Harnessing wind power for international shipping: Wingsail pioneers WingTek secure £2.2m Innovate UK and UK Department of Transport Clean Maritime funding
Mon, Mar 18, 2024 10:42 EDT
Bristol-based maritime engineering start-up WingTek, in collaboration with the National Composites Centre and the University of Bristol, has won a £2.2m innovation grant. Awarded under the UK Department for Transport Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, the funding from Innovate UK is to develop further the WingTek Wingsail, a unique Wind Auxiliary Propulsion (WAP) system designed to be retrofitted easily to existing commercial vessels. Wind Auxiliary Propulsion is a technology that complements existing ship propulsion systems; primarily the marine diesel engines burning fossil fuels which power vessels of all types across the global fleet. WAP enables significant reductions in fuel use and therefore harmful emissions from these ships. Neil Richards, WingTek Managing Director, said: "WingTek's innovative Wind Auxiliary Propulsion system has received a significant boost thanks to the help and support of Innovate UK leading to this grant. We are delighted to be working with a fantastic set of project partners at the University of Bristol and the National Composites Centre and we are now well supported to fast-track the development on the route to commercial production." The project will deliver two full-size operational prototypes, one on-shore for long-term testing and development and a second unit installed on a commercial UK vessel for sea-trials, with the project scheduled to complete by March 2025. A hybrid energy solution for international shipping "Think of this as a renewable energy fuel saver for commercial ships," explained Neil. "Wind is free and available across the planet and can be harnessed by the world's existing shipping fleets to reduce its consumption of fossil fuels." There are around 55,000 commercial ships in excess of 5,000 tonnes worldwide, burning an estimated 250 million tonnes of fossil fuels annually. Harnessing windpower to reduce dependence on fossil fuels Neil added: "Any reduction in this colossal fuel consumption has immediate benefits. The commercial and environmental value of adding WingTek Wingsails is evident - on routes such as the North Atlantic and the North Sea, the savings can be substantial and rise significantly when used in conjunction with weatherrouting." "We can save ship operators fuel costs and greenhouse gas emissions, whether the ship has a traditional engine burning fossil fuels or one burning newer, but more expensive, clean alternatives. Our wind propulsion systems can be retrofitted to existing vessels, designed into new-builds, and easily removed when decommissioned or re-installed on another vessel in the fleet," continued Neil. Reducing pressures on ship operators WingTek Chairman, Roger Francis, said: "We started with a sea-proven design with a long pedigree which we've refined and developed based on our own direct maritime operational experience. The result is a resilient solution developed using state of the art tools, materials and control technologies." "Fleet operators are under pressure to reduce their carbon emissions and operating costs by reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The WingTek Wingsail system provides a practical and workable solution for both vessel owners and charter operators". InnovateUK supports Net Zero for maritime operators InnovateUK has awarded the "Wings for Ships" project led by WingTek Ltd a grant of £2.2m under the UK Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Round 3 (CMDC3), for wind-assisted ship propulsion development aimed at helping the shipping industry reach Net Zero by 2050. Under the grant, project partners The University of Bristol (UoB) and Bristol-based National Composites Centre (NCC) will work with WingTek to deliver two prototype wingsails for the project. The NCC and University of Bristol bring research expertise to the project The National Composites Centre will contribute its knowledge and expertise in composite design and structural analysis in the development of the two demonstration prototypes. James Graham, Chief Engineer for Surface Transport at the NCC, said: "The CMDC3 award is an example of how the National Composites Centre is well positioned to support the marine sector realise their Net Zero ambitions. With expertise ranging from digital engineering to state-of-the-art end-of-life solutions, we are on board with support to accelerate the design, manufacture, and operation of UK-made clean maritime technologies." The University of Bristol will provide their expertise in 2D and 3D computational fluid modelling of aerodynamics, wind tunnel facilities for physical model testing and energy system modelling. Professor Ann Gaitonde from University of Bristol's School of Civil, Aerospace and Design Engineering, said: "We are excited to be part of the WingTek Wings for Ships project. The WingTek Wind Assisted Propulsion technology being developed has the opportunity both to transform the emissions from shipping and allow straightforward adoption by the commercial fleet." Notes to editors: Image caption 1: CAD model demonstrating WingTek solution on a shipping vessel at sea. Image caption 2: CAD model of the WingTek wingsail. The WingTek founders have an impressive pedigree: Chairman, Capt. Roger Francis, CMMar, is a Chartered Master Mariner who has been involved in wingsail technology on commercial ships since 1986, when he was master of the MV Ashington, the first UK commercial vessel to be equipped with a wingsail. The original Walker Wingsail installed on the Ashington is widely acknowledged as one of the first to have demonstrated that wingsails could be an effective technology for fuel saving on commercial ships. Roger was one of the first Master Mariners to be awarded Chartered Master Mariner status in recognition of his expertise in both wingsails and ship routing in challenging navigational situations such as the Dover Straits and at Land's End. The Chartered Master Mariner honour is bestowed on members of both the Royal and Merchant Navies of all maritime nations of which, as of December 2023, there were exactly 100 recipients worldwide. Director, Capt. Gareth Armstrong, is an active serving Trinity House Deep Sea Pilot and former sea Captain with over 40 years of worldwide maritime experience including passenger vessels, general cargo, tankers, RoRo ships and container carriers. Gareth has progressed through the ranks of his sea career working for Cunard, Bank Line and Andrew Weir Shipping. Over the last 18 years he has piloted over 350 merchant ships, primarily large car carriers, Ultra Large 400m container ships and passenger vessels between ports across Northern Europe. Managing Director, Neil Richards, has over four decades of experience in engineering development and operations in a range of industries, managing international projects and bringing complex multi-disciplinary systems to market. He has worked in both large corporations and start-ups including commercial roles in technical sales and business development and has been awarded a number of engineering patents. Media interviews: To arrange an interview with one of the WingTek directors or for further information, contact: Karen Morledge or Catherine Dhanjal on 07717 756644 or email karen@morledgeandco.com / catherine@morledgeandco.com
