SGS Reports on New US CPSC Proposal Targeting Battery Safety in Micromobility Devices
Wed, Jul 08, 2026 11:46 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 089.26, summarizing the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) notice of proposed rulemaking, 16 CFR 1265, for lithium-ion batteries used in micromobility products and their electrical systems. Published on June 24, 2026, the proposed rule is intended to reduce the risks of injury and death from electric shock, fires, explosions, gas or flame expulsion, burns, overheating, smoke inhalation and thermal runaway of lithium-ion cells. The following products are covered by the proposed rule: eBikes Personal eMobility products User-replaceable battery packs eBike conversion kits Aftermarket battery chargers The CPSC is open to comments on the proposed rule until August 24, 2026. The rule will affect manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers and any entity placing the applicable products on US markets. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 089.26 includes further information on the proposed requirements. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 089.26 for more details. SGS bicycle, eBike and scooter testing services With a global network of accredited laboratories and local expertise in target markets, SGS provides unrivaled testing, inspection and certification services for bicycles, eBikes and scooters. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's bicycle and eBike services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full New US CPSC Proposal Targets Battery Safety in Micromobility Devices SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Vanessa Lin Global Ebike Product Manager Tel: +886 (2) 2299 3279 Dennis Lancion Consumer and Retail, Technical Manager, Hardlines Tel: +1 (905) 364-3757 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
July 2026 Learning Opportunities and Events at the American Marketing Association
Wed, Jul 08, 2026 11:37 EDT
For Immediate Release: July 8, 2026 Contact: Amy Gwiazdowski, agwiazdowski@ama.org July 2026 Learning Opportunities and Events at the American Marketing Association July learning opportunities: digital marketing, SEO and AEO, and AI adoption Chicago, IL -This July, the American Marketing Association (AMA) is hosting new learning opportunities for marketers. AMA's professional development offerings are designed to meet marketers where they are, whether it's looking to deepen expertise or explore the latest trends shaping the future of marketing, the goal is to enable marketers to expand their knowledge base in accessible ways. For additional information and registration details for virtual trainings, bootcamps, and conferences, visit AMA.org . If you have questions about any of AMA's learning opportunities, please reach out for more information. Virtual Trainings, Bootcamps & Webinars The Future of SEO, AI, and Lead Generation July 15, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT Virtual Training Search has changed forever now that AI overviews populate the top search results and users increasingly bypass Google entirely to ask chatbots for recommendations. In this two-hour session, Any Crestodina (Cofounder and CMO of Orbit Media) offers a practical approach to improving your brand's AI visibility both on and off your website. Participants will walk away with actionable strategy to discover what AI thinks of their brand, fill service information gaps, get cited in AI sources, and build a resilient search strategy for the modern digital era. Focus or Fail: Fixing the Priority Problem July 15, 2026 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CDT Sponsored Webinar When everything feels urgent, nothing gets done. Marketing teams are constantly juggling competing priorities and struggling to prove their real impact. This session, brought to you by Wrike, breaks down how to distinguish high-impact projects from busy work. Featuring industry experts Richard Blatcher (Director of Industry GTM at Wrike) and Andrea Fazio (Director of Marketing Operations at Raymour and Flanigan), attendees will learn how to build a repeatable prioritization framework that aligns teams about what matters most. ABM Plays Matched to What Your Buyers Are Doing Right Now July 16, 2026 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CDT Sponsored Webinar Identifying in-market accounts is only half the battle: the real challenge is executing the right play the moment a buyer signal fires. Brought to you by ZoomInfo, this session features Amy Humphrey (Manager of GTM Plays) and Amy Gabriel (Demand Generation Manager) as they break down three specific campaign plays matched to real-time buyer actions. Participants will learn how to convert competitor accounts showing migrations signals, spot expansion opportunities within their current customer base and build a tiered ABM blitz around events. Walk away with practical strategies to perfectly coordinate marketing and sales messaging so both teams move on target accounts simultaneously. Marketing Across Generations: Connecting with Gen X & Baby Boomers July 21, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT Virtual Training While many marketing teams expend their energy chasing younger demographics, Gen X and Baby Boomers represent two of the most economically powerful consumer groups in the country - yet they remain consistently underestimated and misread. Led by generational expert Dr. Meghan Grace (Research & Consultant at Grace Strategies & Insights), this two-hour session provides data-informed insights into the unique cohort cultures, lived experiences, and decision-making patterns that shape how these two older generations engage with brands. Marketers will leave with a clearer picture of where their current messaging falls short and how to refine their communication methods to authentically align with older consumer values. Digital Marketing Copywriting July 22 - September 2, 2026 Virtual Training | 6-Week Small Group Format This six-week, cohort-style program blends live instruction with self-paced learning to help intermediate-level marketers build the technical foundations and creative instincts required for repeatable, high-quality copywriting across digital platforms. Led by digital medi expert and agency founder Will Francis, the training guides participants through weekly assignments and four live sessions focusing on audience personas, brand voice, social media accessibility, and more. Marketers will walk away with an actionable understanding of the content marketing funnel, strategies to drive consumer action using emotive copy, and a refined brand voice to elevate their messaging across all digital channels. Building a Scalable Content Strategy July 23 - 30, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 12:0O PM CDT 2-part Bootcamp Content teams that produce consistently great work aren't necessarily working harder; they are operating from a clear strategy and utilizing systems that prevent burnout. Led by Karlyn Ankrom (Founder and Lead Strategist of Oh Snap! Social), this two-part bootcamp is designed to evolve content chaos into purposeful, consistent execution. Participants will learn how to define a sharp Ideal Customer Profile (ICP), conduct content audits to understand what has previously worked, and redefine what "quality content" means in an AI-saturated landscape. The workshop provides practical frameworks to transform a single anchor idea into multiple platform-specific assets, establishing a sustainable content engine that maximizes impact without exhausting resources. Three Ways Institutions Are Blocking Their Own Pipeline July 21, 2026 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CDT Sponsored Webinar Many higher education institutions and organizations inadvertently create friction in their own enrollment and talent pipelines through outdated communication structures, misaligned messaging, and soiled data. Brought to you by Salesforce, this webinar breaks down the top three operational blocks that stifle pipeline growth and prevent meaningful engagement with prospective students and candidates.Marketing and admissions professionals will learn how to identify hidden drop-off points, streamline the cross-functional journey, and deploy targeted empathetic communication strategies that keep prospects moving smoothly through the funnel. AI Adoption: From Experimentation to Operationalization (Member-Only Training) July 29, 2026 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CDT Webinar AI is quickly becoming embedded in everyday marketing, yet many teams are still figuring out what meaningful, scaled adoption looks like beyond basic content generation. Led by Susan Westwater (CEO & Co-Founder of Pragmatic Digital), this exclusive members-only training explores how marketing leaders can transition their organizations from ad-hoc AI testing to intentional operational integration. The session focuses on workflow-first thinking over tool-first thinking, teaching participants how to adapt marketing operations, apply stronger human judgement and evaluation practices to AI-assisted work, and support consistent adoption across teams with varying levels of tech readiness. LinkedIn Learning Generative AI for Marketing Professional