howlett deployed a daily footwear safety check, an on-site shoe program, and targeted safety briefings directly into station routines. Mitigated Claim Severity: Slips and falls (such as ankle sprains) were resolved cleanly and quickly with accommodated light duty, avoiding expensive medical escalations. Stronger Leadership Buy-In: The prospect of receiving a dividend tied to safety performance motivated Howlett's management team to actively enforce safety protocols and drive behavioral compliance. By transitioning to Kinetic, Howlett gained more than an insurance policy. The company enjoys access to real-time claims intelligence, an in-house advocate team, and Kinetic's Rapid Return-to-Work framework. Using the Kinetic Dashboard, Howlett leadership can instantly issue formal offer letters, track progress, and assign structured safety training. "People really do get hurt, through no fault of their own. That's why we want to have the safest workplace possible and better programs for them," said Stacy Howlett, Owner of Howlett Logistics. "With Kinetic, we have a great partner in getting people to return to work quickly or identifying when claims are escalating and what to do next. I've always felt frustrated when working on claims. I don't feel that way with Kinetic." "Historically, parcel and last-mile delivery businesses face a unique structural obstacle. When an employee is injured, there often isn't an obvious 'light-duty' task available for them, resulting in more time away from work and higher indemnity costs," said Adam Price, CEO of Kinetic Insurance. "Tech-guided, structured return-to-work programs like ours can generate light-duty options tailored to policyholders within minutes, enabling frontline employers to facilitate an employee's return to work with dignity. We're proud of what Howlett achieved in just one year and look forward to helping them continue to actively manage their workers' compensation."
Pratikshya Bhandari Wins Herizon Award for Career Guidance Work at Kopila Valley School
Tue, Nov 10, 2026 09:39 EST
BlinkNow is pleased to announce that Pratikshya Bhandari has been named a winner in the 2026 Herizon Awards , in the category of Emerging Leader. Presented by the Business Intelligence Group, the award recognizes women who are changing how the world works. Bhandari, the Futures Program Associate Manager for Kopila Valley School, was recognized for her innovative career guidance work in Surkhet . Through community service learning projects, a new collaborative Maker Space, internships, and scholarships, she and her team empower resilient, hard-working students to discover their strengths, pursue higher education, and lead community change. The 2026 Herizon Awards honor 57 winners across five nominee roles and four countries, spotlighting women whose leadership has moved individuals, teams, companies, industries, and the globe. According to Russ Fordyce, Chief Recognition Officer at the Business Intelligence Group, " Pratikshya is giving students in rural Nepal a real path forward . Through the Futures Program at Kopila Valley School, she and her team help young people discover their strengths and lead change in their communities." Bhandari expressed gratitude to the award organization and to Kopila Valley School. " I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share our work with the world . This would not have been possible without support from the team of Kopila Valley and Blinknow, and this recognition gives me and our team the motivation to keep doing even more work with our community." To learn more about Pratikshya Bhandari and the 2026 Herizon Awards, visit this link . ###
Bikrani Chaudhary Wins Women's Creativity in Rural Life Award
Tue, Nov 10, 2026 09:32 EST
The BlinkNow Foundation is very pleased to announce that Bikrani Chaudhary , a valued community partner, has won the Women's World Summit Foundation Prize for Creativity in Rural Life . A total of five laureates have been selected for 2026. Chaudhary has been recognized for her innovative work in local weaving, basketry, and offering economic opportunity to others . After completing a handicraft training course at the BlinkNow-funded Kopila Valley Women's Center , a program for vocational training and social support, she began weaving baskets in the style of her local Tharu community. She has continued to innovate more efficient weaving production techniques , to teach others, and now with her Patalganga Hastakala Samagri Udhyami Samuha Udhyag group, she is leading a team of nine women in weaving baskets to produce income and independence. The annual Creativity in Rural Life award honors creative and compassionate rural women leaders and rural women's groups from around the world, working and serving rural communities that demonstrate courage and exceptional commitment for the improvement of rural life. With Bikrani's win, BlinkNow has nominated winners for three years in a row. Other laureates this year include Beth Terry (Kenya), Nneoma Elechi Obasi (Nigeria), Jain Madhu (India), and Stella Sarukhanyan (Armenia). Most of the Laureates are involved, directly or indirectly, in working towards the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030. Baskets and mats woven by the Patalganga group are available in the U.S. at www.blinknow.org/shop . ###