For Seventh Year, Steptoe & Johnson Named One of Kentucky's Best Places to Work
Mon, Mar 18, 2024 09:26 EDT
Steptoe & Johnson PLLC has been named to the 20th Annual " Best Places to Work in Kentucky " list by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the Kentucky Society for Human Resource Management. This marks the seventh consecutive year that the firm has been named to this list. With offices in Lexington and Louisville, Steptoe & Johnson is listed in the "large companies" category which includes employers with 500 or more U.S. employees. "All of us in the Louisville office are proud to be named once again as one of the best places to work in Kentucky," said Steptoe & Johnson's Louisville Office Managing Member Benjamin Riddle. "We work hard to live up to our firm's Core Values of treating people with fairness and dignity while valuing diversity and teamwork, and this recognition confirms that work has paid off." "The Lexington office is delighted to be one of Kentucky's best places to work again," remarked Steptoe & Johnson's Lexington Office Managing Member Jeffrey Phillips. "From serving our clients to serving our communities we genuinely care and help each other which makes us a great place to work and I'm happy to see that recognized." The "Best Places to Work" are selected after an assessment done by Workforce Research Group of the company's employee policies and procedures and a survey of employee engagement and satisfaction. The final rankings of each company will be announced at an awards dinner to be held at the Central Bank Center in Lexington, KY on Thursday, June 13.
Sabio Disrupt 2024: Where AI Meets CX...and Barack Obama joins Steve Jobs!
Mon, Mar 18, 2024 08:16 EDT
By Joe O'Brien, Head of Communications at Sabio Group At Sabio's Disrupt 2024 in London earlier this week, Barack Obama - the former President of the United States - discussed the future of customer experience (CX), focusing on the risk and rewards associated with artificial intelligence (AI). Moments earlier, Steve Jobs, the late, great former Apple boss, re-enforced the event's theme through his opening monologue, claiming 'the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones that do." And yes, you did read those opening paragraphs correctly! Granted - the appearances of Messrs Jobs and Obama were the result of AI-powered avatars, but the underlying message was clear; AI is here, it's potential is huge and it's going to have an impact whether you're prepared for it or not! Disrupt's Growing Legacy Now in its eighth year, Sabio's Disrupt has become a mainstay of the CX calendar attracting brands and specialists from all across Europe. It's become renowned for its ability to capture not only the current CX landscape (warts and all) but also provide insights into what's potentially coming down the line. Hosted once again by Sabio's Chief Innovation Officer, Stuart Dorman , the event kicked off with a thought-provoking opening address delivered by Jobs' avatar, setting the stage for the discussions to follow. AI was a recurring theme throughout and it was Stuart's interview with the AI-generated Obama that truly captured the audience's attention. In an admittedly risky, live Q&A, Stuart chatted with the former president who shared his insights on the future of CX but also showcased the power of AI by delivering a CX-related rap (or at least he was supposed to - but the AI refused thus inadvertently providing live proof that although the technology is here, it isn't quite bullet-proof just yet!). Endless AI possibilities for Customer Service - but caution remains From AI-driven avatars enhancing store and check-in experiences to AI-powered translation technology enabling multilingual customer support, the possibilities are endless. However, Daniel Seaborne, Managing Director - UK & South Africa at Sabio , reminded us that "AI will not solve all of our problems" and instead technology should be viewed as a facilitator for delivering better CX, not a replacement for human interaction. Fail Fast to Continuously Improve Similarly, to previous years, the panellist sessions throughout the day sparked some interesting and thought-provoking discussions. One of which came via Dr Brett Hewitt, Engineering Manager at Zuto , disruptors of the car finance industry. Dr. Hewitt insisted brands needed to adopt a 'fail fast' mindset, emphasising that this approach allows organisations to quickly roll out new initiatives and gauge their effectiveness. It also highlights the crucial relationship between contact centre and technology teams in driving innovation. As CX professionals, we must also embrace a culture of continuous improvement. Helen Wilson, Chief Operations Officer at Atom Bank , shared their approach of viewing every contact as an opportunity to identify and address service failures. By using insights gained from customer interactions, organisations can continually tweak and improve the customer journey. The Role of the Contact Centre Agent Continues to Evolve The event also shed light on the evolving role of contact centre agents in the age of AI. As AI takes over routine tasks, agents' roles will become more specialised and focused on managing complex, emotionally charged customer interactions. This shift necessitates a greater emphasis on empathy, emotional intelligence, and resilience training for agents. As Jason Roberts, Founder & Director of Appropriate Consulting , noted, the future will see "a tighter, more focused pool of work coming in, but with higher emotional risk." Disrupt also served as a reminder of the importance of empowering team leaders in any tech journey. As Martin Teasdale, Founder & Host of Get Out of Wrap , pointed out, team leaders play a crucial role in the success of any operation, and we must consider how AI and other technologies can be deployed to support them in their day-to-day responsibilities. The Future of CX lies in the Hands of Specialised Professionals I am convinced more than ever that the future of CX lies in the hands of specialised professionals who can adapt to the rapidly changing landscape. We must work towards professionalising the sector, creating broader career opportunities, and changing the societal perception of working in a contact centre. Sabio's UK Disrupt served as a powerful reminder that the CX industry is on the cusp of a transformative era driven by AI and data. AI is no longer a distant dream but a reality that is already transforming the way we interact with customers. From AI-powered avatars and translation technology to predictive analytics and 3D data models, the possibilities are endless. However, amidst the excitement, there was also a sobering reminder that the technology is not a silver bullet. Its success will depend on how well we integrate it into our existing processes, how effectively we train our teams to work alongside it, and how ethically we deploy it to enhance, rather than replace, human connections. Nina Schick, Author, Entrepreneur, and the event's keynote speaker, rounded the day off nicely by saying: "AI is already woven into the fabric of our lives... We're only at the beginning." It's an overused saying, but the future is indeed here. It's now time for us all to embrace it. *****ends*****
