SGS Summarizes California Proposition 65 Settlements for Listed Chemicals in Consumer Products
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 11:55 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 097.26, highlighting multiple California Proposition (Prop 65) settlements reached involving a range of consumer goods containing listed chemicals. Passed overwhelmingly by California residents in November 1986, the state's Prop 65 is the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, which requires the state to publish a list of chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects or reproductive harm. The list has evolved since its first publication to include approximately 900 chemicals. A Prop 65 settlement is a consent agreement between the parties named in the settlement and any party not named in the settlement is not bound by its terms. Clear and reasonable warnings must be provided before companies can knowingly and intentionally expose anyone to a chemical listed under Prop 65. Without a permitted exemption, businesses have 12 months to comply once a chemical is listed, and failure may result in lawsuits and civil penalties of up to USD 2,500 per violation per day. A recent update to the requirements for short-form warnings has stipulated that the name of at least one chemical must be included, beginning January 2028. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 097.26 includes further information on the multiple settlements as well as details concerning cadmium limits in earrings. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 097.26 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 California Proposition 65: Chemical Reformulation in Consumer 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
AMA Foundation Celebrates Founding Members of the Don Lehmann Leadership Circle
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 11:27 EDT
AMA Foundation Celebrates Founding Members of the Don Lehmann Leadership Circle New annual giving society honors Don Lehmann's legacy and invests in the students, faculty, and professionals shaping the future of marketing Chicago, IL -The American Marketing Association (AMA) Foundation today announced the public launch of the Don Lehmann Leadership Circle , a new annual giving society recognizing donors who make generous annual contributions in support of the Foundation's work. The Circle was formally introduced at the AMA Summer Academic Conference in Denver, July 24-26, 2026, where its inaugural members were publicly recognized. The Leadership Circle honors Don Lehmann, whose more than 200 articles and books, founding role with Marketing Letters, and decades of service on the AMA Board of Directors and AMA Foundation Board of Advisors set a standard of generosity, mentorship, and community the Circle is designed to carry forward. "We are honored to recognize Don Lehmann in this meaningful way. Don was a pioneering scholar, a marketing visionary, an accomplished economist, and an influential coach who believed in mentoring the community he was a part of. The Foundation is pleased to convene members of the AMA community in his honor to continue his work and nurture the next generation of marketing leaders," said Bennie F. Johnson, CEO of the AMA . Members who pledge $1,000-$5,000 annually are recognized on the AMA website, in the AMA Annual Report, and at the AMA Summer Academic Conference each year, and are invited to two annual gatherings featuring impact updates from the AMA CEO and AMA Foundation Chair. Contributions support the Foundation's people-focused strategy, including the Inspiring Next Gen Fund, the Innovators in Marketing Education and Breakthrough Marketing Research Funds, and the Marketing Excellence in Action Fund. Supporters interested in joining the Don Lehmann Leadership Circle can find information on AMA.org . The AMA Foundation is especially grateful to its Inaugural Members, whose early commitment gave the Leadership Circle its foundation before it launched publicly, and whose names now stand as the first of what will be a lasting community of leaders. Inaugural Members of the Leadership Circle: Hami Vo Arrington Peter Barber Jennifer Bell Leonard Berry James Bettman Neeraj Bharadwaj Mike Brady Melissa G. Bublitz Dr. William Cron Andrea and Doug Dixon Barbara Eberlein and Jerry Wind O.C. & Linda Ferrell Gary L Frazier Mary Gilly Dhruv Grewal Michael Haenlein Kelly Hewett Kera and Bennie F. Johnson Kevin and Punam Keller John Kennedy Myoung Kim Ajay K. Kohli Praveen K. Kopalle V Kumar (VK) Bob Leone Debbie MacInnis Stephen Brent May Christine Moorman Alex Nikdel Amy L. Ostrom Anita Pansari A. "Parsu" Parasuraman Atul Parvatiyar Bill Pearce Connie Pechmann Rebeca Perren Kay Peters Linda L. Price William Qualls Brooke Reavey Aric Rindfleisch Maura Scott and Martin Mende Jagdish and Madhu Sheth Shrihari Sridhar and Akshaya Sreenivasan David Stewart Robin Tooms Eric Van Steenburg and Julie Walters Matthew Weingarden & Chris Hofstetter Tiffany Barnett White Kim Whitler Karen Winterich Valarie Zeithaml Anonymous ###
RSPO Launches New Guidance to Leverage Sustainable Palm Oil Certification for IFRS® Sustainability Disclosure Standards
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 08:49 EDT
The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) has released a guidance document, "Leveraging RSPO Principles and Criteria for IFRS® Sustainability Disclosure Standards" . This new resource supports certified sustainable palm oil producers to align their sustainability practices with the IFRS S1 and IFRS S2 disclosure standards that serve as the global framework for reporting sustainability-related financial information. As more than 30 jurisdictions, representing around 60% of global GDP, move towards adoption of the IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards (IFRS SDS), companies are increasingly required to disclose how sustainability-related risks and opportunities affect their financial position and prospects. 1 This resource provides a practical pathway for palm oil producers to respond to these requirements by leveraging their existing compliance with the RSPO Principles and Criteria (P&C), without duplicating efforts or creating parallel systems. Informing investor-relevant disclosures: A four-step approach Certification and the IFRS SDS serve different purposes. This guidance, developed with support from PwC Malaysia, provides a practical bridge between operational sustainability practices and financial disclosure expectations by helping members translate certification-related topics, metrics, and evidence to inform investor-relevant disclosures. It sets out a four-step approach to IFRS SDS-aligned reporting, guiding RSPO members on applicability, reporting boundaries, identification of sustainability-related risks and opportunities, and links to financial performance. It also includes seven practical examples, illustrating how the RSPO P&C requirements and implementation evidence can inform disclosures across key sustainability topics, from ethical conduct and legal compliance to environmental protection and worker health and safety. Beyond