Team Recovery and Toledo Municipal Court Launch Collaboration to Expand Access to Addiction Treatment
Tue, Nov 10, 2026 08:30 EST
New collaboration connects individuals in the justice system with residential addiction treatment Team Recovery is pleased to announce a new collaboration with Toledo Municipal Court , aimed at expanding access to addiction treatment for individuals involved in the justice system throughout Northwest Ohio. Through this partnership, Team Recovery will dedicate residential treatment beds for both men and women referred by Toledo Municipal Court, providing individuals with substance use disorders an opportunity to receive comprehensive treatment and recovery support as an alternative to incarceration. Team Recovery's Residential Treatment Program provides 24/7 care in a safe, supportive environment. Residential treatment typically lasts approximately 30 days, with access to a full continuum of care designed to support long-term recovery. Following residential treatment, individuals have the opportunity to continue their recovery journey through Team Recovery's outpatient services, Recovery Housing, and aftercare programming, ensuring ongoing support as they transition to greater independence and long-term sobriety. The collaboration officially launched Oct. 26, providing a unique opportunity to address substance use disorders among individuals involved in the justice system. By connecting individuals with treatment and continued recovery support, the collaboration aims to address underlying challenges that contribute to repeated involvement with the courts while promoting accountability and long-term recovery. "This collaboration is an important step in making treatment more accessible to individuals involved in the justice system. We know that lasting recovery requires more than a short stay in residential treatment. By providing a full continuum of care, we can help individuals build the skills, stability and support systems they need to move forward. We hope this collaboration serves as a model for other courts across Ohio, said Olivia Morrin, chief operations officer, Team Recovery." Toledo Municipal Court Administrator Lisa Falgiano added that "Access to comprehensive addiction treatment is imperative to reduce recidivism and support long-term recovery. Through this collaboration, Team Recovery and Toledo Municipal Court aim to break the cycle of substance use and justice system involvement by connecting individuals with meaningful, inpatient treatment and aftercare. Together, we seek to improve lives, strengthen families and create lasting positive change throughout our community." As Team Recovery continues to expand its partnerships, the organization hopes to bring this approach to additional municipal courts throughout Ohio, increasing access to treatment for individuals whose substance use has contributed to their involvement in the justice system. For more information, visit theteamrecovery.org . ### About Team Recovery Team Recovery Ohio, LLC is a Toledo-based behavioral health provider serving individuals throughout the state of Ohio. Dedicated to helping individuals overcome substance use disorders and build healthier, more fulfilling lives, Team Recovery offers a comprehensive continuum of care, including medical detoxification, residential treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, outpatient, and virtual services. Through individualized, evidence-based treatment, Team Recovery supports individuals in achieving long-term recovery. Additional services include individual therapy, case management, peer recovery support, mental health treatment, psychiatric care, and medication-assisted treatment. Rooted in compassion, connection, and a commitment to removing barriers to care, Team Recovery meets individuals where they are in their recovery journey, providing the treatment, resources, and ongoing support needed to build a strong foundation for lasting recovery. To learn more, visit www.theteamrecovery.org . A New Approach to an Old Problem: We Care for People
Dubai's Next AI Opportunity Isn't More Chatbots - It's Turning Business Data into Intelligence
Tue, Nov 10, 2026 08:11 EST
ResearchCollab Technologies, an AI consultancy that helps organisations adopt and govern AI systems, attended the Dubai AI Festival at Dubai World Trade Centre on 26 and 27 October. The event brought the emirate's AI ambitions to an international audience. For the consultancy, one area deserves more attention from businesses in the region: making better use of the information they already have. Chatbots and customer assistants are an obvious starting point for companies exploring AI. Their results are easy to see. Getting useful answers from a company's own records is a different challenge. A company might have customer feedback in one system, sales figures in another and market research buried in shared folders. Regulatory paperwork and competitor reports add to the pile. For businesses working in both Arabic and English, there is also the question of dealing with material in different languages. Finding