Steptoe & Johnson Nationally and Regionally Recognized in the 2027 Edition of Best Law Firms®
Thu, Nov 05, 2026 12:59 EST
BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. - Steptoe & Johnson PLLC is pleased to announce that the firm has been ranked both nationally and regionally in the 2027 edition of Best Law Firms ®. Steptoe & Johnson has received 13 national rankings, in addition to 60 Metropolitan Tier 1 rankings in practice areas covering 11 regions in Colorado, Kentucky, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia. Best Law Firms ® rankings are based on a rigorous evaluation process that includes the collection of client and lawyer evaluations, peer review from leading attorneys in their field, and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process. National Tier 1 Mining Law Oil and Gas Law National Tier 2 Commercial Litigation Construction Law Corporate Law Energy Law Litigation - Construction Mergers and Acquisitions Law Natural Resources Law National Tier 3 Banking and Finance Law Project Finance Law Railroad Law Real Estate Law Metropolitan Tier 1 rankings include the following: Charleston, WV Administrative / Regulatory Law Banking and Finance Law Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law Bet-the-Company Litigation Commercial Litigation Corporate Law Economic Development Law Employment Law - Management Energy Law Energy Regulatory Law Environmental Law Government Relations Practice Insurance Law Labor Law - Management Litigation - Environmental Litigation - Health Care Litigation - Insurance Litigation - Labor and Employment Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Defendants Mining Law Municipal Law Natural Resources Law Oil and Gas Law Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants Product Liability Litigation - Defendants Project Finance Law Real Estate Law Securitization and Structured Finance Law Transportation Law Trusts and Estates Water Law Denver, CO Energy Law Columbus, OH Corporate Law Energy Law Mergers and Acquisitions Law Natural Resources Law Oil and Gas Law Project Finance Law Dallas/Fort Worth, TX Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships) Commercial Litigation Corporate Law Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law Employment Law - Management Mergers and Acquisitions Law Nonprofit / Charities Law Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants Railroad Law Trusts and Estates Houston, TX Litigation - Insurance Medical Malpractice Law - Defendants Lexington, KY Commercial Litigation Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants Louisville, KY Education Law Insurance Law Medical Malpractice Law - Defendants Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants Professional Malpractice Law - Defendants Railroad Law Morgantown, WV Appellate Practice Arbitration Banking and Finance Law Bet-the-Company Litigation Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships) Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law Commercial Finance Law Commercial Litigation Corporate Law Criminal Defense: White-Collar Economic Development Law Employment Law - Individuals Employment Law - Management Energy Law Health Care Law Insurance Law Labor Law - Management Land Use and Zoning Law Legal Malpractice Law - Defendants Litigation - Banking and Finance Litigation - Construction Litigation - Insurance Litigation - Labor and Employment Litigation - Land Use and Zoning Litigation - Municipal Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Defendants Mediation Medical Malpractice Law - Defendants Mortgage Banking Foreclosure Law Municipal Law Natural Resources Law Nonprofit / Charities Law Oil and Gas Law Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants Product Liability Litigation - Defendants Professional Malpractice Law - Defendants Public Finance Law Real Estate Law Tax Law Trusts and Estates Workers' Compensation Law - Employers Oklahoma City, OK Commercial Finance Law Family Law Litigation - Labor and Employment Pittsburgh, PA Energy Law Insurance Law Labor Law - Management Litigation - Real Estate Natural Resources Law Product Liability Litigation - Defendants Real Estate Law San Antonio, TX Commercial Litigation Construction Law Litigation - Real Estate Nonprofit / Charities Law Oil and Gas Law
RSPO RT2026 Addresses Indonesia Fires, Single Export Gate, and Smallholder Inclusion
Thu, Nov 05, 2026 09:26 EST
Correction: 5 November 2026: An earlier version of this press release dated 4 November 2026 stated, "analysis shows that there has been no land burned in RSPO Certified independent smallholder plots.". This has been corrected to: "analysis shows that there has been almost no land burned in RSPO Certified independent smallholder plots." We apologise for any confusion this may have caused. RSPO Members urged to speak up for the sustainable palm oil sector based on hard data, facts, and evidence of fire prevention and management actions. DSI clarifies its role in protecting export continuity, and preserving palm oil traceability chain Newly certified smallholders and potential international companies explored commercial opportunities through sales of Independent Smallholder Credits Jakarta, 4 November 2026: The Annual Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RT2026) brought together global stakeholders to mobilise action for a more sustainable palm oil industry, ensuring that RSPO's foundational mandate continues to deliver real environmental and social progress amid shifting geopolitical and market conditions. Indonesia's wildfires: Data shows RSPO Certified concessions impacted by fires at a far lower rate than industry average RSPO's flagship conference took place at a challenging period for Indonesia. Amidst one of the strongest El Niño events on record, land and forest fires have burned more than 1.9 million hectares across the archipelago between January and September 2026, according to satellite analysis by Nusantara Atlas.
Canberra Corporation Announces Facility Expansion to Support Future Innovation
Thu, Nov 05, 2026 08:08 EST
Expansion will increase production and assembly capabilities as the company continues investing in advanced cleaning solutions. Canberra Corporation , a third-generation, family-owned manufacturer of cleaning solutions, is expanding its Toledo facility to support new production and assembly operations. The investment reflects the company's continued commitment to innovation, advanced technology and growth within the janitorial and sanitation industry. The expansion will add approximately 10,000 square feet across three building sections, including a two-story addition, as well as a new parking lot. The additional space will enhance Canberra's operational capabilities and support the development and production of its next generation of cleaning solutions. "As a family-owned company with more than 60 years of history in Toledo, we're proud to continue investing in our operations and our future," said B. Chase Yacko, Chief Revenue Officer of Canberra Corporation. "This expansion will give us the space and capabilities to support new technologies, strengthen our production operations and continue developing innovative cleaning solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers." The expansion reinforces Canberra's longstanding commitment to Toledo and its continued investment in local operations. As the janitorial and sanitation industry evolves, the company remains focused on strengthening its capabilities, responding to changing customer needs and developing solutions that improve cleaning operations across a wide range of industries. The additional space will help position Canberra for future growth while supporting its commitment to quality, innovation and customer service. ### About Canberra Corporation Canberra Corporation is a third-generation, family-owned company with more than 60 years of experience in the cleaning industry. Headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, Canberra is a recognized leader in cleaning chemical manufacturing, product innovation and customer-driven services for the commercial, institutional, industrial and retail markets.