growers, the guidance document also supports financial institutions by helping banks, insurers, and investors understand how palm oil sustainability issues, such as labour disputes and traceability gaps, can translate into financial risks, impacts, and opportunities, enabling clearer risk profiling and more informed financing decisions. Joseph D' Cruz, RSPO Chief Executive Officer , said: "As sustainability reporting becomes an integral pillar of financial performance, this guidance bridges certification and disclosure, providing RSPO members with a practical framework to demonstrate sustainability performance in ways that resonate with global capital markets. In line with the growing importance of sustainability disclosures in financing and investment decision-making processes, this guidance illustrates how RSPO Principles and Criteria practices can complement an organisation's strategy and risk assessment processes. Andrew Chan, Partner, Sustainability Leader at PwC Malaysia , said: "This guidance responds to the broader shift towards measuring sustainability through a financial lens, with the adoption of the IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards (IFRS S1 and IFRS S2). For RSPO growers, this creates an opportunity to demonstrate how sustainability practices contribute to business resilience as well as value creation - building investor confidence for the long term." Importantly, the guidance also reflects RSPO's longer term interest in progressively strengthening linkages with sustainability disclosure frameworks. As disclosure expectations continue to evolve, RSPO intends to further explore how certification-related data metrics and assurance processes can support broader and more integrated sustainability disclosures in the future. The Guidance Document can be downloaded here . For more information, visit www.rspo.org 1 IFRS Foundation, ISSB Podcast February 2025
BlinkNow Foundation Launches STEPS Project to Strengthen Public Schools in Nepal
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 08:00 EDT
The BlinkNow Foundation has announced the official launch of Strengthening Public Schools Through Partnerships (STEPS) , a new initiative serving two public schools in the nearby Lekbesi Municipality. The launch marks a major milestone in BlinkNow's commitment to elevating education quality across Nepal through strategic partnerships and innovative community models. Drawing on lessons learned from its flagship Kopila Valley School in Surkhet, BlinkNow is actively expanding avenues to share its proven educational and development practices. Implemented in collaboration with local partner SAC Nepal , the STEPS project leverages public-private partnerships to enhance student learning outcomes, boost enrollment, and promote healthier lifestyles. Key activities include teacher training, direct student support, school nutrition programs, and essential infrastructure upgrades. Addressing a vital need for public education reform in the region, the project officially kicked off with a community meeting in Surkhet on July 6, 2026. The gathering brought together local government officials, school management committees, principals, parent-teacher association leaders, and representatives from both BlinkNow and SAC Nepal. Together, stakeholders discussed program accountability, goals, and planned activities, uniting around a shared commitment to the project's success. Dr. SP Kalaunee, Country Representative for BlinkNow, reaffirmed the foundation's dedication to providing both technical expertise and financial support-aligning with its vision of a world where every child is safe, educated, and loved. "The mutual commitment between the Foundation and municipal leadership sets the stage for meaningful, lasting improvements in public education within the community," said Dr. Kalaunee. Using insights gained from these initial pilot schools, BlinkNow plans to scale the STEPS initiative to additional institutions across the region, further amplifying its positive impact on public education in Nepal. ###
RN JobForce Launches AI Powered Recruitment Platform to Transform the UK Hiring Experience
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 07:00 EDT
RN JobForce has officially launched its innovative recruitment platform, bringing together artificial intelligence and human connection to help job seekers stand out and employers recruit with greater confidence. Built in response to the growing challenges facing today's recruitment market, RN JobForce offers a smarter approach to hiring by giving candidates the tools to showcase their full potential while helping employers identify the right talent more efficiently. Despite rapid advances in technology, recruitment has remained largely unchanged for many years. Candidates often submit dozens of applications without receiving meaningful feedback, while employers spend countless hours reviewing CVs that rarely tell the full story of an individual. RN JobForce was created to bridge this gap. "Our vision has always been to put people first," said the Founder of RN JobForce. "Artificial intelligence should enhance recruitment, not replace the human element. We've created a platform that empowers job seekers to present themselves with confidence while giving employers better insight into the people behind every application." The platform introduces a range of intelligent features designed to improve every stage of the recruitment journey, including AI powered CV optimisation, interview preparation, personalised job matching, career guidance, video introductions and application management tools. Together, these features help candidates increase their visibility while enabling employers to make faster, more informed hiring decisions. RN JobForce believes the future of recruitment is not about replacing recruiters or removing human interaction. Instead, it is about using technology to eliminate inefficiencies and create stronger connections between talented individuals and forward thinking organisations. The company is also committed to addressing some of the most common frustrations experienced across the recruitment industry, including limited employer feedback, overwhelming application volumes and hiring decisions based solely on traditional CVs. As the employment market continues to evolve, RN JobForce aims to become one of the UK's leading recruitment technology platforms by creating a hiring experience that is fairer, smarter and more inclusive for everyone involved. With a people first philosophy built around innovation, integrity and opportunity, RN JobForce is positioning itself as more than a recruitment platform. It is building a community where ambition meets opportunity and where both employers and candidates can achieve better outcomes. Job seekers can create a professional profile, access AI driven career tools and connect with opportunities that match their skills and aspirations. Employers can streamline their hiring process, reduce time to hire and discover high quality candidates with greater accuracy. To learn more or to begin your recruitment journey, visit https://rnjobforce.co.uk .