Certificate by the AMA Online | 4 Hours | Beginner AMA's Generative AI for Marketing Professionals Certificate course is available on the LinkedIn Learning platform. Generative AI is revolutionizing marketing and content creation. This new learning path equips marketers with the essential skills they need to harness AI tools responsibly, from prompt engineering fundamentals to creating authentic content and developing strategic AI implementation plans. Learners will acquire practical applications that will help boost productivity and drive innovation in their work. Upcoming Conference 2026 AMA Summer Academic Conference July 20 (Virtual) | July 24 - 26, 2026 (In-Person) Denver, CO & Online Centered around the theme of Increasing YOUR Impact: Amplifying Scholarship, Teaching, and Organizational Leadership, this premier academic event recognizes the multi-dimensional growth required at every stage of a marketing academic's career. Co-chaired by Kay Peters (UC Davis & University of Hamburg), Kelly Hewett (Colorado State University), and Kim Whitler (University of Virginia), the conference features curated workshops, expert panels, and collaborative sessions across 18 specialized tracks - including Consumer Behavior, Big Data & AI, and Marketing Education. Attendees will have the opportunity to receive critical publication feedback from leading scholars, explore innovative pedagogical approaches, and celebrate community achievements at the AMA Academic Awards Luncheon. Select virtual programming kicks off online on July 29, followed by the comprehensive in-person experience and specialized pre-conferences in Denver. 2026 AMA Creating Meaningful Societal Impact: Transformative Consumer Research (TCR) Pre-Conference July 23, 2026 | 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM CDT Pre-Conference | Denver, CO Hosted ahead of the main conference, this interactive pre-conference gathers the global Transformative Consumer Research (TCR) community to inspire rigorous, relationally engaged scholarship that drives positive social change. Co-chaired by Dr. Alexander Mitchell and Dr. Meredith Rhoads of Butler University, the session is designed for both newcomers and seasoned scholars looking to build meaningful connections and explore impactful research methodologies. Attendees will engage with creative approaches, frameworks, and tools to help advance new and ongoing projects, leveraging TCR's 20-year legacy of empowering marketing scholars through community-building, funding, publishing opportunities, and inspired teaching. DocSIG Pre-Conference at AMA Summer Academic Conference July 24, 2026 | 7:30 AM - 12:30 PM CDT Pre-Conference | Denver, CO DocSIG's doctoral pre-conference on job market readiness is designed to equip PhD students with the clarity, confidence, and strategies needed to successfully navigate the academic job market. Through interactive sessions, candid faculty insights, and small-group mentoring, participants will gain practical guidance on positioning their research, preparing application materials, delivering compelling job talks, and succeeding in interviews. Backed by faculty ambassadors Professor Kimberly Whitler and Professor Martin Mende, this dedicated session also creates space for meaningful peer and mentor connections, helping attendees build a strong support system as they transition from doctoral training to faculty roles. 2026 AMA Bayesian Inference for Consumer Behavior Researchers Pre-Conference July 24, 2026 | 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT Pre-Conference | Denver, CO This pre-conference tutorial introduces Bayesian inference as a flexible alternative to traditional significance testing when analyzing experimental data. Built specifically for consumer behavior researchers, the session guides attendees through core concepts, explores practical applications like Bayesian ANOVA and mediation, and provides hands-on software exercises. Participants are encouraged to bring their own datasets to practice applying analytical techniques in real-time, walking away with a practical framework to elevate their data interpretation and research methodologies. 2026 AMA Marketing Educators Pre-Conference: Improving the Classroom Through Practiced Tradition and New Technology July 24, 2026 | 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM CDT Pre-Conference | Denver, CO This half-day, in-person teaching excellence workshop focuses heavily on practical classroom implementation, showing educators how to operationalize AI in their courses immediately. Featuring short teaching-tool demos, such as AI-mediated sales role plays and integrating Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) concepts, attendees will participate in guiding working sessions to build their own take-home prompts, rubrics, policies, and teaching-portfolio components. Led by veteran faculty speakers and a keynote from Professor
CUBIG recognised in two Gartner® Emerging Tech reports
Wed, Jul 08, 2026 04:01 EDT
CUBIG , the company building Syntitan, an AI-ready data operating layer for enterprise AI, today announced it has been recognised in two recent Gartner® research publications focused on the technologies helping organisations accelerate the adoption of Agentic AI. CUBIG was recognised as a Sample Provider in the 2026 Gartner Emerging Tech: AI Vendor Race: Most Prominent Use Cases in Agentic AI by Industry and identified as a Tech Innovator in the 2026 Gartner Emerging Tech: AI Vendor Race: Tech Innovators in Agentic AI - Solution Accelerators. For CUBIG, these insights highlight the growing industry focus on addressing one of the most persistent barriers to enterprise AI adoption: the state of enterprise data itself. For many organisations, the challenge is not a lack of data. It is an abundance of enterprise data that remains difficult to use safely, reliably and consistently within AI systems. While AI capabilities continue to advance rapidly, many enterprises still struggle to move AI initiatives beyond proof-of-concept and into production. Their data is often fragmented, restricted by regulation or policy, uneven in quality, or disconnected from the workflows where AI is expected to operate. As a result, organisations face significant challenges deploying AI and agentic systems in production environments. CUBIG believes the latest Gartner insights reflects this shift in enterprise priorities. The Tech Innovators research highlights technologies that provide enterprise context, semantic data layers, governance and operational orchestration as becoming increasingly important for production-scale Agentic AI. According to Gartner, "Vendors that integrate enterprise context deliver greater value than those that only focus on model optimization". Gartner also predicts: "By 2027, 40% of enterprises will demote or decommission autonomous AI agents due to governance gaps identified only after production incidents occur". CUBIG believes these findings reinforce the growing need for what it describes as the missing operational data layer for enterprise AI. Through Syntitan, CUBIG enables organisations to prepare, validate and connect enterprise data states for training, evaluation, execution and governance across AI workflows. The platform brings together capabilities including DTS, which transforms restricted, scarce or low-quality enterprise data into AI-ready states while preserving its statistical structure, and LLM capsule, a context-preserving data layer that lets AI work on sensitive operational data that cannot move in raw form, reconstructing usable results inside the organisation's own environment. "Enterprise AI does not fail only because models are incapable. It often fails because the data state behind an AI run was never designed to be reused, traced or reproduced," said Bae Ho, Founder and CEO of CUBIG. "Organisations have invested heavily in data platforms, governance frameworks and AI infrastructure. Yet there remains a critical gap between managed data and operational AI. We believe this recognition from Gartner reinforces the need for an AI-ready data operating layer that makes enterprise data usable, traceable and ready for AI workflows." The Solution Accelerators research also highlights a deployment of CUBIG's technology within a leading South Korean life insurer. According to Gartner, "The solution increased classification accuracy by 85.9% to 90%, a 200% improvement over rule-based systems' 50% to 60% accuracy", enabling the retention of high-utility behavioural insights beyond the six-month legal limit. "Agentic AI may change how organisations operate, but autonomous systems are only as reliable as the data states they run on," added Ho. "As enterprises move from experimentation to production, data readiness, traceability and operational trust become foundational requirements. AI-ready data is not just a preparation step. It is part of the operating layer for scalable enterprise AI." CUBIG has recently expanded its international market presence as demand grows for technologies that help enterprises bridge the gap between data infrastructure and real-world AI deployment. The company works with organisations operating in regulated and data-intensive sectors including financial services, healthcare, telecommunications, manufacturing and the public sector.