eXp International Connects Nexus to Claude, ChatGPT and Other AI Assistants, Letting Agents Run Their CRM in Plain Language
Thu, Nov 05, 2026 06:47 EST
New Model Context Protocol (MCP) integration lets agents search, create and update CRM records from the AI assistant they already use, with access off by default, set by their organization, and revocable by the agent at any time eXp International's AI-native platform for agents, now connects directly to the AI assistants agents already use. Through a new Model Context Protocol (MCP) integration, agents can ask Claude, ChatGPT, Cursor or VS Code/GitHub Copilot to work inside their Nexus CRM, from adding a lead and opening a deal to uploading listing photographs, in plain language. An agent could, for example, ask an assistant to "add this lead and create a deal in my buyer pipeline," find the tasks due that week, or update a property record. There is no new app to learn and no switching between systems. The release extends the "MCP First, AI of Choice" strategy eXp Realty unveiled at eXpcon in Salt Lake City on Oct. 8, and it is an early look at the Nexus platform that will underpin AGNT OS, the company's planned modernization of its core systems, targeted for early 2027. "AI becomes significantly more useful when it can move beyond simply giving you an answer and actually help you get work done," said Felix Bravo, Managing Director of eXp International. "That's what makes this important for Nexus. An agent can have a normal conversation with the AI assistant they already use and, with their permission, that assistant can work directly with their CRM. It can find information, create a contact, update a deal, manage a task or help with a listing without the agent having to move between different systems to make it happen. "We built Nexus around the way agents actually operate across international markets, and this is a natural next step. The technology should reduce the friction around running the business and give agents more time and capacity to focus on the work that requires them." More Than 40 Nexus Tools, Available to the Assistant of the Agent's Choice Rather than introducing a separate AI product, the integration lets Nexus work with the assistants agents have already chosen. With read and write access, agents can: Search, create, update and tag contacts, and link them to deals Create and manage deals, move them between pipeline stages and add notes Create and update properties and listings, manage amenities, upload and organize photographs, and add documents to deals or properties Create, complete or reopen their own tasks Read-only access covers campaigns, pipelines, tags, lead sources, teammates, teams and organization configuration. Built Around Agent Choice and Control AI assistant access is off by default. Each organization chooses whether it is switched off, read-only, or read and write, and an agent's access can never exceed what their organization has set. Once enabled, agents connect from a compatible assistant and sign in through Nexus's own secure consent process. The assistant acts as the authenticated Nexus user and sees only what that user is already permitted to see. Team leads can view records available to them through existing team permissions, while editing stays limited to their own records. Agents can see which AI applications are connected, when each was last used, and revoke access at any time, with immediate effect. The integration is available now to agents, team leads and administrators in organizations using Nexus CRM that have opted in to AI assistant access. ###
What Ingredients Are in My Gel Manicure? RAWR Beauty Explains
Thu, Nov 05, 2026 03:30 EST
Do you know what goes into your gel manicure? Recent rule changes mean the answers matter more than ever. According to RAWR Beauty, there are two ingredients in particular that are worth knowing about. The first is TPO. This is a photoinitiator, the ingredient that helps gel polish cure under a UV or LED lamp. It has been banned in cosmetics in the EU since 1 September 2025. Great Britain is following in stages: manufacturers could no longer place products containing TPO on the market from 15 August 2026, and from 14 February 2027 those products should not be made available for sale. Gel manicures aren't going away but this ingredient will change. Then there is HEMA, a product that helps gel bond to the nail. It can cause allergic reactions, particularly when uncured gel touches the skin. It is not banned, but its use is restricted. In the EU, for example, it is limited to professional use - and products must carry allergy warnings. Because TPO and HEMA do different jobs, a product can be free of one and still contain the other, so it is worth asking your technician what products they use. RAWR Beauty's own brand gel polish and BIAB range are both TPO- and HEMA-free. "We are seeing more and more customers asking about what is in their manicure, which we feel is a positive thing," said Rakesh Dasani, Co-Founder of RAWR Beauty. "We have created our own gel polish and BIAB range to be TPO and HEMA free as we want more control over our products. "Our range includes BIAB, Builder in a Bottle. This is a thick gel polish that is applied over the natural nail to build structure and will give a strong, shiny manicure without needing traditional extensions." However, HEMA-free doesn't mean allergy free. "It is important to apply carefully and ensure it is fully cured. We would always advise a qualified technician." Here are a few simple tips to help with any product: Choose a qualified nail technician. Ensure your gel is fully cured under the lamp. Don't try to peel the gel off at home as this can damage your natural nail. If your skin becomes red, itchy or sore after your manicure speak to your technician and seek medical advice. For more information, please visit www.Rawrbeauty.co.uk .