Team 'Wild Waves' Set to Conquer "World's Toughest Row" Across Pacific Ocean
Mon, Mar 18, 2024 08:16 EDT
Just over two years after shocking the ocean rowing world by setting a new record for the fastest female pair to row across the Atlantic, best friends and adventure seekers Jessica Oliver and Charlotte Harris are eyeing an even bigger prize - becoming the fastest women's team to conquer the Pacific. The dynamic duo, known as 'Team Wild Waves', will embark on the 2,800-mile journey from Monterey Bay, California to Hawaii in June as part of the annual 'World's Toughest Row - Pacific challenge'. This extreme endurance challenge sees up to 20 teams from around the world depart the historic Monterey harbour each June, following in the path of legendary explorers to race across the mid-Pacific. 'Team Wild Waves' is being supported through further sponsorship from Sabio Group, the digital experience transformation services specialist, who will help fuel their quest to etch their names into the record books once again on the "World's Toughest Row." Sabio's support for Jessica and Charlotte, from Cheltenham in Gloucestershire and Fleet in Hampshire respectively, is part of their #Dare2Do campaign this year, which aims to support organisations and individuals who are breaking boundaries, challenging themselves, and harnessing innovation.
Expert SGS conformity assessment services for Qatari food products
Mon, Mar 18, 2024 06:13 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is pleased to provide details of Qatar's conformity assessment program for food. This program, implemented and monitored by the Food Safety Department of Qatar's Ministry of Public Health (MoPH-FSD), recognizes SGS as an approved body, enabling the company to provide product assessment services and issue certificates of conformity (CoC) for food consignments to the country. As a MoPH-FSD approved assessment body, SGS assesses restricted products, including meat and meat products, honey, seafood and genetically modified products, against Qatari technical standards and regional requirements. Comprehensive expert advice is available throughout the certification process, including support with registration for the electronic safety system WATEQ, quality management systems, labeling, inspection reports and required product sample analysis documentation. Full details of regulated food product categories are also available. With decades of experience in managing conformity assessment programs around the world, SGS's global network provides cost-effective and tailored solutions for businesses, ensuring the regulatory conformity of shipments and boosting product quality. The full article on Qatar's food regulations and SGS's conformity assessment services is available in the Q1 PCA newsletter .
SGS wins contract to provide PVoC services for specialized oil and gas equipment in Uganda
Mon, Mar 18, 2024 06:04 EDT
SGS is delighted to announce that from March 1, 2024, on behalf of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU), it will provide pre-export verification of conformity (PVoC) services to exporters and importers of specialist oil and gas materials and equipment. SGS was approved by the PAU to review, inspect and certify applicable regulated products and support exporters and importers throughout the certification process. This includes physical inspections prior to shipping, sampling and testing in accredited laboratories, and document verification. Successful products are issued a certificate of conformity (CoC), demonstrating compliance with applicable standards and regulations prior to shipping. In collaboration with the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), the PAU) monitors and regulates the oil and gas industry in the country, implementing quality assurance for specialist equipment and materials based on approved standards and technical regulations. SGS is a world leader in product conformity services, with many decades of experience operating in a wide variety of countries, including Burundi, Cameroon, Central Africa Republic, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gabon, Cote d'Ivoire Republic, Kenya, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, South Sudan, Tanzania and Zanzibar. Learn more about Uganda PAU PVoC Program .
Pallet Truck Shop Offers Insight into How Warehouses Can Unlock Peak Performance Through Design
Mon, Mar 18, 2024 05:26 EDT
With the growth of eCommerce not expected to slow down any time soon, the demands placed on warehouses are bigger than ever. Pallet Truck Shop, a leading provider of material handling equipment, urges logistics businesses to optimise their warehouse space for maximised efficiency. As consumer demand rebounds, streamlining warehouse processes becomes paramount for swift order fulfilment and a competitive edge. In a warehouse, every square foot of floor space counts, and learning how to design a warehouse in a way that doesn't leave any space unused may be more a challenge than most warehouse managers realise. To help out, Pallet Truck Shop offers 4 top tips: Utilise vertical space with high-bay racking to increase storage capacity without adding more space. Also consider adjustable shelving to accommodating fluctuating inventory needs. Map the current workflow, identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies. Designate specific zones for receiving, picking, packing and shipping to minimise backtracking and ensure smooth product flow. Categorise inventory based on demand (A - high, B - medium, C - low). Store high-demand (A) items in easily accessible locations near picking zones. Utilise bulk storage solutions like pallet racking for less frequently accessed (C) items. Invest in material handling equipment tailored to your specific needs. Regular and electric pallet trucks as well as weighing-scale trucks are all essential items that are ideal in warehouses of all sizes. Pallet Truck Shop offers a comprehensive range of material handling equipment to empower businesses in creating a maximally efficient warehouse. From manual and electric pallet trucks to stackers, order pickers, and weighing scale trucks, they provide solutions tailored to diverse needs. "The recent rise in retail sales highlights the importance of a robust logistics infrastructure," says Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Pallet Truck Shop. "A well-designed warehouse layout, coupled with efficient material handling solutions, empowers businesses to meet heightened demand seamlessly. We hope that, by using our products, warehouse managers can feel more confident and trusting in their operations." To find out more about the wide range of lift equipment available from Pallet Truck Shop, visit https://www.pallettruckshop.co.uk/
"Mauna" è Silenzio.
