Prairie Farms Family of Companies Celebrates Folds of Honor Partnership with Red, White & Boom Weekend in St. Louis
Wed, May 13, 2026 14:28 EDT
Weekend celebrations honor veterans, military families, and first responders with Heroes Edition ice cream launch The Prairie Farms Family of Companies will bring together employees, farmer-owners, and community partners for a weekend of purpose and celebration during the Red, White & Boom Kickoff Weekend, May 15-17 in St. Louis. Held in partnership with Folds of Honor, the weekend will feature activations at Ballpark Village and Busch Stadium centered around Red, White & Boom: Heroes Edition ice cream, highlighting the Prairie Farms Family of Companies' support of Folds of Honor and its mission to provide academic scholarships to the families of fallen and disabled military service members and first responders. Throughout the weekend, Prairie Farms and Hiland Dairy will serve free scoops of Red, White & Boom: Heroes Edition ice cream at the Prairie Farms Barn at Ballpark Village, with complimentary scoops available all season long for military members and first responders. Special $2.50 pricing for Red, White & Boom will also be offered to the general public throughout the baseball season. Weekend activities will include fan experiences, photo opportunities, and in-stadium celebrations tied to the launch of the summer program. "Red, White & Boom was created to capture the feeling of summer while supporting something much bigger than ourselves," said Ryan Murphy, Vice President of Marketing & Communications for Prairie Farms Family of Companies. "This weekend gives us an opportunity to bring people together, celebrate America's 250th anniversary, and recognize the families, veterans, and first responders who serve our communities every day." "With the Cardinals and Royals series bringing together fans from both Prairie Farms and Hiland Dairy brands, this weekend creates a great opportunity to celebrate baseball, summer, and support for military families through Folds of Honor," said Mike LaMartina, President, Ballpark Village St. Louis. The Red, White & Boom weekend marks the start of Prairie Farms and Hiland Dairy's summer promotion celebrating America's 250th anniversary, with each brand giving away 250 prizes to consumers throughout the season. A full schedule of weekend activities is attached. For more information, visit PrairieFarms.com/BOOM or HilandDairy.com/BOOM. ###
Downtown San Bernardino Recognized as a Clean California Community
Wed, May 13, 2026 14:02 EDT
The City of San Bernardino recently announced that its downtown area is one of the first 30 communities in the State of California to be designated a " Clean California Community " by Caltrans as part of the Clean CA initiative. The designation reflects a multi-year partnership between the City of San Bernardino, the Arts Connection/Arts Council of San Bernardino County , and local businesses Creative Grounds and Realicore. "Downtown San Bernardino's Caltrans Clean California Community designation is a proud moment for our City and reflects the hard work of our community and partners, said Mayor Helen Tran. "This recognition also affirms our commitment to building a vibrant downtown that welcomes residents, attracts new businesses, and strengthens San Bernardino's role as a hub for opportunity." "The Clean City's award, along with the remarkable drop in crime-now at a 25-year low-really makes Downtown an appealing spot for businesses. We're hearing from more companies interested in leasing or purchasing space here," shared Realicore's David Friedman. The Clean California Program was launched in 2021 by Caltrans to clean up, reclaim, transform, and beautify public spaces statewide. Caltrans developed the program in partnership with Keep America Beautiful and Keep California Beautiful. To become an officially designated Clean California Community, communities must meet at least 10 of the 15 established criteria. Communities with full designation status receive a variety of benefits, including priority access to grants, educational resources, and recognition on state websites, social media posts, and media outreach. Downtown San Bernardino's involvement with Clean California started in 2021, when the City Public Works Department, in partnership with local businesses and organizations, applied for and received a $722,000 grant to transform an alley between Court Street and 4 th Street into an active gathering place, called Sole Alley. "This achievement wouldn't have been possible without a broad community effort, said Friedman. "Small businesses, nonprofit, city council members, and residents all came together to make our city cleaner." Last summer, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced major milestones the program has achieved in the four years since its launch, including the removal of over 3 million cubic yards of litter and debris - enough trash to fill over 136,000 garbage trucks. "Cleaning up San Bernardino is about more than picking up trash-it's about restoring pride, building community, and showing our neighbors that this city is worth investing in," said Ray Blom, President of The City of San Bernardino Downtown Neighborhood Association. "He added, "When we take ownership of our streets and public spaces, we're also taking ownership of our future. Every cleanup is a step toward a safer, stronger, and more united San Bernardino." However, the initiative isn't just dedicated to picking up litter. Qualifying Clean California Community criteria include free dump days, public education programs, community cleanups, greening and beautification efforts, highway art installations, new parks, and improvements to transit stations. Communities must also implement a system to measure and document their progress. In recent years, the City of San Bernardino has undertaken additional projects to help beautify the Downtown. Among those projects are the renovation of the historic California Theater's front façade, the installation of solar lighting along several downtown corridors (2 nd , 4 th , and 6 th Streets), the repaving of 2 nd Street, and the demolition of the Carousel. "Downtown serves as the City's government and business center, with 38,250 people working there and 50,567 residents living there. It is home to 2,756 businesses that help sustain a lively economy, generating $6.7 billion in sales in 2024," said Mayor Helen Tran. "When I relocated to the City of San Bernardino 50 years ago, it was truly an idyllic place, and I see it returning to that state," said Rev. Chuck Singelton, pastor of Loveland Church. "That's why Loveland Church and Cascades Development Company are excited to be working in this great city once more." For more information about buying or leasing space in Downtown San Bernardino, contact David Freeman at (909) 486-2957 or email him at dfriedman@realicore.com . About Realicore Discover a one-stop shop designed to meet all your needs. Our Realicore agents bring a wealth of experience across various sectors, including industrial, retail, office, land, residential, and multifamily real estate, ensuring you find the perfect fit. With a strong reputation for prioritizing our clients' needs, Realicore has become a trusted name and a success story in the Inland Empire's commercial and residential real estate markets.
Shell Shock Technologies Launches .338 Lapua NAS3™ Cartridge Cases
Wed, May 13, 2026 10:00 EDT
New lightweight .338 Lapua two-piece case delivers increased internal capacity and higher velocities for civilian, military, and law enforcement marksmen. Shell Shock Technologies , LLC. (SST), a leading innovator in the ammunition industry, today announced the commercial release of its .338 Lapua NAS 3 ™ cartridge cases, now available online in quantities from 250 to 5,000. The launch extends SST's revolutionary NAS 3 two-piece technology - a corrosion-resistant nickel-alloy body locked to an ultra-durable stainless-steel head - into one of the most demanding long-range calibers used by precision rifle competitors, military sniper teams, and law enforcement tactical units. The .338 Lapua NAS 3 unloaded case delivers unmatched durability, reduced weight, and repeatable precision that outperforms traditional brass in every critical category. The cases are approximately 30 percent lighter than traditional brass and offer roughly 11 percent more internal volume, allowing more efficient energy use when powder is ignited. The result is the ability to achieve higher velocities at standard SAAMI pressures, with customers reporting standard-bullet velocities up to approximately 3,125 feet per second. "The .338 Lapua has been the benchmark for long-range performance for decades, and our NAS 3 platform takes it into a new performance class," Peter Foss , Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies. "By increasing internal case capacity by roughly 11 percent and reducing case weight by about 30 percent, we're giving shooters meaningful velocity gains and tighter shot dispersion. For military and law enforcement teams, that translates to extended effective range without compromising safety or reliability. For civilian precision shooters and competitive marksmen, it means a more consistent, longer-lasting case at a better cost per round." Manufactured to exacting tolerances, each .338 Lapua NAS 3 case delivers consistent internal volume, concentricity, and neck tension, the foundation of the tight velocity spreads required for sub-MOA accuracy at extended distances. The two-piece case construction is engineered to be lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and gentle on extractors, supporting flawless extraction and smooth ejection through repeated firing cycles. Key features of the .338 Lapua NAS 3 cartridge cases include: Two-piece construction: corrosion-resistant nickel alloy body locked to an ultra-durable stainless-steel head. Approximately 30 percent lighter than traditional brass for reduced carry weight in the field without sacrificing strength. Roughly 11 percent more internal capacity, enabling higher velocities at standard SAAMI pressures. Match-grade dimensional consistency for repeatable ignition and tighter group sizes. Designed for easy loading and extended service life, the unloaded cases reduce waste and lower total cost per round. Compatible with standard .338 Lapua Magnum load data and the full range of commercial, match, and tactical projectiles. From open-country big-game hunting and long-range competition to military special operations and law enforcement counter-sniper deployments, the .338 Lapua NAS 3 case is designed for the demands of high-pressure, high-volume shooting environments. Reduced case weight supports faster movement for dismounted operators, while extended service life supports cost-conscious civilian handloaders and high-round-count training programs. Shell Shock .338 Lapua NAS 3 unloaded cartridge cases are available now in quantities of 250, 500, 1,000, 2,500, and 5,000 directly from Shell Shock Technologies. For all larger orders, please email SST@shellshocktech.com . Keep up with Shell Tech's advanced ammunition on the website and social media platforms: Facebook , Instagram , X (formerly Twitter) , and YouTube .