New Warehouse Equipment Should Trigger a Training Review, Says Pallet Truck Shop
Thu, Nov 05, 2026 03:30 EST
Replacing a worn pallet truck may seem like a simple purchase, but warehouse managers should consider whether any extra training is needed to use the new equipment. Pallet Truck Shop, the largest pallet and sack truck supplier in the UK, is urging businesses to think about the training their operators need when bringing in new material handling items. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advises that manual handling training should be specific to the work being done, including the safe use of mechanical aids. When equipment or handling methods change, training should be reviewed to make sure it is still relevant. That means looking at how the new equipment will be used. If the controls differ from what operators are used to, that can cause problems. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Truck Shop, said, "It's easy to focus on cost, load capacity and delivery time when buying handling equipment and forget about the training. Even a small change can affect how an operator handles a load, manoeuvres in an aisle or works around other people." How much training is needed depends on what has changed. Replacing a manual pallet truck , stacker or table truck with something similar may not seem like much, but different specifications bring their own considerations. Chesworth added, "You don't necessarily need a huge amount of training when replacing equipment. High quality, simple equipment with easy-to-use controls can help. Just check what has changed and make sure people are confident with it." A review can also show problems that extra training can't solve. Having to push too much, forks that are the wrong size or a truck that isn't suitable for the loads can all suggest the wrong equipment is being used. "You can't train staff to use the wrong equipment," Chesworth said. "If they are struggling to move loads or constantly working around an unsuitable truck, look at the task and the equipment together. Getting the equipment right from the outset can make safe working practices easier to keep up." To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
Johnson, Pope, Bokor, Ruppel & Burns LLP Earns 2027 Best Law Firms® Rankings in 27 Practice Areas
Thu, Nov 05, 2026 03:00 EST
Johnson, Pope, Bokor, Ruppel & Burns LLP has earned regional rankings in the 2027 edition of Best Law Firms®. This places the firm among a select group of about 2-4% of law firms nationwide recognized for practice group excellence. In a crowded legal marketplace, Best Law Firms rankings set apart practices with exceptional professional excellence, deep experience and consistent client trust. The firm's recognition in 27 regional practice areas reflects both the strength of its attorneys and its lasting reputation in the profession. Johnson, Pope, Bokor, Ruppel & Burns LLP received the following rankings in the 2027 Best Law Firms®: Regional Tier 1 St. Petersburg Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships) Commercial Litigation Corporate Law Employment Law - Management Health Care Law Litigation - Labor and Employment Litigation - Real Estate Litigation - Trusts and Estates Real Estate Law Tax Law Trusts and Estates Tampa Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law Commercial Litigation Criminal Defense: White-Collar Health Care Law Litigation - Banking and Finance Litigation - Bankruptcy Litigation - Intellectual Property Litigation - Patent Litigation - Real Estate Litigation - Securities Real Estate Law Tax Law Trademark Law Trusts and Estates Regional Tier 2 St. Petersburg Employment Law - Individuals Labor Law - Management Mergers and Acquisitions Law Tampa Corporate Law Land Use and Zoning Law Litigation - Labor and Employment Litigation - Land Use and Zoning Litigation - Trusts and Estates Mergers and Acquisitions Law Securities / Capital Markets Law Regional Tier 3 St. Petersburg Litigation - Construction Tampa Securities Regulation What the Tiers Mean: Best Law Firms groups firms into tiers instead of ranking them one by one. Each tier is tied to one practice area in one market, such as Real Estate Law in Tampa. Tier 1 is the highest level of recognition, followed by Tier 2 and Tier 3. Each firm gets an overall score that combines feedback from clients and professional references, reviews from peer attorneys and other research. Firms are often separated by only small differences in that score, so grouping them into tiers gives a more accurate picture than a numbered list. Ranking in any tier is a distinction. To be eligible in a practice area and market, a firm must have at least one attorney recognized in that year's edition of The Best Lawyers in America®. Even then, the number of tiers awarded varies, and some practice areas aren't ranked at all in a market when there isn't enough data for a fair comparison. Rankings are determined through a rigorous, data-driven process that includes extensive client feedback, peer review and independent research. Only firms that receive the highest levels of recognition in these assessments earn tiered rankings. Phil Greer, CEO of Best Lawyers, underscored the exclusivity of the honor: "Best Law Firms rankings recognize an exceptionally small percentage of firms in what is an extraordinarily competitive legal field. To be included means a firm has distinguished itself among thousands of practices through demonstrated excellence, credibility and peer respect. These honorees represent the very top tier of practice group performance." Best Law Firms recognizes firms nationally and regionally in tiered categories based on the scope, quality and market impact of their practice, making inclusion a powerful benchmark of legal distinction.
NAS3™ .50 BMG Ammunition Clears Belt-Fed Test
Wed, Nov 04, 2026 10:32 EST
Final major validation complete as SST moves its .50 BMG NAS 3 case toward sample-lot production. Shell Shock Technologies , LLC (SST), a leading innovator in the ammunition industry, today announced that its .50 BMG (12.7x99mm) NAS 3 ™ ammunition has successfully completed live-fire testing in a belt-fed machine gun. The cases and ammunition fed, fired, extracted, and cycled as designed, marking the final major validation SST sought before moving the .50 BMG NAS 3 case into production. Following minor tooling refinements, the company expects to begin producing its first sample lots in November 2026. The test was conducted by Detroit Ammo on Oct. 1, 2026, using an M2Hb belted machine gun, with 10 consecutive rounds fired. Belt-fed operation places different demands on a cartridge case than a test barrel or bolt-action rifle. In automatic fire, the case must withstand high-speed feeding from a linked belt, chambering, firing, and rapid extraction, cycle after cycle. The NAS 3 case met each of those demands. The belt-fed results build on SST's earlier test-barrel and bolt-action evaluations, including independent live-fire testing conducted by Vairog US, LLC and announced in July 2026 . That testing recorded zero primer or case failures across nine charge weights. The SST .50 BMG NAS 3 case offers approximately 13.5 percent greater internal capacity than standard brass, enabling a higher powder charge for improved velocity and downrange energy. In testing at standard SAAMI pressures, the NAS 3 case produced approximately 280 feet per second more velocity than comparable brass at approximately 54,000 PSI. At approximately 33.7 grams, the .50 BMG NAS 3 case is roughly 40 percent lighter than a comparable brass case, saving approximately 46 pounds per 1,000 rounds. For crew-served, belt-fed weapons, where crews carry, stage, and feed ammunition in volume, that reduction delivers direct logistics and mobility value. The case's nickel-stainless steel alloy construction also supports clean extraction, faster heat dissipation than brass, and corrosion resistance under sustained fire and adverse conditions. "This was the test I was waiting for. We had already seen very strong results through test barrels and bolt-action rifles, but numbers from a test barrel only tell part of the story. The real question was simple: How does it run in a belt-fed machine gun? Now we know. It fed, fired, extracted, and cycled exactly the way we wanted it to. After all the engineering, tooling, and testing that went into reaching this point, watching that belt run was a significant milestone for our entire team," said Peter Foss , Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies. With belt-fed validation complete, SST is finalizing tooling adjustments ahead of its first sample lots and will continue gathering performance data as it moves into production. The .50 BMG NAS 3 case is engineered for professional end-users who require every performance advantage the platform can deliver, and for precision shooters pushing the limits of extreme long-range capability. Video of the belt-fed test is available on SST's Instagram . Keep up with Shell Tech's advanced ammunition on the website and social media platforms: Facebook , Instagram , X (formerly Twitter) , and YouTube .
