토마스 김, 한국 최초 eXp Realty CAP 달성 에이전트 등극... eXp Korea의 새로운 이정표 세우다
Wed, Aug 12, 2026 05:47 EDT
eXp Realty Korea의 Country Leader인 토마스 김이 한국 최초로 eXp Realty의 CAP을 달성한 에이전트가 되며, eXp의 에이전트 중심 모델과 한국 부동산 시장에서의 성장 가능성을 입증하는 새로운 이정표를 세웠다. 는 오늘 토마스 김(Tomas Kim) Country Leader가 eXp Realty의 한국 최초 CAP 달성 에이전트가 되었다고 발표했다. 이번 성과는 토마스 김 개인에게는 중요한 커리어의 이정표인 동시에, 한국에서 빠르게 성장하고 있는 eXp Korea의 혁신적인 에이전트 중심 부동산 플랫폼이 새로운 단계에 들어섰음을 보여주는 의미 있는 성과다. 김 대표는 1년 전 eXp Realty Korea의 Country Leader로 합류하여 한국 시장 진출을 이끌었다. 회사 설립 초기에는 혼자서 직원이자 공인중개사로 시작했으며, 공식 오픈 이후 불과 10개월 만에 eXp Korea를 60명이 넘는 에이전트가 함께하는 조직으로 성장시키는 데 핵심적인 역할을 했다. 전통적인 부동산 중개법인을 설립하는 대신, 에이전트 중심 철학(Agent-First Philosophy), 협업 문화, 그리고 회사의 성장과 에이전트의 성공이 함께 이루어지는 독창적인 비즈니스 모델을 갖춘 eXp를 선택했다. "한국 최초의 capped agent가 되었다는 것은 개인적으로도 매우 의미 있는 성과이지만, eXp Korea 전체에도 중요한 이정표라고 생각합니다. 이는 eXp의 비즈니스 모델이 한국 시장에서도 실제로 작동한다는 것을 증명하기 때문입니다. eXp는 한국에서 캡 제도를 운영하는 유일한 중개회사입니다. 이번 성과를 통해 우리 에이전트들은 물론, 더 넓은 부동산 업계에도 eXp를 통해 어떤 가능성을 실현할 수 있는지 보여줄 수 있기를 바랍니다. "김 대표에게 이번 CAP 달성은 단순한 개인의 성과를 넘어, 그가 eXp Korea에서 만들어온 조직 문화의 결실이기도 하다. 회사 설립 이후 가장 큰 보람으로 신규 에이전트들이 첫 거래를 성사시키고, 자신감을 갖춘 전문가로 성장해 서로 협력하고 지식을 공유하는 모습을 지켜보는 것을 꼽았다. "많은 전통적인 중개회사들은 새로운 에이전트가 노하우를 배운 뒤 회사를 떠날 것을 우려해 자신들의 경험과 지식을 공유하는 데 소극적입니다. 하지만 제 철학은 정반대입니다. 에이전트들이 서로 지식을 나누고, 서로를 지원하며, 지속적으로 배우도록 장려함으로써 우리는 응원과 성장의 문화를 만들어왔습니다. 이는 제가 매우 자랑스럽게 생각하는 부분입니다. "eXp Korea가 지속적으로 성장해 나가는 가운데, 김 대표는 자신의 이번 성과가 더 많은 에이전트들이 eXp 플랫폼을 통해 성공을 추구하는 계기가 되기를 기대하고 있다. "저는 제가 오랫동안 유일한 capped agent로 남아 있지는 않을 것이라고 확신합니다. 앞으로 더 많은 한국 에이전트들이 캡을 달성하고, eXp를 통해 성공적인 부동산 커리어를 만들어가는 모습을 보는 것이 제 목표입니다. "또한 eXp Realty를 고려하고 있는 에이전트들에게 열린 마음과 변화에 대한 수용적인 자세로 새로운 기회에 접근할 것을 당부했다. "eXp는 단순한 중개회사가 아닙니다. 에이전트들이 서로의 성장을 돕고, 국경을 넘어 기회를 공유하는 글로벌 커뮤니티입니다. 협업할 준비가 되어 있고, 지속적으로 배우며, 혁신을 받아들일 의지가 있다면 eXp는 전통적인 중개회사에서는 실현하기 어려운 방식으로 여러분의 커리어를 확장할 수 있도록 도와줄 것입니다. "김 대표가 한국 최초의 CAP 달성 에이전트라는 이정표를 세우면서, eXp Realty Korea는 에이전트의 성공과 협업, 그리고 글로벌 기회를 중심으로 구축된 현대적인 부동산 중개 모델의 가능성을 지속적으로 보여주고 있다. eXp Realty 소개 eXp Realty는 글로벌 클라우드 기반 부동산 중개기업으로, 에이전트들에게 혁신적인 기술과 협업 중심의 커뮤니티, 그리고 부동산 전문가들이 자신의 비즈니스를 성장시킬 수 있도록 설계된 독창적인 비즈니스 모델을 제공한다. 전 세계 여러 시장에서 사업을 운영하고 있으며, 교육과 협업, 글로벌 규모의 성공적인 커리어 구축 기회를 통해 에이전트들의 성장을 지원하고 있다. ### 문의사항 문의사항은 eXp Realty Korea 김 대표님에게 문의하시기 바랍니다. 연락처: +82-10-3801-3309
Cape Town's Keegen Bain Named to eXp Realty's International Agent Advisory Council
Wed, Aug 12, 2026 05:35 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.
Dubai's Majida Housni Named to eXp Realty's International Agent Advisory Council
Wed, Aug 12, 2026 05:35 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.