Dubai's Majida Housni Named to eXp Realty's International Agent Advisory Council
Wed, Jul 08, 2026 02:59 EDT
Dubai luxury specialist Majida Housni named to eXp Realty's International Agent Advisory Council, joining nine other agents worldwide in advising international leadership on policy, technology and culture. eXp Realty has named Majida Housni, founder of The Ledger Group and one of Dubai's most recognised luxury property specialists, to its International Agent Advisory Council (IAAC), making her the market's representative on the ten-agent body that advises eXp's executive leadership on policy, technology and company culture. Housni joins nine other newly named agents from Australia, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Brazil, Ecuador, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Spain and Italy. They will sit alongside continuing IAAC member Alexandre Segues of France. The council draws agents from across eXp's 26 international markets and reports directly to eXp International's executive team. Members vet new technology before it reaches agents, give feedback on policy and training platforms, and push for programmes that reflect what agents actually need on the ground. The appointment comes as eXp Dubai marks its fourth year in the market. Since launching in December 2022 as eXp's 24th global market, the office has grown to more than 60 agents, with Dubai's prime residential segment delivering average quarterly growth of 2.7% between Q1 2025 and Q1 2026. "A Dubai voice on the IAAC could not come at a more relevant moment," said Dounia Fadi, Country Leader, eXp Realty Dubai. "Our own research shows just how fast this market moves. Jumeirah Village Circle alone now accounts for almost one in every 10 homes listed for sale across the emirate, and communities like Business Bay and Dubai South have grown into some of the busiest in the city. Majida understands that pace better than most. She has built her business across Dubai, Beverly Hills and Miami, working with buyers who expect global standards and local expertise in the same conversation. That is exactly the perspective our international network needs at the table right now, someone who can speak to what's happening on the ground here and translate it for agents right across eXp." Housni founded The Ledger Group after building a career spanning Dubai, Beverly Hills and Miami, and has represented high-profile international buyers across all three markets. She is also known across eXp's network for her focus on personal branding, regularly sharing insight on how agents can build visibility in competitive, high-value markets. "The clients we work with today don't think in borders, they think in lifestyle. Someone buying in Dubai is often the same person weighing Miami or Beverly Hills six months later. The IAAC gives us a real seat at the table to make sure eXp's global tools reflect how international buyers actually move, not just how one market operates," said Housni. "eXp's global footprint is the platform, what agents do with it is the differentiator. I'm looking forward to helping shape how eXp supports agents who operate the way I do: across markets, across services, for the same client." eXp also thanked its outgoing IAAC members for their service: Lizna Nel (South Africa, outgoing Chair), Shashank Chauhan (India), Armando Sacco (Italy) and Leesa Booysen (Portugal). "Dubai has become one of our most closely watched markets, and Majida's voice on the IAAC means the agents shaping our global strategy are hearing directly from someone living that growth in real time. That's how we keep the network honest," concluded Sarah Hutchinson, VP of International Marketing, eXp Realty.
Cape Town's Keegen Bain Named to eXp Realty's International Agent Advisory Council
Wed, Jul 08, 2026 02:00 EDT
Cape Town luxury agent Keegen Bain becomes the first South African named to eXp Realty's International Agent Advisory Council in over a year, giving the country's largest independent real estate agency a direct line to global leadership on policy, tech and culture decisions. eXp Realty has named Cape Town luxury property specialist Keegen Bain to its International Agent Advisory Council (IAAC), making him the only South African on the ten-agent body that advises eXp's international leadership on policy, technology and comexp inpany culture. Bain, eXp Realty South Africa's young entrepreneurs and a near-decade veteran of Cape Town's high-end property market, joins nine newly named agents from Australia, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Brazil, Ecuador, Dubai, the United Kingdom, Spain and Italy. They will sit alongside continuing IAAC member Alexandre Segues of France. The council draws agents from across eXp's 26 international markets and reports directly to eXp's executive team. Members vet new technology before it reaches agents, give feedback on policy and training platforms, and push for programmes that reflect what agents actually need on the ground. The appointment comes as eXp Realty South Africa recently hit 1,400 agents nationally, a run of growth that has put it among the country's largest independent, non-franchised real estate companies and made South Africa eXp International's biggest market by agent count outside North America. "Keegen has built his business on trust and results, and that's exactly the perspective our leadership needs to hear from," said Andrew Thompson, Country Leader, eXp Realty South Africa. "He knows what agents on the ground are dealing with, from shifting buyer demand in the Cape to the tools they need to close deals faster. Having a South African voice back at that table matters, especially at this stage of our growth here." "The IAAC exists so that decisions made at headquarters actually hold up in markets like South Africa," said Sarah Hutchinson, VP of International Marketing, eXp Realty. "Keegen brings a track record in one of the most competitive luxury markets on the continent. That's the kind of firsthand experience that shapes better policy, not just for South Africa, but across every market we operate in." Bain's appointment lands at a strong moment for Cape Town's property market. Semigration from Gauteng and other provinces has kept demand high in the city's prime suburbs, where vacancy rates have dropped to their lowest recorded levels and homes in sought-after areas are selling within three to five weeks. "This appointment isn't just about me, it's about giving South African agents a seat at the table. Our market is innovative, resilient and growing rapidly, and I'm excited to help influence the technology, training and policies that will empower agents worldwide. I'm also incredibly grateful to Lizna Nel for the path she has paved for so many of us. Her leadership, mentorship and unwavering belief in people have created opportunities that have helped shape my journey, and I'm honoured to continue building on that foundation while representing South Africa on the global stage," said Bain. eXp also thanked its outgoing IAAC members for their service: Lizna Nel (South Africa, outgoing Chair), Shashank Chauhan (India), Armando Sacco (Italy) and Leesa Booysen (Portugal). "Chairing the IAAC has been one of the great privileges of my career. The seat is never about the person who holds it, it is about giving South African agents a voice at the global table whilst learning and bringing global experience into the South African Market, and I hand that voice to Keegen with complete confidence. My thanks to our South African Team and to our Global Leadership, both who are changing the game for real estate professionals across the world. South Africa is in strong hands." concluded Nel.
Manning Family Children's announces 2nd annual Louisiana Legacy celebration to be held Oct. 1 at the Orpheum Theater
Tue, Jul 07, 2026 15:00 EDT
Manning Family Children's announced today the 2nd annual Louisiana Legacy celebration will take place Thursday, Oct. 1 at the Orpheum Theater. The signature fundraising event will raise vital funds for a new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) which supports the hospital's longstanding commitment to advance the health and wellbeing of Louisiana's children. Tickets are now on sale. The inaugural event was timed with the hospital's renaming to Manning Family Children's in 2025 and helped usher in the beginning of a bold new vision to make Louisiana a national leader in child health. "Our inaugural Louisiana Legacy celebration helped raise more than $3M - which is an amazing reflection of our community's support that we aim to build upon in 2026," said Archie Manning, the hospital's namesake and legendary Ole Miss and New Orleans Saints quarterback. "This year, funds raised will be designated in support of the new, 60-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Manning Family Children's - a transformational project that will serve as a lifeline of care for our littlest Louisianans, helping ensure the future health and vibrancy of our state and region." Louisiana Legacy will feature gourmet food and cocktails, a fireside chat with members of the Manning family and special guests, along with live entertainment for approximately 500 patrons and supporters. The event will be co-chaired by Courtney and Ted Le Clercq and Tina and Barry Kern. Olivia and Archie Manning and Ellen and Cooper Manning will help host the celebratory occasion as honorary co-chairs. Annually, a 'Louisiana Legacy' honoree will be selected for the significant impact he or she has made on child wellbeing across the state and region. The 2026 Louisiana Legacy Award recipient will be named in the coming weeks, honoring an influential Louisianan whose steadfast commitment has helped improve the health and wellbeing of children and families across Louisiana. "The Louisiana Legacy celebration was created to honor the defining moments and leaders who shape our state and region, while strengthening the hospital's more than 70-year legacy of delivering lifesaving and lifechanging care for all children," said Lucio A. Fragoso, President and CEO of Manning Family Children's. "Community support through the 2026 event will help scale the vital role we play in providing the highest level of care for Louisiana's tiniest and most fragile babies - and there is no greater cause to champion than this." For more than 70 years, Manning Family Children's has proudly served as Louisiana's only, freestanding, comprehensive children's hospital with more than 600 pediatric-trained providers and 3,000 employees solely dedicated to the care of kids. In addition to comprehensive services offered at its main campus in New Orleans, Children's operates a robust network of more than 30 satellite locations, pediatric affiliations across Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and robust and long-community programs designed to meet the health needs of the diverse communities it serves. At the heart of its mission, Manning Family Children's is committed to delivering expert care for every child, every time - regardless of the family's ability to pay.
Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taaʿam Commissions Yaqui Artist Marcelino C. Flores III to Create Original Mural for New Tucson Property
Tue, Jul 07, 2026 13:00 EDT
Old Pascua Community Native Painter Brings Yoeme Oral Tradition and Sonoran Desert Imagery to the Interior of the Tribe's Third Gaming Property, Opening November 15, 2026 Casino Del Sol, the award-winning resort enterprise owned and operated by the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, today announced the commission of Yaqui contemporary painter Marcelino C. Flores III to create an original mural for Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taaʿam - the Tribe's third gaming property, which is set to open November 15, 2026 at 1055 W. Grant Road at Interstate 10 in Tucson. The work, titled Aniam Yo'orine - Yoeme for "Respect the Worlds" - will draw from Pascua Yaqui oral tradition, the natural abundance of the Sonoran Desert, and the five worlds at the heart of Yoeme spiritual life. Flores is a lifelong member of the Old Pascua Community of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, where the murals of his neighborhood first sparked his passion for painting. Growing up immersed in the oral storytelling traditions of the Yoeme people, he developed a practice of visualizing those stories, embedding them and the cultural values they carry directly into his paintings. His work is rooted in Sonoran Desert landscapes, rendered through the lens of Yoeme cosmology. "I feel many of the elements, images, and stories I have been telling in my works for years are coming together in Aniam Yo'orine ," Flores said. A recognized figure in Tucson's cultural community, Flores has also been featured as a folk artist at Tucson Meet Yourself, the region's celebrated annual multicultural festival, where he has represented the Yaqui/Yoeme community in the Pascua Yaqui Contemporary and Tribal Nations showcases. Flores cites his elder and mentor Felipe Molina as a profound influence on his artistic vision and cultural grounding. Molina is a renowned Yaqui scholar, poet, and co-author of the seminal work Flower World: Yaqui Deer Songs/Maso Bwikam , as well as the recent Ethnoecology of the Yaquis . At the center of Aniam Yo'orine are the five worlds of Yoeme tradition: Huya Ania (the wilderness world), Tuka Ania (the night world), Tenku Ania (the dream world), Yo Ania (the enchanted world), and Sewa Ania (the flower world). Drawing on more than eight oral stories from his upbringing in the Old Pascua Community, the mural weaves together more than thirty animals significant to the Sonoran Desert and flowers spanning the full breadth of the composition. Its inspiration is the Enchanted Waterfall in Old Pascua and the lessons Flores absorbed as a youth: respect for all living beings, the power of hard work over shortcuts, and the promise of blessings that await in the flower world. "When we began thinking about who would create this work, the answer was clear from the start: a Tribal artist, from this community. Marcelino's work doesn't just reflect Yoeme culture - it lives inside it," said Amanda Sampson Lomayesva, Interim CEO of Casino Del Sol . "That depth of meaning is exactly what we want guests to experience when they enter Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taaʿam." The mural carries particular resonance given its setting: Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taaʿam, whose very name is Yoeme for "Three Suns," sits on Old Pascua Community land, the same community where Flores was born and raised, and where the Enchanted Waterfall that anchors his work flows. The commission deepens an intentional thread running through Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taaʿam and reflects the Pascua Yaqui Tribe's commitment to grounding every dimension of the new property in its cultural heritage. The signature 26-foot copper dome, already visible from I-10, evokes the sun rising over the desert landscape, while the property's signature restaurant, OP Grill (Old Pascua Grill), honors that same community by name. Flores's mural extends that vision inward, bringing the living world of Yoeme storytelling to the walls guests will walk among when the property opens this November. "There is a deep sense of pride in seeing a Yoeme artist from the Old Pascua community commissioned to create a work that will welcome visitors to Vahi Taaʿam. There is a special significance to this partnership, as Marcelino's artwork will stand on land that is deeply connected to our history and our people," said Julian Hernandez, Chairman of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe . "Vahi Taaʿam was intentionally designed to celebrate and reflect our culture, from its Yoeme name to the artwork and spaces that honor the Old Pascua community. Through Aniam Yo'orine , Marcelino is creating a powerful expression of the values that have guided our people for generations and continue to guide our vision for the future. It is important that our young people see their language, stories, traditions, and worldview reflected in places like this. By investing in Yoeme cultural expression today, we help ensure that future generations remain connected to who they are and carry these teachings forward with pride." "Marcelino's art reflects the richness of the Yaqui culture and bridges where we come from to where we are going. I love his passion and vision," said Lesah Sesma, General Manager, Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taaʿam . "As a youth I would visualize the oral stories in my mind. Growing up, I was inspired by the many murals in our community - most importantly, by the stories they held about our origins, our beliefs, and our culture as Yoemem," said Marcelino C. Flores III . "I want to express my sincerest gratitude to the Pascua Yaqui Tribal Council and the Executive Leadership of Casino Del Sol for entrusting me with the opportunity of a lifetime. Lios em Chiokoe Uttesiavu!" - a closing prayer in Yoeme meaning, "may the creator be with you all," a blessing exchanged as one parts ways.
SGS hosts webinar on advanced textile functions and performance assessment for wellbeing and protection
Tue, Jul 07, 2026 11:02 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is delighted to host a complimentary webinar titled 'Advanced textile functions and performance assessment for wellbeing and protection' on July 23, 2026. Athleisure clothing, such as leggings, yoga pants and joggers, has become increasingly popular, as consumers seek garments that can be worn for both athletic and leisure use. In a competitive market, performance claims must be verifiable. Therefore, apparel must be tested to ensure the accuracy and reliability of performance characteristics such as breathability. In this complimentary webinar, SGS experts will provide an overview of market trends in wellbeing and protection clothing. Testing methods for characteristics such as breathability and insulation will be explored, along with ultraviolet protection and antimicrobial performance. Brand trust and consumer loyalty are built on transparent, trusted evidence. SGS testing services offer rigorous assessments for all forms of active leisure and comfort wear, and a Q&A session will enable attendees to engage with expert presenters and explore topics relevant to real-world business environments. This webinar is designed for technicians, designers, merchandisers and product compliance teams within the softlines industry. It takes place on July 23, 2026, with one session at 10:00 am Central European Summer Time (CEST) and a second at 4:30 pm CEST. Stakeholders are encouraged to register now to secure their place.