Mon, Mar 18, 2024 05:07 EDT
Dopo anni di Silenzio, la casa di profumiera artistica Mendittorosa annuncia un nuovo profumo ispirato al Silenzio che sarà presentato in occasione dell'Equinozio di Primavera. Mendittorosa è una testimonianza della squisita arte della profumeria artigianale, che si erge inflessibile nel suo impegno verso l'artigianato senza compromessi: ogni fragranza è un capolavoro esclusivo e in edizione limitata. Più che un profumo, è un tocco etereo per anime libere. Il cuore dell'arte artigianale italiana batte in ogni aspetto di Mendittorosa , dalla creazione meticolosa delle fragranze alla lavorazione dei flaconi, fino all'elegante confezione, tutti nati dalle mani di abili artigiani italiani. Mauna è il quinto elemento della "Collezione Talismani Classici" di Mendittorosa, che segue le orme di Le Mat , Sogno Reale , Nettuno e Sirio . Infatti, Mauna avvolge e abbraccia tutti gli elementi simbolici nel suo ampio e silenzioso abbraccio. Si presenta in un flacone da 100 ml con un ricco Extrait de Parfum al 24%.
New Year resolutions failed? Join the club, but there is an answer.
Mon, Mar 18, 2024 04:41 EDT
Why don't New Years resolutions work and what does? A new website brings both answers, and a solution. ipledge2.com shares that 90% of people's New Year resolutions aren't successful. Resolutions are rushed, too broad, ill thought out and therefore, doomed to fail. What is the answer? According to Tim Evans at ipledge2.com and the supporting research, 'creating and sharing a Pledge' is the secret to making changes stick. Tim explains, "Taking the time to think through the Pledge, being specific with clear goals and sharing the Pledge with others makes it much more achievable! These measures mean you are more likely to succeed in making a sustained change. In fact, our research indicates that you're 42% more likely to achieve your goals just by writing them down." Tim shares that, "ipledge2.com can be used for many types of Pledges. We expect one of the most popular options to be Life Pledges. This would cover, for example a Pledge from teenagers to parents and family. Such as that they'll Never: Carry a Weapon. Never: Join a gang. Will: Walk away from a fight. These are potentially life changing Pledges that every parent should get from their child." ipledge2.com has five categories Do: Support: Stop: Never: Event. These allow users to make and share Pledges to change their lives and those of people around them. Whether it is a pledge to change job, travel. Beat cancer. Show your support for peace in Ukraine or Post Office Sub-Postmasters. Stop smoking or never be boring, carry weapons or join a gang or a specific event like sky diving or running a marathon. A Pledge can be anything. Tim added, "Pledging can be an incredibly powerful and life changing tool. Creating and sharing a Pledge creates a commitment that cannot easily be ignored. Pledging allows each of us to positively change our lives and have a voice to support what we are passionate about." There is no charge for registering or creating Pledges via iPledge2.com. Users define the Pledge including what success is and can support others to encourage success. Get started at ipledge2.com
Europe's top blind footballers set for showdown at Hereford's Royal National College for the Blind (RNC)
Sat, Mar 16, 2024 06:58 EDT
The cream of European blind football descends upon the Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford on Saturday 30 March 2024, for a thrilling Round 3 clash in the European Blind Football League (EBFL). This Champions League-style event will see Europe's finest blind footballers - many of whom will be vying for glory at the Paralympics later this year - battle it out on the pitch at the UK's home of blind football in Hereford. The tournament boasts a prestigious line-up, featuring: Bondy Cécifoot Club (Paris, France) Cécifoot Charleroi (Belgium) Borussia Dortmund (Germany) Pirsos Thessaloniki (Greece) ASDD Roma (Italy) RNC Hereford (England) The home team, RNC Hereford, currently dominates the League with a perfect record of 12 points after two convincing victories in Rome earlier this month, putting them ahead of last year's champions, Cécifoot Charleroi. Adding another dimension to the excitement, RNC players are tearing up the goalscorers' table, with a staggering five players in the top 10. Leading the pack is RNC's very own Eesa Amjid, boasting an impressive five goals after just two rounds. "This tournament provides a fantastic platform for RNC's talented young squad to gain invaluable international experience and showcase their skills on a grand stage," said Adam Bendall, RNC's Head Coach. "Blind football is a fast-paced and exhilarating sport, and this event features some of Europe's best players. We're honoured to host this competition, welcome the public, and raise awareness for this incredible sport." This is a unique opportunity to witness the beautiful game played at the highest level. With top international talent on display, passionate competition, and a vibrant atmosphere, this promises to be a truly unforgettable event. All matches will be streamed live on the College's YouTube channel, ensuring fans worldwide can witness this exceptional display of blind football. Whether in person or online, don't miss this glorious sporting opportunity to see future Paralympic stars take centre stage!