Hospitality Sector Urged to Rethink Manual Handling as Heavy Lifting Remains Part of Everyday Operations
Wed, Aug 12, 2026 04:32 EDT
While warehouses and distribution centres are often at the centre of discussions around manual handling, Pallet Trucks UK believes another sector deserves greater attention: hospitality. From pubs receiving beer deliveries to restaurants unpacking bulk food orders and catering businesses transporting heavy equipment between venues, staff across the industry routinely move awkward and weighty loads with far less specialist handling equipment than many industrial workplaces. The hospitality sector employs more than 3.5 million people across the UK and remains one of the country's largest employers. Yet many businesses continue to rely on manual lifting for tasks that could be made safer and more efficient through relatively modest investment in purpose-built equipment. Kegs, crates of bottled drinks, catering appliances, sacks of ingredients and bulk deliveries all place considerable physical demands on staff, particularly in premises where storage areas are in basements, back-of-house corridors or compact service areas. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), manual handling remains one of the leading causes of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in Britain, accounting for a significant proportion of non-fatal workplace injuries each year. Repeated lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling can contribute to back injuries, strains and long-term health problems, particularly where tasks are carried out frequently throughout the working day. Pallet Trucks UK believes hospitality businesses have often been overlooked when it comes to manual handling improvements, despite facing many of the same challenges as warehouses on a smaller scale. Compact pallet trucks can simplify the movement of incoming deliveries, while stackers and lift tables can reduce repeated lifting when preparing stock or moving equipment around kitchens, cellars and storage rooms. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said the perception that manual handling equipment belongs only in warehouses no longer reflects the reality of modern workplaces. "When people think of pallet trucks, they tend to picture large distribution centres, but hospitality businesses move an enormous amount of stock every single day," he said. "Whether it's kegs, catering supplies or bulk food deliveries, those loads still need moving safely, and relying on physical strength alone simply isn't the best approach. "Good handling equipment isn't about replacing people; it's about making demanding jobs less physically taxing. Even relatively small investments can help reduce the risk of injury, make deliveries easier to manage and allow staff to spend more time serving customers rather than wrestling with heavy loads." For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
Quadrant Partners with PassEntry to Launch Digital Community Pass, Bringing Fans Closer to Motorsport Culture
Wed, Aug 12, 2026 04:08 EDT
Quadrant, the motorsport lifestyle brand founded by F1 driver Lando Norris, today announced a partnership with PassEntry, the leading platform for digital wallet passes, to launch the Quadrant Community Pass - a digital membership card delivered straight to fans' Apple Wallet and Google Wallet. The Quadrant Community Pass gives fans a single, always up-to-date home for their membership, replacing static loyalty cards and one-off email updates with a live digital pass that sits on the lock screen, ready whenever fans need it. Bringing Fans Closer to the Track Quadrant has built one of motorsport's fastest-growing communities, blending elite sport with creator culture, content and lifestyle for an audience that lives online and engages deeply with authentic, fast-paced storytelling. As Quadrant expands its physical footprint - from pop-ups to exclusive experiences at race weekends around the world - the brand needed a way to recognise and reward its community, without asking fans to download another app. Working with PassEntry, Quadrant can now issue every member a branded digital pass that: - Unlocks exclusive access to pop-ups, race-weekend experiences and community events, with entry verified instantly via QR code - no printed tickets, no app downloads. - Delivers timely alerts straight to the lock screen - from new product drops and event announcements to race-day reminders - via push notifications and location-triggered messages when fans are near a Quadrant activation. - Deepens the fan relationship, giving Quadrant a direct, permission-based channel to its community and the analytics to understand how members are engaging with the brand. - Feels effortlessly on-brand, with a fully customised pass design that reflects Quadrant's identity, distributed in minutes via SMS, email or QR code. Built for Speed, On and Off the Track For Quadrant, speed of delivery mattered as much as design. PassEntry's platform allowed the Quadrant Community Pass to go from concept to launch in a fraction of the time of a native app build, with no on-going development costs required to keep passes updated as the community and its perks evolve. "The default answer in this industry is to 'build an app' and it's almost always the wrong one," said Nico Cary, Co-Founder & CTO, PassEntry. "Nobody wants to download another app, create another account and remember another password just to prove they're a fan. The wallet is already there, on every phone, one tap away. Quadrant got it, ship the pass, skip the app and spend the engineering budget on literally anything else. We had them live in days. The app route would've taken months to ship." "Our community is at the heart of everything we do, and we wanted to give them something that matches the pace of what we're building," said Alex Chalder, Head of Brand Activations, Quadrant. "The Community Pass turns membership into something fans actually use - it's in their wallet, it updates instantly, and it gets them into the moments that matter." Availability The Quadrant Community Pass is available now to members via Quadrant.gg, with the pass adding directly to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet in a single tap. About Quadrant: Quadrant is the home of new-generation motorsport fandom. Founded by Lando Norris and brought to life by Veloce, Quadrant blends elite sport with creator culture, lifestyle and entertainment for an audience that lives online and engages deeply with authentic, culturally relevant content. Learn more at quadrant.gg About PassEntry: PassEntry is the leading platform for digital wallet passes, enabling businesses across ticketing, loyalty, membership, travel and retail to create, distribute and update secure Apple Wallet and Google Wallet passes. Trusted by over 170 companies worldwide, PassEntry helps brands cut friction, boost engagement and reach customers in real time - no app downloads required. Learn more at passentry.com Media Contact PassEntry charlie@passentry.com
Study Finds Child Pedestrian Collisions Increase Throughout the Fall School Semester
Tue, Aug 11, 2026 16:42 EDT
Analysis of UC Berkely TIMS data found child pedestrian crashes in Los Angeles County increased after summer & remained significantly higher after students returned to school.
Beken Bio awarded SBIR Phase II grant to advance ovarian cancer detection technology
Tue, Aug 11, 2026 15:22 EDT
Beken Bio , a biotechnology company focused on early cancer detection and located at the New Orleans BioInnovation Center (NOBIC), has been awarded a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF.) The highly competitive grant is one of roughly 80 Phase II awards NSF makes annually nationwide and accelerate development of Beken Bio's novel ovarian cancer liquid biopsy test. The $1.25 million grant builds on Beken Bio's successful SBIR Phase I award and represents an important next step in the development and validation of the company's diagnostic technology. The Phase II award will fund the clinical validation of Beken Bio's ovarian cancer blood test through a prospective multi-center study enrolling women undergoing evaluation for pelvic masses at hospitals across New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport. The project will also support health economics and reimbursement planning with healthcare providers and payers and will enable preliminary development of the company's second diagnostic program focused on early detection of lung cancer. Beken Bio is developing a liquid biopsy that uses a simple blood test to identify extracellular vesicles - tiny cancer-related particles that can appear in the bloodstream. The technology is designed to detect ovarian cancer earlier and in a less invasive way than current diagnostic approaches. "This award represents an inflection point for Beken Bio," said Christopher Millan, Ph.D., co-founder and CEO. "Over the past several years we've built the scientific foundation for our ovarian cancer detection platform. Phase II funding allows us to put that technology to the test in real patients across Louisiana, work toward reimbursement and commercialization, and begin expanding our platform to a second indication in lung cancer. It's an exciting step toward building a company that can fundamentally change how cancers are detected." Beken Bio's work addresses a major unmet need in gynecologic oncology: accurately distinguishing malignant from benign ovarian masses before surgery. The company's technology seeks to provide objective molecular information about the signs of cancer ensuring patients at highest risk for ovarian cancer reach specialist care promptly. The Phase II award also marks continued growth for Beken Bio in New Orleans. The company recently expanded its NOBIC laboratory operations to support its clinical and commercial development. The lab is designed to support regulatory and operational milestones as Beken Bio works toward commercialization of its first diagnostic product. "Going from an SBIR Phase I to a Phase II award is one of the strongest validations an early-stage biotech can earn," said Kris Khalil, executive director of NOBIC. "Beken Bio is an example of rigorous science advancing toward patients who need it. We're proud that the clinical validation across Louisiana will be anchored in the company's lab at the New Orleans BioInnovation Center. With support from BioDistrict New Orleans, we're expanding NOBIC's SBIR and STTR assistance so more Louisiana companies can strategically compete for and win this kind of critical federal support." Beken Bio combines nanobiology with machine learning and artificial intelligence to develop new approaches to early cancer detection. By targeting abundant biomarkers in the body, the company aims to identify cancer earlier and ultimately improve outcomes for patients. For more information on Beken Bio and their work click here. For more information on NOBIC visit here .