American Marketing Association Announces 2027 Summer Academic Conference: Call for Papers Now Open
Wed, Nov 04, 2026 09:10 EST
2026 AMA Summer Academic Conference Comes to Denver AMA's 2026 Summer Academic Conference will Focus on Amplifying Scholarship, Teaching, and Organizational Leadership Join us July 24-26, 2026 in Denver, Colorado Chicago, IL- The American Marketing Association (AMA) will host the 2026 Summer Academic Conference on July 24-26 in Denver, Colorado. The 2026 conference theme-Amplifying Scholarship, Teaching, and Organizational Leadership. The 2026 Summer Academic Conference recognizes that professional growth happens across multiple dimensions, and every stage of the academic journey matters. The 2026 conference brings together marketing doctoral students, clinical faculty, experienced professors, and marketing professionals to navigate the evolving academic landscape. Attendees will collaborate through curated workshops, panels, and research presentations designed to fuel careers and build networks at every stage of their academic and professional journeys. 2026 Topics Analyzing how AI is changing marketing theory, classroom dynamics, and consumer behavior. Examining how marketing systems and corporate social responsibility intersect with global challenges like climate change, sustainability, and equity. Equipping early-career scholars and doctoral students with strategies for navigating the tenure process, job market readiness, and institutional leadership. Dates and Location July 20, 2026 - Virtual; July 24 - 26, 2026 - In-person Hilton Denver City Center - 1701 California St., Denver, CO 80202 To secure your conference pass and book accommodations, visit the AMA event page . Session Highlights The AMA will host several enriching sessions: Meet the AMA Legends: A dynamic session offering attendees access to some of the field's most distinguished scholars. Teaching AI with AI: Hands on session focusing on prompt engineering, classroom guardrails, and turning artificial intelligence into practical assignments. Scholarly Impact - From Idea to Contribution: A developmental workshop tailored for early-career scholars. Agenda and full list of speakers is available here . ###
Mom's House and Harbor Announce Collaborative Landmark Program: UPSTREAM
Wed, Nov 04, 2026 08:33 EST
WHAT: Mom's House of Toledo and Harbor announce their partnership establishing the pilot program, UPSTREAM. The collaboration of these two organizations is without equal in the nation, making this unveiling significant. Hear from the founders of UPSTREAM as they detail the urgent demand and the vision of its outcomes. Please note: This is a private event for UPSTREAM team members and civic leaders. Media are invited to attend and capture the inspiring story of the first mother and child participants in this pilot, as well as the program design by its leaders. Photography will be permitted of UPSTREAM participants from the shoulders down. WHEN: Friday, Nov. 6 8:30 a.m. Media Interviews 9:00 a.m. Program 9:30 a.m. Event concludes WHERE: Laurie's Place 22 N. Westwood Ave., Toledo, Ohio WHY: To unveil UPSTREAM's vision and position in community need locally and nationally. The conference will also celebrate the opportunity to serve two generations of participants. MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES: Speak with UPSTREAM leadership Learn about the unique nature of UPSTREAM and the implications this collaboration of organizations has on local and national efforts ### About Mom's House Mom's House is dedicated to breaking the cycles of poverty and welfare. We empower at-risk single parents to achieve their educational goals while equipping them with the tools and resources necessary to become effective caregivers. Mom's House is committed to positively impacting the lives of two generations through education, fostering an environment where both parent and child can thrive. For more information, please visit momshousetoledo.org . About Harbor Harbor is a leading mental health and substance use disorder treatment provider in Ohio. We are a not-for-profit mental health care agency that has been serving the community for over 100 years. Harbor serves over 30,000 youth, adults, seniors and families annually and provides a full range of mental health, telehealth, vocational, primary care, and substance use disorder treatment services. Harbor is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and certified by the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (DBH). For more information, please visit harbor.org
Online Retail Holds Firm at 28.8% as Warehouses Prepare for Black Friday Rush
Wed, Nov 04, 2026 04:49 EST
With Black Friday and Christmas approaching, there isn't much room for delays in retail warehouses. As more people shop online, businesses need to keep goods moving through their storage, picking and dispatch areas, Pallet Trucks UK says. According to figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on 23 October, online spending rose by 7.4% year on year in the third quarter of 2026. In September, online shopping made up 28.8% of total retail sales, barely changed from 28.9% in August, and online sales values were 6.8% higher than a year earlier. Online spending edged down 0.1% on the previous quarter, but the annual growth still points to plenty of orders to fulfil. For smaller businesses and independent online traders, more orders can make it harder to move goods around the building. Narrow aisles, limited storage and small packing areas can get in the way of topping up stock while outgoing orders are being prepared, and equipment that copes with everyday use may struggle when several jobs need doing at once. Pallet Trucks UK say this is a good time to review handling equipment and check it suits the job. Manual pallet trucks , stackers and lift tables are an easy option for moving and lifting palletised goods with relatively little effort - allowing staff to move smaller orders between storage and packing. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said, "When order volumes rise, the pressure is felt across the whole warehouse. Stock must be brought forward, topped up and moved around the building, and if the equipment is difficult to manoeuvre or unreliable, small delays can really start to build up. "You don't always need to invest in automation to keep up with demand. The right pallet truck, stacker or picking trolley can make everyday tasks easier. Make sure you review your equipment before it gets busy." Reviewing equipment early gives warehouse managers time to check how easily goods move around, make sure frequently used equipment is in good condition and spot any problems with how stock is handled. For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
SGS hosts webinar on updated China GB 6675 toy safety standards
Tue, Nov 03, 2026 04:25 EST
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is hosting a webinar, 'China Toy Safety: Understanding the New GB 6675 Standards,' on November 24, 2026. China's updated GB 6675 toy safety standards take effect in November 2026, introducing changes to physical, mechanical, flammability and chemical requirements, as well as China Compulsory Certification (CCC). For manufacturers, brands and retailers placing toys on the Chinese market, understanding the changes is important when preparing for product testing and certification. During the webinar, SGS toy safety experts Hing Wo Tsang and Julian Kwok will explain the key changes to GB 6675.1, GB 6675.2, GB 6675.3 and GB 6675.4. They will cover physical and mechanical requirements, flammability, migration of certain elements and new chemical requirements, including requirements for TVOC, SCCP, azo dyes, formaldehyde, PAHs, nitrosamines, formamide and allergenic fragrances. The speakers will also explain how the updated standards relate to CCC, helping attendees identify the requirements relevant to toys intended for the Chinese market and understand the implications for testing, certification and market access. The webinar is designed for toy manufacturers, brands, retailers and quality assurance, technical, product safety and compliance professionals involved in manufacturing or placing toys on the Chinese market. The 45-minute English-language session will take place at 10:00 AM CET and will conclude with a Q&A. Stakeholders are encouraged to register now for the 'China Toy Safety: Understanding the New GB 6675 Standards' webinar.