Yes, Carrots Are Good for Your Vision
Fri, Mar 15, 2024 16:52 EDT
"Carrots are a good source of Vitamin A, which is known to improve eye health." - Albert Arteaga, M.D. REDLANDS, CALIF. - During April, we celebrate International Carrot Day. The old saying about carrots being good for your vision is true. Carrots have nutrients that help eye health in several ways. Chief among them is Vitamin A. "Carrots are a good source of Vitamin A, which is known to improve eye health," says Dr. Albert Arteaga, President of LaSalle Medical Associates, one of the largest privately owned and operated healthcare organizations in the Inland Empire. The 2023 Digital Health Award-winning Internet site, All About Vision , says that the Vitamin A in carrots provides several benefits, including: Protecting your corneas Decreasing the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration Delaying peripheral vision loss Creating a protective layer against bacteria and viruses Alleviating the symptoms of dry eye syndrome Slowing vision loss in people with retinitis pigmentosa Impeding the progression of Stargardt's disease (early onset central vision loss) On the other hand, vitamin A deficiency can cause: Dry eyes Night blindness Vision loss "Parents who have children who don't like the taste of raw or cooked carrots by themselves may be able to get their kids to eat them by combining carrots with other foods that are rich in Vitamin A and add sweet-tooth-pleasing flavors, such as mangoes, cantaloupes, sweet red peppers, and sweet potatoes," said Dr. Arteaga. Carrots also contain beta-carotene, which is what gives red, orange, and yellow vegetables their color. Once eaten, your body converts it into retinol, another name for vitamin A. Healthline points out that research shows that beta-carotene is also good for your skin and may even improve cognitive health, although more research is needed about that. Dr. Arteaga adds one caution: If you eat too many beta-carotene-rich foods, your skin may start to turn yellow. "All things in moderation," he says. "It is recommended that both children and adults undergo an annual check-up. At LaSalle, the checkup includes a comprehensive blood workup that can identify any vitamin deficiencies. This enables doctors to provide tailored suggestions regarding medicine, diet, and exercise that are specific to the needs of each patient," explained Dr. Arteaga. For an appointment at one of the six Inland Empire LaSalle clinics, please visit LaSalleMedicalAssociates.com or call 1-855-349-6019. About LaSalle Medical Associates LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. is one of the largest independent and Latino-owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties . The corporate office is in Redlands . LaSalle is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals, and clinics, delivering high-quality patient care to over 350,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino and Tulare counties.
Pittsburg Receives $3.7 Million in Grants
Fri, Mar 15, 2024 16:34 EDT
City is set to make waterfront parks a destination for residents and visitors. The City of Pittsburg plans significant improvements to its Central Harbor Park and surrounding parking lots, located along the City's waterfront on the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. The City is committed to its mission of encouraging public access to its waterfront. The proposed improvements will contribute to Pittsburg's ongoing revitalization efforts and expand the character of the City's downtown core - a priority outlined in the City's General Plan. "We anticipate increased interest from boaters, members of our community, and visitors to the waterfront and Old Town areas," says Pittsburg Mayor Juan Antonio Banales. "We don't want this to be a 'hidden gem' any longer - this can be a catalyst for commercial opportunities and a way to generate more foot traffic for businesses in the Old Town and Marina areas." Pittsburg City Manager, Garrett Evans, adds, "Pittsburg has one of the best maintained and well-positioned waterfronts along the Delta. These planned upgrades will increase tourism while also providing recreational and educational opportunities for residents and visitors. These are historically high-traffic areas, with boaters, fishermen, joggers, and others who want to enjoy this amazing location." The project upgrades will include new park features such as an upgraded shade structure picnic tables, a play structure, new public restrooms, tourist-targeted signs and viewing benches, a fish cleaning station, and improved accessible paths of travel in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Resurfacing of the parking area, along with additional security improvements via a new Pittsburg Police Department substation, are also part of the project. Regional environmental groups have also bought into the effort of this burgeoning East Bay city on the south shore of Suisun Bay. The project took root in late 2021, with a grant of $172,155 from Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy via the California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access for All Act of 2018 - commonly known as "Prop 68". This was followed in March 2023 by a $3.65 million Climate, Access, and Resource grant from the Delta Conservancy, which aims to increase equity, improve public health, and create economic opportunity. The project was prompted by resident feedback about the needs of the community surrounding areas as well as safety concerns. During the planning process, the City conducted community and stakeholder engagement, focusing on the areas most immediately surrounding the facilities as well as users of the boat launch facility. As the project came into focus during the pandemic, the City also recognized the need for more outdoor recreational opportunities. "Completion is scheduled for 2026. It's our goal to ensure the residents in the area can take advantage of the improvements and enjoy a significant upgrade to their neighborhood. Not only will access and recreational opportunities improve, but so will the economic prospects for Pittsburg's waterfront businesses," said Sara Bellafronte, Assistant to the City Manager, who also headed up the grant application processes. For more information, call the City Manager's office at (925) 252-4850 or visit pittsburgca.gov. About The City of Pittsburg Incorporated in 1903, Pittsburg is located on the south shore of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta in Northern California, 30 miles east of San Francisco. The City has a population of 77,752 and operates under the council/manager form of government with its Police, Public Works, Community and Economic Development, Finance, Community Services, and Recreation Departments, as well as its utility divisions operating as the Pittsburg Power Company and Pittsburg Water. With more than 5,000 new housing units in the development pipeline, as well as large industrial corridors slated for redevelopment, Pittsburg is one of the fastest-growing cities in Contra Costa County. For more information, please call the City Manager's Office at (925) 252-4850.