DropWorks and THE PIG Solidify 'Best of British' Partnership
Tue, Aug 11, 2026 12:39 EDT
Luxury hotel group THE PIG has extended its partnership with award-winning DropWorks Rum , as it celebrates its 15 th anniversary and is set to open the doors to its largest site next Summer. Renowned for its rustic luxury styling, strong sustainable ethos and exceptional food-led hospitality, THE PIG has DropWorks Rum's Barrel Drop , Clear Drop and Funk Drop rums, as well as Distiller's Drop #001 and Distiller's Drop #002 listed on its menu across its nine venues. The long-standing partnership is built around both THE PIG and DropWorks Rum's commitment to British production and locally sourced ingredients. Alongside its listing as the house pour, Founder and Master Distiller Lewis Hayes has completed a nationwide education programme for more than 50 of THE PIG's bartenders, delivering hands-on rum training and category education. Lewis said: "We are delighted to strengthen our ties with THE PIG, having been the house pour rum for the last two years. The boutique hotel chain champions sustainability, British suppliers and locally sourced produce, and we are very proud to be associated with them. We share THE PIG's philosophy of proudly supporting the local landscape and suppliers. "This partnership shares lots of similarities with our recent listing in Fortnum & Mason, which has been a high point of 2026 for the team. We're building strong foundations with brands that share our commitment to and passion for simply being the best at serving up exceptional hospitality and food and drink products. Whether that be in the considered choice of locally sourced ingredients that go into every glass or plate of food, to the care and attention the venue or shop's staff pay to the customer's tastes and preferences." THE PIG Hotels opened its first location in Brockhurst in 2011 and has since grown across the South of England and the Midlands to celebrate the best of home-grown and locally sourced produce. THE PIG is set to open its 10th, and largest, site in Warwickshire in late summer 2027. Sam Vesey, Group Bar Manager at THE PIG said: "We wanted our guests to enjoy high-quality, premium rum that is not packed full of sugar or artificial flavourings and wasn't made by a distillery as an afterthought. It has been great to showcase how British-made rum can more than hold its own against the Caribbean style rums used in cocktails. "We knew from our first meeting with Lewis that DropWorks and THE PIG were well matched and have seen our staff serve up a selection of delectable rum cocktails this summer at our Garden Parties following the bespoke training sessions with Lewis which they have loved." DropWorks is already served in a number of high-end hospitality venues including The Ivy Brasserie, The Clove Club and Moor Hall, as well as more than a third of the UK's top 50 cocktail bars, such as Soma, Disrepute, Slowpour and Blinker. The award-winning rums from DropWorks are 100% British-made and all fermented, distilled and blended at the DropWorks Distillery located in the heart of Nottinghamshire's Sherwood Forest. The DropWorks Distillery is the largest of its kind in Europe, spanning 17,000 sq ft. The facility can produce up to one and a half million bottles of rum a year and up to 10 barrels of rum a day. The distillery houses copper stills which have been made bespoke for DropWorks production. The team ferments, distils, ages and bottles every Drop of rum on site and has oversight of every single step of the production process. This Summer, THE PIG has delivered a series of Smoked & Uncut Garden Parties bringing together great food, drink and local music and entertainment. DropWorks Rum is part of the drinks on offer during the Garden Parties.
Accuracy X, Inc. Selects Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM) as Agency of Record
Tue, Aug 11, 2026 11:10 EDT
Laura Burgess Marketing to lead media relations, direct-to-consumer growth, and OEM expansion of the patented Multi-Sight™ System. Accuracy X, Inc (AXI) , the makers of the world's proven most accurate pistols, has named Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM) , public relations and marketing communications for the law enforcement, public safety, military, outdoor, shooting sports, hunting, and forensic communities, as its agency of record. The partnership tasks LBM with expanding AXI's direct-to-consumer sales, building a durable owned audience, and broadening the reach of the company's patented Multi-Sight™ sighting system across the industry and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) channels. Under the engagement, LBM will direct a multi-channel program spanning strategic public relations and press release development and distribution, media and writer relations, email marketing and customer newsletter creation, social media strategy, and targeted business-to-business outreach to OEMs. A central focus will be establishing durable, owned marketing channels, an email list and newsletter AXI controls, to complement the company's social media presence and reduce its reliance on third-party platforms. Founded on the principle that "excellent isn't good enough," AXI hand-builds custom 1911 and 1911 HiCAP pistols , Accuracy X-Enhanced GLOCK pistols , and precision bolt rifles from American-made components. Its patented Multi-Sight™ and SLOT Sight™ Systems allow a single pistol to be reconfigured across multiple sighting setups while holding one zero; a capability already adopted by other respected builders in the industry and central to AXI's expanding OEM strategy. "At Accuracy X, we've spent years proving that we build the world's most accurate, versatile, and high-performance custom firearms. But building world-class engineering is only half the battle - ensuring the right shooters, manufacturers, and industry partners hear that message is where Laura Burgess Marketing comes in," said Steve Huff, president of Accuracy X. "Partnering with LBM gives us the strategic focus, media expertise, and multi-channel discipline we need to scale our direct sales, expand our OEM sight system footprint, and cut through the noise. We aren't just looking to grow; we're looking to build an enduring, owned audience and cement our industry leadership - and there is no one better than Ashley and LBM to help us execute that vision." "Accuracy X has already done the hard part, building firearms that win at the highest levels of competition. Our job is to make sure the right people know it," said Ashley Burgess Gall, president of Laura Burgess Marketing. "We're going to sharpen their message, build direct relationships with their customers that no algorithm can interrupt, and open doors on the OEM side for the Multi-Sight System. This is exactly the kind of American craftsmanship and precision LBM loves to represent." For more information on Accuracy X, visit its website or follow along on Instagram , Facebook , X , or YouTube .