Christmas Market Season Puts Foldable Pallet Trucks on the Radar for Independent Traders
Tue, Nov 03, 2026 03:20 EST
Traders at Christmas markets often start early, unloading their stock, taking it to their stalls and setting up for the day. This usually happens in busy areas, so there isn't much space to work with. At the end of the day, the whole process happens in reverse. With markets opening up across the UK, Midland Pallet Trucks has highlighted sack trucks and trollies as a practical, affordable and robust option for traders who need to move goods between vehicles, storage and temporary trading positions. Space at market stalls is often tight, so traders may be working from a van and bringing goods from a nearby storage unit, sometimes over several trips. With a mix of decorations, gifts, drinks and seasonal items to sell, the size and weight of what they carry can vary a lot. Early starts and tight access add to the pressure, as stock often needs to be in place before the first customers arrive. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said, "Many traders won't have the luxury of a loading bay, a large storage area or somewhere to leave equipment overnight. "They might be unloading from a van in a busy car park and then moving stock around, trying to fit everything into a small pitch. Anything that makes those jobs easier without taking up much space is worth considering." Midland Pallet Trucks, which is a leading retailer of pallet trucks , stacker trucks and lift tables , says sack trucks are a great option for any small business moving goods around in smaller, public spaces. It still pays to check the equipment suits the job, though. Chesworth added, "As Christmas stock can be quite bulky, some traders will be moving drinks in cases or heavier cartons. It's important to make sure the truck you're using is suitable for your load, environment and surface." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
ATFX Partners with Acuity Trading to Support AT DeepSight Research Experience
Tue, Nov 03, 2026 01:00 EST
ATFX partners with Acuity Trading to integrate AT DeepSight, an AI-powered trading intelligence tool, into the ATFX client portal and dashboard. This collaboration delivers market context and structured research within an ATFX-branded environment to support eligible clients' market analysis. ATFX partners with Acuity Trading to bring AT DeepSight, an AI-powered trading intelligence tool, into the ATFX client portal for structured market research and enhanced market context. ATFX, a global CFD broker, has announced a partnership with Acuity Trading to support its AT DeepSight, an AI-powered trading intelligence tool, bringing market analysis and trading intelligence into the ATFX client experience. The tools will be available to eligible clients through ATFX's client portal and dashboard, with access subject to the relevant ATFX entity's terms and local requirements. Delivered under the AT DeepSight brand, the offering will allow clients to review research within the familiar ATFX environment, with Acuity providing supporting technology and research capabilities. The partnership focuses on a practical challenge for traders: interpreting price movements alongside the news, sentiment and economic developments that may be influencing them. Bringing these perspectives together can help clients organise their research, examine potential trading scenarios and understand the context behind market activity. AT DeepSight combines market context with structured analysis of potential trade setups. Its published capabilities include reviewing technical patterns, news sentiment and macroeconomic events, as well as identifying potential entry points, exit targets and risk management levels. These are analytical inputs for clients to assess as part of their own research; they are not assurances that a particular market outcome will occur. Through the partnership, ATFX will retain its own client-facing branding and presentation. The portal and dashboard will provide the access point for the tools covered by this announcement. Andrew Lane, CEO of Acuity Trading and MarketReader; "Access to information is only part of the challenge for traders. The more difficult task is understanding how price action, news and economic developments fit together, and what deserves further investigation. "Our role is to help ATFX make that research more accessible within its own client experience. AT DeepSight keeps the ATFX brand at the centre of that relationship, while our technology supports the delivery of structured analysis and market context. The objective is to give clients useful material to examine and question as part of their own decision-making." The collaboration reflects a focus on making research available where clients already manage their relationship with their broker. By bringing analytical resources into the client portal and dashboard, ATFX aims to make market research a more accessible part of the client journey. The offering is designed to support independent assessment. A technical pattern, change in sentiment or economic announcement can be relevant to a trader's analysis without determining what happens next. Research tools can help organise those inputs, but cannot remove uncertainty or the risks associated with trading. Weems Chan, Global Head of Marketing, ATFX: "Providing clients with access to relevant market intelligence is an important part of enhancing the overall trading experience. By bringing structured market analysis and trading intelligence into our client portal and dashboard, we aim to make these resources more accessible within the ATFX environment. "Our collaboration with Acuity Trading supports our ongoing efforts to enhance the services and tools available to eligible clients. Through AT DeepSight, we aim to provide a more integrated research experience that helps clients assess market developments and explore potential trading scenarios, while recognising that trading decisions require independent judgement and careful consideration of risk." The partnership sits within Acuity's wider approach to connecting market, event and trade intelligence. Its offering combines analysis of market developments and sentiment, coverage of events that may influence volatility, and structured trade research supported by analyst expertise and technology. Acuity's latest product development includes Market Companion, powered by MarketReader. The service identifies significant price movements and provides concise explanations of their possible drivers, drawing on price action, news, macroeconomic information and activity across related markets. Where a suitable match exists, it can place relevant Acuity analysis alongside an explanation, depending on the broker's subscribed datasets. Market Companion illustrates Acuity's broader focus on helping brokers deliver understandable market context within their own branded environments. Availability of AT DeepSight, supported instruments and access conditions may vary by jurisdiction and ATFX entity. Clients should refer to the information and terms provided by their relevant ATFX entity. Availability