Experienced Energy Lawyer Matthew London Returns to Steptoe & Johnson
Wed, May 13, 2026 09:50 EDT
Steptoe & Johnson PLLC is pleased to announce that Matthew London has rejoined the firm in the Energy and Natural Resources department as Of Counsel. He will be based in the Morgantown office, focusing his practice on energy transactions, contracts, and title matters. "Matt's return brings a valuable combination of in-house insight and transactional experience to our energy team," said Christopher L. Slaughter, CEO of Steptoe & Johnson. "His time within a leading energy company gives him a strong understanding of how legal strategy impacts business operations and positions him to guide our clients through complex deals." London advises energy clients on acquisitions and divestitures, due diligence, contract negotiation and compliance, and mineral title issues. He returns to Steptoe & Johnson after most recently serving as Senior Attorney for Corporate & Securities at EQT Corporation, where he facilitated securities filings to comply with SEC and NYSE regulations, managed subsidiaries, and helped develop and implement domestic and international KYC (Know Your Counterparty) processes to mitigate risks. London completed his law degree at New England Law Boston, his M.F.A at West Virginia University, and his B.A. at Waynesburg University.
Keeper Security Delivers Structured Governance for Humans and AI Agents with New PAM Approval Workflows in KeeperPAM
Wed, May 13, 2026 08:56 EDT
Keeper Security Delivers Structured Governance for Humans and AI Agents with New PAM Approval Workflows in KeeperPAM New Keeper Workflow capability within KeeperPAM gives administrators structured oversight and approval-based controls for privileged access across their organisations Keeper Security , the leading zero-trust and zero-knowledge Privileged Access Management (PAM) platform, today announces the availability of Keeper Workflow within KeeperPAM , enabling organisations to enforce approval-based access controls and time-limited checkout policies for privileged resources. Keeper Workflow gives administrators structured control over how privileged access is requested, approved and used, serving as a critical gatekeeper for the modern enterprise identity landscape. As AI agents transition from experimental tools to foundational enterprise infrastructure, every agent introduces a new identity, attack surface and compliance obligation. Keeper Workflow is designed to meet this moment - bringing structured, approval-based controls to how privileged access is requested, approved and used across the enterprise. By embedding these controls directly into the KeeperPAM platform, organisations can move from ad hoc management to a scalable process that achieves zero standing privilege. "AI is no longer just a productivity tool; it is a permanent and foundational layer of the modern enterprise technology stack," said Darren Guccione, CEO and Co-founder of Keeper Security. "With Keeper Workflow, we are enforcing the boundaries of AI and human access. This is zero trust in practice: structured, auditable and built to determine exactly when and if an identity is allowed to act inside the enterprise infrastructure." Structured Controls for the Modern Perimeter Keeper Workflow introduces capabilities designed to bring consistency and accountability to privileged sessions. Enhanced Access Control: Requires administrator or designated approver sign-off before a user can establish a connection or tunnel to a privileged resource. Requests are managed through a centralised notification centre and can include Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) requirements for establishing the connection, after approval is granted. Vault Approval Notifications : Users submit access requests directly from the Keeper Vault or through the Keeper Commander CLI. Designated approvers can receive notifications and approve or deny requests through the Keeper web vault, desktop app or mobile app. 3rd party integrations including Slack, Microsoft Teams, Jira and ServiceNow ensure that security teams can act within their existing workflows without switching platforms. Single-User-Mode and Time-Limited Enforcement: Limits access to a PAM protected resource on a time-limited basis, to one user at a time for a defined period. Once access is revoked, credentials can be automatically rotated, ensuring no standing privileges remain. Together, these capabilities allow organisations to apply precise controls across their most sensitive environments, from regulated databases and critical infrastructure to business-critical applications and privileged administrative accounts. Built for Modern Security Operations Keeper Workflow is designed for IT administrators and security teams in highly-regulated industries - such as financial services, healthcare and government - where manual oversight of privileged accounts is no longer viable. Key use cases include: Requiring formal approval before granting privileged access to compliance-governed systems. Restricting critical servers or infrastructure resources to a single authorised user for a defined window of time. Applying policy-consistent access controls to business-critical systems where concurrent access poses organisational risk. "Keeper Workflow was built to bring structured governance to privileged access without compromising our zero-knowledge architecture," said Craig Lurey, CTO and Co-founder of Keeper Security. "Because it's natively integrated within KeeperPAM, organisations can enforce approval-based access controls and eliminate standing privilege with a solution that is both easy to deploy and simple to operate at scale." Keeper Workflow is available with the release of Vault 17.6 within KeeperPAM. For more information, visit KeeperSecurity.com . ### About Keeper Security Keeper Security is one of the fastest-growing cybersecurity software companies that protects thousands of organisations and millions of people in over 150 countries. Keeper is a pioneer of zero-knowledge and zero-trust security built for any IT environment. Its core offering, KeeperPAM®, is an AI-enabled, cloud-native platform that protects all users, devices and infrastructure from cyber attacks. Recognised for its innovation in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Privileged Access Management (PAM), Keeper secures passwords and passkeys, infrastructure secrets, remote connections and endpoints with role-based enforcement policies, least privilege and just-in-time access. Learn why Keeper is trusted by leading organisations to defend against modern adversaries at KeeperSecurity.com . Learn more: KeeperSecurity.com Follow Keeper: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X YouTube TikTok
LactoScope 500 Delivers Next-Level Dairy Analysis, for Greater Accuracy, Stability, and Operational Control
Wed, May 13, 2026 07:30 EDT
Perten, a PerkinElmer company and global leader in analytical solutions for the food industry, today announced the launch of the LactoScope 500, a next-generation Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT‑IR) dairy analyzer designed to help medium and large processors move beyond traditional testing limitations for greater control of quality, yield, and efficiency. FT‑IR has become the industry standard for dairy analysis, yet many systems still struggle with variability in real‑world production environments, particularly when analyzing high‑fat or viscous products. Measurement instability, inconsistent sample preparation, and calibration drift can force processors to work with wider safety margins than necessary. The LactoScope 500 is engineered to address these challenges, delivering faster, more stable, and more repeatable results across the full range of dairy applications. The LactoScope 500 provides rapid, multi‑component analysis of fat, lactose, protein (including casein specificity), and total solids in seconds. This enables processors to operate closer to target specifications, reduce product giveaway, and make more confident quality and process decisions in real time. "Too often, processors are forced to compensate for measurement uncertainty with wider safety margins," said Paul Morrison, Managing Director at Perten. "The LactoScope 500 is designed to mitigate that tradeoff, giving customers the confidence to run tighter processes and capture more value from every batch." Designed to Solve the Industry's Biggest Accuracy Challenge One of the most persistent challenges in dairy analysis is the impact of fat globule size and sample inconsistency on measurement accuracy. Many conventional systems rely on external or inconsistent sample preparation, introducing variability before analysis even begins. The LactoScope 500 addresses this challenge at the source through a fully integrated dual‑stage high‑pressure homogenizer. By standardizing samples within the instrument, the system minimizes light scattering and spectral noise, delivering more accurate and repeatable results, particularly for demanding applications such as cream, yogurt, and ice cream mixes. This integrated approach eliminates additional preparation steps, improving workflow efficiency while increasing confidence in the data. Engineered for Consistency in Production Environments Beyond accuracy, long‑term stability remains a key concern with traditional FT‑IR systems, where calibration drift and environmental sensitivity can impact performance over time. The LactoScope 500 combines robust mid‑infrared optics, stable calibration models, and a rugged, vibration‑resistant design to deliver consistent results day after day. Integrated remote diagnostics further reduce downtime and simplify maintenance, supporting reliable operation in both laboratory and at‑line production environments. Built for Modern Dairy Operations A compact footprint, integrated computer, and intuitive 15‑inch touchscreen simplify daily operation and reduce reliance on operator expertise. Lower consumables usage helps reduce operating costs while supporting sustainability initiatives by minimizing waste and resource consumption. "Processors are no longer looking for incremental improvements," said Damien Seroux, PerkinElmer's SVP Food Solutions. "They need reliable gains in performance, stability, and control. The LactoScope 500 delivers a more robust and integrated approach to dairy analysis, enabling greater confidence, consistency, and efficiency." By enabling faster, more accurate, and more stable measurements, the LactoScope 500 helps processors reduce variability, improve yield, strengthen quality assurance, and support more sustainable dairy production.
Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense Classes Nationwide to Take Part in Tommy's Sensathon Fundraiser
Wed, May 13, 2026 07:27 EDT
Families attending Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense classes across the UK are getting ready to take part in a nationwide fundraising effort for pregnancy and baby loss charity Tommy's, as Sensathon returns to sessions this term. The fundraising will entail a themed week where babies and toddlers take on simple sensory challenges while raising money for a cause that touches many families in different ways. For the children taking part it may feel like business as usual - but their impact will be enormous. Tommy's works across pregnancy from start to finish, funding research into miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth, while also offering guidance and support to families who need it. Their work sits across hospitals, research centres and policy change - all focused on reducing preventable loss and improving care. In Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense classes, the Sensathon challenges are designed to fit naturally into what families are already doing. There are seven themed sensory activities built around movement, music, colour and play. Babies might be watching lights, shaking instruments or responding to sounds, while toddlers are usually up and moving through more active, imaginative tasks. Nothing feels forced or separate from the class itself, which is part of why it works so well. Baby Sensory, for babies from birth to 13 months, and Toddler Sense, for children up to five years, are structured around early development through sensory learning. Across the UK, thousands of families are expected to take part over the course of the campaign period, with sessions running in local venues as part of normal class schedules. Dr Lin Day, founder of Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense, said, "These classes have always been about real families, real moments, and real connection. Sensathon fits naturally into that because it brings a wider purpose into something parents and children are already sharing together. "Many families will have their own experiences of pregnancy or baby loss, even if they are not spoken about openly. What I value most is that, in a simple class setting, children are learning about kindness and empathy in a very real way, just by being part of something bigger than themselves." Kath Abrahams, Chief Executive of Tommy's, said, "We're enormously grateful to all the children and families taking part in Sensathon, and to the WOW World Group and its team for hosting events around the UK for us once again. "All of the money raised will help us move further and faster towards ending the devastation caused by pregnancy and baby loss, and to making the UK the safest place in the world to give birth. "We hope it sparks lots of fun at the same time as achieving so much for Tommy's, so that we can help even more families." Sensathon sessions will run across participating Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense classes nationwide from 18 th if May. For more information on WOW World Group, visit www.wowworldgroup.com . For more information about Tommy's, visit www.tommys.org .
Why Cold Weather Damage Often Appears Months Later in Warehouse Equipment
Wed, May 13, 2026 03:15 EDT
With summer at the horizon, winter is fading into memory - and so are the challenges brought by cold weather. But Pallet Truck Shop, the UK's largest supplier of pallet and sack trucks, is warning warehouses and logistics operators not to assume the risks of cold weather are over. Damage caused by winter conditions to equipment often only becomes visible months later - frequently during busy spring and summer trading periods when equipment is under renewed pressure. Cold temperatures, damp conditions and condensation can accelerate wear on manual handling equipment throughout winter. Wheels harden and crack more easily, hydraulic systems are placed under greater strain, and seals can deteriorate due to repeated exposure to fluctuating temperatures. Yet because many of these issues develop gradually, businesses may not notice a problem until workloads increase again later in the year. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Truck Shop, said the delayed nature of winter-related wear catches many operators off guard. "A lot of businesses think that once the cold weather passes, the risk disappears with it," he explained. "In reality, winter damage often shows up weeks or even months later. Equipment may continue functioning well enough at first, but the wear caused by cold conditions can suddenly lead to breakdowns during spring and summer peaks - just about the worst possible time." Chesworth added that pallet trucks , stackers and table trucks often endure harsher treatment in winter than operators realise. "One of the most common mistakes businesses make is postponing inspections once winter ends. After surviving the colder months, equipment is often assumed to be in good condition, despite having accumulated unseen wear that compromises long-term reliability," he said. Pallet Truck Shop is encouraging operators to carry out thorough spring maintenance checks on all manual handling equipment, paying close attention to wheel condition, hydraulic performance and any signs of fluid leakage or stiffness in operation. Addressing smaller issues early can prevent costly downtime later in the year. "There's a tendency to focus maintenance efforts before winter, and that's always good, but the post-winter check is just as important," Chesworth continued. "If a pallet truck fails during a busy period, the disruption can be severe." To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
Heroes on Greens Golf Tournament at Arrowhead Country Club Supports Families and Their Children
Tue, May 12, 2026 22:41 EDT
"Every swing helps us drive change for marginalized children and creates brighter futures through our enrichment programs," said Damon L. Alexander, Golf Tournament Chairperson. SAN BERNARDINO, CA -The Heroes on Greens Golf Tournament, organized by the Alexander Family Foundation, a nonprofit that supports marginalized children and their families, is on Friday, May 22, 2026, at the prestigious Arrowhead Country Club. "This is more than a tournament; it is an opportunity to make a lasting difference," said Damon L. Alexander, the Alexander Family Foundation president . "Every swing helps us drive change for marginalized children and creates brighter futures through our enrichment programs." This is the first year of what is planned as an annual event. The Heroes on Greens Golf Tournament invites golf enthusiasts, community leaders, and business professionals to enjoy a championship-quality course while supporting children and their families. The day begins at 7:20 a.m. with an exciting putting contest, followed by a shotgun start at 8:00 a.m. Purpose and Impact Proceeds from the tournament will directly support the Foundation's key initiatives, including: - Assistance for marginalized children and their families. - Youth enrichment and empowerment programs. - The S.T.E.A.M. Education Scholarship Initiative, which fosters future leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Registration and Sponsorship The Foundation is currently looking for golfers and sponsors to participate. Sponsorship levels include: - Foursomes: $400.00 - Individuals: $125.00 - Sponsorship Opportunities: ranging from Tee Sponsors ($100) to the elite S.T.E.A.M. Level ($5,000). Participants will enjoy a relaxing day on pristine fairways, excellent networking opportunities, and the chance to compete for a cause that reaches far beyond the final putt. Event Details What : Alexander Family Foundation Golf Tournament When : Friday, May 22, 2026, at 7:00 a.m. Where : Arrowhead Country Club, 3433 Parkside Drive, San Bernardino, CA 92404 For more information, contact Damon Alexander at (909) 754-1511 or go to https://heroes-on-the-greens.perfectgolfevent.com About the Alexander Family Foundation The Alexander Family Foundation is committed to empowering underserved communities through education, scholarships, and family support services.