Summer Hydration Isn't Just About Drinking More Water
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 06:39 EDT
Most people don't really question the idea that summer hydration simply means drinking more water. It's one of those bits of advice that gets repeated so often it barely feels like advice anymore. Heatwave? Drink water. Feeling tired? Drink water. Travelling? Drink more water. It makes sense on the surface. When it's hot, you sweat more. When you sweat more, you lose fluid - so the answer must be to replace it. But that's usually where the conversation stops. What's interesting is how often people still feel off even when they are drinking more than usual. The reason? Hydration is not just about water: it's also about minerals, or lack thereof. Magnesium, potassium, sodium and iodine don't come up much in casual hydration advice, but they are behind a lot of the processes people associate with feeling energised, alert and physically steady. When they're present in regular amounts through food, most people don't think about them at all. When routines change, they can become more noticeable simply because the system is under more fluctuation. So, how does one replenish on minerals? Through food and drinks, certainly - and Irish Sea Moss is a powerful ally. Irish Sea Moss naturally contains minerals and trace elements that are already part of normal dietary intake, just in a more concentrated, wholefood form. Testing carried out on The Moss Way's Irish Sea Moss has shown naturally occurring levels of minerals including magnesium, potassium, zinc and iodine, alongside B vitamins and soluble fibre. These are not isolated compounds added in afterwards, but part of the plant's own composition. Harry Morgan, founder of The Moss Way, said, "People have always been told to drink more water in summer, and that's still important," he said. "But there is more to it than just water. When someone says they feel drained in hot weather, it's not always just about replenishing fluids - and your body knows it what it needs. "That is why interest in mineral-rich foods rises during summer months without necessarily being driven by formal guidance. People don't usually set out to 'optimise hydration': they just notice what feels missing and adjust gradually." For some, that means electrolyte drinks during exercise. For others, it's more food-based support built into daily routines. Sea moss tends to sit in the latter category - added to smoothies, taken as a gel, or used in simpler daily habits that don't require much thought. Hydration still matters - that part hasn't changed. The question now is less about how much water people are drinking, and more about why some of them still feel out of sync even when they're doing exactly what they've been told. For more information, visit www.themossway.co.uk .
SGS in Finland granted Notified Body status under EU Battery Regulation
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 04:27 EDT
GS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is delighted to announce that its team in Helsinki, SGS Fimko Oy, has been designated as a Notified Body (NB) under the EU Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542. This designation enables SGS to deliver conformity assessment services for batteries and accumulators in line with EU regulatory requirements. The notification also covers procedures under Module D1, covering quality assurance of production processes, and Module G, covering unit verification. Markus Ahvenus, Product Certification Director, commented: "Being granted Notified Body status under the EU Battery Regulation strengthens our position as a leading conformity assessment provider both in Finland and globally. We are proud to support customers with comprehensive services that facilitate access to the European market." This milestone reinforces the ongoing expansion of SGS's global network, ensuring customers benefit from extensive expertise, harmonized approaches and high-quality services across key markets. SGS now holds 12 Notified Body designations in Finland across multiple regulatory frameworks, including medical devices, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and radio equipment. In addition, FINAS-accredited quality system certification services are available. SGS battery testing, inspection and certification services include safety and performance testing, supply chain audits and regulatory support, helping organizations achieve faster, more streamlined approvals, harmonized test methodologies and consistently high-quality reports. This supports faster market access while reducing the risk of delays and non-compliance. For further information, contact: Heidi Vähäkuopus Battery Notified Body Manager Connectivity & Products Tel: +358 41 7317081
Hydrogen on Demand Technology Offers New Energy Security Option as Europe Faces Winter Gas Pressure
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 04:01 EDT
Kinetic7 Clean Gas Technology Could Support Energy Resilience for Commercial, Off-grid and Emergency Use A clean-energy technology company headquartered in Abu Dhabi says hydrogen gas produced on demand, at the point of use, could help strengthen energy security as Europe and the UK face renewed concerns over gas storage, supply resilience and winter prices. Gas storage across Europe has fallen to historically low levels for late July, raising fears that the region could enter the winter with reserves well below the five-year average. The pressure has intensified scrutiny of gas supply routes, LNG competition and the UK's limited storage capacity, making energy security a renewed priority for policymakers, industry and households. Australian technology entrepreneur and philanthropist Rick Parish believes hydrogen-on-demand systems can play a major role in future-proofing clean gas supplies, reducing reliance on stored or transported fuel and improving resilience for communities and businesses exposed to volatile energy markets. Parish, the founder of Kinetic7 Technologies, a deep-tech company headquartered in Abu Dhabi with offices in Australia, the US and Europe, has developed proprietary technology to create hydrogen gas on demand at the point of use. Conventional hydrogen production can require large-scale investment, extensive infrastructure and storage, whilst hydrogen stored under pressure requires careful handling. Kinetic7's technology is designed to remove much of that cost and infrastructure by producing hydrogen only when it is needed. Originally conceived for humanitarian use in developing and Commonwealth nations, as well as for disaster management and resilience, the company has developed two portable cooking stoves, Nomad™ and Tribe™, which can be rapidly deployed into disaster zones when critical infrastructure and power supplies are disrupted. The portable stoves use water and electrolysis to create hydrogen gas on demand. They require only a small amount of electricity and can be powered by solar panels, a small onboard battery or a mains connection. The company has now adapted its portable technology into a commercial unit, HODBox™ (Hydrogen On Demand Box), which can be used by restaurants, hotels and large-scale catering operations to provide clean gas for cooking. Kinetic7 says the hydrogen produced on demand can be delivered at a fraction of the cost of current natural gas supplies, making the technology a potentially attractive proposition for hospitality and catering businesses hit by rising energy costs. Parish's company is also working on a prototype for the residential market, which it believes could be a significant development for domestic energy supply. Kinetic7 intends to target off-grid households first, following a similar model to the way Elon Musk's Starlink service was initially positioned for users not connected to mainstream broadband and telephony providers. Across the UK and Europe, millions of rural and off-grid households remain dependent on heating oil, LPG, biomass, solid fuels or electricity for heat, hot water and cooking. In the UK alone, off-gas-grid homes rely on alternatives such as electricity, heating oil and LPG, while EU households continue to use natural gas as a major source of residential energy. The residential HODBox™ would be attached to the side of a property and connected to solar panels and/or the mains supply. Because the unit uses only small amounts of electricity, Kinetic7 says it could provide households with clean gas for hot water, ambient heating and cooking while reducing reliance on stored fossil fuels and making a positive impact on carbon reduction. Rick Parish, founder and Chairman of Kinetic7 Technologies, said: "Europe's current gas challenge shows why energy resilience can no longer depend solely on centralised infrastructure, imported fuel and large-scale storage. Hydrogen produced at the point of use gives governments, businesses and households another route to clean, secure and deployable energy." Parish's mission was shaped by personal tragedy and humanitarian work. Following the death of his four-year-old son, Elliot, from brain cancer, Parish says his work in Africa showed him how many families still cook on primitive wood-burning stoves, exposing women and children to household air pollution. Each year, household air pollution directly causes 3.2 million premature deaths due to continued reliance on wood-burning stoves and other polluting fuels, which also contributes to deforestation and climate impact. Parish added: "Energy security is now being shaped by multiple pressures at once: geopolitics, conflict and uncertainty around strategic supply routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, ageing infrastructure, limited storage, competition for LNG, extreme weather, rising demand and the challenge of integrating more renewable power into national grids. No single technology can solve those pressures alone, but decentralised hydrogen-on-demand can form part of a broader resilience strategy by creating clean gas where and when it is needed, rather than relying entirely on long supply chains and large centralised storage." Security analysts increasingly warn that energy supply is also exposed to so-called "grey zone" threats: hostile activity that falls below the threshold of conventional war but can still damage nation states through cyberattacks, sabotage, disinformation, surveillance and disruption to critical infrastructure. For governments, that makes resilience not only an economic or environmental challenge, but a national-security priority.