Pittsburg Receives $3.7 Million in Grant Funding for Central Harbor Park and Surrounding Areas
Fri, Mar 15, 2024 15:34 EDT
City is set to make waterfront parks a destination for residents and visitors. _____ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PITTSBURG, CA - The City of Pittsburg plans significant improvements to its Central Harbor Park and surrounding parking lots, located along the City's waterfront on the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. The City is committed to its mission of encouraging public access to its waterfront. The proposed improvements will contribute to Pittsburg's ongoing revitalization efforts and expand the character of the City's downtown core - a priority outlined in the City's General Plan. "We anticipate increased interest from boaters, members of our community, and visitors to the waterfront and Old Town areas," says Pittsburg Mayor Juan Antonio Banales. "We don't want this to be a 'hidden gem' any longer - this can be a catalyst for commercial opportunities and a way to generate more foot traffic for businesses in the Old Town and Marina areas." Pittsburg City Manager, Garrett Evans, adds, "Pittsburg has one of the best maintained and well-positioned waterfronts along the Delta. These planned upgrades will increase tourism while also providing recreational and educational opportunities for residents and visitors. These are historically high-traffic areas, with boaters, fishermen, joggers, and others who want to enjoy this amazing location." The project upgrades will include new park features such as an upgraded shade structure picnic tables, a play structure, new public restrooms, tourist-targeted signs and viewing benches, a fish cleaning station, and improved accessible paths of travel in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Resurfacing of the parking area, along with additional security improvements via a new Pittsburg Police Department substation, are also part of the project. Regional environmental groups have also bought into the effort of this burgeoning East Bay city on the south shore of Suisun Bay. The project took root in late 2021, with a grant of $172,155 from Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy via the California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access for All Act of 2018 - commonly known as "Prop 68". This was followed in March 2023 by a $3.65 million Climate, Access, and Resource grant from the Delta Conservancy, which aims to increase equity, improve public health, and create economic opportunity. The project was prompted by resident feedback about the needs of the community surrounding areas as well as safety concerns. During the planning process, the City conducted community and stakeholder engagement, focusing on the areas most immediately surrounding the facilities as well as users of the boat launch facility. As the project came into focus during the pandemic, the City also recognized the need for more outdoor recreational opportunities. "Completion is scheduled for 2026. It's our goal to ensure the residents in the area can take advantage of the improvements and enjoy a significant upgrade to their neighborhood. Not only will access and recreational opportunities improve, but so will the economic prospects for Pittsburg's waterfront businesses," said Sara Bellafronte, Assistant to the City Manager, who also headed up the grant application processes. For more information, call the City Manager's office at (925) 252-4850 or visit pittsburgca.gov. About The City of Pittsburg Incorporated in 1903, Pittsburg is located on the south shore of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta in Northern California, 30 miles east of San Francisco. The City has a population of 77,752 and operates under the council/manager form of government with its Police, Public Works, Community and Economic Development, Finance, Community Services, and Recreation Departments, as well as its utility divisions operating as the Pittsburg Power Company and Pittsburg Water. With more than 5,000 new housing units in the development pipeline, as well as large industrial corridors slated for redevelopment, Pittsburg is one of the fastest-growing cities in Contra Costa County. For more information, please call the City Manager's Office at (925) 252-4850.
Approved SGS certification services for the Saudi Quality Mark
Fri, Mar 15, 2024 11:28 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is happy to present its expert product conformity services for businesses looking to secure Saudi Arabia's mandatory quality mark for regulated goods. The Saudi Quality Mark (SQM) is implemented by the Saudi Arabia Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO), as per Saudi Cabinet Decree 216 dated 17/06/1431 H. To achieve the license required to display the SQM, a regulated product must undergo rigorous testing and meet all applicable Saudi Arabian regulations and standards. Once received, the license is valid for three years, with an annual surveillance inspection. As a notified body approved by SASO, SGS Gulf Limited can assess and certify regulated products for the SQM, enabling conformance, increased consumer trust, successful custom port entry and increased sales. The full list of mandated products is available from SGS and includes gas appliances, cement and ceramic tiles, household and general use plugs, switches and sockets and ready-mix concrete. A list is also available for voluntary SQM certification, which can be obtained for any product. SGS delivers conformity assessment programs on behalf of government authorities in many countries, including Kuwait, Kenya, Egypt, Algeria, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda and Ethiopia. Its customer-focused solutions for testing, inspection and certification help businesses all over the world achieve compliant market entry and product differentiation. Full details of SGS's SQM services, including product categories, can be found in the Q1 PCA newsletter .
SGS renews contract for PVoC services in Cameroon
Fri, Mar 15, 2024 11:17 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is delighted to announce that its contract for pre-export verification of conformity (PVoC) services with Cameroon has once again been renewed. The company's first contract was approved by Cameroon's Agence des Normes et de la Qualité in March 2016. This latest renewal recognizes contribution SGS has made to product quality assurance in the country over the eight years. Cameroon's pre-shipment conformity assessment program (PECAE) now extends to all products imported into the country. Designed to strengthen quality surveillance, prevent the importation of dangerous goods, reassure consumers and protect local producers from unfair competition, PECAE is a mandatory regulation. In response to the success of a complimentary webinar, 'Cameroon: Pre-export verification of conformity program', which attracted over 300 attendees in January 2024, another session is now planned for the second quarter of 2024. SGS's comprehensive trade facilitation services support governments, government agencies and the private sector, reducing complexity in global supply chains, securing duties and taxes and verifying regulated products. Further details of SGS's PVoC services for Cameroon are available in the Q1 PCA newsletter .