Babies and Toddlers Raise Over £450,000 for Tommy's in Nationwide Sensathon
Tue, Jul 07, 2026 10:37 EDT
Babies and toddlers may be too young to know what 'fundraising' means, but that didn't stop them raising nearly half a million pounds for pregnancy and baby charity Tommy's. Families at Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense classes across the UK have raised more than £450,000 for Tommy's by taking part in this year's Sensathon. Classes up and down the country took part in their own way, but the goal was shared: turn playtime into something that could genuinely help other families. For a few weeks, usual class routines gave way to sponsored sensory challenges - music, movement, dancing, and no shortage of laughter, as toddlers wobbled through simple activities while parents cheered from the sidelines. Every pound raised goes towards Tommy's work to prevent miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth - and to support families affected by pregnancy and baby loss. The campaign is the latest chapter in a long-running partnership between WOW World Group and Tommy's. For many class leaders, it's personal - plenty have supported parents through pregnancy loss, or celebrated babies born after difficult pregnancies. Dr Lin Day, founder of Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense, said, "It's impossible not to be moved by what our families have achieved together. Parents come to our classes to spend time with their children - but year after year, they also show up for families they'll never meet. "Raising more than £450,000 is a brilliant achievement. What stands out most, though, is the kindness behind it. Every sponsored challenge a baby or toddler completes represents hope for a family facing heartbreak, and we're proud to stand with Tommy's in that mission." Kath Abrahams, Chief Executive of Tommy's, said, "We're enormously grateful to all the children and families who took part in Sensathon, and to the WOW World Group and its team for hosting events around the UK for us once again. "All of the money raised will help us move further and faster towards ending the devastation caused by pregnancy and baby loss. We're delighted it sparked lots of fun at the same time as achieving so much for Tommy's, so that we can help even more families." The top-fundraising franchises this year were Baby Sensory South Tyneside (£11,789), Baby Sensory Chester-le-Street (£10,566) and Baby Sensory Grantham (£9,541) - three of hundreds of classes nationwide that pushed the total past £450,000. For more information on WOW World Group, visit www.wowworldgroup.com . For more information about Tommy's, visit www.tommys.org .
Adept Armor Launches the Nova Titanium™ Combat Helmet: A True Metal Ballistic Helmet at Composite-Helmet Weight
Tue, Jul 07, 2026 10:36 EDT
The titanium evolution of the NovaSteel™ platform delivers rated 9mm protection at 920 grams all-in, low backface deformation, edge-to-edge coverage, and an indefinite shelf life at roughly a quarter the price of premium polyethylene helmets. Adept Armor , pioneers in next-gen protective solutions, today announce the launch of the Nova Titanium™ Combat Helmet , a high-cut ballistic helmet drawn from a single continuous shell of the company's proprietary 260LC™ toughened titanium. At 920 grams (2.0 lbs.) all-in in size L/XL (shell, pads, retention, and standard hardware included), Nova Titanium delivers the protection and durability of a metal helmet at a weight previously reserved for premium composite helmets, and within an ounce of a non-ballistic bump helmet. The launch marks a deliberate challenge to the premium polyethylene (PE) helmet category, which has defined lightweight ballistic head protection for the better part of a decade. Adept's argument is direct: a formed titanium shell can match the weight of the lightest elite PE helmets while beating them on backface deformation, damage tolerance, environmental durability, and service life at a fraction of the price. Nova Titanium is the titanium evolution of Adept's established NovaSteel™ metal-helmet line and is fully compatible with the entire NovaSteel accessory ecosystem. The core achievement is weight. A metal ballistic helmet has historically meant a heavy one. 260LC, Adept's proprietary titanium armor alloy, was engineered to combine two properties that normally pull against each other, helmet-scale formability and ballistic toughness, allowing a continuous combat-profile shell to be drawn from solid titanium with no resin matrix holding the ballistic structure together. At 920 grams all-in (L/XL), Nova Titanium sits at or below the published complete-system weights of the lightest premium PE helmets, including the Team Wendy EXFIL Ballistic SL (1.01-1.05 kg), Ops-Core FAST SF (1.06 kg), MTEK FLUX Ballistic (1.0 kg), and Galvion Caiman Ballistic (1.13-1.23 kg), and within roughly 30 grams (one ounce) of the non-ballistic Ops-Core FAST Bump XL. In short: near-bump-helmet weight, with real rated 9mm protection, at the weight of helmets costing three to four times as much. The helmet ships in M and L/XL in a high-cut profile sized to clear modern hearing protection. Nova Titanium is rated to stop 9mm FMJ at 400 m/s, or 1,312 ft/s, with low backface deformation. NIJ 0106.01, the only NIJ standard written specifically for ballistic helmets, contains no "Level IIIA"; helmets marketed as "NIJ IIIA" generally borrow terminology from body armor standards or material-level test conventions. In practice, most premium PE helmets publish their actual 9mm data at 364-365 m/s (1,195 ft/s) under modified military protocols, sometimes with relaxed deformation allowances of up to 29mm. Nova Titanium's 400 m/s rating is roughly 10 percent higher in velocity and about 21 percent higher in projectile energy than that published test point, with BFD usually in the single digits. Because the shell is solid metal, not a resin stack, Nova Titanium offers continuous protective coverage to the rim; no unprotected edge band, no composite-style weak zone where the ballistic material can fold over upon impact. Titanium does not delaminate: a strike may leave a visible mark, but it does not create an invisible laminate failure plane, so damage can be seen and evaluated in the field, and multi-hit durability holds up. That same metal construction gives the shell an indefinite service life. Where premium composite helmets carry a five-year clock, resin ages, laminates can hide post-impact damage, and shells generally aren't certified past five years, titanium does not rust, delaminate, or degrade under ordinary UV, solvents, sweat, rain, seawater, or temperature swings. Pads and soft goods are replaceable wear items; the shell endures for decades. For procurement buyers, that reframes the helmet as a total-cost-of-ownership decision rather than a recurring replacement line item. Nova Titanium is built around the complete NovaSteel accessory ecosystem, so every module carries across the line: the Combat Circlet (NVG shroud and rails mounted through existing retention holes; no new holes drilled), the Ballistic Mandible and Gen 2 flip mandible and face shield sets, the helmet tail for nape protection, NVG shroud and rails, and a forthcoming blast liner. Accessories bought for a NovaSteel helmet transfer directly to Nova Titanium. Where premium PE ballistic helmets typically retail for $1,400 to $2,100, Nova Titanium is $390, roughly a quarter to a fifth of premium PE pricing. Adept's position is that the high cost of lightweight ballistic head protection has been a primary barrier keeping helmets off the heads of the officers and operators most likely to need them. "For years, buyers have been handed a false choice," said Jake Ganor, Founder of Adept Armor. "Either a light helmet that's expensive, soft-shelled, and expires in five years, or a tough metal helmet that's heavier than the most modern composite options. Nova Titanium refuses that trade: A true metal helmet, drawn from one continuous titanium shell, that weighs what the best composite helmets weigh, deforms less under a hit, covers edge to edge, and doesn't carry a best-before date. This is by far the lightest metal helmet we've ever built, at a price that finally puts hard-shell head protection within the reach of the people." Nova Titanium arrives as law enforcement head protection is being rethought. The DEA-FBI Ballistic Helmet Protocol of 2024 reframed the police helmet as a complete system built around pistol-caliber threats, exposing the real barriers to wider adoption: weight, price, backface deformation, and service life. Nova Titanium is engineered to address all four at once and to serve military, tactical, and prepared-civilian users for whom the same trade-offs apply. The Nova Titanium Combat Helmet is now available worldwide to commercial, law enforcement, military, and tactical buyers at http://www.ade.pt and through Adept Armor's sales channels. An independent ballistic resistance test report is available on request. Nova Titanium Combat Helmet Specifications: Weight: 920 g (2.0 lbs.) all in, size L/XL Shell Material: 260LC proprietary toughened titanium armor alloy Ballistic Rating: 9mm FMJ at 400 m/s (1,312 ft/s), low backface deformation Cut: High-cut, headset-compatible, accessory-ready Coverage: Full edge-to-edge metal protection to the rim Size: M and L/XL Color: Black, Green, Raw Titanium Service Life: Indefinite titanium shell service life; pads and soft goods replaceable Compatibility: Full NovaSteel accessory ecosystem: Combat Circlet, ballistic mandible, Gen 2 flip mandible and face shield sets, helmet tail, NVG shroud, rails, and blast liner. Future titanium accessories forthcoming. Price: $390/helmet For more information on Adept Armor, visit its website or follow along on Instagram or YouTube .