Growing Demand for Plastic Pallets Means Businesses Must Rethink Handling Equipment Pallet Trucks UK Warns
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 03:12 EDT
Demand for reusable plastic pallets and containers continues to grow steadily across the UK, as businesses look to reduce waste and move towards more circular, sustainable supply chains. Plastic pallets are increasingly seen as a durable alternative to traditional timber, offering a longer working life and consistent dimensions that suit automated and semi-automated warehouse systems. Pallet Trucks UK says that while the sustainability benefits of the switch are clear, businesses making the move need to think carefully about the handling equipment being used alongside it - such as pallet trucks , stackers and lift tables . Plastic pallets are generally heavier than their timber equivalents and often have a different profile underneath, both of which can affect how safely and efficiently they can be moved with a standard pallet truck or stacker. The company regularly hears from warehouses who have invested in reusable plastic pallets without first checking whether their existing equipment is suited to the change - leading to slower handling, increased wear on machinery, or in some cases, safety concerns around load stability. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said, "Switching to plastic pallets is a sensible move for a lot of businesses, and we understand why it's happening. But it isn't simply a case of swapping one pallet for another and carrying on as before. The weight difference alone can catch people out, particularly if a fleet of pallet trucks was originally specified with lighter timber pallets in mind. "We'd always encourage businesses to think about their material handling equipment at the same time as they're planning a pallet switch, rather than treating it as an afterthought. It's a straightforward thing to check, but it gets overlooked surprisingly often." Under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations, businesses have a responsibility to make sure the loads their staff are moving, and the equipment they're using to move them, are properly matched. "A heavier pallet that hasn't been accounted for is exactly the kind of change that can quietly increase risk without anyone noticing until something goes wrong," Chesworth added. "The good news is that this is usually an easy problem to fix. In most cases it simply means specifying the right load capacity and wheel type from the outset, rather than assuming existing kit will cope." For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
Winn-Dixie helps Florida families stretch back-to-school budgets with everyday savings
Wed, Jul 29, 2026 16:46 EDT
As Florida families prepare for a new school year, Winn-Dixie is helping customers make the most of their budgets with everyday savings on groceries, school lunch essentials and household necessities during Florida's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday and beyond. According to the National Retail Federation, affordability remains a top priority for families this school year, with nearly half of shoppers planning to purchase only the essentials needed for back-to-school. Winn-Dixie continues to offer convenient, value-focused shopping options designed to help customers save on every trip. Customers can find additional savings through: One-stop shopping for school supplies, groceries and lunchbox essentials in a single trip. Price Hold savings on more than 1,000 grocery and household items each season, helping families better manage everyday expenses. Affordable Own Brand products that save customers an average of 20% compared to national brands. Winn-Dixie Rewards , featuring digital coupons, percent-back offers and points that can be redeemed for future grocery savings. Convenient Winn-Dixie grocery delivery through Amazon , making it easier for busy families to shop from home. New Amazon grocery delivery customers can save $10 on orders of $60 or more through Aug. 1. Additionally, Aug. 2 through Aug. 22, all customers will receive $15 off Amazon grocery delivery orders of $75 or more. With school schedules returning and household expenses increasing, Winn-Dixie remains committed to providing fresh, affordable groceries and convenient shopping options that help families save throughout the back-to-school season.
Tasmanian Tiger®'s TT Modular Medic Combat Pack 18 Earns Silver Rating in NTOA's Member Tested and Recommended Program
Wed, Jul 29, 2026 14:00 EDT
Independent field testers scored the modular trauma pack 4.43 out of 5, praising its rugged build and mission-specific configurability for tactical medic response. Tasmanian Tiger®, a tactical nylon line of products distributed exclusively for the US market by Proforce Equipment, Inc., announced today that its TT Modular Medic Combat Pack 18 has been tested and recommended by the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) Member Tested and Recommended Program (MTRP), earning an overall score of 4.43 out of 5, placing it in the program's Silver tier. Four NTOA-affiliated field testers, including active-duty law enforcement personnel from Vermont, Nebraska, California, and New Jersey, evaluated the 18-liter pack across categories including design, durability, storage, versatility, and ease of use. "I love this bag. It arrived, and I thought it was going to be too small for my equipment, but to my surprise it fit everything I wanted to put in it," wrote the California-based tester, who gave the pack an individual score of 4.53. "I have thrown this around on search warrants, it has fallen out of my vehicle, and it has held up great so far. I highly recommend this medical pack." A Nebraska-based tester, who scored the pack 4.4, pointed to its build quality and adaptability across roles. "The overall construction and quality are very high. The materials are rugged, thick, and durable to withstand abuse in the field. [The pack] is recommended for any SWAT Medic or operator that carries specialized equipment in the field, is looking for a high-quality and durable pack for use in the field, and is looking for an extremely modular, user-specific layout tailored to them." The TT Modular Medic Combat Pack 18 is an 18-liter tactical emergency medic backpack built from Cordura® fabric with YKK zippers and Woojin plastic hardware. A circumferential zipper opens the main compartment to the side, and robust carry handles on three sides support rapid extraction and multi-directional deployment. Inside, two removable panels of lightweight, sturdy Tegris® material with fastening accessories organize the main compartment, alongside a removable pouch with a transparent lid, a long color-coded zippered pouch, a removable IV bag pouch, and an insert pocket for patient assessment cards. MOLLE hook-and-loop surfaces on the interior allow for near-limitless modularity, while three front pockets, each with distinct internal compartments, feature exterior hook-and-loop surfaces for labeling with hook-and-loop strips or snap-light inserts. A compression sleeve attached to the bottom of the pack accommodates a rescue sling (sold separately). Removable, air-mesh-padded shoulder straps allow the pack to convert for use with a plate carrier, and laser-cut mounting points on each side carry up to four tourniquets. A tester from New Jersey, who scored the pack 4.46, highlighted its construction and adaptability. "I found the bag extremely versatile and comfortable to carry. Overall, I would absolutely recommend this bag." The TT Modular Medic Combat Pack weighs 4.25 lbs./1.93kg and measures 18 x 10 x 6.7 in. / 45.75 x 25.4 x 17 cm. It is available in