St. Petersburg College marks America's 250th anniversary with yearlong civic engagement
Tue, May 12, 2026 18:09 EDT
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in July 2026, St. Petersburg College (SPC) is marking the historic milestone with a yearlong semiquincentennial celebration that blends civic education, community engagement and reflection on the nation's founding ideals. Through its Center for Civic Learning & Community Engagement, SPC is reinforcing a principle it has demonstrated for nearly a century: civic participation is strongest when education and community involvement go hand in hand. A yearlong commitment to civic learning The College amplifies civic learning by honoring the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence through a wide range of academic and co-curricular programming. Faculty across disciplines have integrated discussions of the nation's founding principles into coursework, fostering dialogue on democracy, rights and civic responsibility. As part of its broader engagement, SPC also participated in the Sunshine Debate, a statewide initiative encouraging civil discourse and student dialogue across Florida's colleges. Events and activities Students have engaged in experiences that bring the nation's founding ideals to life, including: Student Government Association trip to Florida's Capitol in Tallahassee, featuring a lecture on representative democracy A League of Women Voters lecture exploring 250 years of voting rights A collegewide "Did You Know?" campaign with facts about the Declaration of Independence Concerts and patriotic programming at The Palladium Theater at SPC "We Declare" public readings and student-led discussions A virtual exhibit on the Framers of the Constitution presented by the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art Flag ceremonies, moderated dialogues and interactive "signing walls" A finale event, America: Together in Harmony , at The Palladium A student's turning point Beyond its 250th-anniversary programming, SPC embeds civic learning throughout academic and student life, a commitment that has earned the College national recognition as a 2024 Most Engaged Campus for College Student Voting and a 2025 Voter-Friendly Campus. Student leader Melanie Williams said civic participation transformed her understanding of democracy in action. After enrolling in SPC's American Government course, she became active in campus initiatives and later served as Student Government Association President from February 2023 through October 2025. As a Democracy Fellow, she helped lead voter education and outreach efforts. "I've helped plan events, work voter information tables and connect students with resources so they understand how and where to vote," said Williams. "These experiences showed me that civic participation isn't passive, it's something you practice." Now pursuing a bachelor's degree in Public Policy and Administration, Williams credits SPC's civic engagement programs - and this historic anniversary year - with reshaping her goals and deepening her commitment to public service. Looking ahead to the next 250 years College leaders say the 250th anniversary is both a celebration and a call to action. "St. Petersburg College is proud to celebrate our country's 250th anniversary," said Tara Newsom, Professor of Social and Behavioral Sciences and Founding Director of the Center for Civic Learning & Community Engagement. "For nearly 100 years, we've honored those founding ideals by connecting education with service. As we reflect on 250 years of the Declaration of Independence, we're preparing students to lead, serve and strengthen our democracy for the next 250." Through its semiquincentennial programming, SPC is ensuring the 250th anniversary is not only a reflection on the nation's founding but a renewed commitment to educating informed, engaged citizens for generations to come.
First-of-Its-Kind College Business Credit Partnership Created by SPC and Junior Achievement
Tue, May 12, 2026 18:09 EDT
St. Petersburg College (SPC) has launched a first-of-its-kind partnership with Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay that will give students in the 3DE by Junior Achievement program a new pathway to college credit and career opportunities. Announced April 7 at SPC's St. Petersburg/Gibbs Campus, the new articulation agreement allows students who complete the 3DE program to earn up to 12 college credit hours toward an Associate in Science in Business Administration at SPC. The agreement is the first in the nation to award college credit for completion of the 3DE instructional model and creates new opportunities not only for students in Tampa Bay, but also for students participating in 3DE programs across the country. Recognizing Real-World Learning Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay serves 12 counties and develops programs focused on financial literacy, entrepreneurship and career readiness. Its 3DE by Junior Achievement model is a career-connected learning experience that integrates business case methodology, entrepreneurship and leadership development into the high school curriculum. Originally launched in Atlanta in 2015, the 3DE model was introduced in Tampa Bay in 2020 and has continued to grow across the region. By fall 2026, it is expected to be implemented in 17 high schools across five west Florida districts. Nationally, the program is now available in 80 schools across 13 states. The model is designed as a four-year high school experience. Students work on real-world business challenges, collaborate with professionals, build problem-solving and public speaking skills, and deepen their understanding of career pathways and workplace expectations. SPC's new agreement formally recognizes the rigor of that experience and the college-level skills students gain throughout the program. "This isn't about adding more classes, it's about recognizing rigor, relevance and real mastery," said Christina Roberts, chief development officer for Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay. "That work led us to today's announcement: an articulation agreement awarding 12 college credits toward an Associate of Science degree in business for approved 3DE graduates." A Partnership Built Through Collaboration The partnership was years in the making and grew out of SPC's deeper involvement with the 3DE program. During the 2023-24 school year, Dean Emmanuel Hernández-Agosto and the SPC College of Business team served as consultancy partners for 3DE seniors at St. Petersburg High School, helping students work through a real-world challenge focused on increasing SPC enrollment through international student recruitment. At the same time, SPC conducted a comprehensive review of the 3DE curriculum across grades 9 through 12, ultimately determining that students who complete the program demonstrate the equivalent of college-level learning in key business areas. "By formalizing this articulation, the College of Business has moved beyond traditional academic boundaries to validate the high-level, real-world consultancy work these students have already mastered," said Hernández-Agosto, Dean of SPC's College of Business. "This agreement creates an accelerated, digital-first highway for the next generation of business leaders to move seamlessly from the classroom to the boardroom." Creating More Equitable Pathways to College For many students, traditional dual enrollment or advanced academic pathways may not always be accessible. Leaders say the 3DE model helps close that gap by engaging students who may not begin high school already connected to a magnet, IB or career-specific track. "While the district offers strong dual-enrollment opportunities and is already a valued partner with SPC, this pathway is not always accessible to all 3DE students," said Lindsay Pena, chief academic officer at Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay. "The strategic partnership with St. Petersburg College reinforces the college's mission to empower its students and community to achieve success and economic mobility through academic excellence and engagement." That alignment is part of what makes the agreement especially meaningful for SPC. As a college committed to access, innovation and workforce development, SPC continues to expand opportunities that help students save time, reduce costs and move more confidently into college and career pathways. Supporting Student Success and Workforce Readiness Leaders across education and industry say the partnership also reflects a broader investment in the future workforce. "The hallmark of 3DE is developing core competencies that apply to any industry," said Kevin Hendrick, superintendent of Pinellas County Schools. "3DE exposes students to universal skills, such as public speaking and problem solving, that are important in both their personal and professional lives." The program's success is also supported by strong collaboration with the business community. More than 57 local business and industry organizations are embedded in the 3DE curriculum through volunteerism, mentorship and real-world case engagement. Among them is Raymond James, an early supporter of 3DE in Tampa Bay and a current funder of operations in Pinellas County and the broader region. "As a large employer within the community, these metrics are important to us as we think about the future workforce," said Andrea Masterson, vice president of community impact at Raymond James. "Maybe [these students will] become part of our workforce programs, maybe they'll become a valued member of our team, or maybe they'll just become a stronger member of the community." A National Model with Local Impact For SPC, the partnership reflects more than a new transfer pathway - it represents a new model for how colleges can recognize high-quality, career-connected learning and create more direct routes to student success. By becoming the first institution in the nation to award college credit through 3DE, SPC is helping set a precedent for how postsecondary institutions can support both academic mobility and workforce readiness. The agreement also strengthens the College's role as a leader in the region, connecting education, business and community partners to create meaningful opportunities for students and support long-term economic growth. As Tampa Bay continues to expand its workforce and educational pipeline, SPC's partnership with Junior Achievement helps ensure students are not only career-aware but college-ready - with a head start already in hand.