Teacher confidence up but workloads still causing concerns
Fri, Mar 15, 2024 06:49 EDT
Challenging workloads remain one of the biggest issues confronting educators, even as many UK teachers report increased confidence in their abilities to teach our nation's children, according to Tes' latest Wellbeing Report. Over 6,500 responded to Tes' annual survey making this report the most comprehensive yet, with some key themes emerging as teachers continue to operate under ever tightening budgets and scrutiny. Some of the standout findings from the report were: Over 75% of respondents feel confident in their roles as educators and in their ability to educate the nation's children. There was an 11% increase to 37% in those with confidence in their school leadership. 61% of respondents believe their workload is not manageable, rising to 78% of SENCO's. 36% of respondents said their school has implemented time saving behaviour management software or practices, and 20% say their school uses timetabling software. 58% believe their school makes a real effort to make everyone feel like part of a community. Rod Williams, CEO of Tes, said; "Though some existing challenges remain, there are real signs for optimism as leaders listen to their teachers, with many taking advantage of opportunities to change how they do things. It's especially great to see an increase in staff being proud to work in their schools, and a big jump in professional positivity. The sense of community is compelling as teachers and leaders continue to do their best for their students." Another key insight was an increase in tools and technology being used by schools. This includes over a third of teachers saying their schools are implementing time saving behaviour management software or practices. There were also real-life examples such as streamlining staff meetings to try and alleviate the pressure on teaching staff. A fifth of respondents (up 5% from 2023) noted that their school had used timetabling software, helping enable more efficient scheduling to give time back to educators. There was also support in the shape of improved budget management practices such as budget management software which may have contributed to the boost in confidence. Although there are optimistic takeaways from the Tes Wellbeing Report 2024, 74% of teachers reported they've contemplated leaving the profession in the last year, and 78% of school leaders, citing issues with the education system more broadly, showing there is much more that needs to be done to address all the concerns of those at the forefront of education. Tes' Chief Product Officer Julian McClung said: "Tes' 2024 wellbeing report paints a complex picture, but one that is more positive than we would have considered even a year ago; though the numbers of those that have contemplated leaving the profession is high, we are encouraged that so many schools are adopting new working patterns and new technologies to try and relieve the administrative burden placed on teachers. Certainly, it is encouraging to see what impact Tes can have in this space, as we evolve more technologies to empower schools and enable great teaching." For more information on the Tes Wellbeing Report 2024, please visit: https://www.tes.com/en-gb/for-schools/content/tes-wellbeing-report
Local family-run electrician business celebrates 15 year anniversary
Fri, Mar 15, 2024 06:30 EDT
A Stourbridge-based, family-run business is celebrating a huge milestone as it marks 15 years in business. Since its inception in 2009 by husband and wife team, Stuart and Lisa Starkey, Starkey Electrical has been providing electrical solutions to the domestic, industrial and commercial sectors across the country. From its origins around the couple's dining table to now, the award-winning company has developed a strong customer base both regionally and UK-wide, alongside its talented team of 10 - including electricians and admin staff - over the past 15 years. During the Covid pandemic, Starkey Electrical supported key worker industries such as schools, healthcare providers, food chain providers, logistics, vets and pharmaceutical firms. In 2021, the couple set up StarkEV to meet the growing UK demand for EV chargers, installing and supplying them for hotels, spas, holiday lets, caravan parks, car parks and other industrial and commercial premises. Stuart Starkey, managing director at Starkey Electrical, said: "It's incredible to think how far we've come in the past 15 years. To celebrate such a milestone is an amazing achievement. "We may be a small company but we have always prided ourselves on providing outstanding customer service and this has allowed us to not only continue what we do, but grow and expand at the same time. A huge thank you to our fantastic team who carry that ethos with them too and work incredibly hard to help us make Starkey Electrical - and Stark EV - the successful company it is." Over the past decade and a half, Starkey Electrical has witnessed significant growth, transforming from a local provider to a regional - and now nationally recognised - business in the electrical industry. Lisa Starkey, director at Starkey Electrical, said: "Over the last 15 years, we've learned that even in a modern world, people still appreciate the personal touch, especially from a family business - that really is our USP. "The success of our business has enabled us to push boundaries and to get involved with developing other innovative products and services. But ultimately, our priority has always been to build strong relationships with our clients, understanding their unique needs and tailoring our services to their requirements - it's why we're proud to have enjoyed long lasting client relationships since the inception of our business 15 years ago." Starkey Electrical is a member of the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC), is CHAS accredited to ensure the health and safety of its staff and has NAPIT accreditation for creating and maintaining high standards of electrical installations. The company also has a strong sense of commitment to its local community, having raised almost £12,000 for various charities and organisations since 2018. Looking ahead, Starkey Electrical remains dedicated to its core values of innovation, exceptional customer service and a family-oriented approach.
New Year resolutions failed? Join the club, but there is an answer.