ScribeEMR Features Chart-to-Claim Workflow at NACHC CHI in Las Vegas
Tue, Aug 11, 2026 10:59 EDT
ScribeEMR , the company that connects clinical documentation, coding, revenue cycle management (RCM), and virtual operations under one accountable partner, will exhibit at The CHI - Community Health Conference will take place from August 16-18, at the Aria Resort in Las Vegas (Booth #928). CHI is the premiere gathering of the nation's Community Health Centers, the largest network of primary care providers in the U.S. Currently serving, one in seven Americans, NACHC's goal is for health centers to serve one in three Americans as the nation's healthcare Employer, Provider, and Partner of Choice. The conference will provide attendees with the latest in science, education, practice, and policy that health centers need to stay competitive and financially stable. "FQHCs and community health centers need a partner that can support their entire workflow to help teams meet quality-measure and compliance requirements, save time, reduce administrative burden, protect revenue, and give providers more capacity to care for patients," says Terry Ciesla, Senior Vice President of ScribeEMR. "We gives health centers flexible documentation options, including dedicated remote scribes and ScribeRyte AI, specialized FQHC coding, RCM and virtual front- and back-office services that integrate seamlessly with major EHR platforms." CodeEMR, ScribeEMR's subsidiary, has more than 50 community health center clients that leverage the specialized expertise of FQHC audit and coding. CodeEMR provides CHC & FQHC Coding Services including Medical and Behavioral Health Coding, Encounter-Based & Prospective Payment System (PPS) Coding to ensure compliance with Medicare PPS and Medicaid reimbursement models as well as Telehealth & Preventive Service Coding. "CodeEMR is providing significant value and experience to our CHC and FQHC medical coding clients," says Vice President of Coding Business Development Paul Ferrazza. "We're helping them address their complex challenges while helping to optimize reimbursements, increase profits, and foster growth for healthcare centers providing care to underserved areas." ScribeRyte AI delivers close to 100% accurate clinical notes generated instantly during a patient visit, with options for additional scribe support customized to the needs of each practice and specialty. The platform includes a human-in-the-loop option which will work with an existing AI documentation tool in the practice.
Nicor Gas highlights safe digging on National 811 Day
Tue, Aug 11, 2026 09:54 EDT
Nicor Gas is reminding homeowners, contractors and communities across Northern Illinois to prioritize safety by contacting 811 before beginning any digging project. National 811 Day, observed each year on Aug. 11, highlights the importance of knowing what's below before breaking ground. Whether planting trees, installing a fence, building a deck or completing larger excavation work, even small digging projects can result in damage to underground utility lines if proper precautions are not taken. "At Nicor Gas, safety is at the center of everything we do," said Pat Whiteside, senior vice president of operations at Nicor Gas. "National 811 Day serves as an important reminder that every digging project - no matter the size - begins with contacting 811. Taking this simple, free step helps protect people, property and the critical underground infrastructure our communities rely on every day." Despite ongoing awareness efforts, millions of Americans still plan digging projects each year without contacting 811 first, increasing the risk of utility damage, service interruptions, personal injury and costly repairs. To help promote safe digging, Nicor Gas encourages everyone to dig with CARE: - C all or click before you dig - Always contact JULIE , Illinois' one call center, by dialing 811 or visiting illinois1call.com at least three business days before starting any digging project. This free service ensures underground utility lines, including natural gas, electric, water, sewer and telecommunications lines, are properly marked. - A llow time for marking - After submitting a request, wait for professional locators to mark the approximate location of underground utility lines using color-coded paint or flags. Yellow indicates natural gas facilities. - R espect the marks - Use only hand tools when digging near marked utility lines to help prevent accidental damage. - E xcavate carefully - Keep utility markings visible throughout your project. If markings become faded or are disturbed, contact 811 to have them refreshed. If a natural gas line is damaged, or if you smell natural gas, which is often described as a rotten-egg odor, leave the area immediately. Then call 911 and the Nicor Gas emergency line at 1-888-642-6748. For more information about safe digging and natural gas safety, visit nicorgas.com/811 . ### About Nicor Gas Nicor Gas is one of four natural gas distribution companies of Southern Company Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), and serves 2.3 million customers in more than 650 communities across Northern Illinois. Nicor Gas is fueling customer choice, innovation, economic growth and a sustainable energy future. Nicor Gas is working to keep bills as low as possible as we continue providing access to clean, safe and reliable natural gas. For more information, visit NicorGas.com.