Why More Businesses Are Stress-Testing Their Supply Chains
Tue, Jul 07, 2026 03:14 EDT
Pallet Truck Shop, the UK's largest supplier of pallet and sack trucks, says a growing number of businesses are taking a closer look at their supply chains as resilience becomes a board-level priority across the retail, logistics and manufacturing sectors. After years of disruption caused by global events, transport delays, labour shortages and shifting consumer demand, many organisations are moving beyond traditional risk management and actively stress-testing their operations. The aim is simple: identify weaknesses before they become costly problems. While much of the discussion around supply chain resilience focuses on suppliers, transport networks and inventory planning, Pallet Truck Shop believes that businesses are increasingly recognising the importance of what happens inside their own facilities. The ability to move, process and dispatch goods efficiently during periods of disruption is a critical part of continuity planning. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Truck Shop, said, "A few years ago, most conversations about supply chain resilience focused on what was happening outside the warehouse gates. "Today, businesses are taking a much broader view. They are asking whether their own operations can cope if demand suddenly spikes, deliveries arrive late, or staffing levels come under pressure." Internal handling capacity is increasingly being examined as part of these reviews. Pallet Truck Shop is seeing growing interest from businesses reviewing the condition and availability of their manual handling equipment as part of resilience planning. Reliable pallet trucks, stackers and table trucks provide operational flexibility and help teams respond quickly when unexpected challenges arise. "It doesn't matter how strong your supplier relationships are if goods cannot move efficiently once they arrive on site," Chesworth added. "When businesses stress-test their operations, they often discover that manual handling equipment plays a much bigger role than they realised in maintaining productivity and keeping orders flowing." Many warehouses have become leaner in recent years, with tighter inventories, faster fulfilment targets and reduced spare capacity. While efficient under normal conditions, these environments can be more vulnerable when disruptions occur. Equipment shortages, ageing pallet trucks or insufficient handling capacity can quickly create bottlenecks when operations come under strain. To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk.
'Maxxing' Could Be Sabotaging Your Health and Wellness Goals
Tue, Jul 07, 2026 02:00 EDT
Ohio State expert offer alternatives to online health fads that actually work Key takeaways "Maxxing" trends are flooding social media, promoting extreme diet, fitness, sleep and supplement routines. Ohio State experts warn they may do harm, from nutrient deficiencies to toxic supplement levels. Doctors recommend proven habits instead, including nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management and social connection. Social media feeds are flooded with influencers and brands touting the benefits of maximizing your health to the fullest. If something catches your eye and you click on it, the algorithm will serve up additional "maxxing" content on that topic. The flood of messages can make it tempting to try a "maxxing" trend, but the medical experts at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center say not so fast. "Often, there's not enough evidence to know whether these health practices are actually beneficial," said Alison MacKinlay, MD , family and lifestyle medicine physician and clinical associate professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine . "Depending on the trend, you may not realize you could be causing harm down the road." What is "maxxing"? "Maxxing" is a trend promoting extreme ways to optimize your physical and mental health. Examples include: Health-maxxing: Intense combinations of diet, exercise and sleep that may include tracking apps and devices aimed at improving physical health Wellness-maxxing: Applying a variety of health and wellness strategies for better health and mental well-being Strength-maxxing: Adopting an extreme workout regimen to improve physical strength and appearance Protein-maxxing: Eating high amounts of protein-rich foods and supplements to increase muscle mass "Extreme elimination diets can increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies or cause anxiety around food," MacKinlay said. "Taking excessive amounts of certain supplements can reach toxic levels so it's important to have lab work done to monitor levels." MacKinlay adds, "If you're spending money on these trends and not having the benefit that you desire or it's causing you physical harm or stress, stop. Instead put your time and money into something that actually helps the health concern." How can people separate fact from fiction? MacKinlay recommends people seek out research-based strategies to improve their health and manage chronic disease. This starts with a visit to your doctor. "It's good to bring these things up during medical visits," MacKinlay said. "It means you want to understand and take an effort towards better managing your health. My role as a healthcare provider is to listen for red flags, educate and share decision making to help you choose the best path." What is lifestyle medicine? In addition to traditional medicine that offers necessary prescriptions and procedures, MacKinlay's practice focuses on six lifestyle areas that directly influence long-term health: Nutrition: Emphasizing whole, plant-predominant foods Physical activity: Encouraging regular, sustainable movement Sleep: Promoting restorative sleep habits Stress reduction: Teaching resilience and mindfulness techniques Substance avoidance: Supporting reduction or elimination of risky substances Social connection: Fostering meaningful relationships and support systems "We focus on different aspects of nutrition, physical activity, stress management, sleep and social connection as the big pillars of lifestyle medicine," MacKinlay said. "Starting with small goals and scheduling things in the same way we brush our teeth every morning helps form habits and we build from there to achieve health and wellness goals. Everyone is different. There is no easy one size fits all like we see on social media."
From Lost Credits to Success: Valdez Educational Services Celebrates Madera Students' Achievements
Mon, Jul 06, 2026 09:45 EDT
MADERA, Calif. - Valdez Educational Services honored dozens of students for academic achievement at its fifth annual Celebration of Excellence, held recently at the Madera Municipal Golf Course. Valdez Educational Services awarded two $500 scholarships and recognized students, tutors and district staff for a year of academic gains. Chad Brammer, co-founder and president of Valdez Educational Services, welcomed an overflow crowd of family members, students, staff and Madera Unified School District (MUSD) leadership. He asked students to stand and be recognized, telling the audience,"... the evening is intended to celebrate their growth and effort over the past year." Katherine Valdez, Tutor/Mentor and Intervention Specialist, presented the first $500 scholarship to Jordan Quintana, a student recognized for academic improvement in writing and mathematics, while balancing coursework with extracurricular activities. She said the award represented "not only recognition of past performance, but an investment in Jordan's future and potential." Jordan's mother told attendees that the family had seen a marked improvement in her son's confidence after months of study supported by the Valdez program. The second $500 scholarship was presented to Uriel Matias Salazar. His tutor/mentor was Stephanie Evans, who is an Extended Learning Opportunity (ELO) Tutor and Intervention Specialist with Valdez Educational Services, who supports a third-grade English Language Learner classroom at Sierra Vista Elementary School. Evans began working with Uriel in December 2025, when he was struggling with foundational mathematics. By the time of the celebration, she said Uriel had grown significantly in self-confidence and math proficiency. Evans said she was extremely proud of Uriel's progress. https://youtu.be/zcWWuLlh1Rw Valdez Educational Services' Madera-area Program Manager, Ernest Valdez, recognized the organization's tutors and mentors for their dedicated work throughout the year. Several parents credited Valdez tutors with helping their children succeed, including students with diverse learning needs, and described the relationship between families and Valdez staff as central to their children's progress. Alyson Crafton, director of student services at MUSD, thanked Valdez staff for their individualized approach to supporting students. "That's so unique and so dedicated to really knowing the child, the whole child," Crafton said. She also praised students directly for their commitment. "You work so hard in school and welcome these people into your home to work with you some more, because you want to get better," she said...prompting a round of applause from the audience. Katherine Valdez, a tutor/mentor and intervention specialist on the Valdez staff, said parent encouragement, school engagement and community advocacy all contribute to stronger academic outcomes for students. She went on to say that student growth is most sustainable when schools, families and community partners work together, framing the celebration as both a recognition of the year's achievements and a reaffirmation of continued investment in students. Chad Brammer ended the event by saying, "This Celebration of Excellence reflects our ongoing commitment to academic support models that help students build confidence, improve performance, and pursue future educational opportunities." For more information, contact Eva Valdez at (909) 362-3620 or Info@ValdezEducation.com. About Valdez Educational Services Valdez Educational Services provides tutoring, mentoring, and student support to improve academic outcomes across school districts, including San Bernardino Unified, Madera Unified, and Victorville Unified. Services are free when district-funded; otherwise, payment options are available, and scholarships are available for low-income families. Valdez Educational Services is headquartered in San Bernardino and has offices in Madera, CA.