red, black, olive, and coyote for an MSRP of $419. Multicam is available at an MSRP of $499. "Recognition from an organization as respected in the law enforcement community as the NTOA reflects the standard we hold ourselves to with every product we bring to market," said Richard Lewis, President and CEO of Proforce Equipment, Inc. "Our medic carry systems are designed and tested to keep pace with what operators actually need in the field, and this rating from NTOA validates that approach." The MTRP has evaluated more than 3,000 products in real-world conditions since 2003 and is widely regarded by law enforcement agencies as a key resource in tactical equipment purchasing decisions. Results are shared with the law enforcement community through The Tactical Edge magazine, NTOA's online database, its e-newsletters, and directly with manufacturers. Under NTOA's MTRP rating scale, products scoring 3.00-3.99 receive the standard MTRP logo, 4.00-4.49 receive the Silver logo, and 4.50-5.00 receive the Gold logo. Check out the new 2026 product line digital catalog here. Click to see the Tasmanian Tiger Full Product Line Vol. 5 digital catalog here. Find a local dealer here for any of the exciting Tasmanian Tiger products. Stay in the conversation by following us on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram . All sales inquiries can be directed to tt@tasmaniantigerusa.com .
Inkster Housing Commission Completes HUD Recovery Agreement, Marks Major Milestone in Agency Turnaround
Wed, Jul 29, 2026 10:45 EDT
The Inkster Housing Commission (IHC) has officially completed the requirements of its Recovery Agreement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), marking a significant milestone in the agency's ongoing transformation and commitment to serving residents. In a letter dated July 20, 2026, HUD confirmed that the Inkster Housing Commission successfully fulfilled the required terms of the Recovery Agreement executed on March 26, 2024. Acting Executive Director Sheena Wells credited the organization's culture and teamwork for the accomplishment. "This current team has made history. With hard work, long days, and communication, we are beyond thrilled to have been part of the status change resulting in a positive IHC. I am truly proud of our team, our culture and what we continue to accomplish" The Recovery Agreement established a series of performance benchmarks designed to strengthen the Housing Commission's operations, improve compliance and restore long-term organizational stability. HUD acknowledged that IHC met those requirements and recognized the agency's efforts to improve its performance while encouraging the Housing Commission to sustain its progress in the years ahead. The completion of the Recovery Agreement follows another significant milestone earlier this year, when the Inkster Housing Commission earned HUD's highest NSPIRE health and safety rating of A . Together, these achievements demonstrate IHC's continued focus on operational excellence, responsible stewardship and expanding access to safe, quality affordable housing throughout the community. Greg Gillette, chair of the Inkster Housing Commission Board of Commissioners, said the accomplishment reflects the organization's long-term commitment to rebuilding trust and strengthening services for residents. "This achievement reflects the dedication, resilience and accountability of our staff, board and partners who remained focused on doing the work necessary to strengthen the Housing Commission. While we are proud to reach this important milestone, we recognize it is just one step in our continued commitment to providing quality housing and exceptional service to the residents of Inkster." The Housing Commission remains focused on building on this momentum through continued operational improvements, responsible stewardship and investments that enhance the quality of life for the residents and families it serves. For more information, please call (313) 561-2600 or visit our website www.inksterhousing.org .
Research by Las Vegas Travel Expert Reveals Americans Are Taking More Bucket-List Trips Than Ever
Wed, Jul 29, 2026 09:00 EDT
A few years ago, the phrase "bucket-list trip" usually meant something distant. It was the safari somebody hoped to take one day; the dream holiday that stayed pinned to a vision board; the incredible journey people talked about over dinner - never got around to booking. That is now changing, as new research from Las Vegas travel expert and PCK Travel suggests Americans are becoming far less willing to postpone the trips they really want to take. Rather than treating these trips as distant ambitions, many people appear to be moving them much closer to the present. The destinations they once talked about visiting "someday" are increasingly becoming next year's holiday, next summer's celebration or the trip already being discussed in the family group chat. One theme came up again and again throughout the research: people are placing greater importance on what they do with their money, not just what they buy with it. Italy continues to top the list of dream destinations for Americans, closely followed by Japan. Where Italy is often imagined through long lunches in sun-drenched piazzas, winding historic streets and food that feels inseparable from place and culture, Japan offers something entirely different - glowing cityscapes, quiet traditions that run deep beneath the surface, and a world that feels both modern and timeless at once. Sitting in third place is Cancún, a destination that offers the kind of trip many travelers are looking for right now: easy access, reliable sunshine, luxury resorts, beautiful beaches and the chance to switch off without spending days getting there. Rounding out the top ten are Paris, London, Spain's Mediterranean coast, the Greek Islands, Hawai'i, Mexico City and St. Maarten. Collectively, they paint a picture of what Americans are looking for from travel today. Some offer history and culture, others sunshine and relaxation. Some promise adventure, while others are simply places people have always wanted to experience for themselves. PCK Travel Founder Jason Kuntzelman believes this is a mark of a general change in priorities among travelers. "There was a time when people would wait for retirement to take certain trips," he said. "Now there's much more of a feeling that if you can do something meaningful today, why wait twenty years? People still care about getting value for money, of course, but they're increasingly putting their money into experiences they'll remember rather than things they'll forget." The findings did not come to any surprise to PCK Travel, as it is based in Las Vegas - and few cities understand anticipation better. People rarely visit because they need to; they visit because they want to celebrate something, escape routine for a few days or simply experience somewhere that feels different from everyday life. That same appetite for memorable experiences is now showing up in travel plans across the country. In many cases, there is a specific reason behind the booking. A milestone birthday. A wedding anniversary. Children finally reaching an age where a dream family trip feels possible. Sometimes there is no occasion at all beyond the feeling that enough time has passed and the trip should stop being postponed. The research suggests that more Americans are reaching that conclusion than ever before. "People want something to look forward to," Kuntzelman added. "The destinations may differ, but the motivation is often the same: people want to make memories while they can do it. And really, who can blame them?" For more information, visit www.pcktravel.com .