Mandelbaum Barrett CEO William Barrett Authors Just-Released Book Authentic
Tue, May 12, 2026 10:37 EDT
Barrett Honors his Father's Wisdom, Reveals an 'Old-School' Approach to Business Success Through Real Relationships and Building a Full Life William S. Barrett , CEO of Mandelbaum Barrett PC, has just published Authentic: An Old-School Approach to Building a Full Life, Successful Business, and Real Relationships , a new book in which he shares insights on leadership, purpose and the entrepreneurial journey. In Authentic , Barrett focuses on what is lacking in business today -- an "old school" approach to business and personal relationships based on the lessons and wisdom he gained from his father. "Our current world is obsessed with hacks and overnight success," Barrett says. "People don't work or meet in person like we used to, and we have lost that personal connection to one another in both our business and in our personal lives, due in part to the digital economy and remote work. But ultimately, hard work, integrity, resilience and genuine relationships are still foundational to business success and genuine accomplishment in life, more generally." Barrett, a corporate attorney and head of one on New Jersey's largest law firms, has devoted his career to guiding hundreds of entrepreneurs and businesses through some of their most important business decisions. A best-selling author of two additional books and host of the podcast Fingerprints on Success, he believes that the lessons his father passed on to him have been pivotal to his own journey from working-class roots to the successful legal career and full life he lives today. Specifically, in Authentic , Barrett distills ten old-school principles that have shaped his career, as well as those of generations of successful entrepreneurs and leaders. They include: Outwork everyone without losing what matters most Turn setbacks into defining opportunities Bet on yourself, even when the risk feels real Build trust by making business personal Lead from abundance instead of scarcity Invest your time where it truly counts Be fully present in a distracted world Play the long game with people and purpose Create success that extends beyond you Leave fingerprints on the lives and success of others "I have always strived to move the needle in myriad ways. Helping other people is what drives me - whether it is about advancing their business goals, their careers or life more generally. Ultimately, success isn't about what you achieve; rather, it is about who you help become successful along the way," notes Barrett. Authentic is available on Amazon. Amazon.com: Authentic: An Old-School Approach to Building a Full Life, a Successful Business, and Real Relationships eBook : Barrett, William S.: Kindle Store . About William S. Barrett A corporate attorney, William S. Barrett provides strategic advice to companies and organizations of all sizes, from formation to dissolution and every stage in between. With more than 20 years of experience representing a wide range of businesses and a unique focus on mergers and acquisitions, Barrett is widely regarded as a creative dealmaker and for the personal attention that he brings to his clients' matters and the energy he brings to every deal. He often serves the role as outside general corporate counsel to his clients and advises them on issues concerning contracts, employment law compliance, developing policies, executive compensation programs and agreements, as well as business succession and related tax planning. Representative clients include commercial organizations and entrepreneurs in the areas of manufacturing, industry, service, banking, finance, insurance, construction, real estate development, as well as healthcare professionals of varying disciplines and organizations. Throughout his career, Barrett has successfully managed the purchase or sale of hundreds of businesses, professional practices and facilities. Barrett has been recognized by Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America. He earned a J.D. from University of Virginia School of Law and a B.A. from Boston College. About Mandelbaum Barrett PC Mandelbaum Barrett PC is a full-service law firm serving both personal and business clients. Recognized as one of the Northeast region's premiere full-service law firms by U.S. News & World Report , with more than 30 practice areas and over 140 attorneys, the firm and its attorneys provide a 360-degree approach to legal services. Mandelbaum Barrett PC is headquartered in Roseland, N.J., with offices in Bayonne, Edison, Eatontown and Elizabeth, New Jersey, as well as New York City, Connecticut, Denver, and Boca Raton, Florida. For more information, visit www.mblawfirm.com.
Preparing for Rapid Retail Expansion: Considerations for Scaling, Growing Retail Spaces
Tue, May 12, 2026 10:20 EDT
ST. LOUIS (May 12, 2026) When retail brands experience rapid success, scaling regionally or nationally is a logical next step. The challenge is ensuring that the qualities that made the brand successful don't get lost when replicated repeatedly, but are still flexible enough to adjust and tailor as needed. For brands and companies of all sizes, there are several key factors to consider when undergoing a rapid retail expansion, according to the retail design experts at Lawrence Group: How does a company stay true to or evolve its brand while keeping costs in check? How do you bring a brand to life across many locations in a myriad of different configurations? How do you navigate each store's unique building codes and specific limitations? How do you efficiently manage multiple projects at a time in a variety of phases? Brands may find these questions and others overwhelming. With extensive experience helping some of the country's most recognizable brands rapidly scale into new retail spaces, such as Edward Jones, H&R Block, and America's Best Contacts and Eyeglasses, Lawrence Group works with clients to more seamlessly expand their retail presence while retaining the level of excellence their clients expect. "We understand the many concerns and challenges our clients have when expanding a retail presence," said Joe Meyer, Principal of Lawrence Group's retail team. "Through our experience with rapid expansion, we've developed an approach and resources to efficiently identify and consider the important variables that will impact a brand's retail and future growth, whether they are looking at expanding to only a few locations or many." When expanding in retail, foresight into the future and the needs of many entities involved is valuable. Lawrence Group, for example, has often started with a client who initially only wants one or two new locations, which ultimately turns into hundreds. Initial retail decisions can significantly impact the future, and prioritizing goals and key needs from the start can help save time and resources. Edward Jones, for example, was initially looking for a new branch office design for its individual financial advisors when Lawrence Group began working with a commercial real estate specialist to support the brand. "We began with a sketch of the intention for the design and added the appropriate details," Meyer said. "The client was very happy with how quickly it was turned around, the considerations that were incorporated, and how clearly everything was laid out, enabling the design to be effectively and efficiently built by multiple contractors. It was an easy process, so he asked if we could do another one." The relationship with Edward Jones and its contractors has continued for decades, and Lawrence Group has designed thousands of branch offices for the company across the country, ensuring brand consistency throughout each location. "We evolved as they evolved," said Meyers. "Lawrence group has been engaged on several occasions to forget everything we know about Edward Jones and to 'reinvent the wheel,' to see what we can do differently and how we can enhance the brand and make it work for customers." Often the biggest challenge in this type of expansion is navigating the bureaucracy of each municipality's building department to meet its needs, as no two are the same, and the codes vary from city to city and region to region. Working through this process continuously across every state gives Lawrence Group's team an advantage and makes the process less painful for the client. To help save time and frustration, it's important to evaluate an architectural firm's experience with