of AT DeepSight supported instruments and access conditions may vary by jurisdiction and ATFX entity. Clients should refer to the information and terms provided by their relevant ATFX entity. To learn more about AT DeepSight and its market intelligence capabilities, visit the AT DeepSight page . Regulatory information Human Technical Analysis research is provided by Acuity Research Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under firm reference number 787261. Acuity Trading Limited is not authorised or regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The tools and information described in this release provide general, non-personalised market analysis and do not constitute investment advice, a personal recommendation or an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any financial instrument. Trading involves risk, and past performance or previous market patterns are not reliable indicators of future results. ENDS About Acuity Trading Acuity Trading provides AI-driven market, event and trade intelligence for brokers, trading platforms and financial institutions. Its white-label technology helps firms deliver structured market insights, sentiment analysis, economic event intelligence and trade ideas across multiple channels and trading environments. About ATFX ATFX is a leading global fintech broker with a local presence in 24 locations and holds 10 regulatory licences and authorisations, including the UK's FCA, Australia's ASIC, Cyprus' CySEC, the UAE's CMA, Hong Kong's SFC, South Africa's FSCA, Mauritius' FSC, Seychelles' FSA, Cambodia's SERC and Colombia's SFC. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, innovative technology, and strict regulatory compliance, ATFX delivers exceptional trading experiences to clients worldwide.
New research reveals strong public support for National Parks' role in wellbeing, nature and climate action.
Mon, Nov 02, 2026 19:01 EST
Nine in ten people believe National Parks can help support people's mental health and wellbeing, while eight in ten agree National Parks are taking action on climate and nature. A new report from National Parks UK reveals strong public support for the wider role National Parks can play in people's lives, alongside shared concerns about mental wellbeing, nature loss, access to nature and the impacts of climate change. Based on a survey of 3,000 people across England, Scotland and Wales, supported by 30 in-depth interviews, the research found: 90% believe National Parks can help support people's mental health and wellbeing. 80% agree National Parks are taking action on climate and nature. 75% of people say feeling connected to nature is important. 89% say reducing stress and pressure in daily life is important. 76% care strongly about pollution, litter and damage to natural places. 69% care strongly about flooding and extreme weather. Large majorities also want better access to nature and stronger local communities. Across the UK, National Parks are already helping turn these shared priorities into action. From supporting people living with dementia to spend time outdoors and connect with others in the Cairngorms, to planting hedgerows, restoring grasslands and creating ponds for wildlife in the North York Moors, providing specialist beach wheelchairs so more people can reach the Pembrokeshire coast, and growing native trees from locally collected seed to restore woodlands in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, people and partners across National Parks are turning these priorities into practical action. The report highlights how National Parks are more than beautiful landscapes: they are places where action is happening and people and nature can thrive together. Gordon Watson, Chief Executive of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said: "This report shows that National Parks are more than beautiful landscapes: they are places where people and nature can thrive together, and where significant action is already well underway to help tackle some of society's biggest challenges. The projects we're highlighting across Scotland, Wales and England are just a snapshot of the work National Parks are delivering, but they clearly demonstrate that, despite the scale of those challenges, we can and should still have hope. Positive change is possible, and the public support is there to drive that change forward. Through collective action, connection and innovative solutions, National Parks are helping to make that change happen." Where change is happening Across the UK's National Parks, projects are responding to the issues people say matter to them. Cairngorms National Park is supporting people living with dementia to connect with nature and build social connection through an innovative programme. One carer attending the Outdoor Brain Health and Dementia Resource Centre described it as: "A lovely, welcoming place in amazing surroundings which put us right at the heart of nature." North York Moors National Park is restoring habitats to support wildlife and help strengthen the resilience of the landscape through volunteering initiatives. Bob Dicker, a member of the local community who volunteers at the project said: "This is a great way for a bunch of local people to say, 'we can do our bit'." Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is improving opportunities for more people to experience and enjoy the coast, by addressing physical barriers to access. Angela Robinson, Health and Wellbeing Officer, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority said: "Everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy Pembrokeshire's coast, and this scheme helps make that possible for people who might otherwise be excluded." Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is supporting a network of tree nurseries to help restore the landscape, creating more opportunities for local people and strengthening the resilience of the community to climate change. Hamshya Rajkumar, Nursery Volunteer Coordinator for the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Countryside Trust, said: "...the nursery is as much about people as plants. Volunteers and local communities are integral to its success, learning new skills, connecting with nature and helping to restore habitats across the National Park." More than beautiful places Collectively, National Parks are already making a positive difference to people's lives. The research found that 90% of people believe National Parks can help support people's mental health and wellbeing, while 80% agree that National Parks are taking action on climate and nature. These findings highlight the growing role of National Parks beyond their iconic landscapes. From supporting health and wellbeing and creating opportunities for local communities, to restoring nature and responding to climate change, National Parks are helping address some of the biggest challenges facing society today. National Parks UK is launching the report alongside its UK-wide initiative, The Answer Is National Parks , which showcases how projects across all 15 UK National Parks are turning these shared priorities into practical action.