Grande Luxe Collection Launches Sale or Return Partnership for Independent Boutiques
Wed, Jul 29, 2026 05:35 EDT
Luxury occasionwear brand Grande Luxe Collection has launched a new retail partnership programme to help independent fashion boutiques stock premium occasionwear without the financial risk traditionally associated with introducing a new brand. The initiative, built around a Sale or Return model, comes at a time when independent retailers are contending with rising costs and increasingly cautious spending on new inventory. Grande Luxe founder Sandra Morayo Eniade said the programme was developed in direct response to those pressures. "Independent boutiques are operating in an increasingly challenging retail environment, with rising costs and the financial risk of investing in new brands," said Eniade. "Many boutiques are interested in offering something new and exclusive but understandably hesitate because of the upfront investment required. Our Sale or Return model allows retailers to introduce a new luxury brand without tying up valuable cash flow." Under the scheme, Grande Luxe Collection works with each boutique individually to select a range that suits its customer base and existing product offering. Garments are supplied without any upfront purchase, with boutiques retaining a 25% commission on every sale made in-store. Any stock that remains unsold at the end of an agreed trial period is simply returned to the brand. Grande Luxe Collection's range of gowns and occasion dresses is aimed at women shopping for weddings, race days, evening events and galas, and sits apart from what is widely available on the high street. "It's designed to be a straightforward, low-risk partnership that allows retailers to test customer demand before considering longer-term wholesale orders," Eniade added. "It's an opportunity to introduce fresh luxury fashion while offering customers exclusive pieces they are unlikely to see elsewhere." The brand is now inviting independent boutiques to apply to join the programme, with a particular focus on affluent areas including London, the South East, Cheshire and the Midlands, alongside other key fashion destinations across the UK. Rather than pursuing rapid, large-scale rollout, Grande Luxe Collection says it intends to prioritise quality over quantity, working with a select number of retailers over the next 12 months. "We're looking to build long-term relationships with retailers whose customers appreciate premium occasionwear," said Eniade. "As the brand continues to grow, we're hoping to expand our retail network further - but always with the right partners." For more information, please visit https://www.grandeluxecollection.com .
Rising Temporary Hiring Means Warehouses Must Think About Equipment as Well as Training Provider Shares
Wed, Jul 29, 2026 04:44 EDT
New figures on the UK job market show temporary hiring has risen for a fourth consecutive month, with permanent hiring also showing signs of stabilising. The trend points to businesses across the country bringing in extra warehouse and logistics staff to manage growing demand, ahead of what is expected to be a busy peak trading period later in the year. Pallet Truck Shop says that while most businesses are alert to the need for proper manual handling training when bringing in temporary staff, far fewer think about whether the equipment those staff will be using is appropriate for someone unfamiliar with the site. The company says this gap is a common and easily overlooked source of risk during busy hiring periods. Temporary and seasonal staff are often asked to get up to speed quickly, learning new processes, unfamiliar layouts and equipment they may never have used before, all while operations are running at a faster pace than usual. According to Pallet Truck Shop, equipment that is intuitive to use safely, with clear controls and manageable handling, can make a meaningful difference to how quickly new starters become productive and how safely they work in those first few weeks. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Truck Shop, said: "Every year we see the same pattern. Businesses take on temporary staff to cope with rising demand, training gets sorted, and then everyone assumes the equipment already on site will simply do the job. But someone who has never used a pallet truck , stacker or table trucks before doesn't move, lift or steer in the same way as an experienced operator - and that's exactly the point where accidents tend to happen." Simple things like choosing equipment with lighter steering, clear load limits, and features that make correct use obvious rather than optional, all help a new starter get up to speed safely. It's a lot easier to build good habits from day one than to correct bad ones once they've settled in. "With hiring picking up again, now is a sensible time for businesses to actually look at what their seasonal staff will be using, rather than assuming existing kit is good enough. It's a small thing to check, but it can make a real difference over a busy few months." To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
Italy Cuts Diesel Fuel Duty. Why doesn't the New Chancellor do the same?