smaller, high-volume, and rapid-turnaround projects. Even firms with retail expertise don't necessarily specialize in or have the desire or bandwidth for these types of retail projects, said Meyer. "We can take a branch office and turn it around that same day if time allows and have it under review with the building department instead of spending months and months under the different design phases and owner approvals," Meyers said. "What's appealing to me is that these projects have many considerations and issues to solve. They still have all the challenges of a big project, but compacted into 1,500 square feet instead of 15,000 square feet." Lawrence Group is able to maintain the brand across numerous locations by implementing templated design packages that keep consistency while offering some room for each branch to make personal selections on finishes. Similarly, H&R Block has relied on Lawrence Group to roll out thousands of retail locations over the past 24 years. Driven by the tax season, each location houses anywhere from 7 to 20 tax advisers in a semi-private cubicle environment. Each location works as a brand kit of parts with H&R Block branding graphics and signage driven by the company's signature green logo. A massive challenge for H&R Block versus Edward Jones is the seasonal nature of its business. New or renovated offices must be completed within seven months to accommodate their busy season from January through April during tax season. This requires precision timing from the Lawrence Group team. "We start the design in March and go into construction documents by April, May, June and July. Everything needs to be under construction and we need to have all permits in hand by August and then build through September, October, November, and December to be open on January 1, the first day of tax season," Meyers says. In the Medtail space, Lawrence Group has worked with National Vision's 'America's Best Contacts and Eyeglasses' brand to roll out between 40-80 locations per year for the past 20 years. The process is a well-oiled machine with Lawrence Group receiving construction documents from National Vision and immediately issuing a permit set for them. The team also conducts due diligence with each jurisdiction to determine all the submittal requirements for permitting and submits building permit applications on behalf of the client. Working closely with National Vision and its commercial real estate partner, Lawrence Group navigates the building departments to seamlessly bring the America's Best brand to life in each new location. "As part of our working relationship with clients, we help them to evaluate and streamline their processes based on their retail expansion needs," said Stacey Steinfeld, Lawrence Group Design Professional and Senior Associate. "If we can help make our client's job easier, that in turn helps everyone's job in the process easier." Part of that process has included hosting training sessions with clients and designers to review standard codes that typically don't change between jurisdictions in order to develop best practices. The prospect of retail expansion can be both exciting and challenging for clients. Whether working with commercial real estate professionals, corporations, or brands directly, Lawrence Group's mission is to help them achieve their goals by anticipating needs and issues early and helping to make the process as smooth as possible.
TORONTO HUMANE SOCIETY URGES PET PARENTS TO PRIORITIZE PARASITE PREVENTION THIS SPRING
Tue, May 12, 2026 06:00 EDT
As spring arrives and people begin spending more time outdoors with their pets, Toronto Humane Society is sharing important tips to help keep animals healthy and protected from seasonal parasites. Warmer temperatures bring blooming flowers, longer walks, and more time in parks - but they also mark the return of fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other parasites that can pose serious health risks for pets. The good news is that prevention is highly effective. With the right veterinary guidance and routine care, pet parents can significantly reduce the risk of parasites and help ensure their pets enjoy a safe and healthy spring season. "Spring is a wonderful time to get outside with your pets, but it's also when we start to see an increase in parasites," said Lauralee Dorst, RVT, Director, Community Animal Welfare at Toronto Humane Society . "The best thing pet parents can do is focus on prevention. Regular wellness appointments allow veterinary teams to recommend the right parasite prevention plan for each individual pet." Parasites can cause a variety of health concerns. Fleas may lead to allergic skin reactions, intense itching, and tapeworm infections. Ticks can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and anaplasmosis. Heartworms, spread by mosquitoes, can damage a pet's heart and lungs and may become life-threatening if left untreated. Intestinal parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms, can also affect pets and may cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. In some cases, pets may show few early signs of infection, making preventive care and routine veterinary checkups especially important. Along with veterinary care, pet parents can take simple steps at home to reduce parasite risks, including regularly grooming their pets, checking for ticks after outdoor activities, washing bedding frequently, and keeping living spaces clean. Toronto Humane Society offers wellness appointments through its Public Veterinary Services to help pet parents stay ahead of seasonal health concerns. These appointments include physical exams, parasite screening when needed, and guidance on appropriate flea, tick, heartworm, and deworming prevention based on a pet's lifestyle and risk factors. Learn more about parasite prevention, and book appointments at www.TorontoHumaneSociety.com This spring, as many as 1 in 5 pets are going without the essential veterinary care they need. Donations can help make a difference . Gifts made by May 31 to Toronto Humane Society will be matched up to $18,000 thanks to a generous matching gift from the Estate of Joyce Mary Setter.
The Morning Routine Shift: Why More People Are Rethinking Their First Drink of the Day
Tue, May 12, 2026 05:30 EDT
If asked what they drink in the morning to wake up, many will give the same predictable answer - coffee. But is it a matter of taste, or habit? Strong and immediate, coffee has traditionally set the tone for the day ahead - but for many, the first drink of the morning has long been a matter of habit rather than choice or, in fact, true love of the beverage itself. For each coffee lover drinking it straight as brewed, there are many others who add ingredients - such as milk, sugar or syrups - specifically to mask the taste. Personal taste aside, some are beginning to question whether a quick caffeine hit is always the best place to start. While coffee remains a staple, there is a growing interest in gentler alternatives that support energy in a steadier, more sustained way. Nutrient-rich drinks and herbal blends are becoming part of morning routines, offering a way to ease into the day rather than rush straight into it. The focus is on supporting the body, rather than overriding it. Irish Sea Moss has found its place within this evolving approach. Harvested from the cold waters of the Atlantic, it contains a broad range of naturally occurring nutrients, including B vitamins, magnesium and iodine, all of which contribute to normal energy-yielding metabolism. Unlike stimulants that create a temporary spike, these nutrients work more gradually, supporting how the body produces and uses energy over time. Its versatility makes it particularly suited to mornings. Sea moss gel can be stirred into smoothies or simply taken on its own, while herbal teas infused with sea moss offer a warm alternative to coffee. Harry Morgan, founder of The Moss Way, sees this as part of a wider change in mindset. "People are starting to pay closer attention to how they feel, not just in the moment but across the whole day," he said. "That first drink can either push the body or support it. More and more, we are seeing people choose the second option. "As morning routines change, the idea of a 'proper cuppa' is also changing. It is no longer just habit, but a thoughtful decision to set up the day up in a way that feels sustainable, balanced and, above all, personal." For more information, visit www.themossway.co.uk .