TASK FORCE GARRISON AND THE RETIRED INVESTIGATORS GUILD LAUNCH EXPANDED BRIGHT LIGHT CONTINUUM EFFORT TO ADVANCE POW/MIA ACCOUNTING MISSION
Mon, Jul 06, 2026 07:25 EDT
Task Force Garrison (TFG) and The Retired Investigators Guild (RIG) today announced a significant expansion of the Bright Light Continuum Initiative, a collaborative effort focused on honoring, locating, and accounting for American service members who remain missing from the conflicts in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. At a time when public awareness of the POW/MIA issue continues to fade from national attention, the Bright Light Continuum Initiative seeks to renew focus on one of America's longest-standing commitments: bringing home those who never returned and pursuing answers for the families who continue to wait. The initiative brings together military veterans, retired homicide investigators, historians, researchers, and private-sector partners in a coordinated effort dedicated to preserving historical truth, supporting ongoing recovery and accountability efforts, and educating future generations about the enduring legacy of America's missing service members. More than fifty years after the Vietnam War, over 1,500 Americans remain unaccounted for across Southeast Asia. Bright Light Continuum was created to ensure that these men are not reduced to statistics or forgotten chapters in history. Through educational outreach, strategic partnerships, fundraising initiatives, historical research, and support for field operations, the program aims to build a growing coalition of organizations and individuals committed to advancing the POW/MIA mission. "Every unresolved case represents a family that never received complete answers and a promise that remains unfinished," said Jeff Munks, Chief Operating Officer of The Retired Investigators Guild. "The Bright Light Continuum is about bringing together the skills, experience, and determination necessary to continue pursuing those answers. We owe it to these men, their families, and the nation they served to keep moving forward." Unlike many awareness campaigns that end with recognition, Bright Light Continuum is designed to support tangible action. "For many Americans, the POW/MIA flag has become a symbol they pass every day without fully understanding its meaning," said Nico Sunseri, Chief Operating Officer of Task Force Garrison. "Behind every name is a Marine, Soldier, Sailor, or Airman whose story remains unfinished. Bright Light Continuum exists to ensure those stories continue to be told, that their sacrifices are remembered, and that every available avenue is explored in the pursuit of answers. We believe that commitment does not expire with time." As the initiative continues to grow, Task Force Garrison and The Retired Investigators Guild will expand public awareness campaigns, educational content, fundraising efforts, and strategic partnerships designed to strengthen support for the broader POW/MIA mission. "There are men who boarded helicopters, crossed borders, answered the call of their nation, and never came home. Their families did not get closure. Their brothers-in-arms did not get answers. And the debt owed to them did not disappear with the passing of years," said Mike Marty, Chief Executive Officer of Task Force Garrison and The Retired Investigators Guild. "The world has moved on. History books have been written. Generations have come and gone. But for America's missing, the mission remains unfinished. Bright Light Continuum exists because we reject the idea that time can erase responsibility. We will continue to pursue the truth, preserve their stories, and honor their sacrifice, not because it is easy, not because it is popular, but because it is right. Until every possible lead is exhausted, every question answered, and every warrior accounted for, we will not stop."
Cimarron Firearms Celebrates American Patriots with 250th Commemorative Frontier Rifle
Mon, Jul 06, 2026 07:25 EDT
Five years after Lexington and Concord, the British Army began its Southern Campaign, starting in South Carolina. But it was on October 7, 1780, that British Major Patrick Ferguson, a favorite of Cornwallis', met his match on a rocky ledge in the Battle of Kings Mountain. It was "that turn of the tide of success which terminated the Revolutionary War," Thomas Jefferson would later write. Over one thousand militiamen, not Continental soldiers, but average hunters, farmers, and woodsmen, came together to oust the British military in a decisive battle that turned the tide of the Revolutionary War. In honor of these true American Patriots, Cimarron Firearms , the premier name in authentic Old West firearm replicas, introduces the 250 th Commemorative Frontier Rifle. Cimarron's beautifully figured maple stock is adorned with a left-side brass plate featuring the Liberty Bell "Let Freedom Ring." The brass patch box features a Betsy Ross flag, two galloper cannons, crossed sabers, and "1776 - 2026" inscribed. The overall length of the percussion rifle is 54 ¾ inches, with a 29-inch barrel, and it weighs just over 7 pounds. The elegant 250 th Commemorative Frontier Rifle is available in .45 or .50 caliber for an MSRP of $2,592.00. "The Overmountain Men and the Battle of King's Mountain were the crucial turning point in the Revolutionary War. These patriots were not soldiers, but a militia force comprised of frontiersmen from the Watauga and other areas that would become Tennessee, Virginia, and the Carolinas," Mike Harvey, founder and president of Cimarron Firearms, commented. "The Overmountain Men used guerrilla tactics to surround and overwhelm Major Patrick Ferguson's Loyalist force. It was the last time Cornwallis could count on Loyalists to fill his ranks. The Overmountain Men were not soldiers but fought purely for their independence and freedom from tyranny." For more information on Cimarron Firearms and accessories, visit www.cimarron-firearms.com. Keep up with the history and happenings at Cimarron on YouTube .