Wed, Jul 29, 2026 04:30 EDT
FairFuelUK calls on John Healey to cut Fuel Duty now to stimulate the economy, slow inflation and incentivise business. Howard Cox, Founder of FairFuelUK, says, "This fiscally short-sighted Government, under Andy Burnham, and following Keir Starmer's tenure, continues to show a deliberate reluctance to support drivers or ease business transport costs by cutting Fuel Duty. Other European countries have recognised the critical role of fuel prices in containing inflation and supporting economic activity. Why does Labour refuse to do the same? The answer is clear: in Labour's political DNA, the motorist remains an easy source of revenue rather than the commercial heartbeat of the economy. Their approach is firmly anti-driver and risks holding back recovery, when targeted relief could help both households and businesses." Background Italy (as of 28 July 2026) temporarily cut diesel taxes and excises by the equivalent of about 17 euro cents per litre (14 cents on the excise plus the VAT effect) until 6 August, focusing only on diesel because its price had risen more sharply; this is part of repeated interventions since March 2026 linked to energy price spikes driven by the Middle East conflict. The UK, however, has continued to wallow in a windfall bonanza of extra VAT because Rachel Reeves refused to help the UK's 42m drivers, even though over 40 other countries stepped in immediately to reduce the cost of filling up. UK drivers have had to pay an extra £5.5bn in filling up costs since the Iran conflict started, with the Government milking nearly £1bn of extra VAT. 70% of the extra cost of filling up has been shouldered by the commercial heartbeat of the nation, diesel drivers. Europe (closest parallels) Greece: Already implementing a 10 cents/litre petrol and 5 cents/litre diesel reduction funded by refineries (through end-August). The government added a further state-funded 10 cents/litre on diesel for the whole of August 2026 (total ~15 cents on diesel), costing about €30 million, aimed at professionals, transport, and limiting wider price impacts. Announced around 26 July 2026. Spain: Progressive cuts to the Hydrocarbons Tax on unleaded gasoline and diesel of 15 cents/litre in July, 10 cents in August, and 5 cents in September 2026 (with a safeguard clause for larger cuts if inflation on these fuels exceeds 15%). This followed the end of a prior VAT reduction; professional/agricultural diesel supports were also extended. Approved via Royal Decree-Law at end-June 2026. Ireland: Temporary excise cuts of 32 cents/litre on diesel (and 27 cents on petrol), plus related NORA levy reductions, extended in full until 31 August 2026, followed by a phased restoration of rates from September to December. A diesel rebate enhancement for hauliers runs to end-September. Decision around end-June 2026. Other European measures (some tapering or sector-specific) have included earlier or ongoing relief in places such as Sweden (additional energy/CO₂ tax cuts into autumn), the UK (fuel duty cut running to end-August with phased restoration), the Netherlands (extended reduced rates), Norway, and various earlier temporary cuts/caps in Germany, Austria, Czechia, Croatia, France (company/sectoral supports and price caps), Romania, Slovenia, and elsewhere, which largely expired or were reduced around June-July. Outside Europe (selected recent examples) Thailand: Energy authorities approved a temporary Bt2.40/litre cut in ex-refinery diesel prices (various grades) from 24 July to 15 August 2026, using refining excess gains to ease pressure on pump prices and the oil fund. Regulated or government-influenced markets such as the UAE (lowered official petrol and diesel prices for July after earlier rises), South Korea (successive reductions in oil price caps), and Namibia (sharp diesel cut of N$4/litre alongside petrol in early July, plus an emergency import scheme) have also adjusted pump or supply prices downward. These actions vary in design (broad tax cuts vs targeted subsidies, refinery contributions, price caps, or upstream adjustments), duration, funding, and scope (diesel-only vs both fuels; consumer vs professional/agricultural). Many European measures began earlier in the 2026 crisis (post-February/March Middle East escalation) and are being phased out as oil prices fluctuate. Italy's latest step and Greece's August top-up are among the most recent responses to renewed pressure. Market-driven declines (from falling crude) have also lowered prices in various places without new government tax cuts. We are a public affairs team with no shareholders to satisfy, just an award-winning campaign representing the real concerns of hard-working motorists, families, small businesses, commercial drivers and hauliers across the UK. Decades of fiscal exploitation by successive Governments with little in return warrant the need for FairFuelUK. FairFuelUK was founded by and is managed by the Campaign's CEO, Howard Cox. Funding is provided through regular donations from supporters. Previous backers have included Logistics UK, the RHA, the RAC, Association of Pallet Networks, UKLPG and others Since 2010, FairFuelUK has saved drivers over £200bn in planned tax hikes in duty and VAT through constructive and objective campaigning. Now the immediate pressure group's focus is on stopping those unnecessary tax hikes based on a good-intentioned but flawed 'green' agenda. These include new taxes and bans on drivers entering our major cities, and potentially adding more costs on petrol and diesel drivers by the Treasury. These are new taxes that will not improve air quality, but simply hit consumers and the economy. There are ways to improve air quality without hitting consumers' pockets. Current FairFuelUK Campaign Issues include: Fuel duty, VAT on duty - PumpWatch and fuel price transparency - Effective ways to lower emissions but not through tax hikes - Stop the perennial demonisation of van drivers, hauliers and motorists - Quash ULEZ, LTNs, 15 minute areas - Scrap 2030 Ban on the sales of new diesel and petrol cars - More investment in UK roads similar to the level of HS2 spend - Establish a long term Government strategic roads transport plan - Halt unnecessary cash generating congestion zones and ULEZ expansion - VED and its future - Influence fairer future road user taxation plans and road funding with fuel duty revenue predicted to decline - Help role out new vehicle technology in a way that does not hit drivers in the pocket - Scrap hospital parking charges - Other related motoring costs and driving issues
Lakeshore Foundation to Host First Domestic Boccia Competition Since 2017
Tue, Jul 28, 2026 16:25 EDT
For the first time in nearly a decade, an international boccia tournament will take place on United States soil, and Birmingham has been selected to host the event. Lakeshore Foundation, located in the Birmingham suburb of Homewood, will play host to the Birmingham 2026 World Boccia Challenger June 16-23, 2026. Lakeshore also serves as the home of Boccia United States, the high-performance program for boccia in the United States, through the Lakeshore National Adapted Sport Organization (LNASO). The competition will feature nearly 70 athletes from 13 countries, including international heavy-hitters South Korea, Brazil and Mexico. The Challenger provides athletes with the opportunity to not only increase their international rankings but to also secure important sport classification, without which a pathway to the next Paralympic Games in 2028 does not exist. "The Birmingham 2026 World Boccia Challenger is a critical stop on the road toward the LA28 Paralympic Games. Far more than medals are at stake for the athletes competing in Birmingham, said Kathy Brinker, high performance manager for Boccia United States. "The Challenger will also serve as a proving ground for athletes seeking a spot on their national team. Spectators should be prepared for five days of extraordinary precision, strategy and dramatic finishes. You will watch current top-ranked athletes competing alongside the next generation of boccia superstars, all of whom are looking to secure a coveted spot in Los Angeles." The last World Boccia event held in the United States took place in Kansas City, Mo., in 2017. With LA28 on the horizon, the upcoming Challenger