Fri, Mar 15, 2024 04:47 EDT
Why don't New Years resolutions work and what does? A new website brings both answers, and a solution. ipledge2.com shares that 90% of people's New Year resolutions aren't successful. Resolutions are rushed, too broad, ill thought out and therefore, doomed to fail. What is the answer? According to Tim Evans at ipledge2.com and the supporting research, 'creating and sharing a Pledge' is the secret to making changes stick. Tim explains, "Taking the time to think through the Pledge, being specific with clear goals and sharing the Pledge with others makes it much more achievable! These measures mean you are more likely to succeed in making a sustained change. In fact, our research indicates that you're 42% more likely to achieve your goals just by writing them down." Tim shares that, "ipledge2.com can be used for many types of Pledges. We expect one of the most popular options to be Life Pledges. This would cover, for example a Pledge from teenagers to parents and family. Such as that they'll Never: Carry a Weapon. Never: Join a gang. Will: Walk away from a fight. These are potentially life changing Pledges that every parent should get from their child." ipledge2.com has five categories Do: Support: Stop: Never: Event. These allow users to make and share Pledges to change their lives and those of people around them. Whether it is a pledge to change job, travel. Beat cancer. Show your support for peace in Ukraine or Post Office Sub-Postmasters. Stop smoking or never be boring, carry weapons or join a gang or a specific event like sky diving or running a marathon. A Pledge can be anything. Tim added, "Pledging can be an incredibly powerful and life changing tool. Creating and sharing a Pledge creates a commitment that cannot easily be ignored. Pledging allows each of us to positively change our lives and have a voice to support what we are passionate about." There is no charge for registering or creating Pledges via iPledge2.com. Users define the Pledge including what success is and can support others to encourage success. Get started at ipledge2.com
Same Team, New Name: Leading Holiday Letting Agency Rebrands to 'Stay in Suffolk'
Fri, Mar 15, 2024 04:28 EDT
They say you should never change a winning team - but sometimes a new name is needed. That is the case for Air Manage Suffolk, Suffolk's largest independent holiday letting agency, whose directors are proud to unveil a new identity: 'Stay in Suffolk'. This month's transition marks a milestone in the company's evolution. DHF Property Ltd has been trading as 'Air Manage Suffolk; for the last 5 years under license but will start trading as 'Stay in Suffolk' as of 16 th March 2024. It's core mission remains the same: to provide exceptional holiday experiences in the heart of Suffolk. Harry Embleton, Director and Co-Founder of Stay in Suffolk, says, "We're delighted to have freed ourselves from the shackles of the license/franchise model to launch our own local, quintessentially Suffolk branding. We believe that the name 'Stay in Suffolk' offers a greater opportunity to become the go-to destination for holidays in our beautiful county." Despite the new name, Stay in Suffolk stands as the same trusted holiday letting agency with an unwavering commitment to excellence. The same 300 properties, the same directors and owners (Harry Embleton 30, Shaquille Brand, 28, and Jake Read, 28.), the same dedicated staff, and the same three offices in Aldeburgh, Southwold, and Woodbridge - in short, the same winning team! With this rebrand, Stay in Suffolk is poised to continue its legacy as a leading player in Suffolk's vibrant holiday accommodation landscape. Harry adds, "As 'Air Manage Suffolk' was a name used under licence, there may be another company trading under it from March 2024 - it would not, however, be in any way associated with us. We want to reassure our valued clientele that the essence of the company remains unchanged under a new, better name." As Stay in Suffolk, the company looks forward to continuing its mission of offering a diverse range of properties, ensuring visitors experience the authentic charm of Suffolk, making memories that will stay with them forever. For more information, visit: https://stayinsuffolk.com
Amida Care and Unite Us Partner to Connect Health, Human, and Social Service Organizations in New York City
Thu, Mar 14, 2024 18:01 EDT
The new collaboration will enhance care coordination to address critical social needs that impact members' health in support of the New York 1115 Waiver Demonstration. Amida Care , New York's largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan specializing in providing comprehensive health coverage and coordinated care to people affected by HIV, and Unite Us , the nation's trusted technology partner for social care transformation, are partnering to address the unmet social needs for individuals across New York City through Unite Us' coordinated care network known as Unite NYC in preparation for the New York 1115 Waiver implementation. This partnership will securely connect Amida Care's members in need with community-based resources that can be difficult to navigate. Using the Unite Us Platform, the Unite NYC network enables health plans, providers, government, and community-based organizations (CBOs) to send and receive secure electronic referrals and track outcomes in real time. Members can connect to organizations specializing in various needs, including medical and behavioral health, food insecurity, housing and shelter, and legal services while delivering the Amida Care team visibility into the referral status and specific outcomes of each case. This streamlined approach to care coordination results in more seamless, proactive management of whole-person health to ensure that members' needs are met and provide deeper insights that can be used to drive preventative initiatives. "With the recent approval of New York state's 1115 Medicaid Waiver and new Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information reporting requirements, we are committed to supporting Amida Care as they take on a more prominent role in promoting health equity for the most vulnerable Medicaid members," said Marc Natale, New York State Director of Customer & Community Success at Unite Us. "Our partnership will connect Amida Care members to Unite Us' robust network of social care services, thereby increasing their access to needed care, lowering costs, and improving health outcomes." Participation in the Unite NYC network is free for CBOs and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) like community health centers, free clinics, and nonprofit organizations. The network provides a central point of collaboration for organizations to securely send and receive referrals to and from other network members to ensure new clients receive the necessary assistance they are seeking and deliver insights into the progress and outcomes of referrals at scale. By joining the network, organizations increase their visibility, helping them address co-occurring needs more effectively. "Since its founding 20 years ago, Amida Care has met the needs of New Yorkers affected by HIV by focusing on the coordination of health care and social services, creating a model of care that focuses on the whole health needs of our members," said Dr. Vera S. Antonios, Medical Director of Amida Care. "Our partnership with Unite Us will help us better support the New Yorkers we serve. Identifying our members' social challenges and connecting them to resources on one central platform will help our teams more effectively meet our members' needs. We are excited that we can offer this service to our members." Nonprofits, community-based organizations, and other providers seeking to connect their clients and patients to Amida Care services within the Unite NYC network are encouraged to reach out at uniteus.com/contact/ . Amida Care Media Contact: Shakira Croce, Director of Communications scroce@amidacareny.org, (917) 565-4444 About Amida Care Amida Care Inc. is a not-for-profit health plan that specializes in providing comprehensive health coverage and coordinated care to New Yorkers with complex conditions, including HIV and behavioral health disorders, and people who are of transgender experience or who are homeless (regardless of HIV status). Amida Care has a wide network of healthcare providers throughout New York City and is the largest Medicaid Special Needs Health Plan (SNP) in New York State. For more information, visit www.amidacareny.org .