AI, Packaging Volatility, and Natural Colors Emerge as 2027 Priorities for Food and Beverage Industry
Mon, Nov 02, 2026 18:40 EST
QCS Annual Conference discussions point to practical steps manufacturers can take in the year ahead Artificial intelligence is moving from experimentation to practical business applications. Packaging costs are expected to remain volatile, and the shift toward natural colors is creating new formulation challenges for food and beverage manufacturers. These were among the issues industry leaders identified as they looked toward 2027 at the QCS Purchasing Cooperative's annual conference, held October 18-20 in Plano, Texas. The QCS Annual Conference brought together QCS members and supply partners for education and discussion on the business challenges and opportunities facing food and beverage manufacturers. QCS President and CEO Ken Klug said the conversations reflected the cooperative's focus on helping members learn from one another, tap into industry expertise, and find practical solutions to shared challenges. Keynote speaker Dan Chuparkoff challenged attendees to consider how businesses can use AI to handle routine work, freeing people to focus more of their time on judgment, problem-solving, and innovation. An industry panel following his presentation showed that companies are already finding practical applications for the technology. Vardhaman Bawari of HP Hood discussed integrating AI capabilities into the company's existing software, including tools for meeting notes and contract management. Sean Martyn of ORO Labs described how AI can help procurement teams analyze supplier contracts for tariff exposure, assess potential cost impacts, and identify alternative sources of supply. "The AI panel was amazing," said Klug. "It was so powerful to hear from leaders in our cooperative community that they're using this technology and to hear how they're applying it to their businesses." Panelists also cautioned that greater adoption requires attention to data security, appropriate guardrails, and human judgment. Ingredient reformulation was another issue drawing attention as manufacturers respond to evolving consumer and market expectations. Brett Rosenbloom of Multi-Flow Industries highlighted the shift toward natural colors as one of the significant changes his company is preparing for in 2027. "My goal is to learn as much about natural colors as possible because that is where the industry is going and it is not an easy thing to do," Rosenbloom said. Packaging presented another set of challenges. QCS category leaders reported ongoing pricing volatility across printed packaging, films, paper-based packaging, and corrugated materials. Industry consolidation, including mill closures and extended downtime in the pulp and paper sector, was cited as a factor contributing to pricing pressure. The category leaders encouraged manufacturers to benchmark current packaging costs, identify opportunities to reduce unnecessary materials, and consider qualifying additional suppliers to help manage both cost and supply risk. "The tea leaves clearly indicate that price increases will remain volatile heading into 2027," said Leslie Williams, QCS category leader. "Put packaging on your calendar for a review." The discussion also highlighted the importance of looking beyond price alone. Packaging reviews can uncover opportunities to reduce material use, improve specifications, and evaluate whether current supplier strategies remain sensible as market conditions change. For Klug, the conversations in Plano underscored the value of combining industry expertise with the cooperative's collective resources and relationships. "It's really about leveraging the cooperative's collective strength, taking advantage of the category expertise we have, and building relationships," Klug said. The 2026 QCS Annual Conference featured educational sessions on artificial intelligence, food and beverage trends, packaging, operations, food safety, and customer experience, as well as opportunities for members and supply partners to exchange ideas and explore solutions to shared business challenges. ###
Norfolk Vet Products Joins Movora, Expanding Our Surgical Range Into Soft Tissue
Mon, Nov 02, 2026 16:04 EST
Movora expands into veterinary soft tissue surgery as Norfolk Vet Products joins Vimian MedTech, adding vascular access ports and chronic-care implants. The Chicago company behind vascular access ports and implants for long-term veterinary care is joining Movora - bringing soft tissue surgery into a portfolio built on orthopedics.
More than 150 Catholic ministries join #iGiveCatholic New Orleans for GivingTuesday
Mon, Nov 02, 2026 15:58 EST
NEW ORLEANS (Nov. 2, 2026) - More than 150 Catholic parishes, schools and ministries across the Archdiocese of New Orleans will raise funds through #iGiveCatholic New Orleans this year. Advanced Giving opens Nov. 16, and the campaign peaks on GivingTuesday, Dec. 1. In 2025, more than 5,300 donors gave $1.9 million to 148 local ministries. New Orleans drew more donors than any other participating diocese in the country. The Catholic Community Foundation created #iGiveCatholic in New Orleans in 2015. It has since grown into an independent national giving day for Catholic parishes, schools and ministries. The Foundation hosts the local campaign, a hub where Catholic nonprofits tell their stories, highlight their missions and inspire generosity. It makes it simple for donors to find and support causes that are making a difference. "What we began here in New Orleans more than a decade ago has grown into a national movement, but the heart of #iGiveCatholic is still local," said Cory J. Howat, executive director of the Catholic Community Foundation. "Every gift sustains the parishes, schools and ministries that make our communities stronger. This GivingTuesday, we invite everyone to support the work being done right here at home." As costs continue to climb, many ministries are struggling to sustain the programs and services their communities depend on. Rising prices for food, fuel and electricity have strained those that provide essential services, making community generosity especially important this year. Donors can schedule gifts starting Nov. 16 or give on GivingTuesday, Dec. 1. To find participating organizations, visit igivecatholic.org/neworleans .