also provides an opportunity to generate domestic interest in boccia, a sport that, while renowned internationally, is still trying to build a base in the States. "It is an honor to have won the bid to host the Birmingham 2026 World Boccia Challenge," said Lakeshore President/CEO John D. Kemp. "This is the first international event in this country since 2017 for the sport of boccia, and we are thrilled to welcome 13 other nations to the U.S. and to our hometown of Birmingham, Alabama. We are also proud to have the opportunity to cheer on our U.S. delegation as they look to top the podium here in June." Boccia is a Paralympic precision sport played from a seated position with soft leather balls. Originally developed for individuals with cerebral palsy, boccia is now played widely by individuals with physical disability requiring the use of a wheelchair. The sport made its Paralympic debut in 1984 and is now practiced in over 50 countries worldwide. It is one of only two Paralympic sports (the other being goalball) without an Olympic equivalent. The Birmingham 2026 World Boccia Challenger is open to the public with free admission. You can learn more about the Birmingham 2026 World Boccia Challenger by visiting lakeshore.org/birmingham2026
SGS Summarizes UK Proposal to Permit Cobalt in Certain Toy Applications in Great Britain
Tue, Jul 28, 2026 09:54 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 094.26, highlighting draft legislation notified by the United Kingdom to the World Trade Organization (WTO) that would allow the use of cobalt in certain toy applications in Great Britain. Cobalt is commonly found in pigments, colorants, metal and electrical components and magnets, and is a potential component in emerging applications, including materials used in toy 3D pens and 3D printers. The draft law, which proposes revisions to The Toys (Safety) Regulation 2011 ('the Toys Regulation', S.I. 2011 No 1881), was notified to the WTO in June 2026. The proposed changes apply to Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) and would permit the use of cobalt in specified toy applications. Appendix A of the proposed amendment adds an entry for cobalt, which would impact stakeholders across Great Britain's toy supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers and other intermediaries. The amendment is proposed to enter into force on March 8, 2027. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 094.26 includes a helpful table summarizing the proposed permitted uses of cobalt. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 094.26 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 UK Consults Over Proposal to Permit Cobalt in Certain Toys for Great Britain 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
Warehouses Employ Far More People Than Official Figures Suggest
Tue, Jul 28, 2026 05:31 EDT
New analysis of the UK warehousing sector, carried out by the UK Warehousing Association, suggests it employs around 760,000 people nationally - over 70% more than official figures have suggested. Many of these roles have historically been hidden within broader retail and manufacturing employment figures, meaning the true scale of the workforce moving goods around the country's warehouses has gone largely unrecognised. Midland Pallet Trucks says the finding matters particularly for the Midlands, home to one of the largest concentrations of warehousing and distribution activity in the UK. With so many people now confirmed to be working in and around warehouses in the region, the company argues it is worth pausing to consider the physical demands placed on that workforce every single day. A large proportion of warehouse roles involve repetitive manual handling, whether that's moving stock between storage and picking areas, loading vehicles, or shifting pallets across a site. For many of these workers, the equipment they use dozens of times a shift has a direct bearing on how physically demanding their job is. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said, "It's easy to talk about warehousing as an abstract part of the economy, but these figures are a reminder that it's built on real people doing physically demanding work, day in, day out, often without much attention paid to them. The Midlands has always been at the heart of that, and these numbers confirm just how big that workforce really is here. "What strikes me is that a lot of the roles behind this figure are the ones that get least attention when businesses think about investment. Everyone talks about automation and robotics, but for most Midlands operators, it's still someone operating a pallet truck , a stacker truck or a lift table that keeps the operation moving. If the workforce is bigger than we thought, then making sure that equipment is doing its job properly, rather than adding unnecessary strain, matters more than ever. "We'd like to see this data prompt a bit more thought locally about the basics. Not everything needs a big capital project: sometimes it's simply making sure the right equipment, properly maintained and suited to the job, is in the hands of the people doing this work every day." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
Johnson Pope Attorneys Ryan Griffin and Craig Taraszki Advise Winning Development Team Selected to Redevelop St. Petersburg's Historic Gas Plant District
Tue, Jul 28, 2026 03:00 EDT
Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP ("Johnson Pope" or "JP") is proud to announce that firm attorneys Ryan Griffin and Craig Taraszki played a key role advising the development team behind the Burg Bid, which the City of St. Petersburg selected to lead the redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District. The selection, announced by St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch, represents one of the largest and most consequential redevelopment opportunities in the city's history. The Burg Bid, led by Blake Investment Partners together with the Related Group and Elliott Investment Management, was chosen from a competitive field of proposals to redevelop approximately 86 acres surrounding Tropicana Field. The plan envisions more than $8 billion in total investment, including over 3,600 units of affordable and workforce housing, a 13-acre central park, a new home for the Woodson African American Museum of Florida, and a range of cultural, retail, and workforce-development facilities. Any final development agreement will require negotiation with the City and approval by the St. Petersburg City Council. The Historic Gas Plant District was once home to a thriving, predominantly Black neighborhood before residents were displaced decades ago to make way for Interstate 175 and Tropicana Field. The selected proposal includes commitments intended to honor that history, including preference for displaced Gas Plant families and their descendants to return to the redeveloped area. "JP is proud to play a role alongside such a talented team of world-class partners on a project that is so instrumental and important - not only for the City of St. Petersburg, but for the family members of the displaced Gas Plant neighborhood residents," said Ryan Griffin, Partner at Johnson Pope. Griffin and Taraszki, both members of Johnson Pope's Real Estate practice, advised the team on matters related to the district's redevelopment as the proposal moved through the City's competitive selection process. Their work reflects Johnson Pope's continued involvement in shaping major real estate, land use, and development matters throughout the Tampa Bay region. On the project, Griffin worked with Don Mastry, a shareholder at Trenam and a longtime leader in St. Petersburg real estate and development, whose experience before the City's land use and permitting bodies has helped shape many of the city's most significant development projects. Ryan Griffin is a Partner in Johnson Pope's St. Petersburg office and a past president of the St. Petersburg Bar Association. His practice focuses on construction and development matters, and land use and zoning issues throughout the Tampa Bay area. Craig Taraszki is a Partner in Johnson Pope's St. Petersburg office, where his practice draws on his background in construction law, real estate transactions, entitlements, and land use and zoning matters.