time to go through it all is not easy. AI can search through these records and pick out details that might otherwise be missed. It can show which complaints keep coming up, highlight information that doesn't match and point staff back to the documents behind a finding. For Dubai businesses dealing with overseas customers and different regulatory requirements, having that information to hand could make a real difference. Imran Chughtai, Founder and CEO of ResearchCollab Technologies, said, "There is real ambition around AI in Dubai, and rightly so. But a chatbot is only as useful as the information behind it. Most organisations don't have a shortage of data. They have a shortage of time to read it properly. "The opportunity is to use AI to turn that data into intelligence leaders can trust, with the sources, the audit trail and the human judgement still intact." Trust and oversight were also on the agenda at the festival, which covered global AI governance and AI literacy. ResearchCollab Technologies helps organisations introduce AI systems and establish the checks needed in regulated and high-stakes environments. Automated analysis has its own problems. A summary might give the same weight to a casual blog post and an audited dataset, miss an unusual result or gloss over conflicting evidence. If the original sources cannot be found, there is little opportunity to check how a conclusion was reached. ResearchCollab Technologies uses source tracking and human review to help catch these problems before findings make their way into board papers. The consultancy advises businesses to start by looking at a decision they are struggling to make. What information would help? Does the business already have it, buried in reports, customer records or other documents? That is a practical place to test whether AI can make a difference, before investing in a larger project. For more information, visit researchcollabtech.com .
Sekond Launches Research Platform to Help Research Teams Recommend Alternatives With Confidence
Tue, Nov 10, 2026 07:30 EST
Sekond, an independent alternative investments intelligence platform for RIA research and wealth management teams, today launched its Research Platform, a new offering designed to help research teams recommend alternative investments in semi-liquid funds with confidence. As part of the Sekond alternative investments intelligence platform, the Research Platform provides research teams an easy way to find, monitor, and communicate about the semi-liquid funds on their product shelf. Over the past decade, semi-liquid funds investing in private credit, real estate, private equity and infrastructure have become one of the main ways wealth advisors bring alternatives to their clients. As the market grows, so does the work on both sides of the firm. Research teams must evaluate a crowded field of complex funds, monitor funds after they're approved, and educate advisors and clients about these products. However, most of the information available to research teams comes from the manager's own marketing materials or raw SEC filings. This process puts a burden on the research team to collect information when building an independent view on a fund. It's a structural barrier that hampers adoption and usage of alternatives among advisors and clients. Sekond's Research Platform resolves this bottleneck by bringing the industry's most comprehensive semi-liquid dataset with verified insights directly to the research team. The platform fits seamlessly into the modern workflow of the research team, helping them explore available products, build watchlists, and create product shelf lists. Research teams have access to hundreds of metrics on demand to build custom views that update automatically with real-time information. One-click exports into Excel and an MCP server make Sekond's Research Platform the perfect data layer for modern AI analysis. "Research teams put hours of serious work into deciding which semi-liquid funds their firm offers. Where firms need the most help is understanding when and how these funds should make their way into clients' portfolios," said Rasmus Goksor, Founder and CEO of Sekond. "Our Research Platform empowers research teams to make trusted, informed recommendations about these funds and educate advisors. When a client asks specific questions about returns, investment and origination strategy, or risk of a fund, research teams can support advisors with a clear answer that's backed by data." Sekond's intelligence platform was built specifically to address the challenges of research and advisory work of bringing alternative investments to more clients. It tracks more than 500 semi-liquid funds and their underlying holdings for the following: Returns: How does the fund stack up to other comparable funds and benchmarks? Illiquidity: When can a client get their money out? Risk: What could go wrong with the fund in the future? Transparency: What is the client actually investing in? Sekond will attend the RIA Edge Private Markets Conference, November 9-11, 2026, at the Four Seasons in Austin, Texas. To inquire about Advisor Enablement and the Sekond alternatives intelligence platform, email sales@sekond.co.