Cleaved Diagnostics wins 2026 BioChallenge, New Orleans BioInnovation Center's international brain health pitch competition
Mon, Nov 02, 2026 14:45 EST
Newborn CMV diagnostic developed in New Orleans tops a field of 240 applicants from 35 countries; PathMaker Neurosystems and Moleculera Biosciences take second and third The New Orleans BioInnovation Center (NOBIC) announced that Cleaved Diagnostics won first place and the crowd favorite award at the 2026 BioChallenge pitch competition, held Thursday, Oct. 29. The annual competition attracted 240 applicants from 35 countries and 31 U.S. states, bringing emerging biotechnology and neurotechnology companies to New Orleans to showcase innovations aimed at improving brain health. The competition capped a two-day program that opened Wednesday, Oct. 28, with the Brain Health Summit at Ochsner Health's Debra H. and Robert J. Patrick Neuroscience Institute, where clinicians, researchers, investors and industry leaders discussed how to move brain health research into clinical practice. Together, the two days reflect NOBIC's effort to position New Orleans as a hub for brain health innovation, connecting promising companies from around the world with the clinical partners, expertise and capital needed to move new technologies from research to patients. Founded in New Orleans in 2024 on research developed at Tulane University, Cleaved Diagnostics is repurposing CRISPR gene-editing technology to develop rapid, highly sensitive and affordable diagnostic tools. Its first product, CLEVR, targets cytomegalovirus (CMV), the leading non-genetic cause of hearing loss in children and a common cause of developmental disability. The company's technology aims to improve early detection and expand access to critical diagnostic testing. "Winning BioChallenge is an exciting milestone for our team and validates the work we're doing to make critical diagnostic testing more accessible," said Chandler Monk, Ph.D., founder and CEO of Cleaved Diagnostics. "We founded Cleaved in New Orleans because we believe meaningful healthcare innovation can happen here." Boston-based PathMaker Neurosystems earned second place for its development of MyoRegulator, a noninvasive investigational device being studied as a treatment for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Using electrical stimulation delivered through surface electrodes, the technology is designed to target two drivers of ALS: motor neuron hyperexcitability and toxic protein aggregation. The device received FDA Breakthrough Device designation in December 2025. Third place went to Moleculera Biosciences , an Oklahoma City-based, commercial-stage precision neuroimmunology company focused on identifying immune-driven causes of treatment-resistant neuropsychiatric conditions. Its patented Autoimmune Brain Panel detects anti-neuronal autoantibodies and measures their effects on neuronal signaling, helping clinicians identify underlying immune dysfunction. "BioChallenge is building a global network of scientists, clinicians, founders and investors who have made their own mark on brain health and now put their time and money behind the next generation of companies in the field," said Kris Khalil, executive director of NOBIC. "This year we drew 240 applicants from 35 countries, and the six companies that pitched were as strong a field as we have ever had." This year's competition highlighted innovations spanning early diagnostics, neurological disease treatment and precision medicine, reinforcing the growing role New Orleans can play in advancing solutions to complex brain health challenges. Previous BioChallenge winners and finalists have gone on to raise millions of dollars in private investment and federal grant funding. The six finalists competed for $100,000 in cash prizes and were scored by a panel of judges from the investment, clinical and life sciences communities. The remaining finalists were Cenna Biosciences of California, Nervosave Therapeutics of France and Parley Neurotech of Colorado. The 2026 BioChallenge was presented by Sid O'Bryant, Ph.D., and the Institute for Translational Research at UNT Health Fort Worth, with lead sponsorship from Cognito Therapeutics, BioDistrict New Orleans and Answer ALS. Additional sponsors included AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly and Company, Ochsner Health's Debra H. and Robert J. Patrick Neuroscience Institute, Jones Walker, LSU Health Foundation New Orleans, Downtown Development District, New Orleans & Company, Circular Genomics, Entergy New Orleans, JPMorgan Chase and more. Their support helps provide a platform for emerging companies to gain visibility, build connections and accelerate the development of new healthcare technologies. For more information about BioChallenge and the New Orleans BioInnovation Center, visit neworleansbio.com . ### About New Orleans BioInnovation Center : The New Orleans BioInnovation Center (NOBIC) is a nonprofit business incubator focused on advancing life science entrepreneurship and technology commercialization in Louisiana. The mission of NOBIC is to create a successful biotech ecosystem by providing emerging companies with customized commercialization services, premier facilities and a comprehensive support network. Through relationships with research institutions, economic development organizations and industry stakeholders, NOBIC helps its clients de-risk novel technologies, attract funding and improve global health outcomes
AICUP Veterans Day College Survey
Mon, Nov 02, 2026 10:47 EST
AICUP Veterans Day Survey: "Serving Those Who Serve" AICUP Ranked 10th Largest "GI Bill Campus" in USA (Harrisburg, PA) - In celebration of veterans, the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania (AICUP) published its 3rd annual Veterans Day Survey, providing a glimpse of how colleges support veterans through education and re-training. Surveying 80+ independent nonprofit schools, AICUP found that: 6,398 GI Bill students enrolled at AICUP schools in Pennsylvania in the last year (2025-2026). 10th Largest "GI Bill Campus" in USA : When counting the AICUP member schools together as one "GI Bill Campus" (VA's term), AICUP ranks 10th in the nation in enrolling the most GI Bill students ( visual ). 1 in 3 veterans in Pennsylvania using GI Bill benefits choose AICUP schools to pursue their education. 99% of AICUP schools partner with the VA to work with veterans pursing their education with the GI Bill. 91% of AICUP schools offer Yellow Ribbon additional funding for veterans from the school itself. 70% of AICUP schools support ROTC officer training , either as a host or cross-town partner. 14 AICUP schools host a Veterans Lounge for student veterans to study and socialize on campus. NEW in 2026 : AICUP was asked to participate in the first-ever Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit at the US Army War College, highlighting the many contributions of the AICUP schools to national defense for an audience of defense and tech CEOs, and military and civic leaders. "One of the best ways we can support our veterans is to guide them to their next career through a top-notch education," said AICUP President Tom Foley. "Independent nonprofit colleges offer little-known and surprising benefits for veterans, like the Yellow Ribbon, which can mean more funding for a veteran's education." Surprising : VA data shows that many veterans and active service members choose for-profit schools. At least 7 of the top 20 "Largest GI Bill Campuses" according to the VA are for-profit or aligned with a for-profit, enrolling a combined total of nearly 60,000 military students. (Studies by the National Bureau of Economic Research and the U.S. Senate show diminishing returns for students who attend for-profit education programs, in contrast to the higher graduation rates and ROI found at independent nonprofit colleges and universities like those of AICUP). The 2026 AICUP survey data was sourced from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs . Visit the AICUP website for the map with the names of all 80+ AICUP member schools and the new AICUP value dashboard . For comprehensive examples of innovations and defense-adjacent majors at the independent nonprofit colleges of Pennsylvania, see the AICUP white paper , " Higher Education is the 'Secret Weapon' of National Defense ." # # # A PDF version of this news release is linked here: https://aicup.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/AICUP-Veterans-Day-2026.pdf