Pallet Trucks UK Launches New MID-EPT15-65LOW Triton Fully Electric Pallet Truck for Low-Entry Handling Applications
Mon, Jul 06, 2026 04:26 EDT
Pallet Trucks UK has expanded its electric handling range with the introduction of the MID-EPT15-65LOW Triton Fully Electric Pallet Truck , a 1500kg low profile model designed to meet growing demand for efficient handling of low-clearance pallets and specialist loads. The new unit, which is currently in stock, has been engineered for environments where standard pallet trucks and even conventional electric pallet truck models are unable to access low-entry pallets, stillages or export packaging. With a reduced fork height of just 65mm, the MID-EPT15-65LOW enables operators to engage loads that would typically require manual low-profile equipment, while offering the added efficiency of full electric operation. The model features a 550x1150mm fork configuration and a compact pedestrian design, making it suitable for warehouses, retail environments, delivery vehicles, tail lifts, supermarkets and confined workspaces. Its fully electric system provides powered travel, lifting and lowering, helping to reduce operator strain while supporting more consistent handling performance across repetitive tasks. Powered by a removable 48V lithium battery, the unit is designed for flexibility and reduced downtime, with rapid battery replacement capability enabling extended operational use where required. The brushless drive motor supports lower maintenance requirements, while features such as electromagnetic braking, an ergonomic multi-function handle, a battery indicator and error code display provide operators with improved control and visibility during use. Pallet Trucks UK says the introduction of low-profile electric solutions answers a true need in warehouse operations, where mixed pallet types and non-standard loads are becoming increasingly common. The ability to safely and efficiently handle low-clearance goods without relying on manual effort is becoming a key operational advantage. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said, "Low-entry pallets and non-standard loads have always presented challenges for warehouse teams, particularly where manual low-profile trucks were the only option. What we're seeing now is a move towards electric solutions that remove that physical strain while improving consistency in day-to-day handling. "The MID-EPT15-65LOW has been developed for exactly those environments where space is tight, loads are awkward, and efficiency matters. It gives operators the ability to handle low-clearance pallets safely and reliably without compromising on performance or control." For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
SGS Highlights UK Updates to SVHC Candidate List for Great Britain
Mon, Jul 06, 2026 03:35 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 087.26, summarizing the UK Health and Safety Executive's (HSE) addition of 15 entries to the Candidate List of substances of very high concern (SVHCs) for authorization on June 15, 2026. Suppliers of substances on the UK REACH Candidate List have legal obligations regarding the use of such chemicals, whether on their own, in mixtures or in articles. Suppliers of articles containing a Candidate List substance in a concentration exceeding 0.1% must provide recipients with sufficient information to ensure safe use of the article. The HSE must be notified by UK producers, importers and suppliers of any articles containing substances on the UK REACH Candidate List if the substance meets specific conditions. This notification must be submitted within six months of the date the substance is included on the list. An up-to-date safety data sheet (SDS) must also be provided to customers for Candidate List substances, either on their own or in mixtures. The additions will affect stakeholders across multiple industries and supply chains, including manufacturers, importers and suppliers of SVHCs operating in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales). Legal obligations will apply from June 15, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 087.26 includes a useful table listing the new additions to the REACH Candidate List for the UK. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 087.26 for more details. SGS chemical testing SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full UK Updates Candidate List 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
SGS Highlights Proposed Revision to Peru Toys and Office Supplies Legislation
Fri, Jul 03, 2026 10:02 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 086.26, highlighting Peru's World Trade Organization (WTO) notification of a draft regulation proposing amendments to the country's law governing toys and office supplies. The announcement came in May 2026, with details of amendments to Law No. 28376 covering toys and office supplies. Proposed key changes include: Redefining the term 'toys' Updating Articles 16, 17, 19, 22 and 36 on criteria, manufacture and importation authorization and labeling Expanding the list of toys to include dolls and action figures Clarifying the scope of office supplies Strengthening chemical safety requirements Permitting the use of nickel and cobalt in specified toy applications Manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers and other intermediaries may be affected by the proposed amendments. Comments will be accepted until July 25, 2026, and the proposed amendment is intended to enter into force six months after publication in the official journal, El Peruano. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 086.26 includes a helpful table of applicable chemical abbreviations. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 086.26 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 Peru Consults Over Revised Rules for Toys and Office Supplies 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
Midland Pallet Trucks Reveals How Battery Technology Improvements Are Extending Electric Stacker & Pallet Truck Use
Fri, Jul 03, 2026 03:56 EDT
Advances in battery technology are reshaping how warehouse equipment is used day to day, with electric stackers and pallet handling systems benefiting from improvements originally driven by energy and electric vehicle innovation. According to Midland Pallet Trucks, better battery performance, faster charging cycles and improved energy efficiency are now allowing warehouses to extend the operational use cases of electric stackers beyond traditional expectations. Where electric pallet trucks and stackers once reserved for specific shifts or limited applications, newer battery systems are enabling longer, more continuous periods of use. This is reducing downtime linked to charging and increasing the flexibility of how equipment is deployed across warehouse operations. A key change is the improvement in lithium-based battery performance. Modern systems can sustain higher energy output over longer periods while maintaining more consistent performance throughout the discharge cycle. This means equipment can operate at full capacity for longer, without the gradual decline in power that was more common in older systems. Charging efficiency has also improved significantly. Faster recharge times and more stable charging processes are allowing warehouses to integrate charging into normal workflows rather than treating it as a dedicated operational pause. In many environments, this is enabling equipment to rotate more fluidly between active use and charging periods. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at the West Midlands material handling specialists Midland Pallet Trucks, said these developments are changing how businesses think about electric equipment deployment. "Battery performance used to be one of the limiting factors in how widely electric stackers could be used," he said. "What we are seeing now is improved battery technology removing many of those constraints, allowing businesses to rely on electric equipment for longer and in more varied operating conditions." He added that the impact goes beyond simple runtime improvements. "When equipment can operate for longer without interruption, it changes how warehouses plan movement, staffing and task allocation," he said. "It also means electric stackers are now being used in areas of the operation where previously they might not have been considered practical." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com.
Achieva Credit Union Presents Historic $1 Million Gift to SPC
Thu, Jul 02, 2026 21:50 EDT
As St. Petersburg College prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2027 and Achieva Credit Union marks 90 years of service this year, the two institutions are reflecting on a partnership rooted in a shared commitment to education, opportunity and community impact. That partnership is being strengthened through Achieva's $1 million investment in SPC's Pathway to Better Centennial Campaign, the milestone gift that pushes the campaign beyond its historic $100 million fundraising goal. A Shared History of Service Their histories have been intertwined from the beginning. In 1937, seven Pinellas County teachers were denied loans by a local bank, so they came together to create a financial institution of their own. With just $99.25 and office space provided at St. Petersburg Junior College (SPJC), they established what would eventually become Achieva Credit Union. What started as a small credit union serving educators has grown into one of Florida's largest credit unions, serving more than 214,000 members with $3.1 billion in assets and 26 branches across the state. For nearly nine decades, Achieva and SPC have grown alongside one another, helping generations of residents build brighter futures through education, financial empowerment and workforce development. "Achieva Credit Union and St. Petersburg College have shared a remarkable partnership since Achieva was founded on our campus nearly 90 years ago. This extraordinary gift reflects our shared commitment to expanding opportunity and strengthening our community," said SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams The milestone reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to education and creating opportunities for future generations. "Surpassing our historic $100 million Centennial Campaign goal is an incredible milestone, but what matters most is the impact it will have on our students. This investment will open doors to education, strengthen our workforce and help transform lives for generations to come," said Dr. Williams. "We are deeply grateful to Achieva, our Foundation Board, our trustees and everyone who helped make this moment possible, and we hope it inspires others to join us in creating better opportunities, better lives and stronger communities." Creating Opportunities for Students The impact of the partnership is already changing lives for students like Eno Mucaj, who immigrated to the United States from Albania with his family at age 12 and chose SPC because it offered an affordable path to achieving his goals. After earning his Associate in Arts degree, Mucaj is now pursuing a bachelor's degree in paralegal studies while completing an internship with Achieva Credit Union. "When I came to the United States, I didn't know much English, but my family always believed education could change our lives. St. Petersburg College allowed me to earn my degree and pursue my career goals, and my internship at Achieva has allowed me to gain valuable professional experience while continuing my education," he said. "When I look at this partnership, I don't just see a donation; I see opportunities for students like me to build a better future. I'm grateful to both SPC and Achieva for believing in students and investing in our success." Investing in the Future Today, both institutions continue to play a vital role in the growth and success of Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay region. SPC prepares students for in-demand careers through academic programs, workforce training and industry partnerships, while Achieva helps individuals and families achieve financial stability and long-term success. Together, the organizations support initiatives that promote financial literacy, workforce readiness and community engagement, creating pathways that help students transition from education to meaningful careers. "Education has the power to change lives, and that's why our partnership with St. Petersburg College is so meaningful," said Eric Jenkins, President and CEO of Achieva Credit Union. "We share a belief that every student deserves the opportunity to build a better future, and this investment is about opening doors. As Achieva celebrates 90 years of serving our community, we're proud to help SPC prepare the next generation of leaders and create opportunities that will benefit our region for years to come." Looking Ahead The partnership serves as a reminder that lasting community impact is built through collaboration. While both organizations have evolved significantly since their founding, their missions remain closely aligned: expanding opportunity, supporting lifelong learning and helping individuals achieve their goals. "Reaching this historic milestone is a testament to the generosity of partners like Achieva Credit Union," said Jesse Turtle, Executive Director of the SPC Foundation. "Every gift expands opportunities for our students and strengthens our community. We hope this achievement inspires others to join us as we continue building the future of St. Petersburg College." As Achieva celebrates 90 years and SPC looks ahead to its centennial year, both institutions remain focused on preparing the next generation of leaders, supporting local employers and investing in the continued success of the communities they call home.