Oval Diamonds Close the Gap on Traditional Round Stones as Engagement Ring Preferences Shift
Tue, Nov 10, 2026 06:15 EST
Oval diamonds are becoming an increasingly popular choice for engagement rings, with their share of annual ring sales at 77 Diamonds rising from 11% in 2021 to 31% in 2026, according to the company's latest sales data. Meanwhile, the traditionally dominant round brilliant diamond has seen its share fall from 59% to 41% over the same period. The analysis examined 77 Diamonds' internal engagement ring sales data between 2021 and 2026, comparing the proportion of annual sales accounted for by the most prominent diamond shapes.* Although round brilliant diamonds remain the most popular choice, their dominance has steadily declined over the six-year period. Having accounted for almost three in five annual ring sales in 2021, rounds represented just over two in five by 2026. Their share has fallen every year since the start of the analysis. In contrast, oval diamonds have recorded year-on-year growth, increasing their share of annual sales from 11% in 2021 to 15% in 2022, 18% in 2023, 20% in 2024 and 24% in 2025, before reaching 31% in 2026 (so far). This data shows that the shift towards oval diamonds hit a high in 2026, when their share of sales increased by seven percentage points compared with the previous year. This represents the largest annual increase recorded for ovals across the period analysed. The popularity of the two shapes also stands out against other diamond cuts. No other shape has accounted for more than 7% of annual ring sales in any year, highlighting the continued importance of round and oval diamonds in customers' engagement ring choices. Tobias Kormind, Co-Founder of 77 Diamonds, commented: "Round brilliant diamonds have long been synonymous with engagement rings, so it's interesting to see how customer preferences are evolving. Oval diamonds offer a different aesthetic while retaining the brilliance, elegance and enduring appeal people look for when choosing an engagement ring. Their elongated shape can also create the illusion of longer, more slender fingers, while the option to set them vertically or horizontally offers greater scope for individual styling. What we're seeing from our customers is a sustained shift rather than a passing change in preference. Couples are increasingly looking for jewellery that reflects their own personal style and aesthetic, rather than simply opting for the most traditional choice. Oval diamonds lend themselves particularly well to this, offering a distinctive alternative to the classic round brilliant. This move towards more individual designs is also being influenced by high-profile celebrities, such as Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez, who have showcased distinctive and often vintage-inspired engagement ring styles, from Old Mine cuts to marquise designs. Ultimately, engagement rings are becoming an increasingly personal expression of individual taste, and diamond shape is an important part of that." The brilliance of the oval cut diamond Oval cut rings create t he illusion of a larger diamond due to the larger visible surface area compared to a round cut. Oval shape has a more elongated appearance on the finger, creating a flattering visual effect that draws the eye along the finger and giving the impression of longer, more slender fingers. Oval cut retains an elegant, timeless quality but introduces a more distinctive shape: a slightly different interpretation of that classic diamond aesthetic. Oval diamonds are versatile and work brilliantly in a number of settings, including solitaire, halo, and three-stone settings.
New Toddler Sense Franchisee Ready to Welcome Dundee and Perth Families
Tue, Nov 10, 2026 04:37 EST
Brooke Nelson is swapping her role in early years settings for a business of her own, having bought the Toddler Sense franchise covering Dundee and Perth . She takes over on 1 December 2026, after five years working with young children. Running her own business had been on Brooke's mind for some time, but she wanted to build it around work she enjoyed. When she saw the Toddler Sense opportunity advertised on social media, she decided to investigate it - and soon knew she couldn't let the chance pass her by. Brooke is now learning the practical side of running a franchise, so she can hit the ground running this December. One of her first priorities will be getting to know the families who already attend classes in Dundee and Perth. She is keen to keep the things children and parents enjoy about their sessions, while giving new families a chance to join. "Working with children has been a big part of my life for the past five years, and I couldn't see myself doing something completely different," said Brooke. "I'd always wanted my own business, and when I saw this opportunity I thought, why not? I know there will be plenty to learn, but I'm looking forward to it. Most of all, I want the families who come to our classes to enjoy themselves and feel comfortable bringing their little ones along." Toddler Sense runs activity sessions for young children, with play, movement and exploration built into each class. Brooke likes that children can have fun while also learning and developing. She wants to offer families a friendly place to spend time together, rather than simply another activity to fit into the week. Brooke is also planning to offer a range of discounts following the takeover, giving families the chance to try a class. "I can't wait to welcome you and all your little ones. I want everyone to feel part of the Toddler Sense family," she said. For more information, please visit www.toddlersense.com/dundee .