The Return of Repairability: Why Simple Warehouse Equipment Is Enjoying a Resurgence
Tue, May 12, 2026 05:12 EDT
With warehouses facing increasing operational pressure, many businesses are rethinking what they need from their materials handling equipment. While advanced automation and connected systems continue to dominate industry conversation, there is growing appreciation for something far simpler: material handling equipment that can be repaired quickly, understood easily and kept working without specialist intervention. Warehouses increasingly depend on constant movement, and even relatively small interruptions can create knock-on delays across dispatch and fulfilment. According to Midland Pallet Trucks, more operators are placing value on practical reliability rather than complexity alone. This is contributing to renewed interest in straightforward mechanical equipment - such as pallet trucks , stacker trucks and lift tables - that can be maintained efficiently on-site. Rather than relying on specialist diagnostics or lengthy repair processes, many warehouse teams are counting on what has always been the true workhorse of UK warehouses - equipment that can be inspected, serviced and returned to operation quickly. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said the industry should cut through the noise surrounding automation and AI, and reassess the balance between sophistication and resilience. "There's definitely a growing appreciation for equipment that's practical and dependable," he explained. "A lot of operators are realising that when something goes wrong, they need to get moving again quickly. If a repair requires specialist software, long lead times or external support just to diagnose the issue, that can become a problem." The trend is particularly noticeable among SMEs and regional warehouse operators, where engineering support may be more limited and operational flexibility is essential. In these environments, equipment that can withstand heavy daily use while remaining straightforward to maintain a safer long-term investment. However, that simplicity should not be confused with outdated design. "Making sure technology supports resilience rather than complicating it is not rejecting innovation. Reliable mechanical equipment still evolves," Chesworth added. "Modern material handling equipment can offer smooth operation, strong performance and ergonomic benefits while still being easy to maintain. In an industry often focused on what's newest, the ability to keep things moving consistently is becoming just as important as adding new layers of technology." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
SGS hosts webinar showcasing next‑generation integrated strategies for skin sensitization
Tue, May 12, 2026 04:28 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, will host a webinar, 'Next-Generation Integrated Strategies for Skin Sensitization in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products', on May 28, 2026. As regulatory restrictions on animal testing continue to expand, alongside increasing expectations for safety and transparency, cosmetics and personal care product manufacturers are under growing pressure to adopt alternative approaches to toxicological risk assessment. Skin sensitization remains a critical endpoint in ensuring consumer safety and regulatory acceptance across global markets. In this webinar, expert presenter Dr. Ashwani Sharma will provide an overview of the biological mechanisms underlying skin sensitization and explain how data from multiple non-animal sources can be integrated into robust, scientifically sound safety evaluations. He will look at next-generation integrated approaches, highlighting how in chemico, in vitro and in silico methods can be combined within integrated approaches to testing and assessment (IATA). The session will examine key alternative testing methodologies and weight-of-evidence strategies, demonstrating how these approaches can support hazard identification and risk assessment for both cosmetic ingredients and finished products. Regulatory perspectives and case examples are also discussed, illustrating how integrated strategies align with current expectations in the US, EU and Asian markets. By adopting next-generation integrated skin sensitization strategies, companies can improve decision-making, streamline product development and enhance regulatory readiness while supporting ethical, non-animal testing frameworks. SGS's expertise in cosmetic safety assessment helps businesses navigate evolving regulatory landscapes while maintaining high standards of consumer protection and product quality. Toxicologists, cosmetics and personal care manufacturers, quality control managers and regulatory specialists are invited to register now and gain practical insights into the next generation of skin sensitization safety assessment for global markets. For further information, please contact: Jennifer Buckley Senior Global Marketing Manager SGS, Health & Nutrition Tel: +1 9738669043 Media inquiries
Acuity Trading Invests in MarketReader to Build a More Complete AI Market Intelligence Offering
Tue, May 12, 2026 02:00 EDT
Growth investment strengthens Acuity's ability to combine market, event and trade intelligence with real-time market move attribution. Acuity Trading, a global provider of AI-driven market, event and trade intelligence solutions for brokers, platforms and financial institutions, today announced a growth investment in MarketReader, an AI-powered financial intelligence platform focused on explaining why markets move in real time. The investment marks a significant step in Acuity's long-term strategy to build a broader, more complete intelligence offering for financial institutions and their end users. It brings together Acuity's established market intelligence infrastructure, alternative data capabilities and global distribution with MarketReader's specialist market move attribution technology. MarketReader is designed to answer one of the most important questions facing professional market participants: why did this move? Its technology identifies abnormal price movements and connects those moves with relevant market, macro, news, sentiment and cross-asset data to provide timely, structured explanations of what may be driving market activity. For Acuity, the investment is a signal of confidence in MarketReader's technology, team and market opportunity. It supports the continued expansion of Acuity's intelligence ecosystem by adding a specialist explanation layer that helps users move beyond prices, headlines and data towards clearer market context. Together, Acuity and MarketReader are building a stronger workflow for professional market participants: helping users identify what is moving, understand why it is moving, validate the wider context and monitor what may matter next. MarketReader's technology uses a structured, rules-based framework supported by controlled AI workflows. Its approach is designed to provide consistent, explainable outputs for professional and institutional environments where transparency, supervision and reliability are critical. Andrew Lane, Co-Founder of Acuity Trading, said: "This investment reflects our confidence in MarketReader and in the future of market move attribution as an important part of financial intelligence. Acuity has always focused on helping clients make sense of markets through AI, data and research. MarketReader adds a powerful explanation layer to that ecosystem, helping users understand not just what has moved, but why it may have moved." The investment will support closer product, commercial and operational alignment between the two businesses, while enabling Acuity to bring MarketReader's capabilities into its wider suite of intelligence solutions for brokers, trading platforms, wealth firms and financial institutions. For Acuity's existing clients, the move creates an opportunity to access richer market context inside the workflows they already use. For institutional and advisory users, it supports faster, more defensible explanations of market activity. For compliance-sensitive environments, it provides a clearer, more structured approach to market explainability and human oversight. Jens Nordvig, Co-Founder of MarketReader and former Goldman Sachs currency strategist, said: "Acuity has built a strong global platform for delivering AI-driven market intelligence at scale. This investment gives MarketReader the opportunity to extend the reach of our real-time attribution technology and bring clearer market explanations to a wider professional audience. Together, we can help financial institutions provide a more complete understanding of what is driving markets." The move reflects a broader shift in financial markets towards explainable, context-rich intelligence. As market participants face rising volumes of data, headlines and price movement, the ability to understand the drivers behind market activity is becoming increasingly important. MarketReader's core audience includes institutional investment teams, RIAs, hedge funds, asset managers, family offices, research teams, wealth firms and enterprise platforms that need fast, credible explanations for market moves. Acuity brings established delivery capability across broker, platform and institutional workflows, supporting wider access to MarketReader's technology among professional users globally. The investment is not intended to replace human judgement or investment decision-making. Instead, it is designed to support professional users with clearer market context, structured explanations and more efficient access to relevant market intelligence. Disclaimer / risk warning MarketReader and Acuity Trading provide market intelligence, research tools and decision-support technology for informational and professional use only. Nothing in this announcement constitutes investment advice, financial advice, a personal recommendation, a financial promotion, or an offer or solicitation to buy, sell or hold any financial instrument. Financial markets involve risk. The value of investments can go down as well as up, and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. CFDs, spread betting, foreign exchange, margin trading, cryptoassets and other leveraged products are complex and high risk. Leverage can magnify losses as well as gains, and users should ensure they understand the risks involved before using these products. AI-supported outputs should not be relied upon in isolation and do not guarantee any outcome. They are intended to support human analysis, professional judgement and appropriate supervision, not to replace independent research, regulated advice or compliance review. About MarketReader MarketReader is an AI-powered financial intelligence platform focused on explaining why markets move in real time. By combining structured data, expert sources and controlled AI workflows, MarketReader delivers event-driven market move attribution for professional investors, financial institutions and enterprise platforms. MarketReader is positioned as a market explanation and attribution layer. It is not an investment signal provider, not a personal recommendation tool and not an autonomous trading decision system. About Acuity Acuity Trading, an Acuity Analytics company, brings together the strengths of PIA First and Signal Centre to deliver a broad suite of market intelligence, analytics and trader engagement tools for brokers, platforms and institutional partners worldwide. Since pioneering visual market insight and sentiment tools in 2013, Acuity Trading has continued to expand its capabilities through advanced analytics, alternative data, AI-driven insight and trading technology. By combining research expertise with scalable technology, Acuity supports brokers and trading platforms in delivering structured market context within their existing environments. Acuity's team of academics, scientists, market analysts and technology specialists is dedicated to developing high-impact data products designed to support traders. Solutions are available through flexible delivery options including APIs, MT4/MT5, plug-and-play widgets and third-party automation services. For further information or to request a demo, please visit www.acuitytrading.com or contact: Follow Acuity Trading on social: Twitter: @acuitytrading LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/acuity-trading Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/acuitytradingltd/
Acuity Trading and WNSTN Partner to Co-Integrate Trading Intelligence and Personalised AI Engagement
Tue, May 12, 2026 01:00 EDT
Acuity Trading and WNSTN Partner to Co-Integrate Trading Intelligence and Personalised AI Engagement Acuity Trading, the market intelligence company combining AI and analyst expertise for brokers and trading platforms, has partnered with WNSTN, a global leader offering AI engagement tools for financial institutions, to co-integrate their technologies and deliver a more connected trading experience. The partnership will combine Acuity's market, event and trade intelligence with WNSTN's conversational AI, data visualisation, real-time interaction capabilities and compliance monitoring tools. Together, the two companies aim to help brokers and financial platforms deliver timely market context, relevant content and more bespoke user journeys within their existing environments. Acuity's platform brings together Trade Intelligence, Market Intelligence and Event Intelligence in a white-labelled, multilingual environment built for broker growth, with delivery across MT4, MT5, cTrader, widgets and APIs. WNSTN provides a turnkey AI solution for investment platforms, including a multi-agent financial AI system, interactive chat, real-time analytics, bespoke branding and a proprietary compliance officer module trained on financial regulations. Under the partnership, brokers and platforms will be able to deliver Acuity's intelligence through WNSTN's engagement layer, while benefiting from WNSTN's personalisation and interaction capabilities alongside Acuity-powered content. The shared aim is to create a clearer, more joined-up user experience without adding unnecessary complexity for platform teams. Roy Michaeli, Co-Founder and CEO of WNSTN: "We believe AI in financial services must do more than generate answers. It needs to deliver relevant insights in a way that is secure, responsible and practical for regulated firms. By working with Acuity Trading, we are combining trusted market intelligence with a highly personalised engagement framework, giving brokers and platforms a stronger way to give users with timely, contextual and actionable information." Andrew Lane, CEO of Acuity Trading: "Brokers and platforms are looking for ways to give traders more clarity at the point decisions are made. This partnership combines Acuity's market intelligence with WNSTN's personalised engagement layer, helping firms deliver a more connected in-platform experience that is informative, scalable and designed with compliance in mind." The partnership reflects a shared focus on combining high-quality market intelligence with intuitive, compliant delivery. Acuity helps brokers keep traders confident, active and engaged by delivering clear trading intelligence directly inside their platforms, while WNSTN enables financial institutions to deploy AI experiences with speed, security and regulatory oversight built in. Together, the companies are creating a more practical and effective way for brokers and financial platforms to deliver trading-related content, market context and personalised user engagement. About WNSTN WNSTN is a global provider of compliant AI solutions for financial institutions, brokerages, and capital markets firms. Built with layered compliance controls, multi-agent financial intelligence, and enterprise-grade security, WNSTN enables institutions to deploy real-time AI safely across client engagement, service automation, and internal analytics workflows. WNSTN is headquartered in the U.S. with teams across North America, Europe, and the Middle East. About Acuity Acuity Trading revolutionised the online trading experience for millions of investors with the introduction of visual news and sentiment tools in 2013. Today, Acuity continues to lead the fintech market with advanced analytic tools, alternative data and highly engaging trading tools using the latest in AI research and technology. Acuity's team of academics, scientists, news and market professionals are dedicated to delivering highly effective data products that bring value to investors of all levels and experience. Flexible delivery options include APIs, MT4/5, plug and play widgets and third party automation services. Contact Us https://acuitytrading.com/
COOL-BINZ Recognized on Entrepreneur's 2026 Top New & Emerging Franchises List
Mon, May 11, 2026 14:58 EDT
Climate-controlled portable storage concept gains national recognition as demand rises for flexible, service-based business models and innovative storage solutions As entrepreneurs increasingly seek business models built around flexibility, recurring demand and practical innovation, emerging service concepts are drawing heightened attention across the franchising industry. One category gaining momentum is climate-controlled portable storage, and COOL-BINZ is emerging as an early innovator within the space. COOL-BINZ has been recognized on Entrepreneur Magazine's 2026 Top New & Emerging Franchises list, an annual ranking that highlights franchise brands demonstrating strong potential, industry relevance and growing interest among prospective business owners. For COOL-BINZ, the recognition underscores the brand's growing presence and innovative approach to portable storage solutions. Unlike traditional storage offerings, COOL-BINZ provides portable, climate-controlled storage units designed to serve a wide range of residential and commercial needs. The units plug into a standard 110v outlet and support a variety of applications, including temperature-sensitive storage, mobile office space, refrigeration and freezer use cases. As homeowners and businesses continue prioritizing convenience, mobility and flexible infrastructure, demand for adaptable service solutions has expanded across multiple industries. COOL-BINZ was developed to meet these evolving needs while also creating a scalable opportunity for entrepreneurs entering the service-based franchise sector. "Entrepreneurs today are looking closely at businesses that solve practical, everyday challenges while offering long-term adaptability," said Matt O'Rourke, EVP of Franchise Development at BELFOR Franchise Group. "COOL-BINZ stands out because it brings innovation to a traditional industry, creating solutions that appeal to both residential and commercial customers while opening the door to multiple revenue opportunities for franchise owners." Since joining the BELFOR Franchise Group portfolio, COOL-BINZ has continued expanding into new markets while introducing customers to a different type of storage experience, one centered around flexibility, accessibility and climate-controlled protection. With the support of BELFOR Franchise Group, COOL-BINZ franchise owners benefit from the operational support, training and infrastructure of a leading franchisor with proven experience helping entrepreneurs build resilient local businesses. The franchisor's brand portfolio spans a wide range of essential residential and commercial service industries, providing franchisees with access to established systems, ongoing coaching and collaborative brand support. For more information about COOL-BINZ, visit coolbinzfranchise.com . For more information about BELFOR Franchise Group, visit belforfranchisegroup.com . About BELFOR Franchise Group BELFOR Franchise Group is a leading global residential and commercial services franchisor. For decades, BELFOR Franchise Group has empowered entrepreneurs by offering strong business models, industry-leading training and continuous business coaching to help local owners succeed. BELFOR Franchise Group is the parent organization to a portfolio of service-based franchise opportunities in the home services, commercial cleaning and restoration industries. The franchise brands include 1-800-BOARDUP , 1-800 WATER DAMAGE , Blue Kangaroo Packoutz , Chem-Dry Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning , Clear Pest Pros , COOL-BINZ , DUCTZ , Helpful Heroes , HOODZ , JUNKCO+ , N-Hance Wood Refinishing , The Patch Boys , redbox+ Dumpsters , WINMAR and Z PLUMBERZ . For more information, visit belforfranchisegroup.com .