Midland Pallet Trucks Launches Fully Electric Pallet Truck with Load Backrest for Better Load Security Preview Text
Tue, Aug 11, 2026 05:18 EDT
A simple addition to a pallet truck could help prevent one of the most common - and costly - problems in busy warehouses. Midland Pallet Trucks has launched a new version of its Triton MID-EPT20A-BR fully electric pallet truck - fitted with an integrated load backrest, designed to provide extra support for taller and less stable pallet loads. While load backrests are commonplace on forklifts, they are far less common on pedestrian-operated pallet trucks, despite many businesses routinely transporting high or awkward loads. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said many operators simply accept unstable loads as part of warehouse life until something goes wrong. "People have all seen videos of pallets collapsing or products spilling across a warehouse floor, but the reality is that these incidents happen far more often than most businesses realise," he said. "It doesn't always end with thousands of pounds' worth of damaged stock, but even one pallet shifting can stop work, create a clean-up job and introduce unnecessary risk for everyone nearby." Rather than relying solely on careful stacking or stretch wrap, the load backrest provides an additional point of support behind the pallet, helping prevent taller loads from shifting backwards during transport. The feature becomes particularly valuable in operations where goods are moved repeatedly throughout the day. "In sectors such as wholesale and cash and carry, pallets are rarely moved just once," he said. "They might be unloaded, transferred into storage, replenished onto the shop floor and moved back again. Every journey creates another opportunity for an unstable load to move. Adding a backrest is a relatively straightforward change, but it can make operators feel much more confident when handling taller pallets." The new model retains the specification of Midland Pallet Trucks' existing fully electric pallet truck, including a 2,000kg lifting capacity, brushless DC drive motor, lithium battery, regenerative braking and compact pedestrian design. As warehouse operators continue looking for practical ways to reduce product damage and improve day-to-day handling, Midland Pallet Trucks believes simple engineering improvements often deliver the greatest value. For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .#
War Zone to Wild
Tue, Aug 11, 2026 05:00 EDT
Adolescent lions BenTzur and Ori, rescued from the illegal wildlife trade in Israel, have stepped out onto the land of their ancestors at the Animal Defenders International (ADI) Wildlife Sanctuary in Free State, South Africa. The lions had been stranded for months due to the conflict in the middle east, with most flights grounded. Finally, they hitched a ride with the ADI team on a cargo flight from Tel Aviv which took them on a 50-hour journey via Cairo and Frankfurt before landing in Johannesburg. Over a year ago, the 16-month-old lions were seized as tiny cubs by Israel's Nature & Parks Authority (NPA) during a crackdown on illegally trafficked animals. The youngsters had been torn from their mothers, when they should have been suckling, in order to be passed around as 'trophy pets' for photos, likes, and shares - the craze being fuelled by social media. The happy journey's end, which saw the young lions striding through African grass, exploring and playing, highlights a problem which is reaching epidemic proportions. Jan Creamer, ADI President: "These 'trophy pets' are animals like lions and tigers, taken from their mothers and kept in cruel, unnatural conditions as status symbols. They are treated as fashion accessories for social media likes and then get dumped when the owners get bored, or the animals grow too big, dangerous and expensive to feed. These young animals suffer miserable lives, caged and in tiny spaces, deprived of their mother's love, social contact with their own kind, living in basements and on chains when they should be running free." Ori was found in the basement of a house and BenTzur was tied to a tree in a backyard, on a short rope. ADI previously rescued six young lions in Kuwait, also trophy pets which had been dumped in the desert to die, or abandoned in the city, tied to lamp posts. Social media is providing free advertising for a cruel and abusive trade, with accounts identified by ADI of 'influencers' with over 6 million followers, handling exotic animals, normalising and monetising animal abuse. BenTzur and Ori had a lucky escape, and this week made the journey of a lifetime. With very few flights available due to the conflict, they flew from Tel Aviv to Cairo for a 2.5-hour stop over, and then on to Frankfurt, Germany for a 12-hour wait before leaving on their flight to Johannesburg. ADI founders Jan Creamer and Tim Phillips flew with the lions to monitor them, topping up their water and using tongs to give them small pieces of meat prepared in advance, through a small hole in the crate. Jan Creamer: "The lions travelled well, but it was a long journey, and they were very happy when we finally released them into their house at the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary. They rubbed heads, vocalised, and then curled up together on a nice hay bed to sleep. The other lions at the Sanctuary immediately knew there were new arrivals and announced their presence with roars, which made BenTzur and Ori sit up and listen. They were so young when they were taken, they will not have heard the communications of a lion pride." Preparations had been made to account for the young lions arriving from the sweltering heat in Israel to mid-winter in South Africa. They were kept overnight in their heated house and given a light meal. On Wednesday morning came the moment we had all been waiting for, the doors were opened, and BenTzur and Ori stepped out onto the land nature intended, on grass, under the African sky, with sights and sounds of the wild all around them. The lions have adapted very quickly to their new routine, responding to the voices of their carers, coming into their house to be fed. They have been enjoying toys like giant robust-a-balls and catnip sacks. Jan Creamer: "All the stress of trying to get them here and the exhaustion of the journey were forgotten as they stepped out onto African soil. They had never walked on grass before and were cautious, then started to stride together through our dry, golden, winter grass, growing in confidence and looking around, hearing the voices of other lions, you could see they were where they were meant to be. Their instincts took over, and they methodically walked the whole 2.5-acre habitat, mapping it out, noting where everything was, sitting on top of the platforms, investigating the dens underneath and playing with the toys. "By the end of their third circuit, they knew where everything was in their territory, and laid on top of the platforms, looking and listening to the roars of their neighbours". The rescue proved to be very expensive, due to months of waiting, the scarcity of flights and escalating costs of aviation fuel, in addition to building a large secure habitat and a brick heated house. The charity is now looking to cover the cost of BenTzur and Ori's food, veterinary care, and care team for hopefully the next 20 years, and is appealing for support for these young lions who, despite all odds, have come home to Africa. Due to in-breeding, early-age malnutrition, and associated genetic problems, as well as their close contact with humans, BenTzur and Ori can never return to the wild. Donations can be made at https://act.ad-international.org/page/185792/donate/1
Wells Fargo Awards $1.3 Million Grant to Ascendus to Grow Small Businesses Across Four States
Mon, Aug 10, 2026 18:46 EDT
Announced on stage at the iHeartRadio New York's Z100 Summer Bash presented by Wells Fargo, the grant pairs $900,000 in capital with more than 200 hours of coaching for entrepreneurs, supporting 170+ jobs NEW YORK, NY, August 7, 2026. At the iHeartRadio New York's Z100 Summer Bash presented by Wells Fargo, Wells Fargo announced a $1.3 million grant to Ascendus through its Open for Business Growth initiative, a nationwide program to scale growth-ready businesses. Wells Fargo Chief Financial Officer Mike Santomassimo shared the news on stage alongside Ascendus Chief Executive Officer Paul Quintero. The philanthropic investment funds the Ascendus Path to Growth Program, which works with small business owners in New York, Florida, Georgia and North Carolina over two years. Ascendus will deploy $900,000 in loans and lines of credit to an estimated 45 entrepreneurs, deliver more than 200 hours of one-on-one coaching, and support business owners seeking to create or retain 170+ jobs. What sets this program apart is what happens after the loan. Capital opens the door. Coaching is what turns it into growth. Each borrower works through a roadmap built on the Ascendus FinHealth Score® and the Ascendus Borrower Index, with quarterly sessions aimed at three kinds of growth: growing revenue, growing from a first line of credit to a larger one, and in time growing from a nonprofit lender to a traditional bank. Small business owners across these markets are building companies that need capital sized to their stage. Ascendus works with them through loans up to $100,000, lines of credit, and coaching focused on credit health and long termlong-term financial confidence. "When capital is paired with one-on-one coaching, our initial loan becomes the first step in a client's financial journey, building momentum through a larger second loan and ultimately direct bank financing. That final step unlocks new capital for our clients while refinancing Ascendus' loans, allowing us to reinvest in the next generation of entrepreneurs and drive sustained small business growth. This $1.3 million grant from Wells Fargo will support 45 entrepreneurs across four states, helping them move from bank-ineligible to bank-ready, and from surviving to scaling. For Ascendus, this is financial ascension in action, and we are grateful to Wells Fargo for investing in the long-term growth and potential of small business owners." P aul Quintero , Chief Executive Officer, Ascendus "Wells Fargo's Open for Business Growth initiative is designed to accelerate the growth of businesses that line economic corridors and provide vital jobs in local communities. Ascendus is a leader in guiding entrepreneurs down the capital pathway with coaching matched to their needs. It's this blending of capital and coaching that is transformative for business owners seeking to reach the next level of growth." Kimelyn Harris , Head of Business Growth Philanthropy, Wells Fargo
War Zone to Wild
Mon, Aug 10, 2026 17:22 EDT
Adolescent lions BenTzur and Ori, rescued from the illegal wildlife trade in Israel, have stepped out onto the land of their ancestors at the Animal Defenders International (ADI) Wildlife Sanctuary in Free State, South Africa. The lions had been stranded for months due to the conflict in the middle east, with most flights grounded. Finally, they hitched a ride with the ADI team on a cargo flight from Tel Aviv which took them on a 50-hour journey via Cairo and Frankfurt before landing in Johannesburg. Over a year ago, the 16-month-old lions were seized as tiny cubs by Israel's Nature & Parks Authority (NPA) during a crackdown on illegally trafficked animals. The youngsters had been torn from their mothers, when they should have been suckling, in order to be passed around as 'trophy pets' for photos, likes, and shares - the craze being fueled by social media. The happy journey's end, which saw the young lions striding through African grass, exploring and playing, highlights a problem which is reaching epidemic proportions. Jan Creamer, ADI President: "These 'trophy pets' are animals like lions and tigers, taken from their mothers and kept in cruel, unnatural conditions as status symbols. They are treated as fashion accessories for social media likes and then get dumped when the owners get bored, or the animals grow too big, dangerous and expensive to feed. These young animals suffer miserable lives, caged and in tiny spaces, deprived of their mother's love, social contact with their own kind, living in basements and on chains when they should be running free." Ori was found in the basement of a house and BenTzur was tied to a tree in a backyard, on a short rope. ADI previously rescued six young lions in Kuwait, also trophy pets which had been dumped in the desert to die, or abandoned in the city, tied to lamp posts. Social media is providing free advertising for a cruel and abusive trade, with accounts identified by ADI of 'influencers' with over 6 million followers, handling exotic animals, normalizing and monetizing animal abuse. BenTzur and Ori had a lucky escape, and this week made the journey of a lifetime. With very few flights available due to the conflict, they flew from Tel Aviv to Cairo for a 2.5-hour stop over, and then on to Frankfurt, Germany for a 12-hour wait before leaving on their flight to Johannesburg. ADI founders Jan Creamer and Tim Phillips flew with the lions to monitor them, topping up their water and using tongs to give them small pieces of meat prepared in advance, through a small hole in the crate. Jan Creamer: "The lions traveled well, but it was a long journey, and they were very happy when we finally released them into their house at the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary. They rubbed heads, vocalized, and then curled up together on a nice hay bed to sleep. The other lions at the Sanctuary immediately knew there were new arrivals and announced their presence with roars, which made BenTzur and Ori sit up and listen. They were so young when they were taken, they will not have heard the communications of a lion pride." Preparations had been made to account for the young lions arriving from the sweltering heat in Israel to mid-winter in South Africa. They were kept overnight in their heated house and given a light meal. On Wednesday morning came the moment we had all been waiting for, the doors were opened, and BenTzur and Ori stepped out onto the land nature intended, on grass, under the African sky, with sights and sounds of the wild all around them. The lions have adapted very quickly to their new routine, responding to the voices of their carers, coming into their house to be fed. They have been enjoying toys like giant robust-a-balls and catnip sacks. Jan Creamer: "All the stress of trying to get them here and the exhaustion of the journey were forgotten as they stepped out onto African soil. They had never walked on grass before and were cautious, then started to stride together through our dry, golden, winter grass, growing in confidence and looking around, hearing the voices of other lions, you could see they were where they were meant to be. Their instincts took over, and they methodically walked the whole 2.5-acre habitat, mapping it out, noting where everything was, sitting on top of the platforms, investigating the dens underneath and playing with the toys. "By the end of their third circuit, they knew where everything was in their territory, and laid on top of the platforms, looking and listening to the roars of their neighbors". The rescue proved to be very expensive, due to months of waiting, the scarcity of flights and escalating costs of aviation fuel, in addition to building a large secure habitat and a brick heated house. The charity is now looking to cover the cost of BenTzur and Ori's food, veterinary care, and care team for hopefully the next 20 years, and is appealing for support for these young lions who, despite all odds, have come home to Africa. Due to in-breeding, early-age malnutrition, and associated genetic problems, as well as their close contact with humans, BenTzur and Ori can never return to the wild. Donations can be made at https://act.ad-international.org/page/185796/donate/1
From Colonial Virginia to Washington, DC: André Kearns Recovers the Ancestors History Tried to Erase
Mon, Aug 10, 2026 13:14 EDT
In 'Finding Cornerstone Stories,' author/genealogist traces his family's 250-year American story - and leads readers through the path to finding their own As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, genealogist, entrepreneur, and speaker André Kearns is publishing "Finding Cornerstone Stories: Uncovering Inspiration in Your Family's History," a new book that traces his ancestry from present-day Washington, D.C. through the American South and back to some of the earliest Africans in colonial Virginia. Written and published by Kearns in conjunction with American Ancestors®, the book distills more than two decades of research into a collection of richly illustrated essays - and a practical guide readers can implement while uncovering their own family histories. For more than twenty years Kearns has walked the plantations and stood at the gravesites where his enslaved ancestors lived and are buried, at times delivering public talks on these exact sites. The book's timing is deliberate. In a year when the country is revisiting its founding, through "Finding Cornerstone Stories", Kearns brings a rare personal authority to widening the lens to include the Americans too often left out of traditional narratives.
FOOD, FUN AND FURRY FRIENDS: PAWS IN THE PARK PRESENTED BY AMAZON RETURNS AUGUST 15
Mon, Aug 10, 2026 09:30 EDT
Toronto Humane Society is inviting the community to celebrate the human-animal bond at Paws in the Park Presented by Amazon , its largest event of the year, taking place on Saturday, August 15, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 11 River Street . The free to attend, family-friendly and pet-friendly event will feature adoptable animals, shopping, activities, local food and drink vendors, and interactive experiences designed to bring people and pets together. Visitors can meet adoptable pets at the Adoption Fair, watch or participate in the Canine Agility Park, and connect with Toronto Humane Society veterinarians, trainers and behaviour specialists during Ask-an-Expert sessions. The event also features a DJ, Vendor Village, a Kids Zone with games, story time and arts and crafts, plus food and beverages available through Event Experience Bundles. A misting station will also help keep people and pets cool throughout the day.
World Off-Track on Nearly Every Food System Goal - Latest Assessment Reveals
Mon, Aug 10, 2026 08:52 EDT
The 2026 Food Systems Countdown analysis reveals that progress is too slow and insufficient to meet 2030 goals, but 2050 could still be achievable, provided actions are consistent and accelerated. Geneva/Washington DC, August 10, 2026 : The latest study from the Food Systems Countdown Initiative (FSCI) reveals the stark reality of where global food systems transformation stands - for most indicators on health, environment, livelihoods, governance and resilience, a vast majority of countries will not meet the internationally agreed 2030 goals. And for some indicators such as greenhouse gas emissions from food systems, no country in the world is projected to meet the target. The study, published in Nature Food , represents the most comprehensive performance assessment of food systems to date, covering 197 countries and 44 indicators across five themes: diets, nutrition and health; environment, natural resources and production; livelihoods, poverty and equity; governance; and resilience. And for the first time, the study goes beyond tracking trends to assess progress and measure how food systems are actually performing, and how much more needs to improve to meet globally set targets. "What makes this Countdown paper different is that it doesn't just tell countries whether they're moving in the right direction - it tells them how far they still have to go, and against a benchmark that's actually within reach. That distinction between tracking trends and measuring performance is what turns a monitoring exercise into a tool for accountability," said Dr. Bianca Carducci, lead author. Key Findings: The study finds that, of 30 indicators, only one - mobile phone subscriptions, a proxy for connectedness and resilience - has been met by most countries. For 22 indicators, fewer than one third of countries will meet their global target or benchmark by 2030. The indicator 'greenhouse gas emissions from food systems' has one of the largest gaps, with the global average 75% away from the target. No country in the world will meet the target at its current pace. Most regions of the world would need dramatic annual changes to achieve 2030 targets. For example, Africa will require at least a 15-20% improvement across 23 indicators every single year, and Asia will have to cut food insecurity by over 63% every year. High-income regions are not exempt. In Europe, 19 indicators remain unattainable by 2030. The analysis also shows that some indicators are moving in the wrong direction, notably civil society participation, governmental accountability, ultra-processed food sales, agricultural water withdrawal, pesticide use and changes in emissions from food systems. "Accountability for food systems transformation requires accelerated progress - without it, efforts risk becoming performative rather than transformative. We can no longer afford to continue at the present pace," said Dr. Mario Herrero, Professor, Ashley School of Global Development and the Environment, Cornell University. Bright Spots Offer Hope Despite the sobering picture for 2030, the study is not entirely bleak. For 7 of 33 indicators, at least a third of countries are already on track to meet the 2030 target. And half the indicators have been moving in a desirable direction at the global level. The study also offers the pace at which changes are required to achieve the targets by 2050, making progress feel achievable rather than impossible. In some cases, regional and income benchmarks provide more realistic milestones that can motivate countries. For example, on average African countries are 58.7% away from the global benchmark for affordability of a healthy diet, but that gap narrows to 32.2% when measured against a regional benchmark set by the average of the top fifth of African countries. "Bold global targets are vital for inspiring ambition. But they can become a source of inertia if they seem permanently out of reach. Therefore, regional and income-group benchmarks keep progress within sight and help identify the exemplar countries that can show others how it is achievable," said Dr. Jessica Fanzo, James Anderson Professor of Food Policy and Climate at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies Europe. Urgent Call to Accelerate Action The study highlights the urgent need for accelerated action across all indicators. Priority actions should focus on indicators where progress is most off track, like food affordability, food insecurity, government effectiveness and food systems emissions. Food systems emissions change will require annual reductions exceeding 60%, which is challenging even for 2050. "Food systems transformation is a shared responsibility. The governance indicators including government effectiveness, accountability and civil society participation are not just one category among five. They are the enablers. Improving them unlocks progress across the entire system," said Dr. Lawrence Haddad, Executive Director, Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition. Improving government effectiveness and accountability are the critical leverage points that interact with the largest number of indicators. However, the urgent need for transformation involves more concerted, creative and accelerated action from the global community that must recommit to achieving these targets by 2050, especially for those most vulnerable. "The kind of comprehensive assessment that this Countdown study provides is critical for governments and all other partners to set priorities, direct investments and resources, and draft and redraft policies. Our global food systems demand urgent, decisive action - starting now," said Dr. José Rosero Moncayo, Chief Statistician and Director of the Statistics Division, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The 2026 Food Systems Countdown analysis gives every country a mirror, as well as a signpost for what needs to be done, in which direction and at what pace. We owe it to the billions whose livelihoods depend on food systems, and the billions more who cannot afford a healthy diet, to act now, and to act fast. About the study: The study, "Food Systems Performance Evaluated Against Targets and Benchmarks Reveals Urgent Gaps and a Path to 2050," and accompanying report, "The Food Systems Countdown Report 2026: Assessing Performance, Driving Change," is available at www.foodcountdown.org. Country-level data and profiles are accessible through the Food Systems Dashboard. Code is available on GitHub (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0). MEDIA CONTACTS: For interview requests and/or enquiries regarding the 2026 Countdown study and report, please contact: T Sam Kaiser, Media & Communications Manager Email: tkaiser@gainhealth.org Phone: +91 96771 33877 Christopher Emsden, FAO News and Media (Rome) Email: christopher.emsden@fao.org Phone: (+39) 06 570 53291 More on this topic Full report: https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/ce0778en Summary: https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/ce0482en Nature Food article: https://www.nature.com/articles/s43016-026-01379-0 About the Countdown: The Food Systems Countdown Initiative (FSCI) is a global interdisciplinary research collaboration co-led by Johns Hopkins University, Cornell University, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition. It produces annual monitoring reports and a country-level data platform to support evidence-based policymaking and accountability for food systems transformation.
The Occupational Therapy Service Launches Moving and Handling Training Led by Eminent Deborah Harrison
Mon, Aug 10, 2026 07:28 EDT
The Occupational Therapy Service (TOTS) is proud to announce the launch of its dedicated Moving and Handling Training Service under the leadership of Deborah Harrison - widely recognised as the UK's foremost expert in moving and handling and optimal handed care. This new service represents a 'game changing' training proposition for all healthcare professionals involved in moving and handling within health, care, education and the workplace. Combining the respected reputation of TOTS with Deborah's unsurpassed knowledge, the benchmark for moving and handing training has now been raised through world-class expertise, evidence-based education and practical prowess. For more than 25 years, Deborah has been shaping the future of moving and handling across health and social care. A registered nurse by background, she has worked across acute hospitals, community services, local authorities and the independent care sector before becoming one of the country's most influential educators, researchers and innovators in the field. Her work has helped transform the way organisations assess, plan and deliver moving and handling, influencing practice at both local and national level. Now, Deborah is bringing that expertise to TOTS. Deborah comments: "I am thrilled to have joined TOTS as I have admired their work for many years. We have now joined forces to pioneer in moving and handling training; building on my established educational model whilst blending the discipline of occupational therapy into a more holistic approach. New course content will be varied and flexible to need however a major focus will be training professionals responsible for implementing the High Impact Change Model for Optimal Handed Care. On a personal note, I can't wait to take knowledge sharing to the next level, ultimately ensuring a more positive experience for those who need to be transferred manually." TOTS is one of the UK's leading independent occupational therapy services offering a wide range of clinical and commercial services. The provision of Moving and Handling training is a new competency which will be delivered with the same respected values. It has been created to equip professionals with the confidence, competence and clinical reasoning to deliver person-centred moving and handling between equipment such as beds, baths, toilets and chairs, now located in ever increasingly complex environments. Every course is built on robust research and evidence, including research that Deborah has herself been engaged in, and delivered by experienced clinicians who have successfully implemented these principles within real organisations. All delegates will be challenged to solve complex clinical scenarios, ensuring they leave with practical skills that can immediately improve care for the people they support. As with all his associate peers, Adam Ferry, occupational therapist and TOTS co-director, is thrilled that Deborah has joined TOTS. He concludes: "This synergy represents an exciting new chapter for us as we diversify from, yet complement, the discipline of occupational therapy. We believe to be truly holistic; it is important to learn and embrace all fields of associated expertise. This is now an opportunity for all of us, whether the trainer or trainee, to integrate practice for better understanding and enhanced outcomes." To book a training session click here or call: 0333 444 0062 * ENDS * The Occupational Therapy Service Established in 2014, the Occupational Therapy Service is the UK's foremost independent occupational therapy company providing international support for case managers, solicitors, insurers, retailers, equipment manufacturers and individuals in the community. It is led by three OT directors with expertise that is unsurpassed, namely RCOT Fellow and WFOT president Samantha Shann; award-winning Adam Ferry and Lucy Leonard. Together, these respected healthcare professionals head up a 100+ strong team of associates who deliver clinical, consultancy and training disciplines. 100% committed to leveraging the power of OT for positive outcomes, the Occupational Therapy Service has an outstanding track record and reputation. For further information please contact: Jon Nock Director iDIS Creative Marketing Limited 6B (First Floor), The Courtyard Meadow Bank, Furlong Road Bourne End, Buckinghamshire. SL8 5AU Mob: +44(0)7786 245896 Email: jon@idiscreativemarketing.co.uk www.idiscreativemarketing.co.uk Issued on behalf of: The Occupational Therapy Service 8 Linnet Court, Cawledge Business Park Alnwick Northumberland NE66 2GD Email: admin@theotservice.co.uk www.theotservice.co.uk
ScribeEMR and Sandiola™ Announce Partnership to Offer Enhanced RCM and AI-Powered Total CDI
Mon, Aug 10, 2026 01:22 EDT
Sandiola and ScribeEMR today announced a strategic partnership to offer AI with human-in-the-loop solutions clinical documentation integrity (CDI, RCM, Coding and Virtual Office Services ) to hospitals, health systems, and community health providers . "We're pleased to announce this partnership with Sandiola, a leader in CDI and DRG optimization, to help our community hospital and health system clients improve the quality of their clinical documentation and optimize reimbursement," says Terry Ciesla, Senior Vice President of ScribeEMR. "Sandiola's clients now have the opportunity to access our best-in-class AI documentation solutions, specialty virtual scribes, coding services, and virtual medical office services that maximize revenue, improve efficiency and healthcare quality." ScribeEMR provides AI-powered medical charting, real-time remote physician scribing, revenue cycle management, medical coding, and virtual medical office services (VMOS) to healthcare organizations nationwide. Its ScribeRyte AI platform, standalone or human-in-the-loop solutions delivers fast, highly accurate, HIPAA-compliant clinical documentation and supports workflows across leading EMRs. ScribeEMR was ranked "Best in KLAS for Virtual Scribing Services" for the third consecutive year in the 2026 Best in KLAS: Software & Services Report. The recognition reflects ScribeEMR's continued leadership in virtual scribing services and its broader commitment to healthcare documentation, AI-enabled workflow support, and medical office services. "ScribeEMR and Sandiola are a natural fit: they get the documentation right at the source, and we make sure it's fully captured on the back end," says Vinnie Whibbs, CEO of Sandiola. "For community hospitals, that combination means accurate acuity, improved reimbursement, stronger quality scores, and fewer denials - Total Clinical Documentation Integrity from the first note to final payment." Sandiola is a leading provider of AI-Powered Clinical Documentation Integrity and Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) optimization built exclusively for community hospitals and health systems. Their solutions combine technology and talent to capture acuity, secure full reimbursement, and defend against payer denials, on contingency, with a money-back guarantee. Sandpiper™, Sandiola's purpose-built CDI AI prioritization engine that reviews 100% of inpatient encounters to ensure patient acuity is accurately captured and the hospital is paid in full for the care it delivers. Paired with Sandiola's dual-certified CDI and Coding clinicians, Sandiola delivers Total Clinical Documentation Integrity for its hospital customers. Sandiola's Sandpiper is trained on years of actual CDI cases and powered by Anthropic's most advanced models and a proprietary machine-learning algorithm. Sandpiper reviews every chart in under a second and delivers 100% case coverage 24/7/365. About Sandiola Sandiola, LLC is a specialized AI technology and expert talent partner focused exclusively on Clinical Documentation Integrity for community hospitals and health systems. Sandiola is the partner of choice for hospitals seeking enhanced financial health, improved quality scores, and exceptional service. About ScribeEMR ScribeEMR provides AI-powered medical charting, real-time remote physician scribing, revenue cycle management (RCM), medical coding, and virtual medical office services (VMOS) to healthcare organizations nationwide. Its ScribeRyte AI platform delivers fast, highly accurate, HIPAA-compliant clinical documentation and supports workflows across leading EMRs, including eClinicalWorks, Epic, Athenahealth, NextGen, Greenway, and others. ScribeEMR was ranked Best in KLAS for Virtual Scribing Services in the 2024, 2025 and 2026, Best in KLAS: Software & Services Reports and was rated highly in a KLAS First Look report for its ScribeRyte AI platform. For more information, visit www.scribeemr.com and follow ScribeEMR on